Public Meetings - Hudson, Ohio

The Hudson City Council met on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 7:30 PM in Town Hall. The primary agenda items were a public hearing on an appeal of the Planning Commission's denial of the Canterbury Crossing preliminary subdivision plan and a discussion of the catastrophic August 8 storm event. Council also approved the consent agenda and entered executive session. Consent Calendar - Minutes of August 6, 2024: Approved 6–0. - Motion 24-0078: Acknowledged timely receipt of the July 2024 monthly financial report. - Resolution 24-94: Authorized advertising for bids and contract for the Herrick Park Drive Drainage Improvement Project (estimated cost $134,000 including contingency). - Resolution 24-95: Amended Resolution 20-58 to increase the Ravenna Road resurfacing project cost from $90,750 to $313,252.21 due to inflation; declared an emergency. - Resolution 24-96: Authorized bids and contract for the Ellsworth Meadows Golf Course Hole 17 retaining wall installation (3' tall wall along 600'). - Resolution 24-97: Authorized public bidding and contract for the City Hall elevator modernization project; declared an emergency. - Resolution 24-98: Approved a then-and-now certificate for a Norfolk Southern Corporation payment of $3,133.98; declared an emergency. - All consent items were approved 6–0. Public Comments & Testimony - Melissa Jones (2233 Ravenna St., former Planning Commission member, speaking as private citizen) argued that the standard of review strongly favors affirming the Planning Commission decision, cited code provisions on wetlands and density, and stated that the plan directs water onto her property in violation of city code. - Skylar Sutton (2243 Ravenna St., Council Member, recused from vote, speaking as resident) objected that the site plan violates sections 660.22 (diversion of water) and 1419.05 (flood paths), and that net density calculations are incorrect; he requested denial of the appeal. - Kim Cosma Segedy (2242 Ravenna St., owner/former resident) stated the area is very wet and runoff is intense; she is fine with development but said the current plan does not fit. - Jared Florian (general public) expressed support, stating it is next to impossible to find property to build a home in Hudson. - Bill Foley (6490 Paderborne Cir.) supported the development, saying he has been looking for land for over a year to build a ranch home and there is significant unmet demand. - John Russell (owner of Prestige Builder Group) noted a change in homebuyer needs (first-floor masters, smaller layouts) and suggested the project could improve existing water issues. - Matthew Jones (2233 Ravenna St., adjacent property owner) said he was never contacted by the developer about the plan. Discussion Items - Public Hearing – Appeal of Canterbury Crossing (Item 24-0076): The appellant (property owner/applicant, represented by Tony Vacanti of Tucker Ellis) argued that the preliminary subdivision plan for a 34-lot open space conservation subdivision on 94.56 acres (53% open space) meets all four criteria for preliminary approval: consistency with the comprehensive plan, compliance with design standards, compatibility with surrounding development, and minimization of land disturbance. They contended that the Planning Commission's denial was biased and that missing wetland/stormwater details are typical for preliminary plans and would be addressed at final plan stage. City staff (Community Development Director Hannan) noted missing wetland information, stormwater discharge onto adjacent property, and that other layouts could meet open space conservation requirements. Council members expressed concerns about stormwater management, flooding risks, and compatibility. After testimony, Council voted to affirm the Planning Commission's denial. - Discussion of August 8, 2024 Storm Event (Item 24-0077): City Manager Sheridan described the storm as a 500-year event, with 6.98 inches of rain in 24 hours (6.2 inches from 6-9 PM). This far exceeded typical infrastructure design (10-year to 100-year). Over 300 flood reports were received, categorized as stormwater, sump pump failure, or sanitary sewer backup. Staff presented timelines of response by Hudson Fire/EMS, Police, Public Works, and Hudson Public Power. The 2003 flood (7.3 inches over 24 hours) was compared. Short-term solutions include clearing debris and ensuring free-flowing systems; long-term plans include comprehensive stormwater management studies for Tinkers Creek and Brandywine Creek. Council asked about sanitary pump station failures, design standards, county cooperation, and homeowner resources. Key Outcomes - Appeal Denied: Council voted 4–0–1 (Sutton recused, Kowalski abstained) to affirm the Planning Commission's denial of the preliminary subdivision plan for Canterbury Crossing, adopting the findings of fact from the July 8, 2024 Planning Commission motion. - Governor's Disaster Declaration: Council directed the City Manager to draft a letter to Governor DeWine requesting a disaster declaration for the county. - Storm Recovery: Council will receive updates every two weeks. Staff will categorize flood issues and meet with Summit County on sanitary sewer infrastructure. - Appointments: Applications for the Charter Review Commission are due August 30, 2024; applications for a partial term vacancy on the Planning Commission are due September 6, 2024. - Executive Session: Council entered executive session at 10:05 PM to discuss the purchase of public property; reconvened at 10:24 PM and adjourned.

