Public Meetings - Powell, Ohio

The Powell Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) met on Thursday, August 6, 2026 at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers at 47 Hall Street. The board approved minutes from the previous meeting (January 8, 2026) and unanimously granted a variance request for a swimming pool at 4696 Hunters Bend Court. The meeting lasted approximately 25 minutes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Meeting Minutes (January 8, 2026): Moved by a member, seconded, and approved unanimously via roll call (De Palma yes, Freeman yes, Duncan yes; Revneck and Brickner absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Applicant Testimony (Emily Norris, property owner): Ms. Norris stated that she and her husband have owned the property for eight years and have desired a pool for five years, but no pool company would work with them due to the variance requirements. She explained that they have added many trees and preserved the natural area, and that they mistakenly believed the tree preservation zone only covered the wooded area. They are eager to proceed with a pool contractor the following week. - No public comments were made for items not on the agenda. Discussion Items - Variance Request 2026-18V – 4696 Hunters Bend Court: Staff Planner Kara presented the case, which involved two requests: (1) a variance to Code Section 1147.06(b)(2) to allow a swimming pool within 9 feet of a drainage easement rather than the required 12 feet, and (2) permission for pool decking to extend 5 feet into a platted tree preservation zone. Staff reported that the city engineer had no concerns with the pool’s proximity to the drainage easement. Staff also noted that a new zoning code approved by City Council on August 4, 2026 (pending a referendum period through September) would eliminate the 12-foot easement setback rule for pools, but the tree preservation zone requirement is based on the plat and would remain. Aerial photos showed no trees where the pool decking would encroach. Staff recommended approval, citing that 6 of 7 variance standards were met. - Board Deliberation: Board members expressed satisfaction with the staff report. One member noted the setback issue would soon be moot under the new code. All agreed there were no tree impacts and that the request met standards. Key Outcomes - Variance Granted (Unanimous): Motion to approve the variance to Section 1147.06(b)(2) allowing a swimming pool within 9 feet of a drainage easement and pool decking extending 5 feet into the tree preservation zone at 4696 Hunters Bend Court. The motion passed 3-0 (De Palma yes, Freeman yes, Duncan yes; Revneck and Brickner absent). - Next Meeting: The board noted that no applications were received for the September meeting (deadline was August 6). The next scheduled meeting is October 1, 2026.

On August 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM, the City of Powell hosted an information session in Council Chambers at 47 Hall Street to educate residents about the city's new electric aggregation program with NOPEC (Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council). The session was led by Genevieve Costanzo, a relationship manager at NOPEC, who presented on Ohio's deregulated energy market, NOPEC's structure as a nonprofit council of governments, program rates, and how residents can opt out or choose alternative rate options. Public Comments & Testimony - Several residents asked questions about the program's opt-out nature, the process for switching suppliers, and how to verify their current supplier. - A resident expressed concern about whether the program's automatic enrollment is fair, questioning the opt-out model; Costanzo explained that opt-in programs historically fail to reach critical mass. - Another resident, citing experience in Concord Township, supported the opt-out model, noting that about 80% of Ohio utility customers stay with their default supplier. - A resident asked about administrative overhead costs; Costanzo noted NOPEC's budget is transparent and available on its website, and offered to look up the specific figure after the meeting. - A resident asked whether NOPEC advocates for consumers against data centers; Costanzo described NOPEC's advocacy branch and cited a $265 million rebate won against Enbridge. - A resident asked about the reliability of the power supply; Costanzo clarified that AEP remains the utility and handles all billing and reliability. Discussion Items - Ohio Deregulation Context: Costanzo explained that Ohio deregulated energy in 2000, separating supply from utility delivery. Residents have a choice in supplier but not utility. - NOPEC Background: Formed by mayors and city managers in the early 2000s to combat predatory sales tactics, NOPEC is a council of governments with an unpaid board, no shareholders, and is subject to FOIA and annual audits. - Rate Options: NOPEC offers a standard program rate (currently 9.99 cents/kWh for Powell through December 2026), a 12-month fixed rate (10.599 cents/kWh), a 24-month fixed rate (10.899 cents/kWh), and a variable rate (6% less than AEP's price to compare). A