Public Meetings - Delaware, Ohio

The Delaware City Council held a regular meeting on August 24, 2026, beginning with a 6:30 PM executive session for pending court action, followed by the regular session at 7:00 PM. The council approved consent items, heard public comments, received presentations on public health and a major traffic study, approved several liquor licenses and economic development incentives, and discussed the city’s strategic action plan and infrastructure concerns. Consent Calendar - Approval of Meeting Minutes: Motion summaries from the July 27, 2026 regular meeting and the August 15, 2026 special meeting were approved. - Consent Agenda: Accepted committee and commission summaries (Public Works/Public Utilities, Shade Tree, Sister City Advisory Board, Civil Service Commission, Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals) and set public hearing dates for ordinances 26-37 through 26-45 and resolutions 26-59, 26-60, all to be heard on September 14, 2026. These routine items were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Deborah Gebert (265 West Fountain Avenue) argued that sea‐level rise is not accelerating and is not primarily caused by carbon dioxide, citing images of wealthy coastal properties to question climate change urgency. - Lily Legando (177 Euclid) expressed serious concerns about Flock automated license plate readers in the city, stating they constitute 24/7 AI surveillance that reads license plates and cannot be opted out of. She noted 71% misread rates reported by NPR and warned of potential misuse, including stalking and wrongful arrests, especially affecting children walking to school. Discussion Items - Delaware Public Health District Update: Jeff Gibbs, Director of Environmental Health, reported on mosquito surveillance following recent flooding. Only 231 mosquitoes have been trapped in the city so far, but numbers are expected to rise. He announced a free tire drive on October 3 at the Delaware County Fairgrounds; last year 1,547 tires were collected, with 50% from the 43015 zip code. Tires are recycled by Willet Tire. - Sandusky Street Corridor Traffic Study: City Engineer Jonathan Owen and Kevin Westbrook of GDP Group presented a feasibility study on converting Sandusky Street from a 4–5 lane roadway to a three-lane road diet (one lane each direction plus center turn lane). The study found 141 crashes in 2022–2024, with 75% potentially reduced by a road diet. Traffic volumes around 9,000 vehicles per day (projected to 2050) are well within the threshold for feasibility. Level of service would remain at A–C under the 2050 projections. The freed-up space (up to 13 feet per side) could be used for wider sidewalks, bike lanes, or angle parking. Council members asked about combining uses and the potential for a pedestrian mall downtown. Next steps include preliminary engineering in 2027, with public engagement to follow. - Liquor License Requests: Two new C1/C2 permits (beer and wine for off-premises consumption) were considered. CVS at 1725 Central Avenue (previously lapsed license, minor violations 10 years ago) was approved 6–1 (Mr. Ryder dissenting). Kroger at 1650 Sunbury Road (new store) was approved 7–0. No statutory objections were identified. - Ordinances Set for Public Hearing (September 14, 2026): First readings were held for ordinances 26-37 through 26-45, covering dangerous dog regulations (Avery’s Law), annexation of Price Farms II (175 acres), rezoning of multiple sites, creation of Sawmill Parkway TIF districts, and Community Reinvestment Area agreements for Snappy’s Automotive, Howald Industrial Park, and FedOne Airport project. All were scheduled for second reading and public hearing on September 14. - Ordinance 26-46 (Third Quarter Budget Amendments): First reading held. The supplemental includes $110,000 for salt, fuel increase due to gas prices, a refuse truck (3–4 year lead time), and TIF surplus distribution. Will return for second reading. - Resolution 26-61 (Five-Year Capital Improvement Program): Referred to the Finance Committee for detailed review starting September 2026. - Resolution 26-63 (Wieland Onda Incentive Grant): Approved 6–1 (Mr. Ryder dissenting). This five-year income tax sharing agreement supports a new 100,000 sq ft manufacturing facility at 115 Innovation Court, with $24 million investment, 100 new jobs, and $6.7 million new payroll. The company manufactures heat exchangers for data centers. - Resolution 26-64 (CRA Assignment): Approved 7–0 with emergency clause. Assigns the Community Reinvestment Area agreement for 2039 Pittsburgh Drive from TCC Delaware II to SRRT 2039 Industrial DST. The building is 255,000 sq ft, leased by Lubata and Vertive. The assignment preserves existing CRA terms. - Resolution 26-65 (EMS Reimbursement Agreement): Approved 7–0. Renews 2026 intergovernmental agreement with Delaware