State of the City Report

Issued March 4, 2025 by Mayor Joel B. Day

 

New Philadelphia's Progress in 2024

Throughout 2024, New Philadelphia made significant strides in maintaining quality of life and managing growth, with improvements spanning city planning, infrastructure, economic development, and community initiatives.

One of the most impactful changes was the complete overhaul of the City’s zoning and planning code. Wendy Moeller of Compass Point Planning led a two-year project that modernized the code to align with the City’s Master/Vision Plan. This was the first update in 37 years and introduced four new residential zoning districts while clarifying existing regulations.

The City also continued implementing its Bicycle and Pedestrian Connectivity Plan. The three-mile Kent State Connector Trail was completed along East High Avenue, linking the Kent State University -Tuscarawas campus to downtown New Philadelphia via dedicated bike lanes. This project also included repaving East High from Trustees Boulevard to Market Street. Meanwhile, plans were underway for the first phase of the Roswell Bicycle and Walking Trail, with construction expected to begin in 2025. Additionally, Kent State University - Tuscarawas unveiled the latest segment of the John Richard Demuth Trail on campus.

Downtown New Philadelphia received a boost with a $2.9 million Appalachian Community grant to redesign three quadrants, making the area more attractive and fostering business growth. Construction is set to begin in summer 2025.

At Harry Clever Field, a $2.8 million project—funded by grants from the Federal Aviation Administration and ODOT-Aviation—relocated taxiways to meet FAA regulations and enhance runway safety.

Educational facilities also saw growth, with Buckeye Career Center breaking ground on a $6 million medical facility expansion. This new addition would house classrooms for nursing, medical assisting, and pharmacy technician programs.

The City’s parks underwent major renovations. At Tuscora Park, the Turf Tuscora Diamond organization funded a new outfield fence and electronic scoreboard for Field #1. RTY, Inc. completed extensive repairs on the Ferris wheel, acquired a new train engine and cars, and installed a new children’s Ferris wheel with support from a $10,000 Geib Family Foundation donation. Additionally, three new kiddie rides replaced the batting cages, and a historic marker was unveiled recognizing Tuscora Park’s significance in Ohio’s history. The Parks and Recreation Board also honored retired Parks Superintendent Rod Miller by naming the main pathway through the park “Rod Miller Way.”

At Southside Community Park, the New Philadelphia Youth Soccer Association and community supporters funded fencing, new dugouts, and bleachers for the high school soccer fields, while the City Service Department improved parking with a fresh layer of crushed stone. Waterworks Park saw the addition of new dugouts and a concession stand.

Community events flourished, including the first-ever Fall Trout Derby at Tuscora Park, organized by Jeff Miller and Mitch Pace. Over 100 young anglers participated, making the event a resounding success.

The City’s Health Department launched a successful tire recycling program, averaging 100 collected tires per month.

City leaders also took proactive steps in financial planning. A letter from the Mayor, Safety Director Greg Popham, and Fire Chief Jim Parrish informed Goshen Township Trustees of a planned cost increase for fire and EMS services in 2027, ensuring fair and equal payment for all residents.

Housing and economic development remained priorities. The City collaborated with the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation and developers Matt and Audra Karam to establish The New Philadelphia Housing Plan, which promotes first-time homeownership on vacant lots. Additionally, state officials, including Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik and Governor’s Office of Appalachia Director John Carey, visited the Howden/Joy redevelopment site to explore opportunities for state support. The site’s owner, the Tuscarawas County Economic Development and Finance Alliance, issued Requests for Proposals to attract developers and business owners.

The City Planning Commission worked closely with New Philadelphia Schools to determine the best locations for new high and middle schools, ultimately recommending that the new buildings remain at their current sites.

A new community organization, New Philadelphia Advancing Our Community Together (NPAct), was formed by local leaders dedicated to the City’s growth and prosperity. NPAct hosted monthly meetings to plan projects and events, including advocating for a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) downtown. City Council approved the Mayor’s application for a DORA, allowing alcohol consumption in designated areas during special events.

Several new businesses opened in 2024, contributing to the City’s economic vitality. Don and Susie Whittingham launched "The Delaware," a new music club at 112 Fair Avenue NE, quickly becoming a popular dining and entertainment venue. Willow & Fern Freeze Dried Candy & More opened at 169 North Broadway, while Keller Williams Legacy Group expanded downtown with a new office at 216 North Broadway. Lacey Herbert-Stephen relocated her Lacey PAC Adaptive Movement Center to 152 North Broadway rear and introduced a new women’s fitness center at 117 South Broadway. At New Towne Mall, Ashley Furniture took over the former JCPenney space, and "Flourish," a new daycare concept for working moms, also opened.

