Public Meetings - Powell, Ohio

The Powell City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 7:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a presentation on the Village Green Master Plan update, approval of the consent agenda, adoption of a resolution and an ordinance, committee reports, and a discussion on a potential partnership with the Delaware County Foundation. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the minutes from the City Council meeting held on March 3, 2026. - Consent Agenda: Approved the consent agenda, which included monthly reports from Human Resources, Economic Development, Planning and Zoning, Community Engagement, Engineering, Police, Finance, and Public Service, as well as Resolution 2026-20 appointing board members to the Powell Development Corporation and specifying their terms. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during citizen participation or on any agenda items. Discussion Items - Village Green Master Plan Update: Sophia Lanza from Pizzuti Solutions presented an update on Phase 2 of the Village Green Master Plan. The 12-month engagement is expected to conclude in September or October 2026. Phase 2 focuses on project visioning, land planning, and infrastructure assessment. Community engagement included a public workshop in October 2025 where participants provided feedback on parking, traffic, development, and green space. Three open house sessions are planned for April into May 2026 at various times and locations to maximize participation. Two concept plans will be presented for feedback. Collaboration with adjacent property owners (Dan McClure, Jim Faliaris, and Dr. Old) is ongoing. City Manager noted that internal discussions on financial strategies and resource allocation have begun, acknowledging that resources will become scarce with competing projects. - Resolution 2026-21 – Tax Incentive Review Council (TIRC) Recommendations: City Manager Andy presented the resolution accepting the TIRC’s recommendations on the status of the 2025 Community Reinvestment Area, Enterprise Zone, and Tax Increment Financing (TIF) programs. The TIRC, composed of city, school, and county officials, reviewed three TIF districts (downtown, Solomon Commercial, and seldom scene) and abatement programs. The TIRC unanimously recommended accepting all incentive programs and continuing them into the future. Council adopted the resolution. - Ordinance 2026-05 – Supplemental Appropriations: City Manager Andy presented the ordinance modifying appropriations for calendar year 2026 and declaring an emergency. The largest adjustment was a $102,000 general fund transfer to the capital fund based on municipal income tax collections, required by the city’s 25% threshold policy. Other adjustments included $56,000 for facility cameras and funds for street maintenance design fees. The ordinance was adopted after suspending the rules. - Committee Reports: - Development Committee: No report. - Finance Committee: Met last week; discussed the appropriation and began forecasting revenue, particularly considering the impact of OSU’s upcoming activities. - Operations Committee: Met that evening; discussed new requirements from the organization that grants Tree City status and will consider ordinance revisions. - Planning & Zoning Commission: Report given as part of the City Manager’s report. - City Manager’s Report: - Delaware County Foundation Partnership: Andy reported on a meeting with Mr. Baker of the Delaware County Foundation. The city is exploring a partnership to establish a fund to attract donations for projects such as the Veterans Memorial, Cemetery Fund, and Historical Society. The foundation would manage investments and offer a donor drop-down menu. Advantages include separating the city from direct donations and leveraging seed money. Council discussed fees (approximately 2% of assets or a flat fee) and the possibility of creating a separate 501(c)(3) in the future. The next step is to formalize the partnership. - Corner of Grace and 750 Park: Construction has begun on a neighborhood park at that intersection. Boulders and stormwater fencing are in place. The park will feature downlighting and uplighting and is expected to be complete by the end of April 2026, ready for Memorial Day. - Carriage Farms Intersection: Staff met with Delaware County Engineers regarding the intersection at Liberty Road. An existing design for a roundabout has been shared. The city, county, and township would partner on a grant-funded project similar to the Presidential and Sawmill Road roundabout. Further updates will be provided. - Home and Stitts Road: Staff is working with the county engineer on a right-of-way permit application for full design improvements. - Other Council Matters: - Council member recognized three Ohio airmen lost in an aircraft wreck in Iraq: Seth Koval, Curtis Engst, and Tyler Simmons, who worked at Rickenbacker. Their service and sacrifice were acknowledged. - Council member noted attendance at the district advisory commission to appoint a board of health member; four resumes have been reviewed. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Resolution 2026-21 adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 2026-05 adopted unanimously after suspending the rules (roll call: all ayes). - Motion to enter executive session approved under Ohio Revised Code Sections 121.22(G)(2) (property purchase), (G)(3) (conference with attorney concerning imminent court action), and (G)(8) (confidential economic development information). Roll call: all ayes.