green energy option is also available with a small upcharge. - Enrollment and Opt-Out: Residents are automatically enrolled unless they already have a supplier, are on a PIP program, or have previously opted out. Opt-out letters are required by law every three years (electric) or two years (gas). Residents can opt out at any time by calling 1-855-NOPEC-01; the hard opt-out deadline for Powell is August 12 or 13, 2026. - Supply and Market: NOPEC's energy supply partner is NextEra Energy, chosen via RFP, with a nine-year contract. The program rate follows the market; a chart showed NOPEC's rate has been consistently below AEP's price to compare for the past two years. - Data Centers: Costanzo stated that data centers are driving electric price increases since 2024, and NOPEC is advocating for ratepayers against utility tariff increases. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal decisions were taken; the session was informational. - Residents were encouraged to contact NOPEC's call center (1-855-NOPEC-01) or visit nopec.org for account-specific questions, rate options, or to opt out. - Costanzo provided her email to attendees for follow-up questions, emphasizing she would stay until all questions were answered. - The program will take effect after the opt-out deadline, with residents who take no action remaining enrolled in the standard program rate. Note: The agenda included a presentation titled "Powell City New Aggregation and Community presentation.pdf" but the minutes were not available; all details are derived from the raw transcript.

At its regular meeting on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 7:30 PM, the Powell City Council received updates on electric aggregation and the Village Green Master Plan, approved four resolutions and two ordinances, and held a second reading and adoption of a major zoning code rewrite. Key votes included the adoption of Resolution 2026-39 extending the Village Green planning contract at no additional cost, and Ordinance 2026-14 adopting a new Planning and Zoning Code with amendments. The council also entered executive session for property, legal, and economic development matters. Consent Calendar - Liquor License Transfer (Consent Agenda): Approved the transfer of a D5 liquor permit from RAMM Partnerships, LLC to J. DAWG LLC, doing business as Elliot's Woodfired Kitchen & Tap at 50 S. Liberty Street, without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Village Green Master Plan: Multiple residents spoke during the public hearing on Resolution 2026-39. Brooke Morey (415 Retreat Lane) requested improved public communication about the process, noting that many residents are unaware. Another resident emphasized the importance of preserving green space, stating it increases property values. Melissa Scott (board president, Olin Tangy Community Theater) thanked the city for supporting the theater and advocated for a year-round indoor performing arts venue. Todd Secret (Liberty Hills) asked for preservation of green space and a focus on the community’s benefit. Tracy Mayberry (446 Briar Bend Blvd) strongly opposed the development direction, calling the Village Green the "crown jewel" and warning that high-density development would worsen traffic and lower quality of life. Ashton Walls (via written comment read aloud) urged council to preserve the Village Green as a tranquil green space. Another resident praised the Amphitheater location and stressed keeping events like Powell Fest downtown to support local businesses. - Zoning Code Rewrite: During the public hearing on Ordinance 2026-14, Megan Dowdell (130 S. Liberty Street) stated the proposed code would prohibit her from building a single-family home on property she owns in the Downtown Mixed-Use district, calling it "a crime." She urged council to vote no and make changes later. Dave Absolom (55 Soyota Street) supported smart development but opposed introducing duplexes and cottage courts in the Downtown Residential district, preferring single-family homes. Tom Coffey (365 Chale Ridge) questioned why council would give up final approval authority on development projects and expressed concern about the impact on historic properties. - Other: Jenny McAdams (Delaware Public Health) gave updates on the community health assessment, e-bike discussions, and mosquito season. During Resolution 2026-42, a resident asked about future use of the barn timbers and pest treatment storage. Another resident requested a sign at Bennett Farm to explain the barn dismantling. Discussion Items - Energy Aggregation Update (NOPEC): Ross McDonald, Deepa Vedavyas, and Genny Costanzo reported that 4,044 opt-out notices were mailed July 22. The opt-out period ends August 12. If residents take no action, they will be enrolled in the aggregation program at 9.99 cents/kWh (Sept 1 – Nov 30) then 10.49 cents/kWh through May 2027. An information session is scheduled for August 5 at 6 PM. Residents may opt out at any time with no penalty. Council expressed appreciation for the smooth rollout. - Village Green Master Plan Update (Pizzuti Solutions): Project manager Sophia Lonza presented phase two engagement