Public Meetings - Delaware, Ohio

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no detailed summary can be generated. The only known information is the meeting date and time: 2026-09-28 10:45:00 UTC.

Note: The agenda lists this meeting as September 22, 2026, at 6:30 PM, while the provided official timestamp indicates September 23, 2026. This summary uses the official timestamp date. The Delaware Shade Tree Commission met to approve the July 28, 2026, meeting minutes, hear one public comment, receive the arborist's update, and review a Route 42 commercial site's street-tree planting plan. The commission approved the minutes, tabled the planting-plan review, and directed staff to revise the species list. Approval of July 28, 2026, Motion Summary - The Motion Summary from the July 28, 2026, meeting was approved as recorded and transcribed. Commissioner Kerry noted that some tree stumps ("steppings") still needed to be dropped off, and the commission agreed the record should note that the party "showed up" to handle it. Public Comments & Testimony - One written comment was received about burning bush (Euonymus alatus) being planted at the site under review. The commenter suggested a native alternative. The commission discussed recommending that the applicant substitute a different species. Arborist / Staff Updates - The 2026 Tree City USA application has been submitted, and the fall tree order is in place. Staff said planting numbers have been steady or rising. - Stump-grinding requests are currently at 22 and are expected to grow once fall stump grinding is complete; the pace is about the same as the previous year. Service requests are up, with the prior year likely ending in the high 200s. - In response to commissioner questions, staff said the city receives frequent requests for memorial or "adopt a tree" plantings; a tree service now handles the planting and provides a plaque. The old share-type program from the emerald ash borer era is no longer in place, and the city's website should be updated to reflect the current process. Discussion Items: Route 42 Commercial Site Plan Review - The commission reviewed a planting plan for a commercial site on Route 42, currently a wide-open gravel lot. The proposal would add street trees along the new road frontage and extend the right-of-way while preserving some existing trees. - Commissioners observed there are no street trees anywhere in that area and that the road is used mainly by the dealership. They questioned whether street trees make sense there and expressed concern about the ongoing maintenance burden on a two-person city forestry staff responsible for 23,000 street trees. - Members discussed a problematic precedent, citing the city recently spending about $4,500 to remove silver maples within the Central right-of-way where no sidewalk existed; residents had maintained those trees for 15-20 years until the city got the bill. Similar situations could arise with new plantings that the city would ultimately have to maintain. - The plan proposed Autumn Blaze maples along Route 42 (noted as outside the right-of-way) plus burning bush. Discussing the burning bush, one commissioner said it was "so overused and so sickly" and asked for greater diversity; New Jersey tea was raised as an important nectar source for a native butterfly, and slow-growing, shade-tolerant understory trees (such as hornbeam, maturing around 25-30 feet) were discussed as good fits for the overflow parking area. - Another commissioner favored London plane trees and noted that with the new 8-foot-wide tree lawn and changed sidewalk base material, larger street trees are now possible. - The commission agreed by consensus to table the plan until the next meeting. Staff will mark up a new plan using smaller, understory, or "maintenance-variety" trees and will recommend that the applicant choose native substitutes for burning bush. Commissioner Comments & Discussion - A commissioner raised the idea of recognizing businesses, possibly related to the memorial/legacy tree program, but did not want to consider it that day. The commission asked for research and plans to take up the topic at a future meeting. - Staff agreed to update the website to reflect the current memorial-tree process, and a commissioner offered to email material to help with that update. Key Outcomes - Approved the July 28, 2026, Motion Summary (passed by consensus; no tally recorded). - Tabled the Route 42 site plan review and directed staff to return with a revised planting plan that includes smaller understory/low-maintenance species and native alternatives to burning bush. - Deferred the business-recognition idea pending research. - Directed the city website to be updated to describe the current memorial/legacy tree program. - The revised Route 42 plan and the recognition-topic research are expected to be discussed at the next meeting.

