City Council

200 South Hamilton Road City of Gahanna Gahanna, Ohio 43230 Meeting Minutes City Council Stephen A. Renner, President Merisa K. Bowers, Vice President Karen J. Angelou Nancy R. McGregor Kaylee Padova Michael Schnetzer Trenton I. Weaver Jeremy A. VanMeter, Clerk of Council Tuesday, June 21, 2022 7:00 PM City Hall, Council Chambers Regular Meeting date was moved to Tuesday, June 21, 2022 in observance of Juneteenth. City offices were closed on Monday, June 20, 2022. A. CALL TO ORDER: Invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, Roll Call Gahanna City Council met in Regular Session on Tuesday, June 21, 2022, in Council Chambers. President of Council Stephen A. Renner called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. Vice President of Council Merisa Bowers delivered an Invocation and led members in the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda for this meeting was published on June 17, 2022. President Renner announced that due to technological problems the meeting would not be live streamed this evening, nor would the audio system be functional for Members of Council and any member of the public desiring to address the Council. He asked for speakers to project their speech to be heard. Present 6 - Nancy R. McGregor, Merisa K. Bowers, Trenton I. Weaver, Kaylee Padova, Michael Schnetzer, and Stephen A. Renner Absent 1 - Karen J. Angelou B. ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS TO THE AGENDA: Vice President Bowers said that under Correspondence and Actions she would like the Council to review plans for golf cart signage for the Fourth of July parade. C. HEARING OF VISITORS: 1. Proclamation Presentation by Mayor Jadwin 2022-0185 Mayoral Proclamation - Harter 65th Anniversary June 16, 2022 City of Gahanna Page 1 City Council Meeting Minutes June 21, 2022 Mayor Jadwin reviewed with Council and those in attendance the purpose of proclamations. They are given to recognize special events, issues, and members of the community. For this proclamation, Jadwin noted that residents Rick and Inarae Harter were in the audience. The Harters have been residents of the City of Gahanna since 1965 and involved in many programs throughout the years. Mr. Harter said that he told his wife that he was here to be recognized for volunteer work in the community. Jadwin said that while Mr. Harter has done a lot of wonderful things for the City, the reason why they were invited was to commemorate and recognize a special milestone anniversary. She invited both Rick and Inarae Harter to approach the dais to receive a proclamation in celebration of the Harter’s 65th wedding anniversary. She noted these community members have planted roots in the City, raised children here, and given back through the community. Long time members of the Mifflin Presbyterian Church, the Harters have given back to the community through food for those in need. Jadwin formally presented the proclamation to Mr. and Mrs. Harter with congratulations and applause from the Council and audience. Mr. Harter spoke lovingly about his wife and how this had been kept a secret until the meeting. He said they have had a wonderful wedding anniversary week. They have great grandchildren enrolled in Gahanna schools. Both expressed their sincere thanks to all for the invitation and proclamation. 2. John Michael Spinelli of 97 Southwind Dr., Gahanna, Ohio, spoke on the 2nd Annual Red, White & Blues Block Party. Mr. Spinelli said he wanted everyone to know that in11 days on Saturday, July 2, 2022, the “Red, White & Blues Block Party” would take place from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. at the Gahanna Sanctuary in Olde Downtown Gahanna. He pointed to yard signs he brought for the event that he hoped the Council would take and put in their yards. This is a community event and a major fundraiser for the Gahanna Foundation. Started in July 2018, the Foundation raised money to put lights on the bell tower at the Gahanna Sanctuary. The July 2nd event will include food and fun and a lot of vendors. Spinelli provided a media release to Members of Council, which included information about a voter registration effort as part of the event. Spinelli estimated that about 1,500 residents in Gahanna were eligible but have not registered to vote. This event, however, is about raising money for the Foundation. The organization has a half dozen projects that are unique. He urged those in attendance to see the group’s website, thegahannafoundation.org. Spinelli indicated there will be future visits before Council to help educate the body on the work the Foundation is doing. He invited the Council to come to the event on July 2, 2022. 