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, March 3, 2025 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, March 3, 2025, 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 and led members in the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda was published on February 28, 2025. 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 Presentation - Women's History Month Recipient: London Studer, Gahanna Lincoln High School Baseball 2025-0054 London Studer - Gahanna Lincoln High School Baseball Presentation President Bowers opened the meeting with a joint resolution and proclamation in honor of Women’s History Month. She announced that the city was recognizing London Studer, a 2024 graduate of Gahanna Lincoln High School and a standout female baseball player. Bowers introduced the resolution by highlighting London’s remarkable achievements and the impact of her success in breaking barriers for women in sports. Bowers shared that London’s journey began in Gahanna’s recreational leagues and progressed to travel and school teams, where she excelled as both a player and a trailblazer. London was the only girl at the age of 11 to participate in the USSSA All-American Games. She went on to play for the U.S. Women’s National Team and competed in the WBSC Women’s Baseball World Cup in 2023. London’s accomplishments include being the first girl to play baseball for Gahanna Lincoln High School, where she earned MVP recognition over a City of Gahanna Page 1 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 dozen times, pitched multiple no-hitters (including one game with 17 strikeouts), and regularly threw fastballs reaching 81 mph. She also batted over .500, hit multiple home runs in a single game, and recorded a grand slam. London attended the Elite Development Invitational hosted by USA Baseball and Major League Baseball for two consecutive years, earning all-expenses-paid invitations to train with the Women's National Baseball Team and attend the World Series. Bowers emphasized that London’s success is not only a personal achievement but also a source of inspiration for young athletes, especially girls. London’s story represents the courage to break barriers, the resilience to push forward, and the strength to empower others. Bowers noted that London embodies the spirit of Women’s History Month and has paved the way for future generations to pursue their passions without limits. Mayor Jadwin praised London’s leadership and athleticism, recalling how rewarding it had been to watch London grow during her time at Gahanna Lincoln High School. Jadwin highlighted London’s role with the Gahanna Bananas as the unofficial team captain and expressed excitement about London’s return to the team for the upcoming game against the Ohio Village Muffins on May 17, 2025. Jadwin commended London for breaking barriers and inspiring others, encouraging her to continue pushing forward in her career. Council and Mayor joined London and her family for a group photo and presented her with the resolution. London Studer thanked Council and the Mayor for the recognition. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent women in sports and for the acknowledgment of the progress women have made in breaking down barriers. London remarked how meaningful it was to see these achievements recognized beyond just words. President Bowers closed by congratulating London again and expressing excitement for what the future holds for her. 2. Walk for Women Weekend - President Bowers 2025-0055 Girls on the Run and Walk for Women Presentations to Council 3.3.2025 President Bowers opened the next presentation with a recap of the Walk for Women Weekend held on February 1-2, 2025. She explained that the event, hosted by the City of Gahanna in partnership with Visit Gahanna and the Gahanna Division of Police (GPD), aimed to ensure that women feel safe and free to move around the community. Bowers noted that following some incidents late last year, several women in the community expressed feeling uneasy while using local trails and sidewalks. In response, the city organized the Walk for Women Weekend to demonstrate its commitment to safety and community support. Bowers highlighted that Girls on the Run received a significant donation from the White Castle Foundation and Second Sole as part of the event. She invited Krista Frost and Sarah Hider from Girls on the Run of Central Ohio to share more about their organization. City of Gahanna Page 2 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 Sarah Hider, Executive Director of Girls on the Run of Central Ohio, and Krista Frost, Marketing and Development Manager, thanked Council for the opportunity to speak. Frost noted that the Walk for Women Weekend was one of the first times she had seen such a community-wide conversation about safety, particularly concerning girls and women. She stressed the importance of giving girls the tools and support to feel safe while being active. Hider explained that Girls on the Run operates over 75 teams across Central Ohio, with more than 1,100 girls participating. The program’s mission is to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident through an experience-based curriculum integrated with running. Hider emphasized that the program helps girls build self-confidence, learn resilience, and develop leadership skills through social and emotional learning. Each participant completes a community impact project, empowering them to create positive change. Frost shared that since Girls on the