Reduced rate approved for homestead exemption holders; DORA district debated

by Sue Serdinak

Sept. 30 village council meeting

Richfield Village Council followed up on its August decision to increase sewer rates for properties along the sewer line by passing an ordinance to reduce the rate for property owners who receive a homestead tax exemption.

According to Mayor Michael Wheeler, about 50 Richfield property owners receive an Ohio Real Property Tax Homestead Exemption. Those owners will receive a 40% reduction in the minimum rate that Richfield Village charges sewer customers.

Property owners must apply for the homestead exemption through the Summit County auditor. To receive the exemption, residents must be at least 65 years old or totally disabled and have an annual income of less than $36,000.

Wheeler said the reduction will cost the village about $18,000 per year.

The portion of a customer’s sewer bill that is charged by the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District will not be affected by the reduction.

Gas stations

Council passed an ordinance for the planning and zoning commission to review and recommend action on a proposal to ban future gas stations or truck plazas from opening in the village, or to impose a limit on the permitted distance between their locations.

The planning commission will have 60 days to vote and return a recommendation to council.

Council approved a moratorium on allowing gas stations and truck plazas to open in the village until April 2, 2025, or until legislation is drawn up and passed by council regarding the facilities.

Safety forces

Fire Chief George Seifert reported that a grant offered by the state to support wellness and retention programs for first responders has been discontinued in its second year. Seifert said state representative Bill Roemer worked to get the grant reinstated for Richfield for one year. The grant provides funds for up to six counseling sessions for safety personnel and their families for one year.

Council approved the appointment of Kalli Spisak to full-time police dispatcher.

Police Chief Michael Swanson reported that the department is forming a police honor guard. The department had an honor guard several years ago.

Construction updates

Planning Director Brian Frantz said that work will begin soon to install brick pavers on Grant Street and to expect traffic delays.

Service Director Scott Waldemarson reported that the pickleball courts south of Town Hall have received a first layer of asphalt. Wheeler said the courts should be ready for play at the beginning of October.

Several trees will be planted on the Green to replace those that have died.

Moment of Silence

Wheeler asked for a moment of silence for the passing of Nick Kostandaras, who served on council and the zoning board and who ran a unsuccessful campaigns for mayor in 1995 and 1999. He also served on Summit County Council.

DORA

Amy Nauer, assistant planning and zoning director, presented information about DORAs (Destination Outdoor Refreshment Areas). Nauer said many communities have embraced the districts since the state adopted legislation to allow them in 2015. Locally, Hudson, Cuyahoga Falls, Akron and Barberton have DORAs.

In a DORA, restaurant patrons are permitted to carry alcoholic beverages outdoors during specific time periods. The drinks must be carried in a designated, single-use DORA cup.  

Each DORA must be defined and at least two, but no more than three, restaurants can be included in a DORA in Richfield, based on population. A community can have more than one DORA.

Nauer said that Sunday liquor sales are not permitted, but on other days, beer, wine and liquor can be sold. 

A possible DORA district could include the Richfield Brewing Company, Olesia’s Taverne and Doug Out. Best Stop has an alcohol permit for carryout only and cannot be part of a DORA.

Councilperson Marty Kruszynski asked if other DORA districts in the state cross state highways.

Councilperson Jeff Stoppenhagen said he has been in DORA districts that are thriving, and some cross state highways.

“I don’t know what we’re trying to do here,” said Councilperson Rick Hudak. “With the two state highways and people carrying alcohol. I can’t fathom that we’re considering this.”

Councilperson Bobbie Beshara said that traffic moves slowly at the route 303-176 intersection.

Swanson and Seifert said they have public safety concerns and would contact other communities with DORAs to see how it is working for them.

“It is good for us to study this,” said council President Ralph Waszak. “I had some reservations. Our dynamics are a lot different.’’

Resident Ed Tishel said he suggested the idea. “I think people would enjoy the opportunity,’’ he said. “The people I’ve talked to think it’s a good idea. We may draw some people to the village.”

He said that Port Clinton has a very long and wide DORA district in a congested area that is very successful. Tishel added that he does not drink alcoholic beverages. ∞