City government saw changes as well. Kris Kreinbihl, Tom Simmelink, and Mike Walker were sworn in as at-large City Council members. In June, longtime City Auditor Beth Gundy retired after 28 years of service, with her administrative assistant, Heather Denham, stepping into the role.

Despite progress, 2024 had its challenges. Emergency responders continued handling increasing calls related to mental health, substance abuse, and domestic issues. Inflation and supply chain shortages drove up operating costs, with some materials and equipment seeing price hikes of 30% to 100% and delivery delays extending up to two years. Additionally, a scorching summer prompted health warnings and the designation of cooling centers throughout the City.

Thanks to strong leadership, a resilient business community, and dedicated residents, New Philadelphia continued to advance in 2024. As the City entered the new year, optimism remained high for the future.

 

MAYOR’S ACTIVITIES IN 2024

• Conducted monthly staff meetings.
• Attended the monthly meetings of the City Parks and Recreation Board.
• Attended the monthly meetings of the Tuscarawas County Mayors Association.
• Attended the monthly meetings of the Tuscora Park Foundation Board of Directors, and as secretary, kept the meeting minutes.
• Attended the monthly meetings of the Tuscarawas County Regional Planning Commission.
• Attended the monthly meetings of HARCATUS Tri-County CAO, Inc. as a public sector representative.
• Attended the monthly meetings of the Tuscarawas County Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors and meetings of the Chamber’s Business Retention and Expansion Committee.
• As a member of the Tuscarawas County 9-1-1 Review Committee, voted to approve an equipment upgrade for the county’s emergency notification system.
• As president of the New Philadelphia City Health Department’s Board of Directors, presided over the Board’s monthly meetings.
• As a member of the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation’s Board of Directors, attended meetings of the board.
• Attended the monthly meetings of the New Philadelphia Advancing Our Community Together (NPAct) organization.
• Attended the quarterly meetings of the Stark – Tuscarawas – Wayne Recycling District Policy Committee.
• Attended the public meetings held by the NP Schools Facilities committee to learn about the need for new school buildings and its campaign to pass a construction bond issue.
• Participated in planning meetings with the FAA Detroit office for grant funding and improvements to Harry Clever Field.
• Participated in meetings with Designing Local to develop a redesign of downtown quadrants.
• Participated in the annual Arbor Day tree planting ceremony at the Southside Community Park.
• Participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony that opened the Warrior Boutique at 152 7^th Street SW. The shop provides support to local cancer victims.
• Participated in monthly Towpath Trail progress meetings with representatives from the Ohio and Erie Canalway Coalition, the City of Dover, and the Tuscarawas County Park Department.
• Spoke at the ceremony unveiling the Ohio Historical Society plaque at Tuscora Park.
• Conducted monthly meetings of the administration’s Property Review Committee to identify problematic structures in the City and recommend actions to eliminate them.
• Conducted the monthly meetings of the City’s Design Review Board.
• As chairman of the Ohio Mid-Eastern Governments Association’s board of directors, attended the annual three-day National Association of Development Organizations and the Development District Association of Appalachia conference in Washington D.C.
• Participated in the ground-breaking ceremony to mark the start of the construction of Buckeye Career Center’s new six-million-dollar medical facility addition.
• Represented the City at the ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the newest segment of the John Richard Demuth Trail on the KSU-Tuscarawas campus.
• Attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony to open Keller Williams Legacy Group Realty’s new Tuscarawas County office in downtown New Philadelphia.
• Helped establish the City’s partnership with housing developers Matt and Audra Karam, the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation and the US Department of Agriculture to create the “New Philadelphia Housing Plan” The plan would address the need for affordable workforce housing in New Philadelphia.
• Gave the oath of office to special police officer Mindy Craig.
• Presented a Certificate of Commendation to Tonya Shaneyfelt for her 28 years of service as a School Crossing Guard.
• Presented Certificates of Commendation to police officers Mitchell Gobley, Kyle Kelly and David Morris for their life-saving actions in response to emergency calls.
• Presented a Certificate of Commendation to firefighter Justin Heavelyn for his off-duty response to an elderly person in distress, performing live-saving CPR until paramedics arrived.
• Presented a Certificate of Commendation to Jim Exley upon his retirement from the City Cemetery Board and to recognize his long-time service as the City’s Cemetery Superintendent.
• Presented a Certificate of Commendation to Paula Lancaster, the Fire Department’s Community Assistance Resources & Emergency Services (CARES) coordinator, for helping an elderly resident find a new home after the death of the resident’s caregiver.
• Sent Ohio Senator Al Landis a letter supporting Preston Cornell’s application for State capital budget funding to build an Inclusive Playground at Tuscora Park.
• Sent State Representative Brett Hillyer a letter supporting Turf Tuscora Diamond’s application for State capital budget funding for its project to renovate baseball Field #1 at Tuscora Park.
• Per the Ohio Revised Code, appointed Heather Denham as the City’s acting Auditor upon the retirement of Beth Gundy.
• Presented The Timken Company with a Mayoral Proclamation to commemorate the company’s 125^th anniversary.
• Presented a Mayoral Proclamation to Flourish by Newsymom during its ribbon-cutting opening ceremony at New Towne Mall.
• Presented a Mayoral Proclamation to Rod Miller during his retirement party at Tuscora Park.

