The Icon attend the February 1 Ada Village Council meeting using the remote option offered by the Village of Ada.

The meeting was chaired by Mayor David Retterer. The meeting packet is attached HERE.

OPEN FLOOR

Maria Santo, Ada resident and candidate for the position of judge on the Hardin County Common Pleas Court, detailed her qualifications for the position.

OLD BUSINESS

Council member Jeff Oestrich reported that EMS, the Police department, Ohio Northern University and Village council representatives met to further discuss transporting suicide risks to hospitals. A written agreement among the parties is being drafted.

NEW BUSINESS

Safety Committee member Jeff Oestrich presented:

The request to hire Hattie Dearth as a full time police officer was approved unanimously.

Personnel Committee member Bob Simmons presented:

- Request for Executive Session with no action at end of meeting; approved unanimously

- Recommendation to hire pool co-manager Jeffrey (Jacob) Bassitt; approved unanimously

- Recommendation to promote Mike Steele from CM2 to CM3 (construction and maintenance); this is the addition of a supervisory role; approved unanimously

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Fiscal officer Patty Navin provided council:

• 2021 annual report 
• 2021 Hinckle System report

Police Chief Michael Harnishfeger reported:

• The January 21 trailer fire was discovered by Sgt. John Iten who notified the occupant who was unaware of the danger. The occupant and two dogs were quickly removed from the trailer which became totally engulfed in flames.
• A McDonald’s customer threw a drink at a clerk. An officer delivered “disorderly conduct” summons for court.
• Fire on Gilbert St. has been ruled an accidental cooking fire; however, items recovered in the incident are still under investigation.
• Investigation of two sexual assault cases.
• An adult protective services case.
• Charges filed in a burglary case.

As Zoning Inspector, Harnishfeger reported:

• 312 Liberty St trailer was condemned by Hardin Co Health Dept.

Village Administrator Jamie Hall reported

• Reminder of automatic 2% increase in utility bills, which Isn’t keeping up with cost of living changes and inflation.
• Approaching winter storm: The village’s biggest concern is the loss of power. Generator backup is used at the water and sewer plant facilities, village offices and public works.
• Snow emergency: information is up on the Village website and sent by email alerts.
• An open clerk position is being advertised, including on the Icon. Applications are being accepted through February 14.

Legal Counsel Jane Napier provided

• Information about the process of negotiating employment agreements.

The next regular meeting of the Ada council is Tuesday, February 14. A link for online viewing will be provided before the event at https://www.adaoh.org/board-meeting/february-15-2022-630pm-meeting.