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, November 18, 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, November 18, 2024, in Council Chambers. President of Council Merisa Bowers called the meeting to order at 7:09 p.m. Vice President of Council Trenton I. Weaver delivered an Invocation and led members in the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda for this meeting was published on November 15, 2024. Present 7 - Merisa K. Bowers, Jamille Jones, Nancy R. McGregor, Kaylee Padova, Stephen A. Renner, Michael Schnetzer, and Trenton I. Weaver B. ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS TO THE AGENDA: None. C. PRESENTATIONS: 1. Joint Resolution/Proclamation by Mayor & Council Small Business Saturday Mayor Jadwin introduced the joint resolution/proclamation to officially recognize Small Business Saturday on Saturday, November 30, 2024. The last Council meeting discussed the history of the Small Business Saturday recognition, the goal of which is to promote small businesses within the community. She highlighted that 68 cents for every dollar spent stays within the community. She introduced Mr. Michael Jones of Jones Wear Screen Printing, located on East Johnstown Road. She said his business began 20 years ago in his basement and worked toward building a full-fledged business that helps the community. He started by donated starter jackets and Nike shoes to at-risk, inner-city youth, in an effort to deter theft and violent acts. His passion led him to establishing a brick-and-mortar business, which began in City of Gahanna Page 1 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 New Albany and has been located in Gahanna for eight years. She described Mr. Jones as a leader in his industry. His services include screen printing, embroidery, promotional items, and signage. Councilmember Padova also acknowledged the impact of small businesses on the community. She recalled that Collective Home Supply was honored in May, and that there will be a convergence during the Holiday Lights celebration. There will be a market with about 30 different vendors, all of which are small businesses. She encouraged the community to contribute to the small businesses during this event. Mr. Jones expressed his thanks to City Council and the mayor in highlighting the work of small businesses. Councilmember Jones acknowledged Mr. Jones as well, noting that he produced shirts for her campaign. She appreciated the time she spent engaging with him during her campaign. Vice President Weaver congratulated Mr. Jones for his recognition and success. He stated that small businesses are the backbone of any community and encouraged residents to support them. D. HEARING OF VISITORS: Sharon Montgomery, 572 Bonnington Way. Ms. Montgomery thanked City Council for their joint resolution and proclamation to designated November 17, 2024 as World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims in the City of Gahanna. She wished Ginger Tornes could attend, but Ms. Tornes had to be out of town. Ms. Tornes is the founder of the City of Columbus’ observation of the same day. Ms. Montgomery explained that at an event the day prior, attendees heard from speakers discussing the trauma of being a victim, the trauma of treating a victim, the short- and long-term ways in which roads can be built to reduce the severity of crashes, among other topics. She said they were able to thank first responders for their role in providing care to recovery and survival. Dr. John Marchbanks, former director of Ohio Department of Transportation, was thanked at their event as well. State Representative Beryl Brown Piccolantonio was unable to attend due to another commitment; however, her bill co-sponsor Rep. Mike Skindell was in attendance. He shared his own victim story and shared the efforts of H.B. 490 to make every third Sunday in November Road Traffic Victims Remembrance Day in Ohio. Montgomery expressed her pride in Gahanna’s leadership in their efforts to City of Gahanna Page 2 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 make the roads safer. E. PUBLIC HEARINGS: ORD-0065-2024 AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING APPROPRIATIONS FOR CURRENT EXPENSES AND OTHER EXPENDITURES OF THE CITY OF GAHANNA DURING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025 President Bowers read the rules of procedure for the Public Hearing. Pursuant to Council Rule 9.10 and 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. 