City Commission

2131 CITY COMMISSION = REGULAR MEETING APRIL 3@ 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 CITY COMMISSION MEETING On Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 5:59 p.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 Turner-Sloss led the invocation. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mayor Mims led the public in the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL Roll call was taken, and Mayor Mims and Commissioners Shaw, Fairchild, and Turner- Sloss were present. The Clerk of the Commission, Ms. Regina Blackshear, and Deputy City Manager, LaShea Lofton were also present. Commissioner Shaw made the motion to excuse Commissioner Joseph for this Commission Meeting. Commissioner Fairchild seconded this motion. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Shaw made a motion to approve the minutes from the April 23, 2025, meeting. Commissioner Fairchild seconded the motion. The previous meeting minutes were unanimously approved. COMMUNICATIONS AND PETITIONS There were none. PRESENTATION AND SPECIAL AWARDS Monthly Demolition Update Mr. Steve Gondol, Director of Planning, Neighborhoods, and Development, provided the March 2025 demolition update for the Dayton Recovery Plan. He reported another strong month, with 28 demolitions completed—seven funded by ARPA, three by the general fund, and 18 through ODOD. This brings the total for the year to 62 demolitions, representing 30% of the 2024 target while only being 25% into the 2025 calendar year, indicating strong progress. He explained a significant strategic shift in response to a recent update from the state, which notified the Montgomery County Land Bank that round two ODOD demolition funds—allocated for 150 properties, with 104 in Dayton— must be spent by June 2025. Since ARPA funds have a longer runway until December 2025, the city is pausing ARPA demolitions and fire pile removals to prioritize the ODOD properties and avoid losing funding. Mr. Gondol noted this month marks the beginning of that strategic shift. In March, nine piles were removed, and only two new ones were added—one house and one garage—bringing the current pile total to 75. This low addition count is a good sign, giving the team an opportunity to make real progress. Emergency demolitions included one on Wayne Avenue and another in the Historic Inner East, again keeping new additions low for a second consecutive month. The demolitions are geographically diverse, with activity in ARPA-eligible areas as well as non-ARPA zones like Residence Park and Reddish Village, thanks to the flexibility of ODOD funding. These areas 2132 CITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING apri.L 30 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 weren’t originally prioritized in the Dayton Recovery Plan but were added when the city saw an opportunity to address them sooner due to available funding. Nine new structural nuisance properties were added to the list in March—three or four fire-related—bringing the 2025 total to 26. The demolition pipeline remains robust, with 103 new properties undergoing title work, 28 beginning asbestos surveys, and 30 completing remediation. In total for 2025, 197 properties have had title work completed, 147 have been surveyed, and 46 have been abated and are ready for demolition. The city also reduced the time between survey, remediation, and inspection by three weeks for ODOD-funded demolitions to meet the state’s June deadline. Mr. Gondol highlighted before-and-after photos of properties at 608 Grafton and 4064 Larkspur, which showed significant improvement after demolition. Notably, the Grafton property was in a historic district, and the city worked with the Landmarks Commission to secure removal approval. In Twin Towers, the city partnered with East End to remove several additional problem properties that had emerged since the initial Dayton Recovery Plan work, enabling the community’s new infill housing plans. Finally, Mr. Gondol shared that the Nordale Park shelter had been demolished after repeated arson incidents and structural issues. Though it once featured a well-known mural, its poor condition and safety concerns made removal necessary in collaboration with Public Works and community input. Commissioner Turner-Sloss thanked Mr. Gondol and his team for the recent cleanup and improvements at Broadway and Negley, noting the positive changes in visibility and safety. She asked for updates on several key properties. Mr. Gondol shared that 300 Fernwood is on the ARPA fire pile contract but may face delays due to state priorities. He acknowledged the urgency given ongoing complaints and the presence of children nearby. Regarding 203 Grove, he said the city is coordinating with the family and insurance company following a fire-related death and will provide updates through the City Manager’s Office. Commissioner Turner-Sloss also raised concerns about the Cornell Meat Market site. Mr. Gondol noted there is an upcoming trial and encouraged resident participation, including impact statements. She suggested the city use its engagement teams to help spread the word and asked if fencing or barriers could be placed at the site and billed to the owner. Mr. Gondol said he would