Ravenna Addresses Facility Issues, Property Acquisitions and Resident Concerns

RAVENNA , OH - Ravenna Fire Department's aging station is experiencing serious structural and mechanical failures that have already consumed much of this year's maintenance budget, Fire Chief Mark Chapple told council on October 6. The most serious problem involved deteriorated sanitary drain lines causing strong hydrogen sulfide odors throughout the station. The drains were so compromised that on-duty crews detected the toxic gas with monitoring equipment. Harner Restoration Services had to descale and reline the pipes at a cost of approximately $17,500, potentially more after equipment broke during the work requiring a second trip. During the week-long repair, firefighters could not use running water, sinks or showers. The department spent $2,300 to bring in a portable bathroom facility so personnel working 24-hour shifts had to go outside to a trailer for basic facilities. An oil separator behind the building, which captures debris from fire trucks coming in from calls, has deteriorated and been compromised. The separator needs immediate repair or replacement at an estimated cost exceeding $50,000. The department has spent $6,000 from its $15,000 annual building repair budget with an additional $4,500 already committed for ongoing needs. Chapple said winter typically brings HVAC heating issues that may push spending over budget. Other ongoing issues include floor drains requiring professional jetting every three to four months to prevent apparatus bay flooding, two separate HVAC units that don't properly regulate with each other, and deteriorating support beams at the building's front posts where rainwater meets the foundation. On-duty firefighters recently dug out rotted areas, sanded beams, applied rust-prevention paint and recaulked with concrete cement to slow further deterioration. Chapple said firefighters regularly perform building maintenance tasks that aren't technically their responsibility, trying to save the city money while working in a facility that has outlived its useful life. On a positive note, the department secured a $33,895 federal grant from the 2024 FEMA Assistance to Firefighter Grant program for protective equipment. The grant will fund eight sets of turnout gear with a required 5% city match of approximately $1,600. The department originally requested funding for 10 sets and submitted an addendum to FEMA requesting reconsideration for the additional $8,000. FEMA often reduces individual grant awards to distribute funding among more departments, sometimes providing additional funding later if money remains. The department's new Engine Ladder 2314 is ahead of production schedule and may arrive within 18 to 22 months instead of the projected 24 to 26 months. More immediately, the department's new ambulance should be ready for inspection and delivery this week from Pennsylvania. Once the fourth ambulance is in service, the department plans to either trade in or sell its oldest unit, a 2015 model. A neighboring community has expressed interest in purchasing it, and the trade-in value estimate came in between $25,000 and $30,000. The department completed annual pump testing on all fire apparatus in August, with Captain Brad Riley performing much of the pump mechanics work, saving thousands of dollars annually. All ground ladders and the aerial ladder passed annual testing with only one ladder requiring minor welding. Plans for a new public safety building are moving forward, with legislation expected in October for a combined police and fire facility with city hall addition. City Finalizes Sunbo Valley Purchase, Plans Task Force The city is finalizing purchase of Sunbo Valley, with Mayor Frank Seman expecting the deal to close on October 7 pending final recording with the county. Council President Rob Kairis proposed forming a committee or task force to determine future use of the property. Several individuals and organizations have already contacted the mayor expressing interest, including someone who operates a theater in Kent and puts on concerts and events. Another proposal came from a former city resident offering to take over and operate the entire facility, though the city recently hired Parks and Recreation Director Chris Bundy. The mayor reported he was approached about purchasing a house on Brady Lake Road near the Sunbo Valley entrance for $190,000. Seman told them the city doesn't need additional property at this location, and council members indicated no objection to that position. Kairis also suggested using a committee structure to plan events at the downtown pocket park, which recently won an award from Celebrate Portage. Council Member Cheryl Wood was recognized for her vision in creating the pocket park. Resident Seeks Leaf Pickup Schedule for Working Families Peter Martin, who works full-time outside the city, asked council to publish an advance schedule for fall leaf pickup so working residents can plan when to move leaves to the curb. Martin said he's been raising