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Covering the Valley Since 1982
The City of Reading Council meeting on Tuesday, March 3 began with President of Council Cris Nesbitt turning the meeting over to Mayor Robert “Bo” Bemmes. Mayor Bemmes thanked the crowd who were in attendance for coming. He then introduced new Police Officer Doug Ferrell who came from the Lockland and Wyoming (most recent) Police Departments. Officer Ferrell was sworn in, wife Jennifer pinned on his badge.
Mayor Bemmes asked for Officer John LaGory to come forward and was given the oath and promoted to Lieutenant. His wife Maria pinned the new badge on.
Police Chief Scott Snow expressed his pleasure of having the two men in the department. The duo were also were provided congratulations by Mayor Bemmes and Jim Champlin.
Mayor Bemmes gave his report. On February 27 he and others from Reading attended the legislative breakfast held by the Municipal League. The talk was about the stimulus bill. They were told that $5.4 billion of the $8.2 billion will fill gaps in the state’s general fund over the next few years. Other money will go into Medicaid, grants, etc. This leaves $1.6 billion for infrastructure. Mayor Bemmes said not to expect much to go to local needs. He did state that Reading was applying for several projects.
On February 18 was the Business Roundtable meeting. The City’s major CEOs provided encouraging reports. Melvin Black of Duke Energy addressed the participants of the meeting. He informed all present about how the company plans in improving communications during emergencies.
Mayor Bemmes spoke about the Historical Society newsletter. There will be two programs, one on Thursday, March 5 and on Thursday, April 2. This year will mark the 100th consecutive Memorial Day Parade. The hope is to make it as special as possible.
Mayor Bemmes provided the Police and Fire Department reports. There have been three attempted burglaries. Two subjects were arrested in an attempt on Orchard Knoll. Citizens are asked to please call the Police Department if they see any suspicious behavior, not to delay. The new traffic car will begin its work on March 5 and will focus on traffic safety, auto accidents and parking complaints. Officers Dan Bressert and Bryan Shelley were given a Letter of Appreciation from the City of Blue Ash’s Police Department for assistance in apprehending two suspects wanted for a home invasion.
In the Fire Department report, Mayor Bemmes stated that the ISO (Insurance Services Office) was in to review the department and the Village of Arlington Heights in February. They reviewed areas like fire alarms, communications, department capabilities and water distribution. They anticipate that the report will drop to a 2 (currently a 3) and the Village of Arlington Heights could also see a drop as well (they are currently a 5).
The Fire Department has received approval for use of excessive funds from the FEMA
fitness grant. They have ordered a fire extinguisher training simulator which will
be used for public education and inservices. The Civil Service Commission will be
administering a test on March 21 to establish an eligibility list for part-
The annual Fire Department Banquet was held on February 21. Recognized were: Firefighter
of the Year (Paid on Call/Part-
Mayor Bemmes noted that regarding Exterior Maintenance in February they received 98 complaints; sent out 66 letters to inform property and business owners to clean up. They are working on improving a property near the Redwine property and also the Feed Mill.
The VYO (Valley Youth Organization) had a great basketball season. The VYO History Books are on sale, call City Hall or Bonnie Rack. They only cost $15.
Mayor Bemmes congratulated the Reading High School Wrestling Team, which has three qualifiers going to the state meet. Coach Dick Engel will be installed into the state’s Hall of Fame. The City will work on a resolution to honor him.
Mayor Bemmes spoke briefly about the field turf for the stadium. The City and schools are still on board. The City, however, will only remain involved if it does not cost any extra money.
Bob Boehner reported that he attended the Business Roundtable meeting on February 18 and Mike Viox stated that there will be a groundbreaking in April for the Redwine property. They hope to be in their building by October. The Chamber of Commerce meeting was held on February 19, Jim Stewart spoke about the success of the self defense seminar at the high school on February 17. Recently there have been reports of MSD or Water Works employees going to homes. The employees of these companies as well as the City of Reading do not show up without a call to them first. Please call the Police Department if you have suspicions about an employee, do not let them in your home without a proper identification. Mr. Boehner informed everyone that there will be legislation ready next week for the bond for the Redwine property. Regarding the Third Street Project, they are working on installing the storm water piping. The curbs will need to be reinstalled. They will also be running the street sweeper this week.
Mel Gertz stated he handed out copies of his February report. He also noted that income tax collections are up; payroll withholding taxes are running a little behind. Total taxes collected are ahead, but they are actually slightly behind as they have to refund an overpayment.
Jim Champlin updated everyone with the paving program. They should have the project’s specifications in a few weeks. He would like to see an earlier cycle. Mr. Champlin understands that the state budget should not have an affect on grant money. Reading’s gas aggregation program will be bundled in with other municipalities to achieve more favorable prices. Mr. Champlin announced a Utilities, Lands and Buildings Committee meeting for March 17 at 6:30 to look at the Reading Road area (planters, etc.). If Mr. Champlin does not get the information needed for the meeting, the meeting will be held at a later date.
Bob Ashbrock reminded everyone that there will be a public hearing for the text change in the Zoning Code. The Master Plan defines the strategy for the City’s goals. Mr. Ashbrock noted two good reinvestment projects in CVS and the Viox property developments. He has also seen personal reinvestments in private properties in the City. Mr. Ashbrock would like to see a type of pride in property program such as where signs are placed on the properties to acknowledge the work put into keeping them looking nice. He urged Council and Administration to come up with ideas to encourage reinvestment into properties.
Jim Pfennig brought to everyone’s attention the cost of keeping the streets safe this winter season. They spent close to $80,000 which does not include the extra payroll. These employees get called out late at night. The winter cold also causes increase in water main breaks.
Lee Roth asked about the Third Street Project. He asked if they heard from the PUCO about the Elizabeth Street railroad crossing. They have not heard from them yet, but the PUCO knows of the City’s desires. He was also told that there will be a more permanent barrier placed at the railroad crossing later.
Albert “Bud” Elmlinger announced that the City is currently accepting applications for pool workers. They advise all to apply now as they intend to start making selections soon. Signups at the pool will be held on Saturdays, May 2, 9 and 16 from 9:00 am until noon. The pool itself will open on May 30. Pool rates will remain the same. Mr. Elmlinger also announced the Concert Series. On Thursday, July 16 will be the US Air Force Band; on May 24 will be the Remains, on August 14 will be the Blue Birds and also on August 29 will be the Cincy Rockers. Mr. Elmlinger said that Recreation is working on readying the athletic fields for spring sports. Ken Nordin informed everyone that Reading has a great track record with their swim classes. The swim teams are always looking for new members.