The Powell Operations Committee met on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers, 47 Hall Street, Powell, OH 43065. Committee members present were Lee Carlson, Carlos Crawford, and Matthew Harvey. Amy Gestosani was absent after notifying the committee she could not attend. The meeting focused on two primary items: the Tree City USA program requirements and a review of storm damage from the prior weekend. Oath of Office - Matthew Harvey was sworn in as an Operations Committee member, taking the oath to support the Constitutions of the United States and the State of Ohio and to faithfully discharge the duties of the office. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the Operations Committee meeting held on February 17, 2026, were approved with no comments or changes. A roll-call vote was requested; the minutes were approved. Discussion Items - Tree City USA Requirements: Staff presented Powell's standing in the Tree City USA program, which the city has held for over 27 years. Applications open September 1 and close November 1. Of the four program standards, the city currently meets two (per-capita tree care spending and Arbor Day observance) and is noncompliant on two: the absence of a dedicated tree board and the lack of a public tree care ordinance. The existing Arbor Advisory Subcommittee (under the Parks and Rec board) has been inactive; staff recommended terminating it and creating a standalone tree board of at least five or six members. The board would advise on tree planting, maintenance, removal, invasive species, and urban forestry initiatives. Staff also noted the board would need to meet at least six times per calendar year, with a possible narrow virtual-meeting exception to facilitate attendance. A member proposed that the tree board's meetings could be combined with other committee meetings, and one committee member offered to help solicit community specialists for the board. The committee discussed a target timeline: prepare legislation for the next council meeting, repeal the old subcommittee by ordinance, create the new board by resolution, and use the summer months to prepare for the following budget cycle. - Storm Damage Review: Following the Tree City discussion, the committee addressed storm and wind damage from the prior weekend. Staff reported the largest issue was just outside city jurisdiction (a roof loss at the YMCA), with significant trees down along the trail from City Hall to Liberty, including one large tree that fell next to a house. No injuries occurred, and staff (including Lauren and Aaron, with Charles out of town) provided steady feedback throughout the event. One committee member noted the city has historically trimmed trees and donated the material for animal feed, and suggested a new park with significant invasive species could be an early focus for the tree board. Key Outcomes - The Operations Committee directed staff to begin drafting legislation to terminate the existing Arbor Advisory Subcommittee (by ordinance) and create a standalone tree board (by resolution), with the goal of bringing the legislation to the next council meeting. - The committee supported moving forward with the tree board creation and soliciting community input on board membership, with a timeline that allows for preparation before the following budget cycle. - The committee acknowledged the city's strong standing in the Tree City USA program and viewed the restructuring as a compliance matter to maintain good standing for the coming year.

The Powell Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council held a joint meeting on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, in Council Chambers at 47 Hall Street, Powell, Ohio. The agenda included the oath of office for three new commission members and an overview of ongoing efforts to update the zoning code (Case 2025-12ADM), with discussion focused on building heights, zoning district classifications, and lot coverage rules. No meeting minutes were available; this summary draws from the agenda and the meeting transcript. The agenda lists the meeting start time as 6:30 PM, while the transcript metadata records a timestamp of 12:45 UTC. Oath of Office - Per the agenda, oaths of office were administered to new Planning & Zoning Commission members Greg Spires, Mitchell Blackford, and Shaun Greer. This item is not reflected in the available transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - The agenda included a hearing of visitors for items not on the agenda. The chair noted hearing no other comments, indicating the public comment period had concluded without further testimony from visitors. Discussion Items - Zoning Code Update (Case 2025-12ADM): Planning staff, led by Claudia, presented the ongoing efforts to update the zoning code. - Downtown mixed-use building height (35 to 40 feet): Staff explained that increasing the downtown mixed-use height from 35 to 40 feet supports a three-story scale of development. Ground-floor commercial uses typically need higher floor-to-ceiling heights, and residential or office uses above require more than 7- or 8-foot ceilings. The change also removes a deviation request that has recurred with several developments. A four-story building would still require a height deviation and additional conversation about its impact and whether it fits the community's character. - Industrial district height (45 feet): The proposed 45-foot industrial height limit is intended to accommodate "clean" industrial uses such as research and development and health-science businesses. Staff stated the flexibility supports two-story buildings or large single-story bay areas and helps attract the types of businesses the city wants, particularly as it evaluates growth opportunities such as potential annexations. - Downtown Residential District boundaries: Staff clarified that Harper's Point and Encore Park would not be classified as Downtown Residential; they would be designated mixed residential. Downtown Residential is focused on the northwest quadrant of downtown, where original village-era property lines and sites remain. - Lot coverage standards: Staff confirmed that the 50% lot coverage standard applies only to the building footprint, not hardscape such as driveways. Staff noted they want feedback from the commission, council, and the public to ensure the regulations encourage the right development patterns. Key Outcomes - No formal motions or votes were captured in the available transcript; the session functioned as a discussion and information-sharing meeting. - The chair and members thanked Claudia for the presentation. - The next meeting is scheduled for April 8, 2026; an April 11 date mentioned during the meeting was corrected to April 8.