Run was founded in Central Ohio in 2008, it has served over 20,000 girls across eight counties. She emphasized that the program never turns away participants due to financial constraints, providing shoes and athletic gear when needed. Hider added that 98% of Girls on the Run’s head coaches are women, compared to just 26% of head coaches in youth sports nationwide. President Bowers then invited Chief Spence to speak about the Gahanna Division of Police's participation in the event. Chief Spence explained that the safety talk held at Second Sole was one of three community safety events offered by the GPD that quarter. The event allowed community liaison officers and a community paramedic to engage with participants and provide safety tips. Spence highlighted the value of these events in fostering interaction and building relationships between the community and law enforcement. President Bowers continued by describing the Walk for Women event held on Sunday, February 2nd. The walk began at the Gahanna swimming pool and concluded at Creekside, with over 100 participants and several elected officials from across the region. State Senator Beth Liston and State Representative Meredith Lawson-Rowe attended and presented a commendation from State Representative Beryl Brown Piccolantonio recognizing the significance of the Walk for Women Weekend. The Franklin County Prosecutor’s Office also participated, allowing assistant prosecutors to engage with the community and local law enforcement. Bowers thanked all the local officials who attended, including Mayor Laurie Jadwin, School Board President Kara Coates, and Superintendent Dr. Deagle, for showing their support. Following the walk, the Ohio Herb Center hosted a self-care open house. Since Amanda Ferguson, the Ohio Herb Center coordinator, was unable to attend the meeting, Bowers shared a statement on her behalf. She noted that the open house focused on body, mind, and soul, providing resources and self-care activities for participants. Approximately 25 people attended, supported by two volunteers. She highlighted the Herb Center’s historical connection to strong women leaders in Gahanna and its commitment to supporting women’s empowerment. President Bowers concluded by describing the Walk for Women Weekend as a success. She emphasized that the event helped reclaim public spaces, City of Gahanna Page 3 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 reinforced the city’s commitment to safety, and strengthened community connections. The weekend also highlighted existing resources, such as the GPD’s recurring self-defense courses, and renewed the city’s commitment to collaborative relationships. Bowers thanked Chief Spence, Community Liaison Officer Blair Thomas, Lieutenant Kissel, Council staff, Visit Gahanna, Parks and Recreation, and all who contributed to the event’s success. 3. Our Gahanna Strategic Plan Update - Planning NEXT Sarah C. Bongiorno, Director, and Bailey Morlan, Senior Planner 2025-0056 Our Gahanna - Strategic Plan Update to Council 3.3.2025 Sarah Bongiorno, Director with Planning NEXT, and Bailey Morlan, Senior Planner, provided an update on the Our Gahanna Strategic Plan. Bongiorno stated that Planning NEXT had been working with the community for several months and had just completed the first round of community engagement. She explained that the goal for the first round was to engage 1,000 people to ensure broad representation of the Gahanna community. Bongiorno reported that they successfully met that goal and emphasized that the effort focused not only on numbers but also on securing representative engagement across key demographics. Bailey Morlan detailed the engagement methods used during the first round. The outreach included 86 “Meeting in a Box” sessions conducted throughout January and up to February 19th. These were small-format table discussions for up to 10 people, featuring three structured activities. Additionally, Planning NEXT facilitated an online survey that gathered more than 400 responses and over 2,400 individual inputs. The team also collected more than 900 postcards from participants, all of which were reviewed for feedback. Planning NEXT set up outreach tables at the YMCA and other community locations to maximize participation. Morlan presented demographic data from the first round, comparing the engagement results with U.S. Census Bureau data for Gahanna. While overall participation aligned closely with census demographics, the 20-24 and 25-34 age groups were underrepresented. Morlan assured Council that the team would focus on increasing engagement from these groups in future rounds. Engagement from the Black/African-American and Hispanic/Latino communities also slightly lagged behind Census levels. Morlan committed to tracking these gaps and implementing targeted outreach strategies in the next phase. Ms. Bongiorno described the three core activities included in the "Meeting in a Box" sessions: 1) Love Notes to Gahanna - Participants shared what they loved about Gahanna. Common responses included the sense of community, diversity, local amenities, parks and recreation, and the quality of city services; 2) Unique Gahanna - Participants identified what makes Gahanna distinct from other Central Ohio communities. Responses emphasized the city’s green spaces, Creekside as a gathering place, high-quality schools, and the welcoming and connected atmosphere; and 3) Postcards from the Future - Participants wrote postcards imagining Gahanna 10 to 20 years in the future. Many