Pool tax floated, firefighter contract passed, and a farewell to Ward 3
By Logan Andrew | FreeWire
Bucyrus City Council met Tuesday night with a full agenda that included infrastructure proposals, funding strategies, and the resolution of a contentious firefighter contract.
AVITA Expansion Moves Forward
Representatives from AVITA Health Systems presented plans to rezone three city-owned lots near Pleasant Hill Street to build a 15,000 sq ft orthopedic and therapy facility. The plan includes vacating a portion of Pleasant Hill and rerouting traffic through a newly constructed road. Council referred the request to the Platting Committee for further review.
Income Tax Levy Proposed for Pool Upkeep
Safety-Service Director Tommy Starner proposed a 0.65% income tax levy to generate an estimated $201,000 annually, designated strictly for maintenance and chemical treatment at the Aumiller Park Pool. The idea, reportedly originating from input from citizen Greg White, was referred to both Public Lands and Finance committees.
Council also noted the pool is set to open Saturday, May 24 — weather permitting. It will close early if attendance is low or if temperatures remain below 70°.
Finance & Liquor
The Finance Committee brought forward one item: Ord. 28-2025, reallocating $139,000 within the Waterworks budget to cover debt payments.
Council also unanimously voted not to oppose a new liquor license application for The Market at Pickwick Place.
Auditor & Safety Reports
Auditor Kali Lewis reported that she and Starner traveled to Columbus to advocate for a local government fund increase, which was approved (though modestly). April collections showed a 5.5% year-over-year increase, bolstered by $227,000 recovered from previous years’ taxes.
Police Report:
- 735 incidents
- 19 tickets issued (5 OVI arrests)
- Major bust at “Smokables” resulted in a trafficking arrest and grand jury indictment
Fire Report:
- 152 total calls, including runs in neighboring townships
Firefighter Contract Approved After Tense Debate
Council approved Ordinance 30-2025, finalizing a new union contract for the city’s firefighters. Firefighter Jeremy Gilliam addressed council to clarify the terms, noting the contract includes only a 1.5% raise — approximately 33 cents per hour — and warned the city was already outside the legal timeline for action under Ohio law.
Gilliam also criticized misinformation circulating publicly, and expressed concern that council’s repeal of the previous minimum staffing ordinance would have long-term impacts on service and insurance ratings.
Council passed the ordinance as an emergency with the required six votes.
YMCA Property Reconsidered
Council revisited the idea of accepting the YMCA property as a donation. The motion tied 3–3, with Council President Kurt Fankhauser breaking the tie in favor. The city is now authorized to accept the property if the offer remains open.
Hickman Bids Farewell
Councilman Zyan Hickman officially stepped down, having moved out of Ward 3. Councilmembers and residents thanked him for his service, and applications to fill the vacancy are being accepted by the Republican Party.
Also Noted:
- Council entered executive session to discuss property negotiations, litigation, and employee contracts.
- A complaint regarding herbicide spray drift near Garnet Court was referred to the law director.
- Reminder: Pancake Breakfast at the airport is Saturday, May 24, from 8 a.m. to noon.
Council adjourned at 9:11 p.m.