The Powell Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council met jointly on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers, 47 Hall Street, Powell, Ohio. The meeting included the swearing-in of three new Planning & Zoning Commission members and a consultant-led overview of Case 2025-12ADM, the ongoing effort to update the city's zoning code. Councilmember John Simpson was not present at roll call. Oath of Office - Greg Spires, Mitchell Blackford, and Shaun Greer were sworn in as new members of the Planning & Zoning Commission, which serves as an advisory board to City Council on zoning map amendments, preliminary and final development plans, and platting of property. Discussion Items Zoning Code Update (Case 2025-12ADM) - The consultant stated the current zoning code was written 40 years ago, and Powell is a very different place today. The city currently relies heavily on planned unit developments, variances, and other relief because the code is not calibrated to the development Powell now receives. The consultant characterized this as an unpredictable, one-off, patchwork approach and said the new code should be clear, consistent, user-friendly, and defensible. - The rewrite aims to bake in regulations that reflect desired community outcomes so projects do not require a PUD process each time. Staff and the Planning Commission would still review and vet development to ensure the code does not create bigger challenges or issues. - Proposed districts include two single-family residential districts and two additional residential districts providing a greater diversity of housing options. A downtown-focused district would allow flexibility in housing types without the volume of a larger mixed-residential district, preserving the feel and character of downtown Powell. - The planned industrial district would be removed and replaced with clear rules, including for planned residential-to-residential district conversions. Parking requirements are being right-sized so businesses in some areas can use public lots to meet parking obligations rather than being forced to provide unused on-site spaces. - Future iterations will include more graphics showing contextual development examples, new downtown design guidelines, community toolkits, and subdivision regulations governing lot shape and public roadway access. Questions and Concerns - A council member new to the dais asked whether the city plans to proactively communicate with property owners about how the new code could affect their property, noting that in their own experience an overlay was added to an area without broad awareness. The consultant responded that a website with interactive maps and targeted guides will be part of outreach. - A Planning Commissioner expressed concern that their fence could not be rebuilt to its current height under the proposed code. The response indicated repair in small portions would be allowed to bring it into compliance. - A commissioner asked how difficult it would be to convert a property to mixed use if a business closes; the answer was that a rezoning would require Planning Commission and City Council review and approval. - Staff confirmed that adopting the new code would set an entirely new zoning map for the city; property owners could later petition to rezone. Lawful nonconforming uses would be grandfathered and could continue for another 20 years even if no longer permitted in the district. - Asked about deed restrictions, the city stated it has no authority over private deed restrictions, so the new code would not override them. Key Outcomes - The zoning code update remains on track: a detailed, formatted draft code is being prepared for public feedback in May or June 2026, with continued Planning Commission and Council review through the summer and adoption consideration in the fall of 2026. - The next phase of the public engagement will include complete tables (e.g., parking calculations) and context graphics showing how the regulations would translate to actual development.