The Hudson Planning Commission met Monday, August 12, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall, 27 East Main Street, Hudson, Ohio. All seven commissioners were present: Chair David Nystrom, Vice Chair Sarah Norman, Fred Innamorato, Melissa Jones, Matt Romano, Ronald Stolle, and Erik Vaughan. Chair Nystrom swore in those who would give testimony. The commission approved three sets of minutes, continued a Laurel Lake conditional-use case, recommended approval of the 2024 Hudson Comprehensive Plan, approved an outdoor classroom pavilion for Ellsworth Hill Elementary, and recommended a sidewalk funds-in-lieu text amendment to City Council. Approval of Minutes - April 25, 2024 joint City Council/Planning Commission minutes were approved 4–0 with 3 abstentions (motion by Ms. Norman, second by Mr. Romano; Jones, Norman, Vaughan, and Romano voting aye). - July 8, 2024 minutes were approved 3–1–3 after discussion about whether 14 individual findings of fact in the previous decision had been unanimously agreed to. Mr. Stolle objected to presenting them as unanimous findings of fact; staff and other commissioners noted the minutes corresponded to the written decision and that the single motion had passed. Voting aye: Norman, Romano, Nystrom; nay: Stolle; abstaining: Jones, Vaughan, Innamorato. - July 22, 2024 minutes were approved 4–0–3 (motion by Mr. Stolle, second by Mr. Vaughan; Norman, Stolle, Vaughan, and Nystrom voting aye). Public Discussion & Correspondence - No member of the public spoke during the Public Discussion portion of the agenda. - Commissioner Melissa Jones announced her resignation, effective after this meeting, because she accepted a position with the U.S. District Court in Akron; ethics and conflict rules require her to leave governmental boards. Chair Nystrom thanked her for her service. Mr. Vaughan will assume her role as the Industrial Subcommittee representative. Old Business Laurel Lake – PC 2024-221 - The applicant requested continuation of its conditional use/site plan request for seven additional duplex buildings (14 total units) at the Laurel Lake continuing care retirement community. A motion to continue to the September 9, 2024, Planning Commission meeting passed 7–0. - Note: The agenda and minutes body state the request was to continue to September 9, 2024, but the minutes attachment list references a letter requesting continuation to the 10.14.24 meeting; the commission's voted action was to continue to September 9. 2024 Hudson Comprehensive Plan – PC 2024-820 - Steering Committee Chair Rebecca Leiter, 134 Aurora Street, and Vice Chair Jessie Obert, 76 Parmalee Drive, answered commissioners' questions and responded to prior comments, referencing an August 6, 2024 memo of agreed changes. - Commissioners discussed the YDC property future land use designation. Mr. Innamorato expressed concern that designating YDC as office park did not align with the community survey, citing 88% resident support for parks and describing the property as a potential major park amenity. The Steering Committee representatives stated the committee deliberately chose to keep YDC as an income-producing/tax-base opportunity and modified the text to maintain passive open space until a transformative user is identified; they also noted the park district already has undeveloped parkland. - Ms. Norman suggested clarifying photo captions and integrating Land Development Code language into the future land use descriptions; she circulated a comparison of proposed Plan language and LDC language for pages 64–70. - Public testimony: Joe Matava, 312 Aurora Street, encouraged commissioners to use independent thought about land use rather than deciding solely by popular sentiment. - Staff explained that the Planning Commission makes recommendations to City Council; Council may adopt, adjust, or send the document back to the Steering Committee. - Motion by Ms. Norman, seconded by Mr. Vaughan: recommend approval of the Comprehensive Plan as presented and amended by the Steering Committee chair/vice chair, incorporating the agreed changes from the August 6, 2024 memo, and recommend that City Council consider refining the future land use language on pages 64–70. The motion passed 7–0. New Business Ellsworth Hill Elementary Outdoor Pavilion – PC 2024-816 - Hudson City Schools requested a conditional use to construct a 30-by-40-foot open-air outdoor classroom pavilion at Ellsworth Hill Elementary, 7750 Stow Road. Staff noted it would be an ancillary instructional structure, not adding classrooms or staffing, and would incorporate wood salvaged from the former Flood House barn at 1213 Barlow Road. Applicant representatives were John Peterson of GDP Group, 520 S. Main Street, Akron, and Tom Barone, Hudson City Schools director of operations, 76 North Hayden Parkway. - Discussion covered: project timing (work could begin in early September and take about two months, with an early October start cutoff), use as a land lab, stormwater direction, removal of two small elm trees for the sidewalk, distance from the west property line (71 feet) and nearest west residence (about 200 feet), mature west buffer, roughly $135,000 budget largely funded by a $65,000 State of Ohio grant and donations, no installed electricity (viewed as a positive by some neighbors; cameras could be added to existing light poles if needed), and the community learning center designation. - Commissioners also noted that the 21% impervious surface figure in the application was for the project disturbed area, not the entire 15.81-acre parcel, prompting the added verification condition. - Public testimony: Suzette Talarcek, 7745 Stow Road, asked whether the pavilion would be limited to school/HCER use or open to outside organizations and the public. - Commission deliberation included whether to attach use restrictions. Some commissioners cautioned