Public Meetings - Hudson, Ohio

The Hudson City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Town Hall, beginning with a 6:30 p.m. executive session to interview applicants for the Environmental Awareness Committee. The regular meeting was gaveled to order at 7:30 p.m., with all seven council members present, and adjourned at 8:13 p.m. Key actions included approving prior meeting minutes, passing legislation on budget overage commitments, and appointing committee members. Executive Session - Mayor Anzevino called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. with a motion by Council Member Banweg to enter executive session to interview applicants for the Environmental Awareness Committee. The meeting recessed at 6:31 p.m. and resumed at 7:30 p.m. Roll Call & Pledge of Allegiance - The Pledge of Allegiance was recited following the executive session. - Clerk Wheeler confirmed a quorum with all seven members present. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (Item 25-0001): Motion to approve the December 17, 2024, Council Meeting & Workshop Minutes passed 7-0. - Resolution 25-2 (Consent Agenda Item A): A resolution retroactively authorizing the City Manager to enter into a grant agreement for the Hudson Inclusive Playground, declaring an emergency, was passed as part of the consent agenda. The rules were suspended to allow passage. - Honorary Resolution 25-1: A resolution thanking Annette Johnson for over 20 years of service to the City of Hudson passed unanimously 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments during the public comment period, which was closed after being opened. Appointments - Council President Foster nominated four individuals to full terms on the Environmental Awareness Committee. The nominees included Jack McCabe and Ken Nadsady, with additional nominees whose names were acknowledged during roll call. The appointments passed by roll call vote. - Council President Foster announced other vacancies, including one full-term vacancy on the Board of Zoning and Building Appeals, one full-term vacancy on the Planning Commission, one full-term vacancy on the Architectural & Historic Board of Review, and one partial and two full-term vacancies on the Military and Veterans' Commission. Discussion Items - Legislation 24-152 (General Fund Budget Overage Commitment): Council discussed an ordinance adopting the city's general fund budget overage commitment for Hudson infrastructure. Some members expressed support, arguing it requires an informed discussion about large projects. One council member voiced opposition, stating the measure could interfere with future councils' ability to appropriate overages and that previous councils had allowed large amounts (described as $120 million in projects on a $25 million discretionary budget) to be diverted to "pet projects." Supporters responded that the ordinance is an administrative directive that does not bind future councils beyond requiring a discussion. The main motion passed by roll call vote. - Legislation 24-153 (City Manager Employment Contract & Employee Handbook): Council discussed the city manager's employment legislation. A motion was made to substitute the updated Council Summary dated January 7, 2025, and Exhibit A (Employee Handbook updated for January 7, 2025) into the legislation. The substitute motion passed 6-1. Following discussion, the main motion to pass legislation 24-153 as substituted passed by roll call vote. City Manager's Report - City Manager Sheridan announced the Merry Mulch program will run from January 6 through January 31, 2025. - City offices will be closed on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, January 20, 2025. - Council Member Foster announced a Town Hall / Open Forum scheduled for Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. Key Outcomes - Approval of the December 17, 2024, minutes (7-0). - Adoption of Resolution 25-2 consenting to the Inclusive Playground grant agreement. - Adoption of Resolution 25-1 honoring Annette Johnson (7-0). - Appointment of four members to the Environmental Awareness Committee. - Passage of Ordinance 24-152 committing general fund budget overages to infrastructure. - Passage of Ordinance 24-153 with a substituted Council Summary and Employee Handbook (6-1).

The Hudson City Council held a regular meeting at 7:30 p.m. on December 17, 2024, preceded by an executive session at 6:45 p.m. to interview applicants for boards and commissions. All seven council members were present for the regular meeting and subsequent workshop. The meeting addressed multiple land development code amendments, a growth management allocation resolution, a job creation grant agreement, and several consent agenda items. Council also received updates on a proposed alley paving request and the ongoing August flood recovery efforts. The regular meeting adjourned at 9:06 p.m., followed by a workshop that concluded at 9:33 p.m. Public Hearings - Ordinance 24-104 – Amending setbacks for D6 and D8 districts adjacent to residential properties. Sarah Norman, Vice Chair of the Planning Commission, addressed the council, stating the commission was "pretty enthused" about the changes and anticipated bringing further recommendations in 2025, including a potential moratorium for a major code rewrite. No other public comments were offered. The public hearing closed at 7:35 p.m. - Ordinance 24-105 – Amending non-conforming residential use provisions. No public comments were offered; the hearing closed at 7:36 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - No general public comments were made during the designated public comment period. Council Comments - Council members expressed gratitude for volunteers and participants in the Christkindlmarkt, noted two severe accidents at Terex Road and SR 91 (to be reconstructed in one to two years), thanked residents for feedback on the Fire/EMS study, and shared