This community won't allow large Halloween parties

VERMILION — Considering the current COVID-19 pandemic, Jim Forthofer's latest announcement about Halloween really shouldn't scare or spook people. During a recent public meeting, Vermilion's mayor indicated he'll follow various safety directives coming from the Erie County Health Department regarding the holiday. While he'll allow for trick-or-treating — set for 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31 in city limits — Forthofer won't tolerate: • Large indoor parties • Groups of 10 or more people traveling together for, say, trick-or-treating • Help-yourself candy buckets some people put out for children if they're not home; "Too many little hands contaminate candy," he said. Residents distributing candy, meanwhile: • Must do so wearing gloves • Are encouraged to stand several feet away from and outside of their home's entranceway "Practice distancing, use sanitizer and wear a mask if it not past or your costume," he said. This and that Among some other topics of discussing taking place at this meeting: • Pathway plans: Forthofer expects a walking surface on East Liberty Avenue (U.S. 6) between Sunnyside Road and Vintage Crossing to be completed in the near future. David Prince, the co-owner of a nearby local truck repair business, is heading up this project. "He wants to do something for the community to make East Liberty look nice," Forthofer said. • New business possibilities: Forthofer is talking with "several large medical facilities and education institutions" about a potential development opportunity near the Baumhart Road exit off Ohio 2. • Don't post signs on posts: "Political participation is encouraged, however, no signs of any kind — whether political or not — may be placed on city property, including right-of-ways, tree lawns, city parks or other city property. No signs may be posted on utility or light poles," Forhtofer said. "We will remove them." • Stay in touch: Officials are looking at ways to improve communication with residents. This would include updating both City Hall's current phone and texting alert systems.