The Powell Finance Committee met on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 47 Hall Street, Powell, OH. The committee reviewed the December 2025, January 2026, and February 2026 financial reports, approved Q1 2026 supplemental appropriations for referral to City Council, discussed revenue forecasting methods and the 2026/2027 budgeting calendar, and heard an update on a potential community foundation fund through the Delaware County Foundation. Most items were handled by consensus; no roll-call votes were required. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the Finance Committee meeting held November 10, 2025, were approved by consensus with no objections. Financial Reports - Staff reviewed the December 2025 and February 2026 monthly reports in detail. The January 2026 report was skipped in the interest of time since it covers only one month of the new year, but members were invited to raise questions on it. - Full-year 2025 results: Other revenue was $2.4 million, which was 162% above budget. Interest earnings were up 20% in 2025 compared with the prior year. Total operating expenditures were $11.9 million, or 80% of the budget, slightly higher than the prior year, indicating tighter budgeting. - The city ended 2025 with a positive change in cash flow of $398,048 — less than the 2024 change in cash flow. Total expenses across all categories were up 10% compared with year-to-date 2024. - Tax revenue receipts were 102.6% of budget. Since the 2022 income tax rate change, the city receives roughly a 2.8% annual increase in tax revenue. - February 2026 year-to-date: Tax revenue was 13.9% of the annual budget, below the 16.6% goal for two months of the year. At the same time in 2025, tax revenue was 15.5% of budget. - Personnel and operating expenses were each at approximately 14%–15% of budget — below budget but on track. Capital items were at 23.2% of budget, described as a little high, partly because vehicles were purchased three at a time, creating a heavier single-month expense. Total expenses were up about 2% compared with February 2025. - The planning department spent just under $25,000 for its design guidelines update. Monthly legal services were also noted. - Staff observed a decrease in revenue compared with year-to-date 2025 and will continue monitoring, including reaching out to Rita to identify patterns. A prior discussion about mailing postcards to remind residents to file was noted; that vendor does not do that for the city. - The city manages its own portfolio and works with a cash-management partner (referred to in the transcript as “CashFest”) to determine when to invest excess cash in higher-yielding securities versus keeping funds in liquid accounts. The city also monitors Star Ohio, where a large amount of money is invested. - A member asked about the significance of the total available funds line at the end of the report, referencing the $398,048 positive change in cash flow. Q1 2026 Supplemental Appropriations - Parks and Recreation part-time instructors: This is the first year the parks and recreation team will use a pool of part-time instructors rather than independent contractors. The original budget was approved for $3,000 instead of the needed 3,000 hours, so an adjustment was required. - Street sign data project: Funds were reappropriated for a project to gather data on all street and regulatory signs. The funds were not used in 2025 because the project did not start, and staff requested the reappropriation in 2026 to move the project forward. - The remaining items were described as relatively small. - The committee expressed no objections and agreed to place the supplemental appropriations before City Council for approval the following week. Revenue Forecasting Discussion - A member stated the city has never been able to do revenue forecasting with any sense of confidence and expressed interest in improving on the current method of taking the average percentage increase over the last five years and applying a ballpark figure. - The member noted OSU comes on board in August, and while significant revenue may not materialize this year, it would be helpful to know next year’s projections in advance. The member also wanted to better understand the sources of revenue and noted that large capital project costs will require careful planning. - Another member responded that the forecasting method would differ for every revenue category: income tax is the easier projection, but other categories require assumptions about new businesses coming online — and a crystal ball is ultimately needed. - One member observed that with studies now available, council and subcommittees face decisions about which projects to pursue — a challenge never faced before. The comment referenced additional housing, limited land availability, and the need to prioritize among initiatives. - A member commented on the emphasis on oncology and whether related salaries may be higher than anticipated when the original modeling occurred. - No formal action was taken. The revenue estimates are needed by summer, per the schedule discussed in the next item. Upcoming Schedule for Financial Reporting, Debt Planning, and Budgeting - The 2026 calendar lists all legislative items, with Finance Committee items in red and City Council items in blue, and shows the annual budgeting and legislative timeline. - Staff proposed moving the debt discussion to July because more