North Baltimore, Village of

The meeting primarily focused on planning for an upcoming festival. Key discussion points included finalizing arrangements for the fireworks display, selecting one of two proposed packages ($12,500 or $15,000), and addressing potential concerns regarding an eagle's nest near the launch site, which involved referencing past discussions with the ODNR. Furthermore, there was an extensive review of potential food vendors, including the Boy Scouts, Kona Ice, Pork, Scotty Sub, Front Porch Perfect, Taco Fiesta, and Mr. Melon, with a focus on avoiding duplication and ensuring all vendors provide proof of insurance. Decisions were made regarding vendor locations and a system where food vendors must submit an uncashed $50 check to incentivize post-event site cleanup. Finally, the committee discussed the Kids Zone, reviewing options for bounce houses and obstacle courses, ultimately favoring a package of four attractions for approximately $940, with the possibility of a fifth free attraction.

The special meeting included the swearing-in ceremony for newly elected council members. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the proposal to dispatch with the Wood County Sheriff's Department and enter into a contract for dispatch services. Public discussion addressed specific contractual details, including concerns about discrepancies in costs, user fees related to hardware/software (like the MarkX radio system), and provisions regarding police chief authority and contract duration. The council also addressed the nomination and subsequent vote to fill a vacant council seat, ultimately electing a new member to serve until the next meeting when the absent member will be sworn in. A motion was made and subsequently failed for the initial nominee for Council President, followed by the successful nomination and election of a second candidate for that position.

The meeting commenced with the pledge of allegiance and roll call. A motion was made and approved to adopt the minutes from the January 6, 2026 meeting as amended, reflecting expanded comments from Mr. Harden. The primary discussion revolved around public discussion concerning dispatch services, including potential upgrades to the current console system or transitioning to countywide dispatch. A dispatcher read a letter advocating for the current dispatch team to be given an opportunity for proper training and improvement rather than replacement. Technical details regarding a proposed console upgrade, estimated to cost between $40,000 and $45,000 for the initial model, were presented, noting the new system would include audio recording capabilities, which the current system lacks, addressing a significant liability concern. Further discussion addressed the timeline for this decision, with one member questioning the perceived "rush" despite the process adhering to the required three readings for legislation. Funding options, including federal and state grants, were briefly discussed, noting that the current timeline demands an immediate decision, unlike grant application processes.

The primary discussion focused on planning activities for the 150th and 250th anniversaries. The Historical Society plans to host several displays and online content utilizing archived photographs, and an individual will present historical facts about North Baltimore. A proposal for creating a current historical book spanning from 1976 to the present was introduced. The Library detailed its winter reading theme centered on these anniversaries, including specific monthly historical themes related to Ohio's role in national events. Ideas for community celebrations included a potential Fourth of July event, possibly involving fireworks or a patriotic singalong, and coordinating with the county for the America 250 celebration. The Garden Club is planning related activities focused on food, farms, and victory gardens. Coordination efforts with the County Commissioners regarding a countywide calendar were also mentioned.

The primary focus of the discussion revolved around compliance with House Bill 96, which mandates the implementation of a cybersecurity program for government subdivisions by June 30th. Key components discussed include identifying critical infrastructure, establishing recovery processes, setting up detection mechanisms, creating an incident response plan, defining employee training (e.g., identifying phishing emails), and establishing a disaster recovery policy. The timeline for implementation, including resolutions and risk assessments (which should remain confidential), was reviewed, with adherence to the NIST cybersecurity framework mentioned. Secondary topics included reviewing the existing 2017 policy regarding snow plowing for emergency services like EMS and the Fire Hall, and initiating the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process for a public works building project to determine scope and budget. Further discussions touched upon the expansion of the community garden, including planting fruit trees, and reviewing the existing ordinance for peddlers and solicitors, with a draft ordinance modeled after the City of Oregon's code presented.