GIRARD — Because of concerns about people riding ATVs on public land, including city parks, late at night, the police department has been patrolling for violators.

Police Chief John Freeman told city officials earlier this week that officers have watched the trails at Tod Park for ATV riders. The street department assisted the police with placing barricades, guardrails and signage at the park to prevent ATVs.

“There has been a lot of activity around the town,” Freeman said.

He said information has been displayed regarding rules for ATVs and where they can be ridden.

Mayor Mark Zuppo has previously said he spoke with Freeman about golf carts and e-bikes on the roads, as well as ATVs being driven on public property, sometimes as late as 11 p.m. or midnight.

Zuppo said he has spoken to officials in Salem and other communities on ordinances they have in place to address the issue.

“We have an ATV problem in the city. We get a lot of calls and complaints from residents,” he said.

Freeman said he has researched the operation of recreational vehicles in other municipalities.

He is seeking grant funding for drones that can be utilized in areas where there are accidents and other incidents. Police and law enforcement often use drones for checking areas that may not be able to be reached on foot.

In other business, council heard from resident Vernon Mitchell of West Prospect Street about stray cats in the neighborhood. He said the cats are coming onto the porches of homes. Residents at past council meetings also have reported issues with stray cats roaming their neighborhoods.

Zuppo has called the Animal Welfare League, which sent an animal control officer to the city to look for feral cats.

In other business, council:

• Heard from Safety / Service Director Mark Ragozine about seeking $125,000 in Ohio Public Works Commission funds for replacing 400 feet of an 85-year-old aging sewer line along Shannon Road from Dravis Avenue to Churchill Road. The city also will seek $195,000 from the Appalachian Regional Commission. Ragozine said there have been problems with backups, sinkholes and odors.

• Heard from Auditor Julie Coggins that the ambulance service fund has $235,748, as collections for ambulance service have been good. She said American Rescue Plan funds, which need to be used by the end of 2026, have covered costs for asbestos removal at the Wellman Theater.

• Announced Christmas in the Park will be 4 to 7 p.m, Saturday at Tod Park.

• Scheduled caucus session for 6:30 p.m. Dec. 8 regarding the proposed new agreement for police sergeants and captains.

• Announced the swearing-in ceremony for new council members will be 7 p.m. Dec. 30 in council chambers.