by Marty Trese, KnoxPages.com editor
MOUNT VERNON — After a year where the city of Mount Vernon saw the fire chief resign and the police chief retire during a state investigation into the MVPD, Mayor Dick Mavis says things are moving forward to hire new heads of the safety forces. Former fire Chief Chris Menapace left last summer and after months of testing, the new chief will likely be named this week or early next week.
A competitive test will be given to determine the next head of the MVPD. Acting chief Captain George Hartz is eligible to apply. He’s been the acting chief since last summer.
Om other subjects, Mavis tells KnoxPages.com that he is proud of the road projects completed in 2013, especially the West Chestnut Street/Sandusky Street intersection which was made wider to accomodate rigs hauling huge cargo units from Rolls-Royce. The demolition of the old bakery and gas station on Coshocton Avenue was also a highlight this year. That area will be converted to a new intersection in the future involving Yauger Road and Vernonview Drive.
Demolition is complete on the old PPG plantand that site will merge into the Ariel-Foundation Park. The mayor says residents can look forward to a ribbon cutting ceremony at the park next spring or summer.
On the other side of town, Panera bread is under construction on Coshocton Avenue adjacent to the Aldi and Wal-Mart parking lots.
To hear the interview with Mavis click here.