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. There was no presentation from the Administration. President Bowers opened the public hearing at 7:21 p.m. Tim McClurg 935 Leaflock Court, Gahanna. Mr. McClurg thanked Council for the opportunity to speak on the 2025 budget. He understands the budget is supposed to be supporting the CIP plan, and expressed that it is difficult for him at times to see the connection between the CIP and the 2025 budget. He was able to attend the walkable Gahanna event and noted it was well-attended. He listed some items he hoped to be considered for the budget. These include a suspension bridge for wheelchairs, golf carts, walkers, scooters to go from Friendship Park to the Big Walnut Trail. He stated it would be a low-cost option to open up more traffic to Friendship Park from the Big Walnut Trail. He also thinks the trail that leads from the playground and runs along the river should be blacktopped to allow for bikes, wheelchairs, strollers, and walkers. He appreciated the concerts in the Park because children can play on the playground while parents enjoy the event. He acknowledged more parking would be needed. He also stated his belief that Creekside Park should be walkable at night, and the waterfalls should be lit with color changing spotlights from a pole. He stated there were lights on the waterfalls before, but they were in the ground and washed away by a flood. He felt a good investment would be to place GPS on City plows to trace where and when a street was plowed and when it’s scheduled to be done. He also weighed in on the extension of the Big Walnut Trail planned to run from Rocky Fork South to Pizzurro Park. First, he believed there should be parking at the Rocky Fork trailhead, so that users of the bike path do not have to park on the street or at the adjacent church. Also, he expressed concern about the path crossing two entrance ramps and one exit ramp to and from I-270. He City of Gahanna Page 3 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 noted Sharon Montgomery’s statements about traffic accidents. He feels having crosswalks with lights is a temporary solution, which will cause traffic backups for those entering I-270. His final comments were regarding the six-week Citizen’s Academy program, which took students through the innerworkings of the City government. He stated the City’s workers love Gahanna and work very hard to ensure the City works. Bob Weishaar, 530 Woodmark Run. Mr. Weishaar said he is one of the co-founders of the 254 Teen Center. He is currently the board chair and executive director. He expressed gratitude for the support the City has provided through the Community Grants Program. From an operating standpoint, 254 Teen Center is not fully financially sustained. Any donations received are vital to covering the mortgage, utilities, supplies, and other regular operating expenses. Little room is left in the budget for substantial improvements. He provided an example in which the teens requested a basketball hoop. The hoop the center first purchased was not a long-term solution. However, this year, thanks to a grant, the center was able to install a concrete slab and install a permanent hoop. He called the installation a remarkable transformation. Additionally, there was a morale boost among staff and leaders to know that the City supported them. Also, as a resident, he voiced his support for community investment in local nonprofits. He added that for-profit businesses may need to spend more in order to achieve the same outcome. He also stated that identifying the needs of the City can be difficult, adding this as a reason it is important to work with local nonprofits. He felt confident as a resident that taxpayer dollars were being used in a way that is beneficial to the community. Carrin Wester, 1132 Riva Ridge Boulevard. Ms. Wester thanked Council for the opportunity to speak on the 2025 budget. She specifically wished to speak to the Community Grant Program. She stated her opposition to funding the program with tax dollars from the General Fund for several reasons. She stated that, most importantly, it was not how voters were told funds would be used in 2019. She stated that in 2019, the City was in a dire financial position. Increasing the tax revenue was vital for Gahanna to continue being a desirable community. At that time, there were 20 years of backlogged maintenance that could not be addressed, including paving public streets, replacing unsafe and outdated public playgrounds, and upkeep of the Creekside District. She stated that crucial services, such as Public Safety, were underfunded. The solution was to raise the income tax rate, which had not changed since 1976. She chaired the 2019 Issue 12 campaign and worked to bolster support for the issue. She stated that the intention was for the extra funding to last 20 years, which was the time needed to catch up, keep up, and move forward on crucial projects. The results of the passage of Issue 12 include tackling the backlog of maintenance, adding programs that improve the community’s vitality, and walkability. She believes more of this is needed. She believes the $100,000 needed to fund the Community Grants Program, which does not include administrative and audit costs, deviates City of Gahanna Page 4 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 from the City’s stated 2019 goal of using funds for public services and brick and mortar needs. She believes it is a dangerous precedent to set. She believes the nonprofits are valuable and shared nonprofits she is involved with. While she believes the desire to fund nonprofits