results. Two conceptual plans (Market Square and Village Square) were shared at open houses with 220 attendees collecting 381 comments. Key themes: desire for green space, performance space, splash pad/water feature, multi-generational amenities, traffic mitigation, and preserving small-town character. Feedback led to plans for additional community engagement in fall 2026 and a final presentation to council in December 2026. Council members noted coordination with the Bennett Park design and stressed that the plan remains a concept, not a final development. - Resolution 2026-39 (Village Green Phase II Extension): City Manager Andy explained the resolution extends the professional services agreement with Pizzuti Solutions through December 31, 2026, at no additional cost. The extension allows for further public engagement and concept refinement before phase three (financial analysis). Council members expressed support, noting the process ensures community input and that no development will occur without further approvals. - Resolution 2026-40 (Rock Salt Bid): Staff reported a 50% increase in salt costs to $105.70/ton due to supply chain issues, with a maximum contract of $157,500 for 1,500 tons. The city has 500 tons in stockpile. The bid was awarded to SWOP4G. New equipment and training aim to improve salt efficiency. - Resolution 2026-41 (Security Camera System): The city will replace and expand its camera system from 35 to 43 locations using Proline Technology Inc. at a cost of $97,657 for cameras only (door locks deferred). The system includes a five-year license per camera, ownership of equipment, and cloud-based storage. Council noted the need to address vandalism in parks. - Resolution 2026-42 (Barn Dismantle & Preservation): The city authorized Frontier Timber Framing LLC to dismantle, catalog, store, and weather-protect the large barn at Bennett Farm (2409 State Route 750 W) for $87,441. Timbers will be stored on-site under a tarp for up to three years, with the intent to reassemble the barn as part of a future event center on the property. Council members expressed excitement about preserving community history and improving communication about the project. - Ordinance 2026-14 (Zoning Code Rewrite): After a second reading and public comment, council debated two amendments. The first amended Section 1104.02 to require conditional use review for two-unit dwellings (duplexes) and cottage courts in the Downtown Residential district (passed 7-0). The second amendment removed all references to cannabis dispensaries, uses, and operations from the code (passed 5-2, Ramsey and Carlson opposed). The full ordinance as amended was then adopted 6-1 (Carlson opposed). The code will take effect 30 days from adoption. - Ordinance 2026-15 (Fee Schedule Amendment): Accompanying the zoning code rewrite, the fee schedule was updated to include new permit types. Adopted unanimously (7-0) after a second reading. - Ordinance 2026-16 (Home & Steitz Intersection Improvements): First reading with emergency clause. The ordinance authorizes a contract with Jess Howard Electric Company for $81,674 to install pedestrian signal heads, crosswalks, and ramp connections at the dangerous intersection (joint jurisdiction with Delaware County). Council suspended the rules and adopted the ordinance unanimously (7-0) to expedite work before school starts in 16 days. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2026-39 (Village Green Phase II Extension): Adopted (voice vote, all in favor). No additional cost. - Resolution 2026-40 (Rock Salt): Adopted (voice vote, all in favor). - Resolution 2026-41 (Security Cameras): Adopted (voice vote, all in favor). - Resolution 2026-42 (Barn Dismantle): Adopted (voice vote, all in favor). - Ordinance 2026-14 (Zoning Code Rewrite): First amendment (conditional use for duplexes/cottage courts) passed 7-0. Second amendment (remove cannabis references) passed 5-2. Final ordinance as amended adopted 6-1 (Carlson no). - Ordinance 2026-15 (Fee Schedule): Adopted 7-0. - Ordinance 2026-16 (Intersection Improvements): Suspension of rules and adoption passed 7-0 (emergency). Committee Reports - Development Committee: Next meeting September 1, 2026 at 6:30 PM; discussed Veterans Memorial proposals. - Finance Committee: Next meeting August 11, 2026 at 6:30 PM (CIP review). - Operations Committee: Next meeting August 18, 2026 at 6:30 PM. - Planning & Zoning Commission: Next meeting August 12, 2026 at 6:30 PM. - Powell Development Corporation: Next meeting August 25, 2026 at 12:00 PM (followed by a retreat). - Tree Board: Next meeting August 12, 2026 at 2:00 PM; focus on low-hanging trees interfering with snow plows. City Manager's Report - Staff is preparing for Powell Fest 2027. A supplemental appropriation will be requested to lock in entertainment contracts early due to budget cycle timing. - Ribbon cutting for a new business was noted as a success. Executive Session Council entered executive session at the end of the meeting under ORC 121.22(G)(2) (property purchase), (G)(3) (attorney conference on imminent litigation), and (G)(8) (economic development assistance). No action was taken.

