City Commission

2068 CITY COMMISSION — REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 26 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 CITY COMMISSION MEETING On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 8:31 a.m., the Dayton City Commission met in regular session in the Commission Chambers of City Hall. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Mims called the meeting to order. INVOCATION Commissioner Shaw gave the invocation. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mayor Mims led the public in the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL Roll call was taken, and Mayor Mims, Commissioners Joseph, Shaw, Fairchild, and Turner-Sloss were present. The Clerk of the Commission, Ms. Regina Blackshear, and the City Manager, Ms. Shelley Dickstein, were also present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Fairchild made a motion to approve the minutes from the February 19, 2025, meeting. Commissioner Shaw seconded the motion. The previous meeting minutes were unanimously approved. COMMUNICATIONS AND PETITIONS There were none. PRESENTATION AND SPECIAL AWARDS January 2025 Demolition Update In January 2025, the city completed seven demolitions, all funded by ARPA. These demolitions took place in various neighborhoods, including Edgemont, Southern Dayton View, the Main Street Corridor, and Fairview. As of the end of January, 89 debris piles remained, an increase from 87 the previous month. While one debris pile was removed, three new ones were added at 203 Grove, 817 Katalpa, and 1216 Noble. The city continues to monitor and address these sites to ensure they do not become hazards or attract illegal dumping. In addition to demolitions, eight new structures were added to the structural nuisance list in January. These buildings, often severely damaged by fire or long-term neglect, present safety concerns for the community. While they are not immediately scheduled for demolition, their classification as nuisances allows the city to prioritize them for potential removal in the future. The city is also making significant progress in preparing for future demolitions. In January, 23 properties entered the title report process, an essential step in legally securing the right to demolish abandoned or hazardous structures. Meanwhile, 16 properties completed asbestos remediation and are now ready for demolition. With this momentum, the city expects a strong February pipeline, as properties move through the legal and environmental processes required before they can be torn down. Mr. Gondol played a video that highlighted resident feedback, which reinforced the urgent need for these demolitions. Many of the demolished properties were severely deteriorated, with structural issues such as collapsed roofs, foundation damage, and  2069 CITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 26 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 overgrown vegetation. Beyond their physical condition, these buildings had become hubs for criminal activity, attracting drug use, squatting, and vandalism. Residents also reported that abandoned structures were being used as illegal dumping grounds, with piles of trash, discarded mattresses, and broken glass accumulating over time. Some homeowners faced insurance challenges due to fire risks posed by nearby vacant properties. The removal of these structures has already led to positive changes in the community. Residents have reported reduced criminal activity and loitering in the areas where demolitions have taken place. The cleared lots offer opportunities for new home construction and neighborhood revitalization, helping to stabilize and increase property values. With fewer vacant and deteriorated buildings, residents feel a greater sense of security, and their pride in the community is being restored. Mr. Steve Gondol wrapped up the presentation by thanking the residents who shared their stories for the video, highlighting the positive impact of demolitions on their neighborhoods. He also thanked Andrew Estevez from Public Affairs for helping produce the video. Steve then introduced his housing team, recognizing Division Manager James McDaniel, Nuisance Abatement Supervisor Ken Jackson, and specialists Tonya Morrow, Richard Lovelace, David Wetzel, and Josh Laudermilk, along with Stephanie Halfacre and Eulainia McGriff for their administrative support. He emphasized that the team is responsible for tracking monthly demolition numbers and driving improvements in Dayton’s neighborhoods. Commissioner Turner-Sloss thanked Mr. Gondol for his team's work and asked why there was only one fire pile removal in January. Mr. Gondol explained that January was a transitional month, but work had ramped up in February with multiple removals planned. He also confirmed that an agreement for 55 fire pile removals had been approved in late 2023 and offered to provide a contract update through the city manager. Commissioner Turner-Sloss requested