Sewer and water rates
City of Sylvania Service Director Joe Shaw proposed raising water and sewer rates at a Utilities and Environment Committee meeting held before the regular Sylvania City Council meeting on Nov. 3. According to Shaw, the city of Toledo will be raising the cost of water and the ongoing schedule of repairs for the water and sewer systems warrent the need for the suggested rate increases. The proposed rate adjustments were included in the submitted 2026 budget and Shaw recommended a future vote on the adjustments after passage of the budget later this year.
Budget
The city of Sylvania Finance Director, Toby Schroyer presented the 2026 budget for a first reading to members of Sylvania City Council at the Nov. 3 meeting. City Council President Mary Westphal noted the the budget had been the subject of an Oct. 16 Finance Committee meeting, which involved a lively discussion. A second reading is scheduled for the Nov. 17 council meeting. Mayor Mark Frye pointed out that holding a second and possibly a third reading of the budget ordinance would allow citizens the opportunity to review the budget and he encouraged those with questions to make contact with his office or with members of council.
In other business, members of City Council approved Shaw’s request for a final change order for the Plummer Pool Bath House renovations for $16,943 to correct two flooring issues that developed as the bath house opened last Memorial Day. The contractor for the project, VanTassel Construction, removed the surface of the flooring and installed a new, non-skid coating.
Underground utilities
Council members also approved Shaw’s request to authorize Toledo Edison’s $426,129.17 cost to relocate the overhead wiring underground in the second block of Main Street and upgrade the aerial lines on Summit Street between Monroe and Erie streets.
Shaw’s request to advertise for bids to replace four flashing beacon systems with Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons at Highland, Sylvan, McCord, and Southview schools was also authorized.
After hours canine control
Council members voted to extend the city of Sylvania’s contract with the Lucas County Board of Commissioners for after-hours canine control services by the Lucas County Acting Dog Warden. According to Law Director Leslie Brining, this service has been successfully in place for nearly 20 years.