At this time, Mr. Neff asked that everyone please stand for the prayer and remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance.  Mr. Neff gave the invocation.

Ms. Abdella made a motion to accept the minutes of January 09, 2012 as presented and by pass the reading.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Reports of City Officials

Mayor Lorentz presented the below report before council:

Effective January 3^rd Kimble Companies is consolidating all waste disposals and recycling entities into one name KIMBLE. They assure their customers that service will remain consistent. Kimble also owns Ace disposal along with J&J.

Allohak Council for Boys Scouts of America has asked for Civitan Park to be the site for their Camporee in June. As of now I have reserved the entire park June 20^th through the 23^rd for this activity. If attended as well as the past years have been you will see 250 to 300 young men in our park during this time. The Belpre leadership has asked us to come up with a project they could complete during this time to thank the city for their cooperation and support.

On Friday the 13^th Washington County Sheriff’s Department held a sale on the Courthouse steps. Nobody entered a bid on the motel property. This may be a long process cleaning up this area.

At the last meeting I was elected to the Board of Directors for Marietta Health Foundation Board. This is somewhat of a new experience for me but looking forward to it.

Dawn Raugh from Washington Morgan Community Action will be scheduling public hearings for our next CHIP Opportunity. Possible times will be February 13^th and March 12, prior to our council meetings.

The city has now $50,000.00 toward the expansion of the Senior Center. In this year’s appropriations I am asking council to consider adding funds to complete this project. I am working to gather new quotes for some of the items that may have changed.

Since our last meeting I did attend an informational meeting at the college addressing funding from the state along with our new Superintendent. This is the states way of spending municipal funds that we once received without competing with the larger cities. Maximum grant amounts are $100,000.00 per project.

On your desk I have placed an invitation to a meeting explaining the Utica Shale and Fracking operations going on in our area. The meeting is open to the public and I have been told we should try and attend to assure Belpre City is represented.

Susan Hagerty from the High School called and would like for us to come up with a problem that the Problem Solving Team could work on this semester. If you have an idea please let me know as this exercise starts in February.

The Dog Warden will be returning the 25^th of this month during the hours of 1pm until 8pm for all those who need tags.

Mr. McAfee emphasized the additional $15,000 from the Senior Citizens Grant to make the $50,000.  If the monies are not used within this year we will lose the money.

Safety-Service Director Mr. Ferguson was absent.  No report was given in his absence.

City Auditor Miss Pittenger presented a spreadsheet that she uses for the State Audit.  This is a helpful tool that she uses to be sure we are staying in the budget.  We do have some citations.  They are all payroll lines.

End of the Year Report – First page tells you actual expenses vs. revenue. We had more revenue then expenses as a whole.  The next page is Revenue, followed by the expenses on the third page and finally the Income Tax Collection on the last page.  Mr. Neff asked Miss Pittenger if the increase on the last page was due to the aggressive tax collections.  Miss Pittenger told Mr. Neff that this was all due to the aggressive tax collections.  Mr. Neff also asked about the negative dollar amount on Fund 604 Sanitation.  Miss Pittenger informed Mr. Neff that this was when we transferred funds from the sanitation fund to the general fund.

At the last meeting I had asked for everyone to vote on their favorite color for Belpre in Bloom.  The primary color for this year is “yellow”.  When fixing up your landscaping this year be sure and use the color yellow.  We have several projects planned this year as well as fund raising events.  We are planning a Bus Trip to Bob’s Market as one of our fund raising events.  On that day we will enjoy shopping in downtown Pomeroy and enjoying a nice lunch at the Wild Horse.  We will be also asking for personal and business sponsors for Baskets in the Park and for banners for up and down Main Street.

Last but not least is the Utility Adjustment Report for December awaiting Council approval?  Mr. Sinnett made a motion to accept the Utility Adjustment Report for December.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

City Law Director Mr. Webster reported that Mayor’s Court continues to be lengthy.  Multiple pieces of legislation have been prepared by the law office and have been assigned to committee.  At this time there is no known litigation involving the city.

