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Commissioners approve Bixel Two-Stage Ditch project with H2Ohio funding and 2% maintenance assessment
Summary
After a Bluffton final hearing, the Allen County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved Resolution #177-26 to build the Bixel Two-Stage Ditch using up to $563,605 in H2Ohio funds; the project (estimated $479,287.88) will carry a 2% watershed maintenance assessment.
The Allen County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously March 17 to approve Resolution #177-26, authorizing the Bixel Two-Stage Ditch project to proceed with H2Ohio grant funding and a maintenance assessment on the watershed.
At a final public hearing in Bluffton, Nathan Davis outlined the petition-ditch process under Ohio Revised Code Sections 6131 and 6137 and described the proposed project’s scope: the drainage work would affect 4,796 acres across 337 parcels. County staff estimated construction costs at $479,287.88, below the maximum H2Ohio grant amount of $563,605; staff said interest and bond-counsel fees would also be eligible for grant reimbursement. A condition of the grant requires the completed work be placed on county maintenance.
During public testimony several attendees said broader drainage concerns extend beyond the immediate project area; County Engineer staff explained how other projects might be initiated if needed. Commissioner Cory Noonan summarized the hearing, explained how maintenance assessments are calculated and moved to approve Resolution #177-26. Commissioner Beth Seibert seconded the motion; the roll call vote was unanimous.
The resolution directs county staff to proceed with the project using H2Ohio funds, and establishes a 2% maintenance assessment against the watershed to fund ongoing upkeep. The board did not identify a timetable for construction in the hearing record; appeals and the statutory appeals process under ORC were reviewed during the meeting.
