Council authorizes appropriation proceeding to secure parcel blocking Log Pond Run bridge repair

The Newark City Council adopted Ordinance 25-32, authorizing appropriation of a portion of Outlot 5 to clear a title issue that is delaying replacement of a deficient bridge on Riverside Drive over Log Pond Run. The ordinance names the property as part of the Simpson Foundry and Engineering Company plat and cites recorded deed references.

Council Member Rath moved to adopt the ordinance; a second was recorded. During discussion, the director explained the parcel is a very small piece of property that has not had a living owner recorded for some time and that the unresolved title issue was holding up the bridge repair project. The ordinance authorizes the director of law to proceed with a complaint for appropriation in the Lincoln County Court of Common Pleas and declares an emergency.

A roll-call vote followed and the ordinance passed. The measure is designed to clear title or secure the needed real estate interest so the city can proceed with replacement of the deficient bridge that provides access to the Owens Corning manufacturing plant. The meeting record did not include appraised values, acquisition cost estimates, or a timeline for the court action.

No amendments or alternative remedies were recorded during the council discussion at the meeting.