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, April 7, 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, April 7, 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 April 4, 2025. Present 6 - Merisa K. Bowers, Jamille Jones, Kaylee Padova, Stephen A. Renner, Michael Schnetzer, and Trenton I. Weaver Absent 1 - Nancy R. McGregor B. ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS TO THE AGENDA: None. C. PRESENTATIONS: 1. Division of Police - Promotion Ceremony for Sgt. Michael Shippitka Mayor Jadwin administered the oath of office to newly promoted Police Sergeant Michael Shippitka. Sergeant Shippitka repeated the oath, affirming his commitment to support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States, the State of Ohio, and the City of Gahanna, and to faithfully and impartially discharge the duties of Police Sergeant for the Gahanna Division of Police. Chief Spence and Director of Public Safety Tim Becker then welcomed Sergeant Shippitka’s family to join him at the podium and offered remarks recognizing his career and service. Director Becker shared that Sergeant Shippitka was born in Euclid, Ohio, and earned his bachelor's degree in business administration with a major in accounting and a minor in psychology from Cleveland State University. He brings 26 years of law enforcement City of Gahanna Page 1 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 experience, including service with the Independence and Chandler Police Departments, and 13 years with the Gahanna Division of Police. His tenure includes roles as a Field Training Officer, member of the Officer Fitness Team, and 11 years as a Narcotics Detective. Director Becker noted the significance of Sergeant Shippitka's decision to pursue a supervisory role at this point in his career and expressed confidence in his leadership. Family members present included Sergeant Shippitka’s wife, daughters, sister, and mother-in-law. Director Becker also thanked the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge #9 and welcomed fellow Officers, retirees, and law enforcement partners who were in attendance. Sergeant Shippitka offered brief remarks, thanking his law enforcement colleagues, both past and present, for their support, and expressed enthusiasm about his new role and the opportunity to serve alongside the officers of Gahanna’s Field Services Division. President Bowers extended congratulations on behalf of Council and thanked all who attended the ceremony. Chief Spence acknowledged the rarity and importance of promotions within a department of Gahanna’s size. He expressed appreciation to Council for affording the time to honor such milestones. 2. Division of Police Update 2025-0080 Division of Police - Presentation and Updates to Council 4.7.2025 Chief Jeff Spence, on behalf of the Police Department, Director Becker, and Mayor Jadwin’sleadership team, provided a comprehensive update on police staffing, equipment, technology initiatives, and enforcement metrics, with an emphasis on 2024 progress and 2025 plans. Police Staffing Chief Spence reported active efforts to backfill and expand staffing, including: · Ongoing replacement of two sergeants (Hendon and Pertz). · One open position for a Communications Technician, with a conditional offer extended for the second. · A pending promotion within the Communications staff to a Technician II role. · The Management Analyst vacancy from 2024 was filled, with the new hire expected within two weeks. · The contracted Mental Health Liaison joined the department early in 2024. · Two Community Liaison Officer (CLO) roles have been filled by Officers Blair Thomas and Ann Jodon, following internal movement. · Six backfill Officer positions remain open; two conditional offers are in process, one for an Academy Recruit starting April 30, 2025, and one lateral transfer from Las Vegas Metro Police Department (PD) City of Gahanna Page 2 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 expected in May. · Two Evidence Technician roles (added in the 2025 budget) are currently posted. · Recruitment for a new Deputy Chief, authorized in the 2025 budget, will begin this summer. · A Training Coordinator role shared with the Department of Administrative Services is also posted. Public Safety Equipment and Projects Key investments and updates included: · Radio Equipment: $795,000 allocated; Council presentation anticipated within 30 days. · 911 Equipment: $150,000 for lifecycle upgrades. · Speed Signs: Four solar-powered signs were deployed citywide. · Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) System: The city is leading a five-agency CAD upgrade (Whitehall, Bexley, Reynoldsburg, Grandview Heights). Go-live is expected in September 2025. · Police Vehicles: $420,000 allocated for replacements, including safety and computer equipment. · Breath Testing: The Intoxilyzer DMT device is now in use following late-2024 deployment; 44 tests were conducted so far. Flock Safety Cameras · Cameras Installed: 21 Flock cameras were deployed, representing a $92,100 capital investment with $65,000 in