Public Meetings - Toledo, Ohio

The Finance, Debt, and Budget Oversight Committee met on March 24, 2026, at 9:00 AM. The meeting included updates on DPU past-due collection efforts, the Department of Finance's monthly report covering tax collections, general fund revenues and expenditures, CIP, ARPA, and wage and hour compliance. No public comments were heard. DPU Past-Due Collection Efforts Update - Chief Robson presented a monthly report on installment plans and collections. As of February 2026, there were over 5,200 residential payment plan accounts, with $45,000 collected in February and $93,000 year-to-date. Commercial high-strength industrial accounts have collected over $145,000. The total estimated collections since efforts began is approximately $5.5 million (including commercial). - The department is developing a phased process for water shutoffs, aiming to present a comprehensive customer assistance plan within the next month. Chairman Sarantu emphasized fairness to the 95% of ratepayers who pay their bills and urged urgency. - Vice Chair Driscoll asked about reporting delinquencies to credit agencies; currently not done. He noted that without that tool, shutoffs are the only enforcement mechanism, and delinquency costs are built into rates for all customers. - Councilmember Gaddis asked about the customer assistance grant program and senior discounts. The department will provide data on potential eligibility. Community groups (Power of Junction, Broadway Corridor Coalition, One Voice) have offered to help with outreach. - The next report will include a running total of collections and is due at the next meeting on April 29, 2026. Department of Finance Report Income Tax Collections (Commissioner Zavisha) - Through February 2026, overall income tax collections are down $371,358 year-over-year, but less than 8% of annual collections have been received, making early trends unreliable. Withholding is down 1.7%; net profits are slightly down. The 2025 unaudited tax number is now mostly final, with the 13th period closed. - The compliance unit collected $21,000 more than last year to date; the second-best year ($6.2 million) was 2025. - Chairman Sarantu asked about top-75 employer trends; Commissioner Zavisha noted it is too early, but they monitor for one-time payments vs. ongoing changes. - Vice Chair Driscoll inquired about the 2026 budget projection given known 2025 figures; the department expects a bounce-back in net profits and is introducing new programs estimated to bring in $4 million. They will reassess after April data. - The new Ohio Attorney General program (assigned $2.6 million) has collected $249,000. The IRS data matching unit (STACKS) has brought in $880,000. General Fund Revenues and Expenditures (Director Campbell) - General fund revenues are at 8.6% of budget through February (vs. 10.6% last year); the variance is mainly due to property tax settlement timing. Expenditures are at 14.2% of budget, with positive variances in labor and service/supply costs. Fire overtime is above budget but expected to improve after a recent fire recruit class graduation. - Councilmember Hobbs asked about upcoming police and fire retirements and staffing impacts; Director Campbell noted typical retirements of 20–30 per year but will provide more specific projections. CIP and ARPA Reports - Capital Improvement Program (CIP) has about $133 million in active projects. - ARPA: $12.6 million remains unspent; the performance period ends in December 2026. Vice Chair Driscoll stressed the need for departments to have concrete spending plans to avoid a last-minute scramble. Chairman Sarantu clarified that any leftover funds must be used for similar purposes. - Councilmember Jones requested that future ARPA reports include a column showing the percentage of funds expended. Director Campbell agreed to add it. - Councilmember Martinez asked about the Starbase project; Councilmember Gaddis clarified that build-out is continuing but the original Department of Defense program has changed. The city is working with the Metro Parks on the space. Wage and Hour Compliance (Commissioner Morey) - Approximately 9,300 postcards and 20,000 emails were sent to employers notifying them of the new wage-theft ordinance posting requirement. Eleven employee complaints have been processed to date (average recovery $1,575). - One case went to court and settled this morning, recovering $3,000 for the employee. - Through field enforcement (focusing on owner-pulled permits and misclassification), the division has recovered over $1 million in owed taxes, averaging $9,000 per week. - Councilmember Martinez asked about potential abuse of the complaint system; Commissioner Morey said the division has discretion to decline cases lacking evidence. Key Outcomes - The next committee meeting is scheduled for April 29, 2026, at 4:00 PM. - Chief Robson will provide a running total of DPU collections and a comprehensive customer assistance plan at that meeting. - Future ARPA reports will include an expended percentage column. - The Finance Department will continue to monitor tax collections and report on budget concerns after first quarter data. - The wage and hour division will continue field enforcement and expects increased call volume due to the new posting requirement.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no summary can be generated.