follow up with the City Manager’s Office on that point. She also asked about a large overgrown tree at the corner of Negley and Ferguson that poses a safety issue. Mr. Gondol agreed to check with his team. Lastly, she requested clarification on funding sources for the 46 structures in the demolition pipeline, asking for a breakdown by CDBG, ODOD, ARPA, and DRP funding. Mr. Gondol said he would provide that information. Commissioner Turner-Sloss requested an electronic copy of the presentation, which Mr. Gondol agreed to send through the Commission Office. Commissioner Fairchild thanked Mr. Gondol for the presentation and emphasized its value in showing residents the city’s efforts to address blight. He asked if the city could help push for more time to meet the tight demolition deadline of 86 properties in two months. Mr. Gondol said the city and vendors are working hard and are committed to the goal but acknowledged the timeline is unusually short and may impact other projects. He welcomed support if an opportunity arises to request an extension from the state. Commissioner Fairchild then asked about plans for Nordale Park, suggesting the community be engaged in reimagining the space, like the shelter at Liberation Park. He  2133 CITY COMMISSION recutar MEETING apriL 30 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 also inquired about the status of the proposed spray park. Mr. Gondol said he would follow up with Public Works for updates. Commissioner Shaw thanked staff for their work, especially on the Negley site, calling it remarkable. He emphasized the importance of continuing to share these updates with the public, as many residents aren’t aware of the city’s efforts. Mayor Mims echoed his colleagues' comments and acknowledged concerns about staff capacity. He highlighted the job creation tied to demolitions about five jobs per house, and stressed the need to keep pushing for additional state and federal support. ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO THE CALENDAR Ms. Blackshear requested the addition of legislation related to the public hearing, pending the commission’s direction. DISCUSSION OF CALENDAR ITEMS Ms. LaShea Lofton highlighted several important items. First, Item A2, which involves an amendment to the contract with BladeCutters Lawn Service. This amendment reflects an additional $1.95 million in funding to support emergency demolition work across multiple sites, including 34 N. Main, a priority due to its downtown location and associated public health risks. The total contract is now $2.93 million and will extend through June 2026. BladeCutters, a certified local Dayton business, was selected through a competitive RFQ process. Next, Ms. Lofton introduced Item A3, a project in partnership with Wright Dunbar Inc. and Friends of Medal of Honor Park to develop a new Veterans Memorial Park at Edwin C. Moses Blvd and W. Third St. This initiative, supported by $196,000 in CDBG funds and $34,000 in general funds, will receive a total public investment of $500,000. It aims to preserve history and strengthen cultural ties between downtown and the Wright Dunbar neighborhood, with construction expected to be completed by April 2026. Finally, Ms. Lofton discussed Resolution 6862-25, through which the City of Dayton received a $2.98 million permanent supportive housing grant from the 2024 HUD Continuum of Care program. This funding will assist approximately 260 formerly homeless individuals from June 2025 to May 2026. The early approval of this grant allows for proactive contracting with Miami Valley Housing Opportunities, ensuring a seamless transition into the new grant cycle and continued support for vulnerable residents. CITIZENS’ COMMENTS ON CALENDAR ITEMS There were two citizens registered to speak. 1. Ms. Karla Garrett-Harshaw, 40 N Main St- spoke about the Medal of Honor Memorial and Honor Park project, thanking the commission for its support. She highlighted the $500,000 grant received, which has helped move the project forward. She also shared that they have successfully raised $1.3 million out of their $1.5 million fundraising goal and now have a contractor in place to begin construction. The park will recognize 40 Medal of Honor recipients from the area and honor the more than 110,000 veterans in the community. She expressed gratitude for the commission’s support in upgrading this important corner of the city. 2134 CITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING APRIL 30 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 2. Mr. Merle Wilberding, 1013 Rubicon Rd- spoke about the Medal of Honor Project, sharing his personal connection as a Vietnam War veteran and his special appreciation for the veterans being honored. He mentioned his work on the project with Karla over the years and expressed excitement about enhancing the park, which is located near the airplane display. He also shared that his law firm, Coolage Wall Dayton Law Firm, contributed all their services to the project because they believe in investing in the city of Dayton. He thanked the city for its support and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the grant process. 