(Posted April 7, 2016)
By Sandi Latimer, Staff Writer
West Jefferson Mayor Ray Martin and council president Steve Johnston said they would rather deliver congratulatory remarks to the cheerleaders than perform such heroics as the girls do.
This year’s West Jefferson High School competition cheer squad was recognized at the April 4 council meeting for winning the Division IV state competition.
“Thanks for your efforts,” Martin said. “It’s hard work, and we wanted to show you how proud we are that you represent the village.”
“Congratulations for a job well done,” said Johnston, noting West Jefferson has won the state title six of the last nine years.
Martin presented the squad with a certificate of appreciation.
In other action, council approved an ordinance that establishes a commercial building department for the village and an accompanying fee schedule. Council also adopted a residential building fee schedule.
Both had been up for a public hearing. They were approved without comment.
Also approved was a resolution allowing for West Jefferson to join the 2017 Ohio Municipal League workers’ compensation village group rating plan. Johnston said the deadline for approval is May 1.
The next regular council meeting is at 7 p.m. April 18.
Charter Review Public Input
The West Jefferson Charter Review Commission launched a website to provide public access during the charter review process. Every five years, a commission is convened to review the village charter and recommend any needed changes. The panel of seven village residents is appointed by the mayor and confirmed by council.
“Our meetings are open to the public, so the commission members voted to make sure the public is made aware of our meeting dates and our findings via a website,” said Justin Barnhart, chairman. “This process will take several months. Feedback from the community will be the best way to determine changes that are needed to the village charter.”
The commission’s recommendation will be up for a vote on the November election ballot. Residents are encouraged to visit wjcharterreview.weebly.com to learn more.
The commission held its first meeting on March 8. Upcoming meetings are scheduled as follows:
- April 19—article 4-6
- May 3—articles 7, 7a, 8
- May 10—article 8-10
- May 31—articles 12-17
Additional meetings may be scheduled. All meetings take place in the lower meeting room at village hall on Main Street. (enter through the west door).
