Public Meetings - Whitehall, Ohio

The Whitehall City Council Committee met on May 26, 2026, at 6:30 PM to discuss the city's financial status, proposed rules of procedure changes, and eight pieces of draft legislation. Key topics included a strong financial report, a deer feeding ban, drive-through safety standards, and a new state law restricting transparency on economic development incentives. Financial Presentation by City Auditor Shaquille Alexander - Auditor Alexander presented the 2025 draft financial statements, highlighting a 33.8% increase in net position ($11 million) from 2020-2025, a 25% growth in general fund balance ($4.2 million), and a 26% increase in TIF fund balance ($2 million). - Income tax revenue reached an all-time high of nearly $36 million in 2025, up 60% since 2015. The share from the Defense Logistics Agency (DFAS) declined to 47%, indicating successful diversification. - Investment earnings grew 6.5% to $845,000 despite declining interest rates. A budget stabilization fund has been established with $1.5 million, targeting a statutory cap of $2.2 million. - Auditor Alexander emphasized spending discipline, with expenditures coming in under budget, and the city maintaining strong reserves. Rules of Procedure Proposals - Councilor Dixon proposed three rule changes: (1) prohibiting council members from calling out citizens by name in a critical negative manner; (2) prohibiting campaigning, electioneering, or fawning praise from the dais; (3) restoring the process for appointing a temporary chair when both President of Council and President Pro Tempore are absent. - Extensive debate ensued, with concerns about censorship and subjectivity. The second proposal was deferred pending legal interpretation from City Attorney Nicodemus. The first and third proposals were discussed but not voted on. Consent Calendar Items (First Reading – Adoption June 2, 2026) - Resolution 020-2026: Authorizing the Mayor to apply for a Defense Community Infrastructure Program grant (corrected from "Improvement") from the U.S. Department of Defense, focusing on micromobility. Emergency clause. - Ordinance 045-2026: Transferring $100,000 from the General Fund to the Street Maintenance & Repair Fund to purchase a 30-inch mill attachment and pavement roller for in-house pavement repairs. The city maintains 58 centerline miles of roadway, with 18 miles suitable for in-house work. - Ordinance 046-2026: Transferring $25,621.68 from the Town & Country Incentive account to the Debt Service Fund for bond repayment (2014 and 2016 bonds). - Ordinance 047-2026: Transferring $226,262.50 from the Police Department Tax Levy Fund (voter-approved May 2022) to the Debt Service Fund for the police station bond. - Ordinance 048-2026: Appropriating $130,000 from the Plumbing Permits Fund to cover inspection costs, including a single April invoice over $47,000. Emergency clause. - Resolution 021-2026: Approving "then and now" certificates per Ohio Revised Code §5705.41(D)(1). Community Standards & Enforcement Items (Third Reading – Adoption July 7, 2026) - Ordinance 049-2026: Amending Section 505.23 to prohibit the feeding of deer, expanding the existing waterfowl feeding ban. First offense is a minor misdemeanor; subsequent offenses are fourth-degree misdemeanors. Sponsored by Councilwoman Elmore. - Ordinance 050-2026: Amending Section 1111.10 to require new drive-through facilities to provide a minimum 10-foot by-pass lane, clear signage, and clearance for emergency vehicles. Named after Megan Keleman ("Megan's Way Out"), inspired by House Bill 264. Public hearing date to be determined; the family will present on June 9, 2026. Economic Development Items - Ordinance 034-2026 (Second Reading – Public Hearing June 2, 2026): Allowing a special permit for a drive-through facility at 4600 E Broad Street (Culver's). Planning commission passed it unanimously with conditions, including natural screening. - Resolution 019-2026 (Second Reading – Public Hearing June 16, 2026): Authorizing a cooperative agreement with the Whitehall Community Improvement Corporation (WCIC) to formalize existing powers and relationships. The WCIC serves as a land bank and economic development tool. House Bill 184 Transparency Impact - Economic Development Director Jackie Russell explained that House Bill 184, effective late March 2026, restricts public disclosure of information provided to the city for economic assistance (e.g., tax abatements, development agreements). Such discussions must now occur in executive session. The law creates conflicts with existing statutory requirements for programs like CRAs. Council members expressed concern about reduced transparency. Key Outcomes - All first-reading items will be voted on at the June 2, 2026 council meeting. - Ordinances 049-2026 and 050-2026 are scheduled for adoption on July 7, 2026. - Rules of procedure proposals will be revisited after legal review. - Council discussed strategies to better communicate the city's financial health to the public.

