Strasburg Council discusses paving projects

Strasburg Village Council discussed a wide range of infrastructure, safety and community projects during its May 5 meeting.

Police Chief Randy Haugh reported 88 calls for service during the previous two weeks. Haugh said the department received 10 applications for its vacant position and is reviewing two candidates.

Haugh also said officers continue addressing safety concerns involving electric bikes and scooters, including helmet use. He noted a low turnout for the recent bike rodeo and said police are monitoring violations at village compost and trash container sites. Signs and cameras have been installed, and violators are being shared on the department’s Facebook page.

Fire Chief Jason Ely reported the department responded to 34 calls during the previous two weeks and 260 calls year-to-date. Ely announced Tim Hawkins resigned effective April 22.

Council approved a three-year Stryker equipment contract totaling $28,274.

Ely also reported the department’s new medical control doctor is Dr. Max Hensel at Union Hospital. Monthly training is now provided by Cleveland Clinic.

Council suspended the required three readings and approved Resolution 2026-16, an emergency resolution authorizing the hiring of a firefighter.

Village Administrator Mike Rosenberry updated council on the wastewater treatment plant expansion project, noting 30% design drawings are complete and all work will remain within the existing fence line.

Rosenberry said the village plans to apply for an EGA grant once $6 million in funding is secured. He also reported electrical and curb work related to the Sibley Mart sign relocation is expected to begin May 19, weather permitting.

Additional projects discussed included storm runoff work, school retention pond analysis and proposed traffic-calming tables for Dale Avenue and Ninth Street SW.

Council approved $8,500 for crack sealing as part of the village paving program. Rosenberry also said Newton Asphalt submitted a bid of $82,277 for annual paving work through Tuscarawas County, while approximately $90,000 in repairs are planned for Wooster Avenue.

Council approved purchasing additional brackets for military and sports banners on Bodmer Avenue, with Strasburg-Franklin Local Schools agreeing to cover half the cost.

Council also approved moving forward with updates to park stadium restrooms if the school district agrees to pay half the project cost.

Rosenberry reported the village opted into the Tuscarawas County Mosquito Control Program and received an estimate of $1,600 to install a camera at the Village Hall front door and drop box.

Resolution 2026-17, approving village use of the Tuscarawas County Community Improvement Corporation, received its first reading.

Councilwoman Kathy Burrier reminded council sewer rates will be reviewed annually to ensure funding for the wastewater treatment plant expansion project through the Ohio Water Development Authority.

Park Committee Chairman Wes Hostetler reported new trash cans were installed at the park. Discussion also was held about removing “Franklin” from the park’s name because Franklin Township does not contribute funding. Barb Limbacher suggested the name Strasburg Community Park.

Mayor Bruce Metzger proposed holding a farmers market in the village green space on the first and third Saturdays during the summer. Proposed vendors would include crafts, jewelry, baked goods and produce, with a suggested participation fee of $20.

Council also approved participation in the Tuscarawas County EDC Grants to Go Partnership at a cost of $2,500.

Council adjourned at 7:14 p.m.