GALION – During their recent meeting, Galion City Council approved a mutual aid contract with Jefferson Township of Crawford County. Galion Fire Chief Phil Jackson worked with the township trustees and the Galion city law director to craft the agreement. In other business, the council discussed vacating an alley and updating engineering services.
“If they need help then we can provide it and in turn if we need help they can provide it,” said Jackson. Galion also has mutual aid agreements with Springfield Township, Crestline and Bucyrus. Jackson noted that Crestline used to cover the area of Jefferson Township.
An alley vacation issue was brought to council. Residents in the area of South Boston Street are requesting that part of an alley no longer used be blocked off. Council members were unsure if the alley should be closed or remain open.
“We are closing too many alleys already,” said council woman Shirley Clark. “I’m concerned about safety.” Council voted to table the issue until more research can be done. All residents affected have signed off on the vacation and want council approval before they spent money on surveying and permits. The alley runs between 620 South Boston Street and 618 South Boston Street. The vacation will come to council again at its Oct. 14 meeting.
Council also approved an updated contract for engineering services for the last two phases of the electric upgrade project. Mayor Tom O’Leary stated that the original ordinance had been “flawed” and council needed to approve the rewritten one. The remainder of the project includes part of the Uptowne, several large industries and the final upgrade to the Dawsett Substation.
The first three phases of the electric upgrade project have been completed which included new lines, new and taller electric polls and tree trimming to create a more efficient electrical system throughout the city, reducing line loss and saving electric customers money.