The Delaware City Council met in regular session on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers after a 6:00 PM executive session under Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22(G)(1) to consider appointment or employment of a public official. Mayor Carolyn Kay Riggle presided; all seven council members were present. The agenda included consent approvals, a proclamation, a pedal bar business presentation, multiple public hearings on annexations, rezoning, tax incentives and development plans, the FY 2026 appropriations amendment, and two liquor license transfers. Consent Calendar - Approved, 7-0, motion summaries from the special and regular City Council meetings of August 24, 2026, and the special meeting of August 31, 2026. - Approved, 7-0, the consent agenda accepting committee minutes from Finance (Nov. 14, 2025), Parking and Safety (Jun. 30, 2026), Planning Commission (Aug. 5, 2026), Civil Service (Aug. 10, 2026), Finance (Aug. 31 and Sep. 1, 2026). - Scheduled September 28, 2026 public hearings/second readings for Ordinance 26-47 (Ex Flax rezoning at Lake/Flax), Ordinance 26-48 (Hickory Woods annexation), and Resolution 26-70 (Goodwill Men's Shelter development plan). Public Comments & Testimony - Greg Jarrell, 46 Coldstone Court, presented a petition on behalf of about 250 senior households in the Four Seasons Active 55+ community. He requested alternative traffic calming on Heritage Boulevard, including radar speed signs, pedestrian refuge islands, and high-visibility raised crosswalks, and raised safety concerns about a youth playground and connector path being built adjacent to the senior community. He called it a planning error and asked the city to alter the design, remove the connector path, and consider passive senior-appropriate amenities. - Deborah Crews, 265 W. Fountain Avenue, distributed handouts and spoke about past ice-age predictions, carbon dioxide and temperature data, and cautioned against relying on unreliable models for policy decisions. Proclamation: 40th Anniversary of the All Horse Parade - Mayor Riggle proclaimed Sunday, September 13, 2026 as All Horse Parade Day in the City of Delaware. Diane Winter accepted on behalf of the All Horse Parade Committee. Presentation: peDel Delaware Pedal Bar - Bo Tikarski, Mitchell Brown, and Ron Brown proposed a Delaware pedal bike/party bike business. They described a 14-passenger electric-assist bike, 5 mph operating speed, Ohio law treatment similar to limousines, two-hour rides with three stops, and operations planned March through November. They noted discussions with police/fire officials and said major highways such as US 36/SR 37, US 42, and US 23 would be avoided. Council members asked about parking, routes, private lot agreements, ridership, and costs; no vote was taken. Multiple council members requested a fuller staff presentation through the Parking and Safety Committee. Public Hearings & Second Readings - Ordinance 26-37 (nuisance, dangerous, and vicious dogs): Police Chief Moore presented changes to align city code with Ohio's Avery's Law, including updated definitions, penalties, and impoundment procedures. The public hearing was closed with no comment. Council suspended the three-reading rule 6-1 (Griffith no) and then approved the ordinance 7-0. - Ordinance 26-38 (Price Trusts II annexation): Attorney Elizabeth Seedorf and Planning Director Sandra Pereira presented the 175-acre annexation consistent with Resolution 26-27. Council discussed the 319-unit cap and buffer along Hills-Miller Road. No vote; moved to a third reading. - Ordinance 26-39 (Price Farms II MX-PUD expansion): Pereira presented the proposed expansion of MX-PUD 26-2 by 175 acres with subareas G-H-I-J and a future traffic impact study. No public comment; moved to another reading. - Ordinance 26-40 (19 Gruber LLC rezoning): Pereira presented the rezoning of 2.84 acres at West William and Gruber from I-1 to MX-PUD. Attorney Scott Gordon and Bill Morgan supported the proposal as a way to improve the property. No public comment; moved to a third reading. - Ordinance 26-41 (senior residential care facility rezoning): Pereira presented a rezoning of 5.386 acres at Lansdale Drive/South Houk Road from C-CC PUD to C-PUD. Jared Isenthal of Evergreen Real Estate Group described a 120-unit assisted living concept. No public comment. Council discussed emergency access and projected EMS call volume; moved to another reading. - Resolution 26-59 (Take 5 Oil Change development plan): Pereira presented the 0.807-acre plan on Sunbury Road. The public hearing was closed with no comment. The resolution was corrected for a date error and approved as amended 7-0. - Resolution 26-60 (Snappy's Automotive development plan): Pereira presented the 3.039-acre plan at Liberty Road and Belle Avenue. Applicant Chris Winkle requested approval of a rear material change from stone