City Council passed a first reading to authorize 2017 Freese grant projects during its March 14 meeting. Ord. 2017-14 contained three proposed projects: tennis court repairs at $139,137, installing a restroom at Amann Reservoir for $60,000, and starting block upgrades at the Galion YMCA pool for $5,250.
The Freese Grant Advisory Board will hold a special meeting Thursday to get clarification on an additional application. A first reading for the legislation passed unanimously.
In a related matter, Ord. 2017-11 amended rules for the distribution of Freese Funds. The amendment removes the requirement for the City of Galion to provide a 25 percent match for projects. All other applicants (Galion City Schools and local non-profits) would still be required to provide a 25 percent match. The third reading passed 6-1 with Councilwoman Susan Bean dissenting.
Ord. 2017-15 updated rental fees for city-owned facilities:
East Park Cabin - remove the deposit requirement and keep the charge at $55.
Amann Shelter – set the fee at $55.
Splash Park – regular hours of operation are 12-5 p.m. Rentals will be available from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., and 5-7 p.m. $100 for two hours.
Mayor Tom O’Leary noted the city will make improvements to the cabin this year, including adding a sink and counter. The first reading passed unanimously.
Ord. 2017-10 authorized an agreement with the Galion YMCA to operate the Heise Pool during the summer season. The YMCA will hire, train, pay and supervise lifeguards and other staff necessary for pool operations and its concession facility. All revenue received by the YMCA for pool passes and daily admissions is applied directly to the fees charged by the YMCA for the operation and management. At the end of the season, the city reimburses the YMCA for any unrecovered costs. The third reading passed unanimously.
Ord. 2017-13 amended 2017 appropriations to transfer $4,000 to the Galion Police Department budget for law enforcement training. It also appropriated $9,000 for the airport to replace outdated software. This item passed unanimously as an emergency.
Res. 2017-6 approved a then and now certificate for $36,449. This covers electric service at the South Street Commerce Center. This item passed unanimously as an emergency.