MARTINS FERRY - City council reviewed several ongoing projects during Wednesday night's meeting.
Mayor Paul Riethmiller reported an official date set for the grand opening and ribbon cutting of a new business is set for July 17 at 2 p.m. The ceremony will be held on the location of the new business on North First Street above the RG Steel Mill.
Riethmiller added that the name of the business has not been officially released, but it is a large operation and stands as a sign of an economic upturn in the area. Several company members are expected to be present, along with the county commissioners, the port authority director and railroad officials. Riethmiller noted that the incoming presence has resulted in the laying of new tracks.
Service Director Chuck Bennett reported grates were put in place Monday, completing the first phase of repairing drainage and collapsing road issues on Border Lane. The second phase will see the road paved.
Also, grass and weed cutting continues on dilapidated properties. A deserted house on Hughes Avenue is also being cleaned out.
In addition, fire hydrant replacement continues with hopes of completing one every month between normal water breaks. Council approved up to $30,000 from permanent improvement in order to return water funds to the water department.
Recognition went to council members Robert Duncan, Robert Krajnyak and Chris Cleary, along with wives and family, for their work during the recent 225th anniversary picnic in the park.
In other matters, the finance committee met recently. A budget hearing is set for July 5, 5:30 p.m. Council will pass the budget afterward.
Also, Councilman Russell Armstrong reported on a recent street committee meeting. There is $67,215.74 available for street paving. Estimates have been obtained for three areas in town. Cost of paving for Concord Street, the Fifth and Center Street intersection and Border Lane is $52,000-$58,000. Council will add North Eighth to Delia Avenue to the project and prepare to advertise for bidding.
In addition, council passed a resolution opposing dumping foreign steel in Belmont County.
Council also passed a resolution setting bid criteria for city projects.
Council approved a request from the Martins Ferry Lions Club to use the city park and pavilion July 14, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to hold its first yard sale in the park event. City residents will be able to pay a minimal fee for space to sell items. All money will go directly back into the community.
The park district and newly formed pool committee will begin planning for a new indoor pool and recreation facility connected to the existing structure. The community pool will likely not last past this year due to deteriorating walls, gutters and pump house. The park district has paid for the drawing of several different sets of architectural plans. Businesses will be approached as part of the fund-raising efforts.
Regarding the fire department, the new Liberty truck is online and will be ready near Thanksgiving.
Interviews for another full-time police officer are continuing.
The city is also working toward a grant for a new wheelchair van.
Two summer community service workers have started work.
A First Ward Crime Watch meeting was set for June 27, 6:30 p.m.
A service committee meeting was set for June 26, 6 p.m.
The next council meeting is set for July 5, 6 p.m.
DeFrank can be reached at rdefrank@timesleaderonline.com
