The Groves City Council convened on November 4, 2024, to address several key agenda items, primarily focusing on the allocation of remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and the approval of invoices.

The meeting began with a discussion regarding the remaining $109,000 in ARPA funds after the completion of a sewer pipe project. City officials emphasized the urgency to obligate these funds by the end of the calendar year to avoid returning the money to the U.S. Treasury. A proposal was made to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Public Works Department to utilize these funds for a substandard building demolition program, which has been on hold for the past two years. The council anticipates that with a total of approximately $210,000, they could engage contractors to demolish at least 20 dangerous buildings, thereby enhancing community safety and aesthetics.

The discussion highlighted the importance of defining "beautification" in this context, clarifying that it pertains to the removal of unsafe structures. City officials noted that they have already identified 10 to 11 buildings for demolition, with more expected to be added in the coming months.

Following this, the council moved on to the approval of the invoice list for November 4, 2024. The total amount for the invoices was reported at $85,496.40, covering various expenses including payments for city credit cards, waste management services, and equipment for the public works department. The council reviewed each item, ensuring clarity on the nature of the expenses, particularly regarding the city’s purchasing cards.

The meeting concluded with a motion to enter an executive session to discuss pending litigation, real property deliberations, and personnel matters related to the municipal court. The council plans to reconvene in open session following these discussions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to utilizing available funds effectively while addressing community safety and infrastructure needs. The next steps will involve finalizing the demolition program and continuing discussions on the identified legal and personnel matters.