Grant awarded for public space at four-way stop

COAL GROVE — A new method for collecting income taxes in the village will soon be going into effect, Coal Grove Mayor Andy Holmes said.

Holmes said the council, at its April 25 meeting, approved a resolution authorizing him to enter into an agreement with the Regional Income Tax Agency (RITA), a third-party nonprofit, who will handle collections.

Holmes notes the group is owned by the 31 municipalities who take part in it and said it will be of benefit to the village and make the job easier.

He pointed out that the Village of Rio Grande, in Gallia County, uses RITA, as well other municipalities in Lawrence County take part.

Holmes also gave an update on renovations to the shelter and steps at Paul Porter Park in the village, which is being done by Hemmings Construction.

“It’s about 75 percent complete,” Holmes said of the $148,000 project, which will include a new 20-foot by 40-foot shelter, in addition to two existing at the park, and a new set of stairs coming up the hillside.

Holmes also spoke of another project for the village, at the site of the four-way stop sign on Marion Pike.

He said the village has received a $135,000 grant from the Lawrence County Community Action organization, which will include construction of a gazebo for the public space.

Holmes said the village has also negotiated a deal with the City of Ironton to purchase a vacuum truck for Coal Grove.

He said part of the deal includes entering into a mutual aid agreement with Ironton, allowing for joint use of equipment, including Coal Grove’s truck and Ironton’s newer model truck.

“It’s a great deal and it shows we play well with our neighbors,” he said.