Barnesville Council Work Session – August 12, 2024

At this work session, attended by councilmembers Tony Johnson, Robyn Misner, Terry McCort and Les Tickhill, Mayor Jake Hershberger announced Brian Yarnall tendered a written resignation as a member of the Economic Development Committee. Hersberger gave no reason for the resignation, announcing he would appoint another member of council to the position on August 26.

Hersberger discussed the current situation of the long-closed Ray Palmer Hiking Trail at Memorial Park. Development of the trail, that also included exercise stations, was funded by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources about 40 years ago.

Palmer, longtime owner and operator of the Barnesville Enterprise, was active in Ohio Republican circles serving in the Ohio Senate, longtime secretary of the Ohio Bridge Commission, and as executive secretary of Ohio Auditor James A. Rhodes before Rhodes served four terms as Ohio Governor.

The trail is closed due to excessive vegetation, trail surface conditions, and a foot bridge across a gully that is not safe.

“Does it get used? Do we let it go? Is it a legacy (project)?” Hersberger asked.

Councilmember Terry McCort questioned the value of the trail citing it steep terrain and that the trail around Rotary Park Lake is used often and a better trail.

Village Administrator Roger Deal told members that there are grant funds available through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, but each requires engineering drawings prior to applying for the funds.

Pultney Avenue resident Fred Fowler said he felt people would use the trail if it were brought back.

Deal reached out to an area contractor receive a quote for the work. It would run between $20,000 to $25,000 to rehabilitate and repair the trail and bridge. However, Deal said village employees could tackle the work during the winter season when vegetation is dormant.

The consensus was to try to complete the work in-house.

Fowler also questioned members if there are any plans to deal with increased traffic along Pultney Avenue near the hospital where the village is developing additional ball diamond. He also asked if there has been any discussion/coordination with the Warren Township Trustees whose garage and office is located at the end of the road.

At this time, efforts have been centered on developing the fields, not traffic, Fowler discovered.

Mayor Hershberger said he was contacted by residents of Park Street who live near Shamrock Stadium about recently removed No Parking signs near their driveways. When games are held at the stadium, the parking restrictions assure access to their homes. It is possible school district maintenance employees removed the signs. Deal said they would be returned or replaced.

The Village Council’s next meeting will take place on Monday, August 26 in the municipal building at 7:00. The meeting is open to the public.

The agenda for the meeting is currently posted on the village website.