Financial Year End Review

Bayless Street Rehabilitation















Lin Kar Rehabilitation



November 2009
11/23/2009

As the year comes to a close, the office is busy finalizing paperwork to close out the books. Over the last two years, our local government has come a long way to balance the budget and meet several State and Federal mandates. Though it has been a rough road, and many hard decisions were made, I believe we, as a community, are in a much better financial standing today, than a year ago. Much of our Long Term Debt, is now guaranteed with payments that will not increase the regular utility invoice. All of our OEPA, State Mandated new debt, for the Wastewater Plant Upgrade, is guaranteed without an increase in the regular monthly invoice.
In 2010, I hope to keep the community better informed with the finances. This month, Kim Walker has prepared a comparative Standing from the last two years. The long term debt has increased due to the Wastewater Plant upgrade. Over all expenditures have gone down, and fund balances have slowly increased. It is important to take note that fund monies should not, and some explicitly cannot be used for uses other than what they are specifically designated for.
Below is an itemized list of Long Term Debt. The Majority of it is for our Utility Upgrades.
VILLAGE LONG TERM DEBT
AS 12/31/08

Loan 1372 OWDA7/1/2014 311,877.43
Loan 2776 OWDA7/1/2014 313,198.72
Loan 3037 OWDA7/1/2019 444,137.20
Loan 3038 OWDA7/1/2019 11,903.90
Loan 4982 OWDA 1/1/2030 479,299.05
Loan CO18D OPWC1/1/23 70,230.10
Loan COO5K/COO6K 114,500.00
Loan CT42L/CT43L 26,000.00 Explorer1/31/201 14,783.94
Fifth Third Bank
Backhoe Payment 10,815.89
Kanas State Bank of Manhattan
Water Meters5/7/2013 124,950.00
Old National Bank
Total $1,921,696.23

Village Long Term Debt
As of 11/23/09

Loan 1372 OWDA7/1/2014 269,243.47
Loan 2776 OWDA7/1/2014 263,548.00
Loan 3037 OWDA7/1/2019 415,259.94
Loan 3038 OWDA7/1/2019 11,138.42 Loan 4982 OWDA 1/1/2030 479,299.05
Loan 5268 OWDA 1/1/2031 1,356,951.00 Loan CO18D OPWC1/1/23 65,386.65
Loan COO5K/COO6K 114,500.00
Loan CT42L/CT43L 26,000 Explorer 1/31/2012 10,559.94
Fifth Third Bank
Water Meters5/7/2013 104,884.98 Old National Bank
Backhoe last payment Paid off
Kanas State Bank of Manhattan
Total $3,116,771.45

Below is a Comparison of our past due operating expenses in 2008, and year ending balance vs the current balance ending October.

Village’s 12/31/08 ending balance $167,267.85
In transit deposits 11,673.45
(1 receipt doubled keyed) (2 receipts invalid)
Withdrew from bank for health care not keyed is system $1699.68

Past Due Bills
Utility Service & Supply, Inc $6,750.00
Escrow account balance left - 1,596.66
Due from Village $5,153.34
Miami Valley Lighting $14,965.08
John Stanforth Construction 6,113.31
Berry Law Office 590.00
United Health Care 1052.69
American Legal 745.00
Rumpke (contract wrong this is at old rate) 18,399.54
Amsterdam 470.05
Audit Finding 2007-003 under payment of Mayor $1,514.00
OPWC loan payment 2421.73
Total past due bills $51424.74
The Utility Deposit Fund was short ($28,552.88) Please note that some funds carried over may have shown negative balances.
Total Funds Year End 2008 $102,469.98

“The Village started (2009 the year with the General Fund in a negative situation which required an advance from the Water Works Fund to operate the General Fund (this advance is paid off). The in transit deposits have been adjusted (currently bank reconciliation has no in transit deposits and no adjusting factors; all old outstanding checks have been addressed). The shortage in the Utility Deposit Fund from prior years has been repaid.”
Kim Walker, Fiscal Officer

Village’s 10/31/09 Balance $251,614.84
All bills are current, there are none outstanding. The General Fund is still extremely low but
Not in a negative standing.

I hope this information helps explain the “bottom line” and the financial situation of the Municipality. This is only a glimpse of a much larger and in depth financial picture. I believe it is important to manage our debt and revenues to operate in the best interest of the community.
Jeremy R Shaffer, Mayor



Police Report
Date: 11-23-2009
From: Chief Brandon J. Wooton

The Lynchburg Police Department report that follows reflects from October 1, 2009 to October 31, 2009.
Citations and Arrests: Dorothy J. Hamblin age 52 of Lynchburg, citation for Driving under a FRA suspension or cancellation. Jeremy Mcpherson age 21 of Peebles, citation for not wearing his seat belt, and reckless operation of a motor vehicle. David L. Naylor age 46 of Lynchburg, citation for driving under suspension. Joseph Throckmorton age 23 of Hillsboro, citation for Disorderly Conduct and arrested for a Warrant out of Hillsboro Municipal Court. Derek W. Myers age 28 of Lynchburg, citation for Disorderly Conduct, and arrested for Menacing. Derek M. Greene age 26 of Lynchburg citation for Disorderly Conduct. Christopher Lindsey age 26 of Lynchburg was cited for Disorderly conduct. Guy S. Myers age 30 of Lynchburg was arrested for a Warrant out of Hillsboro Municipal Court. Christopher A. Jackson age 31 of Lynchburg, was arrested for a Warrant out of Hillsboro Municipal Court. We assisted the Highland County Sheriffs office four times, and the Lynchburg Fire and Squad two times. There were eight cases handled within Lynchburg Mayors Court. Forty three calls were handled.

I want to greatly thank everyone for the overwhelming support on the Police Operations Levy!!!

The Lynchburg Neighborhood Watch will be not be meeting again until January 9, 2010. It will be held at the municipal building at 10:00 a.m. In the meeting on November 21, 2009, one of the things brought up was the timeliness of reporting incidents to Law Enforcement. The concession stand was broken into on High St., in the Village of Lynchburg. A lot of damage had been done to the building, and unknown items had been removed. Upon further investigation it was found that someone had noticed the damage to the building approximately two weeks prior to it being reported to the police department. Time is of the essence for Law Enforcement to be able to gather information and retrieving evidence. The majority of the evidence that could have been gathered is gone when the incident occurred two weeks prior. So please report any incident within a timely manner.

Lynchburg Village Christmas is coming up fast! It will be held on December 11th, and 12th, 2009. The food giveaway is also being held in December on the 5th, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., in the parking lot by the water tower, a voucher is necessary.


Respectfully,
Chief Brandon J. Wooton
Lynchburg Police Department


President of Council Review:

Council passed three new resolutions at the November Meeting. Resolution 2009-42 was a Resolution to amend the Appropriations, which will be sent to the County Auditor. Resolution 2009-43 was a resolution to repay the Utility Deposit Fund its Deficit and balance the funds, from past discrepancies. Resolution 2009-44 was a resolution to establish an unclaimed money fund. This fund will be used to place monies from unclaimed utility reimbursements.
The Administrator, Nicole Oberrecht, reported to Council the following:
 ALL FIRE HYDRANTS FLUSHED 10/27-29 FOR THE LAST TIME THIS YEAR – WATER PUMPED OUT BEFORE IT FREEZES

 10-20 ATTENDED OHIO RURAL WATER ASSOC. EXPO. SAT THROUGH SEVERAL PRESENTATIONS AND MET W/ SEVERAL DIFFERENT VENDORS THAT WE CURRENTLY USE OR COULD USE IN THE FUTURE.

 VILLAGE IN CONJUNCTION WITH OHIO RURAL WATER ASSOC. HAS PREPARED A DRINKING WATER SOURCE PROTECTION PLAN FOR EPA’S REVIEW. NOT MANDATORY – HOWEVER, IF WOULD NEED TO DRILL NEW WELL IN THE FUTURE WOULD NEED TO HAVE COMPLETED. ALSO HELPS W/ FUTURE FUNDING WHEN WE SET IN PLACE.

 PROJECT SIGN FOR FUNDING PHASE II OF WWTP PLACED AT OLD POLICE DEPARTMENT

 THE FIRST OF 2 CLARIFIERS HAS BEEN DUG @ SEWER PLANT FOR PHASE II

 BAYLESS ST.,BETWEEN NORTH AND HIGH STREETS – OLD STREET TORN OUT, BASE PUT DOWN, AND STREET PAVED 11-10-09

 CONTRACTOR :VILVENS’ PICKING UP LEAVES AROUND TOWN – DOING A GREAT JOB, MULTIPLE RESIDENTS HAVE CALLED IN AND ARE VERY APPRECIATIVE

 8120 SR 135 (HIGH WEEDS) – SENT NOTICE TO HOMEOWNER (CAME BACK UNDELIVERABLE) & MORTGAGE COMPANY (SIGNED FOR BUT HEARD NO OBJECTIONS) - VILLAGE TO MOW AND ASSESS TO PROPERTY

 306 BROADWAY (JUNK/TRASH) (CAPELLE) – UP TO COUNCIL ISSUE CITATION OR ABATE NUISANCE AND ASSESS TO PROPERTY??

Village Departments have been working hard to improve the infrastructure over the passed year and they are commended.
Finally, On behalf of Council and the Entire Community, I would like to Thank Rick Ludwick, Wastewater and Water Supervisor, for his service and dedication to the Village of Lynchburg Utility Department. Rick will be retiring effective Jan 15, 2010 after serving the community for over seven years. He has been part of the Water & Wastewater Industry for more than forty years.