wainscoting to split-faced block and explained agreed parking/path changes. The public hearing was closed with no comment. Approved as amended 6-1 (Bogan no). - Ordinance 26-42 (Sawmill Parkway TIF): Economic Development Director Nie Langford presented the eight-district residential TIF, 100% new-improvement exemption, estimated 687 units and $258 million in new building value, with payments to school districts/career center and repayment of about $8.7 million to the county. No public comment; moved to another reading. - Ordinance 26-43 (Mason Hunt LLC/Snappy's CRA): Logan Brunney presented the request as a 10-year real property tax abatement with school compensation; in discussion, staff described it as effectively a 10-year, 70% abatement (65% after the school district compensation payment). Public hearing closed with no comment. A motion to suspend three readings failed 4-3 (Haynes, McClellan, Frazier, Riggle yes; Griffith, Rider, Bogan no); ordinance moved to another reading. - Ordinance 26-44 (Howald Properties CRA): Brunney presented the 15-year, 100% real property tax exemption for a new multi-tenant flex industrial building at 320 London Road. John Howald said demand is very high and he maintains a waiting list. Public commenter Deborah Guebert questioned special abatements for businesses and suggested lowering property tax rates generally. No vote; moved to another reading. - Ordinance 26-45 (Sawmill Delaware Investments/FedOne CRA): Langford presented a 15-year, 75% CRA for a second speculative industrial building at 119 Innovation Court, a $12.25 million project. David Poe of FedOne asked for approval that evening to pursue construction financing and begin work before winter. Public hearing closed. Council suspended three readings 6-1 (Rider no) and approved the ordinance 7-0. Other Second Readings and Resolutions - Ordinance 26-46 (FY 2026 appropriations, as amended): Finance Director Alycia Hefner outlined third-quarter appropriation adjustments, including $50,000 for emergency airport fuel system repairs and personnel/risk-management items. Council suspended readings 7-0, approved the emergency clause 7-0, and approved the ordinance 7-0. - Resolution 26-61 (2027-2031 Five-Year Capital Improvement Program): Hefner said a full presentation would be provided at the next meeting. Approved 6-0 (Griffith temporarily absent during the vote). - Resolution 26-67 (Strategic Action Plan): City Manager Paul Brake said additional revisions were still being prepared. Council asked to see final revisions before voting; moved to another reading. First Readings and Future Items - Ordinance 26-47 (Ex Flax rezoning): Read for the first time; public hearing and second reading set for September 28, 2026. - Ordinance 26-48 (Hickory Woods annexation): Read for the first time; public hearing and second reading set for September 28, 2026. - Ordinance 26-49 (Spring Street property conveyance for downtown hotel): Read for the first time; Langford said a full presentation would come September 28, 2026. - Resolution 26-68 (ODOT SR 37 resurfacing agreement): City Engineer Jonathan Owen reported the city share remains $330,000. Approved 7-0. - Resolution 26-69 (Tax Incentive Review Council annual report): City Attorney David Moser explained new state confidentiality rules under ORC 9.66. Brunney reported 20 CRA agreements reviewed, with 11 fully compliant, nine on the consideration agenda (five within grace period), and four companies citing workforce shortages, tariffs, or vacancy/backfill issues. Council received confidential packets and moved the resolution to another reading; an executive session option was discussed. - Liquor license transfers (AVI Food Systems to Aramark at two Ohio Wesleyan University locations): Police Chief Moore reported no objections. Approved without objection 7-0. Committee Reports & City Manager's Report - Council committee reports included upcoming Parks and Recreation and Shade Tree meetings, Historical Preservation Commission on Wednesday, no BZA meeting, and multiple Finance Committee sessions. - City Manager Brake reported August 2026 contract approvals, most notably the nearly $3 million Kingsbury Athletic Fields project awarded to Sweet Meadows Farm, and an emergency expenditure for airport fuel tank repair work already covered in the budget amendment. Key Outcomes - Approved consent calendar, dog ordinance, Take 5 development plan, Snappy's development plan, FedOne CRA, FY 2026 appropriations, five-year CIP, ODOT resurfacing agreement, and liquor license transfers. - Failed to suspend readings for Ordinance 26-43, sending it to another reading. - Continued multiple annexation, rezoning, TIF, CRA, and Strategic Action Plan items to future meetings, with several public hearings scheduled for September 28, 2026. - No formal action was taken on the peDel pedal bar presentation; staff review was requested.

