Still Tax Time!!!

The Village Council passed the following Ordinances 2010-8 Glenavy Subdivision I/I Project, 2010-9 Phase 1 Sewer Plant Upgrade, 2010-10 Phase 2 Sewer Plant Upgrade. Each of these Ordinances was recommended by the Ad Hoc Committee and passed unanimously by the Council.
The Ad Hoc Committee was formed several months ago, and made up of 3 Council members and 3 members from the community. The Committee was charged with the duty of developing an assessment, or tax, that will be used only to pay back debt borrowed to build the State mandated/required Sewerage System and Plant Upgrades. These Upgrades will stop sewerage overflows into the creek and make Lynchburg compliant with State and Federal EPA regulations.
The Ad Hoc Committee looked at the current assessment practice, which was legally accepted one year earlier to repay the debt. They re-evaluated the situation and after months, and many meetings (with public involvement), they came to a new conclusion. The new assessment/tax will be on the yearly property tax from the County Auditor as before. The new assessment is based on sewer availability, lot/parcel size, and lot/parcel use.
The Administrator mailed out a certified letter, which is followed by a regular mailing explaining how this may affect property owners. This mailing was done as a recommendation of the Ad Hoc Committee and Council.
The Council additionally set up an Equalization Board. This board is directed to hear any appeals from property owners. This Board may make recommendations for additional changes on a case by case basis.
The Board will meet on July 5th and July 7th 2010. At this time the Board has not set any other meeting dates. They may not set any additional meeting dates.
IT IS IMPORTANT that if you wish to APPEAL your ASSESSMENT /TAX, that you call the Municipal Office 937-364-2241 and schedule a time during one of these days.
Please do not send me, or any of the Council Members, emails or requests individually as they will not be addressed. IT IS IMPORTANT that the request for an appeal is scheduled within a few weeks of receiving your certified letter. IMPORTANT: The request for an APPEAL has to be made to the Equalization Board. To schedule a time with the Equalization Board call the Municipal Office. 937-364-2241

Take a break from the heat, as summer is upon us. Enjoy the parks and playground around our area.

Jeremy R Shaffer, Mayor.

Meth Bust - Ciminals Keep Out

Please Find attached Press release and copy of Release below.
Keep up the hard work Chief Wooton.
Thank you,
Jeremy R Shaffer, Mayor
Village Office 937-364-2241 / Police Office 937-364-2241

On June 16, 2010 the Lynchburg Police Department and the Highland County
Sheriffs office went to 212 South Sycamore Street in the Village of
Lynchburg, in reference to a complaint of possible drug activity at the
residence. There were two subjects in the residence, John Mark Ervin, age
48 of Lynchburg, and Eric Daugherty, age 49 of Lynchburg. Upon search of
the residence, there was a sufficient amount of chemicals found that are
used in the manufacturing of Methamphetamine. Several other items were
seized in connection with drug abuse, and are being sent to the crime lab
for further analysis.
John M. Ervin was arrested and charged with possession of a schedule 1
controlled substance Felony 5, and possession of one or more chemicals
that may be used to manufacture a controlled substance in a schedule 1,
Felony 3. He appeared in Hillsboro Municipal Court on June 17, 2010 at
8:00a.m., where his bond was set a $70,000. Eric Daugherty was arrested
and charged with permitting drug abuse, and possession of paraphernalia
and drugs, and is scheduled to appear in Lynchburg Mayors Court on July 6,
2010.


Respectfully Submitted,

Chief Brandon J. Wooton
Lynchburg Police Department

Noxious Weeds and Parking In Front of a Stop Sign

The new Playground located at the intersection of Pearl Street and Sycamore is open. It seems to be bustling with families on a regular basis and is a very nice use of the space. I encourage everyone to take time to visit the playground.

Over the last month I have had several specific complaints regarding unmaintained properties. So to clarify I will have pasted the section below from the Ohio Basic Code which is adopted yearly by the Village, and is also supportive of the local Lynchburg Village Ordinance 2006-9. This is specific to mowing of property. As the funding, manpower and time is limited, the Village has enforced this law as a specific complaint arises. So, if there is an infraction that arises you feel is important, please report it so proper action can be taken.