 

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT – Jami Bailey

Among the responsibilities of the Mayor’s Executive Assistant is to issue licenses and permits, and collect revenue generated from parking meters and fines. Here are the numbers from 2024:

• Number of vendors licenses issued –192
• Parking Permits issued – 403
• Solicitors and Handbill Permits issued – 27
• Garage Sale Permits issued – 265
• Internet Café Licenses issued – 1
• DORA Event Permits – 2
• Number of complaints and inquiries forwarded to the Street Department, Police Department and Zoning & Building Code Administrator – 24
• Total monies collected from parking meters and fines - $15,716.68
• Total Revenue collected for the year 2024 – $40,236.68

In addition, the Mayor’s Executive Assistant served as a liaison between the Mayor’s office and the following community organizations:

• Tuscarawas County Family and Children First Council
• New Philadelphia Advancing our Community Together (NPAct)
• HARCATUS - alternate
• America 250 – Ohio (US 250) working group

Jami Bailey did an outstanding job organizing the City’s annual Christmas Lighting Ceremony, Christmas parade and a downtown store window Christmas decoration contest.

 

CITY PLANNING COMMISSION

The City Planning Commission held 9 meetings in 2024. The members used most of that meeting time to finalize their work with Wendy Moeller of Compass Point Planning to revise the City’s zoning, signage and planning codes and zoning map. On the recommendation of the Commission, the code and map revisions were adopted by City Council. The Commission also recommended that City Council rezone for business use three parcels of City-owned land along Commercial Avenue SE and SW and Canal Avenue SE. In addition, the members held a work session with New Philadelphia City Schools administrators to assist in identifying locations for new school buildings.

 

DOWNTOWN DESIGN STANDARDS BOARD OF REVIEW (Design Review Board)

The DDSBR held eight meetings in 2024. Like the Planning Commission, the DDSBR members devoted most of their meeting time to helping Wendy Moeller revise the sections of the new zoning codes that address the downtown area. The new code renamed the board as the Design Review Board and expanded its authority over the design of building facades and other improvements and signage designs. The Board also held work sessions with Designing Local of Columbus to make recommendations on the redesign of three of the downtown quadrants.

In addition, the board helped plan and implement the following projects:

• Art on the Alley – Sunday May 19^th and Sunday October 13^th
• County high school art students’ traffic box wraps
• Downtown Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA)

 

HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT – Director Lacey McKain

The City’s workforce consisted of 176 full-time employees, 32 part-time employees, and 83 seasonal employees. Several retirements took place, and hiring was ongoing throughout the year. These openings created opportunities for current City employees to advance into new positions both in departments they were currently working in and move into completely new roles and expand their skillset. Cultivating the talent within our current employees has strengthened the City’s workforce and level of service we can provide the residents of New Philadelphia. It is great to see so many dedicated employees who strive to do their best on a daily basis and take pride in the services they provide to our citizens.

The full-time roles that were filled in 2024 consisted of the following:

o   Sanitation Laborer

o   Skilled Laborer

o   Dispatcher/Jailer

o   Data Processor

o   Deputy Clerk

o   Police Officer

o   Probation Officer

o   Firefighter/Paramedic

o   Health Department Registrar/Office Administrator

o   Assistant Prosecutor

o   City Auditor

o   Park Superintendent

o   Assistant Park Superintendent

o   Park Security Guard

o   Assistant Water Superintendent

Along with full-time hiring, between 50-60 seasonal employees are hired every spring to fill lifeguard positions and seasonal laborer positions across the City departments. Director McKain was thankful to have over 75% of the 2023 seasonal employees return to their positions in 2024! Credit is owed to all departments and staff for making the City of New Philadelphia a desired place to work.

