Ashtabula, Ohio Development News
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Regular Council Meeting - Media
Published: Jul 20, 2026
City Addresses Homelessness, Loan Practices, and Resident Quality of Life Initiatives
The meeting included a discussion about the homeless situation in Ashtabula, with a police report from a few months prior indicating a decrease in the number of homeless individuals encountered. However, police remain busy working with various groups. In a separate citizen inquiry, the city manager clarified that the $23 million loan for wastewater treatment plant improvements does not mean the city lacks money but is a standard practice for enterprise funds to manage cash flow and capital projects. Such loans allow the city to undertake necessary infrastructure upgrades without expending all available cash reserves at once. The city also has other loans, such as for fire trucks. Regarding improving citizens' quality of life, the city highlighted its police, fire, and public works departments' efforts, and emphasized the importance of resident cooperation in maintaining neighborhoods. The presence of numerous human service organizations (e.g., Catholic Charities, Community Action) and school programs was noted as a significant support system for residents.
Debate Arises Over Committee Assignment Procedures: Call for Consistent Process
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a discussion initiated by Councillor Holman regarding the procedure for assigning counselors to committees. Councillor Holman advocated for a consistent, standard procedure based on criteria such as experience, background, availability, and education, rather than solely the president's discretion. Council President Roscovitz explained that standing committees have traditionally been appointed informally, with input sought from council members and approved by a majority vote, as per council rules. He acknowledged that personal availability and sometimes direct requests play a role. The discussion highlighted the informal nature of past appointments and the desire for a more structured process. Rules of Council Rule 16, Part 1A, was cited, stating standing committees shall be appointed with input from each member of council and a simple majority approval.
City Approves $23 Million Loan Application for Wastewater Facility Upgrades
The city council discussed and approved an ordinance authorizing the city manager to apply for, accept, and enter into a water pollution loan fund agreement for the planning, design, and construction of wastewater facilities. Fund 504 was designated as the repayment source. The loan, estimated at $23 million, is necessary to meet an August deadline for application, otherwise, the next opportunity would be in December. The project includes upgrades such as a redundant centrifuge, removal of an old press belt, new centrifuge controls, digester lid replacement, and cleaning work on admin buildings and tanks. Aeration tanks, grit removal improvements, a SCADA system, chemical feed improvements, and fleet vehicle acquisitions are not included. The completion date is set for 2029, with the first payment not due until 2030. Bids will be sought, and the loan amount will be adjusted accordingly.
Police Department Faces Staffing Shortages Amidst High Call Volume; Fire Department Sees Increased Activity
The Safety Forces committee reported on the high volume of calls for the police department, with over 1,800 calls in June, attributed to the summer season. There were 51 adult traffic arrests. The department is considering a new targeted traffic unit of six officers to focus on problem areas, despite currently being short-staffed with three officers on injured leave, plus retirements and departures. Fireworks enforcement over the 4th of July holiday was significantly improved, resulting in 18 criminal charges and substantial seizures. Approximately 20 golf cart permits have been issued with no citations. The civil service entrance exam for police officer candidates is scheduled for late July with only two applicants received so far. For the fire department, call volume is at an all-time high, with ambulance responses and revenue trending upward, though fire incidents are slightly down. Nine candidates passed the physical agility test for firefighter positions, with four considered strong prospects. Two promotions are planned: a lieutenant to captain and an engineer to lieutenant. A radar speed sign has been installed on Bridge Street, and another on West Avenue is movable. The intersection of East 24th Street and Harbor Avenue has been reconfigured, requiring a full stop for southbound traffic turning westbound instead of a yield, as per code enforcement.
Stricter Penalties for Tobacco and Vaping Sales to Minors Approved
Ordinances were introduced regarding the sale of tobacco and vaping products to individuals under 21. Ordinance 2026-134 repeals the existing chapter 761.99 and introduces new fines and license suspension criteria, while Ordinance 2026-135 adopts the new chapter. The new rules primarily concern retailers, imposing stricter penalties for selling to minors, including license suspension for up to a year on the fourth offense. The age limit is 21 and includes vaping products. The Health Board recommended these changes, aiming to curb underage sales which are noted as high in Ohio. Secret shoppers will audit establishments. The ordinances passed with a 6-0 vote and will take effect September 1st after a second reading on August 3rd.
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