The Powell Development Committee met on August 4, 2026, to discuss a proposal to relocate the Veterans Memorial from its current location in Village Green to a new plaza along the Soyota Street extension, as part of a larger downtown corridor improvement plan. The meeting included a presentation from staff, committee questions, and public comment. No votes were taken; the item was presented for feedback and discussion. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the Development Committee meeting held on June 2, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - John Benninghoff (Powell Veterans Committee, former councilman) expressed full support for the relocation, stating it would be more accessible and create a magnet for the historic cemetery. He noted the cemetery contains representatives from every combat since the Revolutionary War and emphasized the city's tree city status. - Wes (Vietnam veteran, 5005 Park Drive) stated he prefers the current location because it is peaceful and offers space for gathering without being between a parking lot and a road. He questioned whether relocation was required; staff clarified it is a concept, not a requirement. - Janina Ashton (9 Walls Court) questioned why a fourth alternative of leaving the memorial in place was not considered and asked if relocation is a step toward redeveloping the green space. - Ryan Holdren (Marine Corps veteran, Veterans Committee member) supported relocation, noting that the Memorial Day ceremony draws fewer than 30 people despite thousands attending the parade. He argued a more central location would increase attendance and participation. - Brooke Mori (415 Retreat Lane West) suggested incorporating features to captivate younger audiences, not just the memorial itself. - Tracy Mayberry (446 Briar Bend Boulevard) opposed relocation, stating the current site is a peaceful, private place for remembrance, while the proposed location is intentionally busy with shops and restaurants and would be noisy despite buffers. - Caitlin Berkeley (Air Force veteran, Veterans Committee member) supported the move, emphasizing that the current location is out of sight and out of mind, and the new design would expose more people to the memorial while still offering a respectful space. - Mayor Heather Carr supported the relocation, noting that aging veterans struggle to access the current site on the brick pathway, while the new plaza would allow easier drop-off and participation in ceremonies. Discussion Items - Presentation on Proposed Veterans Memorial Plaza: Staff members Logan Stang and Jeff presented a concept for relocating the Veterans Memorial to a plaza along the Soyota Street extension, integrating it with a planned DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) Revolutionary War memorial and improvements to the adjacent cemetery. Three initial concepts were studied, and a refined plan was shown with renderings. Key features include two plaza spaces (one for the DAR memorial and one for the Veterans Memorial), preserved parking, landscaping, and pedestrian connections. The presentation emphasized that the design is flexible and further detailed design work would follow. - Committee Feedback: Council members raised several points: - A concern that lining up the memorial slabs in a row (as shown) might lose the immersive feeling of the current circular arrangement. - Questions about financial costs for different design options, but no detailed estimates were available. - A caution about low signage potentially becoming a grind rail for skateboards. - Positive feedback on landscaping and opportunities for features like storybook walks or historical plaques. - Interest in balancing two distinct areas (military present vs. past) and ensuring safety from street noise. - Suggestions to include flags for all military branches, lighting, and space for future additions like Space Force and Cyber Force. - A reminder that memorial bricks and all existing elements must be incorporated. - A note that trees will grow and may over time obscure the memorial. - Funding Sources: Staff mentioned two potential funding sources: a Department of Commerce grant for gateway features, and a PAL Veterans Foundation fund through the Delaware Community Foundation. Additionally, the Veterans Services Commission has approximately $90,000 available for municipal cemetery improvements, which could be leveraged due to the DAR project proximity. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions or votes were taken. The proposal remains a concept for further refinement. - Staff will continue to gather feedback and develop more detailed designs, including lighting, landscaping, and cost estimates. - The next steps will involve coordination with the Soyota Street extension construction timeline and exploration of additional grant opportunities.

