Public Meetings - Whitehall, Ohio

The Whitehall City Council held its committee meeting on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, starting at 6:30 p.m. and adjourning at 7:20 p.m. The agenda listed five pieces of draft legislation, all of which received first readings, and the meeting also included a presentation from the Ohio Domestic Violence Network, discussion of a prior meeting's conduct, and reports from each standing committee. No meeting minutes were available; this summary is based on the agenda and transcript. Presentation: Ohio Domestic Violence Network - Jacqueline Hughley, staff representative for the Ohio Domestic Violence Network (ODVN), presented an overview of survivor services, including help obtaining IDs and birth certificates, and gift cards for gas, food, and clothing for job interviews. She noted that housing is a major challenge for human trafficking survivors because of criminal backgrounds or documents taken by traffickers. - Hughley highlighted Franklin County member programs in ODVN's human trafficking project, plus ODVN work on traumatic brain injury, strangulation, and suffocation led by Rachel Ramirez; prevention efforts led by Glenn Harris; and policy work led by Maria York. - Hughley said ODVN member programs assisted over 75,000 survivors in 2025 but had to turn away about 50% of survivors because programs were at capacity. Member programs answered over 121,000 crisis calls, texts, and web chats. - A council member thanked Hughley, called this year 'exceptionally awful' and record-setting for domestic violence cases, referenced a fatality report distributed at the annual press conference, and noted recent meetings on domestic violence prevention with Glenn Harris and the mayor. Council Conduct Discussion - A councilor raised an incident from the previous week's meeting, saying she read a public roll call as permitted by a rule introduced by another councilor and was then cursed at and screamed at by that councilor inside and outside the building. She said police were needed so she and another councilor could get to their cars and called for consistent accountability and transparency. - Another councilor confirmed witnessing one councilor use a profanity-laced insult toward another councilor while on camera, saying this also violated council rules and should be addressed consistently. - Councilor Adkins responded that he left the previous meeting because rules were being broken and he did not want to associate with that behavior; he said he was not angry when he left. - The council president acknowledged the points, stated that cursing will not be allowed and rules must be followed, and asked for continued decorum. Committee of the Whole – First Readings - Resolution 045-2026: A whistleblower protection and fraud reporting policy under 2 CFR 200.217, 41 U.S.C. 4712, and Ohio Revised Code Section 117.103, with the mayor asked to incorporate it into the employee manual and declaring an emergency. No discussion; introduced and seconded for adoption on November 4, 2026. - Resolution 046-2026: A deposit policy under Ohio Revised Code Section 9.38 for timing of certain public money deposits, declaring an emergency. No discussion; introduced and seconded for adoption on November 4, 2026. Administration and Financial Management - Ordinance 109-2026: Supplemental appropriation and fund transfer of $269,300 from General Fund 101 to Capital Improvement Project Fund 311, then to Capital Improvement Expense Account 311.000.54000. Chairperson Elmore said parking lot and improvement expenses exceeded the capital improvement fund balance, and the transfer is tied to end-of-month transfer percentages not funded in November and December so bills can be paid before January. Introduced and seconded for adoption on November 4, 2026. - Ordinance 110-2026: Supplemental appropriation of $272,931 to Water Break Repair Expense Account 101.950.59800 to pay the City of Columbus for water line repairs. Elmore reported water breaks increased from 40 in 2023 to 92 last year; the youngest pipe is 61 years old, some lines date to 1928, and the city has about 350,000 linear feet of water line with about six replaced in the past three years. Introduced and seconded for adoption on November 4, 2026. - Ordinance 111-2026: Supplemental appropriation of $40,000 to Building Lot Maintenance Expense Account 101.950.53300 for city hall interior and exterior expenses, including carpet and LPT replacement after basement flooding from a major storm. Elmore said the funds will finish out 2026 and are separate from water break repair. Introduced and seconded for adoption on November 4, 2026. - Ordinance 092-2026 (third reading), creating Chapter 170 to establish minimum city contract awards to minority businesses, was postponed to November 4, 2026; Attorney Nicodemus is working on it. Other Standing Committee Reports - Community and Elder Advocacy: No drafts or pending legislation. Chairperson Harcar thanked ODVN and noted October is both Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. - Community Standards and Enforcement: No drafts or pending legislation. - Economic Development: No drafts or pending legislation; Councilor McCann opened the committee in the chair's absence. - Infrastructure, Maintenance and Services: No drafts or pending legislation. Members discussed ongoing road and waterline construction; Hamilton Road/Fairway Boulevard to Broad Street will have a temporary surface over the winter with final paving in the spring, and two lanes will be open by winter. A councilor asked about the new restaurant expected to serve a Swiss mushroom burger; site development and entitlements are still in progress. - Public Safety: No drafts or pending legislation. Members reminded residents to be careful near construction zones, noted a vehicle had driven into a construction zone at night, and urged extra caution during trick-or-treat on Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. - Parks and Recreation: No drafts or pending legislation. Key Outcomes - All five draft legislative items received first readings and were introduced and seconded, with suspension and adoption scheduled for November 4, 2026: Resolutions 045-2026 and 046-2026, and Ordinances 109-2026, 110-2026, and 111-2026. - Ordinance 092-2026 remains postponed to November 4, 2026. - Council discussed, but took no formal action on, the prior meeting's conduct incident. - The meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m.