an electronic copy of the update and asked Mr. Gondol to recognize the housing inspectors working in the field. She also inquired about the status of the Cornell grocery store site and a partially demolished property in Huffman. Commissioner Fairchild thanked Mr. Gondol and his team for their important work addressing abandoned properties and asked if the comprehensive elements from previous reports, like the total number of outstanding fire piles and structures on the nuisance list, would be included again. Mr. Gondol confirmed that they were rolling up the previous year's numbers and adding data for 2024. He also mentioned starting a new map for 2025 to distinguish demolitions by year, while maintaining the same format for the report moving forward. Commissioner Shaw expressed his gratitude to the staff and praised the video, stating that while a picture is worth a thousand words, a video is likely worth ten thousand words. He thanked them for including it in the presentation. Commissioner Joseph thanked Steve and the staff for their vital work, emphasizing that the demolition of abandoned properties is a frequent topic at neighborhood meetings. He noted the significant impact, citing that 1,100 properties had been demolished over the past couple of years, which is greatly appreciated by the community. He also mentioned that residents smile bigger when they discuss the improvements, reinforcing how important the work is. He ended by congratulating the team for their efforts. 2070 CITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 26 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 Solid Waste Management Plan Mr. John Miner, the Education Outreach Manager for Montgomery County Environmental Services, gave an overview of the Solid Waste Management Plan. He explained the history and purpose of the Solid Waste District, which was created in 1989 and aims to manage waste and ensure proper disposal capacity for the next 20 years. The plan is updated every five years, and it includes waste reduction goals, with a target of reducing residential and commercial waste by 25%. Key aspects of the plan include ensuring disposal capacity and meeting waste reduction goals. The district has reached 92% industrial waste reduction and aims for 30% residential/commercial waste reduction by 2030. The plan also includes a 20-year budget, showing funding for various waste management programs. John also highlighted a proposed 65-cent increase in the generation fee, raising it from $3 to $3.65 per year per household starting in 2026, with annual 6% increases thereafter. This fee increase is necessary to balance the budget, as the district is drawing down extra funds. Commissioner Turner-Sloss thanked John Miner for his presentation and the helpful recommendation of adding a weather day for the public hearing. She also acknowledged Mr. Stovall and Ms. Maloney for their contributions. John Miner praised the professionalism of the team, including Mr. Stovall, Ms. Malone, and Mr. Richie, and expressed that he would miss Fred but was confident in the team's future success in solid waste management. Commissioner Fairchild inquired whether the cost increase for solid waste management would be passed on to residents. John Miner explained that the 65-cent increase per ton would affect the city's budget, but how it is handled by municipalities is up to them. Commissioner Fairchild thanked him for the explanation and presentation. Commissioner Joseph thanked John Miner and his staff for providing valuable services, such as brush pickup and household hazardous waste management, which prevent contamination and illegal dumping. Mr. Miner mentioned a new initiative to help cities like Dayton with fluctuating recycling rates. In response to recommendations from Mr. Stovall, they plan to include a grant program to help ease the financial impact of recycling market fluctuations. This initiative is expected to be part of the 2026 grant process. ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO THE CALENDAR There were no additions or deletions. DISCUSSION OF CALENDAR ITEMS The City Manager acknowledged several calendar items related to the city's water and sewer systems, emphasizing investments in these critical areas. Nearly $3 million is being invested in capital projects for the water and sewer systems, with an additional $600,000+ allocated for maintenance of key facilities. These investments are crucial for improving and maintaining the city's infrastructure. CITIZENS’? COMMENTS ON CALENDAR ITEMS There were no citizen comments.  2071 CITY COMMISSION _ REGULAR MEETING Fresruary 26 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 REPORTS A. Purchase Orders, Agreements, and Contracts: (All contracts are valid until delivery is complete or through December 31* of the current year). 