Roger Shaffer, President of Council


Standing Committees for 2009
Public Safety & Streets - Chair: None – No Action Public Works – Utilities - Chair: Roger Shaffer – Updated on Phase II Waste Water Project. Updated on Recovery Act monies, and reporting. Finance - Chair: Roger Shaffer –Meeting Schedule Second Thursday of each Month at 6PM – Reviewed all Bank records and Finances for month of October. Committee discussed and reviewed information regarding end of year balancing, and financial status of the Municipality. Committee recommended to accept Bank Reconciliation w/o discrepancies. . Parks & Recreation – Chair: Tim McConnaughey – No Action Planning – Chair: Tina Nutt: No Action
Lynchburg Council meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at 7:30PM President of Council: Roger Shaffer


Local Calendar and Correspondents

Dodson Township Trustees Meeting
6:00 PM on the 2nd Monday of Each Month at the Lynchburg Area Fire Community Room

BLOOM / Garden Club Meets the 3rd Monday each month at 7:00 PM at the Lynchburg Commons Community Room. Everyone Welcome to attend.

St. Paul Lutheran Church
At Corner of Pearl Street & Eastern Ave.
Sunday School 10AM
Services at 11AM
Pastor Robert Skipper III

Faith Baptist Church
(By the covered Bridge) Frieberg Ave.
Robert Miller, Pastor 364-2681
Sunday Bible School: 9:30AM
Sunday Worship: 10:30 AM & 7:30 PM
Wednesday Worship: 7:30 PM
Our Sunday Radio Program
8:30 AM WKFI, 1090 AM
9:00 AM WSRW 1590 AM & WCHO 105.5 FM

Lynchburg United Methodist Church
Corner of Pearl and Sycamore
Sunday School 9:30 AM
Worship Service 10:30AM
Prayer Meeting Wednesday 7:00PM
Pastor Bill Biza

Lynchburg First Church of Christ
140 S Sycamore
937-364-2550
Breakfast 9AM
Sunday School 9:30AM
Morning Service 10:30AM
Men’s Bible Study 6PM
Evening Praise & Worship Service 7PM
Monday-Ladies Bible Study 7PM

Lynchburg Lions Club
2nd & 4th Monday Meeting 7PM
Breakfast 1st Saturday of every Month. 8AM until 11AM. All you can eat – Donation Breakfast

Lynchburg #683 IOOF
Meeting 2nd and 4th Saturday each Month at 7:00 PM
Location Lynchburg Lions Club

Pearl Street Church of Christ
330 Pearl Street
937-364-6336
Bible Class: Sunday 9:30AM & Wed. 7:00PM
Worship: 10:30AM & 6:00PM .

Lynchburg Fire and Ambulance District
Volunteer as a Firefighter or EMT
Community Room Available for Use
Call 364-2915

Lynchburg Masonic Lodge #178
Meeting 1st Wednesday of Month
New Website www.lynchburg178.webs.com


Boy Scout Troop 120
Meet at the Lynchburg Lions Club Wednesday 7-8 PM
Ages 11-18
Patsy Fauber Scoutmaster 937-288-2607



Year book 1966-2008 excluding 70’s
$10 1966-2005 $15 2006 $25 2007 $38.95 2008
Email joheather.arnett@lynchclay.k12.oh.us

Nov. 26th Thanksgiving Day – Rusty Star & Lori’s Place Open for Business 4-10PM

Dec. 5th - 8/11am Lions Club Breakfast

Dec. 5th – 11am/1pm Village Food Giveaway, a voucher is necessary – Pearl Street, Near Water Tower

Dec. 7th – 2pm Lynchburg Historical Society Meeting at Library

Dec 11th – 10am/8pm Village Christmas – Pick up Map at Library or any business

Dec. 12th – 10am/5pm Village Christmas – Free Carriage Rides 11am/3pm

Dec 12th - 6pm Church Walk Begins at St Pauls Lutheran Church ending at Methodist Church for Refreshments.

Dec 21st – 7pm BLOOM – Garden Club at Lynchburg Commons

Dec. 24th – 9pm Candlelight Service ST Paul Lutheran Church

Dec. 25th Christmas Day

Local Issues and Election Results

11/4/2009 8:33:00 AM
Four selected to serve on Lynchburg council
Wilbanks, Vilvens, Hastings, West elected
By MEREDITH CREEK
Staff Writer

Four seats on the Lynchburg Village Council will be filled by Christine Wilbanks, Denise Vilvens, Carolyn Hastings and Sandy West, according to unofficial results released Tuesday night by the Highland County Board of Elections.

With six candidates vying for the open positions, it was Wilbanks who unofficially captured the most votes with 358. Vilvens followed with 335 votes, Hastings with 320 votes and West with 306.

Former Lynchburg Mayor Terry Moore received 121 votes and 100 votes went Harold Braley, who served eight years as council president and a total of 10 years on council.

Wilbanks was appointed to council less than two months ago and after being elected, said she is looking forward to a successful four years.

She is a 1987 graduate of East Clinton High School who is "accustomed to breaking really large projects down into smaller pieces to make progress."

The Lynchburg police levy, which unofficial results showed Tuesday had passed, was an area Wilbanks said was of utmost importance for the village. She hopes to have an effect on changing infrastructure to make the village more appealing to potential homeowners and businesses.




Wilbanks has worked at ABX for 18 years, currently serving as manager of flight support.

Growing up in Lynchburg and returning to the area more than a year ago, Vilvens feels she is a good "people person and communicator who will work hard for the people."

She said the current state of the local economy is an obvious issue and complimented Lynchburg Mayor Jeremy Shaffer for his effort to help turn things around.

"I think Jeremy is a good leader who needs people who will work hard for him," Vilvens said.

Currently a teacher in Cincinnati, Vilvens is a 1985 L-C graduate who has also worked in administration. Her children, Curtis and Carli, are both students in the L-C school district.

Hastings told The Times-Gazette this was her first time running for a political office. Following Tuesday's unofficial results, which did not include provisional ballots left uncounted at press time, she said she appreciates the confidence the community has placed in her.

"The other winning candidates and I have worked like a team to get the police levy passed," Hastings said. "I know that teamwork will be evident on council as well. I'm very thankful."

Hastings grew up in Fort Wayne, Ind., graduating in 1959 from New Haven High School. She obtained a bachelor's degree in home economics and has spent many years tutoring disabled children, teaching adults to read, and helping individuals receive their GEDs through Southern State Community College.

Hastings and her husband, Don, have five children, Annette, Greg, Marissa, Sarah and Becky.

Calls placed Tuesday to Sandy West were not immediately returned.


http://www.timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&ArticleID=168884&TM=51830.37

11/4/2009 8:17:00 AM
Most local issues OK'd
Area fire, police levies approved by voters
By JEFF GILLILAND
Assistant Editor

Almost all issues presented to voters in Highland County passed last night, according to unofficial general election results from the Highland County Board of Elections.

The results do not include provisional ballots which had not been counted at press time.

The 5.5-mill property tax levy to create the new Paint Creek Joint EMS/Fire District in the city of Greenfield, Madison Township in Highland County and Buckskin and Paint townships in Ross County passed overwhelming with 1,680 votes cast for it and 773 votes against it.

The new fire district will eliminate the current Greenfield Fire Department and Greenfield Area Life Squad.

The village of Lynchburg's five-year, 5-mill police levy passed 293-188.

Brushcreek Township's five-year, 1-mill cemetery maintenance levy passed 247-145.

Marshall Township's five-year, 2-mill fire levy passed 238-108.

New Market Township's five-year, 1-mill replacement fire levy passed 400-208.

Paint Township's five-year, 1-mill fire levy passed 1,008-998.

Penn Township's renewal of a five-year, 1.8-mill fire levy passed 341-137.

Washington Township's five-year, 0.6-mill fire levy passed 256-129.

