By Emily Chesnic
Macedonia remains confident in the regionalized police and fire dispatch services offered in the community, with Council unanimously agreeing to continue a partnership with Sagamore Hills Township.
At the Oct. 22 regular meeting, Council authorized Mayor Nick Molnar to enter in a new, five-year agreement – reflecting a 3 percent annual increase in cost – with Sagamore for dispatch.
“The last contract was a success, and we want to continue on that service and collaboration with our neighbors,” he said.
While examining the call volume and other factors, a 3 percent increase was determined to be “fair” for both parties, said Molnar. The cost at the start of the contract with Sagamore, which begins next year, will be $87,416 for 2021, said city officials.
Macedonia Police Chief Jon Golden and Fire Chief Brian Ripley said they are thankful Macedonia is continuing the collaboration.
“This is a very important contract for police and fire,” said Golden.
Also concerning safety services, Council approved legislation providing for the issuance and sale of bonds in the amount of $575,000 to pay costs to acquire, install, equip and improve the city’s communication system utilized by the police and fire departments, upgrading to the 800 Mhz frequency. Director of Finance John Veres said the city is borrowing $575,000 for the $641,000 communication system purchase, to be paid back during a five-year period. The city will be using money in the safety service fund, provided through an existing levy, to afford the system, he said.
Also, regarding the city’s finances, Council adopted an ordinance providing for the issuance and sale of bonds in the amount of $1.2 million to refinance all or a portion of the city’s fire truck acquisition bonds. Veres explained this measure would save Macedonia at least $50,000.
At the meeting, additionally, Council confirmed the appointment of Melissa Hunter to Macedonia’s Civil Service Commission. Hunter replaces Mike Menhart, who recently retired from the Civil Service Commission.
Molnar thanked Hunter for volunteering for the position, stating she would be a “great addition” to the commission.
Additionally, a proclamation was read by Molnar at the start of the meeting, recognizing Oct. 18-24 as Stormwater Awareness Week in the city, to raise stormwater awareness.
Budget Preparations
Just prior to the regular meeting, Council began the budget process, keeping in mind the goal – having the financial plan in place at the start of 2021. President of Council Janet Tulley has said the first reading for the budget would take place at the Nov. 12 meeting and the document likely would be adopted Dec. 10. Tully said City Council is not meeting the second Thursdays in November and December, in observation of Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Eve.
Leaf Collection
“We have four machines ready to go,” Hnottavange said. “Collections will go on as long as the weather allows.”
Road Program Update
Council received an update on this year’s road program in Macedonia, with seven roads completely repaved, 11 roads crack sealed, 31 catch basins repaired, edge lines painted on all side street, and patching done on several roads.
Macedonia Family Recreation Center Equipment
Parks and Recreation Director Jason Chadock said new equipment soon would be coming to the Macedonia Family Recreation Center. He said it is time to replace some of the center’s cardio equipment. After searching for modernized equipment pieces, there now are demo units available to try out in the center, he said. Patrons are asked to test the demos and provide feedback.
Halloween in Macedonia
Despite a consistent rise in COVID-19 cases in the state, trick-or-treating will take place in the city, on Halloween night, Oct. 31, from 6-8 p.m., unless the Summit County Board of Health advises otherwise, said Molnar. Those who do not wish to participate this year should keep their lights off, he said. The mayor urges those who participate to follow the social distancing requirements. Golden and Ripley also ask that motorists be extra vigilant Halloween night to ensure children stay safe. Parents are advised to dress young ones in reflective material and/or provide them with flashlights.
Chadock said the winner of the city’s “haunted yard” photo contest for Halloween, with the winner to receive a free, one-year membership to the Macedonia Family Recreation Center, soon would be announced.
Here is the Finance Meeting
Here is the Council Work Session + Meeting
