City Council

200 South Hamilton Road City of Gahanna Gahanna, Ohio 43230 Meeting Minutes City Council Merisa K. Bowers, President Trenton I. Weaver, Vice President Jamille Jones Nancy R. McGregor Kaylee Padova Stephen A. Renner Michael Schnetzer Jeremy A. VanMeter, Clerk of Council Monday, August 19, 2024 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, August 19, 2024, in Council Chambers. President of Council Merisa K. Bowers called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. Vice President of Council Trenton I. Weaver delivered an Invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda for this meeting was published on August 16, 2024. Present 6 - Merisa K. Bowers, Nancy R. McGregor, Kaylee Padova, Stephen A. Renner, Michael Schnetzer, and Trenton I. Weaver Absent 1 - Jamille Jones B. ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS TO THE AGENDA: Council President Bowers noted there would be no Proclamation delivered by Mayor Jadwin. C. HEARING OF VISITORS: Tim McClurg, 935 Leaflock Ct. Mr. McClurg expressed his appreciation to those involved in the recent approval of a Sheetz gas station. He felt the location on Tech Center drive was more appropriate than a previously-proposed location. He also expressed curiosity about what would happen to the former site of the restaurant Coaches, where a Sheetz location was turned down. Mr. McClurg also appreciated those involved in creating two new groups: the Steering Committee and the Gahanna Citizens Academy, which offer residents new opportunities to engage with the local government. Additionally, Mr. MrClurg expressed a desire for more transparency regarding the new building on Tech Center Drive. He hoped he could be directed to information on the building construction that has been posted City of Gahanna Page 1 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 online. D. PUBLIC HEARINGS: ORD-0047-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF GAHANNA ADOPTED BY ORDINANCE 0007-2024 ON APRIL 1, 2024; CHANGING THE ZONING DISTRICT OF 2.58 +/- ACRES OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT 5061 SHAGBARK RD; PARCEL ID 027-000117; CURRENT ZONING ER (FORMERLY ER-2); PROPOSED ZONING L-R-4 (FORMERLY L-MFRD); HC SHAGBARK REAL ESTATE LLC; CHRISTOPHER CHRISTOFF, APPLICANT President Bowers noted the rules of the public hearing as follows: Pursuant to Council Rules 9.10 & 9.11: The President of Council shall give a brief statement or explanation of the item under hearing. Prior to the opening of the public hearing, the administration may make a presentation of slides, videos, photos, staff comments, or combination thereof, regarding the application in question.The public hearing shall be opened with any applicant, or their representative, to make a presentation or comment on the application (for items recommended by Planning Commission) for up to 10 minutes. Public comment will be opened with 3 minutes allowed per speaker. Speakers must complete a speaker slip and come to the podium when called and state their name and address for the record. Additional time, if needed, may be requested and permission is at the discretion of the President of Council. Director of Planning Michael Blackford provided a summary of the rezoning application. If approved, the rezoning will permit strictly a multi-family use for this site. Since there is a limited overlay, density is limited to 14 units, which is about 5.5 units per acre. The restriction is self imposed and is less than what zoning code would allow by right. There are additional items under administrative review. Some items require public hearing and would go before Planning Commission. In particular, items like site layout, building design, and site layout would be considered here. Items that fall under administrative review by Engineering include traffic, easements, utilities, and drainage. The discussion tonight focuses on the rezoning allowing multi-family use with a limitation of 14 units. President Bowers opened the public hearing for public comment. Matthew Cull, representative for the applicant, requested to reserve his opportunity to speak for 10 minutes until after the public comment portion. City of Gahanna Page 2 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 Michael Phelps, 1186 Sanctuary Place, shared with Council that he is not opposed to development. However, he does want to ensure it is a beneficial, cohesive development. He said that Woods at Shagbark is just over 21 acres and is insured at $40 million. He believed this put the association near the top percent of residential land values in Gahanna. He expressed concern about development being a detriment to the property values and tax income of the Woods at Shagbark. His second concern dealt with the private roadway owned by Woods at Shagbark. There was an easement created through Valvoline, which he stated will be made void by the approval of the rezoning. Mr. Phelps stated that per stipulations of the easement, only six single family homes, townhomes, or condominiums. Instead, there are 14 proposed for the new site if it is rezoned. The road on Hamilton prevents left turns to exit. Lastly, Mr. Phelps stated there is a small wetlands area in the northwest corner of