against arbitrary restrictions, noted the precedent of the Seton School pavilion, and observed that the newly recommended Comprehensive Plan encourages use of public spaces. The commission instead relied on staff conditions. - Mr. Stolle moved approval subject to the conditions on page 5 of the August 12, 2024 staff report; Mr. Vaughan's amendment, seconded by Ms. Jones, added a fourth condition to verify proposed impervious surface compliance. The amendment passed 7–0, and the final motion passed 7–0. Section 1207.13 Text Amendment – PC 2024-842 - City Council directed review of an amendment to Section 1207.13 (Transportation/Circulation/Pedestrian Linkage) to allow sidewalk funds-in-lieu in all zoning districts with Planning Commission approval. The item arose from a Board of Zoning Appeals variance case at 1931 Georgetown Road where funds-in-lieu was not currently permitted. - Staff and commissioners discussed that funds-in-lieu payments are restricted to sidewalk construction, calculated from an engineer's estimate using prevailing wage, and can be used for sidewalks elsewhere in the city. There was discussion about whether the amount is 100% or 70% of the estimate; the transcript shows speakers correcting to 70%, but the basis for that percentage was not explained. Commissioners also compared the proposal to parkland dedication and supported consolidating sidewalk regulations in a future amendment. - Motion by Ms. Norman, seconded by Ms. Jones, to recommend City Council approve Ordinance 24-86 because it meets review criteria items a, b, c, d, and i in Section 1204.01. The motion passed 7–0. Staff Update - Staff noted pending September applications: Laurel Lake continuation and a possible replat along Barlow Road/Coolidge (previously introduced by John Carr). Key Outcomes - Approved April 25, July 8, and July 22 minutes. - Acknowledged Commissioner Jones' resignation and Vaughan's assumption of her subcommittee role. - Continued Laurel Lake (PC 2024-221) to September 9, 2024, by a 7–0 vote. - Recommended the 2024 Comprehensive Plan to City Council (7–0), including agreed August 6 memo changes and a suggestion to refine future land use language on pages 64–70. - Approved the Ellsworth Hill Elementary pavilion conditional use (7–0) with three staff conditions plus a fourth impervious-surface verification condition. - Recommended Ordinance 24-86 amending Section 1207.13 to City Council (7–0). - Adjourned at 9:52 p.m.

Hudson City Council held a regular meeting at 7:30 PM and a workshop at 8:54 PM on August 6, 2024, at Town Hall. The meeting covered consent agenda items, honorary resolutions, public comments, legislation, and workshop discussions on park board goals and a land development code amendment for nonconforming residential uses. Consent Calendar - Minutes of Previous Meetings (24-0073): Approved unanimously for July 16 and July 23, 2024 meetings. - Consent Agenda (24-89 to 24-93): Approved unanimously. Items included: - Resolution 24-89: Consent to ODOT resurfacing of Stow Road under I-480 bridges; state assumes 100% of costs. - Resolution 24-90: Authorization for College Street culvert replacement project (emergency declaration). - Resolution 24-91: Lease agreement with Republic First National Corp. for a street sweeper funded by $560,000 of excess general fund carryover. - Resolution 24-92: One-year natural gas supply agreement with Eastern Power and Gas. - Resolution 24-93: Purchase of one sewer cleaning combo truck for Public Works (also funded from $560,000 carryover). Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Ron Brubaker (Trail Advocates of Summit County) urged Hudson to initiate a discussion with Boston Heights regarding the Heights to Hudson Multipurpose Trail. He noted Boston Heights was awarded a $900,000 grant but had not started construction, and expressed concern the trail would become a "trail to nowhere" without coordination. Honorary Resolutions - Resolution 24-87: Honored Mr. Thomas Vince for 29 years of service as historian and archivist at Western Reserve Academy. Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 24-88: Honored Mr. Thomas King for his ten-year service on the Park Board, including chairing the board and involvement in the Master Parks Plan, trails, conservation, and inclusive playground. Adopted unanimously. Legislation - Resolution 24-63 (Park Facility Reservation Policy): Staff requested a postponement. Council suspended the three-reading rule and postponed the item to a date certain of September 17, 2024, due to ongoing discussions about the referral process to boards and commissions. Executive Session - Council entered executive session at 8:14 PM to discuss pending litigation (ORC 121.22(G)(3) and (5)). Member Nicole Kowalski recused herself. The session lasted until 8:48 PM. Discussion Items (Workshop) - Park Board Goals and Objectives (24-0074): Park Board Chair Linda O'Neil presented the 2024 priorities, which include maintaining and protecting assets, responding to changing community needs, creating opportunities for all, partnerships, and communication. Council discussed the feasibility of completing a 22-item priority list with only six meetings per year. Suggestions included creating measurable goals (SMART), increasing communication via the council liaison, exploring revenue-generating activities (e.g., kayak rentals), and pursuing a land swap with Summit Metro Parks (50 acres of Dock Woods for 20 acres at Hudson Springs). The 2024 park board budget is approximately $5 million (including $3.3 million in capital). Council asked for prioritization and more frequent updates. - Land Development Code Amendment (TMP-7410): Community Development Director Greg Hannan presented proposed changes to Chapters 1205 and 1206 regarding setbacks and nonconforming residential uses in Districts 6 and 8. The amendment would increase the required setback