During the May 19, 2026 meeting, the Whitehall City Council heard from Franklin County Board of Elections Director Antone White, who recommended June 23, 2026, as the date for a special recall election. After extensive public testimony and council debate, the council adopted three resolutions to place the recall of Mayor Michael Bivens, Councilmember Lori Elmore, and Councilmember Amy Harcar on the ballot. The council also received updates on the Yearling Road construction project, city finances, and community events. Special Presentation - Antone White, Director of the Franklin County Board of Elections, requested that the special recall election be set for June 23, 2026 (a Tuesday). He cited operational advantages, including the ability to offer a full early and absentee voting schedule, avoidance of conflicts with the July 4th holiday, and the need to complete the election before statewide signature validation work begins on July 1. The council accepted this recommendation. Public Comments & Testimony - First Poll Public: Multiple residents spoke, most expressing support for Mayor Bivens, Councilmember Elmore, and Councilmember Harcar, and criticizing the recall effort. - Michael Spicer (Whitehall resident) stated that recall organizers do not speak for the majority and urged a "yes" vote for continued progress. - Glenn Henson (Whitehall resident) complained about a neighbor running a construction business from his residence and said he had not received a return call from the mayor’s office or the police chief. - Fred Malar (on behalf of the Baptist Pastors Conference) voiced support for the mayor and quoted scripture. - Rob Herbert (Whitehall resident) praised the changes under the current administration and said he moved to Whitehall because of the mayor’s leadership. - Tony Wilborn (Whitehall resident) called for the community to operate in love and expressed sadness that some residents feel pushed out of the city. - Chelsea Johnson (owner of Columbus Chaos Women’s Football team) thanked Mayor Bivens for supporting women’s sports and endorsed his leadership. - Harper Blake (Whitehall resident) encouraged everyone to do their own research and support the recall targets. - Michael Young (lead pastor of City of Grace Church, Columbus) called Elmore (first Black councilmember) and Bivens (first Black mayor) history makers, accused the FOP Lodge No. 9 of financing the recall, and questioned the motivation behind it. - Second Poll Public: Additional testimony focused on support for Police Chief Mike Crispin and condemnation of the recall’s divisiveness. - Diane Peters (Whitehall resident) thanked the administration for community conversations but said the recall has changed her view of Whitehall. She criticized FOP Lodge 9 for funding the recall. - Joel Harcar (Whitehall resident) urged a "yes" vote for proven leadership and highlighted the accomplishments of the three recall targets. Discussion Items - Mayor’s Report: Mayor Michael Bivens delivered an emotional address beginning with Rudyard Kipling’s poem “If.” He defended his administration’s fiscal management and transparency, criticized the recall effort as divisive, and stated the recall is being financed by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 9. He addressed concerns that he is pushing certain residents out of the city, declaring that he serves all residents regardless of race, gender, or orientation. He expressed confusion over claims that Whitehall is becoming a “black and white” issue. - Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Trevel Balser reported that the city is in a strong financial position with a robust investment portfolio yielding approximately 3.5–3.7% return. He noted he is working to update outdated financial reports on the city website, some of which had not been updated since before COVID. - Public Service Report: Director Casey Rowlands updated that the Yearling Road project is nearing completion. Brick pavers in crosswalks will be removed this week, asphalt will be laid next week, and the August 1 finish date remains on track. He clarified that donated dedication bricks in sidewalks will not be removed. - Legislation – Second Reading: ORDINANCE NO. 034-2026, allowing a special permit for drive-through facilities at 4600 E Broad Street (property owned by Meyer Foods Management Company), was read by title only. No vote was taken; it will be considered at a future meeting. - Legislation – First Reading: - RESOLUTION NO. 016-2026 (Providing for submission of recall of Mayor Michael Bivens): Introduced by Councilmember Morrison, seconded by McCann. After suspension of rules, councilmembers spoke in support of the mayor. A motion to adopt passed 7-0 (Elmore, Morrison, Harcar, Adkins, McCann, Dixon, Brown all voting yes). - RESOLUTION NO. 017-2026 (Recall of Councilmember Lori Elmore): Introduced by Dixon, seconded by Adkins. Suspension of rules and adoption passed 7-0. Councilmembers delivered statements defending Elmore’s integrity and record. - RESOLUTION NO. 018-2026 (Recall of Councilmember Amy Harcar): Introduced by Morrison, seconded by Dixon. Suspension and adoption passed 7-0. Harcar addressed the reasons for her recall, connecting it to her advocacy for immigrants, refugees, and LGBTQ residents. She and supporters argued the recall is a political effort to remove voices for inclusion. - RESOLUTION NO. 019-2026 (Authorizing a plan with the Whitehall Community Improvement Corporation): Read by title only. Economic Development Director Jackie Russell gave a brief overview, explaining it formalizes the CIC’s cooperative agreement. Discussion was postponed to the next committee meeting. Key Outcomes - The council voted 7-0 to adopt each of the three recall resolutions (016, 017, 018), formally placing the recall of Mayor Michael Bivens, Councilmember Lori Elmore, and Councilmember Amy Harcar on the June 23, 2026 special election ballot. - The council accepted the Franklin County Board of Elections’ recommendation to set the special election for June 23, 2026. - The council postponed detailed consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 019-2026 (CIC agreement) to the next committee meeting. - The council approved the minutes of the May 6, 2026 meeting by a unanimous vote. - Community events were announced: Big Summer Kickoff on June 5, Juneteenth celebration on June 20, and a Memorial Day ceremony on May 25 at 10 a.m. at City Hall.