concrete information and price estimates on the bridge type study for the Souda Street extension are expected in the May–June timeframe, which will impact the debt to be issued. The Bennett Farm project was also referenced as a factor; the city lacked sufficient information about the project when budgeting. - A member questioned why the city would finance a project when the money is already budgeted and available. Staff explained that the Bennett Farm decision was made without enough information at budget time. - The committee will not hold its regular meeting next month (April 2026) because it competes with the State of the City event. - No questions were raised on the schedule itself. Other Business: Delaware County Foundation Community Fund - Staff (Jeff and Heather) met with the Delaware County Foundation the day before or two days before the meeting. The Foundation’s representative, Chris Baker, recommended establishing a community foundation fund rather than separate funds for specific purposes such as parks and recreation or public art. - Under this structure, the city would be the owner of the fund within the Delaware County Foundation. Donations would be specifically allocated to the city’s pool. The Foundation provides a level of separation that may make residents more willing to give than donating directly to the city — as one member put it, residents may support public art or statues but not want to write a check directly to the city. - Examples of similar funds include a Brown Township building fund, a Brown Township Delaware County fund, and the City of Delaware community fund. Donors can search all funds through a dropdown menu on the Foundation’s website. - A member asked whether an advisory committee would assist the Foundation on the use-purposes side for each locality. The example was given of a community that submitted an application to use funds for its village square, with the Foundation releasing the funds to the city. - A member noted the city previously had no place to put donations and that one donation was directed to the Hart Foundation in the city’s name because no city account existed. The new community fund would provide a home for such gifts. - Members joked that the city “will never be as cool as the zoo” (where people can name baby animals), but one member said that after hearing the presentation, the reaction was: “why haven’t we done this before?” - The committee agreed to continue the conversation with the Delaware County Foundation and bring the item back for further discussion. Key Outcomes - Minutes of the November 10, 2025, Finance Committee meeting were approved by consensus. - Financial reports for December 2025, January 2026, and February 2026 were received and discussed; no formal vote was required. - Q1 2026 supplemental appropriations were approved by consensus for referral to City Council for action the week of March 16, 2026. - The April 2026 Finance Committee meeting will not be held due to the State of the City event. - The debt planning discussion was tentatively moved to July 2026, pending bridge type study estimates for the Souda Street extension. - No formal action was taken on revenue forecasting; discussion will continue, with revenue estimates needed by summer 2026. Note: The raw transcript for this meeting contained garbled or incomplete portions (including the “oncology” discussion and references to OSU coming on board in August), and the agenda listed no minutes for this meeting. The summary reflects the information that could be reliably extracted from the transcript.

The Powell City Council met on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 7:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a proclamation recognizing the Charter Review Commission, approval of routine items, adoption of a resolution extending the police chief's agreement, first readings of three ordinances, committee reports, and a city manager's report on economic development, parking, and infrastructure. Council then entered executive session. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the February 17, 2026 council meeting. - Approved consent agenda including a liquor license transfer for Mavi E&E Restaurant LLC at 230 West Olentangy Street and Resolution 2026-18 appointing board, committee, and commission members. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke. The Delaware Health District provided informational flyers available in meeting packets. Discussion Items - Proclamation: Mayor Heather Carr presented a proclamation recognizing the Charter Review Commission (members Andy Moore, Philip Whittaker, Councilmember Tyler Herman, Chairman Dan Swartout) for their service leading to charter amendments approved by voters in November 2025. - Resolution 2026-19: City Manager Ron (last name not provided) presented a resolution authorizing an addendum to the retirement and reappointment agreement with Chief of Police R. Sallows. The addendum extends the term through 2030 and adds a termination and severance provision. It was stated that the budget is not affected. Council adopted the resolution unanimously. - Ordinance 2026-02 (First Reading, Emergency): This ordinance granted final acceptance of public improvements for the CoHatch commercial development, including a public parking lot and on-street public spaces. Staff confirmed that conditions of the 2023 agreement were met. Council suspended rules and adopted the