The City of Delaware Finance Committee met Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The committee approved prior meeting summaries, heard the final Capital Improvement Plan presentations from Fire Chief Tim Pyle and City Engineer Jonathan Owen, and unanimously voted to recommend the 2027-2031 CIP to full Council. No public comments were offered. Consent Calendar - Approved the Motion Summary from the Finance Committee meeting held on August 31, 2026, as recorded and transcribed. - Approved the Motion Summary from the Finance Committee meeting held on September 1, 2026, as recorded and transcribed. - Both approvals passed unanimously, with Mayor Riggle, Vice Chair McClellan, and Chair Haynes voting yes. Public Comments & Testimony - No audience members signed up to speak or addressed the committee. - No emailed, written, or petition correspondence was received. Fire/EMS Capital Improvement Plan – Chief Tim Pyle - Pyle presented the 2027 Fire/EMS CIP, covering AED grant funding, technology replacement, Station 305 outfitting, and future Station 301 remodeling. - AEDs cost approximately $1,200–$1,500 each; the fire department currently has 43 AEDs; schools purchase their own. - Station 301 was built in 1972 and remodeled in 1997; new boiler, furnace, and air conditioning were installed last year after deferred replacements failed. Funds are being set aside for a future remodel, though it may not occur in 2027. - Equipment items include $100,000 for outfitting the new paramedic unit, with $70,000–$75,000 of that for the power cot and loading system; a 20-year-old inflatable boat that remains serviceable; a 25-year-old hazmat trailer deferred pending county discussions; and a staff vehicle on the 10-year replacement plan costing $100,000 including equipment, with the vehicle itself about $49,900 and equipment roughly double that. - The 2012 ladder truck replacement is priced at $2.25 million plus about $200,000 in equipment, with a 32–48 month lead time. The existing ladder truck would be kept as the city’s first reserve ladder. - The plan also includes a mower for Station 305. Engineering Capital Improvement Plan – Jonathan Owen - Owen presented the 2027-2031 Engineering Division CIP, highlighting new area-wide plans, the return of a small local paving program, and efforts to limit general fund allocations. - Total engineering CIP expenses over the seven-year planning period are $227 million. For the five-year period, funding is 44% grants, 40% non-discretionary city funds, and 17% general fund allocations; grant funding by year ranges from 15% to 66%. The general fund allocation is as low as 4% in 2030. - A member asked about the high-cost 2030 year; Owen noted that year includes the Glenn Parkway railroad crossing project, a $40 million project alone. - Key projects include: a $2 million+ ODOT safety grant for pedestrian connectivity with a 90/10 local match, filling sidewalk gaps on West Williams, US 36, South Sandusky, London, and Lake, with construction in 2028; a $6.3 million West Central Avenue/CSX railroad lowering with an alternative bridge-raising option under discussion; and intersection improvements at Euclid/West Central, West William/Curtis, and Vernon/Channing. - East Central Avenue reconstruction has more than $2 million in MORPC grant funding and is scheduled for 2028. The Lake/Central intersection is Owen’s top priority on the existing road network; MPO funding is being sought, a federal earmark request was unsuccessful, and the projects may be merged if funding allows. - Northwest projects include the Merrick Boulevard improvements, a roundabout under construction with Troy Road currently closed, and a future railroad overpass phase in 2030. - Southeast projects include the Glenn Parkway extension to US 36, with a $30.8 million federal grant request and a $1.2 million Ohio Rail Development Commission commitment; an underpass is estimated at $42 million, while an overpass would cost $20–25 million. - Southwest projects plan for US 42 to become a four-lane corridor; phase one is nearly $20 million, with $1.5 million in state grant funds, $1.3 million in developer contributions, and TIFF revenue supporting it. Phase two is penciled in for 2036 at $13 million. - East area projects include Bixby Parkway work, future Bowtown Road/521 improvements, and a possible roundabout concept. Owen noted that the Merrick railroad overpass embankment was built early to avoid disruption after housing development. Member Comments - Chair Haynes praised the CIP as one of the city’s better CIPs, citing the area-wide plans and grant opportunities. Key Outcomes - The committee voted unanimously to recommend the 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Plan to full Council. - The committee approved both consent calendar motion summaries unanimously. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:35 p.m.

