Middlefield Village’s Financial Update: A Positive Outlook

Middlefield Village officials are pretty happy with the village’s finance reports. Despite a slight decrease in employment, the village’s finances are still in great shape. The village’s Fiscal Officer, Nick Giardina, shared the finance report at the recent council meeting. He mentioned that the village has collected $2,659,000 in income tax withholdings for 2023, which is similar to last year’s total of $2,748,000. The year-to-date collection from the main revenue sources is up by 1.45% from last year at this time. Giardina also mentioned that expenses have increased significantly due to major projects, with $1,383,000 more spent than a year ago. However, the village’s total bank accounts are at $12,296,000, indicating a positive financial standing. Giardina credited the mayor, council, and village employees for effectively managing expenses. He also highlighted that the village has earned $300,000 in interest on investments this year and expects another $400,000 in the next 12 months. This smart money management has prevented the need for water and sewer bill increases for residents. The East Geauga Fire District expressed gratitude to the village and township voters for passing a 4.7-mill fire and EMS replacement levy, which will be used to increase the pay rate for part-time firefighters. Leslie Gambosi-McCoy, the village’s economic development director, informed the council about a storefront on Madison Road that was decertified from the Wave 5 program due to incomplete project submission. Mayor Ben Garlich inquired about the occupancy status of the Woodsong Meadows development, and Zoning Director John Boksansky reported that eight of 20 occupancy permits have been issued so far. Additionally, Middlefield Police Chief Joe Tucholski welcomed two new full-time police officers, Robert Hamilton and Christopher Plantz. Garlich also approved Marcia Bryson as cemetery sexton and appointed members to the economic development committee. Overall, the village’s financial stability and ongoing development projects indicate a positive outlook for Middlefield’s future.