Defiance City Council approves purchase, right‑of‑way and construction contracts in emergency readings

The Defiance City Council on Aug. 5 adopted four emergency ordinances approving a purchase of a blighted house, multiple right‑of‑way acquisitions for a roundabout project, a contract for a new sidewalk on Ayersville Avenue and a contract to replace an ageing waterline on State Route 281.

The measures were presented as emergency items to speed work on public‑safety and infrastructure needs and were approved by council members during the meeting. Council members also authorized two executive sessions under Ohio Revised Code to discuss public‑employee compensation and collective bargaining.

The most immediate item was the purchase of a deteriorated house at 734 Harrison. Mayor McKinnon said the house was found to be uninhabitable and that the occupants have been relocated to the city’s North Side. The city has a purchase agreement for $10,000. McKinnon said the administration plans to demolish the structure and market the vacant lot for redevelopment once utilities and other site issues are addressed. The mayor credited members of the fire division, the Humane Society and local social‑service staff for rescuing animals and assisting the residents; she thanked Brandon Case and Amy Simonis of Job and Family Services by name.

A second ordinance authorized acquisition of multiple parcels and easements needed for the Ralston Avenue roundabouts project. Administration staff told…