City Commission

December 19, 2025 TO: Mayor/Commissioners FROM: Dylan Rainey and Luke Pleiman Legislative Aides SUBJECT: Draft Minutes of the December 17, 2025, Dayton City Commission Meeting CITY COMMISSION MEETING On Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 6:02 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 Joseph 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 Joseph, Shaw, and Fairchild, were present. The Clerk of Commission, Ms. Regina Blackshear, Office Manager, Ms. Jai’Shawn McClendon, and Deputy City Manager, Mr. Joe Parlette, were also present. Commissioner Shaw made a motion to approve Commissioner Turner-Sloss’ absence from the meeting. Commissioner Fairchild seconded the motion. COMMUNICATIONS AND PETITIONS There were none. PRESENTATION AND SPECIAL AWARDS There were none. ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS TO THE CALENDAR Ms. McClendon requested the addition of legislation pertaining to the public hearing at the desire of the Commission. CITY MANAGER’S COMMENTS ON CALENDAR ITEMS Mr. Parlette provided brief comments. He noted that most agenda items involve departmental agreements to prepare for 2026. He highlighted Items 10 and 13, which support the construction of 27 affordable housing units in the Wolf Creek neighborhood and Phase Three of the passenger boarding bridge replacement project. CITIZENS’ COMMENTS ON CALENDAR ITEMS There were no citizens registered to speak. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS ON CALENDAR ITEMS Commissioner Joseph expressed support for the Wolf Creek affordable housing project, emphasizing the difficulty of building affordable housing and its importance in addressing housing and homelessness challenges. Mayor Mims noted ongoing daily challenges related to housing affordability. It was stated that homelessness continues to rise nationwide, with housing costs increasing approximately 700% over the past 50 years while income growth has increased only about 14%, significantly contributing to homelessness locally and across the nation. 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 unanimously approved. LEGISLATION Emergency Ordinance – Second Reading No. 32172-25- Amending the City’s Appropriations for the Year 2025 and Declaring an Emergency. A roll call vote was taken, resulting in a 4-0 vote. Voting in the affirmative were Mayor Mims, Commissioners Joseph, Shaw, Fairchild. The Emergency Ordinance was adopted. Ordinance – First Reading No. 32173-25 – Repealing, Amending, and Enacting Various Sections of the Revised Code of General Ordinances Related to Chapter 151: Subdivision Regulations. Resolution – First Reading No. 6909-25 – Establing the Fiscal Year 2026 Rates, Fees and Changes for the James M. Cox International Airport and the Dayton Wright Brothers Airport. BOARD APPOINTMENTS Commissioner Joseph moved to reappoint Porothea Dennis, Margaret Murray, Jim Walker, and Gloria White to the North Central Priority Land Use Board for a term ending December 31, 2027. Commissioner Fairchild seconded the motion. The Commission approved the reappointments. Commissioner Fairchild moved to reappoint Youssef Elzein, Matthew Kelly, Joel Michael, Jerri Standard, Deborah Thomas, and Courtney Whitworth to the Northeast Priority Land Use Board for a term ending December 31, 2027. Commissioner Shaw seconded the motion. The Commission approved the reappointments. Commissioner Shaw moved to appoint Casey Wade to the Northeast Priority Land Use Board for a term ending December 31, 2027. Commissioner Fairchild seconded the motion. The Commission approved the appointment. Commissioner Joseph moved to reappoint Ben Abernathy, Kelly Brown, Patrick Cauley, Leah Konicki, Shelly Moran, and Matthew Wolf to the Southeast Priority Land Use Board for a term ending December 31, 2027. Commissioner Shaw seconded the motion. The Commission approved the reappointments. Commissioner Fairchild moved to appoint Columbus Cotton to the West Priority Land Use Board for a term ending December 31, 2027. Commissioner Joseph seconded the motion. The Commission approved the appointment. Commissioner Shaw moved to reappoint Edith Jackson, Kenneth Marcellus, Annetta Richardson, and Shirley Williams to the West Priority Land Use Board for a term ending December 31, 2027. Commissioner Fairchild seconded the motion. The Commission approved the reappointments. Commissioner Joseph moved to reappoint Mark Manovich, Stephen Seboldt, and James Wahl to the Greater Downtown Priority Land Use Board for a term ending December 31, 2027. Commissioner Shaw seconded the motion. The Commission approved the reappointments. Commissioner Shaw moved to appoint Amanda Delotelle and Christina Mendez to the Welcome Dayton Committee for a term ending December 31, 2028. Commissioner Joseph seconded the motion. The Commission approved the appointments. PUBLIC HEARING Ms. Jen Hanauer, Planner, presented a proposal for an automated car wash at 1158 Wilmington Avenue, previously reviewed by the Commission in August as one of two Flying Ace car wash applications. The Wilmington Avenue proposal was remanded to the Plan Board due to neighborhood concerns regarding noise, traffic, and compatibility with nearby residential