Van Wert City Council spent much of its latest meeting reviewing proposed changes to the city’s door‑to‑door sales ordinance, while also hearing plans for upcoming America 250 festivities and a new “Heroes Corners” designation downtown.
The meeting opened with approval of the May 27 consent agenda and the May 11 meeting minutes. All members present voted in favor.
A representative of the local Navy Club outlined plans for the July 3–4 celebration, including craft vendors, food trucks, bounce houses, musical performances, a Saturday cruise‑in and an 11 a.m. parade. He also announced that the intersection of Main and Washington will be designated “Heroes Corners,” with new red and gray signs planned. An Air Force flyover is expected, though the aircraft type has not yet been confirmed. He said donations are still being accepted for the event.
During administrative reports, the mayor revisited earlier discussions on Chapter 115, which governs permits for door‑to‑door sales. He suggested changing the permit expiration from the current Dec. 31 deadline to a one‑year period beginning at issuance. He also noted a recommendation to remove the word “written” from the section requiring a written complaint before action can be taken, saying verbal complaints are already accepted for other issues.
Council members then held an extended discussion on potential updates, including increasing the permit fee, adding a city‑issued identification badge with a photograph, clarifying background check procedures, and adjusting exemptions for nonprofits and school‑related groups. Members also discussed whether delivery services and door hangers fall under the ordinance and whether penalties should be increased.
The mayor said the administration would review the suggestions and return with draft language.
Later in the meeting, council members discussed the timing of permit expirations, enforcement history, and concerns raised by residents about aggressive solicitors. One member noted receiving a door hanger shortly before the meeting and questioned whether such materials are covered under current definitions.
Council also briefly discussed the administrative reasons behind the original year‑end expiration date, with the mayor suggesting it may have been tied to seasonal activity.
No votes were taken on the ordinance changes.