The Powell City Council met on August 4, 2026, at 10:30 AM for a public hearing and discussion of a proposed municipal electric aggregation program. Ross McDonald, a representative of the Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council (NOPEC), presented the program, which Powell voters had previously authorized the city to create. City staff selected NOPEC through a competitive request-for-proposals (RFP) process, and the city manager confirmed that the two statutorily required public hearings had been satisfied. The agreement was before council for consideration that evening, with first electric supply under the program scheduled for August 28, 2026. Discussion Items - NOPEC Program Overview: Ross McDonald described NOPEC as a nonprofit governmental entity with 25 years of experience aggregating electric and natural gas supply on behalf of approximately 250 Ohio communities, serving millions of residents. He emphasized that NOPEC is not beholden to shareholders and charges no termination fees or monthly membership fees. - Proposed Rate and Structure: The program would launch at 9.99 cents per kilowatt-hour, which the city sought to secure ahead of anticipated increases in the standard utility rate this fall. The standard program includes 25% renewable electricity by default, with an optional 100% green product. - Opt-Out Process: Eligible households would receive notices during a three-week opt-out period, with an additional community meeting planned for the first week of August. McDonald stressed that residents may opt out at any time, not just during the formal window, and reported an 85% participation rate in a comparable community (Mansfield). - RFP Selection Process: City staff explained that proposals were evaluated using a weighted scoring matrix with multiple raters; NOPEC was the "clear favorite" due to its public-entity structure, audited annual financials, deep resources, and energy market expertise. - Consumer Protections: McDonald highlighted NOPEC's "Do Not Knock" program, adopted by roughly 30 member communities, which allows residents to block door-to-door energy solicitors. He cautioned about predatory brokers who mislead residents into high-cost contracts, citing an example in which a person received a $700 bill after unwittingly switching suppliers. - Economic Development and Energy Efficiency: NOPEC subsidizes 60–100% of energy audit costs for small businesses pursuing PACE loans and offers loans at interest rates below 5%. Energy suppliers selected through NOPEC are required to line-item fund energy efficiency programs. - Solar and Resilience: McDonald expressed support for solar paneling and battery storage as tools for disaster recovery and continuity of operations, drawing on a conversation with a retired Springfield firefighter. - Timeline Discrepancy: McDonald stated that implementation planning meetings with the city would begin between July 1 and 22. Since this meeting took place August 4, that timeline is inconsistent with the August 28 program start date and may reflect a transcription error. Key Outcomes - The council confirmed that the two statutorily required public hearings for the aggregation program had been satisfied. - No vote on the NOPEC agreement was recorded in the transcript; the item was scheduled for council consideration that evening. - If approved, NOPEC would begin public outreach and coordination with the city, including a community meeting during the opt-out period, with the first electric supply delivered through the program on August 28, 2026.