the parcel that drains toward the Woods at Shagbark. He expressed concern about additional impervious surface pushing water toward their neighborhood. George Mrus, 1217 Sanctuary Place, expressed that he and his wife have lived in the Woods at Shagbark for over 18 years. Shagbark is a 118 unit community. He noted the high tax value of the community, of which 60% is contributed to the school district. He added that multiple students are likely supported through these tax dollars. He expressed hope that the new development would have a similar value. He shared four points he hoped Council would consider. First, the proposed development has one right ingress at Shagbark Road and one right egress at Hamilton Road. He questioned how the developer would address this issue, considering the limitations of the easement. Second, he stated that construction vehicles will compromise the structural integrity and curb appeal of Shagbark's primary entry point. Third, he felt that traffic flow issues will negatively impact the community and wondered how the developer would address this issue. Finally, he noted that the demand for housing in the area is high and appreciated that this development could add to that inventory. However, Mr. Mrus asked that Council request more specific information from the developer to answer the aforementioned questions. He expressed appreciation to Council for allowing him to speak on the issue. Jane Miller, 1198 Sanctuary Place. Mrs. Miller introduced herself as a resident at the Woods at Shagbark, along with her husband, Bill Miller. She stated she is a retired attorney and her husband is a retired architect. Her background includes 25 years of legal and regulatory law fields including environmental law, work with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Attorney General's Office, and the Public City of Gahanna Page 3 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 Utilities Commission of Ohio, as well as teaching at Ohio University. She specifically wanted to speak on the overlay text. She stated it was asked for as late as May 6, 2024, after the zoning code update. Mrs. Miller also added that she, like other Woods at Shagbark residents, is not opposed to development on the land. However, she wants it to be developed properly for the health and safety of the community. She specifically mentioned the Gahanna City Code section 1103.19 - Limited Overlay District (f) - Development Standards, which states that Limited Overlay Standards shall be: fair, protecting the legal rights for those affected; understandable for those in the marketplace; and simple for effective interpretation and enforcement by the City. She has reviewed the matter over the last few months including watching the Planning Commission meeting and preparing material for her husband to share. They are very concerned about the project. She expressed particular concern over storm water management and erosion and sediment control. She stated that the City paid to build a retention basin east of Giant Eagle and west of the Woods at Shagbark to deal with stormwater, flooding, and erosion caused by Hickory Run Creek. Additionally, she pointed to potential catastrophes that would require emergency response vehicles to enter the site. She wondered how fire trucks and other vehicles would enter the site in the event of an emergency, and also noted the proximity to auto repair buildings that have different types of fluids that are flammable. She stated the traffic situation needs to be addressed. Bill Miller, 1198 Sanctuary Place, introduced himself as a retired architect. He passed out a packet for Council's review, which concerns zoning and overlay restrictions. He noted Exhibit C, which Mr. Miller states shows the buildable area as .9 acres. An area highlighted in pink shows a steep incline with a drop of 20 feet. Exhibit E shows the proposed building site locations along with the egress location that runs along the Valvoline sites. Mr. Miller stated that one of the buildings proposed is situated on the slope and will require a considerable amount of retaining wall. Mr. Miller requested that the approval of the zoning change be delayed until certain documents are submitted to and reviewed by Planning staff. These include a written and definitive description of how the site access and circulation works to provide adequate access to Hamilton Road, with a copy of any recorded easement changes and a signed approval by Valvoline. Second, the group would like a revised conceptual site plan detailing locations of buildings based on actual site conditions, grades, access points, and other applicable conditions. Matthew Cull, 207 N. Fourth St., Columbus. Mr. Cull is legal counsel on the project. He felt that this particular venue was not appropriate to discuss the items brought up by the residents. He stated the applicant will City of Gahanna Page 4 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 spend thousands of dollars on engineering, storm water, and drainage, but it will not happen until the zoning change is approved. Mr. Cull states the zoning is reasonable, fits with the environment, and has less impact than what the current zoning calls for. The exact layout of the units