The Marathon gas station in Buford passed a request for a liquor license to sell alcohol between the hours of 10 a.m. and midnight 283-203, and also for Sunday sales 258-228.
http://www.timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&ArticleID=168879&TM=51830.37

A Responsibility to Community Safety

I want to be clear about the Lynchburg Police Levy. In the upcoming Election there is the proposed Local Issue 5, which is for a 5 mill Police Levy. The local Police Department is only funded through local levies that have to be voted on by the community. In the recent past, there were two 3 mill levies. One ended last year, 2008, and the current 3 mill will end effective Jan. 1, from the information I have. The proposed ballot will be for overall, less millage than has been received in the past, however it should create enough funding to stabilize the Police Department over the next few years. If the levy fails, there will not be any funding by the first quarter of next year, and there will not be a Police Department.
In the past, there has been money from the General Fund that could be used to offset the Police Budget and maintain services. There are two funds that are very short, and that is the Police Fund, and the General Fund. So, that means this is a very serious problem right now. Other Village funds, such as the Street Fund, Water Fund, Sewerage Fund, Light Fund, Trash Fund, Etc. must be used for there specific purpose, and cannot be used to fund general uses, or Law Enforcement, according to best practice and the State Auditor. In order to maintain a Police Department, it is very important to fund it properly.
Here’s what it will cost on a market valued home of $80,000. It would cost $10.50 per month or $126 dollars per year to have a local Police Department, which could respond to local calls within its budget. I know that not everyone owns a home that costs $80,000 market value. So here is how you can figure out what it will cost you. Take you Market Value, then multiply it by .35 (If you were using 80,000 you should get 28,000) This number is your tax valuation. Take this number (Tax Valuation) and Multiply by the mill which is .005 (Using the tax Valuation of 28,000 you should get $140) Then subtract ten percent which is equal to a reduction, and you should finally get $126 on an 80,000 dollar market value amount. Here is the formula: (Appraised Value) * .35 = (Tax Valuation) * .005 (Mills)= (Payment Amount) – 10% (Reduction) = Actual Yearly Amount
Funding is being cut throughout the State of Ohio, at different levels that provide for Police Protection. It is important that security is maintained, and it makes sense to have our own Lynchburg Police Department. I support the local Issue 5, to keep our Police Department and I hope you do too. It makes sense to provide security and protection, not only for ourselves, but for our families and neighbors. It is the responsible thing for the community.
Jeremy R Shaffer, Mayor

Food Bank for Citizens in Need

Leave Pick Up

Autumn is here and many people are cleaning up leaves. We are planning on picking leaves up. It is preferred that the leaves are in bags. There is a staging area behind the Wastewater Plant if anyone has access to a vehicle to bring them to the drop off point, it would be most helpful. Please make sure the leaves are at the curb and accessible. You must call the Office so that it can be scheduled for someone to come out and pick up the leaves. The Number is 937-364-2241. In an effort to save time and money, nobody will be driving and looking for leaves to pickup, so you must call in and someone will come out and pick the leaves up

Winter Weather

As Winter approaches there are a few things that would be helpful when the snow starts flying. Please try to refrain from parking on the right of way or on the street. That will make it easier to plow and salt. When you shovel a drive or dig out a parked car, place the snow to the right of the drive way or in front ( to the right) of a correctly parked car on the street. Doing this, will prevent the snow plow from plowing snow back into a driveway or around the car. Please stay off the roads if they become to hazardous, and prepare for bad weather by taking the necessary precautions.

Wastewater Mandate Phase II

The Second part of the Wastewater Plant upgrade is underway. Construction equipment is already moving in, and everything is approved. The project is estimated to end in Oct. of 2010. As everyone may recall, the majority of the project is be paid through stimulus money. If anyone is interested in visiting the project site or any of the local utilities, please contact my office.

Playground on Broadway

We have received $23,515 from ODNR to construct a Playground on Broadway across from the LC School Board Office. This project will begin in the near future. I would Like to thank Marvin Resibois, and the Lynchburg recreation Committee for driving this project, and assisting in the planning for future projects at this location. I would like to thank Lisa Kiley from Clinton County Planning Commission, for Authoring the Grant, and Chris Shock the Director for his assistance.

Food Bank

On December 5^th, there will be a nonperishable canned food available for Citizens in need. It will be located at the Middle School on Saturday Dec. 5^th. There Must Be a voucher filled out ahead of time. The Vouchers may be picked up at the Village Office, and there will be someone on hand at the Municipal Building on November 16^th and 17^th to assist in answering questions, filling out forms, and collecting information. Volunteers are also needed to assist in distributing the food in December. For more in formation please contact Carolyn at 937-364-2579

Lets continue to work together in making our community a better place.

Jeremy R Shaffer, Mayor

Village of Lynchburg, Ohio

Local Government in Ohio - The Village

"Ohio Local Government
Structure and Finance

Bulletin 835-98

---

F. Municipalities

The Ohio Constitution gives all municipalities home rule. This means that cities and villages may adapt laws for purposes of local self-government that are not specifically forbidden by or in conflict with general law. By way of contrast, counties and townships may perform only those functions that are specifically permitted by state law, unless they adopt, by vote of their citizens, an alternate or charter form of government.

Municipalities may choose from three different types of government - general statutory law, one of three optional statutory laws or charter. The optional plans and the charter require approval by vote of the citizens. Municipalities are classified as either villages (under five thousand population) or cities (five thousand and over).

General statutory law, described in ORC chapters 731 and 733, is the form of government of municipalities if the citizens have not adopted, by vote, one of the other forms. Under this form, for cities, the executive offices of mayor, president of council, auditor, treasurer and city solicitor are elected. A legislative body of from seven to 17 people, depending upon population, is also elected. In villages, the auditor and treasurer are often replaced by a clerk-treasurer, the mayor acts as the president of council, and the legal officer is appointed. Villages uniformly have a legislative body of six, with the mayor serving as president. If the village provides a utility service such as water, sewer or electricity, it will elect three citizens to a board of public affairs. Municipal mayors, who are chief executive officers, may appoint or remove the various department heads, such as police chief or public service director, appropriate to the municipality.

The president of council presides at council meetings, but has no vote except in the case of a tie.

The auditor, or village clerk, keeps the books of the municipality and makes certain that sufficient appropriated funds are available before vouchers are issued.

The treasurer receives and disburses all funds, and must keep an accurate account of them.

The city solicitor prepares all contracts and other documents for the city, and provides legal counsel for city officers.

The Ohio Revised Code, chapter 705, provides three optional plan forms of government that may be adopted by the voters of the municipality. All plans call for the appointment of a treasurer, auditor, clerk and solicitor by the legislative authority. Under the commission plan, the only elected officers are either three or five commissioners, depending upon population, who hold both legislative and administrative authority. They elect one of their body as chair. The commission may assign direction or supervision responsibilities to individual commissioners.

Under the city manager plan a council of five, seven or nine is elected as the legislative authority. They appoint a city manager who is the chief administrative officer.

If the federal plan is adopted, a mayor and five to 15 council members, depending upon population, shall be elected, with executive and legislative authority respectively.

Optional plan statutory forms of government are not commonly used, probably because the charter form is made available by the Ohio Constitution. With the charter, the municipality may develop any form of government that its voters approve. The charter allows the municipality to "fine-tune" its form of government, instead of adopting one of the prescribed plans. The charter has been used extensively in Ohio to enhance the home rule authority of municipalities.

Adoption of a charter is a two-step process. First, the issue of whether or not a charter commission should be elected is voted on by the people. Included with this issue is provision to elect 15 charter commissioners, who are elected if the issue passes. This issue may be placed on the ballot if petitioned for by 10% of the voters. If the charter commission is elected and formed, they have one year to prepare a proposed charter and submit it to a vote of the people. If it is adopted it becomes the basic framework for that municipality's government." (http://ohioline.osu.edu/b835/b835_6.html)

more information available on local government in ohio at

http://ohioline.osu.edu/b835/index.html

"Municipal Government

In Ohio, there are two kinds of incorporated municipalities, cities and villages. If a municipality has five thousand or more residents as of the last federal census it is a city, otherwise it is a village.^[1] Each municipality chooses its own form of government, but most have elected mayors and city councils or city commissions. City governments provide much more extensive services than county governments, such as police forces and professional (as opposed to volunteer) fire departments. Additional municipal services are often financed by local income taxes that townships cannot impose except in a Joint Economic Development District with a municipality. Not all municipalities levy income taxes; those that do range from 0.3% in the Village of Indian Hill to 3.0% in Parma Heights [1]." (Information From http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Government_of_Ohio) (Side Note: The Village of Lynchburg does not have an Income Tax)

I believe it may be impossible to have a government closer to the people than a Municipality. It is a true local Government. The elected officials are within reach of any person, and their decisions have a direct impact on their constituents very quickly. At the same time the local authority has its hands tied, somewhat, in the decisions of Government that local people believe they should have or do have control over.
In order for there to be effective a more Government in the whole, the entire system (System being everyone involved) needs to work closer together, and understand the various roles of the entire Government System better, and communicate them. Without vital communication between the Local, State, and Federal Government, I think we as officials, find ourselves spinning our wheels, and/or working against each other. It's time for Common Sense Government, now more than ever, at every level.
Jeremy

Street Not Maintained Since the 70's?

Street Not Maintained Since the 70's?













