Public Meetings - Delaware, Ohio

The Public Works/Public Utilities Committee of the City of Delaware, Ohio, met on November 3, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The committee received updates on solid waste operations, refuse code and commercial rate revisions, US-23 corridor plans, summer water usage under new rates, and the water service line inventory. Several items were voted upon and forwarded to City Council. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the motion summary from the August 4, 2026 meeting. Solid Waste Management Program Update - Public Works staff reported on the migration to an automated fleet, increasing efficiency from 500–600 stops per driver per day to 800–1,000. - A pilot program with DKMM and the Delaware General Health District will begin in 2027, offering monthly household hazardous waste and battery drop-off at the Public Works facility to remove lithium batteries from the waste stream. The city has experienced three separate fires related to batteries in waste. - Residential collection rates will remain at $27.00 per month, below the regional average of $28.54 and rates in comparable communities (Marysville: $34.50; Westerville: $36.98). Staff characterized the city’s service level (weekly recycling, unlimited yard waste) as superior to most central Ohio communities. - Staff is evaluating a transition to front-load collection trucks, which offer safety and versatility benefits at a similar cost ($500,000), and plans a formal cost analysis next year. Proposed Refuse Code Revisions (Chapter 929) - Proposed changes include requiring recycling carts for single-family homes, mandating city collection for multifamily dwellings, formalizing rate calculations for publicly accessible dumpsters, enabling year-round yard waste collection (by appointment in winter), and tightening senior discount verification requirements for multifamily properties. - The committee voted unanimously to forward the revisions to City Council. Proposed 2027 Commercial Collection Rates (Chapter 197) - Staff proposed increases to commercial rates based on operational cost recovery, noting the new rates will remain competitive with the private sector. A new rate structure for bi-weekly dumpster service was added. - The committee voted unanimously to forward the rate schedule to City Council. US 23 Corridor Improvements and Position Statement - City Engineer Jonathan Owen provided an update on ODOT’s US 23 Corridor Action Plan (23 Connect), which recommends improvements to three segments within the city. Projections within the city include 65 fewer serious/fatal crashes over 20 years, removal of 17–18 traffic signals, and a 35-minute peak travel time reduction on the full corridor between Waldo and I-270 (at a total cost of $1.6 billion). The plan projects over 150 fewer serious or fatal injuries corridor-wide. - He contrasted this with the separate US 23 to I-71 Connector project ($857 million to $1.2 billion), mandated by the state legislature. A final route within a 300-foot wide corridor was identified in October 2026. - Staff presented a position statement recommending the city prioritize the 23 Connect plan over the I-71 connector, arguing it provides greater direct benefit to local residents and regional commuters and that funding both simultaneously is unlikely. The statement acknowledges a combination of both would be ideal for the city. - Committee members questioned the economic impact on local businesses along the corridor and expressed strong objections to potential ODOT land acquisition along Stratford Road that could damage historic properties. - The committee voted unanimously to forward the position statement and a draft resolution to City Council. Public Utilities: Summer Water Usage and Rate Update - Staff reported the new increasing-block water rate structure (implemented January 2026) is functioning as intended. 70% of customers fall in the lowest usage tiers (0–6 CCF). Approximately 1,200 accounts moved out of the highest tier in October 2026 compared to 2025. - Sample bills showed a marginal decrease for a low-usage customer ($18.31 to $18.02) and an increase for a high-usage customer ($106 to $120). Revenue has remained stable; growth is attributed to new connections rather than the block structure. - No council action was required for this item. Water Service Line Inventory Update - The city is complying with the federal Lead and Copper Rule. Of 15,296 service lines, 81% are identified. Currently, 18 lines are preliminarily identified as lead (customer-side) and 155 as galvanized steel; approximately 3,000 lines remain unknown. - Staff is verifying lines through records and customer surveys. A replacement plan and funding mechanisms for customer-side replacements are under development. Customer notification letters will be sent in December. - No council action was required for this item. Staff Comments - Public Works Director Bill Freeno announced the Engineering Division will separate to become its own department effective January 1, 2027. - An RFP is being prepared for a Public Works fleet expansion and facility renovation to address capacity needs, with design work expected in 2027. Member Comments - Committee members noted the successful school blade painting project with all seven elementary schools; the painted blades will be displayed at First Friday. Key Outcomes - Refuse Code Revisions (Chapter 929): Voted unanimously to forward to City Council. - 2027 Commercial Collection Rates (Chapter 197): Voted unanimously to forward to City Council. - US-23 Position Statement and Resolution: Voted unanimously to forward to City Council.

