EAST LIVERPOOL — Safety Service Director Bill Jones issued a statement saying that the City of East Liverpool wants to clear up information circulating on social media regarding the wharf for the residents and stakeholders.

A group of residents had posted on Facebook plans to do work on the Wharf but did not seek any authorization from the city before planning to proceed with work on public property. While the intents are good, there is an issue of liability, Jennifer Barrett, SSDA said.

The city has applied to U.S. Rep. Michael Rulli’s office for funding on engineering and design of a new wharf structure and encourages anyone who would like to support that application to contact Rulli’s office to express their support for this future project.

The statement issued by Jones said:

“The deterioration of the wharf has been years in the making. Mayor (Bobby) Smith’s administration is actively seeking funding to replace and improve the wharf area as a whole with a new and complete vision.

At this time, however, no projects, developments, or activities at the city wharf have been authorized or approved by the City at this time due to the very real concerns of liability issues should injuries occur or engineering requirements for the future safety of residents and patrons.

“Any information suggesting that work has been sanctioned or permitted at the wharf is inaccurate. The City has not issued approvals, permits, or agreements related to any such efforts.

“City officials remain committed to transparency and will provide updates when official plans and approvals are made regarding the wharf.”

Residents with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the Safety Service Director’s office directly at 330-386-6584 for accurate and up-to-date information.