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, October 21, 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, October 21, 2024, in Council Chambers. President of Council Merisa K. Bowers called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Vice President of Council Trenton I. Weaver delivered an Invocation. Gahanna Division of Police Sergeants Reuben Hendon and Kaylea Pertz led members in the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda was published on October 18, 2024. Present 6 - Merisa K. Bowers, Jamille Jones, Nancy R. McGregor, Kaylee Padova, Michael Schnetzer, and Trenton I. Weaver Absent 1 - Stephen A. Renner B. ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS TO THE AGENDA: None. C. PRESENTATIONS: 1. Swearing-in & Promotion Ceremony - Division of Police Officer Bobby Logan, Sgt. Reuben Hendon and Sgt. Kaylea Pertz Director of Public Safety Tim Becker introduced the City's newest police officer, Bobby Logan, to the Council and those in attendance. Mayor Jadwin administered the oath of office to Officer Logan. Officer Logan was then congratulated with applause from the audience. Director Becker then introduced two newly promoted sergeants, Reuben Hendon and Kaylea Pertz. Mayor Jadwin administered their oaths of office, and both sergeants were met with applause from the audience. Following the ceremony, Director Becker invited Sarah Hendon to pin the badge on Sergeant Hendon. He provided background on Hendon’s career, noting that he is originally from Detroit, Michigan, and graduated from Warren City of Gahanna Page 1 City Council Meeting Minutes October 21, 2024 Mott High School. Hendon earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Defiance College and graduated from the Ohio State Highway Patrol Academy. He also served six years in the United States Marine Corps, reaching the rank of Sergeant. With 21 years of law enforcement experience, including 15 years with the Gahanna Division of Police, Hendon has been a detective for nine years and serves on the SWAT team as a defensive tactics instructor. His career honors include awards for Exceptional Duty, Exceptional Conduct, The Thin Blue Line Citation, and being named Detective of the Year in 2020. Sgt. Hendon is married to Sarah and is a proud father to Alex, Natalie, and Drew. Director Becker then invited Alexander and Brady to pin the badge on Sergeant Pertz. He shared that Pertz is a graduate of Clyde High School and earned a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University. She was a four-year college basketball player and completed her Master’s in Public Safety and Law from American Military University. Pertz served five years in the Army National Guard, attaining the rank of First Lieutenant, and is currently an inactive reserve. She graduated from the Terra Community College Police Academy and has 7.5 years of law enforcement experience, including six years with the Gahanna Division of Police. Pertz currently serves as a Community Liaison Officer and has previously held roles as Officer in Charge, Field Training Officer, and Backup High School Resource Officer. Her recognitions include the Community Service Citation, the 2022 Mayor’s Award, a Life-Saving Citation, two Exceptional Conduct Awards, and the 2023 Medal of Honor. Sgt. Pertz is married to Tim and is the mother of Alexander and Brady. Director Becker expressed his excitement for the addition of the new officer and the promotion of the two sergeants, expressing gratitude to those who attended in support. He then invited Mayor Jadwin to share her comments. Mayor Jadwin congratulated Sergeants Hendon and Pertz on their well-earned promotions, highlighting the competitiveness of the selection process. She commended both sergeants for their dedication to the Gahanna Division of Police, their commitment to their fellow officers, and their service to the residents of Gahanna. She expressed confidence in their ability to contribute positively to the strong leadership team within the department. President Bowers then transitioned the meeting to the resolution presentation, indicating that there would be a single round of remarks to cover both the First Responders Day resolution and the evening’s swearing-in and promotion ceremony. Chief Spence took a moment to express his appreciation for the opportunity to promote two new sergeants, noting that promotions are rare for an agency of Gahanna’s size. He emphasized the significance of expanding the supervisory ranks and highlighted the positive direction the department is heading. Chief Spence acknowledged the hard work that went into the promotion process, thanking the Human Resources (HR) team, HR Manager Ben Nolan, PRADCO, and members of the oral board, including Sergeant Phil Stacy, for their efforts. He also thanked the Fraternal Order of Police City of Gahanna Page 2 City Council Meeting Minutes October 21, 2024 (FOP) members for their involvement. Finally, Chief Spence welcomed Bobby Logan to the department, noting that he excelled during his seven months at the Westerville Police Academy and expressing the Department's gratitude for having him join the team. President of Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge 9, Brian Steel, addressed the Council, expressing pride in representing the 4,500 Central Ohio law enforcement officers across 29 agencies, including Gahanna. He emphasized that Gahanna is one of the best agencies they represent, attributing this to the high quality of the officers hired and