annual operating costs. · Results to Date: Successful recoveries of stolen vehicles, arrests related to thefts, firearm offenses, and domestic violence cases. · Recent Case Highlight: The system provided leads in a recent car break-in and shots-fired incident near Andalus Drive and Milan/Heil, which occurred over a 1 minute, 20 second span. Traffic and Crash Metrics · Crash Trends: Total crashes are up 22% year-to-date (161 in 2025 vs. 131 in 2024). · Injury Crashes: Up 3.92%, primarily minor injuries. · No fatal or serious injury crashes reported in either 2024 or 2025 to date. · Commercial Vehicle Crashes: Increased from zero in 2024 to four in 2025. · Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI) Crashes: Down 44% year-to-date. Traffic Volume & Roadway Metrics · Average daily traffic volume across Gahanna increased by 2%. · I-270 accounts for 25-40% of city crash volume, with traffic up 1.8%. · US-62 east of Stygler Road, another high-incident corridor, is up 1.3% in volume. City of Gahanna Page 3 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 Traffic Enforcement · Traffic Stops: Up 22% over 2024. · Electronic Citations: 85% of citations issued electronically (up from 71% in 2024). · Factors affecting remaining paper citations include juvenile cases and external county court filings. Police Training Initiatives Chief Spence emphasized the department’s continued investment in training across all ranks and service phases. Training topics completed or underway in 2025 included: · De-escalation and Mental Health Response · Officer Wellness · Ohio Ethics Law · Dynamic Vehicle Operations: State-mandated and scheduled for later in the year; conducted in controlled environments with contracted facilities · Legal Updates, including recent changes to Ohio marijuana laws and search/seizure protocol Public Engagement Training also remained a priority. Courses delivered in 2025 included: · CRASE (Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events) · Women’s Self-Defense Classes · Safety sessions for graduating seniors preparing to leave for college or enter new environments · Vulnerability assessments and emergency response plan reviews for faith-based organizations and local businesses Transition to 825 Tech Center Drive - Operational Components Chief Spence discussed operational planning related to the move to the new public safety facility: · Deployment Planning: Focused on facility readiness, detention operations, and evidence management. · Sequencing the Move: May involve temporary dual-site operations during property and evidence transition. · Property & Evidence Integrity: Over 20,000 evidence items will be relocated. Chain-of-custody standards must be preserved. · Equipment Consolidation: Planning is underway for efficient staging and hot-swapping of essential equipment. · Detention Compliance: Transition to a modern facility will bring the department into compliance with Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) standards. Accreditation & Compliance Chief Spence reminded Council that Gahanna Police Department’s (PD’s) City of Gahanna Page 4 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 on-site Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) accreditation review is scheduled for August 2025. Preparations are ongoing and involve: · Internal audits and evaluations · Policy and procedure updates · Compliance with Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) standards, LEADS (Law Enforcement Automated Data System), Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS), and 911 interoperability requirements Future Considerations and Strategic Planning Chief Spence outlined strategic initiatives and anticipated challenges: · Police Staffing to Match Growth: Increased regional development and a growing student population (e.g., Gahanna Lincoln High School) will increase service demands, including School Resource Officer (SRO) coverage. · Flock Camera Expansion: Addressing gaps in neighborhood coverage and pursuing public-private partnerships to extend the network. · Regional Training Opportunities: Leveraging the training center at 825 Tech Center Drive as a regional hub for law enforcement, supported by the city’s central location, highway access, and nearby amenities. · Entrepreneurial Use of Facilities: Exploring ways to maximize investment through community training programs and facility rentals. · CAD/RMS System Transition: The multi-agency upgrade includes five partner cities. The new system will unlock analytical tools and Artificial Intelligence (AI) supported predictive policing capabilities. Director Becker concluded by thanking Council for their continued support of public safety funding. He emphasized the department’s commitment to maximizing value from taxpayer investments, the efficiency and professionalism demonstrated by police leadership and staff, and the value of technology like Flock cameras as force multipliers that increase investigative capacity, while also creating additional follow-up workload once cases move to prosecution. Director Becker