for new commercial/industrial development adjacent to residentially-used properties (from 50 ft to 100 ft) and allow rebuilding of nonconforming residential structures up to 150% of original size if damaged or destroyed by any means. Debate focused on balancing resident protections with business development. Some members opposed the blanket setback increase, arguing it would hinder commercial development in designated districts. Others supported it as a buffer for existing homeowners. Council requested splitting the amendment into two separate pieces: one for D6/D8 setbacks, and one for nonconforming use rebuild standards. Staff was also asked to clarify that the 150% rebuild allowance is a one-time event and require damage to be from "acts of God" or accidental causes. The revised items will be brought back to the August 27, 2024 workshop. Key Outcomes - Consent items approved unanimously. - Honorary resolutions adopted unanimously. - Resolution 24-63 postponed to September 17, 2024. - Executive session held on pending litigation. - Park Board discussion: Council directed the Park Board to prioritize goals, provide measurable targets, and improve communication through the council liaison. - LDC amendment: Council directed staff to split the proposal, revise language for rebuild provisions, and present two separate ordinances at the August 27 workshop. - Proposed Consent Agenda Items for August 20 meeting (all forwarded): - A: July 2024 Financial Report. - B: Herrick Park Drive Drainage Improvement Project (estimated $134,000). - C: Amending Ravenna Road resurfacing cost from $90,750 to $313,252.21 due to inflation. - D: Ellsworth Meadows Golf Course Hole 17 retaining wall installation. - E: City Hall elevator modernization project. - F: Then-and-now certificate for Norfolk Southern invoice ($3,133.98). - Future agenda items: Councilmember Sutton to bring parliamentary procedure revision to August 27 workshop; Councilmember Banweg working on legislation for carry-over funds set-aside for infrastructure; proclamations for Hudson High School Orchestra and "Take a Second, Make a Difference." - The regular meeting was adjourned at 8:48 PM; the workshop adjourned at 9:38 PM.

On Tuesday, July 23, 2024, the Hudson City Council held a workshop meeting beginning at 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall. The agenda covered a proposed lease extension for Destination Hudson, a public art installation proposal from Leadership Hudson, glass recycling options, the use of a $1.3 million General Fund excess carryover balance, and an appeal of a Planning Commission decision on a subdivision. Several consent agenda items were forwarded for the August 6, 2024 council meeting. The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m. Consent Calendar - ODOT Stow Road Resurfacing (TMP-7363/24-89): A resolution consenting to ODOT resurfacing Stow Road under the I-480 bridges at 100% state cost. Forwarded. - College Street Culvert Replacement (TMP-7398/24-90): Emergency resolution authorizing bidding for replacement of a failing box culvert. Forwarded. - Public Works Equipment (TMP-7384/24-91): Resolution to purchase a jet/vacuum truck, street sweeper, and material handling truck. After discussion (see Key Outcomes), council directed a modified approach. Forwarded. - Natural Gas Supply (TMP-7389/24-92): Resolution authorizing a 1-year agreement with Eastern Power and Gas following a broker’s recommendation. Forwarded. - Park Facility Reservation Policy (24-63): Proposed resolution (second reading) was postponed to September 3, 2024, after the Park Board continued its review. Public Comments & Testimony - Glass Recycling Letters: Council Member Goetz read two letters in support of a glass recycling program. Dr. Françoise Massardier-Kenney (63 College Street) detailed Akron’s cost-effective model with Owens Illinois offering free pick-up, urging Hudson to adopt a similar drop-off program. Eric Hancsak (60 Division Street) expressed strong personal support for a local glass recycling option. Discussion Items - Destination Hudson Lease Extension (24-0069): Representatives Dave Basil and Liz Murphy presented the request for a 10-year lease (2025-2035). Council members discussed alternatives, including folding Destination Hudson into city operations, leveraging volunteer hours, and creating a coordinator position for visitor services and senior programs. President Foster emphasized the need for the board to consider a potential merger. The majority sentiment was not to renew the lease but to explore integration into city government. - Leadership Hudson Class of 2024 Public Art (24-0070): The class proposed a “Hudson” sign installation similar to other communities. Council suggested Park Lane Green as an alternative location to capture the clock tower backdrop, preferred clean script lettering over wrapped designs, and recommended gathering public input via surveys or events. Council expressed strong support for the project to proceed with those adjustments. - Glass Recycling Options (24-0071): Assistant City Manager Comeriato presented options from Repeat Glass, including a dumpster at City Hall ($3,000/year) or curbside pickup ($7/month per household). Council debated the usage of a drop-off site versus a paid curbside program. Council Member Sutton questioned the survey methodology and predicted low participation for a drop-off. Council directed staff to investigate the curbside option and report back. - General Fund Excess Carryover (24-0072): City Manager Sheridan noted $1.3 million available after earmarking $300,000 for 2024 appropriations. Director of Public Works Powell presented needs for a jet/vacuum truck, street sweeper, and material handler (total $937,000). Council debated paying off debt vs. purchasing equipment. Council Member Banweg and President Foster advocated for prioritization and infrastructure