93.40 KEEPING DOWN WEEDS.
(A) Any person owning or having charge of land within the municipality shall keep such property free and clear from all noxious weeds and rank vegetation and shall be required to cut all such weeds and vegetation on the lots owned or controlled by him or her at least twice in every year, once between June 1 and July 1 and once between August 1 and September 1.
(B) Noxious weeds and rank vegetation shall include but not be limited to:
(1) Any weeds such as the following:
Noxious Weeds
Apple of Peru Marestail
Buckthorn Mile-A-Minute Weed
Canada Thistle Musk Thistle
Columbus Grass Oxeye Daisy
Corncockle Palmer Amarantha
Cressleaf Groundsel Perennial Sowthistle
Curly Dock Poison Hemlock
Dodder Purple Loosestrife
Field Bindweed Quackgrass
Forage Kochia Russian Knapweed
French Weed Russian Thistle
Giant Hogweed Serrated Tussock
Hairy Whitetop (Ballcress) Shatter Cane
Hedge Bindweed Wild Carrot
Heart-podded Hoary Cress Wild Garlic
Horsenettle Wild Mustard
Johnsongrass Wild Onion
Kochia Wild Parsnip
Leafy Spurge
(2) Grapevines when growing in groups of 100 or more and not pruned, sprayed, cultivated, or otherwise maintained for two consecutive years;
(O.A.C. §§ 901:5-27-06, 901:5-37-01) (Rev. 2008)
(3) Bushes of the species of tall, common, or European barberry, further known as berberis vulgaris or its horticultural varieties;
(4) Any weeds, grass, or plants, other than trees, bushes, flowers, or other ornamental plants, growing to a height exceeding 12 inches.
In addition to complaints on noxious weeds, there have been specific complaints made regarding parking. In legislation passed this year in support of the Ohio Basic Code, Section 76, Village Ordinance 2010-3 sets a parking standard throughout the entire municipality. In my interpretation at this time, its say that under normal circumstances there shouldn’t parking in the street in Clinton Heights, Glenavy or the Maple View Subdivisions. In addition to this it is important that section 76.04 is followed to prevent accidents at intersections and other areas.
§ 76.04 PARKING PROHIBITIONS.
(A) No person shall stand or park a vehicle, except when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic or to comply with the provisions of this title, or while obeying the directions of a police officer or a traffic-control device, in any of the following places:
(1) On a sidewalk, except a bicycle;
(2) In front of a public or private driveway;
(3) Within an intersection;
(4) Within ten feet of a fire hydrant;
(5) On a crosswalk;
(6) Within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection;
(7) Within 30 feet of, and upon the approach to, any flashing beacon, stop sign, or traffic-control device;
(8) Between a safety zone and the adjacent curb or within 30 feet of points on the curb immediately opposite the ends of a safety zone, unless a different length is indicated by a traffic-control device;
(9) Within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing;
(10) Within 20 feet of a driveway entrance to any fire station and, on the side of the street opposite the entrance to any fire station, within 75 feet of the entrance when it is properly posted with signs;
(11) Alongside or opposite any street excavation or obstruction when such standing or parking would obstruct traffic;
(12) Alongside any vehicle stopped or parked at the edge or curb of a street;
(13) Upon any bridge or elevated structure upon a highway, or within a highway tunnel;
(14) At any place where signs prohibit stopping;
(15) Within one foot of another parked vehicle;
(16) On the roadway portion of a freeway, expressway, or thruway.
(B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
(R.C. § 4511.68) (Rev. 2004)
The previously mentioned sections are part of the law from the Ohio Basic Code. I have only brought these to everyone’s attention due to the fact that there have been concerns brought to my attention. These sections are in there entirety, however they are only small parts of the many governing rules, regulations, and Ordinances that are enforceable. I have tried to use common sense, and enforce laws on a case by case basis. There seem to be so many regulations that could be enforced that it is overwhelming and some what ridiculous. I hope this helps clarify some basic guidelines we should follow. Please take notice of this so that we can have a safe and clean community.

Jeremy R Shaffer, Mayor.

Sexual Offenders Living Within Lynchburg

I have received a few inquiries over the last couple months regarding Sexual Offenders living in the Village of Lynchburg. It seems there are two Tier II Offenders and one Tier I Offender registered and living within the Village corporation limits. Information regarding these offenders can be obtained through the Highland County Sheriff’s Department, or by viewing the Sheriff Departments internet site at www.highlandcoso.com

A Description of Tier I and Tier II :
Tier I Offender A person who has been convicted of one of the offenses listed under the Tier I chart. These registrants are required to verify their address annually for a period of fifteen (15) years. Those persons who were required to register prior to January 1, 2008 for a period of ten (10) years (sexually oriented offender) will have their registration time extended to meet the 15 year requirement.
Tier II Offender A person who has been convicted of one of the offenses listed under the Tier II chart. Persons in this classification are required to verify their address every 180 days for a period of twenty-five (25) years. Those persons required to register prior to January 1, 2008 for a period of twenty years (habitual sex offenders) as well as any offenders whose classification changed to Tier II will have their registration time extended to meet the 25 year requirement.
Chart of Offenses Regarding Tier I and Tier II.
TIER 1

