The Hillsdale City Council approved funding for the police department and made a new appointment to the Tax Increment Finance Authority board at its meeting Feb. 7.
The council approved a proposal presented by Police and Fire Chief Scott Hephner for a new undercover vehicle for the department.
“We’d like to get our vehicles replaced before they undergo catastrophic failure,” Hephner said.
He explained the need for a new unmarked vehicle, as the department’s current unmarked vehicle is 12 years old. He proposed the city purchase a 2022 Ford Explorer.
The council unanimously approved the winning bid of $29,953.40, which was recommended by the public safety committee.
In a 5-2 vote, the council also approved the appointment of property owner David Hambleton to TIFA, to replace Mary Wolfram, whose term expired in July 2021.
TIFA is a city board committed to creating economic opportunity, providing support for small businesses, and preserving property values in the community, according to Mayor Adam Stockford.
Stockford said he wants business owners to fill the TIFA board moving forward.
“Nobody’s being singled out or picked on,” Stockford said. “There is a method to how I would like to move forward, with the council’s permission. I want to end the practice of representatives of organizations on the board that don’t have a business in the district.”
Councilman Greg Stuchell said he disagreed with the mayor’s appointment and argued that Mary Wolfram should remain on the board.
“Nobody has brought in the money that she has,” Stuchell said. “Nobody. It’s unprecedented, mayor. I understand why you want to do this. The time will come when you can slowly replace everybody with business owners.”
Stockford ended the debate by thanking Wolfram for her service on the board, while maintaining his support for Hambleton.
“I want to get past the idea that I am removing her from the board,” Stockford said.“She still has an opportunity to put her skills at work with the city where her expertise would be very helpful.”
The council also unanimously approved the annual budget proposal. Finance director Karen Lancaster explained the need for budget amendments in accordance with the state.
