Show All Answers

1. When will the project begin?

A contract will be awarded in the fall of 2021. The majority of construction will take place in 2022, but some preliminary work is possible in late 2021.

2. Why doesn’t it start sooner?

Federal and State funding will assist in a substantial portion of project funding. We must wait until this funding is available; the City would pay 100% of the cost otherwise.

3. How is this project being paid for?

The total estimated cost is $4.5 million. It will be paid for as follows:

• Federal Highway Safety Funds - $1.1 million (24%)
• ODOT Small Cities Program - $1.45 million (32%)
• City of Galion share - $1.95 million (44%). License plate tax revenues, state and local gas tax revenues, and the issuance of notes will be used.

4. Will the highway be closed during construction?

No. Temporary pavement will be installed on one side of the project area. We are still determining which side to place the temporary pavement on. The temporary lanes will be 11 feet wide, which is narrower than the current lane width. Commercial traffic and other large vehicles will have a commercial detour route.

5. How much will the road be extended on each side?

This is a symmetrical widening. Eight feet will be added on each side, increasing the roadway width from 24 feet to 40 feet.

6. Will properties with frontage on 598 lose some of their land?

Federal rules must be followed for all land acquisition. Most of the property takes are temporary during construction, and the widened roadway will fit within the existing right-of-way. Actual property line dimensions are not expected to change, although this will be reviewed case-by-case.

7. I live or work within the project area. What should I expect?

Road construction is often messy, inconvenient, and loud. While access to driveways will be maintained during construction, expect a rough ride and travel delays getting through the project area. In your yard, only a minimal amount of digging for the widened portions of road is necessary. The contractor will instead use a cement stabilization material in the subgrade of the road surface. The contractor is responsible for moving and replacing mailboxes. Any other obstructions you may have will be reviewed case-by-case.

8. What happens to the driveways for homes and businesses?

The section of driveways within the construction area will need to be torn out. After road work is completed, the end of driveways will be reconstructed with like materials (asphalt drives will receive asphalt, concrete drives will receive concrete).

9. Are traffic signals or other improvements included?

No. After the project is complete, the City of Galion will fund an updated traffic study on the SR 598 corridor to look at changes in traffic patterns and the impact of any future commercial growth. This study could warrant additional traffic signals.

10. Will sidewalks and curbing be included?

No sidewalks or curbing are included in the project scope. Both items significantly increased the project cost.

Show All Answers

1. How do I know if I need a permit?

Simply call the Building Department at 419-468-2642 and describe the type of work you would like to do. We will help you determine if a permit is necessary, and which type you will need.

2. How do I obtain a permit?

All permits issued by the city are listed here. Just find the permit you need and fill out the application form. You may turn in or mail to 115 Harding Way East, email to ericbaldinger@galion.city, or fax to 419-468-7620. Please note commercial permits and inspections are handled by the Richland County Building Department.

3. How much does a permit cost?

Costs vary by permit. All fees are listed on pages 4 and 5 of the Fee Schedule.

4. I submitted my application. How long does it take to get the permit?

Turnaround time depends on the complexity of your project and if we receive sufficient information from you. Please allow at least 1 week for review, although most permits are issued in less time. NEVER assume you will get a permit on the same day you apply.

5. How do I schedule an inspection?

Please call 419-468-2642 for residential inspections. If you need a commercial inspection, call the Richland County Building Department at 419-774-5517.

6. How do I find which Zoning District a house or building is located in?

View the Galion Zoning Map. Street addresses are not labeled, so it is easiest to compare the zoning map with a Google map to ensure you look at the correct property. Zoning districts are labeled by color. After you determine a district, Chapter 11 of the Codified Ordinances explains the regulations for each district.

7. How do I locate my property lines?

You can search for your property on the Crawford County Auditor website to get a general idea of your property lines. To confirm an exact location, you may need to hire a surveyor. There are several professional surveyors in the area.

8. How do I find information about the building code and local zoning?

The City of Galion Planning and Zoning Code is available online. If you have trouble finding the information you need or have questions, please call the Building Official at 419-468-2642.

Show All Answers

1. How do I arrange for a meter to be removed if I am replacing my siding?

Do not remove the meter yourself. Call the Electric Line Division at 419-468-5520 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday to help you.