The Whitehall City Council Committee of the Whole convened on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 6:30 PM. The meeting featured reports from all standing committees, with no draft legislation on the agenda. Administration and Financial Management - Auditor Alexander addressed the history of the revenue sharing issue with the school district. He stated the problem predated his tenure (beginning in 2022) and was resolved by Mayor Bibbins, Auditor Quinzel, and Director Russell. He was unequivocal that the schools “were not shorted a dime” and that contractual safeguards are now in place to prevent recurrence. - Council Member Atkins, who was on the school board during the period in question, stated he had not yet thoroughly reviewed the details of the historical issue. - Alexander responded to concerns about information accessibility from his office. He strongly pushed back against the characterization that he does not work for or represent the people, reaffirming his role as an elected official accountable to taxpayers. - A Community Town Hall was announced for Monday, May 18, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM at the Whitehall Senior Center (4924 Etna Road). The event will be moderated by a resident and will feature a live Q&A segment. Community and Elder Advocacy - Chairperson Harcar introduced plans for “Megan's Way Out” legislation, a local safety ordinance for vehicles exiting drive-throughs, inspired by the death of 25-year-old Megan Kelleman. The ordinance is expected to be presented to the committee in approximately two weeks. City Attorney Nicodemus is collaborating on the draft as a state-level bill on the matter has stalled. Economic Development - Chairperson Dixon presented Ordinance 034-2026, which allows a special permit for drive-through facilities at 4600 E Broad Street (the former Applebee's). The property is owned by Meyer Foods Management Company, and the proposed development is a Culver's restaurant. The ordinance was referred to the Whitehall Planning Commission for a special meeting on May 21, 2026, with a public hearing scheduled for June 2, 2026. - Councilperson McCann expressed strong support for the project, noting positive community feedback. Infrastructure, Public Safety, and Community Events - Chairperson Brown promoted the upcoming Town Hall as an opportunity to discuss infrastructure issues. - Chairperson Morrison reported a successful Law Enforcement Memorial service and reminded the council of the Memorial Day Flag Raising at 10:00 AM at City Hall. Parks and Recreation - Chairperson Elmore requested the reintroduction of deer management legislation. - Chairperson Adkins reported on best practices from Worthington, Ohio, which recommended a deer feeding ban as the necessary first legislative step. Enforcement would rely on code enforcement and animal control. Further population control measures, such as using sharpshooters, would be managed through an ODNR task force. Adkins committed to drafting the feeding ban ordinance for a future meeting. - Upcoming events were highlighted, including “Whitehall Scoops” on May 14, 2026, at the library. Key Outcomes - Legislation Initiated: A deer feeding ban ordinance will be drafted by Councilperson Adkins. The “Megan's Way Out” drive-thru safety ordinance will be presented by Chairperson Harcar in approximately two weeks. - Economic Development Referral: Ordinance 034-2026 (Culver's drive-thru special permit) was referred to the Planning Commission for a meeting on May 21, 2026. A public hearing is set for June 2, 2026. - Community Engagement: The City's Community Town Hall was scheduled for May 18, 2026. The Memorial Day Flag Raising was scheduled for 10:00 AM at City Hall.

