The West Liberty Village Council’s first meeting in April recognized a long-term town supporter, approved the hiring of two new part-time police offers, and got a sneak peak of a tourism-focused town mural.
• Mayor Jill McKelvey took time to honor Don Alig, chairperson of the planning commission for a decade. Alig, who passed away on January 27, was represented by his wife, daughter and sister-in-law. They received a plaque distinguishing Alig’s service, a duplicate of which will hang on the town hall honor wall.
• Hoping to increase police presence in West Liberty as soon as possible, Chief Shane Oelker asked the council to immediately approve the hiring of two part-time officers. The council agreed, and officers John Puckett and Brian Snyder will be sworn in by the mayor this week.
• Though only council has seen the new mural so far, the rest of West Liberty will have their opportunity in the next few weeks. Council members were also invited to order T-shirts featuring this mural design.
• To continue with their commitment as a Tree City USA community, West Liberty’s Village Park Board will host this year’s Arbor Day tree-planting ceremony at Lions Park on April 29 at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
• A resident near Sherman Ricketts Park sent village officials a letter regarding a walnut tree at the park. Councilwoman Joanna Hostetler agreed to find someone to remove the tree, hopefully at a reduced cost that includes removing the wood as well.
• Concern over the intersection at Baird and Tupper streets was again the topic of discussion. Bill Detrick, street superintendent, recommending the removal of one parking spot on the north side of Baird Street to improve visibility. The council decided to table the discussion, and no action was taken Monday night.
• The calendar fundraiser to fix the West Columbus Street Bridge is proving to be a success with all of the gold sponsorships sold, along with four of the six silver sponsorships. Councilwoman Jayne Griffith, who updated the members on the efforts, said an account has been set up at Peoples Savings and Loan for individuals and companies wishing to make a donation. Calendars will be available for purchase in September.
• West Liberty Business Association’s annual dinner will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, April 19.
The next West Liberty council meeting will begin at 7 p.m. on Monday, April 25.