holiday wishes. Mayor Anzevino thanked participants in the clothing drive, especially Little Tikes Company which collected 400 pairs of socks. Report of Manager - North Main Street Alley: City Manager Sheridan reported that three business owners requested the City pave the alley behind North Main Street (between Clinton and Owen Brown) at an estimated cost of $30,000. Sheridan noted other owners had previously paved their portions at their own expense. Council did not take action but agreed to consider a future workshop discussion. - August Flood Update: Sheridan provided a detailed update: a contractor cleaned major creeks (from the high school to Stow Road, through Herrick Park); the county installed 125 sanitary sewer manhole inserts to prevent inflow; and consultants are studying four areas (College Street, Edgeview/Darrow Park, Jesse Drive/Herrick Park Circle, and Middleton/Rennet) with results expected January–April 2025. An RFP for a Tinkers Creek watershed study will be issued in January. Total unbudgeted stormwater spending to date: $168,000. Additional ditch and culvert projects are planned. No update was available from the county on the Brunswick pump station. - Sheridan noted the draft Fire/EMS study would be distributed to council on Friday, with the final report and workshop discussion scheduled for January 28, 2025. Consent Calendar - Motion 24-0126 – Acknowledged timely receipt of the November 2024 monthly financial report. - Motion 24-0127 – Directed the Clerk to send notice to the Ohio Division of Liquor Control indicating no request for a hearing regarding the transfer of a liquor permit to Ozer Petroleum LLC at 27 S. Main St. - Ordinance 24-154 – Amended the City’s pay range structure and pay range assignment schedule, adjusting pay bands by a factor of 1.03 for non‑bargaining unit employees in 2025. Declared an emergency. - Resolution 24-155 – Authorized Hudson Fire to purchase a Fotokite tethered, autonomous, pilotless drone from Atlantic Emergency Solutions for continuous use with visual and thermal imaging. Declared an emergency. - Resolution 24-156 – Authorized the City Manager to contract with Montrose Ford for the purchase of one Ford Explorer for the Fire Department under the State Bid List. Declared an emergency. - Resolution 24-157 – Authorized the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Benbery LLC to purchase a 12.1‑acre parcel on Stow Road (Summit County Parcel 3009781) for $350,000, with a 10% deposit and a 6-month due diligence option. Declared an emergency. The consent agenda was approved unanimously (7‑0). Discussion Items - Ordinance 24-104 – After debate, Councilmember Sutton expressed concern that the fourth whereas clause flipped the intent by burdening industrial uses. The ordinance passed 4‑3 (Aye: Banweg, Bird, Foster, Heater; Nay: Goetz, Kowalski, Sutton). - Ordinance 24-105 – Councilmember Sutton found the amended language repetitive in Section 1(e)(2). Council agreed to postpone the vote to a date certain (January 21, 2025) to clarify the language. A motion to postpone passed 7‑0. - Resolution 24-131 – Accepted the City Manager’s recommendation not to implement the Growth Management Residential Development Allocation System in 2025 due to no appreciable population change. Passed 7‑0. - Ordinance 24-151 (Second reading) – Amends storm collection and stormwater engineering standards to reflect higher conveyance and flood mitigation standards. Councilmember Goetz asked if the standards would improve stormwater handling; City Manager Sheridan confirmed stormwater is managed by the city (sanitary by the county). No vote taken; scheduled for third reading on January 7, 2025. - Ordinance 24-152 (Second reading) – Adopts the General Fund budget overage commitment for Hudson infrastructure. No vote taken; scheduled for third reading on January 7, 2025. - Ordinance 24-153 (Second reading) – Amends the Employee Handbook and Personnel Rules as approved by the Personnel Advisory and Appeals Board. Social Media Policy removed from the handbook; to be issued as internal policy. Council discussed Media Relations Policy: Councilmembers Kowalski, Sutton, and others argued elected officials should be exempt from media restrictions, especially regarding crisis communications. City Manager Sheridan requested any revisions in redline form. No vote taken; scheduled for third reading on January 7, 2025. - Resolution 24-158 – Authorizes a job creation grant agreement with Charter Communications (Spectrum) for a 50% income tax credit over 10 years. Charter plans to invest $6.3 million and maintain a minimum payroll of $14 million at 280 Executive Parkway West. Council suspended the rules and passed the resolution unanimously (7‑0) on first reading. Key Outcomes - Passed (4‑3): Ordinance 24-104 (setback amendments for D6/D8 adjacent to residential). - Postponed (7‑0): Ordinance 24-105 to January 21, 2025, for language clarification. - Passed (7‑0): Resolution 24-131 (no growth management allocation system in 2025). - Passed (7‑0): Resolution 24-158 (Charter Communications job creation grant agreement). - Consent Agenda approved (7‑0): All six items including financial report, liquor permit, pay ranges, drone purchase, Ford Explorer purchase, and land purchase option. - Executive Session (7‑0): Entered at 8:20 p.m. to discuss employment of a public employee; meeting recessed and resumed at 9:06 p.m. - Workshop: Proposed consent agenda for January 7, 2025, includes a resolution to accept a $680,000 state grant for the Hudson Inclusive Playground (no city match required) and a resolution regarding City Manager Thomas Sheridan’s employment contract. Proposed legislation for third reading includes Ordinances 24-151, 24-152, and 24-153; Resolution 24-158 was already passed. An honorary resolution for Annette Johnson’s retirement will be added. - Next Meeting: Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 6:45 p.m.

