The Village of West Salem Board met Monday, April 27th with Mayor Jeffrey Bradham outlining a series of accomplishments during his “State of the Village” report.
Among the highlights, the village recently purchased a new fire truck and received notice of a $1.2 million U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to replace water mains. Additional improvements included installation of a new welcome sign with landscaping and lighting, as well as completion of the Mill Park Project, which added two pickleball courts and refurbished existing tennis and volleyball courts. The Mill Pond Project was also completed with the help of grant funding.
Several personnel changes were announced, including the appointment of Jacob Quillen as a part-time police officer. Jason Arnold was named Chief of the West Salem Fire Department, with longtime Chief Harvey Fenton transitioning to Assistant Chief. Additional fire department appointments include Evan Thomson as secretary, Dustin Leek as chaplain, and Brandon Bare as training officer.
The board also approved several reappointments, including Darrin Rice of the Fyie and Rice Law Office as village attorney, Paul Muhs of Charleston Engineering as village engineer, Tod Goble as superintendent of water and sewer, and Mark Weber as chief of police.
In other business, the board approved a $6,750 bid from Case Excavating and Brush Control to demolish a structure at 105 South Broadway. Members also approved the purchase of a rotary cutter for public works from S&N Partners for $10,500.
The board heard a presentation from Averi Goodman regarding a new business, Village Courtyard, planned for 108 West South Street. Goodman requested tax increment financing (TIF) assistance for equipment, landscaping, and building improvements. The proposal was approved to be sent to Moran Economic Development for formal review and an economic impact study.
Additionally, the board approved a resolution for the annual West Salem Chowder event, scheduled for Saturday, August 15th.
The next regular meeting of the West Salem Village Board will be held Monday, May 18th at 6:30 p.m. at Village Hall in West Salem. All meetings are open to the public.