The City of Delaware Parking and Safety Committee met at 6:00 p.m. on October 27, 2026, in Council Chambers. Chair Ryder presided with Dr. Bogan and Vice Chair Frazier. The committee approved the prior motion summary, heard public testimony, reviewed traffic calming and parking items, and received an update on Fire Station 305. The meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m. Consent Calendar - The committee unanimously approved the motion summary from the August 25, 2026, Parking and Safety Committee meeting as recorded and transcribed. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael W. Short (53 Carriage Drive, Delaware, OH 43015) testified about ongoing street parking problems on Carriage Drive, including utility trucks and trailers associated with nearby apartment residents, blocked driveways, and junk storage. He said neighbors have called police and tickets have been issued, but the situation has worsened. Committee members advised him to submit photos and documentation to the Council Clerk, Ms. Gebber, for follow-up. - Heather Bridingham (332 Chelsea Street) asked about the Firestone Drive speed study during the discussion, questioning whether 24-hour data masked peak-time speeding and whether the speed feedback signs could be tested before removing speed humps. Staff responded that data was collected over a full 24-hour period and was broken down by time for police enforcement targeting. Discussion Items - Four Seasons at Addison Farms Petition: The committee acknowledged receipt of a petition from Gregory Jarrell (transcribed in the audio as Gerrell) requesting alternative traffic calming on Heritage Boulevard and infrastructure reassessment within the Four Seasons Active 55+ Senior Community. Staff confirmed it was received from Council and referred to the committee; parts were addressed under the Heritage Boulevard/Rutherford Avenue item. - Pedal Delaware Pedal Bar: Representatives Bo Karski (24 Walter Gone Drive), Mitchell Brown (237 Saddlebrook Court), and Ron Brown (591 East County 16, Tiffin) presented a follow-up on their proposed pedal bar. They said they are not seeking approval but want city buy-in, plan a spring 2027 launch, and will return in six to eight months for feedback. Dr. Bogan noted staff had a prior meeting with them about routes avoiding busy roadways. Committee members encouraged continued communication and identified the Police Department, primarily Chief Moore, as the contact point for complaints. - Codified Ordinance Chapter 305 and Council Ratification under 305.08: Staff explained that Chapter 305 gives the Safety Director authority for routine parking and traffic decisions under 305.04(A-R), while 305.08's 60-day council ratification requirement was intended for broad, citywide rule changes. The committee agreed that routine items do not need to come to Council as resolutions. The City Manager said code updates are underway and the language will be revised to clarify intent. - Firestone Drive Traffic Calming: Assistant City Engineer Nancy Sager proposed removing three speed humps installed in 2005 as part of the 2027 resurfacing project funded by the Ohio Public Works Commission, replacing them with two solar-powered speed feedback signs. Letters were sent to residents on October 16. Traffic studies from March and April showed 85% of vehicles traveling below 30 mph; a count of 1,770 vehicles showed only 12 above 35 mph. Staff argued the speed humps delay emergency vehicles and snowplows and that speed feedback signs are an effective alternative. The committee asked about sign locations and enforcement data use. - Heritage Boulevard/Rutherford Avenue Intersection: Staff recommended converting the intersection to an all-way stop. Although traffic volumes alone did not meet typical warrants, Heritage Boulevard is the higher-volume/class street, and simply moving stop signs to Rutherford would create confusion and crash risk. The proposal includes LED flashing stop signs for one year plus advanced warning signs. The committee approved the recommendation. - Pennsylvania Avenue/Euclid Avenue Intersection: Staff recommended an interim all-way stop at this school-adjacent intersection due to severe peak-hour congestion, pedestrian crossing demand on the north-side path, and a significant crash history. A mini-roundabout may be a future option but costs about $2 million; signage costs under $100. The committee approved moving forward, with installation likely before the end of the year and coordinated around the school calendar. - Rockmill and Pagoda Loop No Parking Zones: Staff presented parking restriction guidance for narrow streets and tight-radius curves. For the Rockmill loop, staff recommended extending the existing no-parking restriction to close a small gap that appeared to be an oversight. The committee agreed that minor, administrative sign changes can be handled by staff with a notification, while substantive new restrictions should come to the committee. - Traffic Complaints Update: Staff introduced an updated list of traffic complaints reviewed internally, with determinations and case documentation available. The committee praised the transparency and asked that the practice continue. Staff Comments - Station 305 Update: Demolition of the former Fire Station 305 building began in November 2025. Crews found legacy issues from prior uses, including a concrete antenna base and intact hydraulic tanks from a former car dealership. New water, storm, and sanitary lines were installed; masonry is nearing completion; the apparatus bay concrete floor was poured the previous week; metal siding and roofing are about 75% complete; and interior work will continue through the winter. The new Mill Run Drive public roadway is also under construction. Project completion remains on schedule for June 2027. - Staff reminded the public about Beggars Night on Saturday and the Veterans Parade on Sunday, urging pedestrian safety. Key Outcomes - Approved the August 25, 2026, motion summary unanimously. - Approved the Firestone Drive proposal by a 3-0 roll call vote (Dr. Bogan, Vice Chair Frazier, Chair Ryder) to remove the speed humps and install two solar-powered speed feedback signs. - Endorsed the all-way stop recommendation for Heritage Boulevard/Rutherford Avenue with LED flashing signs for one year. - Endorsed the interim all-way stop recommendation for Pennsylvania Avenue/Euclid Avenue. - Directed Rockmill/Pagoda parking restriction extension to proceed as a staff-level administrative change. - Directed Michael W. Short to provide documentation to the Council Clerk for follow-up on the Carriage Drive parking complaint. - Fire Station 305 remains on schedule for completion in June 2027.