envisioned a vibrant Creekside with expanded amenities and a walkable, connected city with enhanced public City of Gahanna Page 4 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 transit and infrastructure. Bongiorno shared that approximately 80% of participants completed the demographic survey at the end of the sessions, providing valuable data for tracking engagement diversity. Key themes from the feedback included as follows: · A strong sense of community and connection among residents. · A desire for improved walkability and expanded public transit options. · Interest in increasing Creekside’s vibrancy and offerings. · Continued focus on education and city services. Ms. Bongiorno noted that participants demonstrated optimism about Gahanna’s future and valued the city’s balance of urban and suburban qualities. Bongiorno outlined the next steps for the strategic plan process. Planning NEXT was developing a draft framework based on the first round of input, which had been tested with the Steering Committee and would soon be presented to Council for feedback. The second round of engagement would take place on May 6th, 7th, and 8th, with various events planned to reach targeted demographics, including: · Taco Tuesday Fest - To engage families. · Minority and Small Business Networking Event - To strengthen outreach to underrepresented communities. · Senior Luncheon - To ensure representation of older residents. · Young Professional Happy Hour - To increase engagement among the 20-34 age group. · High School Outreach - Through the Key Club and Youth Advisory Group. Ms. Bongiorno credited the success of the first round to the strong participation of the Steering Committee, city staff, and community volunteers. She expressed confidence that the engagement momentum would continue through the next phase. Councilmember McGregor asked about the demographic chart on Hispanic and Latino participation. Bongiorno clarified that the chart reflected the percentage of residents identifying as Hispanic/Latino compared to engagement levels. McGregor inquired about a secondary bar on the chart, which Bongiorno explained represented participants who indicated they were not Hispanic/Latino. President Bowers thanked Bongiorno and Morlan for their presentation and commended the team for achieving broad community representation. Bowers noted that the feedback aligned with what Council regularly hears from residents and expressed optimism about the next phase of the strategic plan. D. HEARING OF VISITORS: Gene Poirier of 389 Olde Ridenour Road, Gahanna, OH addressed Council regarding the need for a crosswalk on Olde Ridenour. Mr. Poirier, a resident of Walnut Trace Senior Living on Olde Ridenour Road, City of Gahanna Page 5 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 addressed Council regarding pedestrian safety concerns near his community. Poirier noted that Walnut Trace houses approximately 85 senior citizens, many of whom are active and enjoy walking along the paths provided by the city, particularly the path along Olde Ridenour Road adjacent to the golf course. Poirier explained that to access the path, residents must cross Olde Ridenour Road, which currently lacks a safe pedestrian crossing. Although the posted speed limit is 15 mph, Poirier observed that most vehicles travel significantly faster, estimating speeds of 35 to 40 mph. He noted that the speed limit is not enforced, creating a dangerous situation for pedestrians. Poirier highlighted that parents and children from McCorkle Park frequently cross Olde Ridenour Road, as do residents from the River's Edge neighborhood and others attending soccer games at Lower McCorkle Park during the summer. He stressed that the absence of a safe crossing poses a significant safety risk for the community. On behalf of the Walnut Trace residents and in the interest of community safety, Poirier requested that the city install a midblock pedestrian crosswalk with appropriate signage. He proposed that the crosswalk be located from the northeast corner of the Walnut Trace property across Olde Ridenour Road to the existing walking path on the east side of the road. He explained that while a crosswalk exists about 500 feet south at Chapelfield, it is inaccessible due to the lack of a sidewalk on the west side of Olde Ridenour and the uneven ground. Poirier asked the city to visit the location, allocate funding, and construct the crosswalk. He questioned whether a pedestrian struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross Olde Ridenour Road at the current location would be considered at fault due to the absence of a designated crosswalk. Mayor Jadwin thanked Poirier for his comments and acknowledged the safety concerns. Jadwin informed Council that the city had already issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to install a crosswalk at the location, following feedback from residents and a site visit. She assured Poirier that the crosswalk installation was forthcoming. Kathy McCorkle of 677 Picadilly Court, Gahanna, OH, addressed the Council on a request for a joint resolution/proclamation. Ms. McCorkle addressed Council to propose the adoption of a yearly joint proclamation and resolution recognizing and celebrating the natural family in the City of Gahanna. She stated that she had prepared a draft resolution and would reach out to an authorized person to bring it before Council. She also offered to work with the necessary parties to implement the resolution in time to honor the natural family from Mother's Day