affirmed that the department remained focused on continuous improvement and responsible stewardship of resources. Questions & Comments from Council President Bowers opened the floor for questions and discussion following the presentation by Chief Spence and Director Becker. Councilmember Jones asked about the early impact of the newly added mental health liaison position. Chief Spence explained that the department developed a referral process for officers in the field and that the liaison was now following up on cases involving chronic issues such as homelessness, City of Gahanna Page 5 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 hoarding, and elder care. He noted the partnership with Mifflin Township's community paramedic, Beth DeConnick, and stated that while it was still too early to fully measure impact, the process was more streamlined. Metrics are tracked to evaluate outcomes. Vice President Weaver inquired about the size and life cycle of the police vehicle fleet. Chief Spence stated that the department had 22 marked vehicles, along with detective, leased, and support vehicles. The standard replacement threshold was around 100,000 miles or after four to five years of service, though that varied based on condition. He confirmed that the department caught up with recent vehicle acquisitions after prior supply chain delays. He also confirmed that all 21 Flock cameras were deployed and clarified that the annual fee covered total cost of ownership, including maintenance and replacements. Councilmember Padova thanked the department for their responsiveness to the recent incident in Gahanna Heights and confirmed with Chief Spence that it was considered an isolated event. She noted the importance of community reassurance and acknowledged the work of officers who spoke directly with affected residents. She also confirmed that the city collaborated with neighboring jurisdictions through the regional Flock camera network. Councilmember Renner commended the department for their swift response to the recent neighborhood shooting but expressed concern over a resident discharging a firearm during the incident. He emphasized the importance of responsible gun use and asked about public messaging on such issues. Chief Spence stated the matter was part of an ongoing investigation and that facts would be gathered before further comment was made. President Bowers inquired about anticipated new initiatives for 2026. Chief Spence indicated that the department would focus on fully operationalizing the new facility at 825 Tech Center Drive, particularly its training capacity. He also cited preparations for CALEA accreditation, a new records management system (CAD/RMS), and potential staffing needs to support future operational and administrative demands. President Bowers further asked whether public-private partnerships mentioned earlier extended beyond the Flock camera network. Chief Spence confirmed that potential partnerships might also involve training facility use by external organizations and neighborhood-funded camera deployments. He cited an example in Jefferson Meadows. President Bowers raised concerns about the potential use of artificial intelligence, particularly predictive policing. Chief Spence clarified that the department intended to leverage existing data through smart analytics to identify crime trends, not to create generative models. He emphasized the goal was to process and act on existing data more efficiently. Director Becker added that the department was "data rich but information poor," and that AI could help distill data for better resource deployment. City of Gahanna Page 6 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 President Bowers concluded by thanking Chief Spence and Director Becker for the comprehensive update. She noted that departmental presentations helped the Council and the public better understand operations and anticipate potential items in future budget cycles. 3. Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) Melanie Hill, Director of Data Analysis, United Way of Central Ohio Troy Rindler, Senior Data Analyst, United Way of Central Ohio 2025-0078 Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) Presentation to City Council 4.7.2025 Councilmember Jones introduced a presentation by Melanie Hill and Troy Rindler of the United Way of Central Ohio, inspired by a session she attended at a Franklin County conference. Councilmember Jones explained that the presentation focused on ALICE, (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households and noted the relevance of the data to Gahanna’s policymaking and understanding of the community. Melanie Hill, Director of Data Analysis at United Way and a Gahanna resident of 15 years, introduced the concept of ALICE. She explained that ALICE households fall above the federal poverty level but still struggle to meet basic needs in the current economy. These households include essential workers such as childcare providers, retail employees, and delivery drivers. Hill emphasized that ALICE data reflects a significant