The Delaware City Council held a regular meeting on October 26, 2026, at 7:01 PM in Council Chambers, following a 6:00 PM executive session. The meeting included public comments, a presentation on EMS billing, multiple public hearings, and votes on zoning, annexation, tax incentives, and budget-related resolutions. Key outcomes included approval of the Flats at Boulder Park development, a zoning map amendment for Trailhead Crossing, a residential PUD tabled to third reading, annexation of Vernon Avenue right-of-way, and referral of the 2027 budget to the Finance Committee. A resolution authorizing an impact fee agreement with Olentangy Local School District failed to pass the emergency clause. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the October 5, 2026 Joint School Board/City Council meeting, the October 5, 2026 Special City Council meeting, and the September 28, 2026 regular meeting (McClellan abstained on the September 28 minutes). - Approved consent agenda as amended (striking duplicate item E) which included: - Acceptance of Civil Service meeting minutes (October 2, 2026) and Planning Commission meeting minutes (September 2, 2026). - Setting dates for public hearings and readings for the 2027 budget (Ordinance 26-61), EMS billing contract (Resolution 26-75, Ordinance 26-62), Curtis Street TIF (Ordinance 26-62, second reading), and Curtis Street TIF reimbursement agreement (Ordinance 26-63). Public Comments & Testimony - Deborah Giebert (265 W Fountain Ave) expressed concern about PJM Interconnection’s emergency order request (October 11, 2026) regarding electric reliability, citing that fossil fuel plants are being closed prematurely, threatening energy supply. - Leslie Joyner (14 Noble St) reported a recurrence of racial slurs painted on pavement near a Chinese restaurant and a hostile encounter at the Board of Elections; asked what safety measures the city has for voters. - Andy Mitchell (390 W Williams St) criticized council for ignoring his emails, questioned protections against overspending by officials, alleged constitutional violations in water shutoffs without notice, and complained about lack of response from the city attorney. Presentation: EMS Billing RFP and Transition City staff (Attorney Mosier, Procurement Specialist Cindy Collins, Fire Chief Pyle, Assistant Chief Needing) presented the transition to an EMS billing program after Delaware County ended the decades-old reimbursement contract (ending December 31, 2026). Key points: - The county reimbursement averaged over $1 million per year (5–7% of Fire/EMS revenue). - An RFP for third-party EMS billing services received seven responses; staff expects to recommend a vendor on November 9, 2026. - Three billing models were outlined: insurance-only (no out-of-pocket for residents), soft billing, and hard billing. Staff recommends insurance-only for city residents and soft billing for non-residents. - The estimated 2027 shortfall is $1.1–1.2 million; conservative billing revenue projections are $1.3 million. - The goal is to have the billing program operational by January 1, 2027, contingent on council approval. Public Hearing: Resolution No. 26-71 – Flats at Boulder Park Development Plan - Applicant: TNR Properties (RJ Sabatino) for 252 multifamily units in seven three-story buildings, with clubhouse and amenities, located in the Donovan Farms Planned Mixed Use Overlay. - Discussion: Councilman Haynes questioned density (252 of 280 permitted units) and screening from future single-family homes. Staff noted the site abuts industrial use and three stories are appropriate; additional landscaping will be added. - Outcome: Approved 4–2 (Griffith, McClellan, Fraser, Riggle yes; Haynes, Bogan no). Public Hearing & Second Reading: Ordinance No. 26-55 – Trailhead