The Powell Tree Board convened on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers. Members present: Carlson, Lane Sauston, Jonathan Davis, Gooch, and Elliot Schaeffer. The board approved previous meeting minutes and discussed two main agenda items: an Eagle Scout pollinator garden proposal and the board's 2026 priorities, including Tree City USA requirements, street tree management, and future goals. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Motioned and seconded, the board unanimously approved the minutes from the May 26, 2026 and June 29, 2026 meetings. Discussion Items - Pollinator Garden Eagle Scout Project Proposal – Shaurya Lunkad, a Life Scout from Troop 42A in Powell (rising junior at Liberty High School), presented a proposal to install a pollinator garden with native flowers and grasses at a city park. The project would require approximately 15 volunteers, with a total budget of $890.50 funded through a GoFundMe campaign. Key materials include native seeds ($235), stepping stones ($40), border stones ($70), mulch ($24), rabbit covers ($50-$225), and supplies ($105). The timeline is late August to mid-September 2026. Board members expressed strong support, praising the initiative and presentation. They discussed potential sites (Library Park, Murphy Park, Seldom Seen Park) and suggested connecting with the Central Ohio Pollinator Pathway Group for plant donations. The city offered to partner on watering and long-term maintenance. A marker or sign for the project was also discussed. - 2026 Tree Board Priorities – Councilman Andy outlined the board's primary responsibility: maintaining Tree City USA certification through four requirements (tree board, tree care ordinance, $2/capita budget, Arbor Day observance). The board then brainstormed additional focus areas: - Memorial Tree Policy: Improving the process for memorial tree requests (2-4 per year) and website visibility. - Street Tree Management: Issues with low-hanging branches affecting plows, sidewalks, and street signs. Education for HOAs and residents on pruning responsibilities was emphasized. Staff noted that many subdivisions (e.g., Golf Village) have unpruned trees due to homeowner responsibility, and a contract for catch-up pruning may be needed. - Tree Removal and Replacement: Staff currently only remove public right-of-way trees (no stump grinding, reseeding, or replanting). The board discussed developing a one-to-one replacement policy and incentivizing removal of invasive species like Callery pear trees. - Invasive Species: A $5,000 invasive species line item exists; board suggested researching peer cities' incentive amounts ($100-$150) and reporting back. - Education: Proposals to add tree care information to the city website, host quarterly public programs, and have board members attend HOA meetings to discuss tree maintenance. - Bennett Farm Tree Protection: Concerns raised about protecting large trees (especially a large red oak) during construction. The board requested an ISA-certified arborist evaluation of key trees, noting that the final path design may impact the red oak. Staff agreed to follow up with the city engineer. - Other Business: The board scheduled its next meeting for Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Golf Village, including a site visit to observe tree clearance and plow issues. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously. - Eagle Scout pollinator garden project accepted in concept; board will work with Shaurya on site selection, connect him with the Pollinator Pathway Group, and coordinate planting and maintenance. - Board directed staff to compile data on other communities' invasive tree removal incentives and report back. - Staff to consult with city engineer about obtaining an ISA arborist evaluation for Bennett Farm trees. - Street tree policy and education efforts to be developed; next meeting will include a site visit and further discussion of priorities. - Next meeting confirmed: August 12, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Golf Village.

The Powell City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 47 Hall Street, Powell, Ohio. Business included a bridge type presentation for the Scioto Street Extension, routine consent items, three resolutions covering veterans recognition, parks master plans, and playground equipment, and a detailed discussion of the rewrite of the city's planning and zoning code. Bridge Presentation: Scioto Street Extension Bridge Type Analysis - City Engineer Aaron Stanford, P.E., presented the bridge type study, joined by Mike Murray, P.E., and Sage Flannagan, P.E., of American Structurepoint, Inc., the design consultant. - The study evaluates and compares three bridge design alternatives (A, B, and C) for the bridge that will be part of phase two of the Scioto Street Extension, from Liberty Street to the western edge of the bridge. - Staff presented the advantages and disadvantages of each alternative; at least one alternative would require a longer construction time than the other two. - In response to council questions about whether costs included labor and installation, staff clarified that the analysis was specific to the bridge type for this project. - Staff noted that a council majority choosing to deviate to alternative A or C would affect limited city resources. No vote was taken; the item was for discussion and direction. Consent Calendar - The council approved the minutes of the June 16, 2026, regular council meeting. - The consent