is well-intentioned, she feels there are other mechanisms to do so. One includes the Give to Gahanna campaign. She expressed that in order to maintain in integrity with Issue 12, General Fund dollars should be used for other purposes, such as continuing to catch up on maintenance backlogs. Ms. Wester expressed her appreciation for the work that Council does for the City. Sylvia Kramarius, 332 Jennie Dr. Ms. Kramarius has been a resident of Gahanna for nearly 10 years. She is advocating for balancing fiscal responsibility with providing employees with well-deserved salary increases. She is looking at expenses outpacing revenue, which frustrated her. She stated that the community owes a debt to Council to roll up their sleeves and participate in the discussion. She offered suggestions to Council. One was to use the employee share of premium holiday to defer part of the full seven percent salary increase to 2026. The seven percent salary increase in 2025 totals approximately 2.576 million dollars. The total salary and benefits in 2024 is $36.8 million. She believed this could be reduced by $184,000, which is the total health insurance cost if a 20% benchmark for employee contribution is used. She said the salary increase could be reduced to $2.293 million rather than $2.576 million, moving from a seven percent increase to a 6.5 percent increase. She stated that by doing so, this would help forestall the budget cliff that will be reached in 2029. She said that over the course of the next four years, if the employees do well with health and wellness benchmarks, there is a potential for $376,000 in savings. She noted she wouldn’t add this into the budget forecast. She said it is less than the $2.1 million shortfall anticipated; however, it does provide some relief if other budget maneuvers are pursued. She acknowledged that she just looked at the budget the day prior and noticed some opportunities. She added that she had not considered union contracts in her analysis and disincentives to employees. She felt it was important to do her part in the discussions as a resident. Chris Wagner, 4550 E. Johnstown Road. Mr. Wagner stated he is approaching Council as both the Board Chair for Gahanna Residents in Need (GRIN), and as an educator and resident. He has been an educator in the district for 18 years and a resident for 35. He came to support the request for community grant funding. He shared that GRIN has been a grant recipient twice. First, GRIN was awarded a grant to purchase a freezer to support the need to feed users of the program. Prior to this award, GRIN had to turn away food donations because of lack of storage space. The grant funding allowed GRIN to accept more donations, which in turn serve the community. A second grant allowed for the purchase of lockers. The lockers allow constituents 24-hour pickup at GRIN. Many people work a shift that does not allow them to pick up during normal operating hours, and some have restrictive vehicle situations. The lockers allow patrons to choose their own City of Gahanna Page 5 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 food, as the lockers are temperature controlled. Additionally, it allows the residents to use the services with dignity and respect. He thanked Councilmembers for their time and stated that grant funds are essential for the nonprofit organizations to continue serving the community. President Bowers closed the public hearing at 7:40 p.m. F. CONSENT AGENDA: 1. Minutes - To Approve: 2024-0217 Council Regular Minutes 11.4.2024 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2024-0218 Finance Committee Minutes 11.4.2024 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2024-0219 Council Special Minutes 11.12.2024 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2024-0220 Committee of the Whole Minutes 11.12.2024 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2024-0221 Finance Committee Minutes 11.12.2024 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2. Resolutions: RES-0041-2024 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF FUNDS - Public Safety Contract Services to Public Safety Full Time Wages The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda. RES-0042-2024 A JOINT RESOLUTION AND PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING NOVEMBER 17, 2024, AS "WORLD DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR ROAD TRAFFIC VICTIMS" IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda. RES-0043-2024 A JOINT RESOLUTION AND PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING NOVEMBER 30, 2024 AS "SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY" IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA City of Gahanna Page 6 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda. 3. Ordinances for Second Reading and Emergency Adoption: ORD-0067-2024 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE AN AMENDED AND RESTATED JOINT SELF-INSURANCE AGREEMENT WITH THE CENTRAL OHIO HEALTH CARE CONSORTIUM; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY The clerk read the Ordinance by title. The Ordinance was adopted as an emergency on the Consent Agenda. ORD-0068-2024 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO CONTRACT WITH THE BOARD OF HEALTH OF THE FRANKLIN COUNTY GENERAL HEALTH DISTRICT (FRANKLIN COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH) FOR 2025 PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY The clerk read the Ordinance by title. The Ordinance was adopted as an emergency on the Consent Agenda. 