(Posted June 29, 2017)
By Sandi Latimer, Staff Writer
Leaders of many communities may envy Plain City Mayor Darrin Lane.
At a time when many areas are experiencing a drug problem that is turning into an epidemic, Lane raps his knuckles on the table.
“Knock on wood. We have not had a problem with drugs, but we are prepared,” he said during “Coffee with the Mayor” on June 22, an open meeting during which he talked with residents about a wide variety of topics, from drugs to business development.
Lane said his police officers have access to Narcan to revive people who overdose on drugs, but said, “They have yet to use it.”
He offered possible reasons why the small village that straddles Union and Madison counties isn’t suffering from drug issues like other areas are.
“Our police officers know most of the children, so they can keep an eye on them,” he said.
Some of those officers have many years of duty on the force and have known the youngsters since they were born.
“And they know the families,” he said.
Switching to economic issues, Lane said he is seeking to attract business and development to Plain City, but faces one big hurdle.
“I’ve been working for two years with council to put in water and sewer service in areas that would be attractive for major development,” he said.
Having such services will attract the development, the mayor believes.
“But council believes the water and sewer should be put in by the businesses and development,” he said. “I have businesses willing to come in but they want water and sewer services.”
Gabby Prince, a young mother with one child in her arms and expecting her second child, wanted to know about park space for little children.
“You do a good job of bringing people together for a one-time event,” said Prince who said she had recently moved back to her hometown. “You’ve got a younger community coming in.”
Lane promised Prince he would look into her request and discuss it with council and the park committee.
Lane holds “Coffee with the Mayor” at 9 a.m. the third Thursday of each month in his office, 213 S. Chillicothe St. For more information, call (614) 873-3527 or email dlane@plain-city.com.
