Hubbard Council approves 2017 operating budget

By Sarah Lehr

slehr@vindy.com

HUBBARD

City council approved a 2017 operating budget totaling about $17 million at its last meeting of the year Monday night.

That budget includes $2,128,400 for the general fund and $1,623,700 for the police fund.

The city closed the 2016 fiscal year with a $1,029,358 balance in the general fund and a $10,689,063 balance overall.

In other business, council nominated Ray Fallen to serve another three-year term on the board of the Eagle Joint Fire District.

Council received only one other application – from Mike Mogg. Law Director Mark Villano advised Mogg’s appointment could create a conflict of interest since Mogg is an actively serving firefighter.

Councilwoman Lisha Baumiller, D-3rd, who served as council president in the absence of William Williams, Sr., suggested council consider changing its policy to include saying the Lord’s Prayer before each meeting.

“I was at the [Trumbull County] commissioners meeting last Wednesday and I was really impressed,” she said. “Prior to their meetings, besides the Pledge of Allegiance, they say the ‘Our Father.’ I don’t know if anybody would be against doing that or if we’re allowed to do it, but it was really nice. You know, it doesn’t matter what denomination you are.”

Villano said he would look into the matter, but he believed there would be legality issues.

The Trumbull Mobile Meals program is seeking volunteers to deliver meals to elderly and disabled Hubbard residents. For information or to volunteer, call 330-394-2538. or visit www.trumbullmobilevisits.org.

Council’s next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Jan. 3. A 6:30 p.m. caucus session will precede the meeting.