St. Marys City Council wraps up 2025 with final meeting, passes multiple ordinances and resolutions

To hear Mayor Hurlburt:

Click Here

ST. MARYS — St. Marys City Council held its final meeting of 2025 this week, approving a wide range of ordinances and resolutions dealing with employee contracts, budgeting, city operations, and future planning, according to Mayor Joe Hurlburt.

Hurlburt said the meeting included 14 ordinances and two resolutions, many of which were handled under emergency provisions so they could take effect Jan. 1. Several of those items involved wages, benefits, and contract-related matters tied to union agreements that expire at the end of the year.

Among the items approved were emergency ordinances setting wages and benefits for fire department employees not covered by collective bargaining agreements, supervisory and non-represented city employees, and fire and EMS personnel. Council also approved updates related to employees represented by Utility Workers Union of America Local 552.

Council also addressed downtown parking concerns after a local business owner raised issues and requested that the Streets and Sidewalks Committee review the matter. That discussion is expected to take place after the start of the new year.

Two ordinances received second readings and will move to third readings at council’s first meeting in January. These include emergency legislation for appropriations covering city expenses for the 2026 fiscal year and authorization to purchase materials, equipment, and services for city departments.

Several new ordinances were introduced and passed to meet year-end requirements, including legislation to balance the city’s 2025 budget, as required by Ohio law. Council also approved an ordinance authorizing the rollover of a $1.65 million note related to a city building project.

An emergency ordinance was also passed to adopt a cybersecurity program, following state requirements under House Bill 96. Mayor Hurlburt said the city’s IT administrator reviewed the plan with council and outlined steps being taken to protect city infrastructure.

Council additionally approved legislation allowing the city to advertise for bids on several city-owned lots that may be sold, as well as an emergency transfer of funds to support operation of the city swimming pool.

A resolution was also approved updating the city’s classification plan, including title and position adjustments within departments such as water and wastewater, in connection with union contract changes effective Jan. 1.

Hurlburt said the meeting closed out a busy year for council. He thanked staff and council members for their work and wished residents a happy, safe, and blessed New Year.