The Hudson City Council Workshop was held on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, from 7:30 PM to 7:48 PM at Town Hall, 27 East Main Street. Mayor Jeffrey L. Anzevino called the meeting to order and turned it over to President of Council Pro Tempore Skylar Sutton due to President Christopher W. Foster being unwell. Four members were present (Foster, Heater, Kowalski, Sutton) and three were absent (Banweg, Bird, Goetz). The workshop primarily reviewed items slated for the December 17, 2024 Council meeting and included council comments and updates. Correspondence and Council Comments - Council Member Kowalski reported a resident's follow-up concern about the vacant hotel in the Village of Boston Heights (safety, broken windows, graffiti). City Manager Sheridan agreed to follow up with the Boston Heights mayor. - Kowalski also reminded of the Western Reserve Community Band holiday concert on December 15 at 4:00 PM at Hudson Middle School. - Council Member Foster updated that the Planning Commission approved a townhouse development on South State Route 91 (3-2 vote) and completed land development modifications. - Mayor Anzevino reminded of upcoming events: Winter Wonderland Tour of Trees (final weekend), Cold Weather Clothing Drive (ends December 14 with drive-through drop-off at City Hall 10 AM-2 PM), Christkindlmarkt (December 13-15), Boy Scout Troop 333 tree sales, and the Senior Holiday Luncheon (December 11). - Council Member Heater provided an update from the Fire/EMS subcommittee meeting (December 9): the consulting firm will provide a report, comments due by January 10, 2025, and presentation to Council by end of January. - Council Member Sutton welcomed new Assistant City Manager Brian Griffith, thanked staff and organizations for the Winter Fireworks display, and urged shopping locally. Proposed Consent Agenda (December 17, 2024 Meeting) All items below were forwarded without objection for further consideration at the December 17 Council meeting: - TMP-7659 / 24-0126: Motion to acknowledge timely receipt of November 2024 Monthly Financial Report. - TMP-7650 / 24-0127: Motion directing Clerk to send notice to Ohio Division of Liquor Control indicating no request for a hearing regarding transfer of a liquor permit to Ozer Petroleum LLC, 27 S. Main St. Response deadline December 23, 2024. - TMP-7627 / 24-154: Ordinance amending City's Pay Range Structure and Pay Range Assignment Schedule for non-bargaining unit employees; pay bands adjusted by factor of 1.03 over 2024 figures; emergency declared. - TMP-7653 / 24-155: Resolution authorizing Hudson Fire to purchase a Fotokite tethered, autonomous, pilotless drone from Atlantic Emergency Solutions; emergency declared. - TMP-7651 / 24-156: Resolution authorizing City Manager to contract with Montrose Ford for purchase of one Ford Explorer for Fire Department (2025 budgeted vehicle, under State Bid List); emergency declared. - TMP-7669 / 24-157: Resolution authorizing City Manager to contract with Benbery LLC for purchase of a 12.1-acre parcel on Stow Road (Summit County Parcel 3009781) for $350,000, with 10% deposit and 6-month option period; emergency declared. Proposed Legislation (December 17, 2024 Meeting) - 24-104: Ordinance amending Land Development Code (LDC) Chapters 1205.09 and 1205.11 to require increased setbacks for D6 and D8 uses adjacent to residentially used properties. Forwarded for third reading and public hearing on December 17. - 24-105: Ordinance amending LDC Chapter 1206.05 to allow greater ability for existing non-conforming residential properties to rebuild or expand. Planning Commission recommended changes to regulation of additions/expansions; Community Development Director Hannan stated an amended ordinance would be prepared for December 17. Forwarded for third reading and public hearing. - 24-131: Resolution accepting City Manager's recommendation not to implement the Growth Management Residential Development Allocation System during calendar year 2025. Council Member Foster noted Planning Commission agreed but expressed interest in revising the code to include a forward-looking element; Planning Commission will present recommendations to Council in January. Forwarded as actionable after three readings. - 24-151: Ordinance amending Engineering Standards for Storm Collection (Section 4) and Storm Water Management (Section 5), last updated in 2018, to reflect higher conveyance and flood mitigation standards. Forwarded for second reading. - 24-152: Ordinance adopting General Fund Budget Overage Commitment for Hudson Infrastructure, directing Finance to prepare draft appropriations from excess carryover. Forwarded for second reading. - 24-153: Ordinance amending Employee Handbook and Personnel Rules, as approved by PAAB on September 30, 2024. Council and City Manager agreed to pull the Social Media Policy from the handbook for separate review; labor attorney will attend December 17 meeting to discuss that policy. The remainder of the handbook could be approved separately. Forwarded for second reading. - TMP-7668 / 24-158: Resolution authorizing City Manager to enter into a Job Creation Grant Agreement with Charter Communications (DBA Spectrum) – a 50% income tax credit for 10 years, company to relocate regional operations to 280 Executive Parkway West, invest $6.3 million, and maintain minimum payroll of $14 million within three years. Staff requested passage on first reading (suspension of rules) due to company timeline. Council did not object; forwarded for first reading and full action on December 17. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items and proposed legislation were forwarded to the December 17, 2024 Council meeting. - For Ordinance 24-105, an amended version will be substituted on December 17. - For Ordinance 24-153, the Social Media Policy will be pulled and reviewed separately; the remainder of the handbook may be approved once the attorney explains the policy. - Resolution 24-158 (Charter Communications) is expected to be approved on first reading via suspension of rules on December 17. - Council President Foster requested an Executive Session on December 17 to discuss information related to a public employee. - Public hearings for Ordinances 24-104 and 24-105 are scheduled for December 17.

The Hudson Planning Commission met on December 9, 2024, at 7:30 PM at Town Hall. Acting Chair Sarah Norman presided over the meeting with five members present (Norman, Stolle, Vaughan, Innamorato, Smith) and two absent (Romano and Nystrom). The commission addressed a text amendment to the Land Development Code, a major site plan for a 29‑unit townhome development, the Growth Management Annual Report, a council check‑in, and the 2025 meeting schedule. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (November 18, 2024): The minutes were approved as amended (one typographical correction) by a vote of 5–0. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public discussion period or during the public hearing for the major site plan. Discussion Items - Text Amendment (PC 2024-1085): Staff presented an amendment to LDC Section 1206.05 to provide greater flexibility for non‑conforming residential properties to rebuild or expand. The amendment was revised to align with a related section (1206.05(e)(1)) as requested at the November 18 meeting. Commissioners expressed satisfaction with the revisions. The commission voted 5–0 to recommend the amendment to City Council. - Major Site Plan – Preserve of Hudson (PC 2024-1186): The applicant (Triban Investment/Knez Homes) proposed 29 townhome condominium units (six buildings, 1,900 sq. ft. each) on a 12.5‑acre parcel zoned District 3 (outer village residential) and District 7 (office overlay). Staff reviewed revisions made since November 18, including updated landscaping, lighting, stormwater outlet direction, and access easements. The applicant stated the estimated sale price would be in the upper $400,000s to $500,000s. Commissioners discussed price point, design compatibility, the lack of first‑floor master suites, traffic study results (maximum 15 peak‑hour trips), and the future development of the commercially zoned front portion. No public testimony was offered. After deliberation, the commission approved the site plan 3–2, subject to nine conditions (e.g., protective fencing, revised landscaping and lighting plans, public open space fees, access easements, and addressing city engineer comments). Voting Aye: Stolle, Vaughan, Smith. Voting Nay: Norman, Innamorato. - Growth Management Annual Report: Staff presented the 2025 report noting minimal housing starts (one new single‑family unit in 2024) and the City Manager’s recommendation not to reactivate the allocation system. Commissioners supported the recommendation unanimously (5–0) and discussed potential revisions to the Growth Management chapter of the LDC, including conflicts in the code and the exclusion of senior housing. - Council Check‑In 2025: Staff outlined the annual check‑in with City Council scheduled for January 28, 2025. Commissioners discussed goals, including the LDC rewrite and recommending updates to the Comprehensive Plan. - 2025 Planning Commission Schedule: The draft schedule was approved 5–0. Key Outcomes - Text Amendment Recommendation: Approved 5–0 to forward to City Council. - Major Site Plan Approval: Approved 3–2 with nine conditions. The applicant must meet all conditions before a zoning certificate is issued; no clearing or construction may begin prior to the pre‑construction meeting. - Growth Management Recommendation: Supported 5–0 the City Manager’s recommendation not to reactivate the Growth Management System for 2025. - 2025 Meeting Schedule: Approved 5–0. - Next Steps: The January 2025 meeting will occur even without applications (to elect officers and finalize goals). Planning Commission will receive monthly updates on zoning certificates to monitor growth.