1. 2907.07 Importuning

2. 2907.04 Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor, non-consensual and offender less than 4 years older than victim, not previously convicted of 2907.02, 2907.03, or 2907.04, or former 2907.12 (FSP)**

3. 2907.08 Voyeurism

4. 2907.06 Sexual Imposition

5. 2907.05 (A)(1)-(3), (5) Gross Sexual Imposition

6. 2907.323 (A)(3) Illegal Use of a Minor in Nudity-oriented Material or Performance

7. 2905.05 (B) Child Enticement with sexual motivation {new under SB 10}

8. 2907.32 Pandering Obscenity

9. 2903.211 (A)(3) Menacing by Stalking with sexual motivation {new under SB10}

10. 2905.03(B) Unlawful Restraint with sexual motivation {new under SB 10}

11. Includes an attempt, complicity or conspiracy to commit any of these offenses

12. Child-victim offender not in Tier II or III.
TIER 2

1. 2907.21 Compelling Prostitution

2. 2907.321 Pandering Obscenity Involving a Minor

3. 2907.322 Pandering Sexually Oriented Material Involving a Minor

4. 2907.323 (A)(1) and (2) Illegal Use of a Minor in Nudity-oriented Material or Performance

5. 2907.04 when offender is at least 4 years older; or when the offender is less than 4 years older and has prior conviction for 2907.02, 2907.03, 2907.04, or former 2907.12 (FSP)

6. 2907.05 (A)(4) Gross Sexual Imposition victim under 13

7. 2919.22 (B)(5) Child Endangering

8. 2905.01 (A)(1)-(3), (5) Kidnapping with sexual Motivation

9. 2905.01 (A)(4) Kidnapping victim over 18

10. 2905.02 (B) Abduction with sexual motivation {new under SB 10}

11. Any sexual offense that occurs after the offender has been classified as a Tier I offender.

12. Includes an attempt, complicity or conspiracy to commit any of these offenses

13. Pre-AWA Habitual offenders, unless re-classfied after hearing under ORC 2950.031 or 2950.032

The above Information all came from the Highland County Sheriff Departments website. Please Contact them for additional information. 937-393-1421

