Rossford city council amends zoning map

Rossford city council has amended the zoning map in the Crossroads area to align more closely with regional needs. At the October 24 meeting, council approved a change from planned commercial to planned industrial for 300 acres, the majority of which is in the Crossroads. (see map) Mayor Neil MacKinnon III believes the change will encourage development in the area.

Safety Committee

Council reviewed the report from the safety committee’s October 19 meeting, including fire department issues. The department continues to struggle with staffing, though there was some optimism shared. The committee noted there are four applicants which they hope will become new members of the department.

In the report, the committee revealed that the fire department is in the final round of Staffing For Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant from FEMA and is hopeful that if funds become available, the department can hire up to six fulltime employees.

Fire Chief Josh Drouard also is working with Penta Career Center to obtain a few fire and EMS program students as potential employees after graduation.

Year-to-date, the department has hired three firefighters, purchased new turnout gear and received employee benefits including an additional paid holiday and a $75 incentive for picking up shifts.

Other Business

In other business, council:

•Heard from the finance committee regarding next year’s budget. The committee estimates revenues at $13.45 million and believes investments will remain solid.

•Learned that the recreation department is partnering with Bittersweet Farms to bring volunteers to the rec center to work, one day per week.

•Renewed its annual contract with Rossford Schools for a school resource officer. Officer Jodi Johnson will continue to serve that role.

•Gave the first reading of an ordinance involving rental dwellings. Proposed changes include cleaning up language, eliminating smaller fees and switching from self inspection of rental units to inspection by a city inspector.

•Entered into an agreement with Geddis Paving to resurface city lot one behind the former Dawgs ice cream, at a cost of $76,019. City engineer Todd Audet said the project will be complete by year’s end.

•Nominated Chuck Latta to fill a vacancy on the Northwestern Water and Sewer District board.

•Authorized DGL Consulting Engineers to conduct preliminary engineering for the Innovation Commerce and Crossroads transportation plan. Cost for the work will be paid for through a $500,000 grant. Council’s next meeting will be at 6 p.m., Monday, November 14 in council chambers, 133 Osborne Street, and is open to the public.