The Whitehall City Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chamber at City Hall. The evening began with proclamations for Motorcycle Awareness Month and Municipal Clerks Week. Council unanimously adopted a series of ordinances, including key personnel amendments to hire a City Planner and a Code Enforcement Officer, alongside multiple fund transfers for debt service, energy projects, and record keeping. City finances were reported as stable, and public comments raised concerns about street safety and ward representation. Consent Calendar - Approval of the meeting minutes from April 7, 14, 21, and 28, 2026. (Motion by Harcar, second by Elmore. Adopted unanimously). Public Comments & Testimony - Robert Fisher (Country Club Village resident, 25-year resident): Raised urgent safety concerns about persistent street racing and excessive speeding (50–60 mph in a 25 mph zone) on Dipsom Drive East. He noted the area includes several disabled residents and the problem has lasted 2–3 years. Council member Brown, chair of Infrastructure, offered to follow up. - Tina Matthews (Columbus resident): Addressed the Council regarding Ward 1 Council member Gerald Dixon, inquiring about the process for a recall petition related to his pending litigation. She requested a detailed community presentation for the ward. Her time expired following procedural warnings. Discussion Items - Personnel Amendments (Ordinances 35-2026 & 36-2026): A significant discussion focused on adding a City Planner and a full-time Code Enforcement Officer. - City Planner (up to $37.37/hr): Council member Morrison expressed a dilemma about the salary, questioning the value for a fresh graduate versus an experienced professional. Director Russell justified the range based on the required degree, the role as the sole zoning administrator (carrying liability), mandatory night meetings, dual GIS duties, and market comparisons. She noted the position saves costs compared to external GIS contracts. - Code Enforcement Officer (up to $36/hr): Director Rowlands explained the need for a second officer after moving Animal Control to the Police Department. The hire is critical to prepare for the retirement of a veteran officer with 20 years of knowledge. Funds will come from the General Fund. - Financial and Audit Reports: - The General Fund is stable, starting 2026 at $6.9 million and sitting at $6.5 million after four months. Income tax collections totaled $11.26 million through April 30. Budget spending (33.78%) is closely tracking the target rate (33.33%). - Debt Service Fund Transfers: Council approved over $1.4 million in aggregate transfers to Fund 401 to service bonds, OWDA loans, and other obligations. Council President Potter requested that the Auditor's detailed explanations for these transfers be made publicly available online, rather than distributed only to council members. - Department of Neighborhoods Report: Director Wright reported engaging over 300 residents through meet-and-greets. He introduced a new "See Something, Say Something" bicycle patrol initiative to improve neighborhood connection and issue reporting. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 34-2026: Drive-through facility at 4600 E Broad St. Referred to the Planning Commission. - Ordinances 35-2026 & 36-2026 (Personnel): Adopted unanimously. Administration authorized to begin hiring for a City Planner and Code Enforcement Officer. - Ordinances 37-2026 (Energy Project Fund): Adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 38-2026 (Accrued Benefit Reserve): Adopted unanimously. - Ordinances 39-44 (Debt Service & Records): Adopted unanimously. Includes fund transfers for bond payments, water/sewer loans, and a $6,500 records maintenance appropriation. - Future Events: - Ice Cream Social (Dept. of Neighborhoods): May 14, 3:00 PM, Whitehall Library. - Community Conversation (Elmore/Alexander): May 18, 6:30 PM, Senior Center. - Memorial Day Flag Raising: May 25, 10:00 AM, City Hall. - Ward 2 Quarterly Meeting (McCann): Scheduled for early August. - Councilmember Statements: Council member Harcar publicly defended her employer (ETSS) regarding immigration services and detailed her work assisting seniors and veterans. Council member Dixon acknowledged the traffic concerns raised by the public and praised the cooperation on the personnel ordinances.