In addition to keeping up with all of the hiring needs within the City and the daily Human Resources tasks, the following items are being highlighted:

• Completed the first full year in the Jefferson Health Plan Consortium. This medical insurance change took place in July of 2023 to help control health care costs for all employees and the City. Director McKain worked closely with Pipes Insurance to ensure an easy transition for all employees and proper utilization of discount programs used to decrease healthcare and prescription costs while providing the same level of coverage.
• Managed all Worker’s Compensation claims and filing requirements, and continued to earn the City additional discounts on the annual premium by participating in the following programs:

o   DFSP (Drug-Free Safety Program): Earns the City a 4% discount on the BWC premium for participation in the Program.

o   Continued to participate and track random drug draws in concert with the City Health Department.

o   Continued to monitor all drug testing (i.e., pre-hire, random, and post-accident).

o   Conducted mandatory Substance Abuse Training for all employees through Occupational Medicine Center.

o   TWBP (Transitional Work Bonus Program): Earns the City up to a 4% discount on the City’s BWC premium for participation in the program.

o   Ensured that employees with physician orders for restricted duty were provided duties in line with the order.

o   Attended Monthly Tuscarawas Valley Safety Council Meetings: Earns the City a 3% discount.

• Attended the Ohio Human Resources Conference in Sandusky Ohio, which provided 3 days of training and professional development to Human Resource Professionals. This also gave the opportunity to network and bring new ideas back to New Philadelphia.

 

SERVICE DEPARTMENT – Director Ron McAbier

Projects – The following projects were completed in 2024:

Approximately 4.76 miles of city streets were paved during 2024. In addition, the City installed 629 feet of 6” waterlines and 435 feet of 12” waterlines. Also 1,751 feet of galvanized pipe was replaced with 2” CTS plastic pipe.

Phase 2 of the Franklin Square storm sewer project was completed with construction of 1,473 feet of 48” storm sewer lines, 58 feet of 36” storm sewer lines, 106 feet of 18” storm sewer lines, and 11 feet of 12” storm sewer lines. In addition, 476 feet of 8” and 110 feet of 4” sanitary sewer lines were laid, along with 7,478 square yards of mill and overlay.

The Kent State Tuscarawas bicycle connector trail was completed, which added a new shared use path and ADA facilities to connect the university to the downtown area along East High Avenue. New curbs, drainage structures, and drive approaches were also installed, along with two rapid-flashing beacons.

Building Permits – The following building permits were issued in 2024:

7   New Single-Family Homes

2   Duplexes

6   New Commercial Buildings

3   Additions to Commercial Buildings

12   Garages/Carports

6  Additions to Family Homes

385   Misc. permits for items such as signs, lot splits, concrete, licenses, taps, etc.

421   Total Permits and Licenses for 2024

 

Tree Planting – No trees were planted in the City in 2024.

Sidewalk Replacement Program – Due to budget constraints, the Sidewalk Replacement Program was put on hold in 2024 with hopes of bringing it back in the future.

Board of Zoning Appeals – The Board of Zoning Appeals met five times and granted six variances during the 2024 calendar year.

Information Technology – With the help of Pioneer 360, which manages the City’s computer infrastructure and network, the City continued to upgrade aging computers and networking equipment. The City also started working on a new website, with plans to launch in Fall 2025, which will be mobile-friendly and easier to navigate.

 

CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION/HARRY CLEVER FIELD (PHD)

The City Airport Commission had 10 monthly meetings in 2024. With the help of airport consultant Michael Baker International, grant funding was received from the Federal Aviation Administration and the office of ODOT-Aviation to complete the design and construction of Taxiway A at Harry Clever Field. All hangars were leased and Hootie Bear continued to operate the popular Maggoo’s Restaurant on the airport property.

One main air conditioning unit was replaced on the restaurant building. And a second airport courtesy car was added for aviators and passengers who fly into Harry Clever Field. The vehicle was signed out for use 156 times during the year.

Professional Aviation Aircraft Services, Ltd (ProAv) continued as Harry Clever Field’s Fixed Base Operator (FBO) and managed the airport.