1. Purchase Orders: POLICE Al. Superior Uniform Sales, Inc. (police body armor and related items as needed through 12/31/29) $447,040.00 -Department of Police. TOTAL: $447,040.00 Service Agreements 2. Arcadis U.S., Inc. — Service Agreement — for planning, procurement, and implementation management of an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) — Department of Water/Water Engineering. $114,000.00 (Thru 12/31/26) 3. Axon Enterprise Inc. — Contract Modification — second renewal for TASER 7 subscription services, equipment, and training — Department of Police/Director’s Office. $239,379.97 (Thru 03/31/26) 4. Xylem Vue, Inc. — Service Agreement — to cover services/work needed for maintenance and support services for the real-time decision support system for the wastewater collection system — Department of Water/Water Engineering. $1,212,000.00 (Thru 12/31/27) B. Construction Contracts: 5. AKA Construction, Inc. -Award of Contract - for the Water Administration Building Fourth Floor Alterations (5% MBE Participation Goal/5.1% MBE Participation Goal Achieved— Department of Water/Water Engineering. $260,689.00 (Thru 08/31/26) 6. Black & Veatch Corporation -Award of Contract - for the Sanitary Collection System Master Plan and Model Update (10% SBE Participation Goal/16% SBE Participation Goal Achieved - Department of Water/Water Engineering. $1,060,000.00 (Thru 12/31/26) 7. C.G. Construction & Utilities, Inc. -Award of Contract - for Midtown Water Main Improvements (10% MBE Participation Goal/10.12% MBE Participation Goal Achieved) — Department of Water/Water Engineering. $566,047.30 (Thru 10/31/26) 2072 CITY COMMISSION | REGULAR MEETING Frepruary 26 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 8. Peterson Construction Co. -Award of Contract — for construction of the cooling unit replacement at the Water Reclamation Facility (5% MBE Participation Goal/5.7% MBE Participation Goal Achieved) — Department of Water/Water Reclamation. $389,000.00 (Thru 06/30/26) E. Other — Contributions, Etc.: 9. Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission -Other- 2025 MVRPC Annual Membership Dues — Department of Planning Neighborhoods and Development/ Planning. $72,951.32 (Thru 12/31/25) APPROVAL OF CITY MANAGER’S REPORTS Commissioner Shaw made the motion to approve the City Manager’s Reports. Commissioner Fairchild seconded the motion. The City Manager’s Reports were approved with a 5-0 vote. Voting in the affirmative were Mayor Mims, Commissioners Joseph, Shaw, Fairchild, and Turner-Sloss. LEGISLATION Emergency Resolution- First and Second Reading No. 6850-25 — Approving the Solid Waste Management Plan of the Montgomery County Solid Waste Management District and Declaring an Emergency. The question being shall Emergency Resolution No. 6850-25 be adopted. Commissioner Turner-Sloss made the motion for the immediate passage of Emergency Resolution No. 6850-25. Commissioner Joseph seconded this motion. A roll call vote was taken resulting in a 5-0 vote. Voting in the affirmative were Mayor Mims, Commissioners Joseph, Shaw, Fairchild, and Turner-Sloss. The Resolution was adopted. Ordinances- Second Reading No. 32139-25 - Appropriating Funds for the Year 2025 to Provide for the Operating and Capital Expenses of Various Offices, Departments, Government of the City of Dayton. A roll call vote was taken resulting in a 5-0 vote. Voting in the affirmative were Mayor Mims, Commissioners Joseph, Shaw, Fairchild, and Turner-Sloss. The Ordinance was adopted. No. 32140-25 - Consenting to Perform Concrete Pavement Repairs on US Route 35 from Straight Line Mile (SLM) 11.75 to 14.34 (Liscum Drive to James H. McGee Boulevard) in the City of Dayton, and Agreeing to Cooperate in Matters Incidental Thereto, Including the Execution of an Agreement Necessary to Implement this Ordinance.  2073 CITY COMMISSION _ REGULAR MEETING Fresruary 26 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 A roll call vote was taken resulting in a 5-0 vote. Voting in the affirmative were Mayor Mims, Commissioners Joseph, Shaw, Fairchild, and Turner-Sloss. The Ordinance was adopted. Resolution- Second Reading No. 6849-25 - Supporting the Ohio Commission for the United States Semi- Quincentennial (AMERICA250-OH). A roll call vote was taken resulting in a 5-0 vote. Voting in the affirmative were Mayor Mims, Commissioners Joseph, Shaw, Fairchild, and Turner-Sloss. The Resolution was adopted. Board Appointment Commissioner Fairchild moved to have Andrea Hirtle on the Environmental Advisory Board in a term ending November 27, 2025. Commissioner Shaw seconded this motion. Voting in the affirmative were Mayor Mims, Commissioners Joseph, Shaw, Fairchild, and Turner-Sloss. CITIZENS’ COMMENTS There was one citizen registered to speak. 