The City of Toledo Board of Revision of Assessments convened at 10 a.m. on March 19, 2026 in City Council Chambers. Board members in attendance were Director of Finance Melanie Campbell, Director of Public Service Joe Fossnaw, and Law Department designee Paul Searing (serving as chair). The board considered one agenda item: Resolution 465-25, proposing the vacation of a 25-foot wide alley behind 2024 Champlain Street. After a presentation by city staff, the board voted unanimously to forward the resolution to City Council with a recommendation for approval. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public addressed the board. The chair briefly acknowledged an attendee, but no testimony was given. Discussion Items Resolution 465-25: Alley Vacation - Proposal: The resolution declares the city’s intent to vacate a 25-foot alley located behind 2024 Champlain Street. The applicant, 2024 Champlain Properties LLC, petitioned for the vacation. The alley was part of the Nickel’s Second Edition subdivision and was affected by the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Buckeye Basin relocation project. - City Administration’s Position: Public Service representative Mr. Sweeney presented the case. He reported that the city has no objections to the vacation and encourages it. He noted that a sanitary sewer line crosses the alley, requiring the applicant to maintain an easement for future repairs. The Toledo Plan Commission had previously recommended approval with standard conditions. - Applicant: The applicant did not appear at the hearing but had received proper notification by certified mail. No objections were raised by the applicant or adjacent property owners. - Board Deliberation: After the presentation, board members asked no questions. A motion to approve was made by Director Campbell and seconded by Director Fossnaw. Key Outcomes - Vote: The board approved Resolution 465-25 by a 3-0 roll call vote. Voting in favor: Director Melanie Campbell, Director Joe Fossnaw, and Law Department designee Paul Searing. - Fees: The total cost for the vacation is $2,136.25, comprising: land cost $1,711.25, work required $250, engineering $25, and recording fee $100. - Next Steps: The resolution will be forwarded to Toledo City Council with the board’s recommendation for approval. The meeting adjourned without any other business.

The Toledo Zoning and Planning Committee met on March 18, 2026, at 4:00 PM in City Council Chambers. Chair Vanice Williams presided with members Adam Martinez, Mac Driscoll, Theresa Gadus, Nick Komives, and George Sarantou present. Theresa Morris, John Hobbs III, and Sam Melden were absent. The committee considered five land-use cases and received a report from the Planning Director on upcoming initiatives. Land Use Applications Case 1 – Alley Vacation (V-24-25) – 2014 Consaul Street Applicant Rob Keelahan, representing the Toledo Diocese, requested the vacation of a portion of an alley adjacent to St. Stephen’s school. The Plan Commission recommended approval with four conditions. Keelahan explained that previous vacations had inaccurate legal descriptions, and the city had supported the correction. Director Catrell, a former St. Stephen’s graduate, noted the alley had not been used since at least 1978. The committee voted to forward the case to the Board of Revision. Case 2 – Zone Change (Z-26-0001) – 3360/3356 Monroe Street Applicant Kevin Roscoe requested a zone change from CR (Regional Commercial) to CM (Mixed Commercial Residential) to allow residential units in a previously commercial property. The Plan Commission recommended approval. Roscoe stated he had worked to bring the property into compliance and planned a mixed-use development. Councilmember Theresa Gadus (District 4) expressed excitement and directed Roscoe to the city’s White Box Program (contact April Welch, application available April 1). The committee forwarded the case to full City Council with a recommendation of approval for the March 31, 2026 meeting. Case 3 – Special Use Permit (SUP-25-0041) – Used Auto Sales – 631 South Reynolds Road Applicants Wasville Alvadur and Devin Nichols sought a special use permit for a used car lot. The Plan Commission recommended approval subject to 22 conditions. Councilmember Nick Komives noted the location was the former Rose Auto Sales. Because Councilmember John Hobbs (district councilperson) was absent, the committee sent the case to full City Council without a recommendation, to be considered on March 31, 2026. Case 4 – Special Use Permit (SUP-25-0046) – Community Recreation Active – 2858/2860 Lagrange Street Applicant Shavella Bonner proposed “Strength Works,” a community center offering skill building, behavioral health resources, and summer programming, especially for youth impacted by foster care. The Plan Commission approved with 28 conditions (one removed, leaving 27). Bonner stated improvements had already begun. Councilmember Gadus, the district representative, voiced strong support and noted the neighborhood’s need for positive activities. She forwarded the case to full City Council with a recommendation of approval. Case 5 – Comprehensive Historic Preservation Study (M-1-26) Associate Planner Bill Harbor presented the study, combining a 2024 list of 358 privately owned properties and a 2026 list of 344 publicly owned properties. After removing properties in overlay districts with existing demolition processes, the combined list totaled 139 data points (Exhibit B). Examples included schools, churches, fire stations, banks, libraries, and unique structures like Benz Pool and the Overland Smokestack. Harbor identified water intrusion as the primary cause of deterioration and suggested preservation tools such as facade improvement grants, roof programs, and demolition-by-neglect policies. Councilmembers discussed the economic