ordinance unanimously. - Ordinance 2026-03 (First Reading): Amendments to numerous traffic code sections to align with state law changes, enabling consistent enforcement. Council suspended rules and adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 2026-04 (First Reading): Amendments to general offenses code sections (Part Five) to align with state law. Council suspended rules and adopted unanimously. In discussion, Police Chief Mike (first name only) clarified that minor misdemeanors are cited under city code while higher offenses are cited under state code to avoid taxpayer burden for imprisonment costs. - Committee Reports: - Development Committee: Held a joint meeting with Operations on the Bennett Master Plan; next meeting April 7. - Finance Committee: First meeting of the year scheduled March 10. - Operations Committee: Next meeting March 17. - Planning & Zoning Commission: Joint meeting with council March 11 at 6:30 PM. - Powell Development Corporation: Met last week, passed new bylaws and code of regulations, changing board makeup and adding positions; next meeting March 24. - City Manager's Report: - Attended an Over-the-Rhine mobile workshop with Cincinnati Center City Development (3CDC), which has overseen $2 billion reinvestment since 2006. Tools discussed (TIF, abatements, parking) are relevant to downtown Powell redevelopment. - Joined Stronger Towns organization; shared article on parking minimums/maximums. - Parking analysis using Placer AI: Currently net short approximately 300 public spaces out of 900 downtown. With CoHatch parking, shortfall reduces to about 100 spaces on peak days (e.g., Black Friday). The issue is more about connectivity, wayfinding, and access than overall supply. - Property tax reform: Expressed concern that a ballot issue to eliminate property taxes may be on the fall ballot; noted need for counter-messaging. - CSX private railroad crossing on Liberty: Due to CSX corporate restructuring, financial incentives for the project are postponed. The crossing is dangerous (a delivery driver was struck previously). The city will recalibrate efforts, possibly working with the township and property owners. - Chamber of Commerce dinner: City received Business Partner of the Year award. - Upcoming: State of the Region on March 20 at 11 AM; city manager will coordinate transportation for council members. - Pedestrian crossing in front of the library is proceeding as planned (funded, scheduled first half of 2026). Key Outcomes - Minutes from February 17, 2026 approved unanimously. - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Resolution 2026-19 adopted unanimously (extending police chief's agreement). - Ordinance 2026-02 adopted as an emergency (final acceptance of CoHatch public improvements) unanimously. - Ordinance 2026-03 adopted unanimously (traffic code updates). - Ordinance 2026-04 adopted unanimously (general offenses updates). - Council voted unanimously to enter executive session under Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)(1) (personnel), (G)(2) (property purchase), (G)(3) (attorney conference on imminent court action), and (G)(8) (economic development confidential information).

The Powell Development Committee met jointly with the Powell Operations Committee on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, beginning at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers, 47 Hall Street, Powell, Ohio. The sole business item was the presentation and discussion of the Bennett Farm Master Plan by Andrew Wolverbeck of MKSK. The meeting was called to order with roll call; development committee members Carlos Crawford and Tyler Herman were present, joined by operations committee members, the mayor, vice mayor, and a former committee member. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee approved the minutes from the December 2, 2025 Development Committee meeting after all members confirmed they had reviewed them. Discussion Items - Bennett Farm Master Plan Presentation: Andrew Wolverbeck (MKSK) presented the draft master plan for the 32-acre Bennett Farm property, which the city previously purchased. A dedicated master planning effort was undertaken to address building form, future uses, and community benefit, with the goal of "getting it right" for the community. MKSK was available to answer questions alongside city planning staff. - Public Engagement: MKSK held two public workshops (April and fall), with the room full on multiple occasions. Community feedback strongly favored preserving the barn and addressing a lack of indoor programming space identified in the city's parks system master plan. - Barn Preservation: The barn's structure is sound and reusable, though the exterior and roof need repairs. MKSK highlighted adaptive-reuse examples in Central Ohio, including an Upper Arlington barn converted into flexible event and classroom space. The community's top priority was saving the barn. - Trails and Bridges: The plan proposes connecting to the existing Arbor Ridge access point and extending the multi-use path along Powell Road. The trail target width is 10–11 feet per the path master plan, reflecting expected heavy use. Approximately 2.5 miles of trails are planned, requiring two bridge crossings over Bartholomew Run. The path must also cross two additional parcels to reach Bartholomew; staff have met with one property owner and will walk the route next week to site the path and determine