From fuel sales and rental rates, the City received the following revenue in 2024:

 

FUEL TYPE	NUMBER OF GALLONS SOLD	CITY’S SHARE @ $ 0.04 / gallon
100LL	26,797.15	$ 1,071.89
Jet A	10,078.80	$   403.15
	TOTAL	$1,475.04

 

Hangar Revenue

Rents: $20,497.50

Maintenance Fees: $8,125.00

PRO AV Rent: $12,000.00

Hootie Bear (Maggoo’s) Rent: $26,967.92

Total Revenue: $69,065.46

 

ZONING & BUILDING CODE ADMINISTRATOR – Joshua Mathias

The following information is a summary of activities for both the Code Enforcement Department and the Planning & Zoning Department during the year 2024. Notices were sent to property owners in violation of our city’s Codified Ordinances

ZONING

Zoning violations in 2024 consisted of failure to obtain permits, failure to obtain Certificates of Zoning Compliance (COZC), recreational vehicle (RV)/trailer storage, and signage violations.

-         Failure to obtain permits:           8

-         Failure to obtain COZC:              1

-         RV/Trailer storage:                       3               

-         Signage violations:                       1

Total Zoning violations:               13              

 

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Property Maintenance violations in 2024 consisted of high grass, overgrown vegetation, trees, the accumulation of garbage/litter, and the storage of junk or junk vehicles.

-         High grass:                                  43              

-         Overgrowth:                                13              

-         Trees:                                             1              

-         Garbage/Litter:                             8                                           

-         Junk:                                            24              

-         Junk Vehicles:                             10              

Total Property Maintenance violations:        99

 

City work crews were sent to mow high grass, cut down trees, or trim back vegetation from city rights-of-way a total of 8 times where property owners failed to comply with cleanup orders. These property owners were billed for our services. Some chose not to pay the bill and assessments were requested to be placed on their real estate taxes. Note: there was one job divided between two property owners.

-         1 property owner paid for a total of $1,405.00 collected

-         8 property owners did not pay for a total of $5,155.00 in assessments

 

BUILDING/HOUSING

Both our local codes and the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) are used to identify unsafe/unsanitary structures within the city and to order corrections of any violations. These violations can range from a single necessary correction to an entire structure needing to be repaired or demolished. There are some properties we were working with in 2023 that carried into 2024. Those results are included in this report.

-         Repairs in progress:                             2

-         Violations corrected/Structures repaired:     4

-         Structures demolished by the property owner:      1

-         Structures demolished by the City:               1

Total issues with Buildings/Houses:                      8                

 

OTHER

Codes to enforce are scattered throughout the Codified Ordinances and the violations listed below come from chapters other than what has been reported above. The following consist of animal, fence, and SWP3 (Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan) violations.

-         Animals:          2      

-         Fence:             2                          

-         SWP3:             1                                   

Total Other violations:        5                                   

 

TOTAL CODE VIOLATIONS IN 2024:   127            

 

SUMMARY

A large amount of time was spent working on and finishing the much-needed Planning & Zoning Code overhaul. Having this new code adopted and in use was a great step forward for the City and will greatly assist with future planning. However, work still to be done on cleaning up other areas of our City Codes such as those that deal with property maintenance issues.

The number of violations were down when compared to the previous two years, largely due to the long period of drought which kept grass and vegetation from growing. High grass and overgrowth make up many property maintenance issues in the City every year.

 

GENERAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT – Superintendent Ray Grewell

 

In 2024, the following purchases were made in the Street, Sanitation and Traffic Divisions:

• New Fuel System installation - $19,961.52
• 2024 Vacall Street Sweeper - $330,832.52 (7 Year Loan $56,047 Yearly)
• Portable traffic lights - $57,275.00 ($45,000 Grant)
• Snowplow assembly for truck #01 - $8,000.00
• Lift gate for Mechanic truck #3 - $5,500.00
• New 60” Zero Turn mower - $10,165.86
• New walk behind Paint Machine - $6,150.00
• Purchased 500 Recycle bins - $7,220.00
• Salt purchased for 2024-2025 winter –507.10 Tons - $28,052.78
• Salt used for 2024 – 621.21 Tons
• R.J. Wright and Sons LTD Fuel - $176,944.02

These repairs were made:

• Scale House siding, doors, gutters, windows, Main garage siding, windows, gutters, Metal siding on end of office building - $50,593.50
• Sanitation Truck #114 Turbo Charger Actuator, Harness wiring - $5,892.19
• Truck #08 Engine Turbo - $5,618.16

