Mayor's Message

Many Cities and Townships in Ohio and throughout our Nation are experiencing unprecedented economic downturns in revenue. This is a direct reflection of the economic health of its citizens. When an individual’s income goes down, whether it is from a loss of a job or wage concessions, their income tax paid to the city or state is reduced as well. This translates to lower revenue for the city or state.

Fortunately, in Canal Fulton for 2009, this has not been the case.  Every leading indicator in the income tax department shows an increase from 2008. Individual deposits, net profit deposits, and withholding deposits were higher in 2009 than 2008! The individual deposits that comprise non-business accounts had a remarkable 16% increase ($104,125), which can only be interpreted as Canal Fulton residents as a whole are in better financial health than in 2008, than many other municipalities in the area.  It appears being a bedroom community not tied to one or two major industries, but inhabited by a hard working mobile workforce, is a blessing.

The City will continue to manage your money prudently and efficiently. We are currently evaluating the feasibility and cost effectiveness of creating a fire district by merging Lawrence Township and Canal Fulton fire departments. We have worked well together for years and all our citizens may benefit from creating a fire district whose goals would be to have reduced response times and updated equipment.  There are many issues that need to be addressed, most importantly funding and utilization of major capital items, such as fire trucks and EMS vehicles, but a thorough cost benefit analysis will be done to determine the benefits and liabilities of a fire district.

The City has received numerous grants.  The police department received one for a vehicle and part-time officers.  The fire department received a grant to purchase a computer-based training lab.  Our sewer department received stimulus funds to extend a sewer line.    We will continue to save local taxpayer dollars by utilizing grants to supplement department operations.

The finance committee is undergoing a study to comprise a five-year plan for our water and sewer departments. This study is intended to analyze revenues and expenses in both departments and set rates now and in the future to meet the need for operations, debt service, and capital items.  I am committed to not raising utility rates during this difficult economic period, and will continue to explore other avenues to provide the low cost, high quality water and sewer services that the residents of  Canal Fulton enjoy.

Finally, as we embark up on a new year and a new decade, faced with unforeseen and new challenges, I am proud to be part of this community and am honored to serve the residents of this City as your Mayor.  As I begin my 7th year as Mayor, I will continue to work towards the same shared goals of  building a community in which we are proud to call home.