The Hudson, Ohio City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at Town Hall, 27 East Main Street. The 6:45 p.m. executive session to interview applicants for the Environmental Awareness Committee preceded the public session, which convened at 7:30 p.m. and adjourned at 8:30 p.m. after a second executive session on economic development assistance. All seven council members were present. Mayor Jeffrey L. Anzevino presided; City Manager Thomas J. Sheridan and City Solicitor Marshal Pitchford attended. Proclamation Mayor Anzevino read a proclamation naming Sunday, December 8, 2024, as “Red Kettle Day” in Hudson in recognition of the Salvation Army. A Salvation Army representative accepted the proclamation. Public Comments No members of the public addressed Council. Appointments No appointments were made at the regular meeting. Council President Foster noted four Environmental Awareness Committee vacancies with terms from January 1, 2025, to January 1, 2029; additional applicant interviews were scheduled for the next meeting. Council Comments and City Manager’s Report - Chris Banweg thanked local charities and encouraged residents to volunteer during the holiday season. - Michael Bird described a Hudson High School service-learning presentation on a potential recreation center and a tour of the water treatment plant, praising Kevin Powell’s team and water safety. - Christopher Foster asked the public to avoid distracted driving because the city has experienced many severe accidents recently. - Mayor Anzevino announced upcoming events: winter fireworks on December 7 at 7:30 p.m., the Winter Wonderland Tour of Trees at Case-Barlow Farm on December 6-7 and 13-14, the First and Main Holiday Walk on December 8, and a cold-weather clothing drive through December 13 with a drive-thru drop-off on December 14. - City Manager Sheridan said the winter fireworks are sponsored by the City and Hudson Community Foundation, 89 percent of leaves had been collected (the transcript later also refers to 90 percent), and a snow-plowing tracking app was being prepared for the City website. Consent Calendar - Council suspended the rule requiring three readings and approved the consent agenda by 7-0 votes, except Resolution 24-150, which was pulled by Skylar Sutton. - Motion 24-0120 approved the proposed 2025 City Council meeting schedule. - Motions 24-0121, 24-0122, and 24-0123 directed the Clerk to send notices to the Ohio Division of Liquor Control stating that no hearing was requested for new or transferred liquor permits at Regal Cinemas Inc., 5339 Darrow Road; NC Soccer Club Inc., 5661 Stow Road; and Hudson Gas LLC, 5915 Darrow Road. The required responses were due December 9, December 14, and December 16, 2024. - Motion 24-0124 approved the City Manager’s appointment of Brian Griffith as Assistant City Manager. - Ordinance 24-143 made additional and amended appropriations for fiscal year 2024. - Resolutions 24-144, 24-145, and 24-146 authorized 2025 contracts with TrueRX for prescription drug administration, Mutual Health Services for claims administration, and BRM Specialty for stop-loss insurance. - Resolution 24-147 authorized internet auctions of obsolete or surplus city property. - Resolutions 24-148 and 24-149 authorized 2025 as-needed purchases for Public Utility and Velocity Broadband operations exceeding $25,000 and competitive or cooperative bidding for Public Works contracts. Marijuana Activity Moratorium – Resolution 24-150 - Sutton pulled the proposed three-month moratorium on new marijuana-related applications from the consent agenda; the rule requiring three readings was suspended 7-0. - Sutton opposed the extension, stating that 14 of Hudson’s 18 precincts passed the state issue, two public hearings drew only one resident, and the city already found a zoning location; he called further delay “kicking the can.” - Banweg supported the moratorium, noting the issue passed by only a slight majority in each precinct and more resident feedback was needed. - Foster supported the three-month extension, observing that the Planning Commission was split and little public opposition had been heard, but he added that the city should move forward if no substantial pushback emerged. - Resolution 24-150 passed 5-2: Banweg, Bird, Foster, Goetz, and Heater in favor; Kowalski and Sutton against. City Solicitor Pitchford noted the 5-2 vote did not satisfy the six-vote emergency requirement, so the resolution becomes effective in 30 days rather than immediately. Land Development Code Amendments – Ordinances 24-104 and 24-105 - Both third-reading ordinances were postponed to a date certain of December 17, 2024, for public hearings by unanimous 7-0 votes. They concern D6 and D8 setbacks adjacent to residential properties and non-conforming residential uses, respectively. Growth Management Allocation System – Resolution 24-131 - Council referred the resolution accepting the City Manager’s recommendation not to implement the Growth Management Residential Development Allocation System in calendar year 2025 to the Planning Commission by a 7-0 vote. The system itself is not being removed. - Foster noted ambiguity about the Planning Commission’s role and favored asking for its input on development. Sutton said a Planning Commission member wanted to weigh in. Banweg said referral would use the commission’s expertise proactively rather than reactively. Walk and Bike Hudson Plan – Resolution 24-132 - Council substituted the November 21, 2024, version of the 2026-2030 Walk and Bike Hudson Plan and then adopted the resolution “in concept” as amended. Both votes were 7-0. Pine Trails Reservation Strip – Ordinance 24-133 - The ordinance to release the reservation strip in Pine Trails Subdivision to provide access to the abutting 18.16 acres failed 6-1, with Patricia Goetz the only affirmative vote. - Sutton said he reviewed about 30 years of legislative history and found reservation strips are normally released with an attached site plan, easement, or development agreement, not as a blanket release. - Banweg, Foster, Bird, and Heater echoed concerns about the lack of site plans or an agreement; they supported the owner’s property rights but wanted more detail. Banweg explained that the three-reading process had been needed to develop those questions, and Goetz asked why the concerns had not been raised more strongly