Citizens share concerns at council meeting

COSHOCTON – There were several community members who addressed Coshocton City Council at its March 23 meeting.

Doug Nagle was present to speak on behalf of the Coshocton County Career Center, which is once again trying to pass its permanent improvement levy.

The one mill, five year levy will be up before voters for the third time on Tuesday, May 5.

“We’ve been good stewards of our money,” Nagle said. “In 37 years we’ve never asked for a permanent improvement levy.”

The school, however, needs to make upgrades to continue producing graduates who can be competitive in their fields.

“We only lost by 12 votes last time,” Nagle said. “We need you to make sure you get out there and vote.”

Tina Dobson also addressed council with concerns about water issues for Hillsdale Drive residents.

Service Director Jerry Stenner said they haven’t forgotten about her and will address the issue as they can.

David Love expressed to council that he was totally taken by surprise with the new tax imposed on residents who live in the city, but work outside of it.

“I never knew about it and feel like it was snuck in on us,” he said. “I was shocked to find out I owe several hundred more in taxes than what I thought.”

Glenn Mishler explained to Love that the tax was a tough, but necessary decision that was well discussed.

“The city has been facing a loss of over $400,000 and we are forced to have a balanced budget,” Mishler said. “The issue was discussed openly in council and was reported on.”

Love told council that even his local tax preparer didn’t know about the change.

“I’m probably going to end up selling my house,” he said. “I like this city, but I feel like I’m being taxed everywhere I go. Thank you for hearing me out though. I do appreciate what you do and understand that it takes a lot to run a city.”

Sheriff Tim Rogers also spoke at the meeting. He informed council that he was going to start sitting in the corner behind them instead of in front of them.

“I’m sitting up here so I don’t have my back to the door,” Rogers said. “It’s just a tactical move to help me better protect the citizens that are here and council.”

He also shared that the new canine is working out well and already has helped locate drugs in the community.

“She doesn’t bark like Dingo did, but when she’s needed she is more than capable of doing her job,” Rogers said.

josie@coshoctoncountybeacon.com

Category: Government