Mary Alice Reporting –
The City of Uhrichsville held a special meeting regarding the disagreement and legal battle with the Village of Dennison.
In September, city council voted to stop payments to the Columbus Law Firm that was hired to handle the court case in Tuscarawas Common Pleas.
At Monday’s special meeting, Mayor Mark Haney relayed requests from the law director that is also recommended by the mayor. It included hiring outside council to represent the city in pending litigation.
The next was to rescind the motion made by Councilman Jim Zucal in September, with Councilwoman Amy Myers noting five votes were needed to withdraw.
The third issue related to a court decision.
“He’s asking the court to decide pending litigation based upon the facts of the law, and alike he said, the settlement agreement was never given within resolution or presented to council before the meeting.”
The lawsuit filed by Dennison relates to Uhrichsville stopping high school tax payments that was agreed upon in 1998, but was noted as invalid by city lawyer.
At-Large council member Bill Goshorn said his concern relates to the over 30% tax money going to the village when they don’t contribute to the high school building. Councilwoman Wendy Mann echoed Goshorn.
Councilmember Terry Engstrom voiced concerns over the city being sued and with court dates looming, they have no legal representation.
A motion was made to let the court decide on pending litigation, which was approved four to one. Matt Fox was not in attendance.
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