1. Mr. Kimaru Wa-Tenza, 1200 Grand Ave- spoke about U.S. support for Israel, likening it to past support for South African apartheid, and called for the commission to divest from Israel. COMMENTS BY THE CITY MANAGER Fred Stovall’s Retirement Ms. Shelley Dickstein recognized and celebrated the retirement of Fred Stovall, the Director of Public Works, after more than two decades of service to the City of Dayton. Since joining the city in 2002, Stovall has played a pivotal role in shaping Dayton’s infrastructure and public services, overseeing significant growth in the department’s budget from $26 million to $52 million and managing a workforce of up to 485 employees. Throughout his tenure, Mr. Stovall led numerous initiatives that improved the quality of life for Dayton residents. He enhanced trash and recycling programs, improved roadway maintenance strategies, and modernized Fleet Services. His leadership in innovation was evident through the establishment of a Public Works call center and the integration of GIS technology to streamline service delivery. Mr. Stovall prioritized responsiveness to resident concerns, ensuring that neighborhood groups and individuals felt heard. His commitment to customer service strengthened trust between the Public Works Department and the community. He spearheaded the launch of the "Dayton Delivers" platform, a user-friendly technology system that allowed residents to engage with the city, submit service requests, and receive real-time updates on their concerns. He maintained an open-door policy, valuing employee input and engagement, and cultivated a team-oriented culture that emphasized collaboration, professional growth, and a shared commitment to serving Dayton’s residents. Under his leadership, the city strategically shifted how engineering estimates were advertised, resulting in increased competition among bidders and improved cost efficiency in capital projects. He introduced a data-driven approach to street maintenance by implementing a three-year cycle for assessing road conditions, which allowed the city 2074 CITY COMMISSION _recutar MEETING FEBRUARY 26 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 to prioritize repaving projects more effectively and align with commitments under voter- approved funding measures like Issue 9 and Issue 6. Through his dedication to excellence, innovation, and community engagement, Mr. Stovall transformed Dayton’s Public Works Department into a more efficient, responsive, and service-oriented operation. Ms. Dickstein expressed deep gratitude for his contributions, recognizing that his efforts have left a lasting impact on the city. She concluded by wishing him a long, healthy, and fulfilling retirement, emphasizing that Dayton is better because of his work. Fred Stovall expressed his gratitude as he addressed the commissioners, mayor, and city manager for the last time as Director of Public Works. He acknowledged the significance of this moment, noting that his tenure would officially end on Friday at 5:00 PM. Reflecting on his 24 years with the City of Dayton, including 22 years as director, he expressed appreciation for the support he received from four different mayors and various commissioners over the years. He also recognized that Shelley Dickstein was the fifth city manager he had worked with during his time in public service. Coming from the private sector, Mr. Stovall acknowledged the challenges of transitioning to public service, a journey that continued to test him even up to his last day. He highlighted the stark contrast between the two sectors, noting that private industry focuses on profitability and customer retention. He carried this customer service-driven mindset into his role with the city, believing that maintaining and serving existing residents with quality services would encourage more people to stay and, eventually, attract new ones. Mr. Stovall emphasized the importance of equity in city services, ensuring that all neighborhoods had access to resources and improvements. He credited the success of this effort to strong collaboration between Public Works, the Water Department, Police, Fire, and other city agencies. Working with neighborhood groups had been a particularly rewarding aspect of his career, though he reminded residents that true community improvement requires ongoing effort from both the city and the people. While Public Works could provide the foundation, he urged neighborhoods to take ownership and sustain those efforts. As he prepared for retirement, Mr. Stovall acknowledged that many residents would still reach out to him for guidance, joking that he would be redirecting those calls to the appropriate city officials. He closed by thanking the City of Dayton and its residents for the opportunity to serve, expressing his deep appreciation for the relationships he built and the impact he was able to make. Commissioner Turner-Sloss expressed her gratitude for Fred Stovall’s service, calling it an honor to work with him both as a colleague and elected official. She wished him happiness, good health, and a restful retirement, thanking his family for their support. She praised his stellar leadership and strong community relationships, commending his selflessness, professionalism, and kindness. She closed by offering her blessings and appreciation for his lasting impact on the