Treasurer Mr. McAfee reported that a copy of the November and December Treasurer’s Report is before you tonight and is awaiting council approval.  Ms. Abdella made a motion to accept the November and December 2011 Treasurers Report as presented.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye. Signed copies have been presented to the clerk.

Mr. McAfee announced that the Lions Club is once again sponsoring the Annual Senior Luncheon.  Awards will be given and also a free lunch.

Mr. McAfee also stated that he would be out of town for a few days as his wife would be having back surgery.

Communications and Petitions:

Mr. Neff announced that he had distributed legislation that was prepared by our law director.  In this was A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING SUPPORT OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELPRE, OHIO, TO WOOD-WASHINGTON-WIRT INTERSTATE PLANNING COMMISSION CONCERNING MAINTAINING CURRENT POPULATION THRESHOLDS FOR METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATIONS.  I would like to by-pass committee and vote on this as a whole.  Ms. Abdella asked for point of clarification.  Mr. Wallace made a motion for first reading A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING SUPPORT OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELPRE, OHIO, TO WOOD-WASHINGTON-WIRT INTERSTATE PLANNING COMMISSION CONCERNING MAINTAINING CURRENT POPULATION THRESHOLDS FOR METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATIONS.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Mrs. Marshall made a motion to suspend the rule of council to allow for multiple readings.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Mrs. Marshall made a motion for second and third readings A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING SUPPORT OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELPRE, OHIO, TO WOOD-WASHINGTON-WIRT INTERSTATE PLANNING COMMISSION CONCERNING MAINTAINING CURRENT POPULATION THRESHOLDS FOR METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATIONS.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Mrs. Marshall moved this be Resolution 1, 2012-2013 and duly passed.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Mr. Neff encouraged all members to send a letter opposing this resolution.

Several pieces of legislation have been passed out and I encourage each member of council to begin taking action on this legislation.

I would like council to move into the 21^st Century and operate as an electronic environment.  Ms. Abdella suggested a secure site to the Cities website.

Mr. Martin suggested that council consider using Notepads.

Mr. McCauley also addressed his concerns from the Law Office point of view.

Mr. Neff also reported that he received a letter of intent (from a gentleman) to establish a business in Belpre.  The name of the business is Bernie’s Transportation and Courier Service.  This service would be used to transport the elderly.  The business location would be 923 Florence Street. Mr. Neff assigned this to Planning & Zoning.  Mr. McAfee asked if this service would be handicap accessible.  The service would not.

Report of Standing Committee:

Ms. Abdella had no report for the Finance Audit Committee.  Ms. Abdella made a motion to by-pass committee and add to tonight’s agenda A RESOLUTION GRANTING BLANKET AUTHORITY TO THE MAYOR TO APPLY FOR GRANTS.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.  This will lie over until the next meeting of council. Ms. Abdella called a Finance Meeting for January 25, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. for the purpose of discussing the Permanent Appropriations.

Mr. Sinnett reported that Police and Fire Committee met prior to this evening meeting to discuss the purchase of two police cruisers.  Mr. Sinnett stated that the committee would decide after the Finance Committee meeting as to their intentions.  Mr. Sinnett asked about placing the legislation for purchasing the police cruisers on the agenda.  It was the suggestion of the law director to hold off due to confusion.

Mr. Wallace had no report for Streets, Sidewalks and Storm Sewers Committee but discussed his intentions for his committee.

Mr. Robinson had no report for the Utilities Committee.  Mr. Robinson called a committee meeting for February 13, at 6:30 p.m. for the purpose of discussing Gas and Electric Aggregation.

Mr. Martin had no report for Parks and Recreation Committee however he told council that he had talked with Anytime Fitness about giving a special rate for city employees.  Mr. Martin called a committee meeting for February 13^th, at 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of discussing Safe Routes to Schools, storm water run-off, Farson Street turn lanes and guard rails to close Dana Road.

Mrs. Marshall had no report for Planning and Zoning Committee.

Mrs. Marshall had no report for Economic Development Committee.

Mr. Baker had no report for the Rules Committee.

Persons Appearing Before Council – Agenda items only.   None

New Business:

Ms. Abdella brought before council for first reading A RESOLUTION GRANTING BLANKET AUTHORITY TO THE MAYOR TO APPLY FOR GRANTS.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.  This will lie over until the next meeting of council.

