Rockford Council Seeks Applicants for Open Seat Following Resignation

The Village of Rockford is accepting letters of interest from residents interested in filling an open Village Council seat.

Mayor Ron Searight announced during the September 15 council meeting that Shane Young had resigned from council without providing an explanation. Searight thanked Young for his service to the village.

Anyone interested in completing the remainder of Young’s term must submit a letter of interest to the Rockford Village Office by 4 p.m. on October 2. Interviews are expected to take place the following week, with council planning to appoint the new member during its October 20 meeting.

Council also approved a resolution opposing Enbridge Gas Ohio’s proposed distribution-rate increase and asking the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio to reject the request.

Beginning in October, Rockford water bills will be mailed inside envelopes instead of being printed on postcards. Village officials are testing the change following concerns about bills arriving late or after their due dates.

Village Administrator Aaron Temple reported that a site visit for planned solar installations went well. Solar panels are expected to be installed at the sewer plant, water plant, village office and rear garage. Officials expect the projects to break even during the first several years before producing savings.

Council also approved street closures for Rocktoberfest on October 31. Portions of Columbia Street East and Market Street East will be closed to accommodate the event.