Mount Vernon News

DANVILLE — The Danville Village Council voted at its meeting Monday to place a levy on the November ballot. Council gave the third and final reading to a resolution placing an additional one-half percent income tax on village residents for specific use by the police department.

The money would be used for the police department and help pay for a second officer. Police Chief Monte Vance said that if the ballot does not pass, the village will be down to one officer in January.

“A half percent is a fair tax and this is a fair way to do it. I hope the village agrees,” said Vance.

Vance also reported on two youth programs with which the village police officers are involved. Twisted Spokes is a bicycle program where youths ride the Kokosing Gap Trail with officers, while Kids Against Drugs is a program done during the colder months. The programs have about 15 to 25 youths each week, but are in need of donations to help pay for them. Vance noted many businesses in Danville have been kind enough to donate to the programs.

“These programs are good for the kids. They build a rapport with law enforcement officers. By the time they are about 14 to 15, we can see good results,” he said.

Council also approved the expenditure of $4,472 for a new copy machine for the village offices. It will be from Graphic Enterprises and will replace the current eight-year-old model. Council approved splitting money from the sewer, water and general funds to pay for the machine.

In committee reports, Solid Waste chairman Gary Moreland reported the village would be sending letters to four property owners about various nuisances on the properties. Trash was a major concern at 202 S. Market St., 3 E. Walnut St. and 6 W. South St., while an old couch was placed near the road at 105 Plum St.

Village Administrator Robert Shipley reported the water line was put in on South Street with no problems. The line is charged and just needs testing before use. He commended the company that performed the work, G.D. Baker, and said work will begin on water, sewer and storm lines on North Market Street on Tuesday.

Shipley also noted the sidewalk contractor will return on Wednesday to finish the seeding and cleanup after the sidewalks were put in on Richards Street.

Mayor Bob Dile reported the bicycle race was a huge success in the village, and thanked everyone who helped.

Council went into executive session at 9:14 p.m. to discuss the purchase and sale of real estate. There was no further action.