will adjust when other components of the project are carried out, such as engineering and stormwater. He also added there are two vehicle access points, which are on Shagbark Road and through the Valvoline. They are negotiating a revised easement with Valvoline. He stated they would make an effort to be good neighbors and noted they have a copy of the requests made by the Woods at Shagbark association. President Bowers closed the public hearing and noted that the item will be discussed and voted on by Council under section H on the agenda. E. CONSENT AGENDA: 1. Minutes - To Approve: 2024-0153 Council Special Minutes 8.5.2024 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2024-0154 Council Regular Minutes 8.5.2024 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2024-0156 Committee of the Whole Minutes 8.12.2024 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2024-0157 Finance Committee Minutes 8.12.2024 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2. Resolutions: RES-0031-2024 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO APPLY FOR ALTERNATIVE FUNDING THROUGH THE MID-OHIO REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION (MORPC) ATTRIBUTABLE FUNDS FOR THE BIG WALNUT TRAIL - SECTION 8 The resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda. End of Consent Agenda A motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Weaver, that the Consent Agenda be passed. The motion carried by the following vote: City of Gahanna Page 5 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 Yes: 6- Bowers, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver Absent: 1- Jones F. ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION / FIRST READING: ORD-0049-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA 2023-2027 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN AS ADOPTED BY ORD-0060-2023 AND SUBSEQUENTLY AMENDED BY ORD-0024-2024 President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and read it by title. ORD-0051-2024 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO A PURCHASE AGREEMENT WITH VALUE RECOVERY GROUP II, LLC, FOR PROPERTY LOCATED ADJACENT TO 825 TECH CENTER DRIVE; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and read it by title. G. ORDINANCES FOR SECOND READING / ADOPTION: ORD-0047-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF GAHANNA ADOPTED BY ORDINANCE 0007-2024 ON APRIL 1, 2024; CHANGING THE ZONING DISTRICT OF 2.58 +/- ACRES OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT 5061 SHAGBARK RD; PARCEL ID 027-000117; CURRENT ZONING ER (FORMERLY ER-2); PROPOSED ZONING L-R-4 (FORMERLY L-MFRD); HC SHAGBARK REAL ESTATE LLC; CHRISTOPHER CHRISTOFF, APPLICANT Councilmember Renner appreciated that this proposal includes single family homes that can be purchased. He directed a question to Director Blackford. He said there is .9 acres of area that is basically flat, and wondered if zoning proposed in any way restricts the developer from building on the slope. Director Blackford replied that it would not restrict building on the slope; however, the project is not at the construction phase yet, which is when that issue would be addressed. It would be atypical to have that level of detail at the current phase. Mr. Renner then clarified that it would not be normal to impose restrictions in the zoning language. Mr. Blackford confirmed. Mr. Renner noted that he is fine with the zoning but does have some concerns about the environmental aspects. Vice President Weaver expressed his interest in a refresher on what was appropriate for Council to consider during this discussion and what was appropriate for discussion at a Planning Commission meeting during later stages of the project. Director Blackford said there six different criterion to consider for a rezoning. They are: consistency with the goals City of Gahanna Page 6 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 of the Land Use Plan; physical compatibility of the property with the allowed uses; availability of sites elsewhere zoned for the same proposed use; compatibility of all proposed uses; capacity of infrastructure; apparent demand for permitted uses. He stated that, anecdotally, information requests for multi-family residences likely outweigh all other requests combined. Councilmember Schnetzer stated his appreciation for the clarity on what Council will be approving. He noted that the owner/developer initiated the rezoning request. Mr. Schnetzer added that Council does not approve the design, layout, colors, and other elements of a specific project. He said they are evaluating what should be permitted. He felt that the request for zoning is consistent with other development in the area and felt other zonings, such as Commercial, would not be appropriate for the area. He asked Director Blackford whether the easement at Valvoline would in fact be terminated if this project is developed. Mr. Cull stated that the easement is presently limited to six single family homes and negotiations are taking place for an increase. He stated that while it is not a City issue, if the easement is not changed, they will risk a lawsuit by building 14 residences. He stated that there is an updated version that has yet to be signed. Right