County for EMS reimbursement, now funded through a new mechanism (not sales tax). Allows collection of over $1 million in billed but unremitted funds. Discussions for 2027 will begin later. - Resolution 26-66 (Fincon Gregory Annexation Services): Approved 7–0 with emergency clause. Indicates the city will provide utility, fire, police, refuse, and road maintenance services to 116.665 acres (four parcels) south of Berlin Station Road, consistent with statutory requirements. - Resolution 26-67 (Strategic Action Plan): Presented by City Manager Breck. The plan covers 2026–2028 priorities: fiscal sustainability, economic diversification, regional partnerships, community connectivity, and parking/mobility. Council members requested more measurable deadlines, clearer goals, addition of health care partner recruitment, and stronger infrastructure oversight. No vote taken; the plan will be revised and brought back. - Finance Director’s Report: A redesigned report with graphs highlighted overall city finances, income tax collections (including $108,000 from new enforcement), major fund updates, water fund customer feedback, parking kiosk contract negotiations, and insurance trends. Council praised the new format. - City Manager’s Report: Reported $1.7 million in July contracts and noted that Norfolk Southern has begun using the new permanent bridge at the Point Project; the old bridge will be removed soon, with intermittent lane closures. - Council Comments: Councilman Haynes clarified that Flock cameras only capture vehicle rear/license plates, not faces. Police Chief Moore confirmed 17 city-owned cameras, no plans to expand, and a robust use policy. Councilwoman Griffith noted she and the Vice Mayor observed a demonstration. Councilman Ryder raised concerns about recent flooding (three “100-year storms” in six years) and asked for a stormwater infrastructure plan. City Manager Breck acknowledged the issue and promised a proactive dialogue. Ryder also questioned water use data discrepancies. Councilwoman Griffith praised the baby expo and Shade Tree Commission cooperation. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous): Motion summaries, consent agenda, liquor licenses (Kroger), resolutions 26-64, 26-65, 26-66 (all with emergency where needed). - Approved (6–1): Liquor license for CVS (Ryder dissenting); Resolution 26-63 (Wieland Onda incentive grant). - Set for September 14, 2026 hearings: Ordinances 26-37 through 26-45 and resolutions 26-59, 26-60. - First reading held: Ordinance 26-46 (budget amendments). - Referred to Finance Committee: Resolution 26-61 (CIP). - No vote taken: Resolution 26-67 (Strategic Action Plan) will be revised and re-presented.

The Delaware City Council held a special meeting on August 24, 2026, at 4:30 PM at City Hall Council Chambers. The sole agenda item was a motion to enter executive session under Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22(G)(1) to consider the appointment or employment of a public official. All seven council members were present and voted unanimously to enter the session. Executive Session - The motion to enter executive session was made under Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22(G)(1) for the appointment or employment of a public official. - After a roll call vote, the motion passed unanimously with all seven members voting yes. - The meeting moved into executive session; the raw transcript ends as the council began the closed session, so any later action or adjournment was not captured. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval to enter executive session for the stated personnel matter. - No other open-session business was discussed or acted upon. - Adjournment was not recorded in the available transcript.

The City Council held a special meeting on August 15, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 12:10 PM. The meeting focused on authorizing the engagement of special counsel for the city manager's annual performance evaluation and entering executive session to discuss appointment or employment of a public official. Letter of Engagement - Council unanimously approved a motion to authorize the engagement of Fishel Downey Albrecht & Riepenhoff LLP as special counsel to assist with the city manager's annual performance evaluation, employment agreement, and related matters. The mayor was authorized to execute the engagement letter. (Motion by Vice Mayor Fraser, seconded by Dr. Bogan; vote: 7-0) Executive Session - Council unanimously voted to enter executive session pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22(G)(1) to consider the appointment or employment of a public official. (Motion by Vice Mayor Fraser, seconded by Dr. Bogan; vote: 7-0) Key Outcomes - Approved engagement of special counsel (unanimous). - Approved executive session (unanimous). - Meeting adjourned at 12:10 PM.

On Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 6:30 PM, the City of Delaware Board of Zoning Appeals held a meeting in City Hall Council Chambers. The primary matter was a variance request from Kessler Sign Company on behalf of Ohio Health to install a second monument sign at 6 Lexington Boulevard. After discussion and testimony, the Board voted 5-0 to approve the variance with conditions. Consent Calendar - The motion summary from the July 8, 2026 Board of Zoning Appeals meeting was approved unanimously without modification. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the public hearing. The applicant, Mr. Kessler of Kessler Sign Company, presented the case and answered board questions. Discussion Items - Variance Request (Case V26-9): Kessler Sign Company sought a variance from Section 1125.09(a)(4) of the zoning code, which limits properties in the C-NX (Commercial Neighborhood Mixed) district to one monument sign. The property at 6 Lexington Boulevard already has a monument sign on Central Avenue; the applicant wished to add a second monument sign on Lexington Boulevard to identify the Ohio Health medical office and reduce patient confusion and safety risks. - Applicant Testimony (Mr. Kessler): Mr. Kessler explained that the previous monument sign on Lexington Boulevard had been repeatedly damaged and was ultimately removed for safety. Without it, patients often mistake Ohio Health's 12 Lexington Boulevard facility for 6 Lexington Boulevard, leading to wrong turns and unsafe U-turns. The new sign would be 16.5 square feet (3 feet by 5.5 feet), smaller than the code maximum of 25 square feet, and would clearly direct patients to the correct entrance. He emphasized that Ohio Health has 400 similar facilities and knows what is needed for safe wayfinding. He stated, “It’s not about selling more signs; it’s about getting people there in a safe and orderly manner.” - Staff Presentation (David): Staff described the property’s zoning history: originally in a multifamily district, it was rezoned to C-NX in July 2025 after the sign was removed. Under the current code, only one monument sign is permitted per street frontage unless the lot is wide; the existing Central Avenue sign counts as the property’s one permitted monument sign. Staff noted that alternatives exist, such as moving the Central Avenue sign to Lexington Boulevard or using smaller driveway signs (up to 3 square feet, one per travel direction) with address information. Staff recommended denial, stating there was no demonstrated hardship and the variance could be obviated by other means. - Board Discussion: Board members questioned the applicant and staff about the feasibility of alternatives, the historic non-conforming status of the removed sign, and the unique characteristics of the lot. Member Rosenthal noted that the curve on Lexington Boulevard makes the entrance hard to spot, especially for elderly or anxious patients. Member Haynes expressed concern over sign pollution but sympathized with the safety need. Member Agarwal questioned why a second monument sign was necessary when a driveway sign might suffice. After debate, the board leaned toward approval given the previous existence of a sign and the safety benefits. - Vote and Conditions: A motion was made to approve the variance (Resolution V26-9A) with the condition that the new monument sign be no larger than the existing monument sign at 12 Lexington Boulevard. The motion was seconded and clarified: the sign shall not exceed the area of the monument sign at 12 Lexington Boulevard. The board approved 5-0: Messrs. Rosenthal, Agarwal, El Masarani, Haynes, and Chair Dariano in favor. Key Outcomes - Vote: 5-0 in favor of granting variance for a second monument sign at 6 Lexington Boulevard, with the condition that the sign’s size does not exceed that of the sign at 12 Lexington Boulevard. - Next Meeting: The next regular Board of Zoning Appeals meeting is scheduled for September 9, 2026. No applications were pending for that date.

