Water rate measure gets 2nd reading

STRUTHERS -- City council gave second reading to an ordinance that sets the rates at which Aqua Ohio will sell water to the city and its residents through December 2008.
Third Ward Councilman Daniel Yemma cast the single no vote to Thursday night's reading, which came with cautions and questions from Council President Robert Carcelli.
Carcelli warned council members during the session and the caucus meeting preceding it that they should consider what might happen if Aqua takes over Campbell's water treatment plant or if the company leaves the area.
Sent back
In their last meeting of the year, council members also sent two other ordinances back to committees for revision -- one about health care co-pays for city employees and officials, and another concerning street light adjustments.
In closing comments, Auditor Tina Morell and several council members expressed gratitude for the work of Treasurer Thomas Sweder, who ended his 28 years in that position by submitting his November report and thanking the community for its support.
The meeting also was the last for Carcelli and Councilmen Bert Cene Jr. and Dexter Hollen.