accrual legislation. Council directed purchasing the jet/vacuum truck outright and leasing the other two, with remaining funds to be allocated later. - Canterbury Crossing Appeal (TMP-7404): Community Development Director Hannan provided background on the appeal of the Planning Commission’s denial of a 34-lot open space subdivision. President Foster strongly disagreed with a “de novo” hearing, arguing council should review for abuse of discretion. City Solicitor Pitchford was asked to provide a legal memo. The matter was scheduled for a public hearing on August 20, 2024, with council action required that evening. Key Outcomes - Destination Hudson: Council indicated no lease renewal; instead, express interest in merging the visitor center into city operations. DH Board will consider and may return with a plan. - Leadership Hudson Project: Approved in concept; fundraising and public input to proceed with modifications (location, font, public feedback). - Glass Recycling: Staff to research curbside program costs and feasibility; report to council. - General Fund: Purchase one jet/vacuum truck outright ($313,000) and lease-to-own the street sweeper and material handler ($200,000/year for 5 years). Remaining excess to be addressed in future legislation on infrastructure accrual. - Canterbury Crossing Appeal: Public hearing set for August 20; council to hear evidence and vote that evening. - Consent Agenda Items: All four resolutions (Stow Road, College Street culvert, equipment, natural gas) forwarded for August 6 council meeting. - Park Reservation Policy: Resolution 24-63 postponed to September 3 due to park board delay; council to revisit parliamentary procedure. - Future Agendas: Honorary resolution for Tom Vince (Western Reserve Academy) and a proclamation for Hudson High School Chamber Orchestra’s gold medal will appear at the August 6 meeting.

The Planning Commission (PC) held a public hearing to review the draft 2024 City of Hudson Comprehensive Plan, updated every 10 years per charter. The Steering Committee (Rebecca Leiter, Chair; Jessie Obert, Vice Chair) presented the 20-month process, community engagement results, and plan framework. No formal action was taken; the PC will consider a recommendation at its August 12 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Rhonda Grainger (2415 Norton Road) thanked the city for connectivity improvements (e.g., Heinz Hill path) and urged continuation of such efforts, especially to the outer edges of the city. Discussion Items - Process & Community Engagement: Commissioners applauded the thorough, citizen-led process (17-member committee, statistically valid survey with 20% response rate, focus groups, pop-ups). Mr. Vaughan noted the plan was a great improvement and appreciated charts on population and housing age. Mr. Stolle, a committee member, praised the committee’s work but noted the survey’s construct validity might have led some priorities (e.g., pool) to surface prominently. - Youth Development Center (YDC) Property: A key focus area. Mr. Vaughan questioned the “For Sale” sign if land use is not finalized. Staff clarified council is deferring decisions until plan adoption; the plan directs economic development/income-generating use, not major manufacturing. Conservation easements and existing residential are noted. Ms. Norman observed the draft language shift from emphasizing passive open space to immediate development; she urged retaining the original intent (maintain as open space until a transformational user is identified). - Growth Limits & Housing: Ms. Norman noted the survey found 78% of respondents want little or no additional residential growth, yet the plan lacks a clear directive to limit development. She requested explicit linkage of survey results to plan goals. Mr. Stolle noted the committee debated but could not agree on a “no growth” statement. Housing mix data (senior housing, duplexes) and developable land inventory were suggested additions. - Land Development Code (LDC) Review: Mr. Stolle pointed to objectives 1.1, 2.11, and 5.71 that call for updating the LDC, which falls under PC purview. He recommended a separate committee for an in-depth LDC review, given likely 3-4 year effort. Commissioners Mr. Innamorato agreed strongly. - Traffic Study: The implementation matrix suggests a citywide traffic study every 10 years. Mr. Vaughan asked when the last one occurred; staff said none have been done citywide—only corridors like Route 91. The plan directs a full study as a priority. - Cemeteries & Infrastructure: Ms. Norman raised concern that the city’s cemetery space is nearly exhausted, yet the plan does not address future needs or land for expansion. Water/sewer capacity (sufficient) and traffic constraints were discussed. - Plan Format & Usability: Ms. Norman criticized wasted pages (“intentionally left blank”) and the cumbersome appendix. She noted circular language in land-use descriptions (e.g., “as described in the underlying zoning district”) that sends users back to the LDC without providing planning guidance. - Recreation Facility (Pool): Though public sentiment was strong, the implementation matrix acknowledges cost and prioritization challenges. Staff indicated it is not assigned near-term. - South Entry & Placemaking: Focus on Route 91 corridor beautification (streetscape, lighting) to signal entry into Hudson. Darrowville area also discussed. Key Outcomes - No vote was taken. The PC will consider a motion to adopt the Comprehensive Plan (possibly with recommended changes) at the August 12, 2024 meeting. - Ms. Norman will compile a detailed, page-by-page list of comments and recommendations for staff to incorporate into a summary memo for commissioners. - Staff will produce a summary of discussion points to focus the August recommendation. - The public hearing portion was closed at 8:30 p.m.; the meeting adjourned.