The Sister City Advisory Board of Delaware, Ohio, met on August 11, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The board approved prior meeting minutes, advanced a student video exchange with Sakata (Japan), discussed upcoming visits from both Baumholder (Germany) and Sakata, and explored a potential Girl Scout Gold Award project. Several votes were taken, including approval of a $5,500 budget request for the 2027 Sakata delegation. Consent Calendar - Approval of June 11, 2026 Meeting Minutes: The minutes were approved with 4 in favor and 1 abstention (Mr. Reed). - Excuse Mayor from Meeting: A motion to excuse Mayor Riggle from the meeting passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received, and no emails or petitions were submitted. Discussion Items - Student Video Exchange Project: Board members reviewed a proposal to send an introductory video of Delaware (created by student Micah Georgie and former exchange student Fuka) to Sakata. The video exchange aims to build on Sakata's existing promotional videos and establish a broader relationship with high school students. Tom Herring of Hayes High School will facilitate the filmmaking collaboration. The board discussed language barriers (Sakata students are learning English) and agreed to proceed with sending the video along with an invitation for further exchange. Rand Gabert was appointed as the board's coordinator for this project. - Sister City Updates – Baumholder, Germany: The board considered scheduling a video call with Baumholder representatives to re-energize the relationship. Rand Gabert noted a planned private trip to Baumholder in late September 2026 and offered to informally discuss the exchange. The board voted to contact Baumholder to arrange a video call before the end of 2026. Discussion also touched on challenges engaging veterans stationed in Baumholder due to privacy concerns. - Sister City Updates – Sakata, Japan: The board finalized plans for a delegation visit from Sakata scheduled for October 28 – November 3, 2027. The delegation will include 15 people (5 middle school students, 5 high school students, their mayor, and a city council member). The board discussed logistics: host families, school liaison (Jenny Nicely potentially continuing), activities (water treatment plant, state house tour, industry visits), and translation services. A budget of $5,500 was requested to cover group meals (dinners for adults), interpreter costs, and local transportation. Ohio Wesleyan University offered to sponsor one meal. - Girl Scout Gold Award Project – Postcard Exchange: Sophia McCulla, a ninth-grade homeschooled Girl Scout, presented an early-stage proposal to organize a community-to-community postcard exchange between Delaware and Sakata. The project would involve collecting postcards from local residents (artwork, day-in-the-life, recipes) and mailing them to Sakata, with a reciprocal exchange. The board expressed strong enthusiasm for the idea and offered to act as a point of contact with Sakata once the Girl Scout organization approves the project. No formal vote was taken; the board agreed to place it on a future agenda if pursued. Key Outcomes - Approved video exchange with Sakata: Unanimous vote (5-0) to send the introductory video and invitation drafted by Rand Gabert, and to appoint Rand Gabert as coordinator. - Approved contacting Baumholder for video call: Unanimous vote (5-0) to set up a virtual meeting by end of 2026. - Approved $5,500 budget request for Sakata 2027 visit: Unanimous vote (5-0) to request this amount in the city's budget for the delegation's expenses. - Supported further exploration of Girl Scout project: No formal motion, but the board agreed to provide a letter of support and serve as a liaison pending project approval by Girl Scouts. - Next steps: Sarah (city clerk contact) will reach out to Sakata with the video invitation and to Baumholder to schedule a video call. The board will continue refining the Sakata visit itinerary and seek additional community partners. The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 2026.

The City of Delaware Civil Service Commission met on August 10, 2026, at 3:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting lasted seven minutes, concluding at 3:37 PM. Commissioners unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting and the August 2026 Police Certified List, which included updates on candidate hiring status. Consent Calendar - Approval of Motion Summary (July 1, 2026): The commission unanimously approved the motion summary from the July 1, 2026 meeting as recorded and transcribed. No corrections or additions were made. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments, letters, or petitions were submitted. The chair confirmed the absence of public input. Discussion Items - August 2026 Police Certified List: Chief Hernandez and Assistant Chief Justalin presented an update on the certified list. Key points included: - Eight new names are being added to the list. - Two candidates are being removed: one accepted a job elsewhere, and one was disqualified for failure to complete phases of the hiring process (per a memo from Chief Moore). - Noah Halchins, initially thought to be removed, remains in background investigation and is not yet removed from the list. - Current hiring progress: fitness tests continue, interviews scheduled for Thursday, three background investigations are nearly complete, and three officers are currently in the sheriff's academy (graduating November) with hopes to send three more for the December 9th academy start. Staff Comments - The legal department’s new law clerk, Brandon Planey, was introduced as starting part-time at City Hall and attending his first public meeting. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve August 2026 Police Certified List: Unanimously approved by a roll call vote (Commissioners Mansell, Hurley, and Santos all voting yes). The motion was made by Commissioner Hurley and seconded. - The commission noted the removal of two candidates (one accepted other employment, one disqualified) and the ongoing status of Noah Halchins. - The meeting adjourned at 3:37 PM.

