LEETONIA Village officials seek residents to join planning commission

Officials are trying to decide what to do with the former Sky Bank building.
By NANCY TULLIS
VINDICATOR SALEM BUREAU
LEETONIA -- Officials are seeking residents interested in serving on the village planning commission.
Mayor Artie Altomare and village Administrator Gary Phillips have been discussing the need to form a planning commission. The commission would consist of five members, including Altomare, one council member and three residents.
Councilman Steve Clunen said Wednesday that the planning commission is needed because of the many projects under way -- including the developing industrial park -- and the potential for growth of the village.
Altomare said anyone interested in serving on the planning commission should notify him or village clerk Judy Garlough by phone or letter.
Dispatchers needed: Police Chief John Soldano told council he again needs of part-time dispatchers. Several resigned last year, but were replaced.
Soldano said most often dispatchers resign to accept full-time jobs or part-time positions elsewhere at better pay.
Council also discussed the possibility of selling the former Sky Bank building on Main Street. Bank officials donated the building to the village last year when they closed the branch office there.
Altomare said village officials had hoped to use the building for village offices, but the improvements needed would not be cost effective.
Council members are talking to real-estate agents and county officials about the building. They said the building could be sold or used as a community center.
Council members said federal or state grants may be available for improvements if the building is to be converted to a community center.