FR police seek help with thefts

FORT RECOVERY — Police are asking for help in solving a couple of recent thefts.

Fort Recovery Police Chief Jared Laux told village council Monday about a pair of thefts, asking that residents alert police of any suspicious activity.

Local businesses have reported machinery thefts recently, including two batteries stolen from new tractors at K&L Tractor Sales had two batteries. Hull Brothers had tires taken from its property.

Laux told council the thieves are popping tires off of vehicles and are able to take batteries from machinery quickly and efficiently.

“They know what they are doing,” said Laux. “They are not there very long.”

Surveillance cameras have been put up to try to help, he added. The thefts occurred on weekdays, with one reported to have happened between 3 and 5 a.m.

Police do not currently have leads pointing them toward any suspects.

Coldwater, Ohio, also had an incident where someone attempted to steal a utility vehicle but the thefts are different enough that police believe there is no connection. Fort Recovery and Coldwater police are working together in an effort to find those responsible for thefts.

“We will continue to work together with other agencies like we always do,” said Laux.

Police have asked community members to keep an eye out for anything suspicious and report it by calling (419) 375-2662.

In other business, council members Dave Garman, Scott Pearson, Dave Bretz, Erik Fiely, Cliff Wendel and Al Post:

•Heard a project made possible by at NatureWorks grant is nearly complete. The village received a grant of nearly $16,000 that allowed a new playground, two benches and swings put in Community Park.

•Heard from village solicitor Erin Minor that the project to build a three-season shelter house at Community Park is set to begin mid-summer of 2018 with a goal of renting the structure beginning in spring 2019. The village is waiting on quotes so it can get a concrete estimate on the total cost. There are still opportunities to donate to the project and those interested should contact Minor at (419) 375-1056.

•Heard the village’s zoning board approved for the former Home Idea building on Commerce Street to be turned into office space. Amy Wendel Family Health will be utilizing part of the building for its practice.

•Heard from village administrator Randy Diller that he discussed the potential re-routing project for Ohio 49 with property owners who would be affected. He said he would have an update at the next meeting.

•Heard the Fort Recovery Merchants Open House is scheduled for Nov. 12.