now, the easement is two-way. With 14 units, the proposed change is to make it a one way. Mr. Schnetzer asked, if the easement does not exist, would the project be viable. Mr. Cull felt it would be viable, but not necessarily as marketable to the prospective residents of the 14 units. Therefore, he felt it was critical. However, the developer is confident the easement will be revised and meet the needs of the project. Director Blackford noted that there would be discussion about the access concerns if the rezoning is approved and the developer has additional applications before Planning Commission. He noted that a property cannot be landlocked and must have an access point. If the rezoning is approved, it could move forward with one access point. While two access points is not a code requirement, Planning Commission has the ability to approve with modifications and conditions. Councilmember McGregor agreed that multi-family is an appropriate designation. However, she expressed concerns about the slope, noting there had not been a topographical map presented prior to the one passed out by Mr. Miller. She wondered where the flood way and floodplain were on the site. She also stated that in previous conversations, there was an issue with the sewer brought up. When properties at the front of the Woods at Shagbark site were developed, an owner did not permit a sewer to be run through their property. Mrs. McGregor wondered if the sewer would be completed with this project, stating that a sewer that is gravity based is preferable over a sewer that requires a lift station. Mr. Cull concurred that that point was in his notes City of Gahanna Page 7 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 and Mr. Christoff had no reservations. However, he preferred to refrain from committing fully, as unexpected events could happen to make the sewer installation an impossibility. He added that he is not aware of any reason it could not be completed in the intended manner. Councilmember Padova asked Mr. Blackford if, since two entry points are not required per code, the one entry point being referred to was Shagbark Road. Director Blackford understood this to be the case. Mrs. Padova directed a question to Mr. Cull. She wondered if permission has been granted because Shagbark Road is a private road. Mr. Cull said there were about 15 easements showing that there is an easement for Shagbark, and these were submitted to the City. Vice President Weaver wondered what the next steps in the process would be, and where there would be opportunities for public comment moving forward. Director Blackford stated that if the rezoning is successful, additional applications would be filed with the Planning Department. In this case, that would be the Development Plan. It is not administratively approvable and would go to Planning Commission. It would be advertised similarly to the rezoning, and there would be an opportunity for public comment during that time. Mr. Weaver asked Director Blackford when there would be opportunity for conversation regarding ingress, egress, and easements. Mr. Blackford stated the Engineering Department would likely review the easements, and the Planning Commission applications would show the access points. Mr. Weaver asked Mr. Blackford if the rezoning occurs and the project does not proceed, if the rezoning stays in place with the parcel. Mr. Blackford confirmed that the zoning is in effect whether or not the developer proceeds with the project. Mr. Weaver stated his understanding that the Land Use Plan states that commercial development is appropriate for this area. He felt multi family residential was a more appropriate use in this location. Additionally, there is a higher demand for multi family residential and for a variety of housing stock and limited availability in other locations. He felt that, given the circumstances, it would be most appropriate for this parcel to be rezoned to multifamily residential. President Bowers asked Mr. Cull if there was a general price point for the units yet, and the proposed square footage. Mr. Cull stated the estimated square footage is around 2,100 square feet per unit. The price point would be higher than the average condominium in the area. Given that there are 14 units, they will be well priced and will not lower the value of the Woods at Shagbark association. Ms. Bowers asked if there would be an HOA associated with the community, which Mr. Cull confirmed. Ms. Bowers then directed a question toward Director Blackford. She wondered if there was a calculation of the site's capacity for parking and City of Gahanna Page 8 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 structures yet. Mr. Blackford replied this level of analysis had not been done yet, adding that the topography challenges likely make it difficult for commercial development on the property. Commercial sites next to residential sites have greater buffering and setback requirements, which would encroach on the development footprint on this site. There is also a higher parking ration with the current zoning. Ms. Bowers asked if there are any height restrictions on the proposed zoning or limited overlay. Mr. Blackford replied with his belief that the proposed zoning allows for two stories but additional height could be requested with a conditional use application, which would be reviewed in a public Planning Commission meeting. Commercial typically has a higher maximum height than residential. Ms. Bowers stated her appreciation for the residents who came out to speak on the project. A motion was made by Weaver, seconded by Padova, that the Ordinance be Adopted. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Bowers, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver Absent: 1- Jones H. ORDINANCES FOR SECOND READING & EMERGENCY ADOPTION: ORD-0048-2024 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO THE SUSTAINABLE OHIO PUBLIC ENERGY COUNCIL ("SOPEC"), THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF THE AGREEMENT ESTABLISHING SOPEC, AND APPROVING THE BYLAWS OF SOPEC; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY Councilmember Renner stated that this marked an important milestone in the community's sustainable energy journey. He described the process as thoughtful, lengthy, and one in which careful consideration was made to consider the proposal. The primary question was how to offer cheaper options for residents, lower greenhouse gas initiatives, and save on electric bills. He recalled inviting Joe Flarida, CEO of Power a Clean Future Ohio (PCFO), to assist the City in its work. Shortly after, PCFO was hired by the City and helped establish an ambitious goal of reducing greenhouse gasses by 50% by 2030. By June, a recommended path was proposed. Mr. Renner described electrical aggregation as giving residents the opportunity to control their energy choices. It offers competitive rates and access to 100% renewable energy sources. However, he also recognizes needs and concerns, such as ensuring transparency, maintaining reliability, and providing options for those who wish to opt out. He stated that through the process, experts were engaged, community feedback was sought, and benefits and challenges were weighed. He described the decision as the result of months of deliberation and what Council believed was best for the City of Gahanna. Mr. Renner stated that SOPEC has a great track record of serving City of Gahanna Page 9 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 communities and has been successful in pursuing federal grants on behalf of the communities. The decision is about sustainability and having choices. He thanked Joe Flarida, Mayor Jadwin, Senior Director Schultz, and Senior Deputy Director Wybensinger for their assistance in the endeavor. He also thanked Kristy Meyer of Up River Consulting and residents that voiced their opinions and needs. He ended by thanking Council for their questions and discussion, and highlighted President Bowers' assistance in shepherding the ordinance. Mr. Renner stated his support for the ordinance. Councilmember McGregor stated that if the aggregation would provide the lowest price regardless of source, then she would be in favor. However, if it was solely a sustainability initiative, she would not support it. President Bowers reflected on Mr. Renner's comments and felt he covered the issue well. She expressed gratitude to the administration for their help. Senior Director Schultz added a point of clarification. He noted that there is an opt-out option with SOPEC for customers to use a non-renewable source of energy, which would require the participant to call a phone number to make the request. Customers are opted into the 100% renewable option and then may back out if they choose to. Ms. McGregor appreciated the clarification. Vice President Weaver expressed his excitement to see the process move forward, after much discussion over the past year. He wished to state publicly his appreciation to Senior Director Schultz and Senior Deputy Director Wybensinger for their work. He also expressed appreciation to Mr. Renner and felt the community would be better due to this ordinance. Mr. Weaver stated that becoming a member of SOPEC comes with many benefits. Benefits include advocacy efforts at the local, state, and regional level, educational opportunities, access to discounted energy products for the community, and networking with other community leaders, and access to programming and planning services. He expressed his excitement to move forward. Councilmember Padova also expressed her appreciation for the administration's assistance in moving the project forward. She noted there is a cost associated with "brown energy." She referenced the New York Times' The Daily podcast entitled, "The Possible Collapse of the U.S. Home Insurance System" from May 15, 2024, which stated that natural disasters are chipping away at the insurance agencies. In some states, insurance companies are not receiving as much money as they City of Gahanna Page 10 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 are putting out in claims. She noted that many homes in Gahanna have new roofs, which are likely due to recent severe weather events in the area. She believed that while a cheaper option may exist in the moment, residents would end up paying more in different ways in the future. She stated her support for the ordinance and green energy overall. A motion was made by Renner, seconded by Weaver, that the Ordinance be Adopted as an Emergency. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Bowers, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver Absent: 1- Jones I. ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION, WAIVER & ADOPTION: ORD-0050-2024 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS AND WAIVING SECOND READING - Workers' Compensation Fund (9000) Contract Services Motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Renner, to suspend the Rules of Procedure and Waive the Second Reading. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Bowers, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver Absent: 1- Jones A motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Weaver, that the Ordinance be Adopted. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Bowers, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver Absent: 1- Jones J. CORRESPONDENCE AND ACTIONS: 1. Clerk - None. 2. Council - None. K. REPRESENTATIVES: 1. Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) - Renner, Weaver Vice President Weaver reported that the next meeting of the Community Improvement Corporation would be the following day, Tuesday, August 20th at 7:30 a.m. in the Committee Room at City Hall. 2. Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) - Weaver City of Gahanna Page 11 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 2024-0155 Councilmember Weaver's MORPC Report to City Council 8.19.2024 Vice President Weaver highlighted the MORPC monthly commission meeting on August 8th. The next meeting is scheduled for September 12, 2024. Mr. Weaver reported that there are grant opportunities through the Ohio EPA ranging from $10,000 to $300,000 to initiate or expand recycling and litter prevention initiatives. He shared that in his role at the Franklin County Auditor, the grants have supported the shred and e-shred events. "Money Monday" programs are ongoing, though Weaver noted there would not be a Money Monday on September 2nd, in observation of Labor Day. Lastly, the Summit on Sustainability will be held on Tuesday, October 29th at the Hilton in downtown Columbus. 3. Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) - Padova Councilmember Padova provided various updates for the CVB. Midweek at the Creek will continue on Wednesday, August 21st at Creekside Plaza from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The final performances will be August 28th and September 11th. The spring and summer herbal cocktail trail is wrapping up at the end of the month and a new passport will be issued on September 1st for fall and winter. The CVB has distributed nearly 1,000 passports over the last six months, and they have been promoted by publications and social media influencers. The holiday lights celebration is being planned for Sunday, November 24th. Anyone interested in being on the event's planning committee can contact Lori Kappes. The Gahanna Area Arts Council will present the Columbus Jazz Orchestra on August 24th at 7:00 p.m., and the Chamber of Commerce's annual Taste of Gahanna event will be held on Sunday, August 25th. 4. School Board (SB) - Jones President Bowers shared that Gahanna Jefferson Public Schools started back the previous week. She shared a reminder that the crosswalk near the Community Congregational Church on Havens Corners Road has been closed, and students should cross at the intersection of Hamilton Road and Havens Corners. Additionally, the first home football game for the Gahanna Lincoln Lions is Friday, August 23rd against Mason. L. OFFICIAL REPORTS: 1. Mayor Mayor Jadwin shared that the Gahanna 175 events were an overwhelming success. Many community members came out to share in the City's history and future. Turnout exceeded expectations. Events City of Gahanna Page 12 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 included Creekside Live, a vintage baseball game, a picnic, and other events. She thanked the 57 local businesses and nonprofits that participated in the events, members of the Gahanna 175 Committee, the Gahanna Historical Society, and the Parks & Recreation Department. She shared a special thanks to Parks and Recreation team members Brian Gill, Chelsea Heppert, and Tyler Wilson. The three groups worked over a year to make the vision a reality. She also shared that Saturday, August 24th is Gahanna History at the Gahanna branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. There will be a representative from the history and genealogy department to assist patrons in scanning their materials. Mayor Jadwin shared that the Muddy Miler occurred on Sunday, August 18th and was a successful event. Additionally, she attended a ribbon cutting for the completion of the latest medical building at the Crescent Central Park. It houses five medical practices and will bring a total of 80 jobs to the community. It is a 47,000 square foot facility with an investment of about $24 million into the community. Mayor Jadwin expressed her appreciation to the physicians and staff who are making that investment and serving the residents of Gahanna. Mayor Jadwin congratulated Council on the passage of the SOPEC membership ordinance. She expressed appreciation for the