On August 5, 2026, the City of Delaware Planning Commission met at City Hall Council Chambers at 6:30 PM. The meeting covered two zoning amendments, two development plans, one conditional use request, and two final subdivision plats. Commissioners Cross and Stroud arrived at 6:33 PM and 6:45 PM respectively. All votes were unanimous except for a postponement of the conditional use item (6-1). The meeting adjourned at 9:30 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Motion Summary: The motion summary from the July 1, 2026 Planning Commission meeting was approved unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - PUD 26-5 (19 Gruber LLC): Tish Jenkins (20 Gruber Street) expressed support for Y2K, stating they have been great neighbors. Cheryl Luce (40 Gruber Street) voiced concerns about noise, traffic, and parking if gyms or other businesses were added, noting Gruber Street is a narrow street without curbs or public parking. Jeff Macintosh (400 West William Street) expressed concern that future uses (e.g., car wash, dispensary) could harm the neighborhood, though he acknowledged Y2K has been a good neighbor. - PUD 26-6 (Green Oaks of Delaware LLC): No public comments. - PUD 25-15 DVP 3 (Take 5 Oil Change): No public comments. - PUD 26-3 DVP 1 (Snappy's Automotive): No public comments. - PC 26-8 (Boutique Hotel at 163 N Franklin Street): John Powers (141 N Franklin) spoke in support, citing the building's history and the applicant's track record. Bob Gerspacher (123 N Franklin) opposed, arguing an absentee landlord operating a commercial business would harm the residential neighborhood. Eddie Ambrose (17 Griswold) supported with conditions, noting the building needs preservation. Rex Walker (130 N Franklin) expressed concerns about nine units being too many and questioned whether the operation would have on-site staff. Eileen Gerspacher (123 N Franklin) asked the commission to deny the request, citing increased traffic, noise, and potential decrease in property values. Eugene Agin III (17 Griswold) opposed due to increased traffic and noise. JB Ritchie (16 Griswold) opposed, citing proximity of parking, security concerns, and lack of on-site management. Gretchen White (181 N Franklin) expressed concern about noise from outdoor entertainment. Sue Gilsing (18 Griswold) opposed, citing safety and loss of neighborhood character. Discussion Items - PUD 26-5 (Zoning Amendment, I-1 to MX-PUD): Staff presented the request to rezone 5.68 acres at West William and Gruber Streets, dividing into sub-areas A (neighborhood retail/office) and B (remain light industrial). The applicant requested contractor sales and recreational facilities be made permitted uses rather than conditional. Staff recommended keeping them conditional to allow commission oversight. Commissioner Prahl opposed changing conditional uses. The commission agreed with staff, and the motion to approve with staff recommendations passed 7-0. The case will proceed to City Council with first reading on August 24, public hearing September 14, and final reading September 28. - PUD 26-6 (Zoning Amendment, C-CC PUD to C-PUD): Staff presented the request to rezone 5.38 acres for a 120-bed senior residential care facility. The applicant noted the location is complementary to nearby senior villas and a community center. No public comments. Commission expressed support, noting the need for senior housing. Approved 7-0. - PUD 25-15 DVP 3 (Development Plan, Take 5 Oil Change): Staff presented a development plan for a quick oil change on 0.81 acres in Trailhead Crossing. Traffic flow was clarified: access via shared drive with no direct access to Sunbury Road. No public comments. Approved 7-0. - PUD 26-3 DVP 1 (Development Plan, Snappy's Automotive): Staff presented a development plan for a 12,250 sq ft automotive repair facility on 2.27 acres. The applicant requested three modifications: (1) remove "or full access" from condition 2D (emergency access easement to adjacent lot), (2) allow additional parking (beyond the current 60 spaces) up to the originally proposed 75 spaces to accommodate growth, (3) reduce the cul-de-sac size (remove requirement for median island) as it is a private road, and (4) replace the 11-foot multi-use path condition (6C) with a more flexible pedestrian connectivity requirement. Commission discussed parking maximums and pedestrian connectivity. A motion to