SANITATION DIVISION

• Garbage taken to the Kimble Landfill – 9,892.15 Tons - $331,317.06
• Recyclables – 438.23 Tons - $10,517.52
• Street Sweepings – 220.87 Tons - $8,172.26

STREET DIVISION

• Newton Asphalt Hot Mix purchased to fill potholes – 157.58 Tons - $12,627.20
• Street paving asphalt – 6,563.99 Tons - $669,660.12
• Tuscarawas County Engineer Cold Mix purchased to fill potholes – 63.83 TONS - $5,811.99
• Extra Pick-ups – 1,831

TREE CREW

• Stumps removed – 68
• Trees trimmed – 86
• Trees cut down – 61
• Bull Country Compost – 76 Hoppers - $13,300.00

 

WATER OFFICE / WATER SUPPLY / WATER DISTRIBUTION – Superintendent Scott DeVault

In 2024, the City’s Water Department continued making many improvements to its Distribution System. Work included replacement of a deteriorating 2” watermain on North Ave. NE between N. Broadway and 2^nd St. NE with 6” ductile and the addition of a hydrant at 1^st Dr. NE. A 12” ductile waterline was extended on Allen Ln. NW behind the municipal building out to S. Broadway looping that line. Additional work included replacing deteriorating 2” waterline on 1^st Dr. SW, 1^st Dr. SE, and Oak Ave. NW with 2” CTS Plastic.

Other improvements to the Distribution System have included Hydrant Replacement, Valve Replacement, Service Connection Renewals, New Taps, New Mains, and New Service Installations all across the City.

In 2024, the City’s Water Plant continued efficient production of safe, clean drinking water to the residents and businesses of New Philadelphia.

 The following report shows the operation of the City’s Water Office, Water Supply, and Distribution System departments in 2024.

 

2024 WATER DEPARTMENT IMPORTANT STATISTICS

 

WATER OFFICE

January 1 to December 31, 2024

 

SERVICE CONNECTIONS	TOTAL
Sprinkling meters	384
Water Only accounts	170
Sewer Only accounts	12
ACH accounts	2,067
Work orders	2,137

 

8,176 - ACCOUNTS INSIDE CITY

209 - ACCOUNTS OUTSIDE CITY

8,376 - TOTAL ACCOUNTS

 

WATER SUPPLY

January 1 to December 31, 2024

 

SOURCE	GALLONS
Pumped from wells	846,261,846
Pumped to distribution system	776,900,480
Permanganate used	915
	POUNDS
Chlorine used	5,169
Salt used	4,348,480
Carbon dioxide used	134,000

 

TOTAL HOURS OPERATIONAL  5,965

 

WATER DISTRIBUTION WORK STATISTICS

January 1 to December 31, 2024

 

TYPE OF WORK	NUMBER
Leaks Main	37
Leaks Service	10
New Services	4
Renewed Services	19
New or replaced hydrants	8

 

WATER IMPROVEMENTS

January 1 to December 31, 2024

 

WATER DISTRIBUTION

Installed 1,751 feet – 2”water main

Installed 629 feet – 6” water main

Installed 435 feet – 12” water main

 

 

WASTEWATER/SEWER DEPARTMENTS – Superintendent Brian Myers

 

WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT

The wastewater treatment plant treated 1.095 billion gallons of raw sewage averaging 3 million gallons per day (MGD) with 7.1 million gallons (MG) of sludge produced as a result. The sludge was run through a filter press and 420.4 dry tons of sludge were disposed of at Kimble Landfill.

Improvements and repairs made by the department during 2024 were:

• A new storm water pump was installed on 11^th St. NW to help with flooding.
• A new SCADA system upgrade was installed at all 20 of the lift stations completing the upgrade that was started in 2022 at the wastewater plant.
• An EPA audit was completed for the pretreatment program at the wastewater plant.
• Phase II of the Franklin Sq. storm sewer project was completed.
• One of the final clarifiers broke and was repaired.
• A manhole was hit during construction at the airport which was repaired.
• We continued to work with Alec Hillyer to keep both the Lagoon and park pond free of algae and duckweed.

 

SEWER DEPARTMENT

The Sewer Department raised 45 manholes throughout the city and rebuilt 23 catch basins. Handled all OUPS tickets and cleaned catch basins daily.

