Decatur council approves $19,816 in façade grants, proclaims April Child Abuse Prevention Month and tables two ordinances

The City of Decatur Common Council on March 17 approved $19,816 in façade grant awards, proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month and postponed action on two ordinances until its April 7 meeting.

Cindy Thieme of SAFE (Support All Families Every Day) described April events including an April 8 courthouse address at noon, the placement of blue pinwheels to show support for children and families, and a free carnival April 18 at the Adams County Fairgrounds. Mayor Rickord presented a proclamation declaring April Child Abuse Prevention Month for the city.

Council moved through several ordinance items tied to recent state and local policy changes. Council discussed a state law change affecting internal controls training (the modification referenced rules established in 2016 and includes a 30-minute video training component). Ordinance 2026-4, which would amend the City of Decatur code regarding internal control standards and procedures, was read by short title, passed on its first reading by a 5-0 roll-call vote, and then tabled to the April 7 meeting for further consideration.

The council also introduced Ordinance 2026-5, proposing changes to concrete disposal fees at the Elm Street Public Works Building. That ordinance was read by short title, passed first reading on a 5-0 roll call and then was tabled to April 7.

Economic development actions included approval of façade grant awards recommended by Main Street. Community Coordinator Jamie Gephart recommended funding four projects totaling $19,816: Adams County Museum ($201), Prestige Reality ($10,000), Sorinna’s Bakery ($1,000) and ABC Rental Properties ($8,615). Councilor Tyler Fullenkamp moved to fund the program as recommended; the motion was adopted.

Department heads gave routine reports. Parks Superintendent Cara Gerber said new trail markers were installed on the Rivergreenway Trail and crews were cleaning up after a storm. Police Chief Kevin Gerber said Trevor Newman was sworn in Monday as the city’s newest patrolman. Fire Chief Jeff Sheets warned residents not to place limbs and branches in front of fire hydrants, saying that could impede firefighters. "Please do not place limbs and branches in front of a fire hydrant," Sheets said. He also said a new fire truck is in process and announced Fire Ops 101 on Sept. 26.

Building and Zoning Superintendent Curt Witte reminded residents that open burning is banned except for natural wood and that building materials should not be burned; fires should be in a fire ring or fire pit. Wastewater Superintendent Karey Fuelling asked residents not to flush wipes labeled as flushable because they cause clogs. Community Coordinator Jamie Gephart also announced a new "Ask Decatur Direct" feature on the city website that uses artificial intelligence to answer city-related questions, and noted a Bellmont High School–led beautification program offering matching funds up to $500 with an April 3 application deadline.

Several council members and attendees reiterated the importance of keeping the Court House located in the City of Decatur; the discussion did not result in formal action at this meeting. Near the meeting's close Mayor Rickord thanked John Kintz for assisting when the mayor began choking.

On procedural business, Councilor Matt Dyer moved to adopt the March 3 minutes as emailed and the motion carried. Councilor Scott Murray moved to pay the claims presented and that motion was adopted. Councilor Dyer moved to adjourn; Councilor Abby Wilder seconded, and the meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m. The council will reconvene on April 7, 2026, when the tabled ordinances and a scheduled public hearing at 7 p.m. will be considered.