The Whitehall City Council Committee Meeting was held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 6:30 PM. The agenda featured three pieces of draft legislation, including amendments to the city's personnel table and salary schedule, and a special permit for a new drive-through restaurant. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a discussion on the prioritization of a new City Planner position versus long-awaited additional Code Enforcement support, resulting in a compromise to bundle the positions. Discussion Items Ordinances 035-2026 & 036-2026: Personnel Table and Salary Revisions - Director of Development Jackie Russell presented Ordinances 35 and 36. The primary focus was on creating a new full-time City Planner position. - Council members (Morrison, Dixon, McCann) expressed concerns about the process, questioning why the position was being introduced as an emergency when administration had been aware of it for months. They also raised concerns about the pay scale (­$69,000), calling it high for an entry-level role. - Director Russell explained the pay was based on the MOPSA salary survey, lowered to be competitive but fiscally responsible. She clarified the position was bundled with other HR changes, which accelerated the timeline. She stated the timing was right now as the city's budget is in a healthy place after four months of the fiscal year. - The position’s duties will include acting as the zoning officer and managing the city’s GIS system. Director Russell noted this would save the city the $10,000 annual contractor fee and avoid a $90,000 quote for a full-service GIS company, while also improving customer service for permitting. - Council member Morrison argued that Code Enforcement has needed help for over a decade and should take priority over the Planner position. He worried the Planner position would push the Code Enforcement need aside. - Resolution: Director Russell offered to amend Ordinance 035-2026 to include an additional Code Enforcement Officer position, allowing both positions to move forward simultaneously. Council members unanimously expressed support for this compromise. The revised ordinance will be drafted and circulated before the next meeting. - Ordinance 036-2026 (Salary Schedule) is expected to proceed as planned since the existing pay range for Code Enforcement covers the new position. Ordinance 034-2026: Special Permit for Drive-Through Facility (Culver’s) - Director Russell presented a request from Meyer Foods Management Company for a special use permit to allow a drive-through at 4600 E Broad Street, the site of the vacant Applebee’s. - The proposed use is a Culver’s restaurant, which is expected to create 80 jobs. The existing building will be demolished for a new construction. - The applicant has already received a variance from the BZBA regarding setbacks and building orientation. - A public hearing on this legislation is scheduled for June 2, 2026. - Council discussed an emerging state law requiring escape routes for drive-throughs, noting the Culver’s design already incorporates this feature. Public Safety Committee: Deer Culling Initiative - Chairperson Morrison announced plans to reintroduce deer culling legislation for Whitehall, modeled after a successful program in Worthington. The Worthington program removed over 100 deer in eight days and donated 4,000 pounds of meat to a local food pantry. - Morrison also expressed interest in a “no deer feeding” ordinance to deter deer from gathering in residential areas, citing observed issues with residents putting out salt licks. Financial Advance: General Fund to Energy Project Fund - Council discussed an ordinance to advance $61,228.60 from the general fund (101) to the energy project fund (810). This is to make a payment related to a special assessment from 2017, bridging a timing gap between the payment due date and the delayed real estate tax disbursement from the county. The fund will be repaid once the disbursement is received. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 035-2026 will be revised to include an additional Code Enforcement Officer position. A new draft will be provided to council before the next meeting. - Ordinance 036-2026 (Salary Schedule) will move forward as presented. - Ordinance 034-2026 (Culver’s Drive-Through) is set for a public hearing on June 2, 2026. - The deer culling and no deer feeding ordinances will be drafted and brought to a future committee meeting for discussion. - The financial advance ordinance for $61,228.60 will be placed on the agenda for a single reading at the next council meeting. - The next council meeting was confirmed for Wednesday, May 6, 2026, due to the regular Monday being Election Day.

