Rossford voters will see three tax renewals for rec, fire on Nov. 5 ballot

Rossford voters will be asked to renew three tax levies that support recreation and the fire department.

City council on Monday approved the three issues to be on the Nov. 5 ballot.

The 2-mill recreation levy generates $261,713 annually, and costs the owner of a $15,000 home $105 a year, said Chris Kirk, city finance director.

The 1-mill levy for fire personnel raises $130,856 per year and costs the owner of a $150,000 home $52.50 a year.

The 2.8-mill levy for fire capital brings in $366,397 annually, and costs the owner of a $150,000 home $147 a year.

There was some confusion about the recreation levy, which was originally presented as two issues, at 1-mill each.

Erin Crawford, of Bruns Drive, asked council to hold off on the vote until it is certain this will not change the cost to the taxpayers.

“I would ask that you would wait until it’s clarified whether this is truly a renewal,” she said. “Or, with the combined millage, if it’s considered a new levy.”

“It’s a renewal,” said Kevin Heban, city law director.

Council voted unanimously to approve the issues. Councilmen Zachary Owens and Brenna Reynolds were absent.

In other business, Caroline Eckel, council president, asked to move the body’s first meeting in August from Aug. 12 to Aug. 5. This is in case legislation is needed before the Aug. 7 deadline for Nov. 5 ballot issues, she said.

After the meeting, Ms. Eckel said no additional Rossford ballot issues are expected.

“It’s just if something comes back from the county, just like they requested we make these ... changes tonight,” she said.

Council also canceled the July 22 meeting.

Also at the meeting, council approved closing Bergin Avenue around Danny’s Cafe, 600 Dixie Hwy., on a date to be determined this fall.

Allyson Murray, city administrator, said the bar and restaurant owners are planning to bring a “national act” in to perform and have a large event to celebrate the grand opening of its expansion and renovation.

Council appeared hesitant to make a motion, and Mayor Neil MacKinnon III said the owners “just put $4.5 million into our downtown.” The motion was approved unanimously.

Council also approved an outdoor area at Moe’s Place, 620 Dixie Hwy.