By Linda Dillman
Staff Writer
Reconstruction of a bridge near the outskirts of Canal Winchester will result in the installation of a three-way stop at the intersection of Winchester-Lithopolis and Winchester roads.
Canal Winchester City Council approved an ordinance supporting the project by the Fairfield County Engineer’s office.
“There are some site issues,” said Public Service Director Matt Peoples. “The railing is high. There are some near misses and some pretty good speeds. It’s always been a confusing intersection. EMH&T felt the best course of action was a three-way stop at the end of the bridge. This is our approval to support their project.”
Other Canal Winchester news
•In committee discussion on June 16, held prior to the last regular meeting before council goes on a month-long recess in July, Peoples sought support for an ordinance approving the purchase of a 2015 Ford F-750 plow truck for the street department at a cost of approximately $130,000.
It replaces a 1993 truck that blew an engine and is beyond repair. The new truck is equipped with a stainless steel dump body, enhanced salt delivery and a pre-wetting system for road treatment during inclement weather.
“This would be a five-year lease purchase with the Huntington,” said Peoples. “We can fit the amount into the budget a lot better with a five year program. Trying to put $125,000 (for outright purchase) into our annual budget would be very difficult. The truck will also be used for leaf pick-up and other hauling as well. It’s a 20 to 22 week order to build the truck. We hope to get it in November.”
•Council approved a new four-year contract with the Fairfield County Sheriff that runs from Sept. 1, 2014 through Dec. 31, 2018. The cost for 2015 is $968,825. The contract also allows for annual increases with prior notification based on costs incurred by the sheriff’s office for personnel, retirement, worker’s compensation, training and equipment.
During each year of the agreement, the city is required to purchase one new vehicle at a cost not to exceed $24,000. All vehicles purchased by the city will only be used within city limits except when deemed necessary and the title will be transferred back to Canal Winchester when the vehicle is removed from the sheriff’s fleet.
•Mayor Mike Ebert said a ribbon cutting ceremony for the McDorman Auto Museum on East Waterloo Street is set for July 4 at noon and the grand opening will carry over into July 5.
“This really is a fantastic building with a lot of great antique cars, automobile memorabilia, signs, literature, gas pumps, and more all on display,” said Ebert.