portion of the population who often remain invisible in policy conversations and are typically ineligible for traditional assistance programs. Hill reported that, according to the 2024 ALICE report, nearly 1.9 million households in Ohio, approximately 39% of the state's total population, fell below the ALICE threshold in 2022. She noted this was more than twice the state’s official poverty rate. She explained the methodology behind the ALICE Household Survival Budget, which calculates the minimum cost of living for a family of four and includes expenses like childcare, often excluded from federal poverty metrics. Hill presented a visual comparison between household survival budgets and actual wages and credits from 2021 to 2022. She noted that while wages increased 9% in that period, pandemic-era supports expired, widening the gap between income and basic expenses. The data illustrated how the 2022 federal poverty level remained far below the actual cost of living. The presentation highlighted specific demographic groups, including families with children. In 2022, 32% of Ohio families with children were unable to afford basic needs. Within that, 74% of single female-headed households and 48% of single male-headed households faced financial strain, compared to just 13% of married-parent households. In Gahanna, 6.2% of households were headed by single females, on par with Franklin County, while 53% were married-couple households, 22% of which included children. Hill also discussed older adults as a growing ALICE demographic. Those aged 65 and older represented the fastest-growing segment of ALICE households, with more seniors remaining in or re-entering the workforce to make ends meet. In City of Gahanna Page 7 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 Gahanna, over 16% of residents were aged 65 or older, compared to less than 13% in Franklin County. Hill concluded her portion of the presentation and turned the discussion over to Troy Rindler, Senior Data Analyst at United Way of Central Ohio, to provide a more detailed look at ALICE data specific to Gahanna. Troy Rindler, Senior Data Analyst at United Way of Central Ohio, presented an overview of ALICE data specific to Gahanna. He stated that 24% of households in Gahanna fell below the ALICE threshold, compared to nearly 40% in Franklin County and the state of Ohio. While Gahanna fared better than the region overall, this percentage still represented approximately 8,400 residents struggling to meet basic needs. Mr. Rindler explained that the traditional Consumer Price Index (CPI) includes luxury items not relevant to ALICE households, such as powerboats and jewelry. In response, ALICE developed the ALICE Essentials Index, which tracks the cost of housing, child care, food, transportation, healthcare, and technology. The ALICE index outpaced CPI over the past three years. For example, in 2021, the median income in the Columbus MSA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) was $47,022.50, but by 2023, households needed to earn $54,000 to meet basic needs-an increase of 15%. The median income in May 2024 stood at $49,000, highlighting the growing gap between income and essential costs. Rindler demonstrated interactive tools on the United for ALICE website, including maps, a wage tool, and a legislative district tool. These resources allowed users to explore the data by household type, geography, and income level. Director Hill elaborated on how other municipalities used ALICE data. She cited a City of Columbus economic mobility accelerator pilot program that used ALICE data to determine eligibility and support for working families through conditional cash assistance. She also described United Way’s tax-time initiative, which offers financial boosts to qualifying families. Director Hill emphasized that ALICE data provides localized, annually updated insights that reflect real economic conditions better than the federal poverty level, which fails to adjust for household size or regional cost differences. Councilmember Padova expressed her appreciation for the presentation and connected the data to her prior work at Gahanna Residents In Need (GRIN). She encouraged residents not under the poverty line but still struggling to utilize community services. Councilmember Jones asked what innovative practices other communities were implementing, and Director Hill elaborated on pilot programs and advocacy work done with city councils and at the state level. Mr. Rindler explained how the Alice threshold data is tailored to local cost of living, down to the county level. He noted that users can plug in household types and county data to get an income estimate to meet the survival budget. Councilmember Schnetzer asked whether the survival budget was adjusted for regional variation, and both Director Hill and Mr. Rindler confirmed it was. Schnetzer also appreciated the inclusion of inflation data tailored to ALICE households, contrasting it with CPI used in government reporting. City of Gahanna Page 8 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 Councilmember