earlier. First Readings - Ordinance 24-151, updating storm collection and stormwater management sections of the Engineering Standards, had its first reading. - Ordinance 24-152, directing preparation of draft appropriations using any excess General Fund carryover balance for Hudson infrastructure, had its first reading. - Ordinance 24-153, amending the Employee Handbook and Personnel Rules as approved by the Personnel Advisory and Appeals Board on September 30, 2024, had its first reading. Key Outcomes - Minutes of November 19, 2024, approved 7-0. - Consent agenda approved 7-0; Resolution 24-150 passed 5-2 with a non-immediate effective date. - Ordinances 24-104 and 24-105 postponed to December 17, 2024. - Resolution 24-131 referred to Planning Commission. - Resolution 24-132 adopted in concept as amended. - Ordinance 24-133 defeated 6-1. - Council voted 7-0 at 8:21 p.m. to enter executive session to discuss confidential economic development applicant information, then returned at 8:30 p.m. and adjourned.

The Hudson City Council held a workshop on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at 7:30 PM in Town Hall. Council discussed several major topics including expanding Velocity Broadband fiber to all residents, pedestrian safety improvements (HAWK signals and SR 303 safety upgrades), modifications to the Memorial Tree Program, and a proposed ordinance to commit General Fund budget overage to infrastructure. The meeting also reviewed a large consent agenda for the December 3 Council meeting, including appointment of an Assistant City Manager and various routine resolutions. Correspondence and Council Comments - Councilmember Banweg thanked businesses for attending the Business Appreciation Breakfast and provided an update on the Fire/EMS Needs Study, noting the staffing model still needs review. - Councilmember Goetz read a letter from residents Michael and Patricia Whitaker expressing concerns about proposed changes to West Streetsboro Street (SR 303) – they opposed eliminating a westbound lane, citing potential issues for emergency vehicle access. - Councilmember Kowalski asked if the City could work with Boston Heights to board up windows at the old hotel on Dean Memorial Parkway to prevent vandalism. - Councilmember Heater updated on a Board of Zoning and Building Appeals meeting where two variances were approved (6-foot fence and forward-facing garage). - Councilmember Sutton reported from the Tree Commission: the City Arborist is retiring; a former arborist suggested planting 25 additional native trees for Hudson’s 225th anniversary; spotted lanternfly was found near Turner’s Mill and treated; 331 trees were planted in the year. - Mayor Anzevino announced several events: Home for the Holidays Extravaganza on November 29, Small Business Saturday on November 30, a cold weather clothing drive, and the naming of the new street sweeper as “Hudson Hurricane” by sixth-grade students. - Council President Foster attended a service-learning presentation at the high school and commended the students. Discussion Items 24-0115: Fiber to the Residents Expansion Staff and the Fiber to the Residents Ad Hoc Committee presented a plan to expand Velocity Broadband fiber service to all Hudson residents who currently lack fiber. The four-year phased rollout would balance geographic coverage and revenue, using a financial model that aims to be self-sustaining (small loss in year one, profitable thereafter). Approximately 2,000 homes currently lack fiber. The plan targets a 62% adoption rate based on a community survey. Council members expressed strong support for the plan, noting it does not rely on taxpayer funds. Staff will bring legislation to proceed, including an RFP for consultants and construction. 24-0090: High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk (HAWK) Signal Follow-up City Engineer Brad Kosco presented a study recommending against installing a HAWK signal at Aurora/E. Main or the N. Main mid-block crossing, citing sufficient gaps in traffic, no pedestrian accidents in three years, and potential traffic congestion. Councilmember Banweg argued the HAWK signal is needed for a visually impaired resident to safely cross downtown. After discussion, there was consensus to: - Consider removing the mid-block crossing at N. Main. - Study installing a HAWK signal at the Church Street crossing, possibly coordinated with adaptive traffic signals. - Evaluate the possibility of an audible signal at existing RRFBs. - Return to Council after adaptive signals are installed (expected in 5 months) to reassess traffic on Aurora Street. - City staff will continue exploring safety improvements for the blind resident. 24-0116: W. Streetsboro Road (SR 303) Safety Improvements Mr. Kosco presented the final design for safety improvements funded 80% by ODOT. The original plan included curb-and-grass bump-outs, but after resident feedback, some bump-outs will be painted white stripes instead of curbed to allow emergency vehicle access. Council discussed: - The proposed central median/grass island (22 inches wide) – several members expressed concerns about maintenance, snow plowing, and driver confusion. - Consensus to stripe the new lane configuration first, monitor its effectiveness, and consider permanent curbing later with city funds. - The City Manager will bring a discussion item in January 2025 to review the striped pattern and decide on next steps. - Council also noted the need to improve the curb height at the McDonald’s/Acme entrance (separate project) and to revisit truck turning radii at SR 303/91. 