Other regular duties performed were:

• Each month, jetted and sucked out hot spot areas to ensure that the sanitary system worked properly.
• Answered 17 sewer calls resulting in 6 lines needing jetted to help flow.
• Smoke tested Kelly NW, 5^th NW and surrounding streets looking for inflow and infiltration to satisfy EPA requirements.
• Opened numerous manholes and jetted for the gas company projects.
• Fixed several sink holes.
• Used the jetter and helped the Water Department with replacement of hydrants and services, along with multiple leaks throughout the year.
• Sucked out and cleaned tanks throughout the year at Tuscora Park and at Maggoo’s Restaurant at Harry Clever Field.
• Plowed snow.
• Mapped all new sewer laterals.
• Continued work on Storm Water Management and Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) programs.

 

FIRE DEPARTMENT – Chief Jim Parrish

In 2024, the request for service continued to trend upwards. The Fire Department responded to 3,615 calls in 2024, which is 30 calls up from 3,587 in 2023. One Firefighter/Paramedic retired in October after 25 years of service. Firefighters trained every day, Monday-Friday, for at least one hour. They also attended 1,527 hours of training outside of the Fire Department.

 

CALL VOLUME

1/1/2024 – 12/31/2024

 

MONTHLY		DAILY		PER SHIFT
January	300	Sunday	461	1st	1,261
February	276	Monday	543	2nd	1,173
March	292	Tuesday	528	3rd	1,187
April	304	Wednesday	527
May	308	Thursday	499
June	284	Friday	564
July	330	Saturday	506
August	327
September	317
October	297
November	287
December	306
TOTAL	3,628		3,628		3,621

 

AVERAGE TIMES

1/1/2024 to 12/31/2024

 

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE

Time to Dispatch	09:31.1
Reaction Time	00:00:20
Response Time	00:03.3
Time on Scene	01
Time Transfer to Hospital	00:08.3
Time Out at Hospital	00:13.5
Total Call Duration	00:20:34

 

NON-EMS

Time to Dispatch	00:22:42
Reaction Time	00:01:09
Response Time	01:37:46
Time on Scene	00:06:39
Total Call Duration	00:20:34

 

INCIDENT SUMMARY

1/1/2024 – 12/31/2024

 

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE

321 EMS Call Non-MVA	2,295
533 Public Service	30
322 Motor vehicle accident with injuries	25
324 Motor vehicle accident no injuries	6
554 Assist invalid	4
550 Public service assistance, other	4
323 Motor vehicle/pedestrian accident	4
311 Medical assist, assist EMS crew	2
511 Dispatched & cancelled in route	1
300 Rescue, EMS incident, other	1
TOTAL	2368

 

Non-EMS

321 EMS Call Non-MVA	303
553 Public Service	305
611 Dispatched & cancelled en route	84
311 Medical assist, assist EMS crew	31
554 Assist invalid	81
735 Alarm system sounded due to malfunction	21
322 Motor vehicle accident with injuries	32
444 Power line down	21
111 Building fire	23
622 No incident found on arrival at dispatch address	17
745 Alarm system activation, no fire – unintentional	12
651 Smoke scare, odor of smoke	41
424 Carbon monoxide incident	15
412 Gas leak (natural gas or LPG)	33
324 Motor vehicle accident with no injuries	33
118 Trash or rubbish fire, contained	9
131 Passenger vehicle fire	9
600 Good intent call, other	15
440 Electrical wiring/equipment problem – other	6
733 Smoke detector activation due to malfunction	3
445 Arcing, shorted electrical equipment	7
113 Cooking fire, confined to container	4
743 Smoke detector activation, no fire – unintentional	10
561 Unauthorized burning	16
550 Public service assistance, other	12
551 Assist police or other governmental agency	11
140 Natural vegetation fire, other	4
740 Unintentional transmission of alarm, other	7
736 CO detector activation due to malfunction	5
631 Authorized controlled burning	2
552 Police matter	7
400 Hazardous condition, other	0
744 Detector activation, no fire – unintentional	4
300 Rescue, EMS incident, other	0
741 Sprinkler activation, no fire – unintentional	5
381 Rescue or EMS standby	3
352 Extrication of victim(s) from vehicle	3
143 Grass fire	6
746 Carbon monoxide detector activation, no CO	4
710 Malicious, mischievous false call, other	1
520 Water problem, other	2
511 Lock-out	5
462 Aircraft standby	0
350 Extrication, rescue, other	0
323 Motor vehicle/pedestrian accident	0
251 Excessive heat, scorch burns with no ignition	0
154 Dumpster or other outside trash receptacle fire	0
150 Outside rubbish fire, other	2
700 False alarm or false call, other	0
672 Biological hazard investigation, none found	0
542 Animal rescue	1
531 Smoke or odor removal	2
522 Water or steam leak	0
413 Oil or other combustible liquid spill	2
363 Swift water rescue	0
360 Water & ice related rescue, other	0
351 Extrication of victim(s) from building/structure	0
160 Special outside fire, other	1
151 Outside rubbish, trash or waste fire	1
142 Brush or brush and grass mixture fire	0
138 Off-road vehicle or heavy equipment fire	0
132 Road freight or transport vehicle fire	3
TOTAL	3,620