Renner asked for clarification on the estimated 8,000 Gahanna residents struggling to meet basic needs. Mr. Rindler explained that the number was derived by translating household data into individual counts based on average household size. Renner asked how the data reflected grandparents raising grandchildren and older adults with assets. Director Hill noted that more nuanced information could be extracted from the interactive tools, though that specific household type was not highlighted in the standard report. Mr. Rindler added that older adults might own homes but still be housing cost-burdened, which would place them within the ALICE population. Councilmember Renner concluded by stating that the presentation reinforced the importance of including these households in any discussions about adjusting property taxes. President Bowers thanked Councilmember Jones for coordinating the presentation and extended the Council’s appreciation to Director Hill and Mr. Rindler for their time and work at United Way of Central Ohio. D. HEARING OF VISITORS: Kathy McCorkle of 677 Picadilly Court, Gahanna, OH, spoke on a Proposed Natural Family Resolution. Ms. McCorkle addressed Council regarding her previous request for a resolution recognizing Natural Family Month. She stated that since her initial appearance before Council, she reached out to Council President Bowers to request a meeting to discuss the resolution process and her related ideas. Ms. McCorkle shared that she received an email response earlier that day in which Council President Bowers declined to meet or further discuss the matter. Ms. McCorkle criticized Council President Bowers for what she described as an unwillingness to represent all Gahanna residents and referenced language from the Council President’s March constituent report, which invited residents to share ideas and schedule meetings. She questioned whether such outreach was genuine and called upon fellow residents to evaluate the character, ideology, and belief systems of their elected representatives on both the City Council and the School Board. She urged citizens to stay engaged, advocate for their values, and be vigilant in holding local officials accountable to democratic principles, including free speech and broad representation. She concluded by encouraging residents to ensure their voices are not silenced by elected officials. E. CONSENT AGENDA: 1. Minutes - To Approve: 2025-0070 Council Regular Minutes 3.17.2025 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. City of Gahanna Page 9 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 2025-0071 Committee of the Whole Minutes 3.24.2025 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2025-0072 Finance Committee Minutes 3.24.2025 The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda. 2. Resolutions: RES-0012-2025 A RESOLUTION TO AMEND RESOLUTION 0009-2024 TO REVISE THE 2025 SIDEWALK MAINTENANCE PROGRAM AREA The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda. RES-0013-2025 A RESOLUTION DETERMINING THE NECESSITY TO REPAIR AND/OR REPLACE SIDEWALKS IN THE 2026 SIDEWALK MAINTENANCE PROGRAM AREA FOR THE CITY OF GAHANNA The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda. RES-0014-2025 A RESOLUTION DETERMINING THE NECESSITY TO REPAIR AND/OR REPLACE SIDEWALKS IN THE 2026 SIDEWALK MAINTENANCE LOOKBACK PROGRAM AREA FOR THE CITY OF GAHANNA The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda. RES-0016-2025 A RESOLUTION REAFFIRMING THE CITY OF GAHANNA'S REPRESENTATIVE AND ALTERNATE TO THE REGIONAL INCOME TAX AGENCY (RITA) REGIONAL COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS (RCOG) The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda. RES-0017-2025 A RESOLUTION CELEBRATING APRIL 2025 AS EARTH MONTH AND MAY 5-9, 2025 AS AIR QUALITY AWARENESS WEEK AND COMMITTING TO A MORE SUSTAINABLE GAHANNA The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda. 3. Ordinances for Second Reading and Emergency Adoption: ORD-0008-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO REPEAL AND REPLACE THE CITY OF GAHANNA CODIFIED ORDINANCES CHAPTER 903 - SIDEWALK CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE, AND RENEWAL; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY City of Gahanna Page 10 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 The Clerk read the Ordinance by title. The Ordinance was adopted on the Consent Agenda with an emergency declaration. 4. Ordinances for Second Reading and Adoption: ORD-0009-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF GAHANNA CHAPTER 147 - BOARD OF ZONING AND BUILDING APPEALS, CHAPTER 770 - PROPERTY APPEALS BOARD, AND CHAPTER SECTION 1117.09 - APPEALS The Clerk read the Ordinance by title. The Ordinance was adopted on the Consent Agenda. End of Consent Agenda A motion was made by Renner, seconded by Schnetzer, to Pass the Consent Agenda. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Bowers, Jones, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver Absent: 1- McGregor F. RESOLUTIONS: RES-0015-2025 A RESOLUTION DECLARING THE CITY OF GAHANNA'S INTENT TO PARTICIPATE FINANCIALLY IN THE WYNNE RIDGE COURT BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT (ODOT PROJECT NO. 116417) AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO A PARTICIPATORY AGREEMENT WITH THE OHIO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION President Bowers noted that Resolution No. 0015-2025 was removed from the consent agenda and placed on the regular agenda. The resolution was initially discussed at the Committee of the Whole meeting on March 24, 2025. Following that discussion, amendments were proposed, and there remained some outstanding questions regarding the contract associated with the resolution. As the contract must be approved before the end of the month, President Bowers requested a motion to postpone Resolution 0015-2025 to a date certain for vote on April 21, 2025, and to refer the item back to the Committee of the Whole on April 14, 2025. Councilmember Schnetzer asked whether postponing Resolution 0015-2025 would cause any delay or issues with the associated project and whether the timeline would still be met. Senior Director of Operations Kevin Schultz confirmed that there would be no delay. He stated that the item was returned to Committee at the request of the City Attorney and that adoption must occur by the end of the month. He indicated the City of Gahanna had enough time to meet the requirement, noting the deadline was believed to be April 24, 2025. City of Gahanna Page 11 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 A motion was made by Weaver, seconded by Padova, that the Resolution be Postponed to a Date Certain, the 4/21/2025 regular City Council meeting, with further discussion scheduled in Committee of the Whole on 4/14/2025. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 6- Bowers, Jones, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver Absent: 1- McGregor G. ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION / FIRST READING: ORD-0010-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN EASEMENT AGREEMENT WITH COLUMBIA GAS OF OHIO, INC President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0011-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO A TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION EASEMENT WITH COLUMBIA GAS OF OHIO, INC President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0012-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN ACCESS AND GENERAL UTILITY EASEMENT WITH COLUMBIA GAS OF OHIO, INC President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0013-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO ACCEPT THE DEDICATION OF 0.057 ACRES OF RIGHT-OF-WAY EXTENSION FROM PARCEL NO. 025-012951 LOCATED OFF OF CLIFFVIEW DRIVE FOR THE PURPOSE OF FACILITATING A FUTURE LOT SPLIT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A REGULATOR STATION BY COLUMBIA GAS OF OHIO, INC President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0014-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO ACCEPT THE DEDICATION OF 0.071 ACRES OF RIGHT-OF-WAY FROM PROPERTY LOCATED AT 4720 SHULL ROAD TO COMPLY WITH THE CITY'S 2019 THOROUGHFARE PLAN President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0015-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO AWARD AND ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH DECKER CONSTRUCTION COMPANY FOR THE 2025 STREET AND SIDEWALK MAINTENANCE PROGRAM (ST-1114) President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. ORD-0016-2025 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS City of Gahanna Page 12 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 - Clerk of Court Computer Fund (2290) for Capital Equipment President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title. H. CORRESPONDENCE AND ACTIONS: 1. Clerk - None. 2. Council Sign up for City Council Newsletter here: https://www.gahanna.gov/list.aspx 2025-0075 Your City Council at Work Newsletter - January-February 2025 President Bowers informed the audience that a link was identified and made available on the agenda for individuals to sign up for the new City Council newsletter. She also noted that the second edition of the newsletter is now available for review under the Correspondence and Actions section. I. REPRESENTATIVES: 1. Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) - Renner, Padova Councilmember Renner reported that the Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) met on March 18, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. The minutes were approved, and financial matters were discussed. Mayor Jadwin provided her customary update on city activities. Planning staff reported on two Tech Center projects, one involving a roofing company and the other being a more mixed-use development. CIC entered Executive Session under Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22(G)(2) to discuss the sale of property. Councilmember Renner noted he did not record the time the session began and would amend his report at a future meeting, with Councilmember Padova estimating the meeting concluded just