Lin-Kar Drive is a short narrow street off of South Broadway. Over the past year it has had some small changes that will improve the quality of life for everyone. Over the last 30 years the rain water periodically ran like a river down the narrow street, and even flooded a homeowners garage on occasion. Rain water drained from the Sycamore Street access alley, up South Broadway, across Lin Kar where it finally dispersed behind the homes, as the runoff eventually made its way to the neighboring creek. Over the course of this year, a few old storm drains were rehabilitated on south Broadway, and new catch basins were installed to catch much of the rain water at the mouth of Lin Kar Drive. These changes will make travel safer as winter approaches be stream lining the water down storm drains, and preventing ice build up on both streets, Lin Kar and S. Broadway.
In addition, a Street Light Pole was moved from its location in the middle of the caldasac to the edge, which will safely light the street. The change also allowed for machinery and equipment to pave the street at a better rate, and will make maintenance of the street easier in the future.
Just recently, the street was paved with a fresh coat of blacktop. The street was previously worn so bad that much of the area was broken blacktop and gravel. Some people thought it was a gravel road that had not been finished. In fact, it was a nice peaceful block, that had been neglected over the last thirty years, that needed a little bit of boot polish.
The changes and upgrades on Lin Kar, will pave the way for future improvements on S. Broadway, and allow for easier maintenance, as well as creating a better, safer living atmosphere for everyone.

October Information

Information and Happenings to take note of in the Lynchburg Area

Highland County Street Dance in Lynchburg was rescheduled from last week,
to the rain date of this Friday, OCT 9th from 7pm to 10pm

Lynchburg-Clay School Fall Carnival October 30th (Friday) 
Location: Elementary School on 134 S

Beggars Night is October 29, 2009 from 6pm to 8pm

In October there is a County Wide Curfew of 10PM

Any new construction within the Village of Lynchburg, must submit
construction packets and receive permits from Clinton County Building and
Zoning. The Information and Packets can be requested at the Lynchburg
Village Office on Main Street or from Clinton County Building and Zoning.
Clinton County Building and Zoning
Hours of Operation- M-F 7:30am-4:30pm (closed from 12-1pm)
Mailing address- 111 S Nelson Ave. Wilmington, OH 45177
Phone- 937-382-3335 or 937-383-2054 Fax- 937-383-3056
http://co.clinton.oh.us/building-and-zoning/building-and-zoning

Phase Two of Mandated EPA Project Underway

The Phase Two Construction of the mandated Sanitary Sewer Plant upgrade is underway. It officially started yesterday and will take almost one full year of construction for completion. Last Friday, October 2nd the preconstruction meeting was held. There was a general introduction of the contractor, Ameritcon, enginneer, Burgess and Niple, OWDA, and other various staff that will bring the project to a successful end result over the next year.
Over the next few months I will update progress of construction and the reporting of he Stimulas funding to the various agencies.

NO Electric SATURDAY OCT 10th Around 7am

Please send this information on.

It is my understanding from DP&L that they will be upgrading the substation in
Martinsville on Sat OCt 10th. (This Coming Saturday)
This will result in a break in electric service for about 15 minutes starting at or
around 7am.
Please be aware and prepare.
Thank you,
Jeremy R Shaffer, Mayor
Village of Lynchburg

Block Party SATURDAY August 15

The local Nieghborhood Watch and CIC are sponsoring a Block Party st Ruth Cramton Park.
Bring your family around 6PM. There will be Games, Food and Live Music.
6:30 Games for Kids and Cornhole Tournament for Adults
7:00 Dessert Auction
7:30 Karate Demonstration Sponsored by Jeff Jones and his Students
Live Music Throughout the Evening
6:30pm Sons of Sophistication
8:30pm Streetwise
Music Sponsored by Dr. Paul Schreibman
Food Provided by Vilvens and Son Excavating
Free Popcorn

Bring a Lawn Chair and Enjoy

Local Government Fund May Be Reduced

It seems the Local Government Fund may decrease the amount to Townships and Counties. Every community will be impacted by this.This is important to know because it will have an indirect impact on Village finances and a direct impact on services from other local governments. The Dept of Taxation has also taken another look at potential revenues.
Below I have pasted a Legislative Alert from OTA. Below that is the actual letter from the Department of Taxation.





Last month I sent a legislative alert that spoke to reductions in the Local Government Fund due to the lack of revenue in the State's general revenue fund. In that alert I mentioned that the Department of Taxation was revising their estimates for 2009 and 2010 based on new state revenue numbers.

The Department of Taxation has released that information and has posted it to their website. The 2010 estimates have been sent to each county auditor. To view the LGF explanatory document, visit http://tax.ohio.gov/channels/other/services_for_local_govts.stm and look under "Other Distributions." To view the 2010 estimates, please visit http://tax.ohio.gov/channels/government/OhioDepartmentofTaxation.stm
Sincerely,

Heidi M. Fought
Director of Governmental Affairs
Ohio Township Association
6500 Taylor Road, Suite A
Blacklick, OH 43004
(614) 863-0045
(614) 863-9751 Fax





Tax Analysis Division
P.O. Box 530
Columbus, Ohio 43216-0530
614-466-3960
tax.ohio.gov
2
2. Calendar year 2010 PLF distribution estimates
Each July, ODT is required to provide each county auditor an estimate of the amount to be distributed
to such county’s undivided public library fund during the next calendar year.1
ODT estimates that CY 2010 distributions from the state PLF will amount to $336.2 million. This
represents a decline of $33.5 million, or 9.1 percent, from the estimated CY 2009 distribution levels.
The amounts are summarized below (shown in millions of $). Note that each county’s distribution is
projected to decline by 9.1 percent in 2010 relative to 2009.
The year-over-year decline in overall PLF distributions is mostly attributable to the reduction in the
PLF funding percentage (from 2.22 percent to 1.97 percent), which affects all 12 months of
distributions during CY 2010 but only affects a portion of CY 2009 (i.e., the last five months of that
year). Another, less significant factor explaining the expected decline is that CY 2010 revenues are
predicted to be slightly below CY 2009 revenues.
July 2009 Revised (July 2009)
Estimate of Total Estimate of Total $ change: % change:
Calendar Year 2010 Calendar Year 2009 Est CY 2010 less Est CY 2010 less
PLF Distributions PLF Distributions est CY 2009 est CY 2009
$336.2 $369.8 -$33.5 -9.1%
3. Calendar year 2009 and 2010 LGF distribution estimates
Because of updated revenue projections, ODT has revised its CY 2009 estimates of the distributions
from the state LGF to the 88 county undivided local government funds. These estimates are slightly
under the CY 2009 estimates issued in June 2009. See below for a summary of the revised CY 2009
and actual CY 2008 distribution amounts (in millions).
Revised (July 2009)
Estimates of Total Total Actual
Calendar Year 2009 Calendar Year 2008 $ change: % change:
Distributions to Distributions to Est CY 2010 less Est CY 2010 less
88 County LGFs 88 County LGFs est CY 2009 est CY 2009
From state LGF $589.1 $687.8 -$98.7 -14.4%
Dealers in
Intangibles 12.6 11.9 0.7 5.9%
Total distribution $601.7 $699.7 -$98.0 -14.0%
ODT estimates that CY 2010 distributions to the county undivided local government funds will be
$577.9 million (excluding dealer in intangibles tax distributions). This represents a decline of $11.2
million, or 1.9 percent, from the estimated CY 2009 distribution levels. The amounts are summarized
below (in millions of $). The decline stems from the extectation of continued weak revenue
performance in the first few months of CY 2010.
July 2009 Revised (July 2009)
Estimates of Total Estimates of Total
Calendar Year 2010 Calendar Year 2009 $ change: % change:
Distributions to Distributions to Est CY 2010 less Est CY 2010 less
88 County LGFs 88 County LGFs est CY 2009 est CY 2009
From state LGF $577.9 $589.1 -$11.2 -1.9%
Dealers in
Intangibles 12.3 12.6 -0.3 -2.4%
Total distribution $590.2 $601.7 -$11.5 -1.9%
1 In addition, updated PLF distributions estimates are to be issued in December preceding the distribution year and in June
of the distribution year. Thus, ODT’s next set of distribution estimates for CY 2010 will be released in December 2009.

Emerald Ash Borer Update

Below is an update I received from ODNR. It is a press release about the spread of the devastating Emerald Ash Borer Please take precautions and follow the restrictions as you camp the rest of the summer or visit any or our area parks or campgrounds.



Emerald Ash Borer Confirmed in Five New Counties
Last modified 2009-07-30 11:52


Agriculture Department Adds Ashland, Richland, Summit, Greene and Morrow Counties to Quarantine

REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio (July 28, 2009) – Ohio’s Emerald Ash Borer quarantine was expanded today by the Ohio Department of Agriculture to include five new counties. Ashland, Richland, Summit, Greene, and Morrow counties were added to the quarantine, which helps slow the spread of the ash tree-killing insect by prohibiting the movement of all hardwood firewood and ash tree materials.

U.S. Department of Agriculture officials confirmed the positive identification of specimens collected in each of the counties. Ashland, Richland, and Summit county specimens were taken from the purple traps placed across Ohio by the Ohio Department of Agriculture. The Greene County specimen was retrieved by an Ohio State University Extension agent, and the Morrow County specimen was obtained following a tip from a U.S. Department of Agriculture employee. These findings mark the first known infestations in each of these counties.

