Ashland City Council finalizes contracts for wastewater treatment and community development projects

The Ashland City Commissioners convened on April 25, 2025, to address several key ordinances and contracts that will impact the community's infrastructure and public services. The meeting, which began with a call to order and the approval of the agenda, focused primarily on the final adoption of multiple contracts related to the city's water production and wastewater treatment operations.

One significant decision was the approval of a contract with CJ Hughes Construction Company for the replacement of sanitary sewer lines on Carr Street, Packard Avenue, and Iroquois Avenue, resulting in a contract decrease of $46,399.25. This project is expected to enhance the city's sewer infrastructure, addressing long-standing issues and improving service reliability for residents.

Additionally, the commissioners approved contracts for various chemical purchases essential for water treatment processes. These included agreements with multiple suppliers for items such as powder activated carbon, sodium hypochlorite, and aluminum sulfate, with prices ranging from $1.077 to $3.39 per gallon. These materials are crucial for maintaining water quality and ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

In a notable shift, the board also discussed a revision regarding high grass and weed citations. After receiving community feedback, the commissioners decided to rescind the proposed delay on these citations. Instead, they plan to collaborate with local parks employees and community partners to promote pollination initiatives, potentially involving educational programs for schools. This decision reflects a commitment to community engagement and environmental stewardship.

The meeting concluded with the approval of a $9,986 grant from the Community Development Block Grant Program for a fence replacement project at King's Daughters and Sons, further demonstrating the city's focus on enhancing community facilities.

Overall, the outcomes of this meeting highlight the city’s ongoing efforts to improve public infrastructure and engage with residents on environmental initiatives, ensuring that Ashland continues to develop in a sustainable and community-oriented manner.