Members of the Bellefontaine City Council advanced several key projects during their Tuesday, Jan. 9, regular meeting and also welcomed new faces to municipal leadership.
Council approved on first reading only the city’s 2024 street resurfacing project, authoring administration seek proposals, advertise for bids and enter into a contract with selected contractors for the citywide initiative, with a total project cost of $904,000.
The city’s share, amounting to $103,000, will contribute to the infrastructure upgrade. The Ohio Public Works Commission will also play a role in financing the resurfacing project.
Council also greenlighted a project to improve the walking path at Blue Jacket Park. The park’s walking path is set to be resurfaced and widened upon completion.
A majority of the project’s $170,000 budget, approximately $120,000, will be covered by state capital funding. The remaining funds for this park enhancement will be allocated from the parks department’s budget.
Expanding the scope of improvements, council members also approved, on first and final reading, the dedication plat for the Maris Park Subdivision. This subdivision encompasses 5.833 acres and includes 15 lots in Jefferson Township, marking a development milestone for the community.
Additionally, the council addressed public safety concerns by authorizing the posting and hiring of a Deputy Chief Probation Officer for the Bellefontaine Municipal Court.
Further enhancing law enforcement capabilities, a resolution was passed authorizing the Bellefontaine Police Department to enter into agreements with The Logan County Sheriff’s Office and Logan County Prosecutor’s Office regarding the Logan County Unified Drug Task Force Mutual Aid. This agreement includes provisions for the distribution of forfeited property and mandatory fines, strengthening collaborative efforts in combating drug-related issues.
Tuesday’s meeting marked the first for new Mayor Dave Crissman.
Incoming council members Nick Davis and Mackenzie Fitzpatrick were also welcomed.
Bonnie Campbell was also re-appointed as clerk of council for a two-year term.
The next regular meeting is Jan. 23.