City Council

200 South Hamilton Road City of Gahanna Gahanna, Ohio 43230 Meeting Minutes City Council Stephen A. Renner, President Trenton I. Weaver, Vice President Karen J. Angelou Merisa K. Bowers Nancy R. McGregor Kaylee Padova Michael Schnetzer Jeremy A. VanMeter, Clerk of Council Monday, November 6, 2023 7:00 PM City Hall, Council Chambers A. CALL TO ORDER: Invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, Roll Call Gahanna City Council met in Regular Session on Monday, November 6, 2023, in Council Chambers. President of Council Stephen A. Renner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Vice President of Council Trenton I. Weaver delivered an Invocation and led members in the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda was published on November 3, 2023. Present 7 - Karen J. Angelou, Merisa K. Bowers, Nancy R. McGregor, Kaylee Padova, Stephen A. Renner, Michael Schnetzer, and Trenton I. Weaver B. ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS TO THE AGENDA: President Renner noted that the previously planned swearings-in for the Division of Police had been postponed and was removed from the agenda. C. HEARING OF VISITORS: 1. Certified Municipal Clerk Presentation - Ohio Municipal Clerks Association Clerk of Council Jeremy VanMeter expressed gratitude to the council for recognizing and issuing a resolution for Pam Ripley, the Deputy Clerk of Council, for achieving her CMC (Certified Municipal Clerk) certification. He highlighted Pam's invaluable contributions, expertise, and role as a vital resource in the Council Office, providing assistance to citizens, Planning Commission members, City Council members, staff, and the administration. Mr. VanMeter praised Pam for her role in budget management, legislative research, minute reviews, collaboration with city departments, record management, and orientation of new commission members to city government. He commended Pam's caring nature, perseverance, and pride in her work for the city of Gahanna. Mr. VanMeter expressed great pleasure in recognizing Pam for her hard work and service to the city. He then turned the microphone over to Mollie Prasher, Reynoldsburg City Clerk and Ohio Municipal Clerks Association President, for remarks and the presentation of the CMC certification. City of Gahanna Page 1 City Council Meeting Minutes November 6, 2023 Mollie Prasher, President of the Ohio Municipal Clerks Association, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to be present and extended thanks to Mayor Jadwin, Council President Renner, and all council members. She introduced herself as the president of the association and the clerk for the City of Reynoldsburg. Ms. Prasher was present to recognize Deputy Clerk Pam Ripley for earning her Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) certification. She provided background information on the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC), a professional organization with more than 15,000 members in the US, Canada, and other countries. Ms. Prasher outlined IIMC's primary goals, including promoting continuing education and professional development through various means such as educational programs, certification, publications, annual conferences, and research. The Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation, according to Ms. Prasher, is a prestigious honor among clerks. To achieve this, municipal clerks must attend extensive educational programming and demonstrate relevant experience in a municipality. The program, in partnership with institutions of higher learning, has been in existence since 1970 and has benefited thousands of clerks globally. Ms. Prasher officially presented the CMC certification to Deputy Clerk Pam Ripley, acknowledging her dedication and hard work over several years. She highlighted the significance of the achievement, noting that out of 15,000 international clerks, Ms. Ripley is one of 3,626 members worldwide to obtain this certification. In Ohio, she is only the 102nd clerk to hold the current CMC designation. Expressing confidence in Pam's dedication to Gahanna and her outstanding work for the city, Ms. Prasher congratulated her on this significant accomplishment. The presentation concluded with applause. D. CONSENT AGENDA: 1. Minutes - To Approve: 2023-0195 CN Minutes 10.16.2023 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2023-0196 CN Special Minutes 10.18.2023 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2023-0197 COTW Minutes 10.23.2023 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2. Resolutions: RES-0034-2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF FUNDS - Sewer Fund to Sewer Capital Fund; and General Fund to Council Office Insurance Benefits City of Gahanna Page 2 City Council Meeting Minutes November 6, 2023 The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda. RES-0035-2023 A RESOLUTION COMMENDING PAM RIPLEY, DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL, ON THE ACHIEVEMENT OF "CERTIFIED MUNICIPAL CLERK" (CMC) AS AWARDED BY THE INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF MUNICIPAL CLERKS The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda. End of Consent Agenda Councilmember McGregor highlighted the Resolution Commending Pam Ripley for the Achievement of the Certified Municipal Clerk. A motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Bowers, to Pass the Consent Agenda. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 7- Angelou, Bowers, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver E. ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION / FIRST READING: ORD-0072-2023 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO AWARD AND ENTER INTO CONTRACT WITH DIRT DAWG EXCAVATING LLC FOR THE CLAYCRAFT ROAD WATERLINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT (ST-1089) President Renner introduced the Ordinance and read it by title. ORD-0073-2023 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICE TO AWARD AND THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO CONTRACT WITH COMPLETE GENERAL CONSTRUCTION FOR STREETLIGHT AND TRAFFIC INFRASTRUCTURE MAINTENANCE President Renner introduced the Ordinance and read it by title. ORD-0074-2023 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS - Water Meter Fees President Renner introduced the Ordinance and read it by title. ORD-0075-2023 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS - Sewer Capital Fund, Street Fund, Parks & Recreation Fund, and TIF Fund President Renner introduced the Ordinance and read it by title. ORD-0076-2023 AN ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO A STATE INFRASTRUCTURE BANK (SIB) LOAN APPLICATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $2 MILLION FOR A TERM OF 20 YEARS TO SUPPORT RELATED INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS IN THE PROJECT AREA City of Gahanna Page 3 City Council Meeting Minutes November 6, 2023 KNOWN AS THE CRESCENT AT CENTRAL PARK President Renner introduced the Ordinance and read it by title. ORD-0077-2023 AN ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN INFRASTRUCTURE CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT WITH CP CRESCENT, LLC, TO ENGAGE THE DEVELOPER AS THE CONTRACTOR FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW STREET AND RELATED UTILITIES AT THE CRESCENT AT CENTRAL PARK; AND TO ACCEPT A SIB LOAN SHORTFALL GUARANTY FROM THE DEVELOPER President Renner introduced the Ordinance and read it by title. F. CORRESPONDENCE AND ACTIONS: 1. Clerk - None. 2. Council Councilmember Bowers mentioned that since the previous update to Council from Move to Prosper, there had been a name change for the organization. She informed the council that Move to Prosper is now known as Families Flourish. Councilmember Bowers emphasized that despite the name change, Families Flourish retains the same mission and continues to focus on building inclusive communities while advocating for housing access across the region. President Renner inquired about the organization’s new website. Ms. Bowers confirmed that the new website is familiesflourish.org. G. REPRESENTATIVES: 1. Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) - Renner, Weaver Vice President Weaver provided updates from the CIC meeting held on Tuesday, October 24th. He reported that the CIC's audit had been completed and sent to the state for review. Additionally, the CIC was actively working on the development and update of a public records retention policy. Vice President Weaver shared that the Mayor had met with the Franklin County Engineer's office and the City of New Albany to discuss widening Morse Road from the roundabout at Reynoldsburg New Albany. He noted the uniqueness of this stretch of road, mentioning that the City of Columbus owns a few parcels, and there were plans for New Albany to annex some of those parcels. Mayor Jadwin confirmed that there were two parcels currently owned by the city of Columbus, and New Albany would be annexing them to address this situation. Continuing, Vice President Weaver discussed planning updates. He mentioned an open house held with Council and the Planning Commission to review the zoning code. The goal was to have a draft of the zoning code before both the Planning Commission and Council by the end of the year. Director Blackford highlighted that this time of year typically sees City of Gahanna Page 4 City Council Meeting Minutes November 6, 2023 new development requests. In conclusion, Vice President Weaver informed the council that an executive session was held under Revised Code 121.22 (G)(8). He reminded everyone that minutes could be found at Gahannacic.com and announced that the next meeting would be on Tuesday, November 21st. 2. Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) - Angelou Councilmember Angelou provided an update regarding MORPC’s recent Executive Committee meeting. She expressed appreciation for the Sustainability Summit held last week. The summit saw a significant turnout with 631 attendees, 30 sponsors, and organizations contributing a total sponsorship of $104,890. Councilmember Angelou acknowledged Mayor Jadwin for playing a crucial role in making the event successful. She highlighted the ongoing LinkUS project, describing it as a substantial and impressive initiative that will take a considerable amount of time to complete. Councilmember Angelou mentioned the addition of two new planners and touched upon developments related to the Central Ohio visit by the CHIPS Office, with discussions on the passenger rail project and the search for an executive director for Rapid 5. Councilmember Angelou also mentioned the upcoming regional water collaboration and planning, scheduled to commence in January 2024. She shared information about the Executive Committee's plan to have a lunch break with Tracy Hadden Loh on the following Thursday. Tracy Hadden Loh is a fellow with the Anne T. and Robert M. Bass Center for Transformative Placemaking at Brookings Metro, with expertise in commercial real estate, infrastructure, racial justice, and governance. Councilmember Angelou anticipated a positive and informative session with Tracy Hadden Loh. 3. Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) - Padova Councilmember Padova provided updates on upcoming events and initiatives in Gahanna. She reminded everyone about the Holiday Lights Celebration scheduled for Sunday, November 19th, from 3:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Creekside. The event featured various attractions, including carriage rides, train rides, an ice carving demonstration, Touch a Truck, stage performances by local groups, live reindeer, s'mores making, and more. She emphasized the presence of sensory kits, made possible by the Gahanna Community Grant Program, for those with sensory needs. Councilmember Padova also mentioned the Santa Race 5K and the Little Reindeer Dash on Saturday, December 2nd, starting and ending at Creekside. She encouraged early registration for these family-friendly events, which can be done through the VisitGahanna.com website. Volunteers were still needed for both events, and interested individuals could sign up on the events page. Furthermore, Councilmember Padova highlighted the visits with Santa at the Ohio Herb Center on Saturday, December 9th, requiring advance registration at a cost of $5 per family. All proceeds from this event would be donated to GRIN for holiday needs. She urged interested individuals to register on the Ohio Herb Center's website. Councilmember Padova informed Council about the collaboration between the CVB and the Columbus Dispatch on a digital City of Gahanna Page 5 City Council Meeting Minutes November 6, 2023 campaign promoting Gahanna as a destination for holiday events, shopping, and dining. The campaign included a contest where participants had the chance to win $500 worth of gift cards to Gahanna businesses, running through November 19th. Details about all these events and initiatives were also available on the Visit Gahanna website and Facebook page. 4. School Board (SB) - Bowers Councilmember Bowers provided several updates from Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools (GJPS). She first mentioned the upcoming Community University - Adult Community Education series, with the first session scheduled for Thursday, November 9th, at Clark Hall. Registration was required for attendance due to limited space, and Councilmember Bowers expressed gratitude to all the participating partners. Councilmember Bowers highlighted the recent GJPS workshop held on November 2nd, which focused on the science of reading and literacy objectives, including the implementation of new statewide dyslexia laws. She encouraged those with questions, especially related to K through 3 and reading guarantees, to view the online recording of the workshop. The district had been actively engaged in strategic planning, starting with a two-day strategy session in September 2023. Stakeholders, including Councilwoman Padova as a representative from the City Council, participated in group discussions, vision-setting exercises, individual reflections, and group brainstorming to gather input for the strategic plan. The strategic plan framework was developed based on the insights gathered during these sessions. Councilmember Bowers informed the Council that the strategic plan framework had been submitted to GJPS families for review, and the district requested responses by the end of the day on Wednesday, November 8th. In conclusion, Councilmember Bowers extended congratulations to the girls' cross-country team that participated in States and to the boys' varsity football team for winning their first two postseason games. She wished the football team good luck in their upcoming game on Friday. H. OFFICIAL REPORTS: 1. Mayor Mayor Jadwin began her update by acknowledging ongoing and upcoming events in Gahanna. She briefly recapped the MORPC Summit on Sustainability held on October 26, highlighting the insights shared by Todd Brady from Intel and the panel discussion with local sustainability leaders, including Bo Chilton who is the CEO of IMPACT Community Action in Columbus and Gahanna resident. The Mayor had the honor of presenting Mr. Chilton with Collaborative Achievement Award for his work with IMPACT. Chilton goes to work every day helping those who are in poverty and making an impact on his community. The Mayor expressed appreciation for the Gahanna Parks and Recreation Department's successful execution of the Great Gahanna Goblin Fest, creating a vibrant and enjoyable experience for thousands of families. She also acknowledged the recent Trick or Treat night, noting the sudden onset of winter weather. Mayor Jadwin informed the City of Gahanna Page 6 City Council Meeting Minutes November 6, 2023 Council about the recent Zoning Code Open House, stating that