and community value of historic preservation. The committee agreed to forward the study to City Council with a recommendation of approval. Planning Director’s Report and Committee Discussion Director Catrell provided updates on several initiatives: - An adaptive reuse program (modeled on Buffalo’s) to incentivize mixed use in historic buildings. - Healthy food overlay and native plant study to be presented in two months. - University of Toledo students, with Planner Dana Rising, will present native plant recommendations at the next committee meeting. - A proposed text amendment to reduce lot sizes and setbacks for pre-approved housing plans, funded by a pro-housing grant. - A similar amendment for industrial building additions to relax site plan requirements. - The zoning code rewrite consultant selection is proceeding. - The only active moratorium is on historic properties; the committee is close to completing the associated study. Committee members discussed heritage tree preservation and the importance of native plants, referencing the Anthony Wayne Trail wildflower issue and Mayor’s youth council comments. Councilmember Mac Driscoll noted that the Westgate development missed the opportunity to incorporate native plants, and urged stronger requirements. Director Catrell confirmed a tree preservation study is underway but delayed due to a staff member’s maternity leave. Public Comments Bryce Robinson and Jamar Johnson addressed the committee about their experience purchasing properties from the city’s demolition list. Robinson stated he had invested time and money into rehabilitating a house, only for the city to demolish it. He argued the city provides no guidance on the responsibilities of property ownership (taxes, nuisance orders, water bills). Johnson emphasized that demolition eliminates property tax revenue and reduces opportunities for local investors. Councilmembers Gadus, Martinez, and Driscoll responded sympathetically, acknowledging the lack of a clear process. Councilmember Gadus (Vice Chair of the Housing Committee) committed to working with Dr. Jones on a committee hearing to create a fact sheet or educational program for aspiring developers. Councilmember Martinez offered to meet offline to provide guidance and discuss financial resources. Key Outcomes - Case 1 sent to Board of Revision. - Case 2 forwarded to City Council with recommendation of approval (March 31). - Case 3 forwarded to City Council without recommendation (March 31). - Case 4 forwarded to City Council with recommendation of approval. - Case 5 forwarded to City Council with recommendation of approval. - Public comment led to commitments: Housing Committee hearing to improve property-purchase education; Councilmember Martinez’s offer of mentorship; exploration of a fact sheet and podcast. - Director’s report noted upcoming presentations and legislative proposals (text amendments in two months, native plant study, etc.). Adjournment The meeting was adjourned.

The Toledo City Council met on March 17, 2026, with eight members present (Councilman Meldon absent). The meeting featured recognitions for Women's History Month, unanimous confirmation of numerous appointments, passage of infrastructure bond ordinances including a $19.8 million RAISE grant for Dorr Street, and adoption of immigration-related policies. Council members also voiced strong criticism of First Energy's response to widespread power outages affecting over 200,000 residents. Recognitions and Proclamations - Resolution 83-26: Recognized Stephanie D. Connard for Women's History Month, honoring her entrepreneurial excellence, community service, and leadership. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 84-26: Recognized Trevor Diane Thomas Black for Women's History Month, honoring her 27-year career in special education, fashion design, and co-founding the HBCU Tour. Passed unanimously. Appointments All appointments were confirmed unanimously unless noted: - Eric Craig (reappointment) to the Board of Zoning Appeals for a 5-year term. - Josh Abernathy (new) to the Electrical Board of Control for a 3-year term. - Harold Davis (new) to the Municipal Golf Preservation and Engagement Committee for a 3-year term. - Abby Arnold and Dr. Tiffany Whitman (new) to the Community Reinvestment Area Housing Council for 3-year terms. - Abney Carter and Suzette Cowell (new) to the Tax Incentive Review Council for 3-year terms. - Dr. Brittany Jones and Councilwoman Teresa Gaddis (new) to the Community Reinvestment Area Housing Council; both abstained from the vote. Confirmed unanimously. Second Reading Ordinances (All Passed Unanimously Unless Noted) - Ordinance 60-26: Appropriated $100,000 from water/sewer/stormwater funds for the Customer Assistance Grant Program. Passed. - Ordinances 65-26 and 66-26: Authorized a loan agreement with Toledo Community Improvement Corporation for a shovel-ready sites fund ($18.7 million) and corresponding bond issuance for job creation and housing development. Passed. - Ordinance 67-26: Authorized $19.8 million in bonds for the RAISE Grant Program to improve Dorr Street infrastructure (reconstruction, water lines, sewers, bike lanes, sidewalks, multi-use path, public art). Passed after Councilwoman McPherson clarified prior community engagement and the need to accept federal funding. - Ordinance 68-26: Authorized $12.21 million in bonds for street system improvements in cooperation with ODOT. Passed. - Ordinance 69-26: Authorized $7.49 million in bonds to refund certain capital improvement bonds (Series 2015). Passed. - Ordinance 70-26: Authorized $1.1 million in bonds for fire apparatus and equipment. Passed. - Ordinance 71-26: Authorized $3.5 million for the 2026 sidewalk program ($500,000 from Capital Improvement Fund, $1.75 million from Special Assessment Improvement Fund, $1.25 million from Tree Assessment Fund). Held to March 31, 2026 on motion of Councilman Martinez. - Ordinance 72-26: Authorized cooperative grant agreement with ODOT for a multi-use path on Parkside Boulevard ($1,016,495). Held to March 31, 2026. - Ordinance 78-26: Changed zoning maps for 188 parcels in the historic Vistula District. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 97-26: Authorized the Clerk of Toledo Municipal Court to purchase case file folders for $110,120. Passed. - Ordinance 98-26: Authorized a $50,000 contribution to the League Toledo Lucas County Victim Witness Assistance Program. Passed. - Ordinance 99-26: Authorized acceptance of $250,000 from ODOT for the drones for first responders program, waiving competitive bidding. Passed. - Ordinance 100-26: Authorized contract for advanced life support/basic life support transport billing and collection services. Passed. - Ordinance 101-26: Authorized $25,000 from the nuisance abatement trust fund for emergency repair at 3032 Warsaw Street, waiving competitive bidding. Passed. - Ordinance 102-26: Appropriated $2.5 million for bulk chemicals at Collins Park Water Treatment Plant and $500,000 for bulk chemicals at Bayview Water Reclamation Plant. Passed. - Ordinance 103-26: Expressed council support and authorized application for water pollution control loan funds for Bayview Water Reclamation Plant improvements. Passed with two no votes (McPherson and Morris). - Ordinance 104-26: Appropriated $200,000 from the water replacement fund for low service pumping station well improvements. Passed. - Ordinance 105-26: Authorized acceptance of $275,000 from Lucas County Commissioners for the 2026 county planning program. Passed. - Ordinance 106-26: Authorized application for zero-interest loans for lead service line replacement ($2 million). Passed. - Ordinance 107-26: Authorized $1 million for a crosstown water main route study. First reading only; no vote taken. New Business from City Council - Resolution 91-26 (Councilwoman Martinez and Dr. Jones): Requested the Toledo City Plan Commission to study the Reynolds Corners area for economic development. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 92-26 (Councilwoman Martinez): Requested a comprehensive analysis of light industrial zoning to streamline development. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 93-26 (multiple sponsors): Requested review of text amendments to Toledo Municipal Code Chapter 1104 regarding detention facilities and special use permits. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 94-26 (multiple sponsors): Urged federal agencies to conduct immigration enforcement in accordance with the U.S. Constitution and outlined recommendations. Amended for clarification; passed unanimously. - Ordinance 95-26 (multiple sponsors): Enacted Chapter 115 of the Toledo Municipal Code entitled "Immigration Status and City Resources," declaring an emergency. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 96-26 (Councilwoman Gaddis): Sought to enact new sections on obstructing access to education and harassment of educators. Moved to the Community and Administrative Services Committee for further input. Discussion Items - RAISE Grant (Ordinance 67-26): Councilwoman McPherson addressed misinformation, emphasizing that prior community meetings were held, the grant is for infrastructure, and further meetings will occur. She strongly denied ignoring the Dorr Street community. - First Energy Power Outages: Multiple council members criticized First Energy's response to widespread outages (from severe weather on March 14-15). Councilman Sarantu noted peak outages of 200,000, delayed restoration promises, and a family reliant on medical equipment losing power for nearly three days. Councilwoman McPherson called the response unacceptable and urged holding the utility accountable. Councilman Driscoll highlighted the need for infrastructure investment instead of rate increases. Councilwoman Kramer reported subpar communication and safety concerns (e.g., residents unable to charge wheelchairs or refrigerate medication). - Harrow Road Project: Councilman Martinez announced cancellation of a planned community meeting because the administration (Department of Transportation) declined to send staff, citing sufficient communication. He expressed frustration and stated a transportation committee hearing would be hosted by Councilman Driscoll to ensure residents’ voices are heard. - Immigration Legislation: Council members Comives, Kramer, Martinez, and Driscoll praised the unanimous passage of Resolution 94-26 and Ordinance 95-26, noting extensive community input and the importance of protecting all residents. - Glass City Academy: Councilwoman McPherson and Dr. Jones reported attending a board meeting following a shooting at the school; they called for improved safety and thanked law enforcement for presence. - Budget: Councilman Sarantu announced a special council meeting on March 31, 2026 at 2:00 PM to discuss the city budget, citing the need for reductions as the budget stabilization fund approaches zero. Key Outcomes - All resolutions and ordinances on the agenda passed, with the following exceptions: Ordinance 71-26 and 72-26 held to March 31; Ordinance 96-26 moved to committee; Ordinance 107-26 on first reading only; Ordinance 103-26 passed with two dissenting votes (McPherson and Morris). - Appointments were all confirmed unanimously, with abstentions by Jones and Gaddis on their own appointments. - Council directed the Plan Commission to study Reynolds Corners and light industrial zoning. - Council adopted policies limiting city resources for civil immigration enforcement. - Council members committed to seeking accountability from First Energy and improving infrastructure communication. - A special budget meeting was scheduled for March 31, 2026 at 2:00 PM.