The Finance Committee of the City of Delaware met on September 3, 2026 at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall. The meeting was live-streamed. The agenda included roll call, approval of motion summaries from August 31 and September 1, 2026, public comment, and a presentation on the 2027–2031 Capital Improvement Plan by Fire Chief Tim Pyle (Fire/EMS) and City Engineer Jonathan Owen. Member comments and adjournment followed. No transcript or minutes were provided, so no discussion details, decisions, or public comments are available.

The Civil Service Commission of Delaware, Ohio, met on September 2, 2026, at 3:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Commissioners Hollyhead Mansell, Vice Chair Hurley, and Chair Santos were present. The meeting covered approvals of certified employment lists and updated promotional processes for the fire and police departments, and included discussion of training requirements. Consent Calendar - Approval of Motion Summary (August 10, 2026): Unanimously approved as recorded. Public Comments - None received. Discussion Items - September 2026 Firefighter Certified List: Fire Chief Pyle reported nine changes: seven new hires (six allocated to the upcoming new fire station) and two removals (one candidate passed up five times per rules, one disqualified for not passing all test components). The list was approved unanimously. - September 2026 Police Certified List: Police Chief Moore presented an updated list of 24 candidates; two have received conditional offers and will begin the Delaware County Sheriff's Office academy on December 9, 2026. Chief Moore described academy costs: free for the city when using the State Highway Patrol academy (funded by casino gambling revenue), while other academies cost $5,000–$6,000 per candidate plus salary and equipment. The list was approved unanimously. - 2026 Police Captain Recruitment Process: Human Resources representative Ms. Faust outlined a revised process partnering with an external entity to ensure impartiality. Scoring will be 50% oral interview and 50% assessment center (excluding seniority points). Approved unanimously. - Police Sergeant Promotional Process (Revised August 2026): Ms. Faust detailed a three-component scoring system: written exam (40%), oral interview (40%), and a leadership assessment via Pradco (20%). The written exam is now customized to Delaware-specific policies, collective bargaining agreements, and state law, addressing feedback from unions about over-reliance on a single vendor. Chief Moore explained the multi-phase design aims to test different competencies predictive of supervisory success. Approved unanimously. - Firefighter Training Discussion (Commissioner Comments): A commissioner asked about firefighter training. Chief Pyle stated entry-level requirements include Firefighter I & II certification (approx. 300 hours) and EMT basic (150 hours), plus paramedic school (1,100 hours over 15 months) covering clinical rotations in cardiac lab, OB, trauma, and pediatrics. Key Outcomes - All four agenda items (firefighter list, police list, captain recruitment process, sergeant promotional process) were approved unanimously by the commission. - The meeting adjourned at 3:51 PM.

The Delaware Planning Commission met from 6:30 p.m. to 8:43 p.m. on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, in Council Chambers at City Hall in Delaware, Ohio. Commissioners acted on a conditional use request, a zoning map amendment, a development plan for a men's shelter, three plats, and received engineering and planning updates. Commissioners Cross and Wriggle were absent; Commissioner Prahl arrived after the initial votes. Opening and Approval of Minutes - The commission voted to excuse the members who were not present. - The motion summary of the August 5, 2026 Planning Commission meeting was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - On PUD 26-7, Christina Swartz of 79 Webb Street expressed concerns about additional traffic, construction noise, litter, and the size of a proposed three-story building on the east side. - Joseph Amato of 103 Lake Street said he supported neighborhood improvements but was concerned about the loss of parking, future parking demand, and poorly maintained nearby properties owned by a corporation. - A Webb Street resident asked whether water, sewer, and electric utilities could handle more development, citing flickering lights in the neighborhood. - Joseph Amato also raised concerns about an existing storm sewer that has backed up and flooded his basement, asking whether the city would update stormwater infrastructure. - No public comments were offered on the Goodwill Men's Shelter development plan. Old Business: Conditional Use PC 26-8 – 163 North Franklin Street - The applicant representative for Jablonka Real Estate Partners said the property was already framed for nine guest rooms by the previous owner, and that the plan is to finish construction, sell the property to an owner-operator, and run an owner-occupied bed-and-breakfast rather than a commercial hotel. He said