A brief agenda meeting was called to order at 6:31 p.m., and the regular Whitehall City Council meeting convened at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in the Council Chamber at City Hall. All seven council members were present. The council approved prior minutes, heard public comment, postponed the minority business contracting ordinance, adopted all fiscal measures except one, and defeated a conflict-of-interest and ethics disclosure ordinance. The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:59 p.m. Call to Order, Roll Call, and Minutes - President Patricia Balser called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. after a moment of silence and the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call showed all members present: Lori Elmore, Larry Morrison, Amy Harcar, Mike Adkins, Brian McCann, Gerald Dixon, and Devin Brown. - All members verified they had received copies of the legislation on the agenda. - Minutes of the October 6, 2026 agenda/regular meeting and the October 13, 2026 committee meeting were approved unanimously. Standing Committee Reports - All seven standing committees reported that they met the prior week; no committee legislation was pending on the regular agenda. Each committee planned to meet again on October 27, 2026. - Councilor Harcar noted that the first QPR suicide prevention training was held the day before the meeting and thanked members and residents who attended. Officials' Reports - Mayor Michael T. Bivens, Economic Development Director Jackie Russell, Public Safety Director Van Gregg, and Neighborhoods Director Chet Ridenour were absent. - Auditor Shaquille Alexander had no formal report but encouraged council members to ask questions. City Attorney Bradley Nicodemus, Treasurer Janell Luke, and Public Service Director Casey Rowlands had brief reports or none. - Rowlands encouraged residents to continue using the 'see something, say something' reporting tool and praised the completed wall at Aetna and Robinwood. - Filed reports included the Auditor's September income tax, General Fund, and spending summary and the Auditor's September Financial Report. No communications, petitions, or claims were filed. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Butler, a Whitehall resident, submitted a written statement read by President Balser and later by Councilor Harcar. He expressed concern about child sexual abuse grooming, said adults should recognize warning signs, and reported that he has trained more than 10,000 adults and authored abuse-prevention policies for the Catholic Diocese of Columbus. He said a Whitehall Division of Police investigative report concerning Council Member Dixon contained patterns matching grooming warning signs, and he urged council members to review the report, publicly address its concerns, and uphold the integrity of local government. He said the question is not only criminal guilt but whether the conduct described is consistent with the integrity expected of an officeholder, and he called it 'a question of public responsibility.' - Greg Farnsworth, a Whitehall resident and president of the Rams Booster Club, announced a toy drive at Friday's conference championship football game against Columbus Academy, sponsored by Heartland Bank. Unwrapped toys of any age range will be donated to the Aetna breakfast-with-Santa program; the goal is about 200 toys. Donations can also be made by QR code, and he asked council members and residents to spread the word. - Anna Peters, a Whitehall resident, praised the Founders Day event, the historical timeline, and the strong turnout of city leadership. - Michael Spicer, a Whitehall resident, expressed concern that some council members voted no on Ordinance 089-2026, saying the vote appeared to reject accountability and transparency. He noted that some members frequently speak about transparency and ethics. Discussion Items Third Reading - Ordinance 089-2026: Conflict of Interest, Financial Disclosure, and Ethics Training Process (Failed) - The ordinance would create Chapter 195 of the Whitehall Codified Ordinances to establish an annual conflict-of-interest financial disclosure and ethics training acknowledgment process for office holders. - A motion to amend, made by Councilor Brown and seconded by Councilor Harcar, passed unanimously, 7-0. - A motion to adopt the ordinance as amended, made by Brown and seconded by Harcar, failed 3-4. Voting yes: Elmore, Harcar, and Brown. Voting no: Morrison, Adkins, McCann, and Dixon. - After the vote, Brown thanked Auditor Alexander for his work. Auditor Alexander said he hoped to direct future questions about the ordinance to council because 'talk is cheap' and no one had called him with suggestions. Morrison said he did not appreciate being chastised for his vote. Harcar asked about negative implications, and Alexander declined to answer again. President Balser called the criticism of a vote 'ridiculous' and 'unprofessional' and moved the meeting on. Third Reading - Ordinance 092-2026: Minority Business Contracting Ordinance (Postponed) - The ordinance would create Chapter 170 of the codified ordinances to establish minimum city contract awards to minority businesses. - Councilor Elmore moved, with a second from Councilor McCann, to postpone it until November 4, 2026. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0. First Reading and Suspension of Rules: Fiscal Measures (all passed 7-0) For each item, council suspended the rules and adopted the legislation on the same evening by unanimous roll call. - Ordinance 101-2026: Authorized transfer from Whitehall Municipal Public Improvement Tax Increment Equivalent Fund 279 to Debt Service Fund 401 for debt service due December 1, 2026 on obligations payable from tax increment revenues. Introduced by Elmore, second by Morrison. - Ordinance 102-2026: Authorized supplemental appropriation in Water Utility Fund 841 and transfer to Debt Service Fund 401 for Ohio Water Development Authority loan debt service due January 1, 2027 on the 2023 water main replacement. Introduced by Elmore, second by McCann. - Ordinance 103-2026: Authorized supplemental appropriation in Sewer Utility Fund 840 and transfer to Debt Service Fund 401 for OWDA loan debt service due January 1, 2027 on sanitary sewer rehabilitation. Introduced by Elmore, second by Adkins. - Ordinance 104-2026: Authorized transfer from General Fund 101 to Debt Service Fund 401 for general and special obligation debt service due December 1, 2026. Introduced by Elmore, second by Harcar. - Ordinance 105-2026: Authorized transfer from Police Department Tax Levy Fund 280 to Debt Service Fund 401 for debt service due December 1, 2026 on capital facilities bonds for the police division expansion. Introduced by Elmore, second by Morrison. - Ordinance 106-2026: Ratified appropriation transfers totaling $44,100 within General Fund 101 and Street Maintenance and Repair Fund 201 executed during fiscal year 2026 under Ordinance 069-2016; declared an emergency. Introduced by Elmore, second by McCann. - Ordinance 107-2026: Amended Chapter 135 to revise General Fund transfer percentages, establish a new transfer structure for Fleet Reserve and Maintenance Fund 313, and repeal Technology Fund 314 and Lifecycle Replacement Fund 315 as information technology operations return to General Fund 101. Introduced by Elmore, second by Brown. Councilor Elmore explained the change affects end-of-month transfers, with Fund 313 covering fleet maintenance for parks, service, and police, and Funds 314 and 315 related to technology. - Ordinance 108-2026: Authorized a $3,000 transfer from the part-time prosecutor account 101.500.51200 to the attorney office intern account 101.500.51850; declared an emergency. Introduced by Elmore, second by Morrison. - Resolution 044-2026: Approved 'then and now' certificates. Introduced by Elmore, second by Dixon. Community Date Board and Council Comments - Council members praised Founders Day, thanked organizers and attendees, and encouraged participation in Barktober on Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the dog park and in Friday's football game and toy drive. - Several councilors addressed the failed ethics ordinance and the public comments about Council Member Dixon. Elmore said 'let your yes be yes and your no be no' and that votes do not require public explanation. Harcar said votes are each member's choice but members should own consequences. McCann said he voted no because state requirements already hold the city accountable, and he had suggested changes that were not incorporated. He also said none of the 11 warning behaviors described had been proven or resulted in a guilty finding. Dixon said he learned in Whitehall schools that people are innocent until proven guilty and that accusers bear the burden of proof. Brown said he and two other councilors had run on transparency and had made themselves available to work on the ordinance; he warned of possible financial or bond-rating implications and yielded his remaining time. President Balser ruled Brown out of order as the exchange grew heated. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 089-2026 failed as amended by a vote of 3 yes to 4 no. - Ordinance 092-2026 was postponed to November 4, 2026 by unanimous vote. - All first-reading fiscal ordinances and Resolution 044-2026 passed unanimously after suspension of the rules. - Prior meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - There was no second-reading legislation on the agenda.

