Fort Recovery Village Council Wraps Up 2025 Business, Sets Stage for 2026 Projects and Leadership Changes

FORT RECOVERY — Fort Recovery Village Council met Monday, December 15th, for its regular session, approving legislation, recognizing community efforts, and preparing for upcoming leadership transitions, Village Administrator Randy Diller reported.

Mayor Kaupp highlighted the recent Christmas Light Contest winners at the Fort Recovery Radio Christmas Gala and praised the village for its festive displays this year.

Council also met with four residents interested in the two council seats that will open next year. Decisions on the appointments are expected at the council’s first meeting of 2026, scheduled for January 5th.

Several key legislative items were passed, including fund transfers, finalizing 2025 appropriations, and setting temporary 2026 appropriations. A resolution also gave the Ohio Department of Transportation approval to move forward with a systemic sidewalk improvement project, which will reach the bidding stage in January and see construction this summer.

Council finalized the wage ordinance and approved amendments to income tax policies reflecting the 1.5% rate increase approved by voters in November.

Infrastructure projects were a major focus. Kleinfelder Engineering was approved to complete the final design for the lagoon study, while the water plant study nears completion and will soon be submitted to the Ohio EPA. A third well site will be added, with Quinter Well Drilling and Egan & Associates contracted for $83,000 to finalize the work. Right-of-way consultant Dennis A. Zaccardi and Associates was approved to help with school route improvements.

Diller also noted progress at the village park, updates from the Cemetery Board on pricing and regulations pending council approval, and the records commission confirming that all records are in good order.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the council honored outgoing members Cliff Fundo, with 12 years of service, and Eric Feeley, who served 10 years. Aaron Ringers was appointed as the new village administrator, effective January 1st, with Diller set to retire at the end of February.

The next council meeting is set for January 5th, 2026, at 7:30 p.m.