Mr. Neff recognized Chief Clevenger, Chief Frank and Leonard Wiggins our new Code Enforcement Officer.

Mr. Robinson spoke briefly about the closure of the Department of Motor Vehicle and how disappointing it was.

Also discussed were our city pool and the pool being handicap accessible.

Persons Appearing Before Council:

none

Adjourn:

Mr. Robinson made a motion to adjourn at 8:30 p.m… A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

This post is password protected. To view it please enter your password below:

Password:

The Regular Meeting of the Council of the City of Belpre, Ohio was called to order by Council President Mr. Neff at 7:30 p.m. with Mr. Neff welcoming everyone to this evening’s meeting.  The roll was called with the following members present:  Ms. Abdella, Mr. Robinson, Mr. Sinnett, and Mr. Wallace present.  Also present were Mayor Lorentz, City Auditor Miss Pittenger, City Law Director was filled by Mr. Andrew Webster, Treasurer Mr. McAfee and Clerk of Council Mrs. Meredith.  Absent from the meeting were Mr. Tom Webster, Mr. Baker, Mrs. Marshall and Mr. Martin.

At this time, Mr. Neff asked that everyone please stand for the prayer and remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance.  Mr. Neff gave the invocation.

Mr. Neff appointed Kimberly Meredith as Council Clerk for the City of Belpre for the 2012-2013 terms.

Mr. Neff also made the appointment of each committee assignments.  Mr. Neff stated that the first name under each committee assignment was appointed chairman of that committee.

By voice vote all that are in favor of the appointments voting aye, those oppose voting nay.  Motion carried.

At this time, Ms. Abdella made a motion to appoint Larry Martin as Council President Protem.  By voice vote all that are in favor voting aye, those oppose voting nay.  Motion carried.

Motion was made by Mr. Sinnett to appoint Ms. Abdella as Council Clerk Protem.  By voice vote all that are in favor of appointing Ms. Abdella as Council Clerk Protem voting aye.  Those oppose voting aye.  Motion carried.

At this time Ms. Abdella made a motion to go into Executive Session at 7:40 p.m. for the purpose of discussing the Labor Agreement.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Mr. Robinson made a motion to accept the minutes of December 12, 2011 as presented and by pass the reading.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Reports of City Officials

Mayor Lorentz presented the below report before council:

Council, you have legislation before you tonight to allow us to proceed with another Safe Routes to Schools Grant. If at all possible I would like to get this approved and passed this evening so we can proceed immediately. The other ODOT legislation is for the Farson and Braun intersections. One reading tonight then complete at our next meeting will suffice.

You also have a piece of legislation asking to accept the new contract with the Police Department and the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 400. If we do not approve tonight it will go into effect 30 days from their vote which was December 14^th, 2011.

After our last meeting with Fred Holmes I received a copy of the PUCO ruling for AEP’s Electric Security Plan. As explained to me by one of the lawyers for the Industrial Electrical Users we do need to act quicker than suggested so to save as much money as possible. A copy of this ruling has been sent to Mr. Holmes for his review.

On December 17^th I joined the Belpre Rotary Club in their Wreaths across America effort in Belpre. Wreaths were placed at the Cedarville Cemetery as well as the Veterans Park down town.

On December 19^th we met with ODOT and Strand to discuss the design work for our Safe Routes Grant as well as Farson St. When traveling through this area you will see surveyors working on both projects.

The Interstate Planning Commission has added Washington Blvd. and Main St. to the T.I.P. for 2015. This will be a large undertaking but much needed. The Water, Sewer and Street Department are aware and working to provide us a list of needs that should be completed before we re-surface the two main thoroughfares.

Mr. Ferguson and I have been working with Leonard Wiggins to develop the plan and job description for a Code Enforcement officer for the city. Although this will not be Leonard’s sole responsibility it will take most of his time. In the very near future if you agree we will be asking for legislation and a slot on the manpower roster to accommodate this position.