there is no proposed addition, roof deck, hot tub, or entertainment use, and noted that a privacy fence condition had been added based on neighbor feedback. - Staff clarified that a conditional use is a permitted use with conditions, remains attached to the property, and is decided by the Planning Commission. Staff also distinguished conditional uses from variances, rezoning, and registered short-term rentals. - Several commissioners expressed concern about introducing a commercial conditional use into the R-NT residential neighborhood. The chair declined to reopen the public hearing because it had already been opened and closed at the August 5 meeting. - The motion to approve with staff conditions failed 2-3. Commissioners Feller, Prahl, and Nana voted no; Commissioners Stroud and Simpson voted yes. The conditional use was therefore denied. Regular Business: PUD 26-7 – Lake Street and Flax Street Rezoning - Staff presented a request by Ex Flax, LLC to rezone approximately 1.75 acres from various zoning districts to R-PUD. The conceptual plan includes two-, three-, and four-family dwellings, cluster single-family development, multifamily development, recreation, and conditional neighborhood commercial uses, with a maximum of 66 dwelling units at a density of about 38 units per acre. - Staff said the site is largely vacant with some existing residences, that no traffic impact study was required because the project is below the threshold, and that recommended conditions include right-of-way dedication, roadway improvements, a future contribution to the Lake Street/East Central Avenue intersection project, and sidewalk and street-tree improvements. - Applicant representative Barbara Jordan said Ex Flax was excited about the project and had no concerns with the conditions. - Commission discussion noted that the carriage house on 105 Lake Street would be demolished, and commissioners acknowledged public concerns about utilities, stormwater, and parking. - The commission voted 5-0 to recommend approval to City Council. A City Council public hearing is scheduled for September 28, 2026, and a detailed development plan will return for further review. Regular Business: PC 26-9 – Goodwill Men's Shelter Development Plan - Staff presented a development plan for a 16-bed men's shelter on 1.076 acres at 21 Vergon Drive within the Greenwood Commons / Flats at Sugar Run Planned Mixed-Use Overlay. The approximately 5,800-square-foot building would include 16 rooms with private bathrooms, shared space, offices, staff on site, outdoor recreation areas, 16 parking spaces, and a fenced outdoor area. - Staff said the shelter site was set aside as part of the original PMU zoning and that Goodwill will operate the facility. Staff recommended approval with conditions. - Applicant representative Ron Sabatino said the shelter would serve nonviolent individuals who are homeless or coming from jail, typically for one to several months, and that Goodwill would help connect residents with jobs. He said the land is being donated to Goodwill, noted that a building permit had already been obtained, and criticized city water and sewer tap fees as excessive for a nonprofit project. - Commission members commended the Goodwill partnership and discussed whether the use could be flexible for family sheltering in the future; one commissioner noted there is also a need for more family shelters. - The commission voted 5-0 to approve the development plan with all staff conditions. Plats - S 26-13 – Glennwood Commons Replat: The Gandee Heydinger Group, LLC request to replat approximately 18.44 acres into three lots in the C-CC PMU district was approved 4-0, with Vice Chair Nana out of the room during the vote. - S 26-14 – PPG Industries Final Plat: The request to combine lots and dedicate right-of-way and easements on 95.59 acres zoned I-2 at 760 and 876 Pittsburgh Drive was approved 5-0. - S 26-15 – Byers Ford Combined Preliminary and Final Plat: The request to combine lots and dedicate right-of-way on 9.54 acres at 994 and 998 Stratford Road and 976 Havens Road was approved 5-0. City Engineer Updates - City Engineer Owen presented a Sandusky Street road diet study. The study area ran from Olentangy Avenue to Central Avenue. Crash data for 2022-2024 showed 141 total crashes, 2 serious injuries, 29 minor injuries, and no fatalities. The study projected about 9,000 vehicles per day by 2050 and found the worst peak-hour level of service would be C, meaning a road diet is feasible from a traffic operations standpoint. The engineer said a road diet could shorten pedestrian crossings and improve safety, but no streetscape project is proposed in the 2027-2031 capital improvement plan. - One commissioner expressed personal opposition to the road diet concept, saying the city needs more capacity and worrying that it could make it harder to pass future road levies. Another commissioner raised safety concerns about the Lake and Winter intersection; the engineer said the planned Lake/Central project could address that blind spot. - The engineer also presented the US 42 and Sawmill Road