Barnesville Council Talks Variances, Leaf Pick-Up and Water Agreement
Barnesville Village council approved permits, discussed annual leaf pick-up and approved an extended water agreement at Monday evening’s council meeting.
Council member Tim McKelvey was absent from the meeting.
Before Fire Chief Tim Hall was okayed to clear two permits for a new home by Michael Muffet Jr., at 503 Dorsey Ave., and demolishing a house at 775 E. Main St. for Joel Braido, a discussion ensued regarding the 10-foot property set-back enacted by village council last year.
Village Administrator Roger Deal told council, Muffet left a message in his office, requesting a copy of the ordinance requiring the 10-foot property setback for any structure built in the village. The ordinance also outlines minimum lot size requirements. Council adopted the ordinance in June 2024.
Muffet doesn’t like the ordinance, Deal explained. The rule does not apply to Muffet’s current permit application because he is following the ordinance guidelines, and his structure will be 10 feet from the property line. He is concerned for the future as the rule may hinder him from building on some of his lots.
Mayor Jake Hershberger said the goal of the ordinance is not to have houses too close together.
A variance is an exception granted to a property owner that allows the owner to deviate from a specific requirement of the village ordinance.
Deal continued to press the question of whether the ordinance may be too strict, Hall said council should direct him and Deal to investigate it further.
“We should have a conversation,” Hall said. “We would like to revisit some of this, so we can adjust.”
Council decided it needs more discussion on the ordinance.
“I think what you’ll find is everybody’s going to be asking for variances,” Deal said, “and you’re just going to go through the process over and over and over.”
WATER AGREEMENT
Deal discussed the water agreement with Antero Resources. The village extended the agreement with the company for a third time for the one-year agreement. The company plans to draw water in March or April 2026. The new extension runs until March 14, 2027.
Council approved Deal signing the agreement.
VILLAGE ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
Deal asked council to authorize the annual bulk chemical bid, which is done every year around this time. Council approved, 5-0.
Deal also asked the council to sell by bid the 2006 Ford F5 50 one ton dump truck. Deal said the truck is not being used. Council approved.
ANNUAL LEAF PICK-UP
Deal reminded council and residents of the annual leaf pick-up day. Barnesville Public Works will be picking up leaves contained in paper, biodegradable or compostable bags. No plastic trash bags will be accepted. Collection began Oct. 20 and will run until Dec. 13. Deal added there is no longer a drop-off point at the Depot this year.
MINUTES
Council approved the meeting minutes from the Oct. 6 meeting.
FINANCE
Council approved fiscal officer Jeannie Hannahs’ request to pay bills and invoices totaling $146,538.98.
NEXT MEETING
The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Nov. 3.
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