MOUNT VERNON — City inspector Scott Zimmerman thanked Mount Vernon residents for responding to the city’s code enforcement efforts.
“They are responding in a very positive way, the majority of them are,” Zimmerman said. “They’re getting their vehicles either registered or getting them removed or getting them put where they need to be.
“We’ve had some properties that have been issues over the years, and we’re seeing a positive change in those,” he added.
The city has handled more than 480 code enforcement cases since April 7. Some cases are open, while others are closed.
The code enforcement department took over solid waste management on Oct. 1. Previously, the police department handled those responsibilities.
“Hopefully, by the end of the month, I’m going to reach out to all of the solid waste haulers in the city to get together. I want to have a meeting with all of them so we can work out any questions they might have with the ordinance change and the permitting and the governing over that,” he said.
Zimmerman does not anticipate problems.
“I’ve talked to a few of them already. They’re pretty responsive,” he said.
Zimmerman reminded residents to check with the city if they are considering building anything on their property. Residents can call code enforcement at 740-393-9577 or engineering at 740-393-9528.
“A lot of times people don’t realize you need to get a permit for certain things, like if you’re putting down a concrete driveway or something like that,” he said.
Citizens can apply online or visit the engineering department at 40 Public Square.
Mount Vernon Police Department
Assistant Chief Andrew Burns reported that the department handled 1,586 calls in September. Roughly one-third, 586, are traffic stops.
“We continue to have a pretty good balance of the proactive enforcement with the reactive enforcement,” he said.
“Other numbers have stayed fairly consistent, crimes against property, things like that, no major increases there.”
Burns said many of the increased special details were escorts. That includes special-duty requests from organizations and individuals who host community events and require security or traffic coverage.
Sgt. Nicholas Myrda received the Blue Line Award at the state attorney general’s training symposium in Sandusky. Dena Hess received the Victoria Allen Citizenship Award.
“We are really proud of them and proud that they can represent our community the way they do,” Burns said.
The assistant chief noted ongoing grant applications, an “exploding” PAK United program, and Myrda’s community outreach.
Mount Vernon Fire Department
Chief Chad Christopher reported the MVFD handled 508 emergency calls in September. That brings the yearly total to 4,721.
The department will hold its annual open house Oct. 9 from 5 to 7 p.m. in conjunction with Fire Prevention Week. This year’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety.”
Christopher said it relates to lithium-ion batteries in the home and safety when charging and disposing of them.
Children are encouraged to attend in costume. Air Evac will attend, weather permitting. The event also features the traditional smoke house and fire hose spray.
Christopher reminded citizens that Ohio’s burn ban in the unincorporated areas is in effect for October and November. No open burning is allowed between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
“Within the city, you still have to follow the EPA and our burn regulations,” he said. “There is absolutely no burning of leaves or even your branches that are falling down. Those all have to be taken to Thayer Road or put at the curb for the city to pick up.”
Mayor Matt Starr suggested chopping up the leaves and using them for yard compost.
“That’s a good healthy use of of that natural resource, and it keeps leaves out of our storm system, too,” he said.
Training
Brian Krehel received his paramedic state certification and is in training. The station now has 43 full-time paramedics.
Kasey Swank and Andrew Dawson Neighbarger joined the department as part-time firefighters, and the MVFD continues to work on establishing the community risk reduction inspector and educator.
Four personnel are attending Fire Officer 2 training, and one will attend Arson Investigation 1 and 2. Department-wide, October’s training topic is fire attack and hazmat instances.
On the EMS side, the topic is pediatric respiratory emergencies.
The department completed hydrant flushing in the city and plans to complete flushing in Gambier this month. It will also conduct hose testing this month.
Administration
Mayor Matt Starr noted the ROTC Servitus event is slated for Saturday at Ariel-Foundation Park from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Junior ROTC programs from around the state participate in various events such as obstacle courses and rope bridges.
“It’s to challenge these young men and women to work as a team and figure out and problem solve and push themselves. It’s really always inspirational,” he said.