whether trail easements are needed. - Proposed Amenities: The concept includes a flexible lawn, play hill, dog park, adventurous play areas, and year-round site amenities. MKSK emphasized programming the space for everyday use, not just events. The barn could include a non-full-service kitchen suitable for events. - Phasing and Implementation: Phase one focuses on site access, trails, and infrastructure to create a foundation for future amenities. Cost estimates were presented by category, with bridges noted as a significant cost driver for areas south of the stream. The design process is estimated at 12–18 months before bid; next steps are schematic design and design development to refine cost estimates for capital budgeting and grant applications. - Operational Considerations: Committee members raised questions about annual upkeep costs (not yet estimated; MKSK offered to research comparable facilities), additional insurance coverage for new amenities, and whether the parks department has staff capacity. A committee member expressed full support for dog parks and adventurous play areas while noting insurance and operational risks. Staff confirmed internal discussions are underway for permanent fencing at the site within existing authorization based on community feedback. - Traffic and Site Conditions: One committee member asked whether traffic pattern changes around Bennett Parkway had been analyzed; this had not yet been discussed. Members also discussed site conditions, noting the creek can run dry seasonally but that "kids will go creeking in there all the time." A committee member highlighted the rarity of 32 acres of parkland located less than a mile from downtown Powell. - Funding and Approvals: A committee member noted that if the project moves forward, council appropriation would be needed this year. MKSK explained that reaching design development would allow more detailed cost estimates and grant investigations, and that having a plan in place is necessary to pursue grant funding. Key Outcomes - The Bennett Farm Master Plan was received by the joint committees; no formal vote was taken. - The committee discussion supported continued work toward schematic design and design development to produce more detailed cost estimates and inform grant-seeking. - Staff will walk the trail corridor, including the two off-map parcels, next week with the involved property owner to finalize the route and identify any needed trail easements. - No formal directive was issued regarding the barn, amenities, or funding, but the phased implementation approach was presented as the recommended path forward. - The meeting was adjourned by motion following the close of discussion; no date was set for the next joint discussion, though a future site visit to the wetlands was mentioned.

The Powell Tax Incentive Review Council (TIRC) met on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 2:00 PM in Council Chambers at 47 Hall Street, Powell, Ohio. The council reviewed tax abatement reports for tax year 2025, including a residential Community Reinvestment Area (CRA) agreement and three Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts. All current agreements were found to be in compliance and were recommended for continuation. Roll Call and Election of Vice Chair - Members present: Shari Lewis (Chair, Delaware County Auditor's designee), Jeffrey Tyler (Assistant City Manager, designee for City Manager), Andy Moore, Ryan Jenkins, Chris Bell, Samantha Borgers, Heather Carr. - Election of Vice Chair: Heather Carr was nominated and unanimously elected as Vice Chair. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the TIRC meeting on February 19, 2025, were approved as submitted by unanimous vote. Consideration Agenda: Residential CRA – 70 Case Avenue - The council reviewed the residential CRA for 70 Case Avenue, which is a 15-year 100% property tax abatement. - Discussion clarified that this is the second year of reporting (tax year 2025 payable in 2026). The first year (tax year 2024 payable in 2025) was previously reported. The property received its occupancy permit in 2023, and the application was submitted in 2024. - The property owner had paid one half of the tax bill; the other half remained outstanding. No other issues were noted. - Key note: This agreement was approved under the 2023 CRA, which has since been modified in 2025 (area footprint change). This property will continue under the original CRA terms. - Vote: A motion to find the CRA in compliance and to continue the agreement passed unanimously. No Active Enterprise Zone (EZ) Agreements - There is no Enterprise Zone district within Powell city limits, so no EZ agreements are active. No Active Commercial/Industrial CRA Agreements - No commercial or industrial CRA agreements were active for reporting in tax year 2025. The council noted that new CRAs for Kroger (Powell Northern CRA) and Co-Hatch (Downtown CRA) were activated in January 2026, and their first reports will be due in 2027. Consideration Agenda: Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts - Staff presented reports for the three active TIF districts. All were found in compliance and continued unanimously. 1. Downtown TIF - Pilot payment received (2025): $784,826.85 - Cumulative collections (since 2008): $6.5 million - Annual disbursements (2025): $101,056 (for parking lot maintenance, infrastructure reimbursement, parking lease, and two residential renovation grants) - Cumulative expenditures (since 2009): $1.9 million - Current balance: $4,595,027.73 - Upcoming project (2026): $750,000 budgeted for pedestrian crossing improvements on South Liberty Street over CSX railroad. 