3. Kathy McCorkle of 677 Picadilly Ct., Gahanna, Ohio, spoke on RES-0014-2022. Ms. McCorkle said that one of deadliest of all sins is pride. She added that every year in America, forces of darkness dedicate an entire month of June to that sin. She said that now it is drag queen shows with sex fetishes that are aimed at children, with child molesters and pedophiles. McCorkle said that when the Council members voted for this two weeks ago with Resolution City of Gahanna Page 2 City Council Meeting Minutes June 21, 2022 0014-2022, they also voted for child abuse. She noted that a gay bar in Dallas, Texas hosted a drag themed Pride event. She said that kids were the target and parents had been urged to invite and bring children to the event. This included youngsters dressed in drag. Some children were encouraged to hand money to the performers. A neon sign on the wall [at the event] declared a pornographic statement. She stated that this was what the movement was of people the Council had voted to support. McCorkle added that she did not know of another group or movement acknowledged in Gahanna. She said “making Gahanna a welcoming community” was a fallacy used to support a “yes” vote. She said “this porch sign of debauchery does not have to be hung out” in the City and added that people could be welcomed without singling out others and acknowledging sexual behaviors. McCorkle said she wondered why there were no resolutions about girl scouts, truckers, farmers, bikers, taxpayers, or conservatives. She said she was sure that these groups felt excluded and forgotten. She said that this town should glorify God and not glorify the sin of the world. McCorkle stated that Council voted for a communist agenda and that acceptance of homosexuality was a political agenda of the Marxist left. McCorkle referenced a 1963 congressional record on communist goals that included presenting homosexuality and promiscuity as normal and natural. She stated that Council voted to worship the creature and not the Creator, voted for child abuse, and voted for communist policy for Gahanna. She said Jesus said, “go and sin no more,” but that Gahanna says, “come to sin in our town.” 4. Mary Dixon of 847 Eastchester Dr., Gahanna, Ohio, spoke on Source of Income Discrimination. Ms. Dixon said she previously spoke about the League of Women Voters’ advocacy of source of income (SOI) discrimination legislation at the Feb 7, 2022, Council meeting. She said that after she spoke, there were concerns expressed about SOI being controversial and the need for a survey of Gahanna landlords. Dixon shared that SOI discrimination legislation has been adopted nationally and in Ohio. There are 18 states, the District of Columbia and approximately 100 cities that have implemented SOI protection legislation. She shared that within Ohio, the following cities have adopted SOI legislation in some form: Cincinnati, Columbus, Glendale, South Euclid, Toledo, University Heights, Warrensville Heights, and Wickliffe. Additionally, the suburbs of Bexley, Reynoldsburg, Whitehall, and Worthington have enacted legislation. Gahanna would not be unique in doing the same. The idea of conducting a survey of Gahanna’s landlords was mentioned. Dixon said that Worthington conducted a survey. She added that when Columbus was working on its legislation, only one landlord attended their Council meeting to voice concern. She said that statistically speaking, a survey was not the most reliable means for gathering and analyzing data due to low response rates and wording of questions. Dixon spoke to economic development and its relationship to SOI legislation. She noted that in June 2021, about 43 jobs were added with a business expansion in the City, and in December 2021 ADB Safegate announced plans to build a center in Gahanna. She also referenced the growth of other smaller businesses. Additionally, she said with the Intel project, this and other businesses will need City of Gahanna Page 3 City Council Meeting Minutes June 21, 2022 employees. Dixon stated that by increasing rental availability through SOI discrimination legislation, there will be more workers available locally and more local consumers. She said Gahanna has an opportunity to improve living conditions while providing job opportunities for those seeking to make a better life for themselves. Dixon said that the Council was dragging its feet on such legislation. She stated she was disappointed that this has taken over a year to reach this level of inaction. D. PRESENTATIONS: 1. Department of Parks & Recreation Update - Academy Mountain Bike Trail Stephania Ferrell, Director of Parks & Recreation, said that she had some updates on the progress for the Mountain Bike Trail. She said that the City is looking to initiate a contract with American Ramp Company. This company has projects in over 44 countries. They are known worldwide and is exactly what Gahanna is looking for. She encouraged Council to look at the projects they have done by visiting the company’s website. With this project, the City is part of a cooperative purchasing agent, Sourcewell. The City can initiate state contract pricing for the design and build of the project. This will be located at Academy Park. There are foot trails that already exist. The Department is looking to formalize the trail and make the safest route. Ferrell said the City is looking to engage Central Ohio Mountain Bike Organization (COMBO) and a resident group that initiated this conversation about three years ago. She said that those stakeholders are very important to the project. With the help of the American Ramp Company, and stakeholders in Gahanna, the Department would like to move forward with contract. Because information had been shared previously on this through the budget process, Ferrell wanted to have the opportunity to discuss before a contract is signed. Councilmember Weaver thanked Director Ferrell for the update. He asked what the amount was for the contract. Ferrell responded that it would be approximately $250,000 for the design and construction. E. CONSENT AGENDA: 1. Minutes - To Approve: 2022-0180 CN Minutes 6.6.2022 These meeting minutes were Approved on the Consent Agenda. 