Miller is new police chief

COLDWATER - Interim police chief Jason Miller was named the new chief by village council members Monday night.

The unanimous council decision followed a 20-minute executive session.

Miller, who will receive a $44,000 annual salary effective immediately, became the interim chief Nov. 27 when police chief Randy Waltmire went on medical leave. It was initially thought the former chief's medical leave would be temporary; however, Waltmire has retired from the department.

"I want to thank Jason for the work he did as interim and even before that," village manager Eric Thomas said. "It was a difficult situation ... but he stepped up to the plate."

Miller has been with the force since June 2006; it's undecided who will take his position as sergeant.

Thomas also announced the village received $200,000 in Ohio Public Works grant funding. The money will be used to patch Plum and Ruby streets and perform various waterline repairs.

Mayor Joe Knapschaefer asked if the contractors could be finished before the village's 175th celebration begins July 28. Thomas seemed optimistic about the possibility.

"It's not a lot of handwork, so it's not so critical that our summer help is here for that," he said.

Finance director Rich Branch announced the police department received a $5,300 grant to replace five desktop PCs at the office for $560 each. The grant also will fund three new laptop computers for police cruisers.

Council also discussed renting a mini-backhoe for various summer projects and whether to buy a new utility trailer or repair a village trailer.