amend condition 6C to read "applicant shall work with staff to determine an appropriate plan for pedestrian connectivity on Liberty Road" passed 7-0. The subsequent motion to approve with amended conditions passed 7-0. - PC 26-8 (Conditional Use, Boutique Hotel): Staff presented a request for a 9-room boutique hotel at 163 N Franklin Street, a historic building previously a fraternity house. The applicant's representative noted the building needs preservation. Public comments were strongly divided. Commission discussed concerns about on-site staffing, outdoor space, noise, and future transfers. Staff recommended tabling to obtain more information from the applicant. Commissioner Nana moved to postpone the case to the September 2, 2026 meeting (time certain). The motion passed 6-1, with Commissioner Prahl dissenting. - S 26-11 (Final Plat, Belle Commons): The plat for 10.927 acres related to Snappy's Automotive. Discussion centered on condition 2D (emergency access easement). The applicant wanted only emergency access, not full access. The initial approval motion passed, but Commissioner Nana noted the amendment was needed. A motion to reconsider passed 7-0, then an amendment to strike "or full access" from condition 2D passed 7-0. The amended plat was approved 7-0. - S 26-12 (Final Plat, Vernon Crossing): Staff presented a final subdivision plat for 14.967 acres, creating 118 lots (113 units) and dedicating right-of-way for Vernon Avenue and extension of Ferguson Avenue. No public comments. Approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - PUD 26-5: Approved 7-0. Recommendation to City Council; first reading August 24, public hearing September 14, final reading September 28. - PUD 26-6: Approved 7-0. Recommendation to City Council. - PUD 25-15 DVP 3: Approved 7-0. - PUD 26-3 DVP 1: Approved 7-0 after amending condition 6C to require working with staff on pedestrian connectivity. Additional parking to be finalized administratively. - PC 26-8: Postponed 6-1 to September 2, 2026 meeting for more information from the applicant. - S 26-11: Approved 7-0 with condition 2D amended to remove "or full access". - S 26-12: Approved 7-0. - Next Regular Meeting: September 2, 2026. - City Engineer's Report: Noted in packet; included thoroughfare plan update and capital projects timelines. Commission encouraged continued pursuit of federal funding.

The Public Works and Public Utilities Committee met on August 4, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The committee elected new leadership, discussed several public works projects, and provided guidance on public utilities reporting. Multiple motions were passed to advance infrastructure improvements. Consent Calendar - Approval of Motion Summary from September 23, 2025: A motion to approve was made and seconded. Councilor Griffith and Dr. Bogan abstained, Vice Mayor Frazier voted yes. Due to the abstentions, the item was not approved and will be revisited at a future meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the committee. Election of Chair and Vice-Chair - The committee elected Councilor Caitlin Frazier as Chair and Dr. Kyle Bogan as Vice-Chair. The motion passed unanimously. Discussion Items Public Works Department Updates 1. Recycling & Yard Waste Public Information Campaign Staff presented new messaging on refuse vehicles about proper disposal of lithium-ion batteries, which have caused multiple onboard fires. The campaign also addresses yard waste contamination, as two of three local providers reject the city’s yard waste due to contaminants. Staff seeks resident awareness to avoid a potential switch to rear-load collection in cans. 2. Sidewalk Maintenance Update Over two years, the city repaired nearly 25,000 square feet of sidewalk at a cost of $326,000. Most repairs are city-responsible due to street tree root damage. The program is complaint-driven. Staff plans to increase funding from $150,000 to $225,000 in 2027 for a spring, summer, and fall program. 3. Franklin Street Parking Lot Dumpster Enclosures Staff proposed constructing an attractive enclosure for four dumpsters and rearranging parking to improve aesthetics and safety. The project is planned for the 2027 budget. A motion to move forward passed unanimously (Griffith: yes, Bogan: yes, Frazier: yes). 