The Hudson City Council held a regular meeting on July 16, 2024 at Town Hall, with Mayor Jeffrey Anzevino presiding and six of seven council members present. The meeting was preceded by an executive session to interview applicants for boards and commissions. Business included approval of minutes, a proclamation, financial and administrative consent items, and legislation regarding zoning variance procedures. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approved: The July 9, 2024 combined meeting and workshop minutes were approved by a vote of six in favor to zero against. - Proclamation: Mayor Anzevino proclaimed July 12, 2024 as “Together Women Rise Day” in Hudson in recognition of the group's annual fundraising gala. - Approved Consent Agenda: The Council approved all consent items, including: Resolution 24-80 authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with BCI for design services for the new Public Works and Hudson Public Power Facility, Resolution 24-81 amending the 2024 budget, Resolution 24-82 authorizing application to the Ohio Rail Development Commission for the Heinz Hill Road Grade Separation Project, Resolutions 24-80 through 24-85 and other consent items as listed. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the public comment period. Council members offered comments on various topics, including the SR 91 project, the City's 225th anniversary, and the Together Women Rise proclamation. Discussion Items - Proposed Zoning Legislation (24-86): Council discussed Ordinance 24-86, which seeks to clarify conflicting variance precedents granted by the Board of Zoning & Building Appeals. Council Member Skylar Sutton voted against suspending the rules due to concerns about sudden changes in parliamentary procedures and a lack of clarity. A motion to postpone the legislation to a date certain of September 17, 2024 was passed by a vote of five in favor to one against. - Appointments: Council President Foster introduced a Charter Review Commission to review the Hudson City Charter, noting the commission would appoint between seven and eleven residents and likely meet between January and July of 2025. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously. - Consent agenda approved. - Ordinance 24-86 postponed to September 17, 2024. - Appointment of Jamie Stradinsky to the Architectural and Historic Board of Review confirmed. - Executive session held to discuss pending litigation. Executive Session - Council moved into executive session pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22(G)(3) and (5) to confer with legal counsel regarding pending litigation. No additional public business occurred after reconvening.

President of Council Chris Foster convened the Hudson City Council Regular Meeting at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at Town Hall, 27 East Main Street, in the absence of Mayor Anzevino. The regular meeting was followed by a workshop; the regular meeting adjourned at 7:59 p.m. and the workshop concluded at 8:38 p.m. Consent Calendar - Council approved the minutes of the June 18, 2024 Combined Meeting and Workshop. - Council suspended the rules and approved the Consent Agenda, including Resolution 24-77. Related attachments included the Hudson Inclusive Playground Group (HIP) settlement agreement, which resolved all disputes between her and the city, and the FEMA Approval Letter dated April 19, 2024. - Council Member Sutton said he could not agree to any lease in City Hall and that the City should not be in the leasing business; Council Member Banweg agreed but said the legislation complies with previously established guidelines. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public came forward during the public comment period. Council Comments & Statements - A statement from Council Member Nicole Kowalski (who was unable to attend) was read into the record. She discussed her appeal of a censure and the related case, City of Hudson v. Jane Doe, criticizing subpoenas issued to residents and political figures, including State Representative Casey Weinstein, council members Patricia Getz and Mike Byrd, former candidate Madeleine Lapiti Carino, Patsy Simons, and Don Reed. She criticized the use and cost of special counsel, quoting the City Charter that the city solicitor shall represent the municipality, and said a judge had found a claim frivolous. She said she would vote yes on the settlement to avoid additional appeal costs. - Council Member Banweg thanked Mayor Anzevino for leading the effort on the new City flag, noting the city's 225th anniversary. Discussion Items - Public Works and Hudson Public Power Facility Design: City Manager Sheridan reviewed the RFP/RFQ process for the 30-acre site and the new facility, including design phases at 30, 60, 90, and 100 percent. The BCI fee proposal was discussed; it was lower than expected, and following interviews staff recommended including Hudson Public Power in the full scope as an alternate. A motion regarding the proposal was forwarded to the July 16 meeting. - Proposed Consent Agenda Items for July 16, 2024: Financial summaries and a budget amendment ordinance were discussed, with a planned change to combine two funds into one note. - Sidewalk Ordinance and BCBA Conflicting Decisions: Council discussed a draft ordinance to address conflicting Board of Zoning and Building Appeals (BCBA) rulings on whether developers must install sidewalks or pay cash-in-lieu. Members questioned whether the language should apply to all zoning districts or be narrower, and discussed the option to decline sidewalk construction or accept cash-in-lieu. Council also critiqued the Planning Commission's public hearing process, noting resident testimony was limited to five minutes while the applicant had nearly two hours. - Railroad Crossing Grant: Sheridan reported that the Ohio Railway Commission is applying for a grant on the City's behalf for a bridge project. The application is about 90% complete; letters of support will be needed from every Council member as individuals and from adjacent mutual-aid communities. No residents will be displaced. Consultant input is due back July 12, 2024, with Council consideration anticipated in August. Key Outcomes - Approved the June 18, 2024 minutes and the Consent Agenda, including Resolution 24-77. - Forwarded to the July 16, 2024 Council meeting: the motion on facility design fees, a resolution, and the sidewalk/BCBA ordinance. - For the railroad crossing grant, letters of support from all Council members and adjacent communities are to be provided; the application is expected before Council in August.

