South Bloomfield officials outline US23 paving timeline, Sycamore Point updates and administrator succession plans

Village Administrator Joe Allen told the South Bloomfield council at its April 20 meeting that paving on US23 is scheduled to start on June 29, 2026, and that he currently assumes the work will be done during daytime hours though final scheduling has not been confirmed.

Allen also said the weather siren installation is scheduled for the coming Friday. He reported that work on the Sycamore Point section of Clearwater Drive has started. When residents asked about utilities, Allen told the council that existing wells can handle Sycamore Point and that the current sewer plant has adequate capacity to serve the new subdivision.

During public comment resident Philip Cleary asked whether the alley behind the Speedway could be converted to one-way southbound to ease congestion; the council did not take immediate action and the issue was recorded for consideration. Resident Randy Rensko inquired specifically about the need for an additional well and sewer capacity; Allen responded that neither an extra well nor an upgrade to the plant is required for Sycamore Point under current plans.

Allen also said he plans to retire in three years and would like to have his replacement hired by January 2028 so he can train the new administrator; Mayor Aaron Thomas said he will circulate related materials after the next council meeting. The council noted upcoming dates for community events and municipal business, including open enrollment for employee benefits in May and a town hall set for May 6.

Councilmember Amber Murphy reported about 70 people attended the recent Spring Fling and outlined planned outdoor movie nights and an Oct. 23 Halloween showing; Lisa McDorman said Food Truck Friday will start May 8 and asked staff about flyer distribution. The meeting concluded with approval to pay bills and adjournment at 6:40 p.m.