Whitehall City Council met in committee on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. The Administration and Financial Management Committee reviewed draft legislation on debt-service transfers, “then and now” certificates, ethics disclosures, and minority business contracting. Other standing committees reported no pending legislation and gave community updates. No public comments were heard. Committee of the Whole – Third Reading - Ordinance 089-2026, requiring financial disclosure and ethics training for office holders, was postponed to October 20, 2026. City Auditor Shaquille Alexander said the amended draft incorporates recommendations from Alan West of the outside audit firm and would require an annual disclosure of business interests, board memberships, and employment that could create conflicts. He said the filing location can be determined by Council and recommended the ordinance pass. Administration and Financial Management – Debt Service Transfers and Certificates - Ordinance 101-2026: transfer $141,903.75 from the Municipal Public Improvement Tax Increment Equivalent Fund (279) to the Debt Service Fund (401) for Dec. 1, 2026 debt service on the 2014 Streetscape Bonds, 2014 Land Acquisition Bonds, and 2016 Special Obligation Nontax Revenue Bonds. - Ordinance 102-2026: supplemental appropriation and transfer of $457,372.37 from the Water Utility Fund (841) for OWDA Loan No. 10603 (2023 Water Main Replacement) debt service due Jan. 1, 2027. - Ordinance 103-2026: supplemental appropriation and transfer of $40,715.88 from the Sewer Utility Fund (840) for OWDA Loan No. 11104 (Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation) debt service due Jan. 1, 2027. - Ordinance 104-2026: transfer of $765,355.24 from the General Fund (101) to the Debt Service Fund (401), applying an existing $99,109.76 balance toward $864,465.00 of general obligation and special obligation debt service due Dec. 1, 2026. - Ordinance 105-2026: transfer of $466,262.50 from the Police Department Tax Levy Fund (280) for capital facilities bond debt service tied to the police division expansion, due Dec. 1, 2026. - Resolution 044-2026: approval of “then and now” certificates of $3,000 or more, as required by Ohio Revised Code 5705.41(D)(1). - Auditor Alexander explained that debt-service legislation is routinely requested for first reading to allow time for journal entries, purchase orders, Board of Control approval, check runs, and year-end/holiday/vacation scheduling. Council members acknowledged the explanation. Minority Business Contracting Ordinance - Ordinance 092-2026, creating Chapter 170 and establishing minimum city contract awards to minority businesses, was postponed to November 3, 2026. Auditor Alexander expressed support for the legislation’s intent but raised concerns about tax confidentiality, definitions, eligibility periods, deadlines, appropriations, and administrative workload, citing input from the Deputy Tax Commissioner. The city attorney was on vacation and the economic development director was on leave, prompting the postponement. Additional Auditor Updates - The Auditor described a planned change to the general fund’s monthly percentage transfers: IT operations would return to the General Fund, and the fleet reserve maintenance fund rate would move to an average of 1.84% (from 1.5% last year), front-loaded over six months. The related legislation is expected to come for third reading on November 17, with a January 1 effective date. - The Auditor requested first reading for a future ordinance ending the 2016-approved practice of transfers under $5,000 between accounts within the same fund, a practice the independent auditor recommended stopping. He clarified it would not change total appropriations, only account-line allocations. - He noted the Mayor’s budget will be presented in three to four weeks and that 2027 will contain 27 pay periods. Projected labor-cost growth is 5.5%, with 3.27 percentage points attributable to the extra pay period. Standing Committee Reports - Community and Elder Advocacy: No legislation. Chairperson Harcar recognized Domestic Violence Awareness Month, discussed the well-attended 5K, and encouraged Council participation in QPR suicide-prevention training. - Community Standards and Enforcement: No legislation. Chairperson McCann reported a weekend vehicle crash into a home on Elburn and Pineview; no fatalities, one person injured and recovering. Council will consult police reports about repeated speed/curve incidents in that area. - Economic Development: No legislation; director was out on leave. - Infrastructure, Maintenance and Services: No legislation. - Public Safety: No legislation; will examine the Elburn/Pineview road issue with the police department. - Parks and Recreation: No legislation. Chairperson Adkins highlighted Founders Day, praised the Parks and Recreation team for the 5K, noted the first Meskel celebration held in Whitehall, and promoted upcoming fall events. Key Outcomes - Postponed Ordinance 089-2026 to October 20, 2026. - Postponed Ordinance 092-2026 to November 3, 2026. - Gave first reading to Ordinances 101-2026, 102-2026, 103-2026, 104-2026, and 105-2026 and Resolution 044-2026, scheduling them for suspension and adoption on October 20, 2026. - No other standing committee legislation was pending.