24-0117: Memorial Tree Program Discussion Councilmember Sutton explained the downtown greens are saturated with memorial trees. Options discussed: placing trees in parks, public properties, and rights-of-way; heavier promotion of bench donations; and creating an endowment for general beautification (e.g., annual flowers) rather than specific plantings. Council expressed support for benches and asked the Tree Commission to return with recommendations. TMP-7602: General Fund Budget Overage Commitment for Infrastructure Councilmember Banweg presented an ordinance that would require an annual discussion on using any General Fund budget overage for unfunded infrastructure projects. Council debate centered on whether it would bind future councils. Supporters (Banweg, Sutton, Heater, Bird, Mayor Anzevino) argued it mandates a transparent annual discussion, not a forced spending. Councilmember Kowalski opposed, fearing it could limit flexibility in emergencies. The consensus was to move the ordinance to the December 3 agenda for first reading. Proposed Consent Agenda (for December 3, 2024) All items below were forwarded to the December 3 Council meeting as part of the consent agenda, except where noted. - A. 2025 Council Meeting Schedule – Approved with a change: a combined meeting/workshop on November 18 and 25 to accommodate Veterans Day and Election Day. - B–D. Liquor permit motions for Regal Cinemas, NC Soccer Club (staff will clarify if new permit), and Hudson Gas LLC – forwarded without objection. - E. Appointment of Brian Griffith as Assistant City Manager – forwarded. - F. 2024 Budget amendment – forwarded. - G–I. Health benefit contracts (TrueRX, Mutual Health Services, BRM Specialty) – forwarded; Council noted the switch to self-insurance. - J. Internet auction of surplus property – forwarded; Councilmember Sutton requested better promotion of auctions on the city website. - K. Velocity Broadband purchases over $25,000 – forwarded. - L. Competitive bidding authorization for 2025 – forwarded. - M. Employee Handbook amendments – pulled from consent to legislation due to concerns about the social media policy and take-home vehicle policy. Council requested further review by the city solicitor, especially regarding application to elected officials. Social media policy was seen as overreaching; take-home vehicle tracking language was removed from the handbook. This item will have three readings. - N. Three-month moratorium on marijuana-related applications – forwarded (extension of emergency). Proposed Legislation for December 3, 2024 - 24-104 (Setbacks for D6/D8 adjacent residential) – Third reading; staff requested moving to date certain of December 17 for public hearing. - 24-105 (Non-conforming residential uses) – Third reading; also moved to December 17 due to Planning Commission delay. - 24-131 (Growth Management Allocation not implemented for 2025) – Third reading. - 24-132 (Walk & Bike Hudson Plan 2026-2030 adoption in concept) – Third reading. - 24-133 (Pine Trails reservation strip release) – Third reading. - TMP-7612 (Storm collection and management engineering standards update) – First reading. Councilmember Sutton thanked staff for quick turnaround. - TMP-7602 (General Fund Budget Overage Commitment) – First reading. Key Outcomes / Next Steps - Fiber to Residents: Legislation to authorize RFP and construction will be brought forward; staff to report annually on progress. - HAWK Signal: Staff will coordinate a study for a HAWK signal at Church Street, review feasibility of introducing an all-red pedestrian phase at SR 303/91, and consider removing the mid-block crossing. Return after adaptive signals are installed (expected early 2025). - SR 303 Safety: Striping of new lane configuration will be done first (before permanent curbing); City Manager to report in January 2025 on results and final design options. - Memorial Tree Program: Tree Commission to develop recommendations for alternative locations and bench/endowment programs. - Budget Overage Ordinance: Placed on first reading for December 3. - Employee Handbook: Pulled to legislation; city solicitor will review social media and vehicle policies; attorney to present at next meeting. - Consent Agenda (except Handbook) forwarded to December 3 meeting. - Items for Future Agendas: A proclamation for Red Kettle Day will appear on December 3.

The Hudson City Council met on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, beginning with an executive session at 6:45 PM to discuss the appointment of public officials. The regular meeting commenced at 7:30 PM, with President of Council Christopher Foster presiding in the absence of Mayor Anzevino. All seven council members were present. The meeting included an honorary resolution, a public hearing, appointments to the Charter Review Committee, approval of the consent agenda with two items pulled for separate discussion, and action on multiple legislative items. Consent Calendar - Motion 24-0114: Appointed Councilmembers Foster and Sutton to the Volunteer Fire Fighters’ Dependents Fund Board for 2025. - Resolution 24-135: Authorized advances of local taxes from Summit County for 2025. - Resolution 24-137: Authorized the City Manager to accept an $18,686.11 grant from Hudson Kiwanis for a shade sail at Veterans Way Park splash pad. - Resolution 24-138: Authorized a contract with Kurtz Brothers, Inc. for 2024 leaf disposal, exceeding the $25,000 expenditure threshold. - Resolution 24-139: Authorized advertising for bids and contracts for the 2025 Capital Maintenance Program (line striping, crack sealing, concrete replacement, catch basin repair, asphalt resurfacing). - Resolution 24-140: Authorized advertising for bids for the Hines Hill Road and Valley View Road sidewalk project (new 5-foot sidewalks). - Resolution 24-141: Authorized a contract with Pavement Management Group for 2025 pavement road ratings (every 2 years, 151 centerline miles). - Resolution 24-142: Approved a then-and-now certificate for a $4,501.82 purchase (Focus on Hudson Newsletter labels and letters). These items were approved unanimously (7-0) after suspension of the three-reading rule. Public Comments & Testimony - Rick Nye (resident): During the Report of Manager, Mr. Nye spoke as an interested party regarding the release of a reservation strip in the Pine Trails Subdivision (Ordinance 24-133). He stated he owns the abutting 18.16 acres, has no plans for development beyond working the land for grape vines and apple trees, and shares neighbors’ concerns about preserving the area. He requested the strip be released to allow access to his property. - No public comments were made during the formal Public Comments section. Discussion Items - Honorary Resolution 24-134: Council adopted a resolution thanking Frank Comeriato, Jr. for his over 30 years of service to the City, including roles as Assistant City Manager of Operations and Public Works Director. Several council members and the City Manager expressed personal gratitude. The vote was 7-0. - Public Hearing (Resolution 24-131): A public hearing was held on the resolution accepting the City Manager’s recommendation not to implement the Growth Management