Crossing PUD Expansion - Request: Expand existing Commercial PUD by 11.746 acres east of Skyview Lane on Sunbury Road; add daycare and hotel as permitted/conditional uses. - Action: Motion to suspend rules for third reading failed 4–2 (needed 5; Griffith and Bogan voted no). The ordinance will return for third reading on November 9, 2026. Public Hearing & Second Reading: Ordinance No. 26-56 – Bowtown Road Residential PUD - Request: Rezone 12.417 acres from A-1 (Agricultural) to R-PUD for up to 252 residential units (multifamily and attached dwellings). - Discussion: Councilman Bogan expressed concerns about density (30.1 units/acre) and traffic infrastructure timing. Staff noted a TIS is underway; Bixby Parkway extension (county project scheduled for 2027) and other road improvements will be conditioned at development plan stage. - Action: Moved to third reading (due to Councilman Ryder’s absence and ward issues). Public Hearing & Second Reading: Ordinance No. 26-53 (as amended) – Northwood TIF Districts - Establishes 13 non-school residential TIF districts for the Northwood area to fund Bixby Parkway improvements (estimated $5.2 million). The TIFs are 30-year, trigger at $2 million assessed value, and keep school districts whole. - Action: Public hearing held; no public comments. Will proceed to third reading on December 14, 2026 (required 30-day wait). Annexation: Ordinance No. 26-59 – Vernon Avenue Right-of-Way - Annexation of 0.427 acres (southern half of Vernon Avenue) to align corporate boundaries with a previously approved development. - Outcome: Suspended rules and approved unanimously (6-0). Third Reading: Ordinance No. 26-52 – Community Reinvestment Area Expansion - Expanded CRA boundaries to include newly annexed territories, maintaining existing terms. Approved unanimously. Budget and Finance Actions - Ordinance 26-61 (2027 appropriations) – Referred to the Finance Committee without a vote. - Resolution 26-73 – Authorized the Finance Committee to review the 2027 budget. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 26-74 – Accepted tax levy rates for 2027 and certified to the County Auditor. Emergency clause and resolution approved unanimously. Consideration of Ordinance No. 26-62 and 26-63 – Curtis Street TIF and Agreement - Presented but no vote taken; these items will likely be addressed at a future meeting. Resolution No. 26-76 – Olentangy Hyatts High School Impact Fee Agreement - Proposal: Allow Olentangy Local School District to pay 50% of impact fees upfront and defer the remaining 50% pending appeal, to avoid construction delays. - Discussion: Councilman Bogan opposed the arrangement, arguing the district should pay in full and seek refund if appeal succeeds. City staff noted the agreement allows for a bond or letter of credit. - Outcome: Motion to approve the emergency clause failed 4–2 (Griffith, McClellan, Fraser, Riggle yes; Haynes, Bogan no). The resolution did not pass; the City Manager indicated the agreement will likely not proceed. Reports and Comments - Finance Director’s Report: Revenues through September were $157.3 million (2.3% decrease due to property tax settlement delays). Fire fund revenues down due to lack of county reimbursement. Progress on parking kiosk contract, paperless billing launch by year-end, and a new sweeper broom for the airport. - City Manager’s Report: Attended ICMA conference; paving operations ongoing; ribbon cutting for the Point bridge postponed. - Council Comments: Announcements about Veterans Day parade (Sunday, 3 PM), early voting reminder, and Halloween safety. Executive Session Council reconvened into executive session at the end of the meeting (ORC 121.22(G)(1)) to consider the appointment and employment of a public employee or official. The meeting then adjourned.

