Serving These Communities
Covering the Heart of Hamilton County Since 1983
The Village Council of Arlington Heights met on Monday, August 27. Mayor Joseph Harper spoke about the Hamilton County program that allows residents to apply for low interest loans for home improvements. A resident called and stated that the Village is not a part of this program. Mayor Harper asked to have the matter put into Rita Surber’s committee to get more information about being a part of the program. Mayor Harper also sent condolences to the Maysong and Ballou families.
A small discussion was held about a letter the Mayor received. A pastor wanted to know if he could hold a Bible study at Town Hall once a week. This would not be a large group. Council was reminded that if they open up Town Hall to one group, they would have to allow all groups. They were also told that fees are normally charged to groups who use Town Hall. They would have to rent the hall like they do to other groups. Council is still deciding what to do.
Mayor Harper indicated that Mayor’s Court totals for July was $15,799.
Steve Surber noted that the balance in the General Fund was $262,715.56 at the end of July. He also noted that there were one resolution and two ordinances on the agenda.
Meroline McLemore stated that the Senior Citizens met and enjoyed snacks and had a great time. Last week the Seniors enjoyed a buffet meal. Ms. McLemore encouraged more seniors to come and join the fun.
Cindy Brock gave the Public Health and Safety Committee report. She updated everyone of the Fire and Police Department’s reports. Fire Prevention Week will be held October 7 through 14. The new unit is up and operational. Auxiliary Police Officer James Sheeler resigned. He went to the Lockland Police Department.
Bill Muhlenpoh asked about the painting of the block tile downstairs in the hallways. Ms. Surber recommended cleaning the tile and painting the wall above the tile. They could refresh the areas where needed. Mr. Surber agreed. Paint the upper section and then do floor tiles afterwards.
Gary Green reported that he spoke with Jeff McLemore about the streets and sidewalks. Blanche is done. Arlington is almost done. Carthage and Station are done. Street poles are done on the east side of the railroad tracks. Mr. McLemore is having problems getting the other side done as there are bees that are hampering the work.
John Scott asked if the NIC (National Inspection Corporation) was making any headway with code enforcement. Mr. Surber said that there are permits being asked for to get work done. Some people are responding, some are not. Mr. Surber will get a report from NIC and get back to Mr. Scott. Mayor Harper indicated that some people are waiting until they get notification about high grass before they do something about it. He feels that one warning is more than enough. Mr. Green stated that City of Cincinnati puts a notice on the door (of the offending home) and if the grass is mowed, then the offender gets a reduction in the fine. Mayor Harper expressed his concern about a property on Arlington Avenue that has high grass and a failing garage. Mr. Surber will check into the matter.
Ms. Surber reminded everyone about the Neighbor to Neighbor “Getting to Know You Picnic.” It is coming up in September. She believes it will be held in Evendale this year.
Council passed its only resolution on the agenda (increase in Village’s employee
health care plan). They also passed the two ordinances: allow the Mayor to contract
with Robert Davis, CPA to help with the Village’s audits and reports and the ordinance
to regulate animals in the Village. Law Director Michelle Wenker said that there
was a problem with a lady feeding cats. The person can now be fined $100 per cat
she feeds. The ordinance allows the Police Department to help with the cat problem.
A lady from Save Our Strays stated that it is best to capture the cats, spay or neuter
them and then return them to the same area. (Cats are territorial.) This will prevent
new, unspayed cats from coming into the area. There are other things residents can
use to keep cats out of their yards such as a noise maker that only cats can hear
or items you can spray on your yard. When not fixed, cats can have three litters
per summer. Studies say you should trap, spay or neuter and then return the cat to
the same area is the best solution. Anyone who wants to learn more can call the
lady (Lynn) at 489-
After approving to pay the bills, Council listened to people from the audience. Mrs. Hoerst thanked Mr. McLemore for his work watering all the flowers in the Village. She thinks someone is helping water plants. One planter was filled with water even though it shouldn’t have been.
A gentleman spoke about the office complex being built at the entrance into Arlington Heights. He noted that in 30 days the building’s shell should be complete. The parking lot should be finished then too. Then they will begin landscaping and completing the inside of the building. There has been a lot of interest in leasing office space. One company from Queensgate (with 25 employees) has shown they are interested. Another three or four prospects are interested as well.
A man came in at the end of the meeting to share his information about Hamilton County’s low interest loan program to improve homes and businesses. He passed out brochures to Council and Administration. The county program is to help buildings be more weather efficient through windows, insulation, doors, etc. Mr. Surber would like to have someone from the program come out and speak to Council about the program.
Mr. Scott noted his concern with the sign on Clark Road just before the entry into the new Sts. Peter and Paul Academy. The sign is not very visible. He wondered if the word “School” could be added to the highway. Mayor Harper will check into.
A lady indicated that the community yard sale is still on for September 14, 15 and 16. Information will be added to the Village’s newsletter and on the sign in front of Town Hall.