At their regular meeting Monday, August 21, the Wellman City Council considered issues at the skating rink, finalized a setback ordinance and air conditioner purchase, and tabled splash pad and demolition action.

Recreation Manager Brenda Reasor brought before the council three issues regarding the city-owned Wellman Skating Rink.  First, she proposed the purchase of about 56 pairs of roller skates from a Fairfield skate shop that is going out of business, which she would then sell to customers at the skating rink.  The council approved up to $2500 for the purchase of skates, although Reasor admitted the skate shop owner may not accept her purchase offer.  

Second, Reasor suggested the city change how the skating rink is rented for parties.  Instead of renting the entire rink starting at $200 for two hours, she proposed renting half of the facility starting at $250, so two parties could each occupy a portion of the space at once.  

The council debated this idea, ultimately applauding Reasor’s efforts to increase revenue, but electing not to change the way the skating rink is rented.  The city administrator and several council members stated that the skating rink’s chief function is community service and a way to “give back.”

Finally, Reasor lamented the end of alcohol consumption at the skating rink on adult nights.  From 7-11 p.m. on the third Friday of each month, patrons had been able to BYOB to the adults-only hours, but the city’s insurance issuer said this was not an insurable risk.  Alternative insurance could not be found.  Adult nights will continue, albeit dry.  

Other council action

The council passed the second and final reading of Ord. No. 274, which concerns setbacks for the M-1 (Light Industrial) District.  The amendment essentially eliminates rear setback requirements for commercial properties that abut other commercial properties.

The council approved the purchase of an LG air conditioning unit, at a cost of $7800, for the water plant from J&S Plumbing, Heating, A/C.  The plant had been going through window air conditioning units fairly quickly and the Public Works department urged a more permanent solution.

Action was tabled for two agenda items: the first, regarding an estimate for water and sewer installation for the splash pad the city intends to add to North Park, was set aside because there is still some debate over what size waterline is needed. 

The second concerns the potential establishment of a residential demolition program.  The city is considering providing funds to owners of blighted properties to help them with demolition costs; however, they are not sure how to construct such a program.  Other cities offer a fixed amount of funds per property, forgivable grants if a property owner rebuilds in a set period of time, or loans.  The council wants to see failing structures removed and new homes built on the empty lots, but they are uncertain how best to encourage and incentivize such action.  They agreed more research is needed before moving forward with such a program. 

Open council seats

The terms of three council members will end this year, those of Anthony Evans, Aaron Fleming, and Angela Stutzman.  The city understands that only Stutzman is seeking reelection.  Candidates can begin filing election papers for the open seats on August 28; the deadline for filing is September 21.  The three city council seats will be determined in the November 7 election.

The Wellman City Council will next meet on Tuesday, September 5 at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.