The Lithopolis Village Council held its regular meeting on March 24, where members discussed updates to the village zoning code, utility payment enforcement options for rental properties, and a new community program. Mayor Eric Sandine and council members addressed several agenda items with public participation from local residents.
The meeting covered decisions that affect both village governance and quality of life for residents. Council reviewed a presentation by Jeremiah Blake and Laura Blake from the American Legion about the Hometown Hero Banner Program. A motion to move forward with this program passed unanimously among council members present.
Mayor Sandine provided a color-coded map outlining proposed changes to the zoning code. The council discussed designating areas as R1, R2, R3, or Mixed Use, ultimately agreeing to include commercial use in certain residential zones. The mayor also shared information regarding Ohio House Bill 92 concerning liens on rental properties for unpaid utilities; council debated possible strategies for ensuring renters pay their utility bills.
Chief of Police W.J. Barton reported that a new officer is currently in training and expected to begin independent duty by April. During roundtable comments, S Greene suggested selling the old firehouse at 3/5 Columbus Street to generate tax revenue; however, no second was received for this motion after Mayor Sandine referenced a previous resident survey favoring continued village ownership.
Lithopolis is recognized as the City of Stone due to its historic building stone deposits according to the official website. The village has been serving its citizens since 1814 as part of Fairfield County in Ohio through statutory government structure offering services such as utilities and police protection while collaborating with partners like Bloom Township Fire Department for emergency services according to the official website. Community facilities such as the Wagnalls Memorial Library are maintained alongside events like Honeyfest which enhance local life according to the official website.
Looking ahead, Lithopolis continues its commitment to responsive local government service for residents, business owners, employees and visitors while working closely with regional partners across Fairfield County according to the official website.