uses. Despite revisions to the site plan intended to redirect noise toward Patterson Road and away from residences, opposition from residents and the Plan Board remained, and the Plan Board again recommended denial. The site is zoned Eclectic Neighborhood Commercial (ENC) and is adjacent to single-family residential uses. The proposal would adaptively reuse a former Rite Aid building for a car wash, a use not typically permitted in ENC zoning, requiring approval of a new plan development and final plan. Staff outlined proposed conditions to mitigate impacts, including limited site coverage, parking requirements, monument signage, added landscaping, a masonry wall for noise mitigation, and pedestrian connections. Public comments continued to focus on concerns about noise, traffic, pedestrian safety, and proximity to residential and assisted living facilities. Some community organizations expressed support, citing benefits such as reactivating a vacant building and property maintenance. Staff noted that traffic studies indicate existing congestion and potential future roadway improvements may be needed. Staff reviewed the project’s public process history, including recommendations for denial from the Plan Board in June and October, and shared observations from similar developments in other cities, noting mixed impacts. The Commission was advised of its options: proceed with first reading approval (requiring four votes), decline to proceed (resulting in denial), or remand the proposal again to the Plan Board. CITIZENS’ COMMENTS ON PUBLIC HEARING There were three citizens registered to speak. 1. Eileen Comerford, 952 Croyden Drive – spoke against amending the zoning map amendment to allow the car wash, citing a desire to prioritize people over vehicles. 2. Steve Dilhoff, 714 Greenmount Blvd – spoke in favor of the zoning map amendment, citing the need to fill vacant properties in the neighborhood. 3. Richard Stevens, 925 Colwick Drive – spoke against amending the zoning map, citing traffic issues at other car washes. 4. Raymond Leibold, 913 Colwick Drive – spoke against amending the zoning map, citing traffic issues, noise, and disruption of the view to Wilmington Avenue. COMMENTS BY THE APPLICANT Mr. Gerald McCoy addressed the Commission, noting that the project has been reviewed numerous times through prior hearings and boards. Since the last commission meeting, Mr. McCoy completed significant additional engineering and fully addressed the commission’s concerns. Changes include reconfiguring the drive so vehicles no longer exit to the west, modifying circulation to prevent cars from waiting on Colwick Drive to turn onto Wilmington, removing pylon signs, eliminating the curb cut on Patterson to improve walkability, and adding trees and enhanced landscaping. The project represents a $4 million investment and is expected to employ 11–15 people with an anticipated payroll of $300,000–$400,000. Mr. McCoy emphasized a long-term commitment to the site, describing the operator as a responsible corporate citizen that will maintain the property and replace the existing conditions with a well- landscaped, attractive building. A traffic study submitted and accepted by the city shows minimal impact, estimating approximately 500 vehicles entering and exiting daily, not just during peak periods. Noise studies indicate that ambient noise near residences averages about 70 dB, with most noise-generating equipment relocated away from homes; the remaining hand vacuums are located about 200 feet from residences and operate below ambient noise levels. The speaker concluded that concerns about traffic, noise, and heavy use are not supported by the record, while the economic investment and site improvements are well substantiated, and requested the commission’s consideration, noting that the company’s vice president was present to provide additional comments and answer questions. Mr. Joe Bertucci, Vice President of Development, stated that the company carefully considered the commission’s prior comments and believes the revisions have significantly improved the site for both the city and nearby residents. He explained that market conditions and customer behavior have shifted toward drive-through and vehicle-oriented services, which aligns with the high traffic volumes at the Wilmington and Patterson intersection. He noted that the area already includes multiple commercial and drive-through uses and emphasized that the car wash does not generate new traffic but serves vehicles already traveling through the corridor, potentially benefiting nearby businesses through increased customer activity. He highlighted the company’s commitment to the community, including local hiring, career advancement opportunities, continued expansion in the Dayton area, and long-term investment supported by a large, stable operation with more than 130 locations nationwide. The company also partners with and donates to local nonprofits, particularly those supporting children and underserved populations. Regarding site operations, Mr. Bertucci emphasized that the project includes exceptional on-site vehicle stacking capacity, accommodating more than 50 vehicles without spilling onto public