4. Ordinances for Second Reading and Adoption: ORD-0069-2024 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CITY OF GAHANNA CODIFIED ORDINANCES SECTION 505.14 - DANGEROUS AND VICIOUS ANIMALS The clerk read the Ordinance by title. The Ordinance 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: 7- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver G. ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION / FIRST READING: ORD-0070-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1103.08 - MEDIUM LOT RESIDENTIAL (R-2), REVISING ACCESSORY STRUCTURE REAR YARD SET BACK President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0071-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1109.01 - PARKING, ACCESS, AND CIRCULATION, REVISING PARKING SPACE REQUIREMENTS, City of Gahanna Page 7 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 PARKING AREA LANDSCAPING, AND PARKING AREA RESTRICTIONS IN RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICTS President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0072-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1109.02- SETBACKS AND STRUCTURE PLACEMENT, REQUIRING ACCESSORY STRUCTURES TO BE LOCATED ON THE SAME LOT AS THE PRINCIPAL STRUCTURE AND SUBJECTING POOLS TO ACCESSORY STRUCTURE SETBACKS President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0073-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1109.05 - FENCES, CLARIFYING THE LOCATION AND HEIGHT OF FENCES President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0074-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1109.06 - OUTDOOR LIGHTING, CLARIFYING THE APPLICABILITY OF STANDARDS FOR CERTAIN TYPES OF DEVELOPMENT President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0075-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER 1111 - SIGN STANDARDS, REVISING THE COMPREHENSIVE SIGN TABLE, PERMANENT, TEMPORARY, AND GENERAL SIGN STANDARDS, AND MASTER SIGN PLAN REQUIREMENTS President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0076-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1113.01 - FLOODPLAIN REGULATIONS, PROVIDING EXEMPTIONS FROM FILING A FLOODPLAIN USE PERMIT AND CONDITIONS FOR CONTINUATION OF NONCONFORMING USES OF STRUCTURES President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0077-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1117.02 - VARIANCES, ADDING CRITERIA SPECIFIC TO FLOODPLAIN REGULATIONS AND VARIANCE APPROVAL CONDITIONS President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0078-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART City of Gahanna Page 8 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1101.09 - RULES FOR INTERPRETING REGULATIONS, CLARIFYING THROUGH LOT REAR YARDS President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0079-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTIONS 1105.01 - COMPREHENSIVE USE TABLE AND 1105.02 - SPECIFIC USE REGULATIONS, REVISING USES WITHIN THE INNOVATION AND MANUFACTURING DISTRICT AND ALLOWING GROUND MOUNTED RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS WITHIN ALL ZONE DISTRICTS President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0080-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1107.01 - CITY-WIDE DESIGN STANDARDS, CLARIFYING APPLICABILITY TO BUILDINGS AND ALLOWING METAL AS PRIMARY BUILDING MATERIAL President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0081-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1117.07 - DEVELOPMENT PLAN, EXEMPTING ACCESSORY BUILDINGS 200 SQUARE FEET OR LESS FROM THE MINOR DEVELOPMENT PLAN PROCESS President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0082-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTIONS 1121.01 - ENFORCEMENT AND 1121.03 - MAINTENANCE STANDARDS, IMPROVING THE ENFORCEABILITY OF THE ZONING CODE AND CLARIFYING LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0083-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1121.06 - VIOLATIONS, REVISING PENALTIES President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0084-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1123.01 - TERMS A-Z, REVISING DEFINITIONS OF USES AND CLARIFYING ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0085-2024 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS City of Gahanna Page 9 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 - Public Safety Fund for Salaries and Benefits President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0086-2024 AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING UTILITY RATES AND AMENDING GAHANNA CODIFIED