Village of Walton Hills Holds Special Council Meeting on Surveillance System and Financial Reconciliation

The Village of Walton Hills Council held a special meeting on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at 4:00 PM to address urgent matters that could not wait until the next regular council session. Topics included the approval of a new surveillance system for Village property, a continuation of financial reconciliation efforts, and adjustments to the 2025 budget.

Surveillance System Approved for Village Hall and Parking Lots

One of the primary agenda items was Resolution 2025-31, which authorized the Village to enter into a contract with Great Lakes Telecom and Electric LLC for the purchase and installation of a comprehensive surveillance system. The system will enhance security around Village Hall and the adjacent parking areas.

The original quote of approximately $24,900 was discussed prior to Council’s summer recess. However, due to expanded scope—including the addition of an eight-channel network video recorder (NVR), wireless capabilities, and additional cameras—the revised cost increased to $32,405.

Chief Dave Kwiatkowski noted that the upgrades will allow for full surveillance of the parking lot, providing a safe space for residents to conduct transactions such as online marketplace exchanges. Council also discussed the potential to add surveillance coverage for the event center at a later date.

Despite concerns about the price increase, Council ultimately agreed that the additional features were necessary. The resolution passed with majority support, with one council member abstaining due to discomfort over the scope change process.

Continued Efforts on Financial Reconciliation

Council also passed Resolution 2025-32, authorizing the mayor to extend a contract with the Ohio Auditor of State’s Local Government Services to complete the Village’s financial reconciliation. The first agreement was for $15,000, of which only about $6,800 was used. The new contract sets a maximum cost of $25,000, though officials expect the final cost to be significantly lower.

Fiscal Officer Nickol Sell explained that the reconciliation through March 31, 2024, revealed that the Village’s actual bank balances were higher than what was reflected on the books. The reconciliation process will continue to resolve remaining discrepancies and improve financial accuracy going forward.

Council members requested that once the process is complete, a transparent summary report be shared with both Council and the public.

Ordinance Adjusts Budget for Surveillance and Grant Work

Council passed Ordinance 2025-9, which amends the 2025 appropriations to cover the new surveillance system and unexpected expenses related to infrastructure projects.

The ordinance includes a $14,000 budget adjustment to cover the remaining cost of a completed project on Hannah Road, which had been partially funded through a Community Development Block Grant. The Village had to pay upfront before being reimbursed.

It was also noted that funding from the Energized Community Grant may be used to offset some of the surveillance system costs. The Village currently has about $13,600 in available grant funds.

Final Remarks

Before adjourning, Council and Mayor Don Kolograf expressed appreciation for everyone’s efforts in convening during summer recess to address these pressing matters. The meeting concluded with votes on all agenda items, including the surveillance system, financial reconciliation, and budget amendments.