WELLMAN

When a residential property falls into disrepair, neighbors file a complaint with the city, and the property owner fails to provide the city with an action plan as requested, what is a city to do? That is a question that vexed the Wellman City Council at their regular meeting Monday night.

Although the agenda item was ultimately tabled pending an additional attempt to reach out to the homeowner, the issue elicited much discussion.

The city’s code was designed to address abandoned properties so that they could be returned to active residences; putting pressure on homeowners to the point of losing their homes was not the objective. However, because of the complaint filed and the homeowner’s inaction in the present situation, the city now must decide if it will start filing municipal infractions against the homeowner, which could involve fines of up to $750-1000 a day, or choose not to enforce the code, which sets a precedent that could become a future problem.

“You’re in a catch-22,” a council member acknowledged.

The council approved a plan for placing speed signs along Highway 22 through town at their Aug. 19 meeting, which most notably would create a school zone in front of the high school, where flashing signs would alert drivers to a 35-mph speed limit during school hours. The speed limit in this area is currently 45-mph.

The council approved a 3-year lease renewal for Sunrise Child Care, which operates out of the city-owned Parkside community center. The $1/year lease will no longer contain a provision allowing Sunrise the right of first refusal should Jet Physical Therapy vacate their space; the city prefers to keep that space income-producing.

Sunrise Child Care will continue to pursue its goals of increasing staff, increasing staff pay, and fundraising as a nonprofit. The council expressed appreciation for the service, as it helps with the stability of the city and makes it possible for residents to work in surrounding cities.

The council approved a payment of $20,587 to Kevin’s Concrete LLC for additional work done on 13th Street.

The council set seven public hearings for Monday, Sept. 3 for changes to city codes that are the result of changes in state legislation. The codes pertain to bond requirements, meeting electronically, the operating budget, pedestrian rights-of-way, the publication of minutes, sidewalk liability, and adult establishments.

The Wellman City Council will next meet on Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall. Note the change of day due to Labor Day.