Celina Council Approves School Service Agreements, Police Radio Purchase; Residents Raise Concerns Over Ball Fields

CELINA - The Celina City Council approved several ordinances Monday night, including agreements with Celina City Schools for emergency medical and police services at school events, while also hearing public concerns about the condition of the city's baseball fields.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, Celina resident David Weitzel urged council to invest in improvements to the baseball and softball diamonds at Eastview and Westview parks. Weitzel said deteriorating field conditions, damaged fencing, weeds, tree debris and aging dugouts create safety concerns for young athletes and make it difficult for the community to attract travel baseball tournaments.

Council members discussed current funding for park maintenance, with city officials noting the parks maintenance budget covers routine upkeep but does not include larger improvements such as additional infield material. Several council members expressed support for reviewing park needs through future Parks and Recreation Committee discussions.

Council also heard comments from residents regarding trees within the city and concerns about license plate reader cameras operated by the Mercer County Sheriff's Office. City officials clarified the cameras are owned and operated by the sheriff's office and were not approved by the city.

Council unanimously approved an ordinance authorizing the city to enter into an agreement with the Celina City Schools to provide on-site emergency medical services at school events. Safety Service Director Jeff Hazel said the agreement expands on services the city has already been providing and creates a single agreement covering all applicable events.

Council also unanimously approved a similar agreement authorizing the city to provide police services at school events.

In other action, council approved the purchase of an additional Motorola portable radio for the Celina Police Department through Sunny Communications.

Council also gave final approval to three previously introduced ordinances. One rezones property at 110 North Cherry Street from General Business to Medium Density Residential. A second rezones property owned by Cooper Hatchery on Industrial Drive to Manufacturing District. The third restructures the Celina Fire Department command staff by eliminating one battalion chief/paramedic position and creating one assistant fire chief position.

The Celina City Council's next regular meeting will be held at City Hall.