streets, which he described as among the largest in the company’s portfolio. Exits have been reoriented to the south, with the building and added landscaping serving as buffers to minimize noise and visual impacts on nearby residences. He stated that professional traffic and noise studies support the conclusion that impacts will be minimal and comparable to existing ambient conditions, especially given roadway traffic and existing commercial activity. He also noted that the property has remained vacant for several years with delinquent taxes, and argued that a profitable, well-managed business is needed to reinvest in the site, pay taxes, and contribute positively to the city. He concluded by reiterating the company’s operational efficiency, commitment to safety, screening, and landscaping, and expressed hope that the commission would view the project as a valuable long-term addition to Dayton, welcoming questions from the commission. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS ON PUBLIC HEARING Commissioner Fairchild Following the applicant’s presentation, Commissioner Fairchild asked questions regarding the location of outdoor vacuums and overall site operations. Mr. Bertucci explained that most vacuums would be located inside the building, with outdoor units primarily along Wilmington Avenue and a small number along Patterson in an L-shaped configuration. Areas south of the building will be converted from asphalt to landscaped green space, significantly improving the site’s appearance. He described the project as a major visual upgrade and a well-maintained feature at a key intersection. Questions were raised about peak-hour traffic and capacity. Mr. Bertucci stated that peak activity occurs between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m., with approximately 80–100 vehicles per hour, and lower volumes at other times. The conveyor system can handle approximately 140 vehicles per hour (conservatively analyzed at 130), and on-site stacking can accommodate more than 50 vehicles without spillover onto public streets, ensuring all queuing remains on site. Commissioner Fairchild also questioned the rationale for overturning the Planning Board’s unanimous denial. Mr. Tony Kroeger, Division Manager of Planning, explained that the commission has discretion to weigh Planning Board standards, including land-use compatibility, corridor plans, community impact, and overall benefit. Ms. Hanauer noted that while this site is like another approved car wash, differences in site conditions and neighborhood input led to a different recommendation, highlighting the site-specific nature of such decisions. Discussion also addressed zoning expectations and predictability for residents and property owners. Ms. Hanauer explained that the planned development process allows for limited exceptions while applying strict, site-specific standards to mitigate impacts. Finally, Commissioner Fairchild asked about broader redevelopment of nearby vacant properties. Mr. Bertucci stated the project could serve as a catalyst for corridor revitalization and expressed willingness to partner with nearby businesses and support local economic activity. Mr. Kroeger added that while some vacancies remain, the area includes active and recently developed businesses, and the City will continue supporting redevelopment efforts. Commissioner Fairchild acknowledged the challenge of balancing competing interests and expressed sympathy for nearby residents. He noted the project differs from older car wash models and emphasized that the key issue is whether traffic and noise impacts are effectively addressed. If impacts are controlled, he stated the project presents an opportunity to activate a long-vacant property in alignment with Commission priorities. Regarding timing, Mr. Bertucci outlined a projected timeline of 3–4 months for civil compliance and site approvals, an additional 4–5 months for sanitary and water approvals, and 5–6 months for construction. The facility could be operational by late 2026, with a full opening targeted for spring 2027. Commissioner Shaw Commissioner Shaw stated that the decision was difficult and noted personal familiarity with the applicant’s car wash operations throughout the city, observing that even during peak demand periods, he has not seen their facilities back up onto public streets. He expressed concern about avoiding continued deterioration of the former Rite Aid site and asked staff whether the surrounding neighborhoods represent an area of growth and opportunity or decline. Mr. Kroeger responded that the Belmont, Patterson Park, and Shroyer Park neighborhoods are stable, quality neighborhoods capable of supporting a variety of business uses and noted that drugstore sites across the city have successfully been repurposed. Commissioner Shaw indicated satisfaction with the applicant’s sound mitigation efforts and acknowledged the changes made in response to prior feedback. He also asked about the proximity of other company locations, and the Mr. Bertucci noted that the nearest facilities are in Moraine and near the Riverside Airway Shopping Center, both at a significant distance from the site. Further discussion clarified the intent of