before 9:00 a.m. The February draft balance sheet reflected a total of $8,295,211. The February draft profit and loss statement indicated approximately $20,500 in income and $52,765 in expenses. The January draft statement of cash flows showed an ending cash balance of $203,503.41. Mayor Jadwin noted that all approved minutes and financial statements would be uploaded to the CIC website. She explained that a temporary delay occurred due to the cancellation of the February 2025 meeting, but once approved, materials are typically posted promptly by staff. Councilmember Renner concluded by announcing the next CIC meeting scheduled for April 15, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. City of Gahanna Page 13 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 2. Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) - Weaver 2025-0079 Councilmember Weaver's MORPC Report to City Council 4.7.2025 Vice President Weaver expressed appreciation to Management Analyst Jess Hilts for her support in preparing the MORPC report. He thanked everyone who attended the MORPC State of the Region event, noting it was great to see strong participation from members of the administration, fellow councilmembers, the Planning Commission, and the Council Office. Vice President Weaver also announced that MORPC would host a Community Housing Resource Fair on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at MORPC. The event is free and intended to connect attendees with housing experts and available support options. He noted that MORPC recently approved more than $52 million in funding for regional infrastructure projects and concluded by announcing that the next MORPC Commission meeting would take place on Thursday, April 10, 2025. 3. Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) - Padova Councilmember Padova announced that Herb Day would take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Creekside. In addition to the well-known plant sale, the event would feature various vendors, activities, and musical performances. She encouraged community members to volunteer and directed them to sign up at ohioherbcenter.org under the Herb Day section. Padova also shared that Herb’n Restaurant Week would kick off on May 3, 2025, highlighting local restaurants offering special herbal-themed menu items in celebration of Gahanna’s designation as the Herb Capital. A list of participating restaurants will be posted on the Visit Gahanna website and shared via social media as the event approaches. Additionally, Padova informed attendees that the volunteer sign-up for the Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival is now live. Interested individuals can register at creeksidebluesandjazz.com. She shared her positive experience volunteering at the festival and encouraged others to get involved, noting it as a great way to engage with neighbors and give back to the community while enjoying extra perks. 4. School Board (SB) - Jones Councilmember Jones reported that she had no updates, as the district recently returned from spring break. J. OFFICIAL REPORTS: 1. Mayor Mayor Jadwin extended her heartfelt gratitude to the many residents and guests who attended the recent State of the City event. She noted the strong City of Gahanna Page 14 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 turnout, with representation from every city department, including the Council Office and the City Attorney’s Office. The event featured 13 Gahanna restaurants and 19 community, regional, and state organizations. Based on feedback received, attendees appreciated the opportunity to engage with staff, elected officials, and community organizations. Mayor Jadwin noted that the 2025 State of the City video is available on the City's YouTube channel and linked on gahanna.gov for those who could not attend. She reported that the Citizens Academy kicked off and welcomed a group of 20 engaged Gahanna residents, representing both longtime and new members of the community. The sessions thus far featured excellent dialogue and strong participation. Mayor Jadwin provided an update on Senate Bill 104 concerning short-term rentals. She shared that Senator Brenner, the bill sponsor, recently held a meeting with stakeholders including the Ohio Municipal League, the Ohio Mayors Alliance, County Auditors, and the Ohio Realtors. Discussions focused on the collection of lodging and sales taxes from short-term rentals, with general agreement on those aspects. The outstanding issue remains the authority to regulate short-term rentals, whether it should rest with local or state governments. The senator intends to continue stakeholder meetings with a goal of reaching a compromise by year’s end. In recognition of April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month, Mayor Jadwin announced she would issue a proclamation later in the week. She highlighted the importance of avoiding handheld phone use while driving, noting a recent personal observation of distracted driving on I-270. Finally, Mayor Jadwin announced the hiring of Mr. Jeff Gottke as the City of Gahanna’s new Director of Economic Development. Mr. Gottke previously served as President of the Knox County Area Development Foundation and will begin his new role in Gahanna on April 28, 2025. Mayor Jadwin shared her enthusiasm for his arrival and encouraged the community to extend him a warm welcome. 