in May through Father’s Day in June of 2025. McCorkle proposed that the proclamation and resolution urge the Gahanna community, including citizens, churches, religious organizations, and businesses, to support, honor, and celebrate the natural family by participating in family-oriented events during that time period. She informed Council that other localities and states had already declared a Natural Family Month, and that the City of Delaware, Ohio would soon adopt a similar resolution. McCorkle encouraged Gahanna to be among the cities leading the way in recognizing the importance of the natural family. McCorkle noted that Gahanna has issued several proclamations and resolutions recognizing various cultural, political, and social causes, including Black City of Gahanna Page 6 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 History Month, Women’s History Month, Pride Month, Distracted Driving Month, and Hindu Heritage Month. She emphasized that the natural family is vital to the health of the community and has served as the foundation of all societies throughout history. McCorkle concluded by stating that the natural family is the oldest institution in human history and was created by God. She urged Council to take action to establish the proposed celebration and expressed her hope that the city would move forward with adopting the resolution this year. E. PUBLIC HEARINGS: ORD-0001-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1117.10(e)(1)A - REQUIRED IMPROVEMENTS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY President Bowers opened the public hearing at 7:43 p.m. on Ordinance 0001-2025, an ordinance to amend the City of Gahanna Code Part 11 Zoning Chapter Section 1117.10(e)(1)(A) regarding required improvements and declaring an emergency. Bowers explained that the current zoning code does not specify the types of development, including the size and scale of development or application type, that are required to adhere to the standards of Chapter Section 1117.10(e). This lack of clarity means that minor improvements, such as adding a shed on a residential lot, are subject to the same development standards as large-scale projects like a new office building. The proposed ordinance would clarify that the required improvements defined in Section 1117.10 apply only to projects requiring site civil engineering plans. Bowers announced that public comments would be limited to three minutes per speaker and that speakers were required to complete a speaker slip and state their name and address for the record. Additional time could be granted at the discretion of the Council President. Patricia Kovacs of 527 Haversham Drive, Gahanna, OH: Ms. Kovacs stated that she had spoken at a previous meeting about the issue but had forgotten to add a few points. She expressed concern that affected residents were not being notified about changes related to thoroughfare plans, such as adding an extra lane or a side path on Johnstown Road. Kovacs suggested that the city improve communication with impacted residents. She also proposed that realtors be informed about future thoroughfare plans so they could disclose potential changes to prospective homebuyers. Kovacs noted that a resident she spoke about had purchased a house without knowing that the road would soon be widened. President Bowers thanked Kovacs for her comments and invited additional speakers. Seeing none, she closed the public hearing at 7:45 p.m. F. CONSENT AGENDA: 1. Minutes - To Approve: City of Gahanna Page 7 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 2025-0051 Council Regular Minutes 2.17.2025 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2025-0052 Committee of the Whole Minutes 2.24.2025 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2. Resolutions: RES-0006-2025 A JOINT RESOLUTION AND PROCLAMATION ADVOCATING FOR LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AND CALLING ON CONGRESS TO MAINTAIN THE TAX-EXEMPT STATUS OF MUNICIPAL BONDS The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda. End of Consent Agenda A motion was made by Weaver, seconded by Renner, to Pass the Consent Agenda. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 7- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver G. RESOLUTIONS: RES-0007-2025 A JOINT RESOLUTION AND PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING MARCH 2025, AS "WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH" IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA Vice President Weaver thanked all the guests in attendance and echoed earlier comments recognizing Ms. Studer for her accomplishments. Weaver described Studer as an impressive young woman and expressed his excitement about seeing what she would achieve next. Weaver also expressed gratitude for the Walk for Women Weekend, describing it as an incredible and powerful event. He thanked those involved in organizing the weekend and stated that it was an honor to serve alongside the women on Council. A motion was made by Padova, seconded by Weaver, that the Resolution be Adopted. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 7- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver H. ORDINANCES FOR SECOND READING / ADOPTION: ORD-0001-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODE PART ELEVEN ZONING CHAPTER SECTION 1117.10(e)(1)A - REQUIRED IMPROVEMENTS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY City of Gahanna Page 8 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 President Bowers read the Ordinance by title. A motion was made by Weaver, seconded by Renner, that the Ordinance be Adopted as an Emergency. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 7- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver I. ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION, WAIVER & ADOPTION: ORD-0002-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CITY OF GAHANNA, OHIO TO PROVIDE AMENDMENTS TO GENERAL OFFENSES GAHANNA CITY CODE SECTIONS 533.03, 533.04, 533.05, 537.02, 537.021, 545.07; TO PROVIDE FOR PENALTIES; TO PROVIDE FOR CODIFICATION; TO PROVIDE FOR SEVERABILITY; TO REPEAL CONFLICTING ORDINANCES; TO PROVIDE AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES, WAIVING SECOND READING President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. A motion was made by Jones, seconded by Padova, that the Ordinance be Waived for Second Reading. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 7- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver President Bowers called for a motion to adopt Ordinance 0002-2025. City Attorney Tamilarasan informed Council that a revision to the redlined ordinance included an update to the criminal mischief code. Tamilarasan noted that the revised ordinance referenced Section 541.04 of the code, but that section was not listed in the ordinance’s title. She requested an amendment to Ordinance 0002-2025 to add Section 541.04 to the list of affected code sections in the title. Bowers confirmed the request and outlined the procedure: Council would first ask for a motion to adopt Ordinance 0002-2025 as published, then a motion to amend the title, vote on the amendment, and followed by a final vote to adopt the amended ordinance. City Attorney Tamilarasan clarified that the code section to be inserted was 541.04, placed after 537.021 in the ordinance’s title. Councilmember McGregor suggested combining the amendment and adoption into a single two-step process rather than three steps. Bowers acknowledged McGregor’s suggestion but explained that the proposed procedure followed the correct order for adopting and amending the ordinance. A motion was made by Weaver, seconded by Jones, that the Ordinance be Amended to include section 541.04 in the title. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 7- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver City of Gahanna Page 9 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 A motion was made by Weaver, seconded by Padova, that the Ordinance be Adopted as Amended. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 7- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver ORD-0003-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CITY OF GAHANNA, OHIO TO PROVIDE AMENDMENTS TO TRAFFIC GAHANNA CITY CODE SECTIONS 303.01, 303.081, 303.10, 333.01, 333.07, 335.04, 335.11; 337.26; TO PROVIDE FOR PENALTIES; TO PROVIDE FOR CODIFICATION; TO PROVIDE FOR SEVERABILITY; TO REPEAL CONFLICTING ORDINANCES; TO PROVIDE AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES, WAIVING SECOND READING President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. A motion was made by Jones, seconded by Padova, that the Ordinance be Waived for Second Reading. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 7- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver City Attorney Tamilarasan reported that Ordinance 0003-2025 included minor punctuation changes in the revised redlined version. She clarified that the changes were not substantive and did not affect the ordinance’s title. A motion was made by Weaver, seconded by Padova, that the Ordinance be Adopted. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 7- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver ORD-0004-2025 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS; WAIVING SECOND READING - Various Funds for Capital Improvement Projects President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. A motion was made by Jones, seconded by Padova, that the Ordinance be Waived for Second Reading. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 7- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver Councilmember Schnetzer asked the Administration to provide a brief explanation for the ordinances under consideration. He directed the question to Kevin Schultz, Senior Director of Operations, asking him to summarize the reasoning behind the ordinance for the benefit of future readers of the meeting minutes. Schnetzer clarified that the ordinance involved funds that had been returned and proposed for reallocation. Schultz responded that the ordinance addressed projects where the city had not met procurement thresholds to encumber funds by the end of 2024. As part of a new process to increase transparency with both Council and the public, the funds were returned at the end of the year. Schultz explained that the ordinance would simply reallocate those funds into the 2025 budget to allow the projects to continue. A motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Weaver, that the Ordinance be Adopted. The motion carried by the following vote: City of Gahanna Page 10 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 Yes: 7- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver J. CORRESPONDENCE AND ACTIONS: 1. Clerk - None. 2. Council - None. K. REPRESENTATIVES: 1. Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) - Renner, Padova Councilmember Stephen Renner reported that the CIC did not hold a meeting in February. He announced that the next meeting would take place on March 18, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. in the Committee Room. 2. Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) - Weaver 2025-0050 Councilmember Weaver's MORPC Report to City Council 3.3.2025 Vice President Weaver thanked the Council Office for their assistance in preparing the report included with the evening's agenda. He announced that the next commission meeting would take place on March 13, 2025. 3. Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) - Padova Councilmember Padova announced that tickets for the Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival went on sale over the weekend. She encouraged residents to take advantage of the early bird discount available through the end of March, which reduces the ticket price to $10. Padova also shared that the spring and summer version of the Herbal Cocktail Trail launched on Saturday. The trail includes 10 participating establishments, with a few new additions this season. Padova reminded the public that Visit Gahanna’s Annual Meeting would take place on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The event will feature Roy Hall Jr., a former NFL and Ohio State wide receiver, as the keynote speaker. Brutus the Buckeye was recently confirmed as a special guest for the event. Padova encouraged residents to purchase tickets through Visit Gahanna and take the opportunity to meet Brutus and hear from Hall. 4. School Board (SB) - Jones Councilmember Jones announced that March 26, 2025, would be Spread the Word Day. She explained that the annual event raises funds and awareness for the district’s programs supporting students with special needs. Jones noted that new shirts are designed each year for the event, and t-shirts can City of Gahanna Page 11 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 be ordered on the district’s website until March 5, 2025. She advised that the link is available on the district’s Facebook page or by contacting her directly. Jones stated that the Spread the Word Day program would take place on March 26th from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the high school gym. On March 27, 2025, the district will host a viewing of the movie Out of My Mind in the high school auditorium. The film focuses on raising awareness about the disability community. Cover to Cover Books will participate in the event by hosting a disability-focused book fair. Jones encouraged the community and her colleagues to attend both events and support the initiative. L. OFFICIAL REPORTS: 1. Mayor Mayor Jadwin thanked everyone who attended the city’s first annual Bicycle Repairman Day at Hannah Park despite the cold weather. The event honored Denny Oswald, a longtime Gahanna resident known for his passion for bicycling and bike safety. Jadwin noted that Oswald frequently stopped to repair children's bicycles to ensure they were safe. The event featured safety tips from the Gahanna Division of Police Bike Patrol and bike repairs and tune-ups from volunteers at Bicycle One. Jadwin extended special thanks to Trish Kovacs and members of the Bicycle and Trail Advisory Committee for donating and fitting free bicycle helmets. She also thanked Director Ferrell for helping organize the event and Carol Oswald for carrying on her husband’s legacy. Jadwin noted that the event took place near what would have been Denny’s 80th birthday and expressed appreciation for Carol’s efforts to promote bike safety in the community. She stated that the city looks forward to making Bicycle Repairman Day an annual event. Jadwin reported on the success of the city’s first annual Procurement Fair, held at The Peak at Edison in partnership with Ohio Minority Business Enterprise (MBE). She described the event as a resounding success, noting that it was sold out. The fair aimed to support small businesses and provide them with networking and business development opportunities. The event included a Small Business Success Summit featuring 10 to 12 organizations that offered resources to businesses. Jadwin thanked the event’s sponsors, including Franklin County and Kemba Financial Credit Union, and acknowledged the support of Ohio MBE and the Gahanna Area Chamber of Commerce. She also thanked Jen Hackman (Economic Development Administrator), Tia Ramey (Communications Manager), and Jen McBroom (Assistant to the Mayor) for their work in organizing the event. Jadwin praised Ronda Barber of Ohio MBE for her leadership and collaboration. Jadwin announced that the city and the City of New Albany received the Ohio City/County Management Association (OCMA) Intergovernmental Collaboration Award for their shared services agreement for Mayor's Court. The agreement, established a few years ago, created a joint Mayor’s Court that allowed both municipalities to operate more efficiently while reducing taxpayer costs and improving accessibility. Jadwin credited the success of the program to Director of Court Services Amanda Parker, Director of Finance Joann Bury, Magistrate Sean Maxfield, and City Attorney Tamilarasan for their roles in implementing the agreement. Jadwin also shared that the city received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in City of Gahanna Page 12 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the year ending December 31, 2023. This was the 11th consecutive year that Gahanna received the award. Jadwin praised Director Bury, Senior Director Vollmer, and the entire finance team for producing a clear and accessible financial report. Lastly, Jadwin announced that registration for the next session of the Citizens Academy would remain open for the next 48 hours or until the available spots were filled. The academy offers residents a behind-the-scenes look at city operations and allows them to engage with city staff. Jadwin noted that feedback from the first session had been overwhelmingly positive, with several participants expressing interest in attending a future "2.0" version. 