corridor study. The study reviewed 13 intersections and recommended that US 42 eventually be widened to four lanes, with access management, a new signal near Owen Fraley Road, and a future JEGS Boulevard extension. Phase 1 improvements were estimated at $19-20 million with construction planned for 2032, and phase 2 was estimated at $13 million with construction penciled in for 2036. Identified funding includes a $1.5 million Ohio Department of Development grant and $1.3 million in direct contributions from the Addison development. - Commission discussion included an informal straw poll in favor of considering a roundabout at 42 and Sawmill, but no formal action was taken on either engineering presentation. Planning Director's Report and Commission Comments - The planning director reported that City Council has decided not to extend the city manager's contract into 2027, but said it will be business as usual during the transition. - Staff are working on architectural standards for the historic district and the South Side focus area plan, with presentations expected before the end of the year. - Commission members thanked staff and the city engineer and requested more engineering updates in future meetings. Key Outcomes - August 5, 2026 motion summary approved unanimously. - PC 26-8 conditional use for the boutique hotel at 163 North Franklin Street was denied 2-3. - PUD 26-7 rezoning at Lake and Flax Streets was recommended for approval to City Council by a 5-0 vote. - PC 26-9 Goodwill Men's Shelter development plan was approved 5-0. - S 26-13 Glennwood Commons Replat was approved 4-0. - S 26-14 PPG Final Plat was approved 5-0. - S 26-15 Byers Ford Combined Preliminary/Final Plat was approved 5-0. - The next regular Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for October 7, 2026. The meeting adjourned at 8:43 p.m.

The Delaware City Council held a special meeting on August 31, 2026, at 7:30 PM to consider the renewal of the City Manager's employment agreement. After discussion, the council voted 5-2 to approve the renewal. Council members and the City Manager offered remarks. Discussion Items - City Manager Employment Agreement Renewal: Council discussed the renewal of City Manager Brake's employment agreement. Mayor Rickle (as listed on the agenda; the transcript refers to "Mayor Viggle") opened the floor. Council member Bogan made a motion to renew, seconded by Griffith. The vote was 5 in favor (Griffith, Haynes, McClellan, Bogan, Vice Mayor Frazier) and 2 opposed (Ryder, Mayor Rickle). City Manager Brake expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and respect for the council's decision. Several council members spoke in appreciation of Mr. Brake's contributions and the thoughtful deliberations that took place in executive session. One council member noted that the closed sessions allowed for candid discussion out of respect for the individual. Key Outcomes - Renewal Approved: The motion to renew the City Manager's employment agreement passed by a vote of 5-2. - Contract Status: It was clarified that the contract remains effective through the end of its current term, even though the vote was on renewal (the transcript mentions "notice of non-renewal," likely a misstatement; the contract continues). - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 7:36 PM. Note: The agenda lists the mayor as Mayor Rickle, but the transcript refers to "Mayor Viggle." This discrepancy is recorded but does not affect the outcome.

The Finance Committee of the City of Delaware, Ohio, met on August 31, 2026, at 5:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The primary agenda item was the introduction and review of the 2027–2031 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Committee members elected a chair and vice chair, approved the prior meeting’s motion summary, and heard detailed presentations from city staff on parks and police capital needs. Consent Calendar - Approved the Motion Summary from the November 14, 2025 Finance Committee meeting. Roll call: Mr. McClellan abstained, Mr. Haynes abstained, Mayor Rickel voted yes. The motion carried. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public came forward to speak. Discussion Items - Election of Chair and Vice Chair: Mr. Haynes nominated Mr. Haynes for chair; seconded and carried unanimously (McClellan yes, Haynes yes, Mayor Rickel yes). Mr. McClellan was nominated for vice chair and elected unanimously. - Introduction to the CIP by City Manager Paul Brake: Brake explained the CIP as a multi-year tool to preserve city assets, adapt to financial forecasts and strategic priorities. He highlighted that the general fund contributes about $4 million, leveraged by state funds, impact fees, and other sources. The 2027–2031 plan is a seven-year span (vs. the usual five) and is organized by geography rather than department to improve transparency and coordinated planning (e.g., concurrent waterline replacements and street paving). - Overview by Assistant City Manager Andy Beare and Director Alycia Hefner: Beare described three themes: safety/security, leveraging