2022-0182 CN Special Minutes 6.13.2022 These meeting minutes were Approved on the Consent Agenda. 2022-0183 COTW Minutes 6.13.2022 These meeting minutes were Approved on the Consent Agenda. City of Gahanna Page 4 City Council Meeting Minutes June 21, 2022 2. Resolutions: RES-0015-2022 A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE TAX BUDGET OF THE CITY OF GAHANNA, OHIO, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2023 This Resolution was Adopted on the Consent Agenda. RES-0017-2022 A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING JUNE 2022 AS ALZHEIMER'S AWARENESS AND BRAIN HEALTH MONTH This Resolution was Adopted on the Consent Agenda. RES-0019-2022 A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING JUNETEENTH, JUNE 19, 2022, IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA This Resolution was Adopted on the Consent Agenda. 3. Ordinances for Second Reading / Adoption: 1. ORD-0027-2022 AN ORDINANCE AUTH O R I Z I N G A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION - 2021 Sidewalk Maintenance Program This Ordinance was Adopted on the Consent Agenda. 4. Ordinances for Introduction & Waiver / Adoption as an Emergency: 1. ORD-0030-2022 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO A SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER (SRO) CONTRACT WITH THE GAHANNA-JEFFERSON PUBLIC SCHOOLS (GJPS) FOR THE 2022-2023 SCHOOL YEAR, WAIVING SECOND READING, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY This Ordinance was Adopted on the Consent Agenda. End of Consent Agenda A motion was made by Bowers, seconded by Weaver, to Pass the Consent Agenda. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- McGregor, Bowers, Weaver, Padova, Schnetzer and Renner Absent: 1- Angelou F. MOTIONS: 1. MT-0015-2022 A MOTION TO APPOINT JAMES MAKO TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION SEAT 1 FOR THE UNEXPIRED TERM ENDING City of Gahanna Page 5 City Council Meeting Minutes June 21, 2022 DECEMBER 31, 2023 Councilmember McGregor said this is to replace Bobbie Burba, who served on Planning Commission and had passed away. This appointee would serve the remainder of the unexpired term. Vice President Bowers thanked those who submitted applications. She noted that it was a short window to fill the vacancy. She thanked all those who had applied and noted that all three of the candidates that had been interviewed were well qualified for the position. She thanked Mr. Mako for his application and being willing to bring his expertise to the position. A motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Padova, that the Motion be Approved. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- McGregor, Bowers, Weaver, Padova, Schnetzer and Renner Absent: 1- Angelou G. RESOLUTIONS: 1. RES-0018-2022 A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING AND HONORING JONATHAN COOLEY Councilmember Weaver noted that Coach Cooley of the LA Rams was in attendance. Cooley is a Gahanna native and a 2007 graduate of Gahanna Lincoln High School. Weaver read the Resolution honoring Cooley. Councilmember Schnetzer asked Cooley if he brought his Super Bowl ring. Cooley responded that he had not yet received the ring. He added that the trophy would not fit in the carry-on. President Renner said it was an honor and privilege to have Cooley in chambers. He said so many in Gahanna had been glued to their TVs to watch the game. Cooley, with laughter from the audience, asked whether everyone had been rooting for the Rams. Renner thanked Cooley for representing Gahanna well. Cooley thanked the Council. He said the reason why he has been able to have the opportunities that he had throughout his career and in chasing his dreams was due to his own high school coach. He introduced his high school defensive backs coach, who was also in attendance. Cooley expressed his thanks to and recognized his parents, also in attendance, who let him devote time to football. He noted the importance of athletics in kids’ lives, allowing kids to chase their dreams, and having the community support. Cooley said he really appreciated for the Council having him here. Renner thanked Cooley and said he hoped Cooley continues to find outlets for his story, as he has a wonderful story to tell. A motion was made by Weaver, seconded by Bowers, that the Resolution be Adopted. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- McGregor, Bowers, Weaver, Padova, Schnetzer and Renner Absent: 1- Angelou City of Gahanna Page 6 City Council Meeting Minutes June 21, 2022 H. ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION / FIRST READING: 1. ORD-0031-2022 AN ORDINANCE ACCEPTING TAYLOR STATION ROAD ROADWAY INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS This Ordinance was Introduced by President Renner. I. ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION, WAIVER & EMERGENCY ADOPTION: 1. ORD-0032-2022 AN ORDINANCE REPEALING AND REPLACING GAHANNA CODE SECTION 549.10 PROHIBITING THE DISCHARGING, IGNITING OR EXPLODING OF FIREWORKS IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA, WAIVING SECOND READING, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. Vice President Bowers noted that it was unfortunate that the Council was not able to livestream this evening, as this is important information to get out to our residents. Bowers said she did talk to a fellow councilmember in Reynoldsburg. She said that Reynoldsburg clarified that they did vote down several exceptions, but had passed one narrow exception for July 4th, which is more in line with the region. Bowers said she thinks the Ordinance on the table is the cleanest solution. She noted that she had discussions offline with Chief Spence about why this is important for the safety of the community. Bowers also pointed out for the public that one of the attached files to the Ordinance file is not reflective of the change from the last Committee of the Whole. The change made during Committee was, however, reflected in the body of the legislation itself. Bowers said she appreciated the diligence from administration and the city attorney’s office on the Ordinance and felt confident in voting for the Ordinance. President Renner echoed that it was unfortunate the Council could not livestream this evening, as he knew several in the community had been interested in this. He noted that the Ordinance keeps the status quo and promotes public safety. A motion was made by Bowers, seconded by Weaver, that the Ordinance be Introduced, Second Reading Waived, and Adopted as an Emergency. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- McGregor, Bowers, Weaver, Padova, Schnetzer and Renner Absent: 1- Angelou J. CORRESPONDENCE AND ACTIONS: Clerk - None Council - Golf Cart Signage Vice President Bowers referenced an email she had circulated regarding golf cart signage for the July 4th Parade. In past years she recalled seeing City of Gahanna Page 7 City Council Meeting Minutes June 21, 2022 handmade signs from councilmembers and wanted to throw out the idea of having vinyl signs printed for councilmembers to hang on golf carts. In talking with President Renner, Bowers said they thought it would be best to get this on the agenda. For those golf carting, she asked whether there was interest in getting a sign. Several indicated affirmatively that they would like a sign. Bowers said that an initial quote had a sign at $25 apiece. The size estimated was 18 inches by 14 inches and that the idea would be to zip-tie the banner to the posts on the back of the golf cart in some way. Director Ferrell confirmed that this would be fine. Councilmember McGregor wondered whether with those dimensions that the sign could be seen by people. Ferrell said she could get the dimensions for a best fit. Bowers said the size will be in that ballpark. She said that she could get the mock-ups to the printer to get them back by July 2nd. Renner confirmed that the carts could be decorated in red, white, and blue. K. REPRESENTATIVES: Councilmember McGregor exited the meeting at 7:37 p.m. Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) - Renner, Weaver President Renner noted that the Council and CIC did have a joint meeting this morning. He did not have his notes with him but said he would give a more detailed report at the next meeting. He thought the meeting went well and asked for feedback or comment from those members that were in attendance. Councilmember Padova said she thought it was very helpful learn more about how CIC was organized and what it did. Vice President Bowers said she talked about delivery of governance this morning, and that this was what she was hearing from CIC as well. In terms of revised policies, such as records retention, and the CIC website, she said this was bringing transparency to this quasi-public body. Bowers said it was a great opportunity and was glad to hear from Board President Betty Collins on these items. She expressed thanks to the organizers of the joint meeting. Councilmember Weaver said it was a privilege to serve on the CIC. He thanked Renner for the appointment. Weaver said he thought that what the CIC does is not very well known. The CIC is a function of Revised Code. He said that Collins had the code section presented for members. Weaver paraphrased the Revised Code, noting that the CIC is a not-for-profit that is organized for several purposes, such as to advance, encourage, and promote industrial and economic development of community, facilitate the reclamation, rehabilitation, and reutilization of vacant or abandoned property, efficiently manage these properties, assist governmental entities to assemble clear titles of property, and promote economic and housing development in the region. Weaver said one thing he heard in his campaign was people concerned about responsible and sustainable development. He said that the CIC is one tool to do this. Renner thanked Weaver for noting these items. He added that the CIC is composed of business leaders that live in Gahanna, which was a crucial part to emphasize, as they have an interest in seeing Gahanna prosper. Renner City of Gahanna Page 8 City Council Meeting Minutes June 21, 2022 said that the Mayor is also a member. Renner said the Mayor had very good staff for planning and development and that CIC is well run. Renner expressed thanks to CIC Board President Betty Collins for doing this first Council-CIC joint meeting. He noted that there will be another one in November. Renner hoped that this joint meeting would become a regular semi-annual practice. Mayor Jadwin said November 15th will be next joint CIC meeting. Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) - Angelou No report. Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) - Padova Councilmember Padova said she did not have any updates to pass along from Lori Kappes, Executive Director of the CVB. Padova said she hopes Kappes is resting and getting a lot of deserved sleep after the Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival. She said that the Festival had the best weather probably within the last ten years. Padova said she volunteered Friday night and that her family went on Sunday. Padova said it was lovely and is sure that Kappes’ update would be that the event was very successful. School Board (SB) - Bowers Vice President Bowers stated that the new superintendent starts August 1st. The District will be having welcoming sessions to meet Dr. Deagle, the new superintendent. She thanked outgoing Superintendent Steve Barrett and added that the Mayor presented a proclamation on Thursday for this as well. Bowers gave a shout out to Chief Spence for speaking at the school board meeting on the topic of safety in schools in general, the SRO program, and what takes to have trained safety personnel. Bowers noted that Chief spoke about HB 99 (a bill that allows districts to decide whether to arm employees) specifically. She said the Board and parents were very appreciative of the Chief’s openness to dialogue on this topic that is very stressful for many in the district. L. OFFICIAL REPORTS: Mayor Mayor Jadwin thanked Vice President Bowers for mentioning last week’s school board meeting. She said the school board had reached out to Chief Spence following the commentary during Council as it related to the SRO contract. Jadwin thought Chief did a superb job at explaining the impact of [HB 99] and what the training is like for Gahanna police officers versus what could potentially happen with the bill. She reiterated that the school officials were appreciative of the Chief attending the board meeting. As mentioned previously, the Mayor presented a Proclamation to Steve Barrett City of Gahanna Page 9 City Council Meeting Minutes June 21, 2022 commemorating and honoring his service to the community. Although she had known Barret for several years, the Mayor noted she only had the opportunity to work with Barrett the last two and half years, with a rather unusual start in working together. Seventy days in, the City and world was faced with COVID-19. Jadwin said Barrett had alluded to comments about “the chapter of leading through a pandemic” and noted that there is no such chapter or book. She recalled the daily task force calls with school superintendent and Chief Spence, Chief Kauser, and the partnership and support between schools, police, fire, and administration strengthened a bond immediately. She said she is very appreciative of this. Additionally, Jadwin expressed her thanks to Lori Kappes and the Visit Gahanna team. Jadwin also thanked Council, as she saw most volunteering at the event. She stressed how wonderful it was seeing the streets filled again. Jadwin thanked members of Department of Parks & Recreation and Public Safety for tremendous logistical efforts that go into safety of the event, as well as the Department of Public Service for management of street closures and making sure all is done in a safe manner for the thousands of folks who attended the event. Jadwin said it took the support of all three of these departments to help put on Gahanna’s biggest party of the year. In the latest edition of Uniquely Gahanna, Jadwin noted an article on Central Ohio Urology Group, which has been in Gahanna for several years and located on Tech Center Drive. She said the story focuses on cutting-edge technology, now utilizing robotics for surgeries. They are one of only five in the nation that do that surgery. She said that Dr. Abaza, the leading physician in this, is sought out by people worldwide and come to Gahanna to have a surgery performed by him. The Group has become the hub for what is becoming the medical sector at The Crescent. She encouraged others to read the article. Jadwin said that Make Gahanna Yours will have a litter clean-up on Saturday, June 25th from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. This is their second event of the year for litter clean-up. Volunteers are needed and welcome. They will meet in Friendship Park that morning. Jadwin said there would be a third event in the fall. Jadwin expressed thanks to the group and volunteers for keeping the city clean and beautiful. The Farmers Market presented by Make Gahanna Yours will be Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. combined with Midweek at the Creek, which is returning 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Jadwin also noted there was a Creekside Boutique event for Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. organized by fashion retail businesses in the heart of Creekside. There will be outside vendors and other retail fashion folks. This is designed to draw foot traffic and activity in the heart of city. Jadwin shared that Joann Bury, Director of Finance, and her team once again received the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada’s “Excellence in Financial Reporting” award for the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report that ended December 31, 2020. Jadwin said this is the highest award that can be