positive feedback had been received, and another session, potentially focused on the business community, might be added. She mentioned the distribution of the "Uniquely Gahanna" magazine spotlighting the meaningful work of residents in the city and positive feedback received on social media. Mayor Jadwin also announced an upcoming planning meeting on Thursday, November 8th at 6 PM for the city's 175th-anniversary celebration, Gahanna 175. The Mayor highlighted other upcoming events, including the Veterans Day ceremony at the high school, the Gahanna Veterans Committee's annual brick dedication ceremony, and the launch of a new pumpkin composting program to promote sustainability. Mayor Jadwin introduced the "Light Up Gahanna" initiative, encouraging residents to decorate their houses for the holidays. She also announced the upcoming presentation of the 2024 proposed budget request to the Council and extended congratulations to the Gahanna cross country girls and the boys' football team. The Mayor concluded by emphasizing the significance of Election Day, urging residents to exercise their right to vote and expressing gratitude to those who have served and sacrificed for the freedoms enjoyed by the community. 2. City Attorney City Attorney Mularski informed the Council that he would be unavailable for the next couple of meetings. However, he assured them that Assistant City Attorney Matt Roth was fully briefed on all matters and would be capable of handling proceedings in his absence. I. COUNCIL COMMENT: Councilmember Angelou expressed her appreciation for the recently received "Uniquely Gahanna" magazine, noting the front cover featuring GRIN (Gahanna Residents In Need). She commended the content of the magazine and conveyed her positive impressions while reading it. Angelou acknowledged Mr. Pearlman, the City’s Public Information Officer, was the lead contributor to the magazine and thanked him for his efforts. She concluded her comments by expressing anticipation for future editions of the magazine. Councilmember McGregor provided updates on activities related to GRIN. She mentioned a recent presentation at her church about GRIN. McGregor informed the council that the GRIN truck would be located behind New Life Church on the upcoming Sunday for collecting items for donation, including gravy, stuffing, green beans, cranberries, canned pumpkin, toilet paper, and toothbrushes. Additionally, McGregor shared reflections on the recent elections, acknowledging the inherent messiness and controversies associated with the democratic process. She emphasized the importance of ballots over violence, expressing gratitude for the democratic system. Councilmember McGregor concluded her remarks by reading a Bible verse: “ Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Councilmember Bowers began by acknowledging Veterans Day, expressing City of Gahanna Page 7 City Council Meeting Minutes November 6, 2023 gratitude for the sacrifices made by veterans and their families. She took a moment to honor their service. Switching to a lighter note, Bowers mentioned a friendly wager with Reynoldsburg council members. This involved Gahanna council members Kaylee Padova and Bowers against Reynoldsburg council members Meredith Lawson-Rowe and Shanette Strickland. The wager involved a donation to GRIN based on the outcome of a football game between Gahanna Lincoln Lions and Reynoldsburg. Gahanna's victory resulted in over 40 pounds of groceries being donated to GRIN. Bowers then thanked Councilwoman McGregor for her earlier comments. She proceeded to reflect on the upcoming election, specifically referencing the landmark case Roe v. Wade, decided over 50 years ago. Bowers quoted Justice Blackmun's statement which included Justice Holmes' admonition in Lochner v. New York, "[The Constitution] is made for people of fundamentally differing views, and the accident of our finding certain opinions natural and familiar or novel and even shocking ought not to conclude our judgment upon the question whether statutes embodying them conflict with the Constitution of the United States." She added that Justice Blackmun further said, "One's philosophy, one's experiences, one's exposure to the raw edges of human existence, one's religious training, one's attitudes toward life and family and their values, and the moral standards one establishes and seeks to observe, are all likely to influence and to color one's thinking and conclusions about abortion." Bowers called upon those who would be voting on issues that will affect future generations, to consider, with empathy, the differences in experiences that lead one to different conclusions. She encouraged everyone to vote, reminding everyone that their vote matters. Bowers concluded by noting that our daughters are watching, underlining the significance of Election Day. Councilmember Padova began by expressing appreciation for Councilmember Bowers' remarks, acknowledging the challenge of following such impactful comments. Moving on to other matters, Padova emphasized the focus on GRIN, especially with Thanksgiving approaching. She shared a practical reminder, based on her experience moving boxes in the pantry, to avoid donating heavy and breakable items, such as glass jars, to ensure a smoother process. Padova then