Port Washington Council welcomes new members

Two newly elected council members were sworn in at the Jan. 10 meeting of Port Washington Village Council. Village Solicitor Mark Perlaky administered the oath of office to Jeff McDonald and Jeff Gardner.

Council members Brandie Bourne and Jeff Little, both re-elected in November, also were sworn in.

Council member Brandie Bourne who was re-elected in November also was sworn in.

Council voted unanimously to appoint Joe Bourne Council President for 2026.

Mayor’s report

Mayor Tom Gardner provided a review of 2025 accomplishments, which included:

—Completing the Ohio Department of Transportation Safe Sidewalks to School project with grant funds.

—Revising legislation governing the presence of junk cars, boats and storage shed on residential property.

—Revising legislation on the keeping of certain farm animals within village limits.

—Building wheel chair sidewalks leading from the two park pavilions to the restrooms.

—Honoring the late Rick Swiger and his 20 years of service as street commissioner by naming an alley “Rick Swiger Lane.”

Looking ahead to the new year, the mayor reviewed proposed projects, which include:

—Continuing to improve the properties at 100, 102, and 104 E. Main Street, which were purchased by the village in 2025.

—Securing grant funding to replace eight lamp poles and lights on the village square.

—Completing the new Fire Well project at Belden Brick Park in the spring.

Reports to council

Perlaky said there is still one resident who has not complied with the village income tax ordinance and that the case is moving through the court process.

In addition, Perlaky mentioned the deadline for evicting tenants on a village-owned property on East Main Street is Feb. 12. He also told council about an issue with fencing affecting an adjacent neighbor. Council discussed removing the fence that was installed by the tenant pending a review by Perlaky of the land contract and property survey.

Patrolman Kyle Lawver provided a 2025 year-end report for the police department which included 1,756 hours worked, 125 calls, 31 traffic citations, seven criminal arrests and 73 traffic stops. Lawver also noted that village police officers have exceeded the required number of continuing education hours.

Street Supervisor Tim Bryant said a faulty ignitor on the street department furnace was repaired under warranty for no charge.

Council reviewed the 2025 Union-Salem Cemetery year-end report showing expenses of $29,222 against receipts of $26,193. A balance of $61,401 will be carried over to year 2026.

Committee assignments for 2026 were presented to council, and members voted to approve them as presented.

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