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. Comptech Computer Technologies, Inc. (temporary staffing services as needed through 12/31/25) $43,462.50 1. (cont’d): A2. Kiesler Police Supply (ammunition) $55,247.64 A3. Tim Lally Chevrole t, t Inc. (three 2024 Chevrole Silverado Police Pursuit Vehicles) $146,718.75 A4. White Allen Chevrolet (four used vehicles) $120,000.00 PUBLIC WORKS B1. ARX Perimeters LLC (fencing and barricade rental) $64,500.00 Departments of Police and Public Works: TOTAL: $29,928.89 Service Agreements 2. Bladecutter’s Lawn Service, Inc. — Contract Modification — for ongoing emergency demolition and debris removal services — Department of Planning, Neighborhoods and Development/Housing & Inspections. $1,950,000.00 3. Wright Dunbar Inc. — Grant Agreement — Subrecipient Agreement — for construction of a memorial park for veterans who have received the highest and the most prestigious military award, “Medal of Honor” for valor in combat — Department of Planning, Neighborhoods and Development/Development. $500.000.00 (Thru 12/31/25)  2135 CITY COMMISSION _ REGULAR MEETING apriIL 30 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 COMMISSIONER COMMENTS ON CALENDAR ITEMS Commissioner Turner-Sloss echoed Ms. Lofton’s comments, noting Dayton received one of the highest Continuum of Care grants and thanked staff for their commitment. Commissioner Shaw expressed appreciation for the Medal of Honor Park project, emphasizing that the city's investment effectively leverages community support and commended staff for their work. 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 4-0 vote. Voting in the affirmative were Mayor Mims, and Commissioners Shaw, Fairchild, and Turner-Sloss. LEGISLATION EMERGENCY RESOLUTION — FIRST AND SECOND READING No. 6862-25 - Authorizing the City Manager to Accept a Continuum of Care Grant Award From the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD") For a Total Amount of Two Million Nine Hundred Eighty-Five Thousand Four Hundred Forty Dollars and Zero Cents (52,985,440.00) on Behalf of the City of Dayton; and Declaring an Emergency The question being shall Emergency Resolution No. 6862-25 be adopted. Commissioner Fairchild made the motion for the immediate passage of Emergency Resolution No. 6862- 25. Commissioner Shaw seconded this motion. A roll call vote was taken resulting in a 4-0 vote. Voting in the affirmative were Mayor Mims, Commissioners Shaw, Fairchild, and Turner-Sloss. The Resolution was adopted. RESOLUTION — FIRST READING No. 6863-25 - Approving the Submission of a Grant Application and Authorizing the Acceptance of a Grant Award from the Montgomery County Solid Waste District in the Amount of Fifteen Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty Dollars and Ninety-Four Cents ($15,720.94) on behalf of the City of Dayton, and Declaring an Emergency. ORDINANCE — SECOND READING No. 32143-25 - Authorizing the Rehiring of Major Brian Johns to the Unclassified Position of Major in the Dayton Police Department. A roll call vote was taken resulting in a 4-0 vote. Voting in the affirmative were Mayor Mims, Commissioners Shaw, Fairchild, and Turner-Sloss. The Ordinance was adopted. PUBLIC HEARING Ms. Holly Hornbeak, Historic Preservation Planner in the Department of Planning, Neighborhoods, and Development gave a detailed presentation to the commission regarding a proposed zoning map amendment concerning the Sunwatch Indian Village Archaeological Park. She explained that the amendment would rezone approximately 21 acres of land across three parcels that currently hold the Sunwatch Indian Village, the 2136 CITY COMMISSION _ REGULAR MEETING aprRIL 30 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 education and interpretive center, and the associated parking lot. These parcels are presently zoned as General Industrial, a designation that dates to the 1970s and no longer aligns with the site’s cultural and educational use. The proposal recommends changing the zoning to Open Space to better reflect its purpose as protected parkland and a significant historic and archaeological resource. Ms. Hornbeak provided an overview of the site's cultural and historical significance, noting that the area was first settled approximately 800 years ago by the Fort Ancient people. These Native Americans constructed a village at the site and lived there for about 30 years. In the 1960s, amateur excavations began uncovering artifacts, but it was during the 1970s—when a sewage treatment plant was proposed for the site—that formal archaeological investigations were initiated. The findings were significant enough to halt development, and in 1975 the site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Later, in 1982, the City of Dayton leased the land to the Dayton Museum of Natural History, which constructed an educational center in 1985. In 1990, the site received further recognition as a National Historic Landmark. Photos shown during the presentation highlighted key features of the Sunwatch site, including reconstructed dwellings like the solstice house and “big house,” as well as culturally significant post formations aligned with solar and celestial movements. Ms. Hornbeak emphasized the educational value of the site, noting that the interpretive center houses artifacts and recreations that reflect what the original village