Attica Police Dept. closing — for now

ATTICA — Village Councilman Ed Treft expressed appreciation to Police Chief Keith Turner for his service to the village during the meeting Thursday night. The department is temporarily closing after the police levy failed to pass in November. Turner relayed that a Small Police Department Association in Ohio is a possibility. A meeting is scheduled in Columbus to discuss participation fees and seeking grants to assist the departments. Health care costs are a concern and the departments is to consider forming a consortium to obtain health coverage for a better rate. Council is to decide whether it plans to place another police levy on the May ballot and the police committee is to verify the department's inventory before the end of the year. Resident Scott Doris said, "I blame community members for not coming to council meetings to be informed and supportive of the department." Turner replied, "I pray people come to future meetings if council decides to place a levy on the ballot to ask questions instead of listening to gossip." Turner also noted the village could not participate in the association with an inactive department. Fiscal officer Angela Depinet stated $1,001,442.70 is in all funds. During the previous meeting, copies of the 2019 tax budget were distributed to members for consideration. When the resolution for its passage was introduced as an emergency measure, it failed, with Councilman Kirk Stanfield opposed. He requested better prepared and accurate figures. Council members approved the transfer of $10,000 from the General Fund to the police fund to cover final expenses, waiving the three-reading rule. It was noted the 3-percent increase in water and sewer rates, according to ordinance, commences in January. Seven resumes have been received for the water/sewer worker position and personnel committee members are to interview four of the candidates. Council is to meet at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10.