grants/utility funds, and regional planning. Hefner presented the general fund summary, noting a significant starting balance due to lower-than-budgeted roof costs. She acknowledged projected deficits in out-years but stated they provide a roadmap for grant-seeking or project adjustments. - Engineering and Other Department Updates: Beare noted that engineering presentations would occur later in the week. IT items (security cameras, phone system) are largely in the operating budget, with some larger purchases in the CIP. City manager’s office initiatives include a safety assessment of city hall ($50,000 budgeted), municipal storage at Kingsbury Park, and streetscape adjustments pending Columbia Gas negotiations. - Parks and Natural Resources Presentation by JP Lincoln (Recreation Superintendent): - Building Maintenance: Air handlers and entry remodel at City Hall; jury room remodel at Justice Center; snow/ice guards at public works; HVAC and ceiling insulation at Unity Community Center; tuckpointing at Fire Station 301; roof and HVAC at Fire Station 302. - Equipment: Zero-turn mowers for Hidden Valley Golf Course, Oak Grove Cemetery, and parks (replaced annually, saving on trade-in value). New turf sprayer (non-replacement). Replacement of two 3/4-ton trucks, a 23-year-old tractor, and a finish mower. - Play Equipment/Courts: Reseal and reline basketball courts at Kensington Park and Stratford Park (past due). - Park Improvements: New prefab restroom at Blue Limestone Park (existing restroom built ca. 1952/56, replaced multiple times). Turf replacement at Veterans Park (bonded rubber, 10-year lifespan, now due). - River and Delaware Run Corridor: Funds for easements/land acquisition, trail construction, and a bridge from the golf course to Grady Hospital, connecting Willow Brook to the golf course. A possible property purchase with Willow Brook is under discussion. - Kingsbury Park Improvements: Additional funds requested for dirt work and building construction for the parks department facility. - South Community Park: Funds set aside for land acquisition and development of a large community park with spray park, gym space, and recreation center (similar to Mingo Park), anticipating growth along Glenn Parkway. - Police Department Presentation by Chief Adam Moore: - 2026 Accomplishments: Replaced a large drone with two medium-sized drones (Matrix 30T and 4T) to increase deployability; added Drone Sense streaming capability; issued RFP for parking kiosks (34 kiosks in two phases, total cost $350,000, partially budgeted). - 2027 Requests: - Speed Technology ($30,000): To purchase data-driven speed control equipment (e.g., stealth stats, speed feedback signs, or warning trailers that send friendly notices—not enforcement cameras without an officer present). - Cruisers: Replace four front-line cruisers per year (current fleet of 12 front-line cars, each with three shifts, 30,000–35,000 miles/year). Savings from equipment transfers (about $8,000/car) may not always be possible due to manufacturer changes. Replacement cycle allows reuse by other city departments before auction. - Specialty Vehicles ($130,000): Replace a 14-year-old Ford Expedition (drone vehicle) and a 12-year-old van (evidence collection); replace one unmarked police vehicle (Chevy Blazer likely, but GM may only offer electric version in 2028). - Future Needs (not in 2027 CIP): Replacement of tasers (currently phased out model), duty pistols (10-year cycle, due around 2031), large drone replacement, additional cruisers for fleet growth, and eventual dog replacements ($25,000 each plus cruiser). - Justice Center: Built in 1992 for 29 officers; now authorized 63 officers, no desk space for two new hires. Chief stressed long-term need for a new or expanded facility, noting that even if started today, it would take 4–6 years. 2029 CIP includes $120,000 for potential improvements (carport, security fencing). - Chief’s Closing: Noted that the department serves a full range from parking tickets to homicides, citing a recent week with a suicide, homicide, officer-involved shooting, severe weather, and a suspect surrender. He emphasized that equipment investments have real-world safety impacts. - IT Presentation: Chair Haynes proposed moving the IT presentation to this meeting to shorten a later meeting. However, after consulting the city attorney, the agenda was kept as advertised, so IT was not presented. Key Outcomes - Elections: Adam Haynes elected Chair (unanimous); Mr. McClellan elected Vice Chair (unanimous). - CIP Review: No formal votes were taken on the CIP; the presentations were informational. The CIP will be a roadmap for future budgets and grant applications. - Parking System: Chief Moore confirmed that 34 kiosks will replace most existing meters (currently <50% functional). The primary goal is turnover, not profit, though maintenance costs should drop. - Justice Center: Chief Moore placed a long-term need for a new facility on the record; future council discussion expected. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned by motion following member comments.