April 9, 2007 
7:30 p.m.

The regular meeting of the Village of Grand Rapids was held in the Town Hall. Mayor Keifer asked the Fiscal Officer to take roll call: Pam Sherwood (here), Louise Estep (here), Nancy Heyman (here), Linda Hall (here), John Berry (excused), and Carolyn Erdody (here).

Erdody made a motion, seconded by Heyman to suspend the reading and accept the March 26 minutes as submitted. Motion passed by voice vote.

The bills were presented. Sherwood made a motion, seconded by Erdody to pay the bills. Motion passed unanimously by roll call vote.

Mayor Keifer recognized Lisa Hatfield from the Otsego School Board. She asked Council if they were interested in the property at the Middle School. Ms. Hatfield stated she was present to gather information and take it back to the School Board. Mayor Keifer asked if the Board had received the letter from the Village. She said that the Superintendent responds on behalf of the Board. Joe Long stated he had responded to the letter sent. Mayor Keifer asked him to recap the letter because many did not recall receiving it.

Councilman Estep asked Hatfield and Long if the Middle School was going to be demolished or sold. Ms. Hatfield stated that they never specifically stated the building would be demolished. Currently, the Board is in discussion as to whether the building will be sold or demolished. Mayor Keifer stated that she specifically voted for the levy with the understanding that the building would be demolished and so did many others.

A discussion ensued where the Board stated if they auctioned it off, it would go to the highest "responsible party." When question on how they could guarantee that, they stated it would be difficult to do that. Administrator Hoffman gave figures from the Board's website stating the amount that will be collected from the levy passed to demolish the building. There was also discussion on the loss of income tax monies the Village would be receiving, due to the Middle School teachers working in Tontogany. There was discussion on previous comments made by the School Board that they would "give" the communities possession of the property once the schools were centralized.

Mr. Long stated the Township Trustees have expressed an interest to the School Board on what pieces/parts of the property would meet their needs. After much discussion, it was decided that Council needed to get a copy of Mr. Long's response letter and Administrator Hoffman will get the information he has gathered to Ms. Hatfield on the OSFC.

Hoffman stated that the School Board needs to put out some solid plans and their intent prior to the levy on the upcoming May ballot. Mayor Keifer asked them for definite ideas on plans for the building/property. She also asked if there was a base bid auction price. Mayor Keifer then asked that the Village be put on the agenda for the April 24 School Board Meeting.

Mayor Keifer recognized Pamela Butler, Wood County Health Commissioner. Ms. Butler explained the services they provide and handed out brochures. Mayor Keifer asked Ms. Butler the status of the house on Wapakoneta Road that has had two fires and is a safety hazard. Ms. Butler stated she will follow-up and give the Mayor a call to let her know if it is on the list to be demolished.

Mayor Keifer read a proclamation proclaiming May 25 as Poppy Day in the Village of Grand Rapids.

Administrator Hoffman presented his report. (A copy will be attached to the Fiscal Officer's minutes.)

Lieutenant Hillard stated they have been monitoring the speed on Route 65 and there has not been any excessive speeding.

A Committee of the Whole Meeting was scheduled on April 23 at 7 p.m. at the Town Hall.

Councilman Estep asked the status of the street light request to the Township for the Route 6 and Wapakoneta Road intersection. Councilman Erdody stated she attended the Township Meeting and they are looking into our request.

Councilman Sherwood formally thanked the Volunteer Fire Department for all that they do for the Village and Township.

With no further business to discuss, Erdody made a motion, seconded by Heyman to adjourn. Meeting adjourned.