ORDINANCES TITLE THREE PUBLIC UTILITIES - CHAPTER 919 WATER AND SEWER INTERNAL REVIEW BOARD, CHAPTER 921 SANITARY SEWER CONNECTIONS AND RENTAL RATES, CHAPTER 927 STORM SEWERS, CHAPTER 929 WATER CONNECTIONS AND RATES, CHAPTER 933 BACKFLOW PREVENTION, AND CHAPTER 941 GARBAGE AND RUBBISH COLLECTION; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0087-2024 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT FOR THE REPAIR AND RESURFACING OF MORSE ROAD President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0089-2024 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND GAHANNA CODIFIED ORDINANCES CHAPTER 151 - PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT, SECTION 151.03 - ADMINISTRATION AND CHAPTER 153 - PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD, SECTION 153.01 - CREATION President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. H. ORDINANCES FOR SECOND READING / ADOPTION: ORD-0066-2024 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AGREEMENT WITH POD DESIGN FOR ACADEMY PARK IMPROVEMENTS Councilmember McGregor stated that overall, the expansion of Academy Park is a good plan; however, she expressed concerns about the parking lot aspect. She stated there is a long history of acquiring parkland in Gahanna, extending back to the development of Friendship Park. When Academy Park was developed, it was promised to residents that there would be no lighted fields. She noted that while the field will not be lighted, the parking lot will be, and the lighted area will be brought closer to residents. She feels there is value in vacant space and that every inch of Academy Park being programmed. She noted the new mountain bike trail, expansion of the shelter area, and new trailhead as examples. She expressed concern about the intersection of sports balls into the parking area and stated that overall she could not support the project for these reasons. Vice President Weaver asked Parks & Recreation Director Stephania Ferrell if it was possible to put a barrier up to mitigate the concern of balls entering the parking lot. Director Ferrell replied that it was possible, and it could be either a natural feature or a man-made feature. City of Gahanna Page 10 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 President Bowers expressed her overall concern for continued hardscaping in the City. She acknowledged that her intent was not to single out this project, and that she is looking forward to the improvements at Academy Park. However, she believes that the small steps taken to improve storm water and parking lot runoff into streams is important. She believes the Parks Department feels similarly and are incredible stewards of the environment. She expressed strong support for environmental features, innovative sustainability features, and she looked forward to learning more about the developmental design of the project. Councilmember McGregor noted that Academy Park is floodplain. She wondered how it could have drainage when it is set to receive the water. Director Ferrell stated that right now, there is no process to receive or retain runoff within the parking lot. The work to be done on the parking lot will help manage it effectively. The engineering has not been done yet, but that will be included in the process moving forward. A motion was made by Padova, seconded by Schnetzer, that the Ordinance be Adopted. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Bowers, Jones, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver No: 1- McGregor I. CORRESPONDENCE AND ACTIONS: 1. Clerk 2024-0230 Ohio Division of Liquor Control Notice to Legislative Authority Permit NEW 65215099010 OHIO SPRINGS INC DBA SHEETZ 725 CRESCENT PL Clerk VanMeter stated that he received an Ohio Division of Liquor Control notice regarding a new permit for Ohio Springs, Inc. doing business as Sheetz 725 Crescent Place. He conferred with the Division of Police, which had no objections to the permit. Per protocol, if Council has no objections, Clerk VanMeter will send notice to the Ohio Division of Liquor Control that a hearing will not be requested. Councilmember McGregor quipped that the location for Sheetz is an excellent one. There were no objections from Council. Clerk VanMeter said that regarding ORD-0089-2024, to adjust the Parks and Recreation Board appointments, he will post public notice on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 to accept applications through December 6, 2024. He stated he will work with President Bowers to schedule special meetings to consider those candidates. Councilmember Schnetzer asked, for clarification, if Council would be receiving applications through December 6, with the objective of filling the positions by January 2, 2025. President Bowers confirmed that to be the case. Councilmember Schnetzer asked if that would be enough time. President Bowers indicated that tentative interview dates would be November 25, December 2, December 9, and December 16, if City of Gahanna Page 11 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 needed. 