OTTOVILLE — Economic development often demands the attention of any municipality’s leaders. Such was the case at an otherwise light meeting Wednesday as the village council met here in its first regular session of the year.
Martin Kuhlman of the Port Authority of Northwest Ohio delivered a resolution the organization drew up and highlighted the benefits of membership for Ottoville.
There is no fee to join and the village can drop its membership at any time. Council will also have voting privileges within the port, which can provide funding options for the village.
Kuhlman offered the example that if the village wished to purchase land, the port authority can purchase the land without certain “red tape” the village might otherwise go through with the state. The village can use land and make payments to the port authority.
“I think this is something we need to do,” Mayor Ron Miller told the body.
Pending changes to the resolution to tailor it to the village, it passed unanimously.
In other business, Police Chief Jay Herrick requested a cabinet for storing evidence, a portable breathalyzer, color printer and software for processing paperwork that will enable the department to acquire new computers. Membership will cost $350 per month and off-site storing of its electronic information. Approval was granted by council.
Other requests remain under consideration, including Herrick’s interest in getting a taser. A representative of the Lima Police Department will be asked to deliver a presentation to council as it considers the chief’s request.