2. What do I have to do if I am upgrading or changing my electric service?

Call the Electric Line Division between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. at 419-468-5520, Monday through Friday. A permit is required before you are upgrade your service. The new meter base must be purchased from the Electric Line Division. The installation of a disconnect is required whenever there is a change to the outside service. An inspection is required before you start your job.

3. Who do I call to report tree limbs interfering with electric lines?

Call the Electric Line Division at 419-468-5520 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.

4. How do I report a street or traffic light not working?

Call Electric Line Division at 419-468-5520 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. After these hours call the Galion Police Dept. at 419-468-9111.

5. Can I donate a Christmas tree?

Yes, just call 419-468-5520 and we will put you on the list.

6. What is a disconnect or main breaker? How do I use it?

A disconnect or main breaker is used to cut off power to your entire home. In an emergency, such as during an appliance fire or while rescuing a person from household electrical shock, cut off the power to your house at the disconnect or main breaker. If it is faster for you to access your circuit breaker panel or your fuse box, turn all the breakers off or unscrew all the fuses to cut off power to the house.

7. What do I do if I see downed power lines?

Most overhead power lines are not insulated. When lines from a utility pole fall to the ground, always assume they are energized and dangerous. Energized lines can be deceiving by appearing lifeless and harmless but do not touch the lines! Stay a safe distance away (50 feet or more). See our storm safety page for more important information on downed lines. If someone is in contact with a fallen line, don't try to rescue them because you risk becoming a victim yourself. Warn others to stay away and call 911 for help.

8. What if the downed line is touching the car while I'm in it?

A car touching a downed line will become energized. Remain where you are, if possible, and wait for help. Do not step out of the car. If you must get out of the car because of fire or some other hazard, jump free of the car so that your body clears the vehicle before touching the ground. Once you clear the car, shuffle at least 50 feet away, with both feet on the ground. See our storm safety page for more important information on downed lines.

9. How do I handle an electrical shock?

There are 2 classifications of electric shock - low voltage and high voltage.

Low Voltage (Household)

• Call for emergency medical help immediately by dialing 911.
• Determine if the person is still in contact with the circuit or power source. If the person is in contact, assume the circuit is still energized.
• Turn off the power at your fuse box or circuit breaker panel.
• If you can't turn the power off, use a dry piece of wood, a plastic or wooden broom, or dry leather clothing to separate the victim from the power source.
• Never attempt to remove a person from an energized circuit with your bare hands!
• Once the victim is free, if they are not breathing or does not have a heartbeat, start CPR immediately; the victim is probably in cardiac arrest (Do not attempt CPR if you don't know the correct procedures).
• If the victim is conscious, keep them seated and quiet. Take the victim to the hospital for testing and observation or call 911.

High Voltage (Outdoor)

• If a person is in contact with a power line, assume the line to be energized and dangerous.
• Do not attempt to use an insulating device to free the person from the power line.
• Stay clear and warn others to keep away (50 feet or more).
• Call immediately for emergency medical help by dialing 911.
• Call your electric utility company.

10. How do I handle electrical fires?

Always be prepared. Keep a multi-purpose, type "ABC" (type "C" for electrical fires) fire extinguisher nearby. Mount the fire extinguisher in plain view near an escape route and away from potential fire hazards such as heating appliances. Review the manufacturer's instructions and know how to use the extinguisher prior having an emergency. If there is a fire:

• Make sure everyone has left or is leaving the house before attempting to fight a fire.
• Don't fight the fire if the fire could block your escape route.
• Call 911 for help even if the fire seems small and you think you can put it out.
• If the fire is confined to an appliance, electrical cord, outlet, or switch, shut off the power by opening your main breaker or disconnect, which is usually located near the electric meter. If it is faster, shut off the circuit breakers at your electric service panel or unscrew the fuses at the fuse box. Do this only if you can do so without endangering yourself.
• Never use water on an electrical fire! Water can carry the electricity back to you and you could receive a deadly shock.
• Use your multi-purpose or "C" fire extinguisher to put out the fire. If you manage to put out the fire, have the firefighters check to be sure the fire is not smoldering out of plain sight.