Since Emerald Ash Borer was first discovered in Ohio in 2003, the department has placed 50 counties under quarantine. The quarantine makes it illegal to transport ash trees, parts of ash trees, and all hardwood firewood from any quarantined county into a non-quarantined county without a compliance agreement from the Ohio Department of Agriculture. Ohio’s quarantine map is also available at the department’s Web site. Violators of this quarantine may face fines up to $4,000. Due to a federal quarantine, it is also illegal to take these items from the state of Ohio.

Firewood dealers, businesses, or woodlot owners interested in marketing and transporting ash trees or firewood from quarantined areas can do so only with a department-approved compliance agreement. These agreements stipulate handling practices that mitigate the artificial spread of Emerald Ash Borer.

Ash trees infested with Emerald Ash Borer typically die within five years. The pest belongs to a group of metallic wood-boring beetles. Adults are dark green, one-half inch in length, one-eighth inch wide, and fly from early May until September. Larvae spend the rest of the year beneath the bark of ash trees and leave D-shaped holes in the bark about one-eighth inch wide when they emerge as adults.

For information on the Emerald Ash Borer, compliance agreements, firewood restrictions, purple traps, and quarantine updates, call 1-888-OHIO-EAB.

Swimming Pools Should have Fence for Safety

Public Hearings:
July 29, 2009 10 o’clock AM, Highland County Commissioners Office, Application for Annexation of Certain Properties on Sharpsville Rd

Sept. 5th, Public Hearing on Certifying Payment of Wastewater Capital Debt by Guaranteed Manner or Assessment, Phase I 11AM, Phase II 12 Noon.

Street Maintenance and Improvement Action Plan Ready to Be Implemented

Sewerage:
Council and myself are working diligently to meet the criteria for funding of the Wastewater Treatment Plant Phase II. There have been several meetings, and phone conversations over the last month to fast track the construction. The project is being bid immediately, and is expected to be under construction by late Fall.
Mark Suiter, Assistant Wastewater Superintendent, has recently been accredited with a certification for Class I Water and Class II Wastewater. These licenses, along with his experience and credentials make him a valuable asset to the Village of Lynchburg utility operations. These certifications are required by the EPA, to continue operating our utilities in compliance with the law and in a safe manner for public health. I want to congratulate him on his hard work over the last year, and an excellent job. I believe he will do an excellent job as our new Superintendent at the end of the 2009.

Street Update
Road and storm drain repairs have been moving forward around the entire town. It is expected, that there will be two small streets paved by the end of the Summer. At this point, the preparation has begun to repair the burm/edge and drainage around the areas to be paved so that the improvement will stand the test of time, and cost less to maintain. There is a draft of the first ever, Street Maintenance Program. This document provides us with the information if Street widths, lengths and conditions. Right of Way access and other needed information to assist in providing for street upgrades and paving in the years to come. This action plan will still start this year with two paving jobs mentioned previously.

Swimming Pools
There have been many questions regarding pool installations. Swimming Pools are regulated within Ordinance 2006-8, known as Subdivision Regulations, Section 162.045 A-B.
“(A) Al swimming pools within the Village shall now be completely surropunded by a fence of not less than four feet in height entirely constructed upon the owner’s property sufficient to restrain infants and toddlers from gaining access to the swimming pool.”
“(B) This section shall not apply to a container which is designed or used for wading which will not permit the filling with water to a depth of 2-1/2 feet and which may be dismantled, stored, or moved to one place or another without the use of tools other than what is normally found in a household workshop. Penalty, see 162.999”

In my opinion, clarity could be better within the Section, and is open to interpretation. The interpretation and advice of the Lynchburg Solicitor Fred Beery, is what I must take into consideration though. I hope this clears up any misunderstanding or question. It is important to comply for the safety of the community.

Finances
After paying the first half of 2009’s long term debt, and after all monthly bills are paid. The Village of Lynchburg is current and in the Black. In the months to come it will be very tight, however the current fiscal care and responsibility has brought the finances to a much better standing. There is quite a way to go, but it is on a positive course and turned around 180 degrees.

Lynchburg Finances Looking Better

I'am happy to report that the Lynchburg Village Government is up to date on paying it's long term and short term debt. At the first of the month the first half of the years long term debt payment, for capital improvements on past water and sewer projects was payed totaling more than $80,000. After all operations and monthly invoices were payed, the fund balances were still in the black. They were very close, and money is still very tight, however it is looking like things are getting better. On the current course, I sincerely believe that monthly utility invoices on the local wastewater, sewer, should decrease drastically in the next 5 years.

The Council and myself discussed the EPA,s request to guarantee the upcoming long term debt for the phase one and two of the current capital improvements at the wastewater treatment facility. The Council did decide to start a process to assess certain properties affected by the upgrades. Many scenarios were looked at, for instances, not doing anything, adding the amount to the current monthly utilities invoice, pay off the debt,add an income tax, assessment to certain properties.

Burgess and Niple was chosen as the Engineering firm for phase two of the sewer plant project. This project is being fast tracked, due to the fact that Lynchburg will be receiving stimulus and other grant monies

The project plans for phase one and two are at the Municipal Building, along with the contracts, for anyone's review.

The Council passed the first comprehensive plan in the history of Lynchburg. This plan has been more than a year in the making. It is also available for review.

Right Runner: Only In Wilmington

Right Runner: Only In Wilmington

First Comprehensive Plan

The Village of Lynchburg has finished the first Comprehensive Plan in its history.
This Comprehensive plan explains the geographical location, history and statistics. In addition, it outlines the various Village services and will act as a guideline for future growth, and upgrades for the area infrastructure. The plan will assist with governing the Village in the future and meet requirements for certain funding opportunities.
I thank the Planning committee, and Chris Shock with Clinton County Regional PLanning for there assistance over the last year and, a special thank you to David Alpern, who organized, researched, and arranged the Comprehensive Plan.

Lynchburg Library May Close

I have been informed that if the State Budget is approved the Lynchburg Library may be closing. A library is very important to any community, especially ours. The signs are already on the library windows, do not take my word, go and check it out. It is imperative to contact our State Rep and Senator immediately, if you wait one day it will be to late. It is already to late to send a letter, you must call or email them. I will provide you with the letter I sent and the information for our State Rep. and State Senator. Please feel free to use my letter as a template.
Please help save the Lynchburg Library.
Thank you,
Jeremy R Shaffer, Mayor

Call or Email Below

David T. Daniels, State Represenative
District: 86
Term: 4th
Term Limit: Not eligible to run for another two-year term
Address:
77 S. High St
10th Floor
Columbus, OH 43215-6111
Phone: (614) 466-3506
Fax: (614) 719-6986
Email: district86@ohr.state.oh.us

John Carey, State Senator
District:17
Senate Building
Room #127, First Floor
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Telephone: 614/466-8156
Email: SD17@senate.state.oh.us

My Letter:
Honorable Sen. John Carey & Honorable Representative David Daniels,

I understand that economic times are tough and that difficult choices must be made, however cutting 227 million dollars from libraries in Ohio is not the right decision to make.

Libraries are more than places you can check out a book. Libraries have become the backbone of our community, providing many services to the entire community. The Lynchburg Library is helping everyday, bridge a huge technology gap that is happening in society by offering the extensive use of computers and other forms of technology enabling citizens to educate and market themselves.

Your constituents rely heavily on their local libraries to provide educational and entertainment needs. People in your district are using the library to apply for jobs, learn how to build a resume and set up email accounts.

As the Mayor of a small Village, it is important for local growth and development. Our Library is part of a crumbling foundation that I work hard to repair and build on everyday. It is hard enough to attract business to a small community, which would provide for a local tax base and jobs. With the Lynchburg Library possibly closing, due to the proposed budget, it will be much harder to attract residents, and provide for the future of this small community. As you know, this area has been hit the hard with job losses due to the DHL relocation to Kentucky. My community needs to retain its library in order to make Lynchburg, Highland County, and Ohio strong again. Do not let our Governor’s Budget put another nail in the coffin of small communities.

Denying Lynchburg and your voters the use of their public library is not going to bring them up to speed with the challenges in today’s economy. I would like you to oppose the proposed budget cuts to the Public Library Fund. It’s wrong for libraries and wrong for Ohioans.

Respectfully,


Jeremy R Shaffer, Mayor

Sidewalks Bring Communities Together

What is a Sidewalk:

"A sidewalk (chiefly North American English), pavement (British English, South African English and Philadelphia dialect), footpath (Australian English, Irish English, Indian English and New Zealand English), platform (chiefly Indian English) or footway (Engineering term) is a path for pedestrians that is situated alongside a road or a paved pathway (such as a concrete footpath through a park). A sidewalk may accommodate moderate changes in grade. However, "walkway" is a more complete term for support of walking, and includes stairs, ramps, paseos (passageways) and related off-street tools that provide for a developed pathway.