The Whitehall City Council held its agenda meeting at 6:31 p.m. and its regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, in the Council Chamber at City Hall. Council approved prior meeting minutes, honored a 25-year city employee, heard financial and departmental updates, and adopted all voting legislation on the agenda, including traffic changes, supplemental appropriations, a tobacco license settlement, and a public safety grant resolution. The meeting adjourned at 9:16 p.m. Administrative Items - Roll call was taken; Councilmember Harcar was absent for portions of the meeting after the initial roll call. - Council approved the September 15, 2026 agenda and regular meeting minutes and the September 22, 2026 committee meeting minutes. Motion by Councilmember Dixon, second by Councilmember McCann; all recorded votes were yes. - Each council member confirmed receipt of all agenda legislation before the meeting. - No communications, petitions, or claims were filed. The auditor's August income tax/general fund/spending summary and August financial report were filed in the council office. Special Presentation - Auditor Shaquille Alexander and Mayor Michael T. Bivens honored Deputy Tax Commissioner Michelle Carberry for 25 years of service from September 4, 2001 to September 4, 2026. Carberry was promoted to tax account supervisor and employee benefit specialist in 2004 and became deputy tax commissioner on February 1, 2007. Mayor Bivens proclaimed September 4 as Michelle Carberry Day in Whitehall. Resolution 041-2026, adopted later in the meeting, formally commended her service. Standing Committee Reports - Administration and Financial Management (Elmore): met last week; minutes on file; will meet again next week. - Community and Elder Advocacy (Harcar absent; Adkins reported): met last week; minutes on file. - Community Standards and Enforcement (McCann): met last week; two adoption items and one first reading on the agenda; will meet next Tuesday. - Economic Development (Dixon): met two weeks ago; minutes on file; will meet next week after 6:30 p.m. - Infrastructure, Maintenance, and Services (Brown): met on September 22; has legislation on the agenda; asked residents to report speeding locations and times; will meet next Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. - Public Safety (Morrison): met a few weeks ago; minutes on file; will meet next week after 6:30 p.m. - Parks and Recreation (Adkins): met two weeks ago; no agenda items; minutes on file; will meet next Tuesday. Officials' Reports - Mayor Bivens proclaimed October 2026 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. He noted purple flags along the Link, invited residents to the third annual domestic violence awareness 5K on Saturday, October 10, and announced the first Founders Day with the Whitehall Historical Society on Sunday, October 18. He also highlighted the September 26 Meskel celebration at Whitehall Community Park, estimated at 500 to 1,000 Whitehall residents among thousands of attendees, and an October 3 citywide prayer walk in five sectors with about 300 residents. He welcomed new twins Rowan and Oakland to Economic Development Director Jackie Russell. - Auditor Alexander reported September income tax collections of about $2.97 million. He said collections were roughly 3.7 percent behind last year, approximately $900,000 to $1 million, largely because September 2025 had unusually high collections of almost $5 million; he expected improvement after the October 15 extended filing deadline. The general fund balance was $6.69 million at September 30 and about $7.1 million as of the meeting. The budget stabilization fund stood at $1.56 million, with a goal of about $2.2 million by year end. Spending remained controlled: police spending was $7.1 million versus $6.6 million the prior year, fire spending was up about 13 percent, and administrative and general government spending was down. He also reviewed the city's debt position, stating debt service was about 4.7 percent of general fund receipts, the city maintained an A credit rating, and $31.2 million in bonded debt was outstanding with a final maturity in 2053. - City Attorney Nicodemus answered questions about the Fairway litigation appeal, saying the court decision had implications beyond the plat approval and that the appeal was necessary to protect the city's right to self-governance. He said costs were not immediately available and the appeal timeline would likely be six to nine months for briefing and oral argument. He also confirmed the shared-use path project remains separate from the roadway project and is still moving forward. - Director of Public Service Rowlands said infrastructure projects are progressing but have encountered unexpected conditions because of old infrastructure; she expects to complete work before Thanksgiving. She requested favorable consideration of Ordinances 086-2026 and 087-2026 and said the Aetna Road extension is continuing as scheduled. - Director of Neighborhoods Ridenour announced the first Taste of Whitehall on Friday, November 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the YMCA; a Veterans Day banner project for November 11; the Mobile City Hall conversion of an old ambulance; and an emergency food box program launching October 25 at Faith Lutheran's trunk-or-treat and distributing to partners October 26. He also described plans for a helping hands pilot for elderly residents and upcoming community art shows. - Treasurer Janell Luke, Economic Development Director Jackie Russell, and Public Safety Director Van Gregg were absent. Public Comments & Testimony - Diane Peters, a Whitehall resident, spoke in favor of Ordinance 092-2026 on minimum city contract awards to minority businesses. She recounted her husband and Frank Watson being among the first two Black members of Local 189 plumbers and pipefitters in the 1970s, said federal requirements opened economic opportunity, and urged Whitehall to continue protecting minority business participation. - Michael Spicer, a Whitehall resident, spoke during the second public poll, saying it is his expectation as a constituent that council members research legislation, ask questions, and be knowledgeable before voting. Discussion Items - During the debate on Resolution 043-2026, councilmembers disagreed about whether administration officials should appear in person to explain first-reading legislation. Councilmember Morrison said last-minute first readings make advance research difficult and that public questions help everyone. Councilmember Dixon said the council deserves the respect of having the requesting department present, especially when asked to suspend rules. Councilmember Brown said council members can do due diligence before meetings and share answers publicly. Councilmember Elmore said the minority business ordinance is inclusive and will be discussed further in committee. Councilmember McCann and others also commented on process and upcoming community events. Legislation Third reading, adopted: - Ordinance 086-2026: amends the traffic code to add a stop sign at East Mound Street and Bernhard Road and create an all-ways stop intersection; declared an emergency. Passed. - Ordinance 087-2026: amends Traffic Schedule IV to update parking prohibited at all times locations; declared an emergency. Passed. Second reading, no action: - Ordinance 089-2026: amends Chapter 195 to require financial disclosure and ethics training for office holders. Read by title only. - Ordinance 092-2026: creates Chapter 170 contracting provisions and establishes minimum city contract awards to minority businesses. Read by title only. First reading, rules suspended and adopted: - Ordinance 095-2026: vacates an unused 10-foot-wide multi-use utility easement on city-owned land at Broad and Hamilton; declared an emergency. Passed. - Ordinance 096-2026: resolves a tobacco retail license appeal by granting a non-transferable license; if the owners sell, no new tobacco retail establishment may operate at that location; declared an emergency. Passed. - Ordinance 097-2026: appropriates $100,000 from the Technology Fund (314) to the IT maintenance contracts account for maintenance, licensing, and support through December 31, 2026; declared an emergency. Passed. - Ordinance 