11. How do I prevent an electrical "dig-in" when excavating on my property?

Before excavating always call OUPS at 1-800-362-2764 if you are in Ohio. Do not dig until all utilities have located and marked the lines. If there is pad-mounted electrical equipment near the work area, then it is a good indication that underground lines exist. You must contact OUPS first. To prevent delays, your electric utility will require at least 72 hours notice. There is no charge for this service.

12. What do I do if I damage an underground electric line?

If an underground power line is damaged during excavation, warn others to keep away and call for your electric utility company or 911 immediately. If an underground power line is damaged when excavating with a backhoe or other mechanical equipment, the operator should remain on the equipment or vehicle until the equipment can be moved and cleared from the power line. If the operator must get off because of fire or some other hazard, the operator must jump free rather than step off the equipment. The operator should never step down or simultaneously touch the ground and equipment that is in contact with the power line.

13. What do I do if I hear noises or sounds coming from power lines and transformers?

Most sounds and noises such as static or humming noises are normal. However, if you hear unusual sounds such as an explosion from the power lines or transformers, please call your electric utility office immediately.

14. If my home becomes flooded, when are the electrical outlets safe to use?

You should have your electrical system inspected by a licensed electrician after a flood. Have the electrician visually inspect your system and perform tests to determine any deterioration in the system.

Show All Answers

1. What is Galion's current income tax rate?

The current income tax rate for Galion is 2% of gross income.

2. How much credit can I claim for taxes paid to other cities?

The limit on credit you may claim is 1%.

3. How can I get an extension with the city?

Send a copy of your Federal Tax Extension to:

Regional Income Tax Agency

10107 Brecksville Road

Brecksville, OH 44141-3275

4. Can I take a loss against W-2 wages?

You can not take a loss against your W-2 wages. This law was changed for the 2002 tax season. If you have rental property, a business, or any type of supplemental income that results in a loss for the tax year, you may no longer take that loss against W-2 wages.

Show All Answers

1. How do I find homes available to buy or rent?

There are several local realtors able to help you find a home. Click here for contact information.

2. Who is the City's electric provider?

The City of Galion is a public power community, and distributes electricity to all residences and buildings in the City as well to several outside of its corporate limits. For more information on City of Galion utilities and to establish, transfer, or stop service, call the Utility Office at 419-468-6611 or click here. The city also provides water and sewer for most customers within the city limits.

3. How do I get cable and internet services?

Cable and internet providers that service the Galion area include:

Spectrum - 1-855-243-8892   Visit Spectrum website

Frontier - 1-844-309-2630  Visit Frontier website

CenturyLink - 877-862-9343  Visit CenturyLink website

Allconnect - 1-844-739-5943  Visit Allconnect website

4. Who is the City's garbage provider?

The City of Galion does not provide trash collection services. Residents and businesses contract with a number of private companies that provide this service. A list is available here. 

The trash collection schedule is divided into four zones:
Ward 1 - Monday and Tuesday
Ward 2 - Tuesday and Wednesday
Ward 3 - Wednesday and Thursday
Ward 4 - Thursday and Friday

5. How do I get natural gas service?

Columbia Gas of Ohio provides natural gas service. The customer service number is 1-800-344-4077.

6. How can I find a local physician?

Avita Health System, based in Galion with additional facilities in Bucyrus and Ontario, operates a physician referral line at: (419) 468-0961.

7. What schools are available in the area?

The local public school district is Galion City Schools. There is also a parochial school called Galion St. Joseph's Catholic School for grades K-8, an online school called GOAL Digital Academy, and a specialized education center called Pioneer Career and Technical Center.

For more information, visit the Education page.

Show All Answers

1. Where can I pay citations and bonds?

You can pay citations and bonds at Municipal Court East (Galion) or Municipal West (Bucyrus) or through the court's website, Crestline Police Department, or Bucyrus Police Department.

2. How do I get a copy of a police report or get a record check?

Call or stop in to the Records Division (2nd floor of municipal building) and they can help you. You can normally obtain records Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.

3. When I call 911 for emergency assistance, who answers the phone?

The police dispatcher answers all 911 phone calls. Once the type of emergency is determined it is transferred to the appropriate agency, i.e., Fire or EMS.

4. Do you know if ________ has a warrant?

We cannot give out that information to anyone other than the person who believes they have the warrant. In order for us to check on a warrant, that person needs to come to the station and bring a photo ID with them.

