ROSSFORD — City council is considering the use of the Ohio Attorney General’s Office for delinquent debt collection.
“The Ohio Attorney General has a free service for public agencies in Ohio where if you have anybody who is outstanding on their ambulance billings, for example… they will take any lottery winnings, state income taxes and any sportsbook winnings. The attorney general has the authority to take from those to reimburse the city,” Finance Director Chris Kirk said.
When he was with the city of North Baltimore they used the service.
“It was a good supplement and the residents didn’t have to pay for it, so yes, it was a good service. It was a good move,” Kirk said.
Three council member were absent from last week’s meeting, but excused. With Robert Ruse, Larry Oberdorf Sr. and council President Caroline Zuchowski-Eckel gone, no actions could be taken on the two ordinances that had first readings.
Also at the meeting, it was reported that the Ohio Department of Transportation has decided to use a design-build company for the rebuilding, widening and raising of the Lime City Road Interstate 75 overpass bridge. A company has not yet been chosen, but that type of company is considered to have the most expedient methods.
The overpass was hit on Feb. 10 by a load that was too tall, resulting in the current single lane situation.
Also at the meeting, council:
• Heard that the recreation department is moving forward on a kayak rental program at Veterans Memorial Park. A five-year agreement with the rental company has been approved by the city attorney.
Two new pieces of cardio equipment have been ordered for the recreation center.
The recreation center gym floor refinishing project will take place on May 16. The gym will be closed that day.
• Heard that the safety committee has recommended using the Attorney General’s office for EMS collections. The current billing company, CPS, is reportedly not responding to phone calls. Attempts to arrange a meeting have been made since last fall. Two competing quotes for the service came in at approximately half the rate of CPS.
• Heard that a discussion of the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area is scheduled for the April 10 council meeting.