098-2026: appropriates $895,000 from the Self-Funded Insurance Trust Fund (511) for employee medical claims through December 31, 2026; declared an emergency. Passed. - Ordinance 099-2026: appropriates $40,000 from the General Fund, divided equally between the wellness expense account and HR wellness programs account; declared an emergency. Passed. - Ordinance 100-2026: transfers $6,000 within the General Fund, $2,000 each to the deputy auditor, payroll administrator, and deputy tax commissioner salary accounts; declared an emergency. Passed. - Resolution 041-2026: honors and commends Michelle Carberry for 25 years of city service. Passed. - Resolution 042-2026: amends Resolution 039-2026 to conform Schedule A to the Franklin County Budget Commission certified amounts and rates for tax year 2026, collection year 2027, and authorizes certification of tax levies. Passed. - Resolution 043-2026: authorizes the mayor to apply for, accept, and enter into a grant agreement for the FY 2026 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant local formula. The grant amount is $19,641, requires no match, and would fund open source intelligence and cyber threat intelligence platforms. Passed. Community Date Board - Early voting began October 6. Residents with tax return extensions face an October 15 filing deadline. - Whitehall's football team is 5-2; homecoming parade is Wednesday, with a pre-game band performance from 5 to 5:30 p.m. - Founders Day will be Sunday, October 18 at Whitehall Park, featuring a car show, bounce house, food trucks, local organizations, and a beer garden. Councilmember Comments - Brown: congratulated Carberry; welcomed cultural events; cautioned that minority-owned business status does not guarantee a minority workforce; encouraged residents to attend community events. - Elmore: praised the Meskel and citywide prayer events; supported Carberry; said Ordinance 092-2026 is inclusive and not exclusionary; invited questions before committee. - Morrison: said administration should limit last-minute first readings; asked that public officials be present to explain legislation; called for dialogue in open session. - Adkins: thanked attendees and the auditor; suggested council needs a solution for reviewing legislation. - McCann: announced a community conversation day on November 12 at 6:30 p.m.; thanked Director Ridenour for involving him in the Veterans Day banner project; thanked Councilmember Harcar for suicide prevention and veterans work. - Dixon: thanked attendees and congratulated Director Russell on the birth of her twins. - Balser: encouraged councilmembers to share answers to questions they receive before meetings. Key Outcomes - Council adopted all 11 voting items on the agenda: Ordinances 086-2026, 087-2026, 095-2026 through 100-2026, and Resolutions 041-2026 through 043-2026. All recorded roll call votes were yes. - Ordinance 089-2026 and Ordinance 092-2026 remain in second reading for further committee discussion. - The city attorney will provide information on Fairway appeal costs and issues once records are pulled. - Upcoming events include the domestic violence awareness 5K on October 10, Founders Day on October 18, Taste of Whitehall on November 6, Veterans Day banner activities on November 11, and Councilmember McCann's community conversation on November 12.

The Whitehall City Council held a committee meeting on September 22, 2026, beginning at 6:30 PM. The meeting featured a presentation and proclamation on Suicide Prevention Month, followed by discussions on two ordinances: one concerning financial disclosure and ethics training (postponed) and another establishing contracting provisions for minority business enterprises (MBEs). Council also heard updates from multiple committees and entered executive session to discuss economic development assistance. Presentation & Proclamation - Franklin County Suicide Prevention Team Presentation: Jessica Cannon, Director of the Franklin County Suicide Prevention Coalition (FCSPC), presented an overview of the coalition’s work, focusing on awareness, education, and partnerships. She highlighted six target populations at higher risk: Black/African American, youth, older adults, LGBTQIA+, veterans, and refugee/immigrant/new American communities. She left 988 crisis line cards and urged formal recognition of September as Suicide Prevention Month. - Pastor Howard Washington (Vice Chair of FCSPC and Pastor of Second Baptist Church) spoke from personal and pastoral experience, emphasizing the community's role in breaking silence around suicide and encouraging council to pass the proclamation. - Mayor Michael T. Bivens read a proclamation declaring September 2026 as Suicide Prevention Month in Whitehall, citing the importance of awareness, reducing stigma, and supporting those affected. Committee of the Whole – Second Reading (Postponed) - Ordinance 089-2026 – Amending Chapter 195 of the Whitehall Codified Ordinances requiring financial disclosure and ethics training for office holders. The ordinance was postponed until October 20, 2026. Councilmember Brown distributed a substitute draft for discussion, but several members noted they had not yet reviewed it. Auditor Alexander offered to meet with council members individually to discuss the draft before the next voting meeting. No action was taken. Standing Committees Administration and Financial Management – Chairperson Elmore - Ordinance 092-2026 (Second Reading, adopt 10/20/2026) – Creating Chapter 170 to establish minimum city contract awards to minority businesses. A lengthy discussion ensued: - Councilmember Elmore summarized responses to previous questions, stating the legislation is not about racial quotas but follows Ohio state certification definitions for Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs). She provided data from the 2024 Annual Business Survey for Ohio. - Economic Development Director Jackie Russell clarified that the proposed incentive (25% or up to $50,000 reimbursement of income tax withholding) is a municipal cash incentive, not a state job creation tax credit. It aims to incentivize general contractors to partner with MBEs. - Councilmember Dixon expressed concerns about using public funds for incentives, noting that residents have complained about tax abatements and TIFs diverting money from schools and city coffers. He questioned whether a mandatory set-aside (without incentives) could be enacted. - Councilmember Morrison and Director Russell argued that a mandatory set-aside might deter contractors, leading to fewer bids and potential project delays, which could also upset residents. They stated the city already encourages MBE participation but sees little uptake, hence the incentive approach. - Councilmember Dixon asked for financial modeling to project the cost of the incentive; Auditor Alexander said such data is unavailable because the city does not track contractor payrolls. He suggested looking at historical capital project totals for broad estimates. - Councilmember Harcar appreciated the thoughtful conversation and supported the incentive as a way to break down barriers for minority businesses. - Chairperson Elmore left the committee open for further questions; the ordinance will receive a third reading on October 20. - Two add-on appropriations were presented for first reading (to be adopted October 6): 1. Transferring $6,000 within the General Fund for auditor’s office salary accounts (emergency). 