On your desk tonight is the quotes from Statewide for new Police Cruisers. One quote is for an SUV style and the other for the sedan. We would like to get this purchase approved as soon as possible to allow for midyear delivery. My recommendation is to purchase two vehicles, preferably one of each. There is a $3400.00 difference in cost but, the availability of 4 wheel drive would be worth it during winter months.

We now have approximately $50,000.00 toward the Senior Center addition. Council, we need to decide before I spend a lot of time what our plans are for this project. We have the money, we have the need, and this opportunity will only knock once.

On your desk tonight you will find the activity reports for the O’Neill Center and the Police and Fire Departments for 2011.

The Civil Service Commission is scheduling the test for our police department. Ms. Meredith has been provided copies of the notice for our bulletin boards.

This year will be very busy for all of us as it seems all of our projects are coming to a start near the same time. Hopefully we can all work toward a common goal as well as be patient with one another as we work though this busy period.

Safety-Service Director Mr. Ferguson was absent.  No report was given in his absence.

City Auditor Miss Pittenger reported on Belpre in Bloom and thanked all those who purchased luminaries and helped with lighting up our city and those who have taken part in the other events.  The lights parade was a success.  Our next project is Paint the Town.  Each member of council has received a paper on their desk this evening in order to select colors for our city.  These colors will be used in our landscaping.

The Auditor’s Office has been very busy.  I have moved my office to the first door on the left and Leonard’s is now next to the Mayor’s Office.

R.I.T.A. transition is going very well.  We have 50 summonses for unpaid taxes.  R.I.T.A. will go forward with the collections.

I do not have the Utilities Adjustment Report with me tonight but will have it next time so that council can approve.

City Law Director Mr. Andrew Webster stated that legislation has been prepared and is before you tonight.  I have no other report at this time.

Treasurer Mr. McAfee had no report.

Communications and Petitions:

Mr. Neff assigned the following legislation to committees:

Finance/Audit:  A RESOLUTION GRANTING BLANKET AUTHORITY TO THE MAYOR TO APPLY FOR GRANTS.

Recreation:  AN ORDINANCE REPEALING SECTION 965.01 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF BELPRE REGARDING MUNICIPAL SWIMMING POOL RATES.

Street, Sidewalks & Storm Sewers:  AN ORDINANCE CONTROLLING CONSTRUCTION SITE AND POST CONSTRUCTION SOIL EROSION, SEDIMENT, AND OTHER WASTES AND STORM WATER RUNOFF.

Utilities:  AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE THE PLAN OF OPERATION AND GOVERNANCE FOR THE CITY OF BELPRE ELECTRIC AGGREGATION PROGRAM.

Utilities:  AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE THE PLAN OF OPERATION AND GOVERNANCE FOR THE CITY OF BELPRE NATURAL GAS AGGREGATION PROGRAM.

Street, Sidewalks & Storm Sewers:  PRELIMINARY RESOLUTION REGARDING FARSON STREET TURN LANE.

Street, Sidewalks & Storm Sewers:  PRELIMINARY RESOLUTION REGARDING BELPRE SIDEWALK SRTS.

Police and Fire:  A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR, SAFETY-SERVICE DIRECTOR AND LAW DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE A LABOR AGREEMENT WITH UNITED FOOD AND COMMERCIAL WORKERS, LOCAL 400, AFL-CIO.

Police and Fire:  AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE SAFETY-SERVICE DIRECTOR TO PURCHASE TWO POLICE CRUISERS THROUGH THE STATE COOPERATIVE PURCHASING PROGRAM.

Finance Audit:  PERMANENT APPROPRIATIONS FOR 2012.

Mr. Lorentz announced that Mr. Holmes was to be present at the next meeting regarding aggregation.

Other correspondence is as follows:

Walter Drane Company – Invoice for $360.00 for hosting the Codified Ordinances.

Liquor Control – Letter for Go Mart located at 206 Washington Blvd.

Pamphlet regarding Small Town, Big Future.

Report of Standing Committee:

Ms. Abdella had no report for the Finance Audit Committee.  Ms. Abdella stated that she would be calling a committee meeting on the Permanent Appropriations.  The meeting is to be announced.