This meeting of the Toledo City Plan Commission covered a range of zoning and land use items, including special use permits for gas stations, a water tower, a solar field, and several zone changes. The commission heard public testimony, debated sign and operating hour waivers, and deferred several items for further community engagement. Consent Calendar - Items 3, 4, 5: Cases Z250038 (zone change), SP250049 (special use permit for gas/fuel sales), and PUD26005 (removal of lot from PUD) at 1322 Burnath Parkway were deferred 30 days to the April agenda at the applicant’s request. Motion carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Case SUP250036 (Sheetz gas station at 5305/5321 Monroe St & 4700 Nantucket Dr): Multiple Nantucket Drive residents opposed the project citing increased traffic, safety concerns for pedestrians and cyclists, lack of sidewalks, and proximity to apartments. One speaker questioned the impartiality of the traffic study. Another expressed disappointment that Eddie Lee’s and a noodle restaurant were being forced out. Laura Dreheim (4525 Nantucket Dr) spoke for the Nantucket neighbors. Christopher P. Basil (4828 S Bridge Rd) shared recent traffic increases from the Monroe Street bridge closure. Cheryl Bath (4408 Nantucket Dr) emphasized the street’s history as a dead end and current traffic volume of 1200-1700 cars per day. Robert Raven (4350 Nantucket Dr) questioned why a gas station should be placed on a residential street. Jeffrey Mason (4802 S Bridge Rd) noted impacts on Statesville across Monroe Street and potential overnight parking by trucks. - Case SUP26002 (water towers at 1910 North Over Rd): Laura Crawford (5455 Glastonbury) opposed, citing proximity to her home, loss of wildlife habitat, and noise. Kim Capoletti (1851 Buckloo Dr) expressed concern for deer and fawns. No other public testimony was offered. - Case SUP25003/MRO126 (solar field at 627 Lotus Ave): Several neighbors spoke in opposition citing lack of notification, wildlife impacts (deer, birds, turkeys), and the area’s natural beauty. Penny Noyes (634 Lotus Ave) mentioned buried concrete slabs on the site. Letters from children were read. Sue Terrell (1844 Lynbrook) criticized poor signage and short notice. Abby Dennis (921 Thurston Ave) spoke in favor, noting benefits for Marshall STEM Academy and community reinvestment. Delpharina Mora (516 Colburn) reported calls from constituents who were uneducated about the project. The speakers also mentioned an access easement concern. Discussion Items - Case SUP250036 (Sheetz gas station): Applicant Alex Sowickey (Sheetz) updated the commission: traffic study was submitted with no required mitigations; they objected to condition 41 (billboard) but accepted its possible deferral to council. The commission discussed the billboard waiver (nine code sections) and voted to deny that waiver (vote: ayes carry). On the 24-hour operation waiver, the roll call resulted in a 2-2 tie, so the waiver failed; the condition requiring hours 5:30 AM–1 AM remained. The entire application then also tied 2-2, meaning the case goes to council as a disapproval. - Case SUP25048 (gas station expansion at 4486 Monroe St): Applicant Scott Hick described a small station adding coolers and needing a 10-foot rear setback (variance from 15 feet). The commission approved that waiver unanimously. They also voted to deny the sign waiver (multiple code violations), meaning the sign must be replaced. The entire application was approved unanimously. A condition was added for a rear privacy fence/screening subject to plan director approval. - Case Z26003 (zone change at 419 Roanoke Rd): The applicant requested a downzone from CO office commercial to RD6 duplex residential for an existing single-family home. Approved unanimously. - Case Z26002 (zone change at 2500 Collingwood Blvd): Diocese of Toledo requested a zone change from CN Neighborhood Commercial and RS6 to CO Office Commercial to allow a campus setting with consistent signage. Staff supported; approved unanimously. The change only enables potential larger signs; the sign itself requires separate historic commission approval. - Case Z26004 (zone change at 2855/2857 Lagrange St): Applicant Martin Legie requested change from CS Storefront Commercial to CM Mixed Commercial-Residential to convert the building into a residential loft with office. Approved unanimously. - Case SPR26006 (parking lot at 600 Matzinger Rd): Bryce Rotz and Scott Carlin proposed a new parking lot for security at a chemical plant. Approved unanimously with 30 conditions; does not go to council. - Case SUP26001 (water tower at Schneider Park): Natalie Langendurfer of the Department of Public Utilities presented a project to improve water distribution reliability. No public opposition. Approved unanimously; goes to council April 15. - Case SUP26002 (two water towers at 1910 North Over Rd): The applicant noted a looming EPA deadline and requested modification to landscaping condition 26a for security reasons, changed to plan director approval. The commission deferred the case to April to allow a neighborhood meeting after concerns about location near a school and residences. - Case SUP25003/MRO126 (solar field at 627 Lotus Ave): Joe Cordella (Historic South Initiative) said revenue would fund neighborhood rehabs. Molly Thompson (Elevated Energy Solutions) described a 1.5 MW, 4.5-acre solar array on city-owned land, set away from homes. The commission deferred to April after neighbors complained about lack of notice and access easement concerns. Key Outcomes - Motion to deny sign waiver (Sheetz): Approved unanimously (billboard condition stays). - Motion to approve 24-hour waiver (Sheetz): Failed 2-2; hours remain 5:30 AM–1 AM. - Motion to approve entire Sheetz application: Failed 2-2; case goes to city council as disapproval. - Motion to deny sign waiver (Monroe St station): Approved; sign must be replaced with monument sign. - Motion to approve rear setback waiver (Monroe St station): Approved unanimously. - Motion to approve Monroe St station application: Approved unanimously; goes to council April 15. - Zone change Z26003: Approved unanimously; goes to council April 15. - Zone change Z26002: Approved unanimously; goes to council April 15. - Zone change Z26004: Approved unanimously; goes to council April 15. - Site plan SPR26006: Approved unanimously; applicant complete. - Water tower at Schneider Park: Approved unanimously; goes to council April 15. - North Over water towers: Deferred to April agenda to allow a neighborhood meeting. - Solar field (Lotus Ave): Deferred to April agenda to allow a neighborhood meeting. - Director’s Report: Zoning code rewrite RFP scoring underway; consultant selection expected soon.