Sometimes, a sidewalk is next to its street or road with perhaps only a curb in between. Sometimes, there is an area called a parkway or tree lawn in between the sidewalk and the street." (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sidewalk)


Walk to meet your neighbors,you will save money and the environment.

Sidewalks

I have had several questions about sidewalk maintenance over the last year. I will address it to the best of my ability, from the information I have up to today.
This leads back to right-of-way, which I discussed in a similar forum last year. A property owner has the privilege to maintain and use right-of-in which their property connects. That is different from owning the right-of-way. Most improvements are prohibited in the area of right-of-way, due to the fact, that most of these areas are located/plotted for streets and alleys. Improvements and encroachment may cause potential safety problems, in which everyone would be potentially legally liable for damages.
Sidewalks are usually placed in the right-of-way. When this occurs, the property owner has the responsibility to maintain it. If an public access through a sidewalk or waterway is established then whether on private property or not, it must be maintained for safe use and function.
The specific question asked was “would the local government be willing to repair sidewalks and assess it to the property tax if the property owner did not have the money?’ It is the responsibility of the local government and community to have and maintain safe sidewalks. So you could say, that the local government has the power to do this if safety is a problem. At this point, I believe it would be reasonable if a person would like to proceed in this manner and the local government repair or add a sidewalk and assess it, it could be done. AT this point there is not funding or a requirement for the local government to do it without reimbursement from the property owner. Though there may be a time when sidewalks are required to be repaired, maintained, or reconstructed.
Sidewalks are important; they make neighborhoods more livable, cleaner, and safer. They are appealing to the eye, and finally they reduce traffic accidents, and even speed. “Sidewalk presence had a risk ratio of 0.118, which means that the likelihood of a road with a paved sidewalk being a crash site was 88.2 percent lower than a road without a sidewalk” .(Wikipedia.com)

Wastewater Treatment Phase I Online

Friday the June 13th, the pumps and headworks, which is phase one of the sewer plant upgrade, was brought online. It has worked for the last week and there have been no problems. Phase one will still continue throughout the next few weeks. The Engineer, Floyde Browne, has made a preliminary punch list. The contractor, Sunesis, will be wrapping the project up. I encourage the community to contact the office and take a tour of the Lynchburg water and sewer utilities. The utilities we operate are important to improve the quality of life within the community,improve property value, improve health; and the operations are regulated by the EPA, as well as many quality controls the certified operators maintain. Lynchburg has two licensed operators. Rick Ludwick and Mark Suitor, both have the proper certifications for water and wastewater (Sewer).
The wastwater plant, phase two will be fast tracked due to the money that Lynchburg will receive through stimulus funding process. The PTI, permit to install, has been approved by the Ohio EPA. In August, Lynchburg will be applying for additional 0% loans for the remaining balance. These loans will be through DEFA, which is the funding branch of the EPA. DEFA, will also be on sight throughout Phase II to assist Lynchurg, and make sure the project is being done properly. DEFA does this when the loan money, and when certain government grants are obtained. The balance of Phase II will be around one million dollars, after the 2.1 in grant money Lynchburg has received. It is imperative that the Council come up with a way that this will be paid back before the project is complete, or it will be added to the utility invoice in 2010. I do want to remind everyone that the sewer plant upgrade is mandated by EPA, this started in 1997, Lynchburg is under Findings and Orders (which is a legal binding document specifying environmental hazards caused by the current plant), the plant was overflowing and polluting the watershed, the plant was outdated, Lynchburg was fined, and this is a very important problem that deserves attention.

Maintenance is Getting Done around Lynchburg

In an effort to share how some money is being used for maintenance, I figured I would post a picture and an update.
Drainage:
We have successfully repaired drainage throughout the entire Village in the last two years. Drainage is important to keep water from laying on roads. When water lays on a road instead of going into a drain or ditch, it breaks up the road over time. It cause soft spots, cracking, bulges, pot holes, etc. In the last few months there have been two catch basins found, and cleaned, with new grates on N. Sycamore.
A very old drain was found on High Street and Broadway. After digging 6 feet deep it was opened. An eight in. was ran with a very small catch from the corner of Broadway to the newly opened basin on High St.
The top of the Catch basin at Short Street and Eastern was poured and a new grate. Many of us remember an old plate and sink hole there.
Recently part of the road started caving in at the Board of Education on Pearl. The drain line was made up of clay tile, steel, and plastic. It had been repaired and patched quite a few times. 140 feet of new culvert line was put in before the entire section fell in.
Stop Signs:
In 2008, the State of Ohio mandated that all STOP signs were to be high reflectivity. Many of the signs around the community were installed on the poles wrong, and faded. In an effort to make the community safer and meet the suggested mandate, all Stop signs are now high intensity reflective signs. Please let me know if any were missed during the replacement this year.
Trees:
Trees are an important part of our community. They give it a quaint small town feeling. Trees provide shade, a place for wildlife, and they assist in saving energy by protecting our homes from the elements. Some though are rotten and need to be replaced. There was a little money in the State Hwy fund that can only be used for 134 and 135, and its right away. The total is several hundred a year. Usually it has to be added with other monies in order to do anything. This year it was used to cut down a couple rotten trees, that have had trouble in the past. In an effort not just to cut down, I have developed a plan to plant a few in the same areas. In addition, I would like to see some trees planted in our park areas.I am working toward this because I feel trees are an important part of our community and lives.
Street money:
The levy money has been used to prep streets for blacktop, snow removal, salt,drainage, and much more. I want to see the money at least pave a street or so every year. Blacktop is very expensive, however are streets need help. In an effort to start somewhere, Linn-Kar Drive will be paved, it has not been done since the 1970's and Bayless, from High Street - North is on the agenda to be paved, which has not been done since about the same time more around 40 years. It is something that has to be done. I hope to blacktop a couple streets a year.

Show Me the Money!!!!

Good News
Myself, and many of you in the community fought to receive grant funding for the second phase of the Waste water Treatment Plant Project. We wrote letters to Senators, State Representatives, Congressman, and the Governor. I petitioned for community support, and lobbied all the agencies I thought could help.
The numbers are in and the Village of Lynchburg will be getting $1,602,000 in a grant for the project. This grant came through the stimulus funding program. In addition, we were able to secure $500,000 in a grant earlier this year. That is a total of $2,102,000 in Grant funding for the project which totals $3,204,000. The project will still cost something, however this is a huge burden that we will not have to bear. There is a light at the end of the Tunnel, 2014 here we come. The Community will get a brand new state of the art sewer plant that will be ready for the future.
Follow this link http://www.epa.state.oh.us/defa/stimulus.html
The Click on the Amended 2009 Program Management Plan
The Project count number is 159, on the Adobe page 44
Congratulations Lynchburg $$$

Is Crime Lower Now, Then it was One Hundred Years Ago?

Understanding the history of Lynchburg and it's Police may give us an insight to the importance and value our predecessors placed on law enforcement. I have spent much time reading older Council minutes to seek out the evolution of the Police Department, and to try to grasp how the community arrived at the point we are at.
Between 1830 and 1890 there became a need for protection. The events leading up to this are relatively unclear. However the community elders did see fit, and endorsed a Village Marshall and a Village Jailer. The Village of Lynchburg had its own law enforcement agents and a local jail. Most likely the Marshall, which means Police Chief today, was an elected rather than appointed position. The Jailer was a separate position and he employed help, separate from the Marshall.
In the early 1900's to 1920's records show the Marshall employing special Police and night Police. It seems Special Police were officers on day shift and Night Police or watchmen, were employed specifically to serve as law after dark. These officers were law officers under the Marshall. Through the years it seems the Village maintained around 4 law enforcement officers and up to six, including the Jailer at time throughout history.
Sometime in the mid 1930's, there is a gap in records, the Police Department was formed and the Marshall became a Chief of Police. This Chief was an appointed position under the Mayor and was confirmed by the Village Council. This is much the same as it is today. Things seemed to run about the same with a jailer, and an assistant who cleaned and maintained the jail, along with other Village offices. The Police Department stayed steady with the Chief and never less than two additional officers.
The Village had a Police Chief, which many remember, Harold "Windy" Shaffer, who had a long run as Police Chief, about 20yrs. His retirement commenced in 1985,and "Windy" started in the 60's under his predecessor Chief Chester Elam. Everything seemed very Mayberry like. The Village had one cruiser and one town maintenance truck, an excellent tax base which brought in a few thousand dollars.
Then came 1979, which is a year that has unclear minutes about several problems.This seems to be the beginning of the road that led us to where we are today. Two deputies under Chief H. Shaffer, quit or resigned that year. The Village Council were in the process of purchasing a new Police cruiser from Brose Chevrolet which was the local Chevy dealer in Lynchburg. It seems one of the officers brought false charges and or lied in testimony. At a special meeting in latof e 1979 that was called to "Discuss Police Problems" the Village legal counsel ,Mr Hapner, informed the Council that the Highland County Prosecutor informed him that charges would be filed against the Village and or Officers if they were put back on duty.
Later on that year the Council decided to keep Chief Shaffer on until his retirement in 1985, and contract with the Sheriff for Protection. This contract was for a Deputy Sheriff to be here from late evening to early the next morning, the times are explained in the minutes, seven days a week.
Since, 1985 there were many Police Chiefs that tried to rebuild a proper Department, however still leaned on the crutch of the Sheriff's Department for the majority of support. The perception of the Police Department from its former glory was no more. This was due to the fact that a scandal had destroyed it. The community has been in an unstable whirlwind since then. From 1990 to now there have been around 12 Police Chiefs. This in itself show instability and lack of leadership among the Department, Government, and Community. Much of this can be contributed to lack of funding in the last twenty years. The Police did not need much funding with only one Chief, and a Sheriff contract, which did cost something and was not free. Initially in 1979 it was over $15,000 dollars for Sheriff Dept. coverage.
With the challenges we all face, which include: lack of funding, rising crime, lack of protection, I believe we need a Police Department more than ever. A local Police Department that understands the Lynchburg Community. I think it is time to put the focus here at home. It is time to rebuild a local Police Department that understands and cares. With your help, myself, and Chief Wooton, can give us all the protection we deserve. Now, this will not be free, it will not be easy, however it is the responsible thing to do, in order to protect our families and property.