Mr. Sinnett had no report for Police and Fire Committee.  Mr. Sinnett called a Committee Meeting for January 23^rd at 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of discussing the purchase of  two police cruisers.  Mr. Sinnett also verified that the United Food Service would become in effect January 14,

Mr. Wallace had no report for Streets, Sidewalks and Storm Sewers Committee. Mr. Wallace was told that information would be provided at the next meeting on legislation assigned.

Mr. Robinson had no report for the Utilities Committee.

Mr. Martin was absent.  No report was given for the Parks and Recreation Committee.

Mrs. Marshall was absent.  No report was given for the Planning and Zoning Committee.

Mrs. Marshall was absent.  No report was given for Economic Development Committee.

Mr. Baker had no report for the Rules Committee.

Persons Appearing Before Council – Agenda items only.   None

New Business:  None

Ms. Abdella asked Chief Frank why the numbers of squad runs were down.  Were they due to missed calls or not having enough volunteers available.  Chief Frank stated that it was due to not having enough volunteers available.

Persons Appearing Before Council:

Denise Parsons, 996 Dana Drive appeared before council regarding the closure of Dana Road.  She stated that there were concerns from her neighbors about the condition of the road.

Mr. Neff assigned Dana Road to Streets, Sidewalks, and Storm Sewers.

Carol Stimpert, 6^th Street, Belpre appeared before council with concerns of the condition of Dana Road.

Ms. Abdella asked for a proposal from the Mayor and Mr. Webster/Mr. McCauley to close this road.  Mayor Lorentz stated that he would see that Mr. Wallace gets down there this week to check out the condition of the road.

Mr. Neff stated that this has been an ongoing problem.

Ms. Abdella made a motion to excuse all members of council that is not present at this evening’s meeting.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Mr. Neff also welcomed Mr. Wallace to this council.

Adjourn:

Mr. Robinson made a motion to adjourn at 8:35 p.m… A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

At this time, Mr. Packard asked that everyone please stand for the prayer and remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance.  Mr. McAfee gave the invocation.

Miss Gibson/Mr. Martin made a motion to accept the minutes of November 28, 2011 as presented and by-pass the reading.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Reports of City Officials

Student Mayor Mr. Crislip presented his report that was prepared by Mayor Lorentz:

On November 29^th we met in the conference room to negotiate the Police Department Contract with our employees and representatives.  I am pleased to report to council that by 3PM we had a tentative contract for two years.  Our city is blessed with good officers.

On November 30^th AmeriCorps had use of council chambers to host a fund raising training session.  Everyone involved commented on our facility and wanted to thank the administration for hosting.

My wife and I attended the Easter Seals Christmas Tree Auction.  The winning tree sold for $10,500.  Even with the downturn in the economy we still have some very generous people in our midst.

The PM Company invited me to the Spirit of Giving Evening at Grand Point.  Belpre Area Ministries was the recipient of their generosity for 2011.

December 8^th Mr. Ferguson, Chief Clevenger, Officer Kirby and I traveled to Columbus so to personally inspect and discuss new patrol cars for our department.

Bill McElfresh from O.D.O.T. has asked that we expedite the legislation before you.  The slips are within our city limits but require no energy or funding from the city.  O.D.O.T. is trying to fast track this project while weather is bad.  I am asking that this be placed on tonight’s agenda and passed to allow time for bids.

The Middleton Doll Building will be auctioned off December 15^th at 10 am.  The Motel will be sold on the courthouse steps January 13^th at 1PM if anyone is interested.

On December 6^th I asked for information from ODOT so to apply for another Gateway Grant.  Please know that I will need council authorization for upcoming grants in 2012.  Mr. McCauley had drafted legislation but we held it until January so to not duplicate the effort.

Hopefully everyone received my email about your post election report.  If you did not have a committee, treasurer or spend any money it is not necessary to file at this point.

I want to personally thank Mrs. Boso for her service to our city and welcome Mr. Bob Wallace to city council.

I also want to let everyone know that the swearing in ceremony for Belpre City Council is January 1, 2012 at 8:00 AM in Belpre City Council Chambers.  Please mark your calendars as this will be the last meeting before the New Year.

Student Safety-Service Director Mr. Whittington had no report.