2. Council 2024-0231 Annual Report to Council - 919.06 Water & Sewer Review Board Hearings 2022 Senior Deputy Director Corey Wybensinger stated that at the previous meeting, he stated that the Water & Sewer Review Board last met in 2023. However, this was incorrect, and the last time the Board met was in 2022. President Bowers asked if a 2021 report had been located. Director Wybensinger stated there have been staffing transitions, and that it may have been reported in a different manner in the past, such as an email to the Clerk of Council. He was uncertain if he would have access to the information but would provide a summary of 2020 and 2021 meetings. There have been no meetings in 2024. He would anticipate reports in 2025. J. REPRESENTATIVES: 1. Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) - Renner, Weaver Councilmember Renner reported there will be a meeting at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, in the Committee Room. 2. Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) - Weaver 2024-0232 Councilmember Weaver's MORPC Report to City Council 11.18.2024 Vice President Weaver thanked Management Analyst Jessica Hilts for her assistance in putting together the report. The Commission met on November 14th. They heard from Steve Steinour, President and CEO of Huntington Bank, who discussed topics including housing, interest rates, and the economic promise of the Central Ohio region. MORPC is adding its 89th and 90th members, which are Alexandria and the City of Marion, respectively. He also acknowledged Director of Engineering Tom Komlanc for his election as Vice Chair of the Transportation Advisory Committee. He congratulated Director Komlanc and thanked him for his service to the community. Vice President Weaver stated the next meeting is on December 12th. He highlighted attachments in the report, such as MORPC return on investment. He also noted two legislative items from the State House. First, Senate Joint Resolution 4 would propose to amend the Ohio Constitution to renew bonding authority for funding public infrastructure improvements. Second, House Bill 257, which would allow certain public bodies to conduct virtual meetings with City of Gahanna Page 12 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 specific policy requirements. MORPC’s Grant of the Month is from the Ohio Department of Transportation. ODOT is focusing on projects that improve walking and biking safety and accessibility. Weaver also shared upcoming meetings. The Sustainable 2050 meeting will be held on December 5th. There is a hybrid option. The focus is on developing sustainable tree canopies. Last, Money Mondays are held every Monday from 1:00 to 1:30 p.m. 3. Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) - Padova Councilmember Padova reported that the Holiday Lights celebration will be held Sunday, November 24th from 3:00 to 6:30 p.m. Attractions include a train ride, food trucks, and the Holiday Lights Market. Gahanna Residents in Need (GRIN) will also have a booth to collect new winter coats for children. The Santa Race is on December 7th. Volunteers can sign up at the Visit Gahanna website. 4. School Board (SB) - Jones Councilmember Jones shared a reminder that there will be a regular school board meeting Wednesday, November 21st, at 6:30 p.m. at Clark Hall. It can be attended in person and online. K. OFFICIAL REPORTS: 1. Mayor Mayor Jadwin thanked residents that attended and spoke on the budget. She reported that in a one-week period there were two ribbon cuttings for significant projects in the City. On November 7th, the ceremony for Orthopedic One was held. She referred to the project as a once in a lifetime economic development project. There has been a $20 million investment, adding more than 200 high-quality, sustainable jobs to the community. She stated the facility opened to patients one year and one day after groundbreaking, noting the collaborative efforts between all parties. The second groundbreaking, held on November 14th, was Rosen USA’s expansion facility. The new 45,000 square foot facility more than triples Rosen USA’s footprint in Gahanna. The business has been in Gahanna for ten years, but is a global company based in Germany. Its only other location in the United States is Houston. Rosen USA anticipates expanding its workforce by 50% over the next few years. Mayor Jadwin cited this project as another one of smart economic development. Mayor Jadwin concluded by sharing that Gahanna was the host of Leadership Ohio’s 2024 graduation celebration, which was held the previous weekend. She attended the ceremony alongside Senior Directors Miranda Vollmer and City of Gahanna Page 13 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 Kevin Schultz. Senior Deputy Director Corey Wybensinger was a member of the class. Leadership Ohio brings together a group of select leaders within the state and helps them to hone and develop their leadership skills to help move their communities forward. Mayor Jadwin noted that budget discussions have included ways in which the City supports the professional development of its staff, and stated this is a great example. 