The Delaware Historic Preservation Commission met on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. Chair Riviera called the meeting to order at 6:31 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers; the agenda listed a 6:30 p.m. start. Present were Chair Riviera and Commissioners Smiles, Crognell, Watts, and Cole. The commission excused two councilmen by unanimous roll-call vote, approved the June 24, 2026 motion summary, and then considered two Certificate of Appropriateness requests. Consent Calendar - Motion Summary of the June 24, 2026 Historic Preservation Commission meeting: approved unanimously by roll-call vote. Discussion Items - Case 2026-3465 – 18 North Sandusky Street (October Ventures LLC): Staff reported that the mid-1800s building is a contributing structure in the downtown historic district, zoned downtown commercial, with prior Certificates of Appropriateness for front facade work in 2023 and rear facade work in 2024. The applicant proposed repainting the 1968 addition's painted cement block walls Roycroft bronze green to match the front; installing horizontal wood panels in American oak; installing two 60-inch-diameter externally illuminated acrylic signs and a rear door/window decal; and constructing a metal dumpster enclosure matching the building. Staff stated the proposed signs are smaller than the existing signs and would replace cabinet signs, which are not permitted downtown. Staff recommended approval with conditions, including an easement agreement with the adjacent property owner before installing the dumpster enclosure. Applicant representatives Liz Household Collins and Christopher Collins answered commissioner questions about paint coverage and sign visibility from the adjacent parking lot. The commission approved the request with staff conditions unanimously (5-0). - Case 2026-3719 – 6 North Sandusky Street (6 North Sandusky St LLC): Staff presented a request to replace six front (west elevation) windows and five rear (east elevation) windows, plus two alternates: replacing two additional front windows, and replacing one existing window and one second-floor door on the east elevation. The mid-1800s building is a contributing structure in the downtown historic district. Existing windows are deteriorated and some have been boarded up. The proposed replacements are Pella Traditional aluminum-clad wood windows in matte gray, preserving the limestone sills, headers, and masonry. Staff noted the alternates depend on agreements with adjacent property owners because of shared ownership, and recommended approval of all three requests with conditions, including coordination with the building official to ensure code compliance. Applicant representatives Tom Batcher and Matt Toddy answered questions, including confirming the door is aluminum clad and that one shortened window would keep its current rough opening. The commission approved the primary request and both alternates with the recommended conditions unanimously (5-0). Staff Comments & Discussion - Staff distributed the newest draft of the architectural standards and said the project consultant will appear at the November 18, 2026 meeting. Commissioner comments are due by Wednesday, November 11, 2026. Final adoption of the standards and updates to zoning code Chapter 1115 is planned after the consultant engagement ends in late November. - In response to commissioner questions, staff explained that the architectural standards had not been fully updated since the late 1990s, were not user-friendly or specifically numbered, and the city had just completed an 18-month zoning code update. A $25,000 Certified Local Governments grant from the State Historic Preservation Office is funding the consultant. Staff also said the state must sign off on the design guidelines, the city recertifies every two years, there is no current centralized case tracking, and the grant was extended until mid-2027. Key Outcomes - 2026-3465: Approved unanimously (5-0) with staff conditions; the dumpster enclosure easement agreement must be in place before installation. - 2026-3719: Approved unanimously (5-0) for the primary window replacement and both alternates, with conditions requiring property-owner agreements before proceeding with the alternates. - Staff will issue the official Certificates of Appropriateness before the end of the week or early the following week. - Next regular meeting: November 18, 2026. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

The City of Delaware Sister City Advisory Board convened on October 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers at City Hall, 1 S. Sandusky Street, Delaware, Ohio. The agenda included roll call, approval of the August 11, 2026 motion summary, public comment, a student video project report, and updates on the Sister City relationships with Baumholder, Germany, and Sakata, Japan. No meeting minutes or transcript were available; this summary reflects only the agenda. Consent Calendar - Approval of the Motion Summary from the Sister City Advisory Board meeting held on August 11, 2026, as recorded and transcribed, was scheduled for approval. No outcome is recorded in the available agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - The agenda provided for public comment, with speakers required to sign in with name and address and comments limited to three minutes. Emails, letters, and petitions submitted to the Council Clerk by 10 a.m. on the meeting date were to be provided to members and placed in the record. No public comment content was available because no minutes or transcript were provided. Discussion Items - Video Project: Tom Herring was scheduled to report on coordination of a student video project. No details are available from the agenda. - Sister City Updates - Baumholder, Germany: An update was listed; no details are available. - Sakata, Japan: A delegation visit is scheduled for October 2027. The agenda also listed the status of the budget request to the City; no status details are available. Key Outcomes - No votes, decisions, or directives are recorded in the available agenda. Meeting minutes and transcript were not available. - The board's next meeting is scheduled for December 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM. - The meeting was scheduled to adjourn following completion of the agenda.

