Fostoria officers recognized for lifesaving efforts

FOSTORIA — Several members of the Fostoria Police Department were recognized at Tuesday's city council meeting for their life-saving actions taken during incidents that occurred in 2025, with one of those officers being named the department's Officer of the Year. During the public portion of the meeting, Chief Gabe Wedge recognized three officers for responding to a medical emergency involving a fellow officer. "Thanks to these three officers' quick thinking and response, they possibly saved that officer's life," said Wedge. Those recognized included Collin Taggart, Jeremy Selez, and Moira White. Wedge also recognized an additional two officers for their response to a separate stabbing incident later in the year, where their actions helped stabilize a victim before emergency medical services arrived. "Thanks to the reaction of a good Samaritan that was on scene, in addition to the response of the officers who showed up and stopped the bleeding by applying tourniquets and packing the wound until EMS could get there– we know they saved this person's life," said Wedge. Those officers were Moira White and Tim Ink. Sgt. Ink was also named the department's 2025 Officer of the Year. Wedge described him as "a vital part of our team," noting his leadership of the department's drone program and involvement in regional special response team training. Wedge also credited Ink for an overhaul of the department's Field Training Officer (FTO) program, saying it is a crucial part of training new officers. "He revamped the program to make it seamless," he said. Lastly, a resident raised concerns about property near Foundation Park, alleging a neighboring individual cut portions of two trees: a pine and a blue spruce, that had been planted decades ago. The resident also described ongoing concerns related to maintenance activities near the property. City officials said they would speak with the resident following the meeting to gather additional information and discuss possible next steps. Administrative reports Assistant Safety Service Director Maddie Stearns reported approximately 100 residents have signed up for the city's new notification system since it launched roughly two weeks ago. The system was introduced to provide alerts to residents in regard to city services and emergencies outside of previous notification systems, such as social media. "We are urging residents to sign up for the notification system, and are hoping to send out some informational flyers alongside upcoming city water bills," she said. Finance Director Damon Smith was formally welcomed to his first meeting in the position, replacing previous director Steve Dandurand. Public affairs Councilperson Amy Mendoza, chair of the public affairs committee, shared several upcoming city events and activities. Family Funday Friday - 6:30 p.m. April 24 at Fruth Wetland Nature Preserve, featuring a movie, food and outdoor activities. A guided Wetland Walkers program will also be held at 8:30 a.m. April 30, with optional coffee available through registration. Community Cleanup Day - 10 a.m.-Noon May 2 at Fostoria Memorial Stadium, Jackson Park and the Church of the Nazarene. Residents may dispose of household items, with electronics recycling available at the stadium. Registration is also open for the 2026 Fostoria Glass Pageant, with entries due May 20 and the event scheduled for June 14 at the Fostoria Schools Performing Arts Center. Mendoza also reminded residents that Arbor Day coloring contest entries are due April 29, the next compost collection will be held May 2 at Foundation Park and residents are encouraged to use the city's notification system for updates. Passed legislation • Resolution No. #2026-26: A resolution authorizing the Mayor of the City of Fostoria to prepare and submit a 2026 application to participate in the Hancock County Park Grant Program(s) and to execute contracts as required, and declaring an emergency to exist. (Third reading) • Resolution No. #2026-27: A resolution authorizing the Mayor of the City of Fostoria to prepare and submit a 2026 application to participate in the Seneca County Park Grant Program(s) and to execute contracts as required, and declaring an emergency to exist. (Third reading) • Resolution No. #2026-28: A resolution authorizing the Mayor of the City of Fostoria to prepare and submit a 2026 application to participate in the Wood County Park Grant Program(s) and to execute contracts as required, and declaring an emergency to exist. (Third reading) • Ordinance No. #2026-29: An ordinance authorizing an appointed Director of Finance to perform certain duties and functions as required to carry out the essential duties of the position as outlined in the approved job description, and declaring an emergency to exist. (Passed with suspension of the three-reading rule) • Resolution No. #2026-30: A resolution approving and ratifying the prior acts of department heads and the safety service director and approving then-and-now certificates for said expenditures, and declaring an emergency to exist. (Passed with suspension of the three-reading rule) Several other ordinances received their first or second readings, with items related to the personnel policy manual, street resurfacing, and other administrative matters.