might have looked like. She also shared that the surrounding land, including the parking lot area, is actively used by Sunwatch staff for prairie grass cultivation, educational programming, and scout camping experiences. Ms. Hornbeak stated that this zoning amendment is just the first step. Future plans include consolidating and reconfiguring the parcels, engaging with the Sunwatch and Boonshoft Museum leadership about long-term site goals, and creating a new zoning code text amendment to establish a historic designation overlay specific to cultural and archaeological sites—something not currently addressed in Dayton’s zoning regulations, which mainly focus on residential and architectural preservation. She added that Native American groups have been consulted throughout the process and are supportive of the city’s efforts to increase protection of the site. Ms. Hornbeak concluded by stating that the proposed zoning change aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan and broader goals to safeguard cultural and historical resources. She affirmed that staff fully supports the amendment and recommends approval of the zoning change from General Industrial to Open Space for all three parcels. Commissioner Turner-Sloss thanked Holly Hornbeak and asked about the lease for the Sunwatch site. Holly said the city has leased it since the 1980s, likely renewing every 10 years, with the most recent renewal within the last five years. Commissioner Fairchild shared that he and his daughter enjoy visiting the Sunwatch site, called it an asset, and expressed support for the steps being taken to protect it. Commissioners decided to move forward with the Public Hearing. Case Number PLN2025-000029 Will Be Ordinance No. 32144-25 And Receives A First Reading Only.  2137 CITY COMMISSION _ REcuLaR MEETING aprit. 30 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 The Ordinance Amends The Official Zoning Map To Change The Zoning Of Approximately 21.21 Acres At The End Of West River Road From General Industrial (I-2) To Open Space (OS). CITIZENS’ COMMENTS There were four citizens registered to speak. 1. Mr. Darrelle Lee, 1903 E Third St- spoke about his frustration with Dayton and Ohio's legal system, specifically about not charging someone with attempted murder after he was shot twelve times. He felt that the city doesn't provide enough support for victims and criticized the legal system for prioritizing convictions over justice. He also mentioned a lack of laws protecting fathers' rights. 2. Mr. Jason Balweg, 1410 Creighton Ave- spoke about his frustration with the Belmont High School marching band’s loud practices near his home. He’s been trying to get help since 2015 but feels ignored by the school, police, and authorities. He’s seeking a solution that reduces the noise without stopping the band’s practices. 3. Mr. Keith Lander, 429 S Kilmer St- spoke about a proposal to stop Dayton Public School students from using the RTA downtown hub. He argued that while the district should handle transportation, they lack the resources to provide buses. He suggested that the state should allocate funds to help the district provide the necessary transportation. 4. Ms. Maggie Burk, 1200 Epworth Ave- spoke about supporting youth by including them in decision-making and pushing back against harmful narratives. She called for investment in existing youth initiatives and encouraged meeting young people in their own spaces to strengthen communication and trust. COMMENTS BY THE CITY COMMISSION Commissioner Turner-Sloss Commissioner Turner-Sloss thanked the 34 neighborhoods and city staff who participated in the Living City cleanup. She highlighted two upcoming events: a utility box art contest in Wright-Dunbar (deadline May 1) and Family Wellness Day on May 3. She acknowledged public comments from several speakers, promised follow-up conversations, and emphasized ongoing efforts to address citywide violence and community concerns. Commissioner Fairchild Commissioner Fairchild thanked volunteers and staff for making the Living City cleanup a success, gave special thanks to Fred Sneed, and expressed hope for less trash in future years. He also gave a shoutout to the White House venue and its caterer for a recent event. Commissioner Shaw Commissioner Shaw announced the Montgomery County Youth Job Fair on May Ist at Day Air Ballpark and promoted free summer STEM camps at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. He praised the city cleanup effort and joked about returning his trash picker tool. 2138 CITY COMMISSION _ REGULAR MEETING apriIL 30 2025 COD REPRO 333-4043 Mayor Mims The Mayor invited residents to attend the annual police memorial on Friday at 11 a.m. at RiverScape, announced that RTA will offer free rides to the polls on May 6, and shared that the Miami Valley CTC Aspire program will be at the Dayton Metro Library on May 5 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to assist those pursuing their GED. He also reminded the public about the upcoming youth job fair for ages 17 to 24. The Mayor concluded with a message of love and unity, stating, "love, peace for all, and hatred for none." ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:05 p.m. wee Veale. WY Rocllaoat Clerk (Commission