The Tiffin City Council voted unanimously Nov. 17 to pass ordinance 2025‑92, authorizing the mayor to accept temporary and permanent easements needed for the Tiffin interceptor upgrade project and declaring an emergency to accelerate the work.

City Engineer Matt Watson told the streets committee that combining main and Benner interceptor work offers a cost benefit and will require new river crossing work and new 24‑inch siphons; he said three easements have already been agreed to and that one easement involves demoing and replacing an existing garage. "We hired a firm to prepare an appraisal and negotiate offers for the easements necessary on the city's behalf," Watson said. He asked for authority to enter into agreements and to expend $90,000 from a sewer fund to pay property owners.

Law Director Zachary Fowler noted the project is funded through the WPCLF loan process and that the city must provide just compensation to property owners. Council suspended the reading rule, approved the emergency declaration and passed the ordinance by roll call, 7–0.

Why it matters: The interceptor upgrade is a major sewer project requiring property easements and private‑property compensation; passing the ordinance and approving emergency measures let the city secure easements and begin procurement and construction tasks sooner.

What’s next: The city will continue appraisals and negotiations, complete plans by Dec. 1 per Watson, and expects construction to begin as early as next summer pending permitting and funding steps.

Source: City Engineer Matt Watson; Law Director Zachary Fowler; roll‑call record on ordinance 2025‑92 (passed 7–0).