On March 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM in Toledo City Council Chambers, the City Council held a special recorded public hearing for Democracy Day, a citizen-initiated event to examine the impact of political contributions from corporations, unions, PACs, and super PACs, and issues arising from corporate personhood. Council members Driscoll, Kramer, Sarantu, McPherson, and President Williams attended, along with the Mayor. The hearing lasted approximately 90 minutes and featured seven public speakers addressing a range of national and local concerns. Public Comments & Testimony - Tony Salagi (sponsor of Democracy Day) opened the hearing, referencing the 1971 Powell Memo and arguing that corporate influence has undermined democracy, free elections, and public health. He called for an educated public and economic justice, including health care and free college. - Unnamed speaker (second speaker) expressed support for the 28th Amendment to limit corporate influence. He raised concerns about the Toledo Public Schools (TPS) $68 million deficit, the lack of adequate notice for a planning commission meeting on a property (672 Lotus) near his home, and the need for actionable steps and monthly in-person meetings with elected officials. He left a handwritten statement and a list of statewide organizations promoting public education. - Peggy Daily Masternack (3455 Drummond Road) criticized the I-475 expansion project, citing health harms from highway pollutants, ODOT's own data showing nine carcinogenic pollutants, and the project's cost of over a quarter-billion dollars (66% unnecessary). She noted that the I-475 Neighborhoods Coalition has opposed the expansion for six years, arguing it benefits corporate trucking and harms residents. She urged the council to pass a resolution opposing the expansion. - Mr. Nestor (Sean) thanked council members and speakers. He argued that corporate personhood, rooted in the Citizens United decision, undermines government legitimacy and discourages participation. He noted Democracy Day was enacted in 2016, and questioned whether the country has become more or less democratic. He urged local officials to prioritize the people's will over career interests. - Nancy Larson (Sylvania, 43560) shared her experience of a hung jury after a protest arrest for blocking a doorway at Senator Eusted's office. She argued that the justice system punishes ordinary citizens while allowing elected officials to break laws with impunity, citing Israel funding. She referenced a Sylvania ballot initiative to limit local resources for ICE enforcement, and called on local officials to act as a frontline defense for democracy. - Dennis Slotnik (Genoa, 43430) noted it is the 10th anniversary of Democracy Day. He cited statistics: $229 million from one person bought the presidency, 2,200 corporations each spent an average of $3 million on super PACs, 226 trade groups involved, and 25 individuals spent $1.4 billion. He reported that fossil fuel industry profits increased 68% in 2025 due to administration policies. He also noted positive global trends in solar and wind energy. - Eric (last name not given) thanked the council for the committee hearing the previous night. He raised concerns about the approval process for large data center projects, citing three problems: anonymous land acquisition, anonymity of applications filed under LLCs, and dedicated natural gas plants attached to data centers that bypass normal permitting. He urged the city to adopt ordinances to ensure transparency and oversight. - Robert Worthington (last name given as Worthington) thanked council and the Mayor. He described Democracy Day as Toledo's Citizens' Day and argued that money is the root cause of societal division. He urged the council to help Toledo become a leader in educating people and finding common ground, rather than condemning ignorance. He called for talking through disagreements to reach truth. Key Outcomes - No formal votes, resolutions, or referrals were made. The hearing was solely for public testimony and council listening. Council President Williams thanked the community and noted the council has been listening. - The meeting adjourned without further action. The next Democracy Day is expected in one year.

