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Lyme Township trustee raises concerns about fiber installation; commissioners discuss health department oversight
Summary
During public comment, Lyme Township Trustee Roger Hunker criticized recent fiber-optic installation practices and urged oversight; County Engineer said county roads require permits and the Engineer’s Office enforces compliance. Commissioner Tom Dunlap called for review of the Huron County Health Department by the General Health District Council, citing frequent complaints and board turnover.
At the Feb. 17 Huron County Commissioners meeting, Lyme Township Trustee Roger Hunker used the public-comment period to criticize a county fiber-optic project and urge more local oversight.
"They were supposed to be hooking up 5,000 homes and there was nothing but trouble," Hunker said, and he argued contractors have placed cable through ditches and road tiles. Commissioner Harry Brady suggested the Information Technology lead, Mr. Reidy, provide an update at a future meeting.
Huron County Engineer Lee Tansey responded that county roads require permits and that the Engineer’s Office monitors compliance. "They are permitted the same as any other utility... If it doesn't match the permit we have them rip them out and replace them," Tansey said, adding that townships are responsible for their own roads and that the Engineer’s Office advises townships to use the county permitting process.
In commissioner reports, Harry Brady requested a future executive session concerning purchase and sale of public property. Commissioner Tom Dunlap urged the DAC to contact the General Health District Council to review complaints about the Huron County Health Department, saying the county has experienced turnover on the health board and that he receives "five complaints a week." Dunlap said he has spoken with State Representative Deeter about possible restructuring and suggested advertising for new health-board appointees to attract different candidates. Commissioner Morgan added that a contractor who works in 22 counties described Huron County as "the worst to work in," a complaint Dunlap said underscores local frustration.
The board entered and later ended an executive session under ORC 121.22(G)(2) with no action taken.