given and is a significant accomplishment. She added that this is the 8th consecutive year Bury and her team have received this award for their financial reporting. Lastly, Jadwin recognized Keith Winn, Director of Public Safety, who was recently honored as “Hometown Hero” at a special event. This was an event sponsored by Huntington Bank and Central Ohio Automotive Group. There were 15 recipients from across the state. He was nominated by a local business for his 35 years in law enforcement service including service as a Columbus Police sergeant and as the Director of Public Safety in Gahanna. The purpose City of Gahanna Page 10 City Council Meeting Minutes June 21, 2022 of the award is to recognize first responders for all their dedication and service in giving back to community. Jadwin emphasized the City has people who work who are truly dedicated and come to work every day to serve our residents in the best way possible. She wanted to recognize their achievements as well. City Attorney Attorney Mularski said he did not have anything to report, aside from the one matter which would be discussed in Executive Session. M. COUNCIL COMMENT: Councilmember Padova thanked Chief Spence for attending the school board meeting. While she could not attend, she stated she heard all his comments and that he did an excellent job in being thorough on how HB 99 could affect schools and putting things into perspective for the public. Padova conveyed her congratulations to Director Winn. She also expressed thanks to Coach Cooley and offered her congratulations. Lastly, she invited all to come to the park on Thursday from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. for “Popsicles in the Park” at Rathburn Woods. This is hosted by both Padova and Bowers. She hoped to see people there. Councilmember Weaver expressed thanks to all who came this evening and expressed themselves during Hearing of Visitors. With respect to the Resolution, he again conveyed his thanks to Coach Cooley. Weaver said he was honored to have Cooley and Cooley’s supporters in Chambers. Weaver noted that these resolutions are often given for recognizing special weeks and months, but also used to uplift members of community and those who have gone on to do incredible things. He was honored to craft the Resolution to be able to recognize Cooley’s accomplishments. Weaver said that he was happy to volunteer at the Creekside Blues & Jazz Fest. He thanked everyone who donated their time to the event and mentioned it was a tremendous success. Weaver said he stopped by Reynoldsburg to show support for recognizing Juneteenth. The event also recognized the work yet to be done. Weaver wished those who celebrated, a Belated Happy Father’s Day. Lastly, Weaver congratulated the Harters for reaching their anniversary milestone. Councilmember Schnetzer also noted that the Creekside Blues & Jazz Fest over the weekend had been very well attended. He said he was sure that the CVB was thankful for good weather. Schnetzer volunteered for the “aqua team.” He said this was a bit misleading because it was involving anything liquid, including in solid form (ice). He thanked the Mayor, city staff, safety forces, and mentioned he saw several employees. Schnetzer also thanked all who came forward to volunteer for that event. Vice President Bowers congratulated Coach Cooley and noted that his parents in attendance were beaming. She said she appreciated Cooley’s comments earlier. Sports and athletic participation are such a critical part of City of Gahanna Page 11 City Council Meeting Minutes June 21, 2022 kids’ lives. Bowers said that in Gahanna, people are very cognizant of this and want to keep that moving forward and make sure that everyone who wants to play has a place to do it. Bowers thanked Mary Dixon speaking on source of income discrimination. Bowers also noted for the record that she circulated her most recent constituent report via email and was submitting it for the minutes. She noted that Council had passed the Juneteenth Resolution by consent. There was no discussion on this at tonight’s meeting, but the Council had discussion during Committee of the Whole. Bowers said that in her household, they have been having new conversations about American history and Black American history and the impact of what Juneteenth is and how little about black history is taught in school. She said her husband only found out a few years ago about the Tulsa Massacre. She stressed how important it is we learn about history so as not to repeat it. Bowers said she was glad that the state and nation is recognizing this import holiday. Also, Bowers said she went to Reynoldsburg over the weekend for their Juneteenth Festival, which included many vendors and corporate support for the community celebration. It was a good way for the community to come together, to learn, and to celebrate contributions of the black community. Bowers also echoed thanks to Division of Police, Parks & Recreation, and Public Service departments for work on the Creekside Blues & Jazz Fest. She said everyone had a lot of fun, including her son who helped greet people. Attorney Mularski said he was a star. Bowers also mentioned that it was nice to interact with Dan Pearlman, the new Public Information Officer. President Renner thanked Coach Cooley, as well Cooley’s coach in attendance, and urged Cooley to tell his