Columbiana council hires part‑time officer, clears Beer Fest permit and approves emergency grant application

The Columbiana City Council on Aug. 19 voted to hire Nicholas Bowen as a part‑time police officer, approved a motion to permit a Sept. 20 Beer Fest contingent on required permits and approvals, and passed an emergency resolution authorizing the city manager to apply for Omega Regional Transportation Planning Organization capital allocation funds for a proposed walking and biking trail between Columbiana and Leetonia.

The hiring motion to concur with City Manager Lance Willard and Police Chief Mark Edwards was moved and seconded and carried; Bowen then was sworn into office at the meeting. Jay Brothers, representing the Beer Fest organizers, told council the event is set for Sept. 20 at the Homestead and Firestone venue, will partner again with Project Playground and will run from about 4 to 8 p.m. Council approved the event "pending approval" of required permits and insurance, and members said the police department would provide security coordination.

In other action, council adopted Resolution 25‑R‑671 (emergency), authorizing…