Police Department Days Numbered

After the Special Council Meeting on May 26,2009 regarding the budget of the General Fund and Police Fund I'am at a loss. The meeting started at 6:30pm and I managed to get home by about 10:30. Sheriff Ward was present. He addressed some concerns regarding the Safety of the community. He said he would try to help within his means, however the very best Police Protection would only from a local Lynchburg Police Department.
I covered a history of the Department, and statistics relevant to the budget from 2004 to 2009. Police Chief Wooton addressed manpower, crime Statistics, call records, and the situation regarding decreased Police around the county and how that has affected the Community. He even explained the large amount of administrative duties that have to be done in order to have a Police Department. A breakdown of an officer pay was handed out so that everyone could clearly see what it took to pay an officer from an expenditure and revenue standpoint.
The Council Members had no ideas on what to do and how to assist in protecting the community, though they did say they felt it was a serious problem. They only came up with three solutions which were borrow money, impose a 1% income tax, or run the levy again and hope it passes.They each made it clear that the Police Department might in fact not exist in a few months.
I also explained the severe deficit in the General Fund which pays for many of the Village Services and the fact that in the past the water deposit money had been tapped into and needed to be re payed. It seems the water deposit money may have been depleted between 2003 to 2008. Several documents show the needed amount, one was the Glenavy Sewerage Project match in 2007. Others include transfers between 2003 and 2007 the General fund. With these shortfalls, the Police could not use any money from General to make up for its budget the way it had apparently been done in the past. I will cover the information in the next several days through a series of entries. I will express some of the issues, with substantiated information about the serious situation that is playing out.
I cannot solve this problem alone. The Governing Body is the 6 Council Members, and they have the power to appropriate, budget, and legislate. I warned in January of 2008 that I believed the Village was on the verge of a fiscal watch or even a fiscal emergency, and I still believe that we are not clear from that. The ORC requires me to inform Council on Budgetary issues and I have. I do not feel that the Council are being proactive in solving any problem. I feel they continue to wait and time is running out on several levels and with several issues. As some stand by and watch, problems are worsening. There are no easy answers, however it will take some serious thinking and work to find solutions and understand the problems. I believe we really have a chance to take the problems and turn them into opportunities. With work, we could emerge in a better position.
Last, I will tell you what the Council voted unanimously to do. They approved borrowing $20,000 from the last tax draw from the Police in October. Have that advanced through a bank to be used now. In addition they voted to have the Auditor Certify the amount of properties for another Ballot issue in the Fall. They had missed the deadline to add a ballot issue at a special election, which would have been August.

$14,606.17 In Police Budget to Last until October, No Protection Eminent, Glenavy Project repayment may be Guaranteed by Tax Assessment

The Council met on May 19th in a Special Session to discuss budget and finance problems. Several items were on the agenda, however the main topic was the Glenavy Sewerage Rehabilitation Project loan repayment. The Project is not officially complete and the Contractor has not been paid the final payment for completion. There were several small problems that needed to be repaired before completion would be granted. With the current budget situation it is important that the project be repaid with guaranteed funding that will not burden the community as minimally as possible.
The Glenavy Sewerage Project was important to stop the ground water inflow to the wastewater plant. After a flow study, conducted by Floyde Browne Engineering, it was found that the Glenavy subdivision contributed the largest amount of II. The EPA did not mandate this project, however they did strong arm the community to repair this problem and reduce II. It was important to reduce the water infiltration, because it attributed to the current system overflowing at the Wastewater Treatment Plant, and without it's reduction it would have been more difficult to accurately design a new plant, which was mandated by the EPA, in which Lynchburg was under findings and Orders. The EPA also noted that it was required in order to receive any DEFA funding in the form of 0% loans or grants available through their agency.
THe options to fund the repayment were 1. Pay in full 2a. Assessment to Property in Glenavy (143 Parcels at approx. $29.19 per year) 2b. Assessment to property throughout entire Village (963 Parcels at approx. $4.34 per year) 3. Raise Sewer portion of Utilities Invoice (550 to 625 Customers) 4. Income Tax
I specifically asked to to make sure that they looked at all options and came to a conclusion that they believed was the most sensible and responsible with the information they had. If nothing was done, the Utilities Department would be forced to raise the Sewer portion of the Utilities Invoice for the 550 to 625 customers that receive a utilities invoice. I believe this was an opportunity to visit other options that had not been taken into consideration in the past. Ultimately a decision could be made that would affect the future utilities invoice and make it quickly reduce over time or raise in the near future. The outcome of the meeting was to pursue an assessment to 963 parcels, at est. $4.34 per year for 20 years. There will be a public hearing on June 27th at 12pm(noon) Some of the positives of the project and the assessment as discussed are Every property would pay an equal share that is fair. The benefit for the entire community are as follows. There is a reduction in water infiltration, which reduces the plant overflows and more possible enforcement complications with the EPA which could include fines and mandates. It allows the entire community to receive funding through DEFA, the funding branch of the EPA. This could be federal monies, 0% loans, and/ grants. Some of the Negatives that are understood and came out from the discussion are as follows, the Council understood their will be an added burden to the property owner by an additional estimated $4.34 per year, that there was misinformation originally portrayed that the project would not cost anything. In fact it costs $114,500 over the next 20yrs, after $150,000.00 grant. The biannual payment is $2086.50 or $4173.00 per year.

No Protection from Criminals Eminent
The Police Department only has $14,606.17 to last until October. The Council will meet in a Special work session next Tuesday May 26th at 6:30pm. The Highland County Sheriff may be there and if not available will be at the next regular Council Meeting. Due to funding reduction around the county, law enforcement has been reduced and the existing officers are overburdened as crime rises. Greenfield has reduced its force, closed its jail, and shut down its dispatch. The county has taken on that burden. The County has also had a budget reduction and has less officers and manpower to attempt to cover more. Ask yourself - What is your safety worth? The problem is crime is on the rise, as protection is being decrease. What is safety from criminals and protection of your family worth?

Please attend the next meeting. There is an open forum at the end of the regular council meetings. Please submit concerns in writing or come in on Saturday if it is something the Mayors office can help with.

Turn The Street Lights Off in 2011 & Pay for the Glenavy Sewer Project

The Council Meeting was a very long and intense meeting. Several resolutions were passed in the beginning. I presented quite a list of important and challenging problems that must be solved in order for the Village Government to properly represent the citizens of Lynchburg and to dig out of the mess that has been inherited. I was reminded after the meeting that each of these challenges our opportunities to provide for a brighter future. Each of these items are the responsibility of the local government to look into and in fact it would be irresponsible if action is not taken immediately and the projected negative outcomes occur. These outcomes are higher utilities, higher taxes, and less services to the community. A couple council members even said shut off the street lights when the contract is up in 2011. There will be a Special Council Meeting to work on hand full of these Items next Tuesday at 6PM. The focus will be the budget, more specifically The New WWTP debt repayment and the Glenavy Subdivision Sewerage project debt repayment. Below is a copy of my presentation, which is in an outline format, however the basic idea is probably understood. I projected as clear as I can that I need the assistance of the Council Members and Community to get things done. There are many important problems that have to be addressed, most importantly the growing budget concerns. Budget Numbers for income our becoming available that are accurate, and it is very scary. We have halted a fiscal emergency for now, however it is still on the horizon if we do not make some hard choices and investigate the options so that we continue tho understand the problems and turn those into Opportunities for the future.

The outline below carried much discussion about how we got were we are. The different options available and costs associated with each. Each of the topics will have more discussion in the near future, and will be in depth.