2. City Attorney City Attorney Tamilarasan provided updates on ongoing litigation. She reported that oral arguments in the tobacco preemption litigation took place on February 18 and went well. In the Speed Way Towing litigation in state court, the city submitted a memorandum opposing jurisdiction to the Supreme Court of Ohio and was awaiting a decision on whether the court would hear the case. Tamilarasan also reported that the city had filed a motion for judgment on the pleadings in the Taglia litigation and was awaiting a decision. M. COUNCIL COMMENT: Councilmember McGregor expressed her appreciation for the city’s recognition of Denny Oswald. She shared that Oswald and his neighbor, Colonel Hall, a former Service Director in Gahanna, had spent years collecting discarded bicycles on trash day. They repaired the bicycles and donated them to children in need. McGregor highlighted Oswald’s commitment to promoting bicycling for children and adults and stated that the city’s decision to honor him through a bicycle repair program was fitting recognition of his contributions. Councilmember Jones referenced her constituent report attached to the evening’s agenda, which summarized events from February. She reminded the public that she would hold constituent hours on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the library. Councilmember Padova echoed Vice President Weaver’s earlier comments about the resolution honoring London Studer. She thanked everyone who attended the event and expressed appreciation for the recap of the Women’s Safety Weekend. Padova noted how Amanda Ferguson’s reference to the "Herb Ladies" tied the weekend’s events to Gahanna’s history. Councilmember Renner thanked the public for attending and praised the evening’s presentations. He specifically acknowledged Council President Bowers for her remarks and congratulated London Studer on her accomplishments. Renner described Studer’s success as a source of pride for the community and emphasized that the city’s facilities exist for the City of Gahanna Page 13 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 benefit of the residents. Councilmember Schnetzer echoed Renner’s comments, thanking the evening’s guests, particularly London Studer. He highlighted Studer’s achievements as a testament to hard work and dedication. Schnetzer also expressed appreciation for the city’s recognition of Denny Oswald, noting that Oswald lived just a few houses down from him and had personally repaired Schnetzer’s bike in the past. He described Oswald as a fixture in the neighborhood and praised his work in supporting local children. Schnetzer also congratulated Director Bury and her team for their progress in improving the city’s budgeting process. He recalled that earlier budgets were difficult to navigate, but Bury’s improvements had enhanced communication and transparency. President Bowers congratulated the recipients of the Ohio City/County Management Association (OCMA) Intergovernmental Collaboration Award, specifically recognizing Amanda Parker for her contributions. Bowers also congratulated Director Bury for the city’s recognition from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). Bowers thanked Senior Director Kevin Schultz and Senior Director Miranda Vollmer for providing a tour to herself, Councilmember McGregor, and Clerk VanMeter of the construction site at 825 Tech Center Drive. Bowers described the tour as informative and highlighted the importance of expanding and modernizing the city’s police facilities. She emphasized that the current police department building is outdated and inadequate to support the city’s growing needs. The new facility at 825 Tech Center Drive will provide improved training and operational space for officers while also serving as a multi-purpose community center and modern administrative hub. Bowers also thanked Nichole Butler and the Parks and Recreation Department for their work in relocating the Parks and Recreation Board meetings to Council Chambers and ensuring that the meetings are now streamed on YouTube. She noted that this change would improve public access and engagement with the department’s activities. 2025-0049 Councilmember Jamille Jones' Constituent Report - February 2025 N. EXECUTIVE SESSION: A motion was made by Schnetzer, seconded by Renner, 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. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 7- Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver President Bowers announced Council would meet in the Law Library for the Executive Session and that there would be no legislative action anticipated City of Gahanna Page 14 City Council Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025 following the Executive Session. Council rose to report to Executive Session at 8:18 p.m. Council rose to report from Executive Session at 8:38 p.m., with no further action. O. ADJOURNMENT: With no further business before the Council, President Bowers adjourned the meeting at 8:38 p.m. Jeremy A. VanMeter Clerk of Council APPROVED by the City Council, this day of 2025. Merisa K. Bowers City of Gahanna Page 15