EPA program could aid Overholt Addition

DAVE MOSIER/independent editor

After years of trying to fit the square peg known as the Overholt Addition into the round hole of state sewer financing criteria, the Van Wert County Board of Commissioners is looking wistfully at funding possibilities via a proposed program from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.

Two consultants, Craig Mescher of Fanning/Howey and Ron Puthoff of Community Development Services met with the commissioners on Tuesday to discuss upcoming legislation that could result in forgiveness of 50 percent of the principal for new sewer projects.

Commissioner Gary Adams said he and his colleagues hope the program would assist with funding sewer improvements in the Overholt Addition, which doesn’t meet most current criteria for funding because not enough residents living there meet low- to moderate income requirements.

Also Tuesday, the commissioners accepted a bid to purchase older model firearms belonging to the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Department. Kremer’s in Celina was the high bidder at $7,650 to purchase 20 revolvers and five rifles from the sheriff’s department.

Other bidders included Blackwing Inc. of Delaware, $6,009; Kiesler’s of Jeffersonville, Ind., $4,950; and D&D Armory of Van Wert, $5,250.

Adams said all bidders for the weapons had to be licensed firearms dealers.

The commissioners also approved a recommendation by County Job and Family Services Director Mary Beth Holtsberry to promote Deanna Lugabihl to Holtsberry’s old position: deputy director of family stability. The appointment will be effective September 4, although there is also a six-month probation period for the job.

Adams said Lugabihl, who has a bachelor’s degree, has been a social worker in the Job and Family Services Department for 12 years.