the Eclectic Neighborhood Commercial (ENC) zoning, which is not defined by the size of buildings but by land use and operational characteristics. Mr. Kroeger explained that ENC zoning is generally intended to support neighborhood-oriented retail, service, or restaurant uses and typically discourages fully automobile-dependent businesses. Commissioner Shaw asked about employee salaries and Mr. Bertucci explained that base pay for team members is around $35,000, with incentives tied to site, market, and company performance. Assistant managers earn $45,000–$50,000, and site managers $55,000–$65,000, with potential for higher earnings through performance and membership sales. Regarding noise concerns, Mr. Bertucci noted that the primary noise-producing equipment (“the producer”) has been relocated to the furthest point from nearby residences. Additionally, they committed to enclosing the equipment in a masonry structure to further reduce sound, even though engineering studies indicate that noise levels at 200 feet are already within acceptable limits. Commissioner Joseph Commissioner Joseph followed up with planning staff to ask whether the area is envisioned to continue growing as an automobile-oriented business district or whether it should remain a more walkable, neighborhood-focused commercial area consistent with the Eclectic Neighborhood Commercial (ENC) zoning designation. Mr. Kroeger explained that when the ENC district was established in 2006, it was intended to support neighborhood-serving commercial uses and not primarily auto-oriented development, while also recognizing that the area is not equivalent to districts such as the Oregon or Belmont business districts. In response to questions about whether increased traffic and changes over the past 20 years might justify a different zoning designation if the code were rewritten today, Mr. Kroeger stated that, in his opinion, ENC would still be the appropriate zoning classification for the area. Commissioner Joseph stated that he had been asked to convey support for the project from Kathy Emmers, President of the Banis–Hearthstone Community Council, and noted that the Belmont East–Hearthstone Community Council voted overwhelmingly to endorse the development. He observed that, unlike most cases, resident opinion is divided, with those living closest to the site largely opposed and others in the broader neighborhood generally supportive. Speaking as a Belmont resident who regularly travels the intersection, Commissioner Joseph said he is less concerned about traffic and noise impacts, given the existing conditions and the applicant’s reconfiguration, which directs noise toward the intersection. He noted that the traffic study identified the need for a left-turn lane, which he believes is already warranted. He stated that the proposed changes would remove a long-standing eyesore, citing ongoing graffiti, trash, overgrown vegetation, and general neglect at the vacant site, and warned that continued vacancy often leads to higher long-term costs for the city and neighborhood. Commissioner Joseph emphasized the challenge of balancing the potential for a future ENC- consistent use against the risk of prolonged abandonment. He questioned the likelihood that a different, more neighborhood-oriented use would materialize in the medium term and noted that vacant properties harm surrounding businesses and residents. He pointed to positive trends in the neighborhood, including rising housing values, new and successful businesses, and the presence of a grocery store, arguing that continued disinvestment at the site undermines that progress. Commissioner Joseph reflected on past city decisions where initially controversial developments ultimately proved beneficial, citing examples such as the nearby Waffle House, Liberty High School, the former Chaminade site, and the Wayne and Wilmington reconstruction. He concluded by framing the decision as one of trust in the neighborhood’s recovery and economic momentum, weighing whether a well-managed project that improves site conditions is preferable to continued vacancy with the hope that a more ENC-consistent business comes along. He noted that he would decide to vote against the amendment with the hope that a smaller, more appropriate business buys the property soon. Mayor Mims Mayor Mims responded by reflecting on past decision-making experiences, noting that city leaders must often make difficult choices based on limited information, with outcomes that are not always certain. He referenced the Chaminade Julienne site decision, acknowledging that both the city and state declined the proposal at the time, and that, in hindsight, the neighborhood suffered as a result. He emphasized that such decisions involve risk and judgment, and that sometimes the city must “roll the dice” in hopes of achieving long-term positive outcomes. Mayor Mims highlighted broader examples where initially controversial investments ultimately benefited the city, including the Arcade redevelopment and other major projects that were not universally supported at the time but later proved transformative. He noted that citywide progress, such as rising median income over the past decade, is often