The Toledo City Council convened on March 10, 2026, for an agenda review meeting. The meeting covered a range of items including municipal contracts, a drone program grant, fire department billing services, emergency repairs, water treatment chemicals, loan applications, and lead service line replacements. Several items were approved under suspension of council procedures (SEP), while others were deferred for further information. Discussion Items - Item 1: Bulk Printing of Case File Folders – The Toledo Municipal Court requested authorization to purchase case file folders for $10,120 from Friends Office LLC. Funds are budgeted in the outside printing line item. SEP was requested. - Item 2: Drones for First Responders Program – Authorization to accept a $250,000 ODOT grant for a drone program. The drones will respond to calls for service, provide real-time observation, and act as a force multiplier. Six pilots are already in place. Councilman Martinez expressed strong support, citing safety benefits. Councilman Melton asked about effectiveness evaluation and future technology. Questions addressed range (3-3.5 miles), weather operability, and mutual aid. The program includes quarterly technical meetings. SEP was requested. - Item 3: Fire and Rescue Transport Billing – Authorization to contract for advanced life support and basic life support transport billing services. Councilwoman Morris expressed concern that revenues go to the general fund rather than being earmarked for fire department expenses. SEP was requested. - Item 4: Emergency Repairs at 3032 Warsaw Street – Authorization to spend up to $25,000 from the Nu Sense abatement trust fund for emergency utility work. Councilman Comives questioned why city crews could not perform the work. SEP was requested. - Item 5: Bulk Chemical Funding for Water Treatment – Short-term funding for chemicals to maintain minimum inventory per EPA regulations. Councilwoman Morris requested a detailed list of chemicals, amounts, and pricing. Councilman Sarantsu asked about purchasing frequency. Councilwoman Gaddis inquired about sourcing and tariff impacts. Referral was made for more information. - Item 6: Loan Applications for Bayview Water Reclamation Facility – Authorization to apply for loans for facility projects. Councilman Sarantsu asked about the plant size compared to Houston and requested the Arcadus report. Councilwoman Morris requested a submission to OEPA. Referral made. - Item 7: Well Construction at Low Service Pumping Station – Appropriation for a well to reduce water purchases from Oregon, saving an estimated $200,000 per year with a payback period under two years. SEP was requested. - Item 8: Planning Grant from Lucas County – Acceptance of $275,000 annual grant for planning services to 11 townships. SEP was requested. - Item 9: Lead Service Line Replacement Loan/Grant – Authorization to use a matching grant to replace lead service lines encountered during engineering projects. Councilwoman McPherson asked about prior ARPA funding and remaining work. Councilman Martinez clarified coordination with construction projects to avoid future costs. SEP was requested. - Item 10: Crosstown Water Main Study – Appropriation up to $1 million for a study on replacing the crosstown water main, installed in 1941. Councilwoman McPherson requested more detail on the study scope and cost estimate. Councilman Driscoll agreed to hold for first read pending answers. - Second Read: Ordinance 60-26 (Customer Assistance Grant) – $100,000 for utility customer assistance. Councilman Martinez moved to hold in committee until a comprehensive water turnoff strategy is presented. Director Bannister indicated readiness to present early next month. Councilman Sarantsu requested a DPU collections progress report for March 25 finance committee. - New Items from City Council – Councilman Martinez introduced two resolutions: one requesting a study of the Reynolds Corner area for economic development, and another requesting a study of light industrial zoning to streamline and incentivize development. Other resolutions regarding detention facilities, federal agencies, immigration status, and education were also introduced. A committee of the whole was scheduled for 4 p.m. that day. Key Outcomes - Items 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, and 8 were requested for SEP. No votes are recorded in the transcript, but they were presented for approval. - Item 5 (chemical funding) was referred for additional information. - Item 6 (Bayview loans) was referred for the Arcadus report and OEPA documentation. - Item 9 (lead service lines) was requested for SEP. - Item 10 (crosstown water main study) was held for first read pending answers to council's questions. - Ordinance 60-26 (customer assistance) was held in committee pending a comprehensive water turnoff strategy presentation. - The two resolutions from Councilman Martinez were introduced and will be referred to the Plan Commission.