Serious Problems that are Our Responsibility to Address immediately

Long Term Budget:
Law Enforcement (How do we pay for it!)
Streetlight(s) (How do we pay for it!)
Glenavy Sewer Project (How do we pay for it!)
WWTP Phase one & two (How do we pay for it!)
Old Wastewater System Debt (How do we pay for it!)
Park Mowing (How do we Pay for It!)
Council, Mayor, Fiscal Officer (How do we Pay for it)
Cemetery Maintenance (How do we Pay for it)

Capital Improvements on the Table:
Glenavy Water Loop (Phase Three)
Glenavy Sewer Project
WWTP Phase one
WWTP Phase two

Drainage:
How do we repair the water run off in Glenavy?
How do we repair Storm drainage backup on Pearl Street, next to Methodist Church?
How do we repair water run off on South Broadway?
Where do we start when opening up and repairing old storm drain system?

Street
What is the maintenance plan?
What is the street upgrade ( Capital Improvement) plan?
Do we have a long term streetlight replacement plan? (Solar)

Development
Infrastructure Development
Nature / Park Development
Economic Development
What do we need? (Dave Alpern Reported twice on the Needs through community Open Houses and investigating and a comprehensive plan draft,,(where are we)…)
How are we going to get it?
How are we going to clean up downtown?
How are we going to grow business, MFG, Dist, Retail? Tefabco MFG
Comprehensive Plan…..?!!!

Infrastructure:
Water Needs Assessment?
Sewerage Needs Assessment?

Grants and Appropriations - Needs
Infrastructure?
Marketing Study?
Natural Disaster Plan!
Cost Study?
Advertising Study?
Affects?

Ordinances, Resolutions, and General Legislation……
What do you want to change?
What do you want to make better?
Have you made a difference as an elected official?

Problems My Office heard since the Last Council Meeting!
Cat Problem!
Dog Problem!
Possum and raccoons!!
Alleys!!!
Green Space!!!
Heating and A/C Problem at Municipal Building!
People not taking care of Pets!!
Children running the Streets after dark!
People Soliciting Door to Door!
Trees rotting and falling!
Tree Maintenance!
Speed Limits!
Vehicles squealing wheels and loud radios!!
Stop Signs!
Obstruction of Safety Devices!
Drainage, Flooding!
Speeding Ticket!
Parking!
Maintaining Village Buildings!!!
Sewer Backup!!!
Falling down buildings!
Falling down Homes!!
Sidewalks!!
Grocery Store!!
Cemetery Maintenance, Cemetery Vandalism!
Street Lighting!
Sex Offenders not registered Correctly!
Roads Falling Apart!
Right of Way Problems!
Is Demmy Construction fixing Glenavy or the Village repairing, when? What is getting fixed?
People not mowing and maintaining property!
Utility Invoicing complaints!!
U turns, and driving on the wrong side of the street!!
Mosquitoes!!!!
RESPONSIBILITY!!!!


I can not do this on My Own, I need your help. This is a team effort. Specifically what do you want me to do within my Power as Mayor under the O.R.C., I need the help of Council because they hold the legislative power and authority to appropriate.

Important:
Identify Problems
Plan Solutions
Implement

Hard Financial Times, Mean Options!!!

May 13, 2009

In response to questions regarding employment and business start up, I have came up with a list of contacts that may help. I encourage business and personal development in this area. I will assist anyone who is interested in opening a business or seeking additional training to provide for themselves and their families in the Lynchburg Area.

Sincerely,

Jeremy R. Shaffer

Highland County Chamber of Commerce
Katy Farber, Director 937-393-1111
Assistance with Business Plans, training, and development. SBA contact.
www.highlandcountychamber.com

Highland County Economic Development
Dan Cowdrey, Director 937-393-0339
Assistance with Government Funding and Strategic Planning within Highland County

Business Resource Center – Wilmington
Earl Gregory, Business Counselor 937-469-2058
Small Business Start Up, Career Training, Retraining, Seeking Employment, Retirement
www.backtoworkohio.com

Small Business Administration (SBA)
Bonnie Deer, 513-684-2814 X207
Assistance with Business Financing & Business Planning
Mondays on site 10AM-3PM National Bank & Trust

Southern State Community College Enterprise Center
Providing support, Tech assistance, and networking for entrepreneurs and business
937-695-9002 www.sscc.edu

The Ohio Small Business Development Center
Provides Confidential, free, in-depth business consulting
740-593-1797 www.southerncenter.ohio.edu

Appalachian Regional Entrepreneurship Group
Provides Customized consulting services to help start and grow business
740-593-1797 www.voinovichcenter.ohio.edu

SCORE
Service Corps of Retired Executives
Provides counselors to work with entrepreneurs and small business
513-684-2812 www.scoreworks.org/

Southern Ohio Procurement and Outreach Center
Provides help and assistance for business to sell to federal and state agencies
800-408-1334 www.sopoc.org
employment,

Tear it out at Someone Else's Expense

There has been a problem with a concrete pour at the Sewer Treatment Plant project. Apparently the concrete did not meet the specification of the project in the specification book or as interpreted in the prints, however the concrete did exceed the strength tests. According to the Engineer the Concrete needed a fiber reinforcement additive in order for it to work properly for its intended use. The total amount of the concrete that needed to be coated , if kept, or jack hammered out and replaced was approx. 4 yards. The concrete may have worked, however it would need to be inspected annually and possibly coated with a concrete coating referred to as Xypex. This may have cost added maintenance, and problems due to freeze and thaw of sewage. This area would have been submersed in sewerage at all times during normal plant operation. I have copied below a list of questions in which I asked of the contractor when I was asked to accept this. I did not accept this and it was the opinion of the Engineer, Floyd Browne, that it be removed and replaced with the correct concrete per specification. This problem was not done deliberately from what I understand. I have also attached a second email in which I received a response from Floyd Browne, that the Village will not be held liable or have to pay any additional costs associated with the replacement of this concrete.

-----> BELOW IS A LIST OF QUESTIONS WHICH I SUBMITTED TO THE CONTRACTOR BEFORE THE CONSTRUCTION MEETING LAST FRIDAY REGARDING THE CONCRETE MISHAP
I spoke with two members of Council. Due to the fact this may have adverse affects in the future I am going to have to default this decision to Council. I can attempt to have the Chairman call an emergency Public Works meeting, and see what they would recommend. The Council Meeting approval could not happen until Thursday the 15th of the month.
I would recommend that a proposal is submitted in writing on behalf of Sunesis outlining the product, which i did review the specification. It needs to be something that is official, legal, and binding. Our legal counsel would have to approve it. I do know that the Council will take Floyd Browne and Burgess and Niple's recommendations into consideration. This is an important decision, and it will ultimatley affect the entire community.
Some questions I have and have been asked of me, from Two Council Members:
Who is going to inspect yearly for reapplication?
Who is going to reapply material?
Who is paying for this added maintenance?
Who is going to purchase the Xypex for future applications?
Who will stand behind the warranty of the product?
What if the product does not work and the warranty is void due to application issues?
Will the plant have to be taken offline for this maintenance in the future?
How long will the plant have to be shut down?
Can the system handle a shutdown?
Will it be easy to clean areas for reapplication if needed?
How clean does the area have to be during reapplication?
Who will be responsible for draining and cleaning for reapplication?
How long will the maintenance take if reapplication is needed?
What if cracks occur in the future and Xypex does not work?
How long is he warranty? (given the fact that the plant will be good for the next 20-30yrs)
What if a company who stands behind the warranty goes out of business? Is there a backup?



EMAIL BELOW REGARDING THE LIABILITY AND COST OF REPLACING THE CONCRETE. JIM DID REPLY WITH APPROVAL AND SAID THE EMAIL IS CORRECT AND THE VILLAGE WILL NOT HAVE TO PAY ANYTHING FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THE WRONG CONCRETE WITH THE CORRECT CONCRETE PER SPECIFICATION ACCORDING TO THE ENGINEER, WITH THE UNDERSTANDING OF THE CONTRACTOR.
Sent: Monday, May 11, 2009 9:02 AM
To: James J. Klamet
Cc: Fred Beery
Subject: Construction Meeting Follow Up from 5-8-09



Jim,
I thought about the Construction meeting over the weekend. I just wanted to be clear
what I understood and took away from the meeting on Friday. Today, weather permitting, Sunesis would be removing the concrete that was poured wrong per the specifications and replacing with the correct grade concrete. I believe from the meeting that everyone agreed that the concrete would not work, was not correct, and it either had to be removed or sealed. It was the recommendation of Floyd Browne that it needed to be removed and replaced with the correct concrete per the specifications and the plans. From my standpoint and on the Village of Lynchburgs behalf, I do not believe the Village government or community should be responsible in any way to pay for the unfortunate event of removing and repouring the concrete, that has to be done because it did not meet the specifications of the project portrayed within the plans and or spec book. I believe that the cost, if any should arise out of this re pour should be borne by the Contractor, Sunesis, and or Floyde Browne, the Engineer. In conclusion, from the Friday meeting it was clear to me the Village will not be burden with additional responsibility, costs, or liability for this issue, and that we have done everything within our power to maintain a project has been done in the best interest of the community and with quality workmanship.
Jeremy Shaffer
Village of Lynchburg
937-364-2241