2. Supplemental appropriation of $40,000 from unappropriated General Fund monies to split between a wellness expense account and an HR wellness programs account (emergency). Community and Elder Advocacy – Chairperson Harcar - No pending legislation. Chairperson Harcar announced an upcoming QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training for council members (not a public meeting). She also offered to host training sessions for residents and encouraged use of the 988 crisis line. Community Standards and Enforcement – Chairperson Dixon (acting for absent McCann) - Ordinance 086-2026 (Third Reading, adopt 10/6/2026) – Adding a stop sign at East Mound Street and Bernhard Road, creating an all-way stop (emergency). No discussion. - Ordinance 087-2026 (Third Reading, adopt 10/6/2026) – Amending parking prohibited at all times schedule (emergency). No discussion. Infrastructure, Maintenance and Services – Chairperson Brown - No pending legislation. Chairperson Brown reminded the public to report speeding issues via the city’s “See Something, Say Something” webpage. Councilmember Morrison encouraged incorporating traffic calming measures into future road projects. Chairperson Brown noted that some projects were designed before his tenure, making changes difficult. Public Safety – Chairperson Morrison - No pending legislation. Committee closed. Parks and Recreation – Chairperson Adkins - No pending legislation. Chairperson Adkins promoted upcoming boxing classes and the “Upper Run” 5K on October 10. Economic Development – Chairperson Dixon - No pending legislation. Chairperson Dixon mentioned an Urban Land Institute (ULI) “Urban Plan” training that uses Lego models to teach about development finance and trade-offs. He plans to arrange a session for council to better understand development processes. Director Russell reiterated that Whitehall has a healthy development pipeline and asked council to help correct the perception that businesses do not want to locate in Whitehall. Executive Session - At 8:24 PM, council voted unanimously (7-0) to enter executive session under ORC 121.22(G)(8) to discuss confidential information related to economic development assistance (marketing plans, business strategy, trade secrets, or personal financial statements). Invited participants included the mayor, Economic Development Director, Auditor, Director of Public Service, Clerk, and bond counsel. The session concluded at 10:22 PM; no action was taken in public after. Key Outcomes - Mayor Bivens proclaimed September 2026 as Suicide Prevention Month. - Ordinance 089-2026 (financial disclosure) postponed to October 20; a substitute draft is circulating for review. - Ordinance 092-2026 (minority business contracting) will have its third reading on October 20; council will continue reviewing financial implications and may request modeling. - Two add-on appropriations (salary transfers and wellness funding) will be up for adoption on October 6. - Traffic ordinances (086-2026 and 087-2026) will be adopted on October 6. - Executive session held; no public decisions resulted. - Chairperson Harcar will schedule QPR suicide prevention training for council members.

The Whitehall City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall. President Patricia Balser presided. Roll call showed all seven council members present: Gerald Dixon, Devin Brown, Lori Elmore, Larry Morrison, Amy Harcar, Mike Adkins, and Brian McCann. The meeting included approval of minutes, standing committee and officials' reports, extensive public testimony, and action on multiple pieces of legislation. A notable discussion centered on Ordinance 89-2026, which proposes a local financial disclosure and ethics training process, ultimately postponed to a future meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the September 1, 2026, Agenda & Regular Meeting and the September 8, 2026, Committee Meeting were approved unanimously (7-0) on a motion by Councilor Dixon, seconded by Councilor Adkins. Public Comments & Testimony Several residents addressed the council during the two public comment periods (Poll Public). Summaries are as follows: - Mike Cole Spicer: Expressed support for Ordinance 89-2026, stating that leadership requires accountability, and praised Auditor Alexander and Treasurer Luke for their work. Also thanked Director Rollins for infrastructure improvements and noted the need for temporary inconvenience for long-term benefit. - Shannon (last name not given): Urged the council to accept the Franklin County Common Pleas Court decision regarding Fairway Close (dated September 3, 2026) and to stop any taxpayer-funded appeals. Argued the preliminary plat approval was unlawful, violated zoning codes and the comprehensive plan, and that the meeting violated Ohio Open Meetings Act. Stated that the community overwhelmingly rejected the development in a November 2025 referendum. - Unnamed speaker (second public commenter): Expressed frustration, stating the council's actions feel like a waste of time and resources and lacking integrity. - Kean Washington: Accused the council of lacking integrity, made personal criticisms, and urged respectful behavior. - Linda (last name not given): Thanked Mayor Bivens for disaster response, praised council members Harcar, Brown, and Elmore for supporting a candidate (Mr. Graham), expressed disappointment that two council members did not respond to her outreach, and criticized prejudice in Whitehall. - Paula Lee: Called for unity and civility, expressed hope for balanced government, and thanked the city for alley cleanup after storms. - Shirley Washington: Emphasized the need for unity and noted that September 15 is National Voter Registration Day. Raised a safety concern about exiting and entering Eastway on Broad Street due to dangerous curves. - A speaker representing Whitehall Historical Society: Promoted the inaugural Founders Day on October 18, 2026, at Whitehall City Park, and encouraged council members to join the Historical Society. - A speaker (male): Urged council to get to know residents better and be more approachable. - Diane Peters: Asked for forgiveness and reminded council to care for all residents, including the poor, and to unite the community. - Written Poll Public from Jeff Thilburn: Opposed Ordinance 89-2026, arguing it creates unnecessary bureaucracy, potential political weaponization, and conflict of interest. - Written Poll Public from Steve Quinzel (former auditor): Supported the ordinance, noting it responds to an auditor recommendation and that ignoring it could escalate. - Written Poll Public from Lyle Moeller: Supported Ordinance 89-2026, emphasizing the need for a formal disclosure process to strengthen internal controls. Discussion Items - Standing Committee Reports: Chairs of six committees (Administration & Financial Management, Community & Elder Advocacy, Community Standards & Enforcement, Economic Development, Infrastructure Maintenance & Services, Public Safety, Parks & Recreation) gave brief updates. Notable: Chairperson Brown reported that the Broad and Hamilton project is expected to be wrapped up by November, and Broad Street Phase 4 will see temporary paving on the north side through winter, with final paving in spring. He also reminded residents to report speeding issues and thanked volunteers for the Whitehall Ward Waste program sign-ups. - Officials' Reports: - Mayor Michael T. Bivens: Announced budget season is underway, with an open and transparent process. Congratulated Director Rollins and Natia Hinton for the disaster relief fund's success. Promoted the first Founders Day on October 18. Acknowledged the resignation of Gerald Wright as Director of Neighborhoods and introduced his replacement, Chet Ridenour. - City Auditor Shaquille Alexander: Presented financial highlights: income tax revenue through August 31, 2026, is $23.9 million (largest on record), up from $21.3 million in 2025. General fund balance is $8.4 million, up $1 million year-over-year. Spending is controlled at 61% of budget (64% including encumbrances); police and fire spending increased, while other departmental spending decreased. Then gave a detailed explanation of Ordinance 89-2026, emphasizing it was triggered by an auditor recommendation to establish a formal conflict-of-interest disclosure process. He clarified that the ordinance does not create new penalties beyond existing state law, does not empower the auditor to prosecute, and is one part of a broader response to audit findings. He urged council to consider the legislation carefully and offered to amend penalty provisions if needed. - City Treasurer Janell Luke: Supported the ordinance from a compliance perspective, emphasizing that good internal controls are not personal and should outlast any officeholder. Noted that Columbus has had a similar process since 2016. - Director of Public Service Casey Rollins: Updated that work on Dony Street will resume after a water break repair, and suggested alternate routes to avoid congestion on Yearling Road. - Director of Economic Development Jackie Russell: Noted this was her last meeting