The Toledo City Council Committee of the Whole met on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 4:00 PM in City Council Chambers to discuss and receive public testimony on proposed legislation related to federal immigration enforcement. Council President Van East Williams presided. The meeting included presentations by Councilmember Theresa Gadus on five proposed pieces of legislation (two resolutions, two ordinances, and a possible walk-on ordinance), statements from multiple council members expressing support, and public comment from 16 individuals and three additional speakers. No votes were taken; the meeting was focused on discussion and community input. Public Comments & Testimony - Enrique Garcia (representing APS, a group of 25 community leaders) expressed support, stating that the community fears government overreach and urged council to pass legislation protecting constitutional rights. - Alex (first-generation daughter of immigrants, community leader) expressed support, noting that families are afraid to leave their homes and that diversity strengthens the community. - Valentine (first-generation Mexican American) expressed support, sharing a personal story of cross-cultural friendship and urging passage of the legislation. - Jessica Molina (representing the Farm Labor Organizing Committee, FLOC) expressed support, stating that public safety only works when people feel safe calling 911, and urged passage to rein in indiscriminate ICE raids. - Rebecca Bundy (immigration attorney at ABLE) expressed support, describing systemic cruelty in immigration enforcement and urging council to draw a line to protect community safety. - Brittany Ford provided local economic data: over 10,000 foreign-born residents (3.7% of population), immigrant population increased 12.5% from 2012-2017 offsetting local population loss, $200.9 million earned in 2017 with $30.3 million in federal taxes and $19.4 million in state/local taxes, and immigrants represent 4.6% of workforce and nearly 10% of STEM workers. - Rebecca Silver (72-year-old lifelong Toledo resident) expressed support for the proactive stance, referencing the book "On Tyranny" and urging passage. - Rachel Davis expressed support, noting she has immigrant family and arguing that ICE should not use city resources; also questioned why job creators hiring undocumented workers are not targeted. - Marcia Roby expressed support for legal immigration but raised concerns about illegal immigration, stating that local law enforcement should assist ICE with lawful duties to prevent incidents like those in Minneapolis. - Glenn Ryan expressed support for the legislation, citing unconstitutional acts by ICE (e.g., murders of citizens, arrests of protesters, deplorable detention conditions) and asking what local government can do when the federal government breaks its own laws. - Susan Keene (co-chair of Northwest Ohio Peace Coalition) thanked council and suggested additions: prohibit by law non-medical face coverings for ICE/TPD, prohibit Toledo police from complying with ICE detainer requests even with judicial order, and a mayoral executive order to arrest ICE agents who cause death of residents. - Terry Lodge (attorney, Northwest Ohio Peace Coalition) commended the package but noted issues: proposed section 11502D should say "judicial warrant" not just "warrant"; city parks are not explicitly mentioned as protected properties; and suggested adding national detention standards to zoning conditions. - Harold Mosley expressed support, emphasizing the importance of partnering with local law enforcement and proactivity. - Cindy Matthews expressed support, criticizing the government for not arresting high-profile criminals while targeting immigrants. - Paul Redrup expressed support but raised concern that the education-related ordinance is extraordinarily broad and could inadvertently affect the communities it aims to protect, potentially expanding the police state. - Three additional speakers (name not fully captured) expressed support: one indigenous Mexican person urged unanimous yes vote, one speaker shared experience with Toledo Sister Cities and hosting immigrants from war-torn countries, and one (Angelina, first-generation Mexican American college graduate) expressed emotional thanks and asked how to help. Discussion Items - Councilmember Theresa Gadus (lead sponsor) presented the legislative package: 1) Resolution urging constitutional conduct by federal immigration enforcement (visible ID, no non-medical face coverings, training, marked vehicles). 2) Resolution sending text amendments to City Plan Commission requiring special use permits for detention facilities. 3) Ordinance creating new municipal offenses to protect schools, child care centers, and educators (obstruction, disorderly conduct, harassment). 4) Ordinance codifying city resource policies (prohibiting denial of services based on immigration status, limiting information sharing, restricting use of city funds for civil enforcement, requiring council approval for 287(g) agreements). 5) Possible walk-on ordinance regulating disclosure of biometric data by businesses. - Councilmember Nick Komives expressed support, stating the city does not have an immigration-related crime problem and that using city resources for federal immigration enforcement is unnecessary and morally wrong; emphasized resource allocation. - Councilmember Adam Martinez expressed support, noting his past experience with similar legislation in Arizona and praising the diverse council; stated immigrant populations are key to neighborhood revitalization and that the city can set its own rules for federal operations. - Councilmember Mac Driscoll expressed support, noting close work with Toledo Police Department to ensure the ordinance does not hinder public safety while providing teeth for immigration enforcement. - Councilmember Erin Kramer expressed support, acknowledging that some are afraid to attend and that the legislation is both reactive and proactive; referenced events in Minneapolis and Columbus. - Councilmember Brittany Jones expressed support, describing the legislation as proactive and reaffirming the city's commitment to protecting all residents. - Councilmember Cerssandra McPherson expressed support, emphasizing the value of diversity and the importance of listening before a tragedy occurs. - Councilmember Sam Melden expressed support, referencing the book "On Tyranny" and the concept of not obeying in advance; characterized the conversation as reflective. - Councilmember Theresa Morris expressed support, sharing her 27 years of federal immigration experience and recounting a 2018 ICE raid in Castelli, Ohio; urged comprehensive immigration reform and condemned fear-mongering. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken at this Committee of the Whole meeting. The purpose was to present the proposed legislation and gather public input. - Council members indicated strong support for moving the package forward, with several noting continued work with the law department and administration to refine language (e.g., addressing concerns raised about the education ordinance and park protections). - The meeting concluded with Council President Williams adjourning, stating the importance of community engagement on all topics.