(Posted Feb. 15, 2017)
By Amanda Amsel, Staff Writer
Mount Sterling village leaders are looking into designating a certain part of the downtown area as a business district.
“We need this so we can control traffic in this area,” said John Martin, village administrator, at the Feb. 13 village council meeting. “This will ensure the safety of everyone as they visit our local businesses.”
To create a business district, the village must determine the boundaries and take into account proximity to residential areas. The village plans to examine these factors in the coming weeks.
Martin also talked about the High Street and East Main Street visibility issue, saying that changes need to be made.
“We are looking at moving yellow lines, potentially moving trees and bushes, removing parking spaces and putting new signage up, warning drivers that the speed limit will be reduced ahead,” he said. “These changes will be in conjunction with the business district designation.”
In other business, council member Diane Spradlin once again asked Mayor Lowell Anderson if and when the vacant council seat would be filled
At a previous meeting, Anderson said the seat would not be filled; this time, his answer was less definitive.
“It is up to me if I want to fill this seat,” Anderson said. “I have not decided what I want to do.”
Currently, there are five members on village council, with one seat that has sat vacant for over a year.
Council addressed the replacement of the village’s fiscal officer, Cindy Miller. According to Anderson, Miller has extended her quit date to April 15. However, until she resigns, the village cannot replace her, he said.
“We do have four resumés, but until the seat is empty, I can’t do anything with them,” Anderson said. “I’m not sure if we will advertise for this position because when it is open, we already have some good applicants.”
It was noted that the Sterling Joint Ambulance District plans to put a renewal levy on the November ballot.
Council member Rebecca Burns reported that the village’s Fourth of July celebration is set for June 29-July 1. The event will include a laser light show, car show, parade and local vendors. The James Cotton Football Clinic will take place that same weekend.