the result of taking calculated risks on development decisions. Mayor Mims asked about any additional measures to increase comfort for residents regarding the proposed car wash. Mr. Bertucci emphasized several ways to address walkability and neighborhood integration, including decorative walls on the north side of the property to reduce noise, extending sidewalks, adding bike racks, and creating covered seating areas for pedestrians. He highlighted that these measures have been successfully implemented at other sites and stressed their commitment to being part of the community, engaging with residents, and supporting connectivity beyond their property. Mayor Mims asked if there were additional actions the Commission could take and Mr. Kroeger clarified that sending the project back for further consideration would require a full remand, restarting the plan board process, and reminded the commissioners that four votes would ultimately be needed to overturn the plan board recommendation. Additionally, Mr. Parlette noted that city departments such as police, fire, and street maintenance use Flying Ace car washes, suggesting that an additional location would be beneficial for municipal needs. Commissioner Shaw made the motion to move forward on the legislation to amend the zoning designation at 1158 Wilmington Avenue. Commissioner Fairchild seconded the motion. Voting in the affirmative were Mayor Mims, Commissioners, Shaw, Fairchild. Voting against was Commissioner Joseph. The motion to move forward passed. CITIZENS’ COMMENTS There were four citizens registered to speak 1. Kevin Keller, 3922 East 3rd Street – spoke in favor of the car wash, plowing side streets, and Mayor’s walks and called for accountability for speeding on 3rd street. 2. Valerie Duncan, 523 S Hayden Ave – spoke about 120 W Apple Street women’s shelter code violations and asked the City to take action on issuing an occupancy permit. 3. Paul Kerregan, 1525 Pershing Blvd – spoke about his request for an update on data collection regarding speeding on Pershing Blvd and spoke against the car wash. 4. Kathleeen Galt, 5066 Safeway Drive – spoke about how she is thankful for the various people and groups for their efforts in passing the hospital levy. COMMENTS BY THE CITY MANAGER Mr. Parlette provided two closing comments. First, regarding concerns about traffic on Pershing Boulevard, he explained that the Dayton Police Department and traffic engineering collaborate to collect and analyze data when complaints arise. They use traffic percentiles and speed measurements to determine appropriate remediation options, which are then communicated to the city and residents, with actions taken as needed. Second, he addressed waste collection during federal holidays, noting that upcoming holiday disruptions will result in Thursday routes being collected on Friday, and that there will be no bulk waste pickup next Friday. He confirmed that the city will communicate these changes to residents via social media. COMMENTS BY THE CLERK OF COMMISSION Ms. McClendon announced that due to the Christmas Eve holiday, the meeting for December 24th is cancelled and the meeting for December 31st will be moved to 8:30 a.m. COMMENTS BY THE CITY COMMISSION Commissioner Fairchild Commissioner Fairchild offered closing comments thanking colleagues and citizens for participating in the meeting, highlighting it as a positive example of deliberative democracy. He encouraged continued community engagement and noted the upcoming holiday opportunities downtown, including Dayton History’s Caroline Christmas event from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. now through Christmas Eve and performances of the Nutcracker at the Schuster Center. He also extended well wishes for Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa, emphasizing the symbolic importance of light as a source of hope during the darker days of the year. Commissioner Shaw Commissioner Shaw shared a community announcement about a “sip and shop” event at Dayton Beer Company on Saturday, December 20th, from 1 to 4 p.m., featuring vendors selling clothing, art, jewelry, and more, offering a chance for last-minute holiday shopping. He also extended holiday well-wishes, encouraging people to enjoy time with family and reach out to those who may be alone during the season. Commissioner Joseph Commissioner Joseph wished everyone happy holidays and encouraged checking on neighbors during the season. He also announced an opportunity for the community to help shape Dayton’s electric vehicle future through the RIDES program, which aims to expand public EV charging. Residents are invited to provide feedback via a survey at www.sopec.gov/rides. Mayor Mims Mayor Mims extended holiday greetings for Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, encouraging residents to remember those who may be alone during the season. He shared information about several community programs: the Dayton Fire Department and paramedicine team will host monthly clinics at city community centers, with specific dates in December, January, and February. The senior safe program continues, allowing Dayton residents to register for daily wellness checks, and a free seven-week “Stepping On” fall prevention program is available for residents aged 55 and older at the Greater Dayton Rec Center. He also noted that residents can follow up directly with city staff for updates on ongoing processes. Additionally, he announced funeral services for school board member Karen Wick, scheduled for December 21 at Omega Church. Finally, he recognized the 122nd anniversary of the Wright brothers’ first flight in Dayton, celebrating with a ceremony earlier in the day, and adjourned the meeting with thanks for everyone’s participation. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:02 p.m. WORK SESSION Before the Commission Meeting, there was a Work Session on the Student Vision Master Plan from Learn to Earn. Student Vision Master Plan- Learn to Earn. Stacy Wall Schweikart, the CEO of Learn to Earn, and Erica Fields, the Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives at Learn to Earn, presented an update on the Student Vision Master Plan. Learn to Earn uses its data to bring community partners together to identify strategies for improving outcomes for young people. Its goal is to create a seamless cradle-to-career pipeline for all youth in Montgomery County, focusing on early education, K–12 success, and college and career readiness. This initiative prioritizes proximate leadership, ensuring that young people help define goals, priorities, and strategies for long-term investment in youth. The master plan aims to unify resources across schools, out-of-school programs, and community partners to better serve students. Surveys were conducted to gather input directly from youth rather than relying on assumptions. Based on their feedback, data profiles were created for each priority area: leadership opportunities, safe neighborhoods, mental health, and college/career readiness. The recommended strategies for leadership opportunities are to create youth positions for the city government, establish a formal body for ongoing youth input, and incentivize ambassador positions for youth programs. For safe neighborhoods, the strategies should include youth-inclusive community events and sustain new bus routes connecting neighborhoods to community hubs. Recommended mental health strategies include creating youth-led peer support systems for conflict resolution and reintroducing essential school-based services such as counselors and social workers, supplemented by partnerships with community programs to fill gaps. A key priority is ensuring students have access to trusted adults, which requires professional development for school staff, counselors, and mentors to provide supportive guidance. Young people emphasized the need for clear pathways to postsecondary education and workforce opportunities, supported by connections to school and community resources. They also stressed a holistic, two-generation approach that includes caregivers to ensure families are engaged in preparing for future success. The recommendations for Dayton are to prioritize this vision implementation in budgeting, establish an interdepartmental lead, maintain a public progress tracking tool, and integrate this vision into the existing policy framework. The formation of a youth cabinet could be a big opportunity to help prevent student eviction, centralize investment data, and open a position with child friendly city UNICEF designation. Commissioner Fairchild asked if asset mapping would be a part of the strategy and where the youth want the bus locations to specifically go to. Asked if there was any data that could be provided on school-age families moving out of the city. Ms. Schweikart stated that yes, asset mapping has been used to determine available resources, and that the transportation should be centered around safe extracurricular activities that are not easily available within the city. She stated that they did not have the data on school-age family retention, and where these families or individuals move to is not available. Commissioner Shaw asked about opportunities to engage students earlier rather than waiting until high school. He asked how the initiative will continue to evolve and sustain itself through 2026 and whether there is efficient civic exposure. Ms. Schweikart stated that the focus primarily focused on high school students as an extension of the mayor’s youth summit, and the issues raised by these students often stem from lifelong experiences. Moving into 2026, the work on the youth commission needs to be completed before introducing strategies to younger students. Commissioner Joseph asked that if a youth commission were to be established, it has a clear vision for the input it would provide, focus on issues affecting the city of Dayton, and work more closely with partner organizations rather than the city commission. Mayor Mims highlighted the significant impact of its initiatives, particularly the Youth Summit. He referenced national research from institutions like Harvard and Brookings that validates these priorities and praised the city’s efforts to align with these findings through programs that expose junior high students to career opportunities and provide academic support. He then thanked those who presented and concluded the session.