The Delaware City Council met in regular session at 7:00 PM on October 12, 2026, in Council Chambers. Council first met in executive session at 6:00 PM under Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22(G)(1) to consider the appointment or employment of a public official. Members present were Ms. Griffith, Mr. Haynes, Mr. Ryder, Vice Mayor Fraser, and Mayor Riggle. All roll-call votes later in the meeting were unanimous among those present; Vice Mayor Fraser was briefly out of the chamber during the first vote on the September 28 motion summary. The council approved consent items, conducted public hearings, and took final action on multiple ordinances and a resolution, adjourning at 8:02 PM. Consent Calendar - Council approved the Motion Summary from the September 28, 2026 City Council meeting. - Council voted to strike item G from the consent calendar. That item would have rescheduled the October 12 public hearing and second reading of Ordinance 26-53 (Northwood non-school TIF for Byxbe Corridor Improvements) to October 26, 2026 at 7:25 PM. No further action on that rescheduling item occurred during the meeting. - Council unanimously approved the remaining consent items: acceptance of the Shade Tree Commission meeting summary from July 28, 2026, the Civil Service Commission meeting summary from September 2, 2026, and the Planning Commission meeting summary from September 2, 2026. - The consent calendar also set October 26, 2026 public hearing and second reading dates for Resolution 26-71 at 7:10 PM (Flats at Boulder Park development plan, 252 multi-family units), Ordinance 26-55 at 7:15 PM (C-PUD expansion; listed in the consent calendar as 22.046 acres), Ordinance 26-56 at 7:20 PM (A-1 to R-PUD on 12.417 acres, south side of Bowtown Road and Byxbe Parkway), and Ordinance 26-59 at 7:25 PM (Vernon Avenue Right-of-Way annexation, 0.427 acres). Public Comments & Testimony - Deborah Giebert, 265 West Fountain Avenue, spoke. She argued that cold weather kills about 20 times as many people as heat and presented charts she said show wildfire activity has declined over the past century if an earlier baseline is used. She expressed concern that climate risks can be made to look worse by choosing a favorable starting point. - No other members of the public came forward during the general public comment period, and no one testified during the individual public hearings. Staff Introduction and Presentation - The new GIS Coordinator, Corey Staver, was introduced. Staver is a Delaware resident of about seven years, previously served on the Planning Commission, and has city/county GIS and planning experience in western states. - Scott Brown, Central Ohio liaison for Auditor of State Keith Faber, presented the 2025 Auditor of State Award with Distinction to the City of Delaware Finance Department. Brown said his office oversees nearly 6,000 clients and performs about 4,200 audits annually, and the award places the city in the top 10 in the top 4% of those engagements. He cited the city's clean audit, timely GAP-basis financial reporting, comprehensive annual financial report, and absence of findings for recovery, material weaknesses, and significant deficiencies. He specifically recognized Finance Director Alicia for leadership. Public Hearings and Second Readings - Ordinance 26-50 (ADA Policy and Transition Plan): Staff stated the city, as an employer of more than 50 people, is required by federal law to have an ADA transition plan and policy. The existing Chapter 163 framework dates to 1992, but the five-member ADA compliance committee has never been appointed. The ordinance activates the process, designates Kim Gepper as Title II coordinator, and authorizes recruitment of the committee, with at least two members from the disability community. Recreation staff described a successful summer camp accommodation this year. No public comment was offered. Council suspended the three-reading rule and approved the ordinance unanimously. - Ordinance 26-51 (renaming Vergon Drive to Rainstone Drive): Staff explained the requested change because the existing name may be inappropriate in another language; the street is private and currently has no addresses. No public comment was offered. Council suspended the three-reading rule and approved unanimously. - Ordinance 26-52 (Delaware Community Reinvestment Area): Staff presented the annual re-establishment of the CRA and expansion of its boundaries to align with the city's corporate limits to capture newly annexed territory, including the Curtis Street Industrial Park area tied to the Guild project term sheet. Staff emphasized there are no automatic abatements, every CRA project agreement still requires council approval, and the mixed-income housing incentive is unchanged (20% of units at 60% area median income can qualify for a 10-year, 70% abatement). Staff requested a third reading rather than immediate action; council agreed. Consideration Items - First Readings - Ordinance 26-55 (zoning map amendment to expand C-PUD 25-15 for a large-box retail site near U.S. 36/S.R. 37/Sunbury Road and Sky View Lane) was read/heard without final action. The consent calendar listed the expansion as 22.046 additional acres, while agenda item 14 and the mayor's reading stated 11.746 additional acres; the transcript does not show the council or staff addressing this discrepancy. - Ordinance 26-56 (rezoning 12.417 acres on the south side of Bowtown Road and Byxbe Parkway from A-1 to R-PUD for newly annexed land allowing multi-family uses) was read/heard without final action. - Ordinance 26-59 (accepting the annexation of 0.427 acres for the Vernon Avenue Right-of-Way annexation, agent Ryan D. Crossley) was read/heard without final action. - Public hearings and second