Student City Auditor Mr. Lynn announced that the Adjustment Summary Report has been distributed to each council person and a signed copy has been given to the clerk.  At this time I would ask approval from council.  Mr. Forshey/Mr. Sinnett made a motion to accept the Adjustment Report as presented.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

The Auditor’s office is working to clear the books on back taxes.  We have another Mayor’s Court scheduled for this Tuesday dedicated just to city tax collections.  We will not be complete by year end but close.

The Mayor and Auditor are going to work on another gateway grant sponsored by O.D.O.T. to assist Belpre in Bloom efforts throughout our city.

If you have not purchased your luminaries for Belpre in Bloom you can still do so at the city building and at Bob’s Market this week.

The Income Tax Court is ongoing:  On the 13^th of December we have 6 on the docket, November 22^nd we processed 15 cases and November 8^th we processed 22 cases.  We still have 50-55 warrants to be served.

Student City Law Director Mr. Morris had no report.

Student City Treasurer Mr. Jordan had no report.

Communications and Petitions:  none

Report of Standing Committee:

Miss Hatfield reported for Ms. Abdella that the Finance Audit Committee met at 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of discussing the PRELIMINARY RESOLUTION REGARDING HIGHWAY PROJECT.  At this time, Miss Hatfield made a motion to add to tonight’s agenda for 1^st reading PRELIMINARY RESOLUTION REGARDING HIGHWAY PROJECT.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye. Ms. Abdella asked the Mayor if the Labor Agreement needed to be added to the agenda.  Mayor Lorentz stated that he wasn’t aware of this until today.  We have 30 days in which to act upon.  It can be brought up the first meeting in January.  Mayor Lorentz will provide the attachment.

Miss Forshey/Mr. Baker had no report for Police and Fire Committee.

Miss Cain/Mrs. Marshall had no report for Streets, Sidewalks and Storm Sewers Committee.

Mr. O’Dell/Mr. Robinson reported that Fred Holmes was here prior to this evenings meeting to discuss Gas and Electric Aggregation.  There was no further discussion for the Utilities Committee.

Miss Gibson/Mr. Martin had no report for the Parks and Recreation Committee.

Miss Wright/Mrs. Boso had no report for the Planning and Zoning Committee.

Miss Wright/Mrs. Boso had no report for the Economic Development Committee.

Mr. Forshey/Mr. Sinnett had no report for the Rules Committee.

Persons Appearing Before Council – Agenda items only.   None

Unfinished Business:

Miss Hatfield brought before council for third reading AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING AUTHORIZED MANPOWER FOR CALENDAR & FISCAL YEAR 2012.   This Ordinance establishes the City’s 2012 manpower authorization at 37 positions.

Mr. Forhey/Mr. Sinnett made a motion to change the number of manpower from 36 to 37.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

A vote was taken on the third reading of AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING AUTHORIZED MANPOWER FOR CALENDAR & FISCAL YEAR 2012 as amended.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Miss Hatfield moved this be Ordinance 36, 2010-2011 and duly passed.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye. President of Council Mr. Packard declared this be Ordinance 36, 2010-2011 and duly passed.  President of Council Mr. Neff declared this be Ordinance 36, 2010-2011 and duly passed

Miss Hatfield moved to place before council for second reading A RESOLUTION SUPPLEMENTING YEAR 2011 APPROPRIATIONS.  This Ordinance specifies funds that City council is authorizing the City Administration to spend during the first three months of calendar and fiscal year 2012, at the rate of 25% of the estimated 2012 budget amounts, as are shown in attached Exhibit A.  Without this authorization, the City Auditor cannot write checks for City payroll, supplies, materials, services, or any other expenditure of funds until the annual appropriation ordinance for 2012 is passed, which must occur by April 1, 2012.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Miss Hatfield moved to suspend the rule of council requiring readings of this resolution on three different days to allow the third reading of A RESOLUTION SUPPLEMENTING YEAR 2011 APPROPRIATIONS.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Miss Hatfield moved to place before council for third reading A RESOLUTION SUPPLEMENTING YEAR 2011 APPROPRIATIONS.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Miss Hatfield moved this be Resolution 49, 2010-2011 and duly passed.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.  President of Council Mr. Packard declared this be Resolution 49, 2010-2011 and duly passed.  President of Council Mr. Neff declared this be Resolution 49, 2010-2011 and duly passed.