story. He said this would be beautiful for his parents, the schools, and kids coming up who need to hear this. Renner also thanked Chief Spence for doing tremendous job, noting the Chief has distinguished himself as great speaker, going out and educating the community on public safety. He said the Chief has been a mentor and teacher as well. Renner also expressed congratulations to Director Winn for his recognition as a Hometown Hero and thanked him for what he does for the City and community. He said he understood from his work at the county level that directors push their staff to get all the recognition but rarely get recognition themselves. He emphasized his thanks, again, to Director Winn. Renner stated that he did not get to go to Creekside Blues & Jazz Fest. This was the first in years he and his family have not been able to attend. Renner noted that the family was dealing with something quite hard involving family health. He said that he was very grateful for weather, which was a reprieve. Renner noted that last week had been chaos with the loss of power, especially on the west side. It was out almost 48 hours. Renner said they were able to get creative in ways to beat the heat. He went to the Splash Pad and had a good time. He said he got to be a kid again and urged those who had not gone to the Splash Pad to check it out. He noted that the Mayor had opened the Splash Pad that day free to the public for use, of which he and those at the Splash Pad were thankful for. Speaking to all in attendance, Renner described that one hears about all fantastic things the City does, but that it “takes a village” to do all this. He thanked the Mayor for everything she has been doing. There are many pieces and parts on how this all comes City of Gahanna Page 12 City Council Meeting Minutes June 21, 2022 together. There are many names not said but should be included in recognition of the effort. He also noted the Council cannot forget about the residents. Renner noted that the residents are the Council’s boss, and the Council takes action to recognize its citizens, sometimes in groups and sometimes solo. As elected leaders, he said councilmembers do not have the luxury of sitting behind one opinion. He said the elected officials take an oath of office, and that each on takes this oath serious. They take an oath to uphold the US Constitution. He urged everyone to read it again. He reminded that the community is getting ready to celebrate Independence Day and that the nation had also recently celebrated African American Independence with Juneteenth. These are very important things. Renner said with the oath, elected officials must recognize every individual citizen, and that everyone has rights in this nation. 2022-0186 May Bowers Constituent Report 062122 N. EXECUTIVE SESSION: Councilmember Angelou joined the meeting at 8:07pm via phone. President Renner informed the public and noted for the record why Councilmember Angelou was joining by phone. He said that Angelou had been injured and was not able to attend in person. Renner stated that she wanted to participate in deliberations the Council was going into for Executive Session. After conferring with the Clerk of Council and City Attorney, Renner said that in February 2022, the Ohio General Assembly had passed an emergency measure that was signed into law that allowed public entities to participate in a virtual sense as a legal public meeting. He reminded that in the beginning and height of the pandemic, all entities had to rush to figure out how to do business. The state brought this ability back to help facilitate public meetings, but Renner noted the law expires in 9 days. On advice of the City Attorney, Renner stated the Council would take advantage of this provision and have Councilmember Angelou participate via phone. 1. A motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Weaver to go into Executive Session under authority of 1) Section 5.40(c) of the Council Rules of Procedure to confer with the City Attorney for the public body concerning disputes involving the public body that are the subject of pending or imminent court action and 2) under authority of Section 5.40(b) of the Council Rules of Procedure to consider the purchase of property for public purposes, the sale of property at competitive bidding, or the sale or other disposition of unneeded, obsolete, or unfit- for-use property in accordance with section 505.10 of the Revised Code. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Angelou, Bowers, Weaver, Padova, Schnetzer and Renner Absent: 1- McGregor City of Gahanna Page 13 City Council Meeting Minutes June 21, 2022 President Renner announced that the Council, Mayor, and Attorney Mularski would meet for the first part Executive Session and that Kevin Schultz, IT Manager, Miranda Vollmer, Director of Administrative Services, and Jeff Spence, Chief of Police would join for the second part. Renner also noted the Executive Session would be held in the Committee Room. Council rose to report to Executive Session at 8:11 p.m. Council rose to report from Executive Session at 9:21 p.m. with no further action. O. ADJOURNMENT: With no further business before the Council, President Renner adjourned the meeting at 9:22 p.m. Jeremy A. VanMeter Clerk of Council APPROVED by the City Council, this day of 2022. Stephen A. Renner City of Gahanna Page 14