2. City Attorney City Attorney Tamilarasan provided a brief update, announcing that shortly after the last Council meeting in March 2025, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals rendered a decision in the City's favor in the Speed Way case. She noted that this decision concluded that section of litigation. She added that the opposing party has 90 days to request jurisdiction with the U.S. Supreme Court, and she would keep the Council informed if such a request occurs. She confirmed that the appellate court’s ruling affirmed the trial court’s decision in favor of the City of Gahanna. K. COUNCIL COMMENT: Councilmember Jones stated that her constituent report was attached to the evening’s agenda. She announced that her April constituent hour would be City of Gahanna Page 15 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at noon at Bibliophile Candle Co. Councilmember Padova expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming joint constituent hour and “Stuffy Swap” event with Council President Bowers. The event would take place on Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Gahanna Library in Meeting Rooms 1 and 2. The event, held in celebration of Earth Day, would promote sustainability by encouraging families to bring in gently used, clean stuffed animals to trade. She noted it was an opportunity to reuse items instead of purchasing new ones and to refresh Easter baskets with items children might not miss. Councilmember Renner congratulated Sergeant Michael Shippitka and welcomed his family and members of the Police Division who attended the meeting in support. He expressed appreciation for their presence and extended his best wishes. Vice President Weaver also congratulated Sergeant Shippitka, calling his promotion a well-deserved honor. He commended the Police Division and recognized the sergeant’s career of service, which was evident by the strong turnout of current and former colleagues. Vice President Weaver announced he would host a constituent hour on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the front lobby conference room of City Hall. He also praised the administration and staff for a successful State of the City event, highlighting the strong community participation and the representation of local businesses. He encouraged residents to view the event video online. President Bowers announced the grand reopening of the Plant Library, which would be held Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at 560 Officenter Place. The reopening was in partnership with Creative Options and supported by community grant funding. She encouraged attendance, noting it would not conflict with Councilwoman Jones’s constituent hour. President Bowers also promoted the upcoming “Make Gahanna Yours” Spring Litter Cleanup event on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 9:00 a.m., describing it as a valuable opportunity to prepare the city for the spring and summer seasons. She noted her own constituent report was included in the agenda packet and echoed Councilwoman Padova’s remarks about their joint event on Sunday. The report detailed her recent constituent activities and policy work from February through March. President Bowers also addressed a request for a resolution titled the “Natural Family Resolution,” originally brought forward in February 2025, and reiterated by a resident earlier that evening. She explained that after receiving the request, she asked for more information and conducted her own research, including reviewing the website naturalfamilystrong.com and its model resolution. She stated that while she agreed with some broad values such as loyalty, service to others, and stewardship of community, the resolution promoted ideas such as male-dominated households and subservient wives that did not reflect her beliefs. She emphasized her support for the many forms families can take and reaffirmed her commitment to values rooted in City of Gahanna Page 16 City Council Meeting Minutes April 7, 2025 inclusivity and community care. President Bowers clarified that she was not obligated to advance legislation that did not align with her values or her understanding of the community’s best interests, while also affirming every resident’s right to be heard. She encouraged any colleague interested in pursuing the proposed resolution to contact the resident directly. 2025-0073 Councilmember Merisa K. Bowers' Constituent Report - February-March 2025 2025-0074 Councilmember Jamille Jones' Constituent Report - March 2025 L. ADJOURNMENT: With no further business before the Council, President Bowers adjourned the meeting at 8:43 p.m. Jeremy A. VanMeter Clerk of Council APPROVED by the City Council, this day of 2025. Merisa K. Bowers City of Gahanna Page 17