2. City Attorney City Attorney Tamilarasan thanked Council for the passage of ORD-0069-2024. Her next step is to clean up traffic code. L. COUNCIL COMMENT: Councilmember McGregor shared that it was nice to attend the Orthopedic One ribbon cutting ceremony. She reported on the death of Larry Zapp, the Gahanna Historical Society’s Treasurer. Mr. Zapp previously served on the Gahanna Planning Commission and Community Improvement Corporation. She described him as a very active member in the community, adding that he served as a Treasurer for four different historical societies. She extended sympathies to his family. McGregor also extended Thanksgiving wishes and noted that this is a time of need for many people. She suggested donations to GRIN, which will be handing out a lot of food over the holidays. Councilmember Jones thanked the residents who engaged in the budget hearing. She echoed Mrs. McGregor’s comments on it being a season of thanks. She visited GRIN with Councilmembers Bowers and Padova. Staff mentioned the need for extra volunteers, particularly traffic control, because there will be extra giveaways this year. She congratulated Director Wybensinger on his achievement with Leadership Ohio. Councilmember Jones shared an update on plans for a 2025 Juneteenth Celebration. A committee of Gahanna residents has been formed to help plan the event, which will be a collaboration with Visit Gahanna and the Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival. Next steps include securing funding and sponsorships, and a more thorough plan is expected in January with a final plan in March. She thanked Parks & Recreation staff members Chelsea Heppert and Brian Gill, along with Lori Kappes of Visit Gahanna. Councilmember Padova thanked the residents who spoke on the budget. The Gahanna library branch will hold an event on Friday, December 6th from 6:30 City of Gahanna Page 14 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 to 8:30 p.m., which will include crafts, music, stories, and a Santa visit. The event is free and donations for GRIN will be accepted. She also thanked Director Wybensinger on his Leadership Ohio graduation. Councilmember Renner also thanked the residents for their participation in budget discussions. He encouraged them to talk to neighbors who also might be interested in participating. He acknowledged the effort it takes to come to the meeting and speak, but also expressed deep appreciation for residents who engage in the discussion. He echoed his colleagues’ congratulatory sentiments to Director Wybensinger, noting he has enjoyed watching Director Wybensinger grow professionally within Gahanna. Councilmember Schnetzer echoed appreciation of the residents who attended the meeting to share their input during the budget hearing. He recalled the Mayor’s comments on Orthopedic One, agreeing that it was a smart economic decision and expressed gratitude that they chose Gahanna for their location. He wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. He quoted Cicero, stating, “Gratefulness is not only the highest of all virtues but the parent of all the others.” He hoped everyone can experience a moment of gratitude during the holiday. Vice President Weaver thanked the residents who participated in the budget discussion for their attendance. He also congratulated Director Wybensinger for his achievement. He participated in the Orthopedic One ribbon cutting ceremony and referred to the project as the envy of other communities. He encouraged residents to stay for the Finance Committee meeting. President Bowers thanked Senior Director Vollmer for sharing a Council update schedule for the Strategic Plan. Beginning on December 16th, Council will host regular meetings every 45 to 60 days which will include updates from Director Vollmer or Planning Next, the vendor supporting the project. On Friday, November 22nd, Councilmembers Bowers and Jones will hold a Budget and Breakfast event at Café Creekside. President Bowers highlighted the Bibliophile Candle Company, a small local business operated by Kylie Cooper Cyrus. Her business is celebrating the opening of a brick and mortar storefront. President Bowers also thanked the Veteran’s Memorial volunteers, including Becky and Tom Kneeland. The Mayor and a number of City of Gahanna Page 15 City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 Councilmembers were able to attend the Veteran’s Day event to present a joint proclamation and resolution. President Bowers also thanked residents for offering their thoughts on the budget. She stated that while people may have differing views, everyone is supportive of protecting the community and moving it forward, proving that we all have a similar vision and values. M. ADJOURNMENT: With no further business before the Council, President Bowers adjourned the regular meeting at 8:17 p.m. Jeremy A. VanMeter Clerk of Council APPROVED by the City Council, this day of 2024. Merisa K. Bowers City of Gahanna Page 16