The Whitehall City Council convened on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall, President Thomas Potter presiding. The meeting included a public hearing on detention facility zoning, reports from city officials, public comments, and votes on five legislative items. Consent Calendar - Councilman Devin Brown was excused from the meeting by a unanimous vote. - The April 13, 2026 Special Meeting minutes were approved unanimously. Officials' Reports (Discussion Items) - Mayor Michael T. Bivens reported on police and fire recruiting, including seven new police recruits and an active search for a female firefighter. He detailed the expansion of the "See Something, Say Something" initiative into neighborhood bicycle patrols and announced the city's first Founders' Day celebration scheduled for the fall. - City Auditor Shaquille Alexander provided a financial summary, stating the city's total portfolio is roughly $30 million, with cash on hand at $4.4 million and a budget stabilization fund of $1.54 million. He urged reliance on verified financial facts. - Director of Public Service Casey Rowlands reported the Broad Street phase three project is near completion and the Yearling Road project is on track for an August 1st finish. She noted the "See Something, Say Something" program has resolved 30 out of 30 complaints. Councilman Larry Morrison raised concerns about confusion over new traffic patterns at the Broad and Hamilton intersection. Public Hearing & Discussion: Ordinance 022-2026 (Detention Facilities) City Planner Mr. Nutter presented a proposed ordinance to require a special use permit for the construction or operation of detention facilities in all zoning districts. The legislation is a proactive measure to ensure any future facility fits the city's character and development goals. Council members clarified the ordinance regulates the use of land, not the user, and does not prohibit detention facilities but subjects them to additional scrutiny through the Planning Commission and City Council. The Whitehall Planning Commission unanimously recommended the legislation. No residents spoke in favor or opposition during the hearing. Public Comments & Testimony - Tatiana Bojanowski: Expressed strong support for Councilwoman Amy Harcar, sharing her background as an immigrant from Macedonia and praising Councilwoman Harcar's dedication to helping vulnerable populations. - Yvonne Peters: Spoke against division in the community, expressing support for Mayor Bivens and Councilwomen Elmore and Harcar. She specifically thanked Councilman McCann for his community engagement. - Linda Long: Reported that multiple residents have expressed feeling unsafe letting their children play in Whitehall parks due to ongoing hate and division in the community, urging the council to address the issue. Key Outcomes - Ordinance No. 022-2026 (Detention Facilities Special Permit): Adopted (6-0). - Ordinance No. 027-2026 (Personnel Amendment): Failed (2-4; Elmore, Harcar in favor; Dixon, Morrison, Adkins, McCann opposed). The item authorizes an amendment to the table of authorized personnel for FY2026. - Ordinance No. 028-2026 (161.38 Changes): Failed (2-4; same split). The item amends the personnel code. - Ordinance No. 033-2026 (HR Training): Adopted (6-0). Authorizes a supplemental appropriation of $8,000 from the general fund for HR training needs. - Resolution No. 015-2026 (MORPC Grant): Adopted (6-0). Authorizes the Mayor to apply for a $100,000 Technical Assistance grant from the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission with no local match. - Next Steps: The two failed ordinances (027 and 028) were noted as needing to be revisited by the administration. Community Date Board & Council Remarks - Councilman Dixon addressed facing homophobic attacks and offered condolences to the Kelly family. He voted in favor of the MORPC grant despite philosophical concerns over national debt. - Councilwomen Harcar and Elmore condemned hate and bigotry. Harcar reminded the public of the domestic violence hotline (614-224-6363) and emphasized leaving such situations safely requires support. - Councilman Morrison noted a celebration of life for a local veteran and thanked the audience. - It was noted Whitehall Yearling High School earned a "Momentum Award" from the state of Ohio for academic growth. Councilman Dixon also highlighted a student athlete, Andre Jackson, who set a school record in the 400-meter dash (45.68 seconds) at the University of Tennessee.

The Whitehall City Council Committee Meeting was held on April 14, 2026, immediately following a special meeting at 6:30 PM. The meeting started at approximately 6:40 PM and adjourned at 8:39 PM. The agenda featured a presentation on anti‑human trafficking, a proposal to amend council rules on member attire, second readings of ordinances to create a city planner position, and a resolution to apply for a grant to develop an active transportation plan. Standing committee reports were also delivered. Public Comments & Testimony Yolanda Rory, Associate Manager for the Anti‑Human Trafficking program at the Salvation Army of Central Ohio, provided a detailed presentation on the organization's work. She described the Central Ohio region RISE coalition, which comprises over 100 organizations and 300 individuals. The Salvation Army manages the 24‑hour National Human Trafficking Hotline for Central Ohio (1‑888‑373‑7888) and offers services including a drop‑in center, case management in jails, trauma and addiction groups \"Seeking Safety\", a tattoo‑removal partnership with the Ohio Attorney General's initiative, and free community trainings. Ms. Rory presented statewide statistics from the Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force dashboard, noting that 2025 saw a drop from 567 survivors in 2024, possibly due to underreporting. She discussed differences between sex and labor trafficking, the grooming process, and underreporting among male victims. Council members asked questions about reporting, prevention, and