the strong support provided by the City’s leadership. He noted that the unwavering backing from the Council, Mayor, and City management contributes to the officers' commitment to serving their community. Steel offered heartfelt thanks for the Council’s continued support and reminded the officers in attendance to stay safe. Director Becker added his own thanks, explaining that over a year ago, Chief Spence, Deputy Chief Lawless, and the executive team began discussing the need to expand the Department’s supervisory ranks to enhance oversight and coverage for the community. He acknowledged the Council’s role in approving these positions, which have now materialized as the two newly promoted sergeants. Becker expressed his confidence in their leadership and thanked everyone present, concluding the evening’s ceremony with a final round of applause. 2. Joint Resolution & Proclamation Presentation - Council & Mayor Honoring First Responders Day, October 28, 2024 Gahanna Division of Police & Mifflin Township Fire Department President Bowers introduced the second presentation of the evening, a joint resolution and proclamation honoring First Responders Day, observed annually on October 28. This initiative was a collaborative effort between the Council and Mayor Jadwin’s office. In attendance were members of the Gahanna Division of Police, Mifflin Township Fire Department, and Mifflin Township Police, including Officer Cortez representing his department. Bowers also recognized Mifflin Township Fire Chief Brian Dunlevy, Township Trustees Kevin Cavener, Richard Angelou, and Jamie Leeseberg. President Bowers emphasized that the resolution paid tribute to the brave individuals in law enforcement, fire, rescue, EMS, emergency management, and public works who serve the community with courage, integrity, and sacrifice. She noted that Gahanna’s First Responders exemplify the values of 21st-century policing and provide essential services to residents facing crises. Bowers encouraged residents to express gratitude to these first responders throughout the week and underscored the City’s commitment to supporting resources, wellness programs, and training for these essential workers. Mayor Jadwin echoed the Council’s sentiments, reflecting on her five years of working closely with the City’s first responders. She shared her respect for their commitment to facing unpredictable challenges and their willingness to put their lives at risk. Jadwin expressed deep gratitude to the first responders and their families, acknowledging the sacrifices they make daily. City of Gahanna Page 3 City Council Meeting Minutes October 21, 2024 Councilmember Jones offered congratulations to the newly promoted sergeants and welcomed Officer Logan to the Gahanna Division of Police. She expressed appreciation for the first responders’ service and sacrifice. Councilmember Schnetzer thanked the new officer, sergeants, and all first responders, noting the privilege of being part of the resolution that honors their everyday dedication. Councilmember McGregor expressed her gratitude, recognizing the value of having such dependable first responders in times of need. Councilmember Padova reiterated thanks to the first responders, acknowledging their tireless service day and night. Vice President Weaver congratulated the newly promoted sergeants and Officer Logan, noting that his brother-in-law, a Columbus firefighter, often shares stories of the risks that come with the job. Weaver extended appreciation to the families of first responders and recognized the Mifflin Township Trustees for attending. President Bowers then expressed thanks to the Council and other officials for their participation in the evening’s ceremonies, recognizing the coordination by Director Becker, Chief Spence, and Mayor Jadwin. She welcomed Mifflin Township Fire Chief Brian Dunlevy to provide an update on fire operations. Chief Dunlevy thanked the Council and Mayor on behalf of the Mifflin Township Fire Department and Trustees, noting the honor of being part of the First Responders Day recognition. He shared that the department operates four stations, including three within Gahanna’s city limits and one in the unincorporated area, staffed by 82 emergency responders and 14 EMS dispatchers. Dunlevy highlighted that all personnel are trained paramedics, enabling fire trucks to deliver paramedic-level care in emergencies when a transport vehicle is not immediately available. He shared that the department was on track for 10,000 to 11,000 emergency service calls this year, one of the highest volumes among suburban departments in Franklin County. He invited residents to visit their stations, which are open 24/7, and mentioned the Department’s emphasis on community service and public safety. Dunlevy concluded by expressing appreciation for the strong working relationship between Mifflin Township and Gahanna’s public safety departments and other City departments, citing ongoing training and collaboration as key to effective service. Councilmember Schnetzer thanked Chief Dunlevy for reinstating the fire department updates and shared a personal memory of taking his sons to Station 133, which he noted his children fondly remember as “Firefighter Frankie’s” station. D. HEARING OF VISITORS: City of Gahanna Page 4 City Council Meeting Minutes October 21, 2024 None. E. CONSENT AGENDA: 1. Minutes - To Approve: 2024-0197 Council Regular Minutes 10.07.2024 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2024-0198 Committee of the Whole Minutes 10.14.2024 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2024-0199 Finance Committee Minutes 10.14.2024 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2. Resolutions: RES-0036-2024 A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE AMOUNTS AND RATES AS DETERMINED BY THE BUDGET COMMISSION AND AUTHORIZING THE NECESSARY TAX LEVIES AND CERTIFYING THEM TO THE COUNTY AUDITOR The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda. End of Consent Agenda A motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Weaver, to Pass the Consent Agenda. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Schnetzer and Weaver Absent: 1- Renner F. RESOLUTIONS: RES-0037-2024 A JOINT RESOLUTION AND PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING OCTOBER 28, 2024, AS "HONORING FIRST RESPONDERS DAY" IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA A motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Padova, that the Resolution be Adopted. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Schnetzer and Weaver Absent: 1- Renner City of Gahanna Page 5 City Council Meeting Minutes October 21, 2024 RES-0038-2024 A JOINT RESOLUTION AND PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING OCTOBER 2024, AS "DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH" IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA President Bowers expressed appreciation to the Council office staff and Mayor’s office staff for their collaborative work on the joint resolution and proclamation regarding domestic violence awareness. She emphasized the importance of this issue, noting that while a formal presentation was not scheduled for the evening, efforts were underway to identify resources and content that would raise awareness about domestic violence and provide information on available resources for victims. A motion was made by Jones, seconded by Schnetzer, that the Resolution be Adopted. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Schnetzer and Weaver Absent: 1- Renner G. ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION / FIRST READING: ORD-0063-2024 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS - TIF Fund (2240) Contract Services and Bond Retirement Fund (4310) Professional Services President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. H. ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION / FIRST READING, WAIVER, AND EMERGENCY ADOPTION: ORD-0064-2024 AN ORDINANCE WAIVING COMPETITIVE BIDDING FOR RENTAL OF A TEMPORARY BOILER SYSTEM FOR THE CITY OF GAHANNA AND GAHANNA-JEFFERSON PUBLIC SCHOOLS' FLEET AND TRANSPORTATION FACILITY; AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO CONTRACT WITH WARE, INC FOR PROVISION OF TEMPORARY BOILER SERVICES; WAIVING SECOND READING; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. President Bowers noted that this item was being presented as an emergency item and had not gone through the usual Committee of the Whole process. She invited Senior Director of Operations Kevin Schultz to provide background and details on the request. Director Schultz explained that the item involved emergency procurement, which required a waiver of the competitive bidding process typically mandated for purchases over $75,000. He provided context, explaining that in 1996, the City of Gahanna and the Gahanna-Jefferson School District entered into an agreement to jointly build and operate a vehicle maintenance facility at 785 Science Boulevard. This facility, known as the fleet facility and bus garage, has been co-operated since then, with maintenance costs split between the City of Gahanna Page 6 City Council Meeting Minutes October 21, 2024 City and the School District. Recently, the school district identified a significant issue with the facility’s boiler, which was determined to need full replacement due to extensive repairs. The District approached the City last Thursday to inform them of the issue, emphasizing that a long wait time for the replacement boiler would necessitate a temporary solution to provide heat to the facility. Schultz noted that temperatures in the facility had already dropped to 30 degrees, underscoring the urgency of the matter. The school district requested that the City secure the temporary boiler on an emergency basis, with an agreement that the district would handle the installation of the permanent boiler. Director Schultz reported that two quotes were received, with the proposal presented to Council anticipated to cost up to $105,000, covering a three-month rental, installation, and eventual removal when the permanent solution is in place. Schultz concluded by requesting an exception to the formal bidding process under Gahanna code 133.02(c)(6) to expedite this emergency procurement, highlighting the importance of maintaining facility operations to preserve community health, safety, and welfare. President Bowers thanked Director Schultz sought clarification on the 1996 agreement, confirming with Schultz that the intention was for the City and the School District to co-occupy the facility, which continues to be the case. A motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Jones, that the Ordinance be Waived for Second Reading. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Schnetzer and Weaver Absent: 1- Renner Councilmember Schnetzer commented that, while the request for emergency procurement was unusual, the circumstances warranted it. He emphasized the importance of maintaining public health, safety, and welfare, noting the potential for further expenses if the building temperature were to fall below freezing, which could lead to issues like burst pipes. Schnetzer concluded that the request appeared reasonable given the current circumstances. A motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Jones, that the Ordinance be Adopted as an Emergency. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Schnetzer and Weaver Absent: 1- Renner I. CORRESPONDENCE AND ACTIONS: 1. Clerk - None. 2. Council President Bowers shared a piece of correspondence she received as a voicemail from Amy Densborn, Outreach Programs Administrator for SWACO. Ms. Densborn had addressed community concerns regarding metal recycling, highlighting that Rumpke recently built a state-of-the-art recycling facility, which is available for public tours. She noted that this facility City of Gahanna Page 7 City Council Meeting Minutes October 21, 2024 has a 99.2% capture rate for recycling materials placed in recycling bins, meaning most collected materials are successfully processed and sold for reuse, such as for manufacturing bicycle parts in Dayton. Bowers mentioned that the recycling bins used by residents, which are picked up by Local Waste, accept aluminum and steel cans, canisters, and metal screw-top lids, which can all be compressed into cans for recycling. She encouraged residents with further questions to visit recycleright.org or SWACO.com to access recycling FAQs. J. REPRESENTATIVES: 1. Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) - Renner, Weaver Vice President Weaver mentioned that the last CIC meeting took place on October 15, 2024. He was not able to attend this meeting but noted that Councilmember Renner had attended this CIC meeting but was not available this evening to provide an update. Weaver reported on some updates from the September CIC meeting. While some were now outdated, a few key highlights remained relevant. He noted that during the September CIC meeting, updates were received from various departments, including the Mayor's Office, the Department of Planning, and the Department of Development. Weaver enthusiastically shared that the Taylor Station and Claycraft Road roundabout had reopened ahead of schedule and under budget. Additionally, he announced that the City had welcomed a new planning manager, and the CIC board was actively reaching out to potential candidates to fill a vacancy after Mr. Fox’s departure. The next CIC meeting was scheduled for November 19, 2024. 2. Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) - Weaver 2024-0202 Councilmember Weaver's MORPC Report to City Council 10.21.2024 Vice President Weaver expressed gratitude to the Clerk's Office for their assistance with the MORPC report included in the meeting agenda. He highlighted the upcoming Summit on Sustainability scheduled for October 29, 2024, noting that tickets had sold out. Weaver mentioned that, to his knowledge, neither the City nor the Council Office had any additional seats available. 3. Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) - Padova Councilmember Padova announced that the Holiday Lights Celebration would take place on November 24, 2024, from 3:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Creekside. Volunteers are needed to assist with setup, teardown, and event operations during those hours. Padova encouraged anyone interested in volunteering to visit the "Visit Gahanna" website for more information. 4. School Board (SB) - Jones City of Gahanna Page 8 City Council Meeting Minutes October 21, 2024 Councilmember Jones highlighted recent achievements in the school district, including Duane Wilson's selection as a National Merit semi-finalist, placing him in the top 1% of seniors nationally who took the PSAT. Jones noted that Wilson will now have the opportunity to compete further in the National Merit program. Additionally, 16 high school students received national board recognition for academic excellence, honoring achievements among African-American, Latino, Indigenous, rural, and other underrepresented student groups. Jones also reminded everyone that October is Principal Appreciation Month, encouraging the community to show gratitude for the leadership principals provide. Lastly, Jones mentioned the recent school board meeting, which featured a presentation by Franklin County Children’s Services on its community impact and partnership with the school district. She urged residents to view the recording, which includes information about an upcoming levy on the November ballot. She also promoted the district's monthly newsletter, available to all residents via sign-up on the district’s website, as a valuable resource for school-related updates. K. OFFICIAL REPORTS: 1. Mayor Mayor Jadwin reported on the recent ribbon-cutting ceremony at Sunpoint Park, celebrating a new communication panel installation. This project, aimed at fostering inclusivity in Gahanna’s parks, was a collaborative effort between the City of Gahanna, Gahanna Jefferson Public Schools, the Gahanna Parks and Recreation Foundation, and the Gahanna Jefferson Education Foundation. Special Education Coordinator Missy Grimmett initially proposed the idea, inspired by similar panels she had seen at the Columbus Zoo. Working with City staff, the project took shape, and now individuals with communication differences will find it easier to enjoy the parks. Mayor Jadwin shared her observations from the event, noting the immediate interest and excitement of children