New Business:

Miss Hatfield brought before council for first reading PRELIMINARY RESOLUTION REGARDING HIGHWAY PROJECT.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting.

Miss Hatfield moved to suspend the rule of council requiring reading of this resolution on three different days to allow for the second and third readings of PRELIMINARY RESOLUTION REGARDING HIGHWAY PROJECT.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Miss Hatfield placed before council for second and third readings PRELIMINARY RESOLUTION REGARDING HIGHWAY PROJECT.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Miss Hatfield moved this be Resolution 50, 2010-2011 and duly passed.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.  President of Council Mr. Packard declared this be Resolution 50, 2010-2011.  President of Council Mr. Neff declared this be Resolution 50, 2010-2011 and duly passed.

Persons Appearing Before Council:

Karen Locke, 726 Tuttle Street, Belpre reported that OVRCC held a benefit race and received $466.00 that was donated to Belpre Area Ministries.

Mr. Palmer, Government Teacher, Belpre High School spoke before council regarding the talented students that he had this year. He stated that his class had been working with both local and state government.  Mr. Palmer felt that his students had done a great job this evening. He also recognized students in the audience that was at the meeting in support of their classmates.

Mr. Neff said good bye to Mrs. Boso and recognized her for the four years that she spent working with us on council.  Mr. Neff appreciated all her efforts.

Mr. Neff welcomed Mr. Robert Wallace, former Belpre High School Administrator who will be working with us for the next couple of years.  Mr. Wallace will be replacing Mrs. Boso.

Mr. Robinson recognized the students with us this evening and stated that he had enjoyed working with each of them.

Mayor Lorentz also recognized the students for their outstanding performance.

Mr. Packard thanked all members of council and the administration for working with them on this project.

Adjourn:

Mr. O’Dell/Mr. Robinson made a motion to adjourn at 8:10 p.m… A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

 At this time, Mr. Neff asked that everyone please stand for the prayer and remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance.  Mr. Neff gave the invocation.

Mrs. Marshall made a motion to accept the minutes of November 14, 2011 as presented and by-pass the reading.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Reports of City Officials

Mayor Lorentz presented his report:

Chief Frank has asked me to add a Mr. James Satterfield to the roles of Fire Fighter.  This addition still leaves vacancies if more should volunteer.

December 15^th, the Elementary School will be here at 10AM to sing Christmas Carols for us.

On November 21^st I was invited to the high school to visit with the government class.  The classes were very interested in just what we go through each day in the city.  Many wanted my take on what is happening on the national level.  The students are getting geared up for the election to decide city officials to take over on December 12^th.

November 23^rd David and I met with the Farson Street Carwash owner to discuss an expansion there as well as storm run-off issues.  With construction on both sides of the railroad we need to pay close attention so to retain access or right-away for storm sewer repairs from Washington Blvd. to the rail.

The Holiday Lights Committee has the city up and running for Christmas.  The Lights Parade on Saturday Night was one of the longest and very well attended.

The Belpre in Bloom Committee held the first Beauty Pageant on Saturday at the Elementary School.  Miss Bayley Collins is our 1^st Miss Belpre in Bloom for 2012.

Mr. Ferguson and I will start negotiations with our Police Department at 10AM.  At the same time my wife will fill-in for me at the Blennerhassett judging the Christmas Trees for the Easter Seals.  The Auction for Easter Seals is this Friday night at 6PM at the Blennerhassett.

Please try to make yourselves available on the 12^th of December for Student Government Day.  Lunch will be served at noon in the Sr. Center for all participants.  Mrs. Meredith,  I would ask that we get the minutes and agenda for this meeting right away so to allow the kids time to review and Mr. Ferguson and I time to put a script together.

Mayor Lorentz introduced Miss Bayley Collins, the 1^st Miss Belpre in Bloom for 2012.

There was no report for the Safety-Service Director.