4. Potter Street Widening To restore parallel parking lost due to CSX bridge work, staff proposed adding six feet of pavement along 190 feet of fence line, using $5,000 in materials. A motion to proceed passed unanimously. 5. Potter Alley Improvement (east side of Potter Street) Staff recommended rebuilding 265 feet of alley to offset parking loss from the Central Avenue project. A motion to proceed passed unanimously. 6. Alley Improvement in Core Business District (behind Sherwin Williams) Staff proposed rebuilding a deteriorated public alley that serves downtown businesses and refuse trucks. The project requires permission from adjacent property owners but can be completed this year. A motion to proceed passed unanimously. 7. DriveDelaware Facebook Page Relaunch The city rebranded its Facebook page from AccessDelaware to DriveDelaware, which will serve as a one-way information platform for road closures and projects. Public Utilities Reporting Preferences - Public Utilities staff requested guidance on what information to bring to the committee. Members expressed interest in water usage metrics and capacity discussions. Staff will present summer usage data at the next meeting. Staff Comments - City Manager Paul Break provided reassurance about cybersecurity protections on the water system, noting it is not connected directly to the internet and that multi-factor authentication is in place for alarm systems. - Chair Frazier commented that the new water rate structure is working as designed: most residential users see lower bills, while heavy irrigation users pay higher rates, and revenue is up. Key Outcomes - Election of new Chair (Frazier) and Vice-Chair (Bogan) – unanimous. - Motions to proceed with the Franklin Street dumpster project, Potter Street widening, Potter alley improvement, and core business district alley improvement all passed unanimously. - The consent calendar item was not approved due to abstentions; will be revisited. - Staff directed to provide summer water usage data at the next committee meeting. - Meeting adjourned at 6:41 PM.

The Shade Tree Commission of Delaware, Ohio, met on July 29, 2026, in the Byxbe Room at Mingo Park. The commission reviewed several landscape and tree canopy management plans, received the July 2026 Arborist Report, and approved consent items. No public comments were presented. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the motion summary from the May 26, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public attended or submitted comments. Staff Comments and Update - July 2026 Arborist Report: The city arborist reported seasonal activities. Statistics for the year to date: - Pruning: 2,326 trees total (1,816 in-house, 510 contracted). - Removals: 60 trees (46 in-house, 14 contracted). - Stump removal: 22 stumps (all in-house). - Service requests: 203 (all handled in-house). - A decision was made to establish a 35-foot working height limit for safety; high work (e.g., bucket truck operations, rigging) will be contracted out in the future. Discussion Items - Howald Industrial Landscape Plan and Tree Canopy Management Plan: The plan preserves existing trees and adds hedge maple, silver linden, Shumard oak, and eastern redbud to achieve 31% canopy coverage. The commission approved the plan. - Snappy Automotive – Belle Commons Tree Canopy Management Plan: The plan preserves 1.4 acres of existing trees (maple, green ash, Eastern cottonwood, box elder) achieving 36% coverage. Commissioners noted the lack of species selection for new plantings and expressed concern over the quality of species preserved. The plan was approved with encouragement to improve species diversity. - 1137 Trailhead Crossing West (Lots B and C) Landscape Plan: Uses thornless honeylocust and London plane trees in parking lot islands, along with shrubs (witch hazel, gray owl juniper, fothergilla). Approved. - 1137 Trailhead Crossing West Overall Tree Canopy Management Plan: Calculates 20% canopy coverage for the non-industrial site. Approved. - Chick-fil-A Landscape Plan and Tree Canopy Management Plan: Uses London plane and oak trees. Commissioners noted that the proposed creeping mallow (or creeping lily) is listed as invasive in Virginia and Indiana and recommended substituting with native species. The plan was approved with that suggestion. Key Outcomes - All five landscape and tree canopy management plans were approved with minor comments and recommendations. - The commission adjourned following a motion.