city. Commissioner Fairchild thanked Fred Stovall for his dedicated service, highlighting his attention to detail and commitment to the city's cleanliness. He praised Stovall’s responsiveness to residents’ concerns about trash collection and his leadership in improving residential street conditions. He acknowledged Stovall’s data-driven approach,  2075 CITY COMMISSION recutar MEETING FEBRUARY 26 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 which helped raise street quality from the 40s to a 70 PCI rating. He closed by expressing gratitude on behalf of all residents for Stovall’s hard work and dedication. Commissioner Shaw thanked Fred Stovall for his impactful leadership, creativity, and innovation within the organization. He praised Mr. Stovall for fostering an environment where employees could improve equipment efficiency and for his dedication to engaging with neighborhood associations. Commissioner Shaw highlighted Mr. Stovall’s respect for the community and their appreciation for his responsiveness. He concluded by wishing him success in the future. Commissioner Joseph thanked Mr. Stovall, highlighting his ability to resolve complaints and tough situations, earning praise from residents for his customer service. He commended Stovall for encouraging creativity among his team and implementing innovative solutions, such as RFID tags for pavement cuts, and his management during multiple crises. Joseph also noted the significant improvements in road quality and how complaints had shifted from basic road conditions to smaller issues, a testament to Stovall's work. He asked for advice from Stovall, who emphasized the importance of continued creativity, accountability, and commitment to public service. Stovall encouraged his team to maintain the high standards they had set. Mayor Mims reflected on working with Mr. Stovall since 2014, recognizing his contributions to the city's customer service program and efforts to improve employee recognition. He compared Mr. Stovall's consistent dedication to that of a "rockstar" who quietly performs important tasks without seeking recognition. The Mayor also acknowledged Mr. Stovall's role in developing the plan for Issue 9, which improved road maintenance. In closing, he mentioned Mr. Stovall's golf lessons, joking about their progress and wishing him continued success. He expressed deep appreciation for Mr. Stovall's work and commitment to the city. COMMENTS BY THE CITY COMMISSION Commissioner Turner-Sloss Commissioner Turner-Sloss highlighted two upcoming events: 1. A tenant rights session on Thursday, February 27th, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Dayton Metro Library's Trotwood branch, where renters can get vital information about their rights and responsibilities. 2. The Victoria Theater's Women's History Month celebration, starting March Ist at 7:30 p.m., with a contemporary dance performance. She also thanked Mr. Gondol and his team for their work on housing inspections and presentations, looking forward to increased demolition updates. She congratulated Mr. Fred Stovall for his leadership and wished him the best in his retirement. Commissioner Shaw Commissioner Shaw shared a few updates, including that swim lessons are back and being offered by the Dayton Rec Department for $25 per session. These lessons cater to both beginners and those looking to improve their skills. Lifeguard training is also available to help fill positions and keep pools open over the summer. Additionally, the Metro Parks ice rink will close for the season, with the last day of open skate and soul night on Friday. 2076 CITY COMMISSION _ REcuLaR MEETING FEBRUARY 26 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 He also shared excitement about being selected as a judge for the Boys and Girls Club of Dayton’s "Youth of the Year" award, where winners will move on to state and possibly national competitions. Commissioner Joseph Commissioner Joseph shared two announcements. First, he highlighted that from March 2nd to 6th, it's Read Across America Week, with Read Across America Day on March 2nd, Dr. Seuss's birthday. He encouraged everyone to support literacy, whether at schools, home, or elsewhere, and mentioned he would be reading at two elementary schools. He noted how much he enjoys reading to kids and emphasized the importance of literacy. Secondly, he announced that the Dayton Fire Department is hiring lateral firefighters and paramedics. He encouraged those in the field to apply by March 16th at joindaytonfire.com. Mayor Mims Mayor Mims shared two things: First, he mentioned that he got a head start on reading to young people last week and was working on reading to more kids. He emphasized how enjoyable it is. Then, he took a moment to wish his wife a happy birthday. The Mayor concluded with a message of love and peace, stating, "Love and peace for all, hatred for none.” ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:33 a.m. avo: Ragin) Rlosbaboo Cleo of Commission