2. Seldom Seen TIF - Pilot payment received (2025): $275,178.18 - Cumulative collections (since 2017): $799,094.44 - Annual disbursements (2025): $298,217.96 (Liberty Township Fire EMS payment of $124,786.32 and POW Grand infrastructure debt service of $170,550) - Cumulative expenditures (since 2017): $765,158 - Current balance: $33,936.44 3. Sawmill Corridor Commercial TIF - Pilot payment received (2025): $571,962.80 - Cumulative collections (since 2012): $4.7 million - Annual disbursements (2025): $74,571.70 (DACC pilot payment of $67,913.68 to make up missed payments to school districts) - Cumulative expenditures (since 2013): $2.5 million - Current balance: $2,212,857.98 - Upcoming project (2026–2027): $550,000 budgeted for traffic signal enhancements along Sawmill Corridor, including engineering, construction, protected left turns, and equipment replacement. Adjournment - The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

The Powell Development Corporation (PDC) met on February 24, 2026, at 6:31 PM in Council Chambers. Mayor Heather Karr presided. Members present included Treasurer Nicole Scott, Economic Development Administrator Sean Hughes, City Manager Andrew D. White, and Mayor Karr. Chairman Jim Hrivnak was absent. Staff present included City Clerk Elaine McCloskey, Accounting Specialist Jodi Reed, and Finance Director Samantha Borchers. The meeting adjourned at 7:17 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the January 27, 2026 PDC meeting were approved by consensus. Public Comments & Testimony - No citizen participation was offered. Discussion Items - Treasurer's Report (January): Finance Director Samantha Borchers reported two notable items. The charging station utility cost was higher than typical: the monthly AEP invoice was $3,256.62 (about $2,600 in a typical month), plus an additional $600 to reimburse the City for electricity at 47 Hall Street (covering September–December 2025). Real estate line included $15,950, of which $15,788.50 was the full-year property tax payment for 4630 W. Powell Road; a tax exemption was filed but not yet approved, and legal advised paying it. Net loss for the month was $17,684.48, with just under $500,000 in the bank. - Economic Development Administrator's Report (January): Sean Hughes reported 94 projects carried over from 2025, with 42 new projects, totaling 136 projects at end of January 2026 – a 33.3% increase over the same time last year. There was one new business, three retained/expanded businesses, $40,000 of new payroll (transcript says $48,000; minutes say $40,000 – discrepancy noted), and 19 business/retention/expansion visits. City Manager White suggested prioritizing projects by significance; Hughes noted his tracking system categorizes by type but not time allocated. - Delaware Entrepreneurial Center Update: Steve Flaherty and OWU President Matt vandenBerg presented the strategic reset of the center (est. 2018). They introduced the "FounderU" brand, aiming to be a countywide hub for entrepreneurship beyond the physical space. Key initiatives include a 72-hour film festival (proof of launch) and FounderFest (replacing Kickstart Ohio) with a US entrepreneurship competition. Only 12% of small businesses use AI at scale, presenting opportunity. They emphasized founder-led ecosystem, reciprocity, and future capital funds (ETA Fund, Startup Fund). They seek a single financial partnership agreement across Delaware County cities (Sunbury, Powell, Delaware City). vandenBerg noted OWU's largest class in 17 years, record retention, and philanthropic investment. - PDC Budget Adjustments: Finance Director Borchers presented a new budget layout with columns for prior three years, current year, and projections for next four years (using 3–5% annual increases). Orange cells indicate approved/committed grants. Larger expenses (land acquisition, large grants) are falling off, allowing cash build-up. Discussion noted most grants are performance-based, needing flexibility. - PDC Code of Regulations: Hughes reviewed legal memo recommending adoption of amended and restated Code of Regulations with effective date March 1, 2026, allowing City Council to make appointments and form a nomination committee. Motion to adopt passed unanimously. - Sponsorships: Discussion on State of the City (requested $1,200, up from $1,000 last year) and Powell Festival (increase to $25,000 base tier for 2026). Two motions passed: one to increase budget amounts, one to approve the sponsorship payments. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved by consensus. - Motion adopted: City Manager White moved to adopt the amended and restated Powell Community Improvement Corporation (doing business as Powell Development Corporation) Code of Regulations with effective date March 1, 2026. Seconded by Treasurer Scott. Vote: Y-4, N-0, AB-0. - Motion passed: To increase Powell Festival sponsorship to $25,000 and State of the City to $1,200. Moved by White, seconded by Hughes. Vote: Y-4, N-0, AB-0. - Motion passed: To pay for the approved sponsorships. Moved by Hughes, seconded by White. Vote: Y-4, N-0, AB-0. - Motion passed: To adjourn at 7:17 PM. Moved by White, seconded by Scott. Vote: Y-4, N-0, AB-0.