Port Washington council to add signs to ease traffic confusion at village square

At the Oct. 7 meeting of Port Washington Village Council, Councilman Nate Penrod asked if there were a plan in place or taking shape to address the ongoing matter of confusion among drivers at the village square when the traffic light is not working.

Discussion of the matter took place, followed by a statement that traffic signs have been purchases and will be installed as soon as time permits to direct drivers in a power outage or, if for any other reason, the traffic lights are not working.

Also discussed was where to house the signs, with a recommendation of moving them to the village hall/fire station. The signs are extremely heavy and council members thought the move would offer quicker access and placement when needed.

In other street department matters, Street Supervisor Tim Bryant expressed gratitude to the city of New Philadelphia and the village of Newcomerstown for allowing use of their street paining stencils.

Reports to council

Village Solicitor Mark Perlaky said the deed for the Bates property on Main Street has been officially transferred to the village. Delinquent property taxes in the amount of approximately $13,000 are owed to the village.

Council voted to proceed with serving the current tenant a breach of contract notice, as the tenant had agreed to pay all back taxes owed but neglected to do so.

Income Tax Administrator Donna Meek reported a total of $5,512 in overdue, uncollected taxes as of the meeting date. Meek said one resident is in arrears for the years of 2023 and 2024 and three residents are delinquent for 2024 taxes.

Meek also reported receiving $24,687 in tax collected in the third quarter, with year to date receipts totaling $129,494.

Council President Joe Bourne presented the September fired department report stating there were two fire department assists, one each to Tri-County and Newcomerstown along with one auto accident.

Mayor Tom Green reported that the Belden Park will be closed as soon as the fall baseball leagues wrap up the season.

Administrative Assistant DJ Meek said he receive on zoning permit request for a shed by property owner Mike Miller.

No dumping permitted at Union Cemetery

Bourne repeated an announcement made at the Sept. 2 council meeting that dumping of any type of trash is not to be left at the cemetery. He added that brush may be left there but only due to inclement weather.

Announcements

Green issued a reminder that Trick or Treat will be held Oct. 31 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and said the fire department will be serving doughnut holes, candy and apple cider during those hours.

Council person Brandie Bourne thanked council for the memorial gift plaque they sent her upon the recent passing of her mother.

Voting

Council approved the following:

—the purchase of a dolly for the street department in order for heavy traffic signs to be moved

—the purchase of a new spring for the playground’s motorcycle rider equipment

—the purchase of dirt and grass seed for the sidewalk area at the park

—a 2026 contract to use the Public Defender’s office if needed for indigent people in need defense attorneys at a cost of $1,200.

Port Washington Council meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Village Hall. All meetings are open to the public.