CITY MANAGER REMARKS 2/14/2022
Nature Preserve:
We were informed that the Army Corp of Engineers will be signing our Nationwide permit very soon giving us authority to complete the driveway off of Route 57. As the property is still owned by Morton Salt, Matt S. and I have been communicating and working with Morton to finalize our purchase agreement. Our deadline to proceed with the completion of the Nature Preserve is June 30, 2022 as we were given an extension on the final phase of the project by OPWC. The WJR ribbon cutting ceremony preparations are being managed by Garrick and his staff. We will give Council adequate notice of this ceremony as your presence would be greatly appreciated.
The WJR Nature Preserve is now part of the Wayne County Winter Hike Challenge sponsored by Local Roots Market & Café. We will have this information available on the WJR Nature Preserve Facebook page, our website as well as copies of the brochure at the Rec Center. What a fun way to get fit and be out in nature during the winter months!
Solar Panel Project:
If you have been out by our Waste Water Treatment Plant, you will see all the work that has been done on the solar panel project. The installation of the panels continues and we are hopeful that this work will be completed this spring. Mike Brown has been doing a great job working with the Verde Solutions representatives as questions and concerns arise.
BWC updates:
Matt and I met with our TPA (Third Party Administrator) Mark Milano who assists us with our BWC options for discounts and to also go over our claims’ history over the last several years. The city has done very well, in regards to claims and lost time due to accidents, which is a testament to our staff. Matt and I will continue assessing BWC programs and grant opportunities as they arise.
Legislation:
I will ask Council to consider this evening adopting Ordinance 8275 which will allow the city to accept the 2022 Energized Community grant and also Resolution 8276 which will allow the city to apply for a revolving loan for our water line replacement project of Sterling, Erie and Walnut Streets, as a requirement of the Ohio EPA who administers this loan.
THANK YOU!
Another storm and more great work by our plow crew, police and fire. It was quite a snow event and everyone did an amazing job so even though words aren’t enough, we truly appreciate their hard work and dedication to the citizenry of Rittman.
Happy Valentine’s Day to you and your loved ones!