5. How can I safely dispose of unneeded or expired medications?

The Police Department has a drop-off box in the lobby. Citizens are welcome to place medications there. Please note liquids and any needles or sharp objects are NOT accepted.

6. I found a dog, can you come and get it?

We do not have a place to hold stray dogs (or cats). If it is during the day on weekdays, we can contact the Dog Warden for stray dogs (they do not handle cats, the Humane Society takes the cats). If it is after hours or weekends - if you can hold the dog, we can have it picked up the next weekday morning. You may take it to the Humane Society and put it in their drop off boxes.

7. Can you tell me my court date? -OR- I missed my court date, what do I do?

To find information on your court date, you need to contact Municipal Court at 419-468-6819.

8. What can you do about my neighbor's dog barking or running loose?

We must witness the dog barking or running loose. If you have a complaint, call 419-468-5255 while the action is in progress, not after the dog has been tied up or has stopped barking.

9. What do I do if a police officer turns on his lights and siren to stop me?

When a police officer turns on their lights and siren to stop you, you should immediately pull to the edge of the roadway and place your vehicle in park. Always remain inside your vehicle unless instructed to exit your vehicle. It is very important that you place your hands in plain view of the officer; this is to ensure the safety of our officers and the citizens that we have contacted. This is a very stressful incident for both the citizen and the officer and we will do everything possible to get you back on your way.

10. What can I do about speeding in my neighborhood?

The Galion Police Department invites requests for traffic enforcement, especially in residential areas. Simply call the non-emergency telephone number 419-468-9111 and report the problem. Once a complaint is received, officers are notified and assigned to monitor speeds in the affected area.

11. I received a traffic citation. What can I do about it?

Once a citation is written, it is forwarded to Crawford County Municipal Court the next business day. You can either pay the waiver amount on the back of the citation, or if you wish to contest the citation you will need to appear in court on the time and date listed on the bottom of the citation.

12. What time is curfew?

Under age 12:

• 9 p.m. to dawn (year round)

Age 12 - 18:

• Friday and Saturday between the hours of Midnight and 4:30 a.m. of the following day
• Sunday through and including Thursday from 11 p.m. - 4:30 a.m. of the following day

Please note:These times established for Friday and Saturday are for the months of September through May. For the months June, July, and August, the curfew hours are altered for Friday and Saturday to 1 a.m. through 4:30 a.m.

All curfew times do not apply to minors who are with their parent, guardian, or other adult person having the care and custody of the minor. Curfew times can be found in the Codified Ordinances of Galion, 531.01 and 531.02.

13. How can I assist the police or other emergency response units with locating my residence quickly?

Have your address displayed in a location easily observed from the street. An address displays by the front door near or by an outside light (or reflective lettering) makes it easier for responding personnel to locate the address in day and night conditions. Also, during an emergency have someone stand by the street if possible to flag down the responding personnel and to provide additional information.

14. If my driver's license is expired, how long do I have to renew it?

You have 6 months to renew your license before you have to re-take the driving test in the State of Ohio. However, there is no grace period for driving on an expired license. Your driver's license expires every 4 years on your birthday.

15. Does Galion have an alert system for tornadoes?

Yes, there are four sirens located in the community. A siren test is conducted every Friday at noon.

Show All Answers

1. Why do electric companies trim trees in my yard?

Electric companies are required to maintain the reliability and safety of their system. This is partly done by keeping branches away from power lines.

2. Are utility companies allowed to enter my property?

Yes, utility companies may enter properties to trim any branches that are touching or are close to power lines. This right is because of easement.

3. Do tree trimmers use any standards to protect the trees?

When trimming, the electric utility attempts to cut trees in ways that reduce stress and reduce the possibility of disease for the tree.

4. How much tree trimming will be done?

Trimming will usually involve clearing branches to allow at least 10 feet of space surrounding a power line. These are federal health and safety guidelines that help protect tree trimmers that are not specifically qualified to work around power lines.

5. What can I do to avoid having the electric utility trim my trees?

When planting trees in your yard, select a location away from power lines. Check with a nursery about the correct types of trees for planting in the space you have available. Each year trim all trees and bushes to keep them from growing toward the power lines.

Show All Answers

1. Can Galion's water supply keep up with demand and continued growth?

Yes. For more information, view the Growth vs. Water Supply webpage.