readings for Ordinances 26-55, 26-56, and 26-59 are scheduled for October 26, 2026, per the consent calendar. Other Ordinances and Resolution - Ordinance 26-47 (third reading): Council unanimously approved the Ex Flax, LLC rezoning request for approximately 1.75 acres on the west side of Lake Street and Flax Street to R-PUD for new duplex/townhomes to become part of The Mill on Flax Apartment complex. Staff reported the Chief Building Official inspected the site and issued a demolition order because the existing buildings are unsafe and blighted and cannot be saved. - Resolution 26-72: Council unanimously approved, with an emergency clause, the resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a cooperative agreement with Delaware County and submit an Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) State Capital Improvement and/or Local Transportation Improvement Programs round 41 application for the East Central Avenue reconstruction project. The project is estimated at $7.4 million, construction is planned for 2028, and the OPWC application is due in the first week of November. - Ordinance 26-57: Council unanimously approved, with an emergency clause, the Management Pay Plan amendment moving the Fleet and Traffic Division Supervisor position from M7 to M8. Staff said the change corrects pay compression after labor negotiations and allows the city to post the vacant position. - Ordinance 26-58: Council unanimously approved, with an emergency clause, the ordinance appointing Andy Baer as interim city manager. The ordinance preserves his assistant city manager position and provides compensation for the added responsibilities during the anticipated search process. City Manager's Report and Council Comments - Interim City Manager Andy Baer reported that London Road waterline work will require a westbound lane closure October 19-23, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., and a full closure of London Road west of Sandusky Street October 26-30, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., with detours posted. - He noted the Point project reached a milestone with removal of the temporary bridge beams on Friday, using only brief 4-5 minute closures and causing no major traffic delays. - He also thanked staff for hosting an Ohio State University ICMA student group on Friday and praised the Saturday downtown car show. - Committee/council comments included: BCA has no meeting this month; next meeting November 11 at 6:30 PM. Historic Preservation Commission meets October 21; Airport Commission is scheduled for October 15. - Council praised the car show's record 519 cars and its role as a fundraiser for Impact 60, promoted the Wednesday night final Movies Across Ohio 250th anniversary event in Delaware showing 42 with a panel, and noted a new mural near the Strand building. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar was approved as amended, with item G stricken. - Ordinance 26-50 and Ordinance 26-51 were approved after suspension of the three-reading rule. - Ordinance 26-52 was advanced to a third reading; no final vote was taken. - Ordinance 26-47 was approved on its third reading. - Resolution 26-72, Ordinance 26-57, and Ordinance 26-58 were each approved with emergency clauses. - Ordinances 26-55, 26-56, and 26-59 were left for future action, with public hearings/second readings scheduled on October 26, 2026. - The meeting adjourned at 8:02 PM.

The Civil Service Commission of the City of Delaware, Ohio, met on October 7, 2026, at 3:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Chair Santos presided, with Vice Chair Hurley and Commissioner Hullingshead Mansell present. The meeting lasted 7 minutes, ending at 3:37 PM. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of Motion Summary: The motion summary from the September 2, 2026 Civil Service Commission meeting was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No emails, letters, petitions, or public comments were received or presented. Discussion Items October 2026 Police Officer Certified List Police Chief Moore presented the list. Four candidates were added to the list, while three were removed: one withdrew and took employment elsewhere, one rolled off without being hired, and one was removed based on Chief Moore's recommendation after being interviewed and determined not to be hired. Three individuals on the list have received conditional employment offers, and the department aims to fill academy spots in December 2026. The motion to approve the list passed unanimously. Fire Lieutenant Promotional List 2026 Assistant Chief presented the promotional list for fire lieutenant. Five candidates participated in a process that included a written exam, an oral interview with department officers, and an assessment center administered by the Ohio Fire Chiefs Association on September 19, 2026. The list supports the filling of three lieutenant positions anticipated for the opening of Station 305, projected to open in early summer 2027. The candidates will be promoted and trained before the station opens. The motion to approve the list passed unanimously. Staff Comments - Chief Moore updated that the commission had previously approved a process for promotions to captain and sergeant. The application period has been opened and closed, with several candidates forthcoming. The process is underway in anticipation of Captain Rob Pinrod retiring in January 2027. The goal is to have the promotional lists ready for the February 2027 commission meeting. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve October 2026 Police Officer Certified List: Passed (3-0). - Motion to approve Fire Lieutenant Promotional List 2026: Passed (3-0). - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 3:37 PM.