Unfunded Mandates Kill Small Community

Unfunded Mandates Kill Small Community

The Council meeting last night, Feb 11th, was attended by several people from the community in regards to the recent property tax assessment which will be used to pay for the EPA mandated sewerage upgrades. Even though this is a recent topic, the discussion for these improvements began in 1999. They began with an initial engineering review of the current Wastewater Plant and system. After much delay and lack of results in repairing minor issues, the EPA sent a notice of Violation in August of 2005 due to plant overflows, and it escalated from there. In, 2008 when litigation seemed eminent against Lynchburg for violations outlined in EPA Findings & Orders. The Village agreed to the EPA documents, and they were approved.
Lynchburg soon began on a mandated time line to upgrade the Wastewater facilities in two phases. Phase one included a pumping station or head works project, and Phase two which is currently underway, contained the clarifiers. The overall project was estimated at $4,039,283. This did not include an earlier 2008 project, which was the Glenavy Subdivision Sewer Rehabilitation Project which cost $114,500.
The Glenavy Project was instituted in 2007 to reduce I/I or inflow into the sewerage plant, which was determined as a factor causing plant capacity problems and raw sewerage overflows. This project was part of the overall repair to stop future system inflow and to assist in gauging the capacity of upgrades that will become a new plant.
On January 24th of 2009, the first Public meeting was held to discuss financing and payment options for Phase Two. Prior to that there had not been any arrangements made for long term debt repayment on Phase One, Two, or the Glenavy Rehabilitation Project. That was the start of a year long open discussion about debt repayment for these projects. Over the course of the year the Council discussed ways to pay for the project(s) which included property tax assessment, income tax (Lynchburg still does not have an income tax like most other Cities/Villages), grants, add the amount to the monthly utility invoices, pay it in full (with no money), or do nothing and let another government agency (Probably State of Ohio) come in and take over the mandated projects.
Over the course of the year, and even thus far in 2010, Lynchburg received ARRA (Stimulus) monies, and grants to reduce the project costs. The amounts that have to be paid back at this point by the local community are $114,500 for Glenavy Project, $580,332.40 for Phase I Sewerage Plant Project and $1,894,300 for Phase II Sewerage Plant Project.
After final Public Hearings advertised in August and held in September 2009. Council decided the best option was to guarantee repayment and secure the 0% loans for the balance of the project, was to do an assessment over all properties within the corporation. The two end options were the assessment over 900 plus properties or adding the same amount over an average of 600 utilities customers. Neither way was a clear cut and fair way for anyone involved.
To overview the project had to be done and was mandated by the EPA. If it was not completed Lynchburg would be assessed fines by the EPA and the project may have even been completed by another government agency, which still would have left the local community bearing the costs. The project has to be paid for by someone. Lynchburg did apply for grants and funding, and did receive $1,729,475.50 in monies that do not have to be paid back, which is large portion of the project.
The project had to be done, and it was important to stop raw sewerage overflows which were potential health hazards to the community. The reason it was important for the local government to take on the project instead of an outside agency is because of the overall cost. The local government did apply for many types of funding and so far has kept under budget as much as possible. An outside government agency, may have came in and built the plant and charged as was necessary with administrative costs. There would have also been fines, and litigation brought upon the local government by the State. So it makes sense for the local government to take on this large burden of the waste water plant project. The fact is, that there is not a way to repay the outstanding debt that is fair to everyone. Any course of action for repayment would have created higher rates for someone in the community.
Small communities need help and assistance through partnership from other government and non government entities. The Village of Lynchburg has been awaiting its “Bailout” for 30 years, not just the last 3 years. What makes this so hard to swallow, I believe, for the community and myself, is that everyone is still burdened with the long term debt from the original wastewater treatment plant built in 1983. I think we can all agree that sewerage overflow is bad, and unhealthy. It does make sense to repair that problem. What doesn’t make sense is the timing of this debt for the Village of Lynchburg. It doesn’t seem to be anyone’s fault, just a bad run of luck that has lasted since the first fish were found dead in Turtle Creek in 1965.
This letter doesn’t stop the fact that the debt must be repaid, and it is still an unfunded mandate. It doesn’t help the fact that the area is at an all time high in unemployment. It does not help the fact that property taxes are higher than they used to be. I hope what this letter does do is give a brief overview of everyone’s frustrations regarding this matter. The local elected officials did not intend to harm anyone, and made the best, open decision as they probably could. It is frustrating and would seem to anyone that the community cannot get its break. I welcome any assistance to resolve the plight of our community.

Jeremy R Shaffer, Mayor
Village of Lynchburg

Lynchburg Receives More Stimulus Funding & Completes Drinking Water Protection Plan

The Village of Lynchburg recently completed a Drinking Water Source Protection Plan. This is an action plan that identifies possible contaminants to the Lynchburg Drinking Water System and provides protective strategies. This plan was developed by the Drinking Water Protection Team which was composed of the Village Administrator Nicole Oberrecht, Water & Wastewater Supervisor Mark Suitor, and Scott Brown of the Ohio Rural Water Association.
I received a letter from Michael Eggert, Manager of the Ohio EPA Division of Drinking & Ground Waters. This letter commended the Lynchburg for “recognizing the importance of protecting its valuable ground water resource.” The letter formally endorsed the plan by the Ohio EPA. In addition, the Village received a framed certificate from the Ohio EPA.
I thank Nicole, Mark, and Scott for their hard work and continued efforts to keep and maintain our drinking water system in the Village of Lynchburg. Safe drinking water is very important to the health and quality of life in our community. The Lynchburg Drinking Water Source Protection Plan is available to review at the Lynchburg Municipal Building.
On, January 28th, I signed a revised disbursement schedule for ARRA (Stimulas) funding for the Village of Lynchburg. It increased the original amount of $1,602,000 by $127,475.50, to a new amount of $1,729,475.50. This simply means Lynchburg received more stimulus funding in January. The stimulus money is given to Lynchburg to offset the cost of the Wastewater Treatment Plant project Phase II, which is currently underway. This funding does not have to be paid back, and is in addition to the 0% loan monies given by the EPA – DEFA to complete this project. I spoke with Ken Timko, with Burgess and Niple Engineering, and the project is currently under budget. The project cost should be around 2.8 million, which is down from original estimations, which were around 3.5 million
This is good news to the local taxpayers, and I will continue to work to keep the local costs down as much as possible, as we continue toward completion of this unfunded EPA mandate. The bottom line is that the upgrades will provide us with a new sewerage treatment facility, and it will stop raw sewerage overflows during peak rain fall and flow times throughout the year. When the project is complete it will have a positive affect on the health and welfare of our community, as well as the area in and around the East Fork of the Little Miami Watershed.

Jeremy R Shaffer, Mayor
Village of Lynchburg, Highland Co.,Ohio

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

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.

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.

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,