Street condition survey reviewed

By Alec Keller

The Ada Council held a regular meeting on the evening of Tuesday, February 17 with all members present and Mayor Dave Retterer presiding. No ordinances or resolutions were on the agenda. The meeting packet is HERE.

PUBLIC COMMENT
During the public comment portion of the meeting, Ada Resident Doyle Long relayed concerns about traffic safety. One concern was the need for more designated crosswalks, especially at intersections and near the Ohio Northern University campus.

“Students come here, they’re used to living in other areas,” Doyle said. “They have to adapt to Ada. But still, in many parts of the country where they come from, its easy for them to approach traffic and people give them the courtesy to stop and cross. But, I’d like to give the opportunity to students to be able to cross safely.”

NEW BUSINESS
Councilman Xander Wells responded with the idea of adding intermittent crosswalks on Main Street away from stop lights. Councilwoman Sheila Coressel and Police Chief Alec Cooper stated that the Village may need to consult with the Ohio Department of Transportation for these concerns, because Main St. is also State Route 235.

In other new business, Council President Jason Campbell notified council that he was recently named to the Ada Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. He added that he will act as a liaison for the board and council.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Safety
Council member Sheila Coressel reported that the Perry Township Fire Department requested a donation from the Ada Police Department of a used siren box that was removed from a retired police cruiser. Police Chief Alec Cooper mentioned that it is outdated, of little value and is not being used by the department. After some discussion, Council asked legal counselor Jane Napier to review the donation policies before approval of the donation.

Streets
Council member Lucas Rowe reported on a survey completed last fall, which shows most village streets rated between 10-8 or 7-5 and are considered in good condition and not in immediate need of repair.

Three streets, such as Dobbins, a portion of South Gilbert and a section of South Simon received ratings between 4-3, indicating areas that will require attention.

Rowe asked Village Administrator Amanda Sears about the timeline for addressing those streets. Sears said Dobbins and South Gilbert are included in this year’s maintenance plans, while South Simon St. is not expected to be scheduled until next year.

Rowe also pointed out several “red” areas highlighted in the report, including Lansing Lane and Kingswood Drive. He said the smaller alley sections should be maintained to the same standard as other village streets. “We should try to hold that up to the same standard as the other ones,” Rowe said.

Sears said the village can review those areas for potential improvements, though weather conditions will delay much of the work until spring.

VILLAGE ADMINISTRATOR
In her administrator’s report, Sears said the village’s steering committee will soon begin its strategic planning process and plans to present an overview to council at the March 17 meeting.

Sears also addressed questions regarding the demolition and cleanup of buildings on Main Street damaged by the fire in January. She said there is no significant update at this time. She added the village will be putting up additional caution tape and barricades, and will also be taking a street sweeper down Main Street on Friday. She noted that for safety reasons, the sidewalk will remain closed until the building is cleaned.

Council adjourned at 7:58.

The next regular meeting of council is on Tuesday, March 3 at 6:30 p.m.