agenda, containing the monthly reports from the police, finance, economic development, human resources, public service, engineering, planning and zoning, building, and community engagement departments, was approved in one motion. No member pulled a report for separate discussion. Resolution 26-34: "Unmarked but Unforgotten" VSC Agreement - The resolution adopts an agreement connected to the "Unmarked but Unforgotten" veterans recognition program and the public plazas of the Scioto Street Extension adjacent to Powell Cemetery. - A public commenter expressed support and referenced the city's previously authorized funding of up to $125,000, stating that "all veterans need to be recognized while they're alive and while they're passed." - The resolution was adopted. Resolution 26-35: Parks and Recreation Master Plan and Bennett Farm Master Plan - The resolution adopts the POW Parks and Recreation Master Plan and the Bennett Farm Master Plan and authorizes the city manager to take actions necessary for implementation. - Discussion emphasized that the plan retains flexibility; specific themes and items, such as projects at Selden City Park, will come back before council through future planning exercises. - The resolution was adopted. Resolution 26-36: Adventure Park Playground Equipment Purchase - The resolution authorizes the city manager to purchase playground equipment for the Adventure Park playground replacement project from GameTime through the Omni Partners cooperative purchasing agreement. - Councilman Herman, who was absent, and the speaking council member had both expressed interest in fixing the city's aging playground equipment faster and completing more sites per year. - The speaking council member worked with finance to add approximately $15,000 for two additional connections to park features, and stated that the city "never has to choose between affordable and including every child again," expressing support for the enhanced design. - Phasing discussion noted the 2026 work would add a safe passage path to two areas, with the 2027 phase extending the blue surfacing under all of the swing bays. - The purchase is included in the 2026 capital budget. The resolution was approved. Ordinance 2026-14: New Planning and Zoning Code - The ordinance repeals the current Part 11 of the codified ordinances and adopts a new planning and zoning code, described by staff as the result of about two years of work supported by multiple city departments. - The rewrite consolidates regulations so users do not need to search through 10 to 15 sections, establishes 10 zoning districts, and uses tables in which "P" means permitted by right and "C" means conditional use requiring additional public review. Use-specific standards are included. - New permitting software and a web portal will provide a one-stop shop for planning, building, and engineering information, including permit types, approval steps, and timelines. - Council involvement shifts to an earlier point in the development process: some approval steps would be removed from council, while council would retain authority over key criteria. A council member described this as an earlier "bite of the apple." - Discussion also addressed public street construction standards, with the possibility of working with Liberty Township Fire on access flexibility when the city engineer is satisfied, and an extension to bridge the period until the new zoning code takes effect, under which certain uses would be prohibited city-wide. - The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval at its July 15, 2026, meeting, and staff recommended city council action at the August 4 meeting. A related resolution would come after adoption of the zoning code but before its effective date, with final approval timed for the first September meeting to align with the effective date. - A council member voiced support for the proposed changes, which had been presented to the finance committee, and described an example in which council members had questioned an architect's judgment to illustrate the need for a streamlined process. Resources for Next Year's Appropriations - Finance staff member Samantha presented the annual estimate of resources anticipated to support next year's appropriations; no major concerns were raised. - The version before council changed slightly from the finance committee's version due to debt discussions and the timing of this year's and next year's debt issuance. The finance committee had reviewed the matter in detail in May and supported the legislation. Upcoming Committee Meetings - Tree Board: July 29, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. - Development Committee: August 4, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. - Finance Committee: August 11, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. - Planning and Zoning Commission: August 12, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. - Operations Committee: August 18, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. - Powell Development Corporation: August 25, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar, including the June 16, 2026, minutes and all monthly departmental reports, was approved. - Resolutions 26-34, 26-35, and 26-36 were adopted. - Ordinance 2026-14 was discussed in depth, with a roll-call vote called at the close of the meeting. Individual vote tallies were not included in the transcript provided. - No member of the public spoke during the non-agenda citizen participation period.