 

STRUCTURE FIRE MUTUAL AID GIVEN

1/1/2024 – 12/31/2024

 

Fire Department	3 Mutual Aid	4 Automatic Aid
Dover	4	7
Uhrichsville		1
York Township		1
Fairfield Township	1
Smith Ambulance
Stone Creek	1
Dennison	1
Baltic	1
TOTALS	8	9

 

STRUCTURE FIRE MUTUAL AID RECEIVED

1/1/2024 – 12/31/2024

 

Fire Department/Ambulance Service	1 Mutual Aid	2 Automatic Aid
Dover	1	3
Smith Ambulance	1	1
Uhrichsville	1	1
TOTALS	3	5

 

MUTUAL AID SUMMARY

1/1/2024 – 12/31/2024

 

Mutual Aid Received	23
Automatic Aid Received	17
Mutual Aid Given	29
Automatic Aid Given	24
Other Aid Given	1
TOTAL	94

 

FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU – Captain Jim Sholtz

Code Enforcement

The Fire Prevention Bureau inspected 984 businesses in 2024, 11 more than in the previous year.

• 974 inspections were conducted in 2024.
• 225 re-inspections were conducted in 2024.
• 3 citations were given.
• 2 warnings in lieu of citations were given.
• 2 court actions were initiated:

o   130/134 East High Avenue. International Property Maintenance Code - criminal. Dismissed by prosecutor.

o   1811 East High Avenue. Fuel Tanks. City was awarded a $10,000.00 judgement.

• Inspected 29 businesses in Goshen Township.
• 22 Post False Alarm inspections
• 11 Post fire Incident inspections were completed, five less than in 2023. The post incident inspections have been very successful in improving how the Bureau discovers issues with building occupancies that it may have missed.
• Contracted with Brycer’s “The Compliance Engine” web-based service to track fire and life safety inspection reports from third-party vendors. It improved the Bureau’s effectiveness in the following ways:

o   Requires third-party vendors to upload all inspection reports to “The Compliance Engine” to track for violations.

o   Repeatedly mail and email property owners to assure compliance of violations.

o   Puts Life Safety systems for each occupancy on a map on the Fire Inspectors tablet and flags non-compliance. This allows the inspector to note violations earlier.

o   This service should lower the need for reinspection and the rate of violations.

Investigation, Fire Loss/Property Saved Statistics

The Bureau investigated 8 structure fires in 2024. The causes were as follows:

• 2 accidental/electrical
• 1 accidental
• 5 undetermined (open)

Estimated Fire Loss/Saved Trends

	2022	2023	2024
Total Structure Fires	39	31	23
Property Threatened	$3,851,010.00	$2,146,130.00	$2,519,010.00
Property Loss	-$1,122,360.00	-$834,100.00	-$413,450.00
Contents Loss	-$540,350.00	-$249,960.00	-$39,305.00
TOTAL LOSS	-$1,626,710.00	-$1,084,068.00	-$452,755.00
Value vs Loss Percentage	42% loss	50% loss	14% loss
Property Saved	$2,902,000.00	$1,312,030.00	$2,105,560.00
Contents Saved	$173,750.00	$540,500.00	$666,485.00
TOTAL SAVED	$2,902,400.00	$1,852,530.00	$2,772,045.00

 

Overall structure fires have dropped year-over-year for the last three years. The overall value vs loss in 2024 was at 14%, which shows the effectiveness of our crews when they fight a structure fire.

International Property Maintenance Code Activity

Enforcement on 9 properties was initiated by the Fire Department. It resulted in 3 buildings being torn down.

Smoke Detector Program

The Bureau partners with Lowe’s Home Improvement to give smoke detectors to every kindergarten student in the New Philadelphia School District. Generous donations allowed for the purc