BARNESVILLE, Ohio (AVC News) — Barnesville Village Council approved several measures during its July 27 meeting, including plans to apply for state funding for future street improvements and the appointment of a new police chief.
Council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing Village Administrator Roger Deal to apply for funding through the Ohio Public Works Commission for the 2027 State Capital Improvement and Local Transportation Improvement programs. The application must be submitted by Aug. 31.
Council also discussed proposed increases to water and sewer rates.
Mayor Jake Hershberger said the rates currently being charged are lower than rates previously approved because a planned increase in 2021 was never put into effect.
The Water and Sewer Committee recommended increases of 15%, 15% and 10% over three years, followed by annual adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index.
Council members and residents discussed the impact of the increases, including affordability for seniors and people on fixed incomes, lead service line replacement, village tax revenue, bulk water sales and future capital expenses.
Council agreed to keep the recommended percentage increases but adjust the starting rates to reflect the actual rates currently being charged. The water and sewer rate ordinances received first readings.
In other business, Council approved the appointment of Lieutenant Matthew Tippie as Barnesville’s next police chief.
Tippie will take over Aug. 16 following the retirement of Chief Sirianni, who has served with the department for nearly 20 years, including almost nine years as chief. Sirianni will move into a school resource officer position with the village.
Council unanimously confirmed Tippie’s appointment, which includes a six-month probationary period.
Council also approved a $500 donation toward the village’s Safety Day event, scheduled for Aug. 1 at Barnesville High School.
The event will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will include safety stations and activities.
Council approved street closures for the Barnesville Area Chamber of Commerce’s Back-to-School Fun in the Ville event on Aug. 6 and approved use of the East Main Street parking lot for a car cruise-in scheduled for Sept. 6.
The village also authorized Mayor Hershberger or Deal to sign a water use agreement with Gulfport Appalachia LLC for raw water sales.
During public comment, residents raised concerns about drainage, sidewalks and Shamrock Drive, while Scott Whitacre asked the village to review its Source Water Protection Plan.
Council also scheduled a Water and Sewer Committee meeting for July 29 to continue discussing water and sewer issues.
Last Updated on August 11, 2026 by AVC News