The Powell Operations Committee met on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers to continue discussions on regulating massage establishments. The meeting featured presentations from Police Chief Ron Sallows, Detective Sergeant Ryan Pentz, and Investigator Aaron Dennis of the Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission, focusing on human trafficking risks and potential municipal legislation. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from the June 16, 2026 Operations Committee meeting was moved and passed unanimously without revisions. Discussion Items - Chief Sallows introduced the topic, emphasizing that most massage businesses are legitimate but some are exploited for illegal activities. He stressed the need for careful balance to protect legitimate businesses and respect individual rights. - Sergeant Pentz detailed two investigations in Powell since 2015: the first took 1.5 years, over 1,000 man-hours, resulted in two convictions (10 years each) and rescued 7 female victims. In both cases, 99% of clients were male, most clients lived outside Powell, and no victims or convicted individuals held massage licenses. He noted current businesses advertise deep tissue/medical massage without known licenses, and the detective bureau is overwhelmed. - Investigator Dennis provided statewide context: over 300 illicit massage businesses in Ohio, 60-65 within the I-270 loop, and over 10,000 in the U.S. He explained that a "relaxation massage" loophole allows unlicensed operations, and that House Bill 744, sponsored by Rep. Gene Smith, would change licensing but is stalled. He cited Pickerington's ordinance as a deterrent—a parlor that avoided Pickerington due to licensure requirements. He noted illicit parlors earn $250,000–$500,000 annually and are often linked to transnational organized crime. - Committee members asked about the mechanics of licensure, grandfathering existing businesses, and coordination with townships. Chief Sallows confirmed 13 massage businesses operate within Powell and 5 in adjacent Liberty Township, with no knowledge of their licensing status. - The committee discussed using existing ordinances (e.g., Strongsville, Fairborn, Delaware, Pickerington) as a basis and the need to avoid unintended consequences for legitimate businesses. Key Outcomes - The committee agreed to have staff work with legal counsel to develop a template ordinance for further consideration at a future meeting, using prior city legislation and examples from other municipalities as a starting point. - Sergeant Pentz noted the current investigation has concluded with an indictment, and the committee expressed interest in completing a proposal by the end of the year. - No formal vote was taken on any ordinance; only the minutes approval was voted on.

On July 15, 2026, the Powell Planning & Zoning Commission held a special meeting at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers, 47 Hall Street, Powell, OH. The sole substantive agenda item was Case 2025-12ADM, an administrative review and recommendation to City Council for a comprehensive update of the City of Powell Zoning Code (Chapter 11). The update, two years in development, was presented by staff with support from consultant Zone Co. The Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval to City Council, with a first reading scheduled for July 21, 2026, second reading on August 4, 2026, and an effective date of September 4, 2026. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the June 11, 2026, meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No visitors spoke during the Hearing of Visitors for items not on the agenda. Discussion Items - Comprehensive Zoning Code Update (Case 2025-12ADM): Staff presented a detailed overview of the proposed code, emphasizing its origins in the 2016 Comprehensive Plan, a 2024 consultant assessment, and extensive community engagement including a visual preference survey at PALFest and an online survey. The new code is organized into 4 titles and 17 chapters, covering: zoning districts (10 total, including a new historic overlay and civic/institutional district), use tables, general development standards (parking, landscaping, sign regulations), improvement standards, subdivision procedures, and approval processes. Key features include: right-sized parking requirements (e.g., one space per residential unit), increased building height (up to 40 feet in commercial/historic districts), clearer deviation criteria, and a commitment to periodic updates every two years. Nonconforming structures may continue as-is; only new additions must comply. The code is designed to be more user-friendly and flexible, reducing reliance on custom planned districts. - Commission Q&A: Commissioners asked about council reading dates (July 21 and August 4), selection of Zone Co. (RFP process), treatment of existing planned districts (e.g., Golf Village and OSU), nonconforming additions (only addition must conform), building height adjustments (Liberty Green needed one extra foot), parking reductions, temporary signage restrictions (not allowed in downtown but limited permits for grand openings), and how the code empowers Commission review (clarifies criteria). Staff confirmed a lessons-learned review every two years and that new permitting software will launch September 1, 2026. Key Outcomes - Vote: A motion to recommend approval of the comprehensive zoning code update to City Council passed unanimously on a roll call vote: Greg Spires (yes), David Lester (yes), John Simpson (yes). Members absent: Servine and Blackford. - Next Steps: The recommendation will be presented to City Council for a first reading on July 21, 2026, and a second reading on August 4, 2026, with adoption and an effective date of September 4, 2026. The updated Downtown Design Guidelines and new permitting software are expected to align with this timeline.