St. Marys Council Advances Street Reconstruction Funding and Grant Applications

St. Marys City Council took action on several measures involving street reconstruction, grant funding and city ordinances during its Monday evening meeting.

Mayor Joe Hurlburt said council gave first reading to emergency legislation authorizing the city to seek financial assistance from the Ohio Public Works Commission. The funding would support a street reconstruction project covering portions of Jackson Street, West Spring Street and Concord Avenue.

The city expects to receive approximately $490,000 through the Ohio Public Works Commission to help finance the project.

Council also heard the first reading of legislation authorizing notes in anticipation of bonds for the 2026 street program. Hurlburt said the city initially covers approximately $53,000 in property-owner assessments connected with the work. Property owners may pay their assessment in full or have it added to their property taxes over a five-year period.

Another emergency resolution would authorize the city to apply for an Ohio Department of Transportation Transportation Alternatives Program grant for the fifth phase of the Spring Street reconstruction project. The estimated $4 million project would extend from the east side of the river bridge to Chestnut Street and is not expected to begin until approximately 2030 or 2031.

Council also advanced two items to third reading. One would update the city’s codified ordinances to remain consistent with changes to the Ohio Revised Code. The other would accept tax amounts and rates established by the Auglaize County Budget Commission and certify them to the county auditor.

A separate resolution would officially clarify the name of Yorkshire Court. Although the roadway has long been known as Yorkshire Court, county records identify it as Yorkshire Drive. The resolution would allow the county plat to be corrected.

Council entered executive session to discuss property acquisitions but took no action after returning to regular session.