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Struthers begins improvements to city hall security
By Sarah Lehr
STRUTHERS
The city has implemented several improvements to city hall security, as recommended by a committee composed of city council members and other city officials.
Workers have installed an intercom system and cameras in the police department interrogation room. They also have installed an intercom system at the front door of city hall and the rear garage door. Additionally, there now are cameras covering all outside doors, according to a report submitted to city council by Safety-Service Director Ed Wildes.
These improvements cost about $3,000, Mayor Terry Stocker said.
Committee members have worked with consultant Robert Pace, formerly director of corrections for the Cuyahoga County Jail, to tighten up city hall security. Though city council initially hired Pace specifically to audit the jail in the basement of city hall, Pace has since expanded the scope of his inquiry to include the entire building.
City officials are considering proposals for additional safety measures, including more smoke detectors, new doors and locks and a swipe-card access system.
In other business, council is reviewing an official ethics policy for city employees and officials. City Auditor Christina Bohl introduced the policy, which is based on a template from the Ohio Ethics Commission, earlier this month.
State law requires that any public official or employee receive a copy of the relevant section of Ohio ethics law within 15 days of beginning their official duties.
“It’s something that we probably should have on hand,” Bohl said of a city ethics policy.
Among other standards, the city’s proposed policy prohibits soliciting or accepting “anything of value” from anyone doing business with the city. It also prohibits using a public position to obtain benefits for oneself or a family member.
Council voted Wednesday to send the policy to a third reading. It likely will vote on final passage at the next regular meeting, Oct. 12.
At the request of council, Police Chief Tim Roddy completed a traffic study of Wilson Street between 8th and 5th Streets, which is near Struthers Middle School. Council is considering restricting parking in the area and will discuss the issue further during a committee meeting beginning 6:15 p.m. next Wednesday.
Colleen Mayeaux, a resident of the 100 block of Wilson Avenue, expressed concern during this week’s council meeting about speeding and children skateboarding in the street near her home.
The mayor said he would increase police presence in that area.