provided a recap of recent events she attended, including the Ohio Municipal League conference, MORPC Sustainability Summit, the Great Goblin Trail organized by the Parks and Recreation Department, and Trick-or-Treat night. Shifting to the importance of the upcoming election, Padova urged viewers to make a plan to vote and encouraged them to reach out to friends to remind them of the significance of local elections. She emphasized that local elections matter and play a crucial role in shaping the community. Padova concluded by underlining the importance of being a voter in local elections. Councilmember Schnetzer began his remarks by acknowledging the upcoming elections, extending good luck to all the candidates. He expressed an understanding of the significant effort and courage required to participate in elections, emphasizing the challenges of facing neighbors and seeking their support. Schnetzer genuinely wished success to everyone involved in the electoral process. Shifting the focus to Veterans Day, Schnetzer shared his reflections on the current global situation, emphasizing the awareness of the world being volatile and dangerous. He acknowledged that many of the City of Gahanna Page 8 City Council Meeting Minutes November 6, 2023 freedoms and the way of life enjoyed are directly linked to the military might of the country, attributing it to the veterans. Schnetzer urged the audience to take the time before November 11th to express gratitude to the veterans in their lives, whether they are family members or friends, recognizing and thanking them for their service to the nation. Vice President Weaver commenced his remarks by extending congratulations to Deputy Clerk Pam Ripley for her significant accomplishment in earning her certification. He acknowledged her dedication and expressed gratitude to Clerk VanMeter for orchestrating the presentation. Weaver also appreciated the presence of former Clerk Krystal Gonchar in the chambers, showing support for her former colleague. Transitioning to the MORPC Summit on Sustainability, Weaver shared his attendance and highlighted the keynote speech at the luncheon. The speech focused on utilizing parks as tools for sustainability, emphasizing various aspects such as surface materials, trees, shading, comfort, practicality, and ease of use. In closing, Weaver echoed his colleagues' sentiments on Veterans Day. He offered a unique perspective, being a first-generation American with parents who are lawful permanent resident aliens. Despite not being citizens, Weaver's parents have never voted, showcasing the significance of the democratic process in the United States. He encouraged everyone to exercise their freedom to vote on Election Day and urged kindness towards poll workers who dedicate their time, mentioning that he would be among them starting at 5:30 in the morning. President Renner expressed gratitude to Clerk VanMeter for organizing the recognition for Deputy Clerk Pam Ripley, who achieved a notable certification. While recognizing Ripley's absence in chambers, Renner assured that he conveyed the sentiments of congratulations to her. He noted that he had not fully realized that the municipal clerk’s profession was worldwide. Moving on to the Sustainability Summit, Renner praised the event, having attended it from start to finish. He acknowledged Mayor Jadwin's contributions to the Summit and highlighted the concept of Urban Agriculture as particularly enlightening. Renner emphasized exploring holistic approaches, extending beyond parks and trees to include lawns and yards. Regarding Veterans Day, Renner encouraged participation in the respectful ceremonies and expressed appreciation for veterans, emphasizing outreach to older and homeless veterans. He echoed his colleagues' sentiments about the significance of local elections in shaping community matters, from zoning to sustainability. Renner urged citizens to exercise their right to vote, emphasizing its role as a civic duty. He thanked all the candidates for their efforts, acknowledging the courage it takes to enter public service and face criticism. Renner reminded everyone that public service is about serving the people and encouraged a revisit of the virtues outlined in the Constitution's Preamble before casting their votes. J. EXECUTIVE SESSION: City of Gahanna Page 9 City Council Meeting Minutes November 6, 2023 A motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Bowers, to go into Executive Session under authority of Section 5.40(a) of the Council Rules of Procedure to consider the appointment, employment, dismissal, discipline, promotion, demotion, or compensation of a public employee or official. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 7- Angelou, Bowers, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver President Renner announced that Council would meet in the Law Library for executive session with no action to follow. Council rose to report to executive session at 7:46 p.m. Council rose to report from executive session at 7:52 p.m. with no further action. K. ADJOURNMENT: With no further business before the Council, President Renner adjourned the meeting at 7:52 p.m. Jeremy A. VanMeter Clerk of Council APPROVED by the City Council, this day of 2023. Stephen A. Renner City of Gahanna Page 10