The Delaware Planning Commission met on October 7, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included presentations on transit expansion and thoroughfare plan updates, and action on several zoning amendments, development plans, a conditional use, and a plat. All votes were unanimous except for one abstention on the approval of the previous meeting's minutes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Motion Summary (Sept. 2, 2026): Motion approved 6-0-1 (Commissioner Cross abstained). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during any of the public hearings. No email correspondence was received for any of the cases on the agenda. Presentations - Delaware County Transit Update: Andy Volenik, Executive Director, presented a proposal for a 0.2% county sales tax (excluding areas served by Cota) to fund a five-year service expansion. The tax would support moving to seven-day-a-week service (5 AM–11 PM weekdays, 8 AM–8 PM Saturday, 8 AM–4 PM Sunday), same-day demand response, express commuter service from Powell/Orange to Columbus, and new vehicles. Currently, the agency receives no local funding. Ridership has increased 174% over four years. The tax would go to voters; if approved, collections would begin in January 2027 with first receipts in April 2027. - Thoroughfare Plan Update: City Engineer Jonathan Owen presented the draft update to the city's thoroughfare plan (2026–2050). Key changes include added projects (US 42 widening, US 23 corridor improvements, reconstructions of Troy, Bowtown, Pittsburgh roads), updated project descriptions with capacity type and TIF eligibility, and a new public comment tool via a GIS map on the city website. The public comment period runs through the end of November 2026, with adoption expected in December 2026 (Planning Commission recommendation) and City Council action in January 2027. Zoning Amendments - PUD 25-15 Amendment (Target expansion at US 36/SR 37): Applicant Nutter Farm, Inc. sought to expand the existing PUD by 11.746 acres to allow a Target big-box store, add a daycare use as permitted, and hotel as conditional. Staff recommended approval. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval to City Council. First reading scheduled for October 12, public hearing October 26, third reading November 9. - PUD 26-8 (Bowtown Road – Trailhead Acquisitions): Request to rezone 12.417 acres from A-1 to R-PUD for up to 252 multifamily units. The site is recently annexed. Conditions include a 50-foot buffer along the west property line and a conservation area along the south. Staff recommended approval. Commission voted unanimously to approve the rezoning recommendation. Development Plans - PC 26-11 (Flats at Boulder Park – T&R Properties): A development plan for 252 multifamily units (seven 36-unit buildings) in Sub-Area B of Donovan Farms Planned Mixed-Use Overlay. The plan includes clubhouse, amenities, and pedestrian connections. Staff recommended approval with conditions for additional landscaping. The applicant noted intent to participate in the city's workforce housing tax abatement program. Commission approved unanimously. Conditional Uses - PC 26-10 (Golden Wrench Automotive – 253 S. Sandusky Street): Request for a minor automotive repair garage on 0.345 acres zoned C-CC. The building has two bays; no major changes planned. Staff recommended approval with conditions: all work exceeding normal noise levels must be done inside with bay doors closed, no disassembled vehicles stored outside, etc. Commission approved unanimously with staff conditions. Approval can be revoked if conditions not met. Plats - S26-16 (Bowtown Reserve – Roby Development): Final plat for 75 fee-simple townhome lots, open space, and private roads on 9.664 acres zoned R-MF. The site is at the northwest corner of Old Colony Drive and Bowtown Road. Staff recommended approval. Commission approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All five action items (two zoning amendments, one development plan, one conditional use, one plat) were approved unanimously. - The transit sales tax proposal and thoroughfare plan update are ongoing; public comment periods are open. - The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for November 4, 2026. - Commissioner Prahl announced he will not attend the November meeting; staff was asked not to schedule heavy items for that date.

The Delaware City Council held a special meeting on October 5, 2026, at 7:24 PM in Council Chambers. The sole substantive agenda item was Ordinance No. 26-54, addressing the orderly transition of the city manager's employment and designating an acting city manager. The council removed the scheduled executive session from the agenda and voted unanimously to approve the ordinance, which included an emergency clause. Agenda Action - The council voted to remove item two (executive session) from the agenda, per a motion by Vice Mayor Fraser and second by Ms. Griffith. The motion passed unanimously (7-0). Ordinance 26-54: City Manager Transition - Ordinance No. 26-54 amends the employment agreement with the city manager to provide for an orderly transition through expiration, designates an acting city manager, and declares an emergency. - The emergency clause was approved unanimously (7-0) to ensure immediate effect for continuity of city operations. - The council suspended the rule requiring three readings of the ordinance, also unanimously (7-0). - The ordinance itself was then approved unanimously (7-0). - Note: A motion to specifically designate Assistant City Manager Andy Bear as acting city manager was initially made but retracted after a point of order clarified that the ordinance already addresses this designation. Key Outcomes - Ordinance No. 26-54 passed unanimously, effective immediately. - The city manager transition process is set to proceed with the acting city manager designation as specified in the ordinance. - Further details on the transition are scheduled to be presented at the next regular council meeting on Monday. - The meeting adjourned at 7:28 PM.