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Council hears updates on waterline, sidewalk funding and grant reimbursements
Summary
Public comment raised questions about the waterline project's funding; city staff and the auditor clarified the waterline is a county project, ODOT awarded $600,000 for sidewalks, and the city awaits a second reimbursement related to a $900,000 grant that is being audited.
A Port Clinton resident asked whether recent federal funding cuts have affected the local water line project; city staff responded that the water line work is a county project and directed questions to the Ottawa County Sanitary Engineer's office.
Resident Tracy Bodi asked: "Is the water line project state or federal funding; has the funding been fully provided since the cuts by the Federal Government?" Mr. Colston replied that the water line project is the county’s and advised residents to contact the Sanitary Engineer’s office for details.
City officials also updated council on other infrastructure and grant matters. Mayor Snider and staff said Phase 1, Plan A of a local infrastructure project is complete and the contractor is addressing punch‑list items. The city reported receiving $600,000 from the Ohio Department of Transportation's pedestrian and bicycle program for sidewalks near Fulton, Jefferson and 10th–12th streets.
On an awarded $900,000 grant, Councilor Jerry Tarolli asked about the reimbursement status. Auditor Gabe Below said the city is waiting on the second reimbursement check and that American Forest has selected the city for an audit of that reimbursement. "We are waiting on the second reimbursement check," Below said, and cautioned council to be careful with federal funds because they can be revoked.
Mr. Below also confirmed the city has received $25,000 from the county sanitary engineers to cover replanting after tree removals related to the county's water project on E. Third Street and will coordinate with the Safety Service Director on eligible uses for those funds.
On traffic signals, Richard Morgan told council he had met with Chief Scott about several lights; Mr. Colston said signal‑timing studies can cost about $10,000 per light and that the Fremont Road and Portage signal would require a replacement control system to alter its timing. Colston said he would inquire with ODOT about timing criteria.
No formal votes were taken on the infrastructure items at the June 10 meeting; the items remain under staff review and pending further council action.