Residential Development Allocation System in 2025, due to no appreciable population change. No public comments were received. - Appointments to the Charter Review Committee (2025): Three groups were appointed: - Gregory Hall, Michael Ryan, Jennifer Spitalieri, Robert Kagler, and Jon Hoover (approved 7-0). - Chelsea McCoy and Sarah Norman (approved 6-0, with Councilwoman Kowalski abstaining because she could not interview them). - Scott Trainor and Cheri Pagni-Griffith (approved 4-2 with one abstention: Council members Kowalski and Goetz voted no; Dr. Bird abstained). - Monthly Financial Report (Motion 24-0113): Pulled from consent for discussion. Councilwoman Goetz noted that legal costs increased by approximately $227,000 from $308,146 in the prior year. City Manager Sheridan explained the increase was due to a change in the City Solicitor’s employment structure and increased outside litigation. The motion to acknowledge receipt passed 7-0. - Blue Creek Wind PPA (Resolution 24-136): Pulled from consent for discussion. Assistant City Manager Comeriato explained that the City would purchase 3 MW from the Blue Creek Wind Project in northwest Ohio at a rate of approximately 4 cents/kWh ($40/MWh), replacing a retired landfill gas renewable energy source. This will increase the City’s renewable energy portfolio from 18% to 23.4%, with potential to reach 26% with future solar. The resolution passed unanimously (7-0). - Other Council Comments: Councilman Sutton reported that the Fiber to the Home Subcommittee had its final meeting and will present to Council next week. Councilwoman Goetz praised the College Street culvert team for their work. Councilman Banweg noted the Economic Growth Board will present goals in December and reminded attendees of the November 21 business appreciation breakfast. - Second Readings (no action taken at this meeting): - Ordinance 24-104 (Land Development Code amendments for D6/D8 setbacks adjacent to residential properties). - Ordinance 24-105 (amendment to non-conforming residential use provisions). - Resolution 24-131 (Growth Management Allocation System – second reading; public hearing already held). - Resolution 24-132 (Walk and Bike Hudson Plan 2026-2030 – second reading). - Ordinance 24-133 (Release of reservation strip in Pine Trails Subdivision – second reading). Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of the November 12, 2024 meeting (7-0). - Adopted Honorary Resolution 24-134 honoring Frank Comeriato (7-0). - Appointed Charter Review Committee members as detailed above. - Approved consent agenda (minus items A and D) in its entirety (7-0). - Acknowledged October 2024 Financial Report (Motion 24-0113) (7-0). - Adopted Resolution 24-136 authorizing the Blue Creek Wind schedule with AMP (7-0). - Adopted on third reading: - Resolution 24-124 (East Hudson Hills sign license agreements) (7-0). - Ordinance 24-125 (vacating a portion of Harding Boulevard in Boston Park Subdivision) (7-0). - Resolution 24-126 (Five-Year Plan 2025-2029, as amended on November 19, 2024) (7-0). - Ordinance 24-127 (2025 annual appropriations, as amended on November 19, 2024) (7-0). - Entered executive session at 8:43 PM to discuss promotion/appointment of a public employee and confidential matters; no further business was conducted upon return, and the meeting adjourned at 8:43 PM.

The Hudson Planning Commission met on Monday, November 18, 2024, at 7:30 PM in Town Hall. Chair David Nystrom called the meeting to order with all seven members present. After swearing in all testifiers, the commission addressed routine approvals, a continued text amendment, and a major site plan request. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (October 14, 2024): The minutes were approved as amended by a vote of 6–0–1 (Chair Nystrom abstained due to absence). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered. Discussion Items - Correspondence: One item of correspondence related to Case 2024-1186 (Preserve of Hudson) was noted. - Old Business – Text Amendment to Section 1206.05 (Case 2024-1085): Staff presented updated language addressing non-conforming residential properties’ ability to rebuild or expand after destruction. Commissioners discussed potential disparities between reconstruction (allowed up to 150% of previous floor area) and additions (limited to 25% enlargement under Section 1206.05(e)(1)(C)). Commissioner Stolle highlighted the inequity, and the commission directed staff to reconcile the conflict. A motion to postpone consideration with a directive to align the text with Section 1206.05(e)(1)(C) passed unanimously (7–0). - New Business – Preserve of Hudson Major Site Plan (Case 2024-1186): The applicant, represented by Kevin Hoffman (Polaris Engineering) and Hanna Cohan (Triban Investment), sought approval for a 29-unit townhome development. Commissioner Norman identified missing submittal requirements from Appendix A of the Land Development Code, including full staking (property boundaries, building envelopes, limits of disturbance, parking areas) and a performance bond. Staff clarified staking is for commission orientation, and the performance bond is typically required post-approval. The applicant stated staking was partially done but removed, and offered a letter of bonding ability. Commissioner Norman argued the application was incomplete and moved to table. After debate on precedent and fairness, the motion carried 4–3 (Norman, Romano, Nystrom, Innamorato in favor; Stolle, Vaughan, Smith opposed). The item was tabled until the December 9, 2024 meeting, contingent on full staking (or explanation of impossibility) and a written bonding capability statement, to be completed within 10 days. Key Outcomes - Text Amendment (Case 2024-1085): Postponed with directive to staff to resolve conflicts in Section 1206.05(e)(1)(C); will return for further consideration. - Preserve of Hudson Site Plan (Case 2024-1186): Tabled due to incomplete application. Applicant must complete staking of four specified items and provide a letter of bonding ability. Staff will communicate exact requirements in writing. Target date for decision: December 9, 2024. - Staff Update: A line item for 2025 goals discussion will be added to the December agenda. Copies of the Comprehensive Plan will be provided to commission members. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 8:43 PM.