comments regarding the work of Directors Schultz and Wybensinger. The next step of the process is the presentation of SOPEC's operation and governance plan, which will be coming forward for adoption by Council. They will be sharing information with residents over the coming weeks and months. With school back in session, summer camps are closed and the main Gahanna Swimming Pool is closed. Hunters Ridge Swimming pool will stay open on weekends through Labor Day. Mayor Jadwin expressed appreciation for the 2024 seasonal employees. Most of the positions were filled by May 1st, which enabled the City to hit maximum capacity for its programs. September 8th is the Doggy Dip at Hunter's Ridge Pool. Mayor Jadwin reported than the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is reconstructing the Hamilton Road Bridge and several others around the 270 outerbelt. It is expected to be a year-long project. She expressed that there will be complexities and it will be challenging at times, but encouraged residents to keep an eye out for communications on social media, the City's website, and to sign up for alerts. 2. City Attorney City Attorney Tamilarison reported that there will be a redline of the criminal code sent to Council soon, which she hoped would be on the City of Gahanna Page 13 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 agenda for an upcoming Committee of the Whole meeting. M. COUNCIL COMMENT: Councilmember McGregor shared additional information about the Gahanna History Day at the library. She believed it coincides with the library's 150th anniversary. There will be five short videos showing on a loop, which were created by Tim Courlas. There will also be artifacts on display, a panel discussion on Harry Bauer, and two walks are scheduled for a tour of Olde Gahanna. She encouraged everyone to look at the schedule and attend events of interest. Mrs. McGregor shared information on an app called Life 360. It is a tracking app that can be used by parents of new drivers to give detailed information on how they drive. It can be used as a way to start conversation on safe driving habits. Councilmember Renner offered his appreciation to Mrs. McGregor for mentioning Life 360, as he has a new driver in the house. Mr. Renner thanked his colleagues for their vote on the SOPEC ordinance. He understands there can be some reservations, but expressed his conviction that it is the right thing for the residents of Gahanna. Mr. Renner offered insight on some things coming up in the electrical market. PJM, the regional transmission operator that all generators report to, publicly let their capacity in July. The numbers came in very high, which Renner said is very concerning. Because of this, there are 13 states, including the cost of New England, whose electrical rates are increasing 25%. He said that renewable energy is the most cost effective option, and there is 800 Gigawatts of solar, battery, and wind power in the queue with PJM. They are ready to connect to our transmission. Once it is provided, there will be a serious market change in the renewable energy sector. Mr. Renner also appreciated the community coming out for the rezoning. He felt there is good concern and dialogue with the residents. He feels Council is helping to understand the concerns, while also respecting the process. He felt Mr. Weaver did a good job at reiterating what the process is. He expressed gratitude for living in a community that can discuss matters in such a way. Councilmember Padova thanked the administration, Parks and Recreation, in their planning for the Gahanna 175 events. She mentioned the line dancing and the inflatable birthday cake on display at Creekside. She was impressed by the turnout. She also enjoyed her time at the Muddy Miler and thanked everyone involved in that event. Vice President Weaver echoed expressions of gratitude for the work put into the Gahanna 175 event. He enjoyed the drone show and the vintage baseball game. He also thanked residents who attended the meeting for the rezoning. Many factors need to be considered, such as the City of Gahanna Page 14 City Council Meeting Minutes August 19, 2024 applicant's materials, feedback from staff, as well as from the community. He encouraged the applicant to be proactive in their communication with neighbors. Mr. Weaver ended with a note that there will be a need for poll workers this year and encouraged people to sign up if they were able to. President Bowers said that Hops and Vines, the Parks and Recreation Foundation's annual fundraiser, is scheduled for Saturday, September 7th at Creekside. Additionally, the Foundation's Kyle Miller First Day 5k is Sunday, September 8th. The 5k honors the memory of a Gahanna resident. Additionally, Ms. Bowers shared that Council Office maintains Columbus Metropolitan Club memberships and encouraged Councilmembers to look at the schedule for upcoming events. 2024-0142 Councilmember Jamille Jones' Constituent Report - July-August 2024 N. ADJOURNMENT: With no further business before the Council, President Bowers adjourned the Regular Council Meeting at 8:44 p.m. Sophia McGuire Deputy Clerk of Council APPROVED by the City Council, this day of 2024. Merisa K. Bowers City of Gahanna Page 15