using the panel. Additional panels are planned for Woodside Green Park, Hannah Park, and Friendship Park, with future expansions anticipated. Mayor Jadwin also addressed concerns about the proposed Action Sports Park at Lower McCorkle Park. Following a recent meeting in which residents voiced their opposition, the decision was made to cease pursuing this location for any action sports park development. However, the city will continue working with OHM, the consulting firm engaged for this project, to assess community needs for recreational amenities and action sports features elsewhere. A community meeting is still planned but may occur later than initially anticipated due to other scheduling commitments. Mayor Jadwin also reminded residents of several upcoming events, including as follows: 1) Electric Aggregation Town Halls on October 22, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, where residents can learn about Gahanna Energy Plus and review FAQs. Residents are encouraged to City of Gahanna Page 9 City Council Meeting Minutes October 21, 2024 bring their electric bills for comparison purposes. 2) QPR Training on October 29, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., in partnership with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation, with limited spots still available. 3) Jeff Speck Event on October 30, 2024 at The Menlo at Franklin Peak, featuring Jeff Speck, a global advocate and author on walkable communities. Registration is encouraged, as over 100 people have already registered. These events and additional information can be found on the City's website at Gahanna.gov. 2. City Attorney City Attorney Tamilarasan provided an update on the ongoing appeal involving Speed Way Towing. She noted that there are both federal and state components to the case, with the state case scheduled for oral argument the following morning. Tamilarasan will be participating in this argument alongside outside counsel Frank Reed from Frost Brown Todd, and she anticipates providing an update once a decision is reached. L. COUNCIL COMMENT: Councilmember Jones expressed appreciation to Mayor Jadwin, Senior Director Schultz, and Director Ferrell for their decision regarding Lower McCorkle Park as referenced in her report. She acknowledged the difficulty of the decision and noted that it is appreciated by the community. President Bowers expressed her gratitude to the Make Gahanna Yours volunteers and everyone who participated in the recent fall litter cleanup event. She also congratulated school board member Daphne Moehring for winning the Blue Ribbon in the chili cook-off benefiting GRIN. Bowers referenced her attached Councilmember report for September, noting her appreciation for community engagement in various events. She highlighted recent data from a report by the Ohio Department of Public Safety, shared through a podcast, showing a significant decrease in motor vehicle crashes following a year of stricter distracted driving enforcement across Ohio. Bowers emphasized the decrease in crashes and fatalities, noting a reduction of approximately 1,100 distracted driving crashes and nearly 15,400 fewer total motor vehicle crashes from October 2023 to October 2024 compared to the previous year. Fatal crashes attributed to distracted driving also dropped by nearly 20%, resulting in 138 fewer fatalities. She thanked law enforcement and first responders for their role in this improvement, recognizing the difficulty of enforcing distracted driving laws but highlighting the real impact these efforts have on saving lives. Finally, Bowers acknowledged the start of budget season, extending her appreciation to all city departments, including directors, senior directors, HR, and the finance team, for their hard work and preparation. She looked forward to collaborative discussions and a productive budget cycle, crediting earlier efforts, such as the CIP and staffing study, for positioning the Council well for the evaluations ahead. She also thanked Mayor Jadwin for her earlier email outlining the City of Gahanna Page 10 City Council Meeting Minutes October 21, 2024 budget process. 2024-0203 Councilmember Merisa K. Bowers' Constituent Report - September 2024 M. EXECUTIVE SESSION: A motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Weaver, to go into Executive Session under authority of Section 5.40(a) of the Council Rules of Procedure to consider the appointment of a public employee or official and Section 5.40(d) of the Council Rules of Procedure to prepare for, conducting, or reviewing negotiations or bargaining sessions with public employees concerning their compensation or other terms and conditions of their employment. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Schnetzer and Weaver Absent: 1- Renner President Bowers announced that Council would meet in the Committee Room for the Executive Session. Mayor Jadwin and Senior Director of Administrative Services Miranda Vollmer were invited to attend part of the Executive Session. Council rose to report to Executive Session at 7:59 p.m. Mayor Jadwin and Senior Director Vollmer exited the Executive Session at 8:13 p.m. Council rose to report from Executive Session at 8:24 p.m. N. ADJOURNMENT: With no further business before the Council, President Bowers adjourned the meeting at 8:24 p.m. Jeremy A. VanMeter Clerk of Council City of Gahanna Page 11 City Council Meeting Minutes October 21, 2024 APPROVED by the City Council, this day of 2024. Merisa K. Bowers City of Gahanna Page 12