The Hudson City Council held a regular meeting and workshop on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, beginning at 6:15 PM with an executive session to interview applicants for the Charter Review Commission. The public meeting commenced at 7:30 PM and was followed by a workshop that ended at 10:52 PM. Key actions included approving the consent agenda, adopting a resolution to purchase approximately 10.77 acres from Norfolk Southern Railway for a rails-to-trail project, and extensive public testimony on fire/EMS response times. The council also discussed the expiration of a moratorium on marijuana-related activities and agreed to move the item to the November 26 workshop for revision. Consent Calendar - Approved by a 7-0 vote, including: - Motion 24-0111: Terminate the Job Creation Grant Agreement with Diebold Nixdorf, Inc. due to the entity vacating the project site at 50 Executive Parkway. - Resolution 24-128: Authorize a dispatch service agreement with the Village of Peninsula. - Resolution 24-129: Authorize a dispatch service agreement with the Valley Fire District. - Resolution 24-130: Authorize an intergovernmental agreement with Summit County to move two console positions to the AT&T Vesta Master Service Agreement. Public Comments & Testimony - Tracey Corpus (7310 Valley View Rd.) questioned why Hudson relies on mutual aid for fire services and suggested a test run to measure actual response times. She also noted house fires on Hudson Aurora Road and Hudson Dr., the latter resulting in a fatality (Ronald Reaney, age 76). - Katie Mang (2262 Weir Dr.) described her total loss house fire in March 2023. Response times were 11 and 14 minutes for Hudson fire trucks, with first mutual aid arriving at 20 minutes. She reported being labeled as "irate" in official documents and being yelled at by fire personnel upon arrival. She urged acceptance of citizen feedback from the fire/EMS study. - Samantha D'Eramo (143 Atterbury) stated that Hudson needs a full-time fire department and should implement a hybrid model in the short term, citing an outdated paid-on-call model. - Matthew D'Eramo (143 Atterbury) shared that his house fire on January 7, 2024, resulted in total loss after a 12-minute response. He argued that the city has known about deficiencies since 2002 and called for a hybrid model, saying "every second counts." - John Kavulic (386 Atterbury) noted that residents pay high property taxes and expect top-notch public services. - Katie Madio (135 Atterbury) stated the city has a responsibility to meet minimum standards of a hybrid model. - Trish Webster (131 Old Orchard Dr.) commented on the censure of Councilmember Kowalski, criticizing Council President Foster's actions and the costs of related lawsuits (over $300,000 settlement to former city manager Jane Howington and an additional $80,000). She urged council to focus on city business. Discussion Items - Moratorium on Marijuana-Related Activities (Item 24-0110): The one-year moratorium (Resolution 23-166) expires December 12, 2024. Staff noted that a land development code regulation already directs such uses to District 9 with 500-foot setbacks. Council discussed extending the moratorium to gather public input. Councilmember Banweg noted that 51.8% of Hudson voters approved Issue 2 in the 2023 election, with 14 of 18 precincts in favor, but that a thin majority does not clearly indicate support for local dispensaries. After debate, council agreed to move the item to the November 26 workshop for revision, as the draft resolution contained an error stating Hudson has no planning and zoning framework for marijuana activities, which is factually incorrect. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved (6-1): Minutes of October 5, 12, 15, and 22, 2024, were approved with Councilmember Kowalski voting nay. - Proclamation: Recognized America Recycles Day (November 15, 2024). Dr. Joseph Ortiz, Chair of the Environmental Awareness Committee, accepted. - Resolution 24-121 Adopted (7-0): Authorized the City Manager to enter into a purchase and sale agreement with Norfolk Southern Railway Company for approximately 10.77 acres at a total cost of $540,000 ($510,000 for property, $30,000 for railroad abandonment) for a future rails-to-trail project. - Other Legislation (Readings): - Second readings: Resolutions 24-124 (East Hudson Hills signs), 24-126 (Five-Year Plan 2025-2029), and Ordinance 24-125 (vacation of Harding Boulevard), 24-127 (2025 budget appropriations). - First readings: Resolution 24-131 (not implementing Growth Management Allocation System in 2025), Resolution 24-132 (Walk and Bike Hudson Plan 2026-2030), Ordinance 24-133 (releasing reservation strip in Pine Trails Subdivision). - Executive Sessions: Two executive sessions were held: one for pending litigation (5-0-2, with Kowalski and Sutton abstaining) and one for real property transfer (7-0). - Workshop Actions: - Forwarded 10 items to the November 19 consent agenda, including the October 2024 financial report, appointments to the Volunteer Fire Fighters' Dependents Fund Board, and resolutions for tax advances, Blue Creek Wind power purchase (3MW to replace retired landfill green energy), Kiwanis grant ($18,686.11 for shade sail at Veterans Way Park splash pad), leaf disposal contract with Kurtz Brothers, 2025 capital maintenance programs, Hines Hill Road and Valley View Road sidewalk project (5-foot wide sidewalk), pavement road ratings (151 centerline miles), and a then-and-now certificate for $4,501.82 for newsletter labels. - Proposed legislation for November 19 includes second/third readings for several items, and a public hearing for Resolution 24-131. - The marijuana moratorium resolution will be revised and discussed at the November 26 workshop.