City Auditor Miss Pittenger reported that as the Mayor mentioned the 1^st Miss Belpre in Bloom was chosen.  The judges chose a great winner Miss Bayley Collins. Miss Pittenger invited the community to join us for our inaugural Belpre in Bloom activity as we Light up the Town on Friday, December 23, 2011.  We are selling luminary kits, and hope to have neighborhoods throughout the city join us in lighting their luminaries at 6 pm on the 23^rd.  Kits are available for sale for $20 for ten sets, and may be purchased at Bob’s Market or the Belpre City Building up until Wednesday, December 22 at noon.  You are welcome to light your luminaries each night throughout the season if you wish.  We are simply designating one night that we know to be a popular “tour the lights” night as our Light up the Town date.

City Law Director Mr. Webster spoke briefly about vacating an alley.  I also did some research on Dana Road.  Dana Road originated in 1940 and was part of Dodges Addition.  At that time there was no acceptance by the city.  It was dedicated by the owner. It is on the plat and it is a location; however, the ordinance is not part of the code today.

City Treasurer Mr. McAfee had no report.  Mr. McAfee thanked everyone who took part in the Light’s Parade in Belpre.

Communications and Petitions:

Mr. Neff presented the following to council:

1. You have until December 16, 2011 to complete post election report with the Board of Election.  You can do so by going on line or at the Board of Elections.

2. On December 12, 2011, I will have a list of the new Committee Assignments for the 2012-2013 terms.

3. Just as a reminder newly elected officials for 2012-2013 will be sworn in the 1^st day of the New Year.  Judge Dyar Welch will be swearing us in on the first day of the New Year.  The time is to be announced.

Report of Standing Committee:

Ms. Abdella had no report for the Finance Audit Committee however; Ms. Abdella made a motion to add to tonight’s agenda for first reading A RESOLUTION SUPPLEMENTING YEAR 2011 APPROPRIATIONS.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Mr. Baker was absent.  No report was given for the Police and Fire Committee.

Mrs. Marshall had no report for Streets, Sidewalks and Storm Sewers Committee.

Mr. Robinson had no report for the Utilities Committee.

Mr. Martin had no report for the Parks and Recreation Committee.

Mrs. Boso had no report for the Planning and Zoning Committee.

Mrs. Boso had no report for the Economic Development Committee.

Mr. Sinnett was absent.  There was no report given for the Rules Committee.

Persons Appearing Before Council – Agenda items only.   None

Unfinished Business:

Ms. Abdella brought before council for third reading TEMPORARY APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE FOR CALENDAR AND FISCAL YEAR 2012.  Ms. Abdella told council that each member of council should have received a change to the exhibit.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Ms. Abdella moved this be Ordinance 35, 2010-2011 and duly passed.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Ms. Abdella brought before council for second reading AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING AUTHORIZED MANPOWER FOR CALENDAR & FISCAL YEAR 2012.   A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.  This will lie over until the next meeting of council.

New Business:

Ms. Abdella brought before council for first reading A RESOLUTION SUPPLEMENTING YEAR 2011 APPROPRIATIONS.  Discussion followed.  Miss Pittenger explained that the reason we have to do this is because of the ODOT Project.  They are requesting $75,000 that we thought we were going to pay in 2012.  If we don’t do a supplemental, the State Auditor would have a critical finding on our audit next year.  The confusion was due to the bidding process.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.

Persons Appearing Before Council:

Mrs. Marshall made a motion to excuse from tonight’s meeting Mr. Sinnett and Mr. Baker and Mrs. Boso from the November 14, 2011 meeting.  A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.  Mr. Neff stated that Mr. Sinnett was working, Mr. Baker had a medical issue and Mrs. Boso had family that was ill.

Mr. Neff requested that all students participating in Student Government Day should contact their council member that they will be working with for instructions.

Mrs. Marshall asked the law director questions regarding the closure of Dana Road and what she needed to do.  Mr. Webster is to submit a map and legal description.  Mr. Ferguson will notify the land owners if the committee decides to vacate.

Adjourn:

Mr. Robinson made a motion to adjourn at 8:10 p.m… A vote was taken with all members of council present voting aye.