The Hudson Planning Commission met on Monday, July 8, 2024, at 7:30 PM in Town Hall, 27 East Main Street, Hudson, Ohio. Four commissioners were present (Norman, Nystrom, Romano, Stolle), with two absent (Vaughan and Jones). The meeting covered approval of prior minutes, two public hearings, and a staff update. The Commission denied the preliminary subdivision for Canterbury Crossing and tabled the Laurel Lake conditional use and site plan request to August 21, 2024. Consent Calendar - The April 25, 2024 joint City Council/Planning Commission meeting minutes were not approved due to a tie vote (2 ayes, 2 abstentions) and were continued to the next regular meeting. - The May 13, 2024 Planning Commission meeting minutes were approved with edits (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony Canterbury Crossing (Case 2023-676) - Betty Moon (277 Ravenna Street) questioned traffic increase on Ravenna Street and whether a traffic analysis had been conducted. - Skyler Sutton (2243 Ravenna Street) objected to the approval process, stating the compatibility review for a different plan should not apply, and raised concerns about stormwater overflow, discharge pipes directly onto his property, density standards, and stormwater pond sufficiency. - Matt Miller (310 Ravenna Street) described water runoff directed onto his property and concerns if the application is approved. - Joshua Manley (2078 Ravenna Street) expressed concerns about rural character, the homebuilder's history, a recent survey showing little desire for this type of development, increased traffic, and stormwater problems. - Dana Zahuranec (2161 Ravenna Street) questioned who pays for sewer line extension, stated proposed signage would not enhance rural character, and asked about removed dirt, pond water levels, aeration, and stormwater drainage. - Chris Cosma (2242 Ravenna Street) read a submitted letter objecting to the plan, estimating over 300,000 square feet of impervious surface and urging rejection. - John Slagter (950 Main Ave, Cleveland), attorney for the developer, argued the plan was revised to address concerns, agreed to remove lot 13, stated a traffic study was completed, and noted that the Land Development Code (LDC) has ambiguities. - John Russell (Prestige Builder Group) spoke to housing diversity, current housing market trends, and a five-to-six-year buildout timeline. Laurel Lake (Case 2024-221) - Mimi Becker (47 Laurel Lake Drive) raised concerns about the traffic survey not considering truck traffic and staff vehicles, headlight glare into unit 5, and water runoff and contaminants requiring a water quality study. Discussion Items Canterbury Crossing Preliminary Subdivision (Case 2023-676) - Staff introduced the application as the second of three steps for a 34-lot open space conservation subdivision, noting the applicant made appreciable changes but wetland documentation and other items remained. - Chris Brown (representing Kuchar LLC and George Vizmeg) presented revisions, including increased open space to 52% (50% required), relocation of lots, and plans to fill certain wetlands with Army Corps/Ohio EPA permits. - Commissioners and staff discussed stormwater management, tree clearing, utility connections, density calculations, compatibility, and ecological integrity. - City Engineer David Rapp discussed stormwater and potential improvements to neighboring properties. - Commissioner Norman led detailed questioning about rural character, housing diversity, compatibility, environmental impacts, and compliance with the LDC's open space conservation provisions. - Public testimony raised significant concerns about flooding, drainage, and property impacts. - After discussion, Commissioner Norman made a motion to deny, with findings of fact including incompatibility, violation of open space conservation rules, failure to protect environmentally sensitive areas, and lack of innovative design. - The motion to deny was approved 4-0. Laurel Lake Conditional Use and Site Plan (Case 2024-221) - Staff reviewed the application for seven additional duplex buildings (14 units) on the continuing care retirement community site, noting a previous conditional use approval had lapsed. - Jeff Jardine (Riverstone Company) presented the proposal, addressing staff comments on pond setbacks, tree clearing, building 5's setback, and light pole heights. - Donna Anderson (Laurel Lake Marketing Director) reported 92% occupancy in independent living, 100% villa occupancy/reserved, and a waiting list of two to three years. - David Oster (Laurel Lake) stated total estimated construction cost would be around $10 million. - Commissioners questioned impacts on natural resources, ecological integrity, licensing, and the financial stability of Laurel Lake. - Public comment from Mimi Becker highlighted safety and environmental concerns. - After discussion, Mr. Stolle moved to table the public hearing to August 21, 2024, with conditions including a 50-foot wetland setback, further engineering review, and applicant plan revisions. - The motion carried 4-0. Key Outcomes - Canterbury Crossing (Case 2023-676): Denied preliminary subdivision (4-0). The Commission adopted findings of fact citing non-compliance with the Land Development Code. - Laurel Lake (Case 2024-221): Public hearing tabled to August 21, 2024, with revised site plan due by July 24, 2024. The Commission will further review building 5, bank stabilization, and other issues. - Minutes: April 25, 2024 minutes not approved due to tie; May 13, 2024 minutes approved. - Staff Update: Comprehensive Plan review special meeting scheduled for July 22, 2024. - Adjournment: 11:27 PM.

Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the June 4, 2024 Council meeting and June 11, 2024 Council workshop (item 24-0061). - Approved the consent agenda by roll call vote. The agenda materials referenced Resolution 24-70 with June 11 and June 18, 2024 revisions concerning resolution of a dispute with a former employee; per the meeting minutes, the settlement was not voted on at the June 18 regular meeting but was discussed at the post-meeting workshop for action at a future meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident praised the annual Hudson baseball tournaments, describing them as the best and as representative of the community, emphasizing the value of local, ground-level involvement. - A resident spoke in support of park court lights, citing that only one group waited more than eight minutes across three days of observation (and that group received snow cones from a food truck), and suggested the City Manager allow more than one tournament per year with the ability to use the lights. - A resident objected to the city settling a dispute with a former employee, asserting that City Council never voted to authorize the underlying lawsuit or the funds to pay for it, and argued that taxpayers should not bear the costs of actions taken by individual Council members. - A resident expressed concern that HCTV is becoming a communications arm of government rather than a public access channel, noted that citizens have not been surveyed about their HCTV usage or preferences, and recommended the city conduct such a survey. Discussion Items - Proclamation – David Hudson Days: Mayor Anzevino proclaimed June 17 through June 26, 2024, as David Hudson Days in recognition of the city’s 225th anniversary. - Appointments to the Tree Commission: Council approved Jason Bromba for a full term ending July 20, 2028, and Phil Trendell for a partial term ending July 5, 2025, by roll call vote. - Ordinance 24-64 (City Flag): Council adopted an amendment incorporating Exhibit A dated May 21, 2024, and the June 18, 2024 version of the legislation, with clarification to section one. Council Member Sutton expressed support for residents acquiring the flag but stated he does not want the City to become a store for flags. The ordinance passed as amended by roll call. - Ordinance 24-65: Passed by roll call vote. - Ordinance 24-76: Council suspended the rules to refer this ordinance to the Planning Commission and postpone action to a date certain of September 17, 2024. Discussion addressed whether suspending the rules was required for such a referral; Solicitor Pitchford noted that past practice has been to suspend the rules whenever discussing items that are not yet ripe, and that any substantive change by the Planning Commission would require substitute legislation and a new vote. The motion to refer and postpone passed by roll call. - Walk and Bike Plan Public Engagement Update (24-0064): Staff presented what was heard during public engagement and requested confirmation on next steps for developing the draft plan. Council discussed the proposed project ranking system, with one member requesting clarification on major versus minor collector street classifications and another stating that residents should not have to navigate residential streets to reach city connections before easier neighborhood access is provided. No vote was taken; the discussion will inform the draft plan. - Proposed Consent Agenda for July 9, 2024: Council reviewed proposed consent agenda items for the next regular meeting. - Council Comments: Council Member Heater provided a Park Board update. Council also discussed a prior workshop involving the Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) and Hudson Public Power (HPP), with one member stating that time could have been saved if the EAC had coordinated with HPP before presenting to Council. A brief exchange addressed whether false information had been provided, with one member disputing that characterization. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda and prior meeting minutes. - Issued the David Hudson Days proclamation for June 17–26, 2024. - Appointed Jason Bromba and Phil Trendell to the Tree Commission. - Passed Ordinance 24-64 (City Flag) as amended and Ordinance 24-65. - Referred Ordinance 24-76 to the Planning Commission and postponed action to September 17, 2024. - Authorized executive session regarding pending litigation. Executive Session (Litigation) - Council voted 7–0 to enter executive session pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22(G)(3) and (5) and Hudson Codified Ordinances 220.05(B)(3) and (5) to confer with legal counsel concerning a dispute involving the city that is the subject of pending court action and to discuss matters required to be kept confidential by law. The regular meeting recessed at 8:45 p.m. and adjourned at 9:21 p.m. Post-Meeting Workshop - The workshop convened at 9:30 p.m. with Council President Foster presiding. Discussion included the proposed settlement with the former employee, with the understanding that no vote would be taken at the workshop and that action would follow at a subsequent meeting. The workshop adjourned at 9:51 p.m. Note on Source Discrepancy - The agenda materials list Resolution 24-70 (with June 11 and June 18 revisions) as an agenda item for the June 18, 2024 meeting, while the meeting minutes state the settlement would not be voted on that evening but discussed at the workshop. This summary reflects that the consent agenda was approved and that the settlement was discussed at the workshop, consistent with the minutes.