before maternity leave (expecting twins) and that she would be out until November or December. - Director of Public Safety Van Gregg: Not present. - Director of Neighborhoods Chet Ridenour: Introduced himself on his fifth day in the role. Shared his background in community organizing, micromobility, and strategic partnerships. Outlined his vision for the Department of Neighborhoods to strengthen social connections through block-level events, micro-grants, and toolkits. He emphasized listening and learning from residents and working with council. He mentioned joining EMS on a run and helping a Spanish-speaking resident at City Hall. - Legislation – Second Readings (Ordinances 86-2026 and 87-2026, traffic/parking): Passed as part of consent? Actually, they were under second reading but no vote was taken in the transcript? Wait: the agenda shows second reading, but the transcript moves from second reading to first reading. Then the council votes on suspension and adoption for first readings. For second readings, there is no vote recorded. Likely they were passed without opposition. To be safe, we note they were introduced but no vote captured. - Legislation – First Readings (Ordinances 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, Resolution 40): - Ordinance 89-2026 (Financial disclosure and ethics training): After extensive discussion, Councilor Brown moved to postpone to October 20, 2026, for three readings. Seconded by Councilor Harcar. Postpone passed 6-1 (Councilor Dixon voted no). The ordinance will receive a second reading on October 6 and third reading on October 20. - Ordinance 90-2026 (Amending Ordinance 73-2026 regarding changes to 161.38): Suspension of rules and adoption passed unanimously (7-0). - Ordinance 91-2026 ($18,000 supplemental appropriation for labor relations): Suspension and adoption passed unanimously. - Ordinance 92-2026 (Creating Chapter 170 for minority business contract awards): Read by title only; no vote was taken in the transcript. It may have been deferred or not acted upon during this meeting. - Ordinance 93-2026 (Transfer of $49,840.89 from Columbus Blue Jacket Grant Fund 204 to General Fund, and closure of fund): Suspension and adoption passed unanimously. Councilor Elmore explained the funds were leftover from a 2022 grant and would reimburse the general fund for expenses. - Ordinance 94-2026 (Authorizing mayor to contract with Public Entities Pool of Ohio for insurance): Suspension and adoption passed unanimously. - Resolution 40-2026 (Approve “Then and Now” certificates): Suspension and adoption passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Unanimously. - Ordinances 90, 91, 93, 94, and Resolution 40: All passed unanimously on suspension of rules and adoption. - Ordinance 89-2026: Postponed to October 20, 2026, for three readings (vote 6-1). The ordinance will be further discussed and potentially amended. - Ordinance 92-2026: Read by title only; no vote recorded. Likely will be considered at a future meeting. - Community Announcements: Founders Day on October 18; Purple Run 5K on October 10; disaster relief applications still open; encouragement for voter registration. - Meeting Adjourned: At 9:24 p.m.

The Whitehall City Council convened on September 1, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber for a special process to nominate, debate, and appoint a new Council President following a vacancy. The meeting was chaired by Treasurer Janell Luke, who served as a neutral facilitator under adopted rules. After multiple rounds of nominations, debate, and voting, Patricia Balzer was elected as the new Council President. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were discussed during the portion of the meeting captured in the transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were taken during the nomination and debate process, as the adopted rules required non-candidate members of the public to move to the viewing area in the lobby during candidate speeches and council debate. Discussion Items - Adoption of Rules for the Nomination Process: Council members discussed and clarified the rules governing the nomination, debate, and appointment of a Council President. Key points included: speaking time limits, disqualification for interruption or refusal to speak, the role of the chair (Ms. Luke), media presence, and the order of debate (by seniority, then alphabetically). After questions and clarifications, the rules were adopted unanimously (all council members voted yes: McCann, Dixon, Brown, Elmore, Morrison, Harcar, Adkins). - Nomination of Candidates: The chair called forward six individuals who had previously submitted resumes/letters of interest: John Paul Long, Patricia Balzer, Jim Graham, Robert Vogel, Glena Henson, and Larry Morrison. Each was given three minutes to address council. - John Paul Long spoke about his leadership experience, including union stewardship and production planning at Kroger, and emphasized impartiality and civility. - Patricia Balzer shared her community involvement (organizing a petition regarding Bishop Park), career as a kitchen designer and business owner, and experience raising a diverse family. She stressed listening, problem-solving, and bringing people together. - Jim Graham noted his 55 years in Whitehall, 8 years as council-at-large and 8 years as council president, and his belief in teamwork and impartial chairing. - Robert Vogel referenced his 8 years as council president and his experience running a trucking business; he emphasized the president’s role as acting mayor. - Glena Henson highlighted her long history of volunteering, service on Parks and Recreation Council, and previous council tenure. She called for pulling people together and remembering past leaders. - Larry Morrison, current council-at-large and president pro tem, described his 40+ years in Whitehall, union leadership, BZBA and planning commission service, and his desire to continue serving. - Formal Nominations and Closing: Council members formally nominated Larry Morrison, Jim Graham, Patricia Balzer, and John Paul Long. A motion to close nominations passed (supermajority, 5 votes). Robert Vogel and Glena Henson then exited to the viewing area as per rules. - First Round of Debate and Voting: Each council member had 10 minutes to ask questions and debate. Key questions centered on separation of powers, impartiality, council operations, challenges, community involvement, and ability to remain neutral. Questions were posed to all four nominees by various council members. After debate, a vote was conducted: Jim Graham received 3 votes, Larry Morrison received 3 votes, Patricia Balzer received 1 vote, and John Paul Long received 0 votes. No nominee received a majority, so a second round proceeded. - Second Round of Debate and Voting: The advancing nominees (Jim Graham, Larry Morrison, Patricia Balzer) each received 2 additional minutes to speak, and council members each received 5 additional minutes. During this round, council members continued questioning, focusing on teamwork, impartiality, economic development, Robert’s Rules, and the nominee’s ability to work with the administration. Patricia Balzer was asked about her role in the recall effort against the mayor and her ability to remain neutral; she stated she would prioritize the job and be “Switzerland.” After debate, a second vote was taken: Patricia Balzer received 4 votes (Dixon, Morrison, McCann, Atkins), Jim Graham received 3 votes (Elmore, Harcar, Brown). Patricia Balzer was declared the winner and appointed Council President. - Swearing-In: Following the vote, the public was invited back into the chambers, and a swearing-in ceremony for the new Council President was initiated. The live stream experienced a brief technical issue that was addressed. Key Outcomes - Adoption of Rules: Unanimously approved (7–0) to govern the nomination process. - Appointment of Council President: Patricia Balzer was elected Council President by a vote of 4–3 over Jim Graham (with Larry Morrison and John Paul Long eliminated in the first round). She was immediately sworn in. - Next Steps: The meeting was to proceed with the remaining agenda items (including third reading of Resolution No. 034-2026 and first readings of ordinances) after the swearing-in.

