City Council Approves Safety And Infrastructure Funding

In addition to the ordinance funding ongoing Big Four Depot renovation, Galion City Council considered other legislation at their Tuesday meeting.

Ordinances focused on enhancing emergency communication systems, supporting the fire department, and ensuring compliance with federal environmental mandates. Among the highlights were two grant approvals for public safety and an infrastructure study aimed at preventing costly stormwater issues.

Emergency Communication Upgrades Move Forward

Council members unanimously passed Ordinance No. 2025-4, allowing the Safety Service Director to apply for and accept funding from the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of State Fire Marshal. This grant, part of the Multi-Agency Radio Communication System (MARCS) program, has been a priority for several years.

The grant will complete a multi-phase transition from outdated analog radios to MARCS, ensuring seamless communication between emergency personnel, particularly in areas with weak signals. The funding requires no city match, making it a cost-effective solution for upgrading emergency response capabilities.

“This is the last piece of the puzzle,” officials stated, explaining that the grant will fund vehicle-mounted repeaters, allowing emergency radios to function effectively even in challenging environments like hospitals and nursing homes.

Fire Department Secures Federal Funding for Equipment

Ordinance No. 2025-5 was also approved, granting the Fire Chief and Safety Service Director the authority to apply for a FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant. If awarded, the city could receive up to $70,412 to replace aging hoses and equipment, particularly those frequently damaged at fire scenes, such as the South Street recycling center.

Given the competitive nature of the grant, city officials expressed confidence in their application, citing a strong history of securing similar funding. The council swiftly moved to suspend procedural rules, ensuring the ordinance’s immediate passage.

“This is a vital grant for our department,” officials noted. “It allows us to replace damaged equipment without impacting the local budget.”

Budget Adjustments Address Infrastructure and Health Department Needs

Budget appropriations were a central topic, with Ordinance No. 2025-6 authorizing various fund transfers. Adjustments included closing out a SAFER grant, allocating airport grant reimbursements, and transferring operational funds to the health department.

Council members emphasized the importance of clearing up financial records to ensure seamless grant funding and compliance with state and federal regulations. The motion to pass the ordinance was approved unanimously.

Ordinance No. 2025-7, which dealt specifically with appropriations for health department grants, prompted discussion on the potential impact of federal funding suspensions. While some members expressed concern over possible delays in reimbursement, officials reassured them that grant-backed services remain secure for now. The ordinance was amended to correct a clerical error before passing without opposition.

EPA-Mandated Stormwater Study Approved

A major infrastructure-related topic of the night was Ordinance No. 2025-8, which allocated funds for an EPA-mandated No Feasible Alternative Analysis. The study aims to map out stormwater infiltration into the sanitary sewer system, a persistent issue that has led to costly surges at the wastewater treatment plant.

“This is a compliance issue, but also an opportunity to identify inefficiencies and prevent future costs,” the mayor stated. “The study will help us understand where stormwater is improperly entering the sewer system, potentially leading to expensive repairs down the line.”

The study will also assess sump pump connections, with officials noting that some homeowners may unknowingly contribute to the problem by improperly draining water into sanitary lines. The council approved the funding, citing the need for long-term planning.

Other Business and Upcoming Discussions

The meeting concluded with discussions on committee schedules and a potential adjustment to local pool pass rates. With other recreational facilities raising fees, city officials noted the need to assess whether local rates remain competitive. However, council members opted to delay formal discussions until March.

Meanwhile, concerns over federal funding interruptions will be closely monitored, with officials promising updates as new information becomes available.

The next city council meeting is scheduled for early February, with infrastructure planning expected to remain a key topic of discussion.


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