Athens city council members met Tuesday to discuss law enforcement, construction, family planning programs and tax levies.
Members voted to pass an ordinance creating a mutual aid agreement between Athens and Hocking College. The ordinance was introduced by council member Kent Butler, D-1st Ward, and he said the agreement will be beneficial in moments of disaster.
Sign replacements on U.S. state routes 33 and 50 and State Route 682 were also approved. ODOT was looking to change current verbiage of the signs to make lane changes and exits less confusing, Kotses said.
“This is something ODOT can do to improve the flow of traffic and it’s entirely free to the city of Athens,” Councilman Peter Kotses, D-at large, said.
Second reading ordinances included the passing of a proposition from Kotses authorizing the reconstruction of the bridge located on Richland Avenue. The bridge was built in 1935 and has a load limit 65 percent of the legal Ohio load limit. Construction is planned to begin in May, Kotses said.
The resolution accepting the rate of taxes as determined by the City Budget Commission also passed. A total of $954 thousand was collected in taxes last year from Athens County.
“This money is necessary to maintain good streets and bridges in Athens,” Councilman Jeff Risner, D-2nd Ward, said.
The resolution to continue city funding for the Athens Planned Parenthood will be sent to state representatives. Councilwoman Sarah Grace, D-At Large, said that the center has provided more than 283 pregnancy test, 242 HIV tests, 115 cancer screenings and 2637 STD tests.
“Something we’ve lost in our area over time is healthcare in general. It’s not only for our well being, but economics too,” Chris Fahl, D-4th Ward, said. “Being able to provide needed healthcare is a win win.”
