Several measures addressing downtown issues are working through Bellefontaine City Council committees with the hope of protecting streetscapes and improving access to available spaces.
Three committees — Sidewalks, Curbs and Parks; Street; and Rules — met Monday to discuss, in order, protecting the sidewalk area along Main Street in front of the Logan County Courthouse; how to improve downtown parking and fees; and rules for one-day food trucks.
Mick Lile chairs the Sidewalks, Curbs and Parks Committee and, together with council members Diane Hager and Deb Baker, the committee decided to see if legislation can be drawn up to require council approval to alter the streetscape and sidewalks in front of the courthouse.
Recently, Mayor Ben Stahler’s administration was moving ahead with plans to rework the area and add seven angled parking spaces.
It was tabled after public outcry against the plan, which because of its costs would not have required the council’s approval.
His committee was followed by the Streets Committee with Chairman Allen Hadley asking downtown business owners and chief developer Jason Duff for ideas on how to improve parking.
All agreed the city needs to adopt the universal blue “P” sign and make it clear the lots are open to the public.
Read the full story in Tuesday’s Examiner.