Ryan A. Strange

The meeting contained informal pre-session discussions regarding financial and legislative matters.

The council reviewed and approved several ordinances, including an adjustment to non-bargaining unit employee pay ranges, a budget appropriation for stormwater projects, and a financial contribution of $40,000 to the Avita Foundation to support coronavirus response efforts, specifically for the procurement of personal protective equipment. Additionally, the council adopted temporary rules for virtual operations during the pandemic and discussed the modification of park project funding requests.

The committee meetings focused on several key items. For the Parks Committee, the agenda included a discussion on Ordinance 2020-21 regarding project funding for the pool, park playground safety upgrades, and log cabin roof repairs, with a strategic decision to reduce the overall request to the Freeze Foundation to preserve principle funds. The Finance Committee reviewed a transfer of funds for a storm sewer project due to appropriation changes, and discussed a supplemental appropriation to provide financial support to the Avita Foundation for COVID-19 related medical supplies and decontamination equipment to be utilized by the local community hospital.

The Council reviewed public concerns regarding parking and safety measures on the walking trail, along with a presentation on a proposed camera system. Legislation was passed regarding the appointment of a member to the Galion Design Review Board, the authorization of a job creation tax credit agreement, the advertising for farming rental contracts at the city airport, and the authorization of internet auction services for disposing of city property. Additionally, the Council approved several appropriations and fund transfers for the Health Department and various debt and grant-funded projects, and discussed proposed changes to the current Design Review process. Reports were provided on the Veterans Memorial replacement project, the construction progress of the Depot, and the America 250 event.

The regular meeting included actions to amend the agenda by adding Ordinance No. 2026-3 and Resolution No. 2026-5. Council authorized the Safety-Service Director to purchase three 2026 Police Interceptor vehicles without competitive bidding, passing Ordinance No. 2026-3. Amended Resolution No. 2026-1 was passed, appointing Anthony Tanner to the Board of Trustees of the Egbert M. Freese Foundation after correcting a name error. Resolution No. 2026-3, approving the re-appointment of Amie Wolf to the Galion City Health Board, and Resolution No. 2026-4, approving the re-appointment of Michael Flick to the same board, were both passed. A motion to suspend rules for Resolution No. 2026-5, appointing Todd Brown to the Galion Design Review Board, failed. In the Mayor's Report, concerns were raised regarding road salt shortages (down to 100 tons) and the estimated $70k cost for a new salt bin.