The Whitehall City Council Committee of the Whole met on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 6:41 PM. The central focus was the adoption of detailed temporary rules, proposed by City Attorney Bradley S. Nicodemus, to select a new Council President. Council also advanced several pieces of draft legislation, discussed widespread flooding impacts, and addressed traffic safety concerns. Council President Selection Process - Proposal: City Attorney Nicodemus proposed temporary rules modeled on 1800s presidential nominating conventions and congressional hearings to break an impasse on the selection. - Process Rules: Candidates must submit interest by September 1 at noon. Nominees will speak for three minutes. Council members will have structured debate time and voting will proceed in rounds until a majority is achieved. A remote option is available for qualifying candidates. - Amendments: Council voted 6-1 to automatically disqualify candidates who do not speak. The audience will be relocated to the lobby to watch the interview process via livestream. Consent Calendar - Draft 1 (Res. 039-2026): Accepting amounts and rates for tax levies as determined by the Budget Commission. Advanced to first reading. - Draft 2 (Ord. 084-2026): Transfer of $57,920.89 from General Fund (101) to Debt Service Fund (401) for the Woodcliff FCIB Loan payment. Advanced to first reading. - Draft 3 (Ord. 085-2026): Transfer of $68,576.09 from General Fund (101) to Debt Service Fund (401) for the HPCC City Facilities lease payment. Advanced to first reading. - Draft 4 (Ord. 086-2026): Authorizing stop signs at E Mound Street and Bernhard Road to create an all-way stop. Advanced to third reading. - Draft 5 (Ord. 087-2026): Prohibiting parking on sections of St. Rita Lane. Advanced to third reading. - Res. 034-2026: Authorizing a Community Reinvestment Area agreement with APHC of Central Ohio. Advanced to third reading. Discussion Items - Flooding Infrastructure: Councilman Dixon raised concerns about repeated basement flooding from severe storms. Director of Public Service Rowlands stated the city is collecting damage data to map problem areas and is working with engineers on solutions. City Auditor Alexander reported the General Fund is at $7.13 million with debt service at 3.47% of expenses, allowing flexibility for infrastructure needs. Council discussed forming a subcommittee to investigate, with an emphasis on coordinating with the administration. - Traffic Safety: Council discussed the need for detailed resident data on speeding to make informed decisions. A parking concern on Hamilton Road during school hours is being investigated by the school resource officer. Key Outcomes - Council President Selection: Council voted 7-0 to adopt the temporary selection rules as amended. - Legislation: All five draft pieces of legislation and the resolution were advanced to their respective readings (first or third) for the September 1 council meeting. - Flooding Data Collection: Council directed continued data collection and coordination with the administration on a subcommittee to study flooding. - Public Safety: Acknowledged memorial events for Officer Terry McDowell. New Police Officer Sean Gary starts August 31, 2026.

This special meeting of the Whitehall City Council was called to order at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, in the Council Chamber at City Hall. The sole agenda item was the first reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 083-2026, which transfers $150,000 from unappropriated General Fund monies to the Community Development Trust Fund and subsequently appropriates that amount to the Community Disaster Relief Expense Account, declaring an emergency. All seven council members were present. The meeting adjourned at 6:38 p.m. Discussion Items - Ordinance No. 083-2026 – Community Disaster Relief Fund Transfer - Mayor introduced the ordinance and moved for suspension of the rules, seconded by Councilor Brown. The motion passed unanimously. - Mayor explained that the ordinance provides $150,000 in disaster relief funds for residents affected by recent storms, noting he initially proposed $100,000 but increased the amount to $150,000 after the auditor confirmed room in the budget. He publicly thanked the auditor for guidance. - Council members expressed strong support. One councilor highlighted that residents have already reported storm damage that aligns with the ordinance's purpose and praised the quick action. Another noted the funds will not cover all expenses but constitute significant help and urged the community to spread awareness. A third councilor thanked the mayor for providing a seven-page legislative report and for moving swiftly. - The ordinance was adopted unanimously after a roll call vote (7-0). Key Outcomes - Ordinance No. 083-2026 was adopted (7-0) with an emergency clause, authorizing the transfer of $150,000 from the General Fund to the Community Development Trust Fund and its appropriation to the Community Disaster Relief Expense Account. The funds will be administered through the Public Service Department, and application instructions will be made available to the public by the following morning. - Council directed staff to disseminate information about the relief program via social media and other channels to ensure residents in need can apply.