how the public can help. Ms. Rory encouraged attendees to save the hotline number in their phones. Discussion Items Dress Code and Council Rules Councilmember Elmore proposed adding a rule to the council rules requiring professional or business‑casual attire for council members while seated on the dais, specifically prohibiting T‑shirts and backward‑worn ball caps with political slogans. Councilmember McCann publicly apologized to Elmore for a heated exchange the previous day, acknowledging she was correct. Other council members supported the amendment, noting it provides clear expectations for new members. The matter will be brought as a motion at the next voting meeting on April 21. City Planner Position (Ordinances 027‑2026 and 028‑2026) Director of Development Sarah Russell presented a proposal to add a city planner to the personnel table, to be filled on an emergency basis. She explained that the current development staff (four people) is overstretched across economic development, building, and zoning. Intern Curtis Nutter has been functioning as a de facto planner for three to four months and would be hired full‑time. His current pay is $20/hour for 27–30 hours per week; the new planner position is budgeted at $69,000 annually, below the MORPC median of $73,000–$75,000. The position will be funded from the general fund (confirmed by the auditor). The companion ordinance (028‑2026) adjusts the payroll clerk's pay. Both ordinances received a second reading and will be voted on at the April 21 meeting. Detention Facilities Zoning Amendment (Ordinance 022‑2026) This third‑reading ordinance would amend the planning and zoning code to require special permits for the construction or operation of detention facilities. Community Standards Chair McCann noted he will be absent on April 21 due to a professional training. The amendment is expected to be adopted at that meeting. According to the agenda, a public hearing is scheduled for the April 21 council meeting. Active Transportation Plan Grant Resolution Director Russell requested council approval to apply for a technical assistance grant from MORPC to create an active transportation plan. The plan would identify safe routes for walking, bicycling, and transit and is a prerequisite for larger federal Safe Streets grants. Extensive debate occurred: - Councilmember Dixon questioned the use of taxpayer dollars, arguing the city managed without such studies for decades and that borrowing from the future is fiscally irresponsible. - Councilmembers Adkins, Harcar, and McCann supported the grant, citing safety concerns. Russell noted that Whitehall is missing 10 miles of sidewalk and that 19 pedestrians were struck by vehicles in 2025, with a total of 202 pedestrian strikes between 2012 and mid‑2023. - Russell clarified that MORPC membership dues are already paid, so the grant effectively recaptures city contributions. She will provide the match percentage and a breakdown of funding sources before the April 21 vote. Standing Committee Reports - Administration and Financial Management (Chair Elmore): No drafts or pending legislation. - Community and Elder Advocacy (Chair Harcar): Harcar announced a free QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training at the Senior Center on April 30, 5–7 p.m. Interested residents should email her. She also discussed her participation in a human trafficking conference and reiterated her commitment to standing with survivors. - Community Standards and Enforcement (Chair McCann): Presented the third reading of Ordinance 022‑2026 (above). - Economic Development (Chair Dixon): No new legislation. Dixon reminded members to complete a survey he emailed; the active transportation grant was debated in this committee. - Infrastructure, Maintenance and Services (Chair Brown): No drafts or pending legislation. - Public Safety (Chair Morrison): No drafts or pending legislation. - Parks and Recreation (Chair Adkins): Adkins listed upcoming events (candlemaking for Mother's Day, baseball opening day, Arbor Day, Healthy Kids Day, Live Birds). Dixon suggested using \"dusk\" as a closing time on park signs rather than specific times. The Parks and Recreation Commission meets the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. in council chambers. Key Outcomes - The proposed dress‑code amendment will be introduced as a motion at the April 21 council meeting. - The city planner position (Ordinance 027‑2026) and companion pay change (028‑2026) will be voted on April 21; the emergency clause will allow immediate implementation. - The detention‑facility zoning amendment (022‑2026) is expected to be adopted on April 21. - The resolution to apply for the MORPC active transportation grant will be considered for approval on April 21; Director Russell will provide match details and funding source information before the vote. - Councilmember Harcar will host a free suicide prevention (QPR) training on April 30 at the Senior Center, 5–7 p.m. - Bulk trash pickup is scheduled for Wednesday, April 15 (the day after the meeting).

The Whitehall City Council held a special meeting on April 13, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Council Chamber at City Hall. The meeting lasted approximately three minutes and was called by President Potter to conduct the second reading of three recall resolutions for Mayor Michael Bivens, Councilmember Lori Elmore, and Councilmember Amy Harcar. These resolutions were read by title only, and the meeting served as a procedural step to meet a deadline for submission to the Board of Elections. Call to Order and Roll Call - Presiding: President Potter - Present: Councilmembers Mike Adkins, Brian McCann, Gerald Dixon, Devin Brown, Lori Elmore, Larry Morrison, Amy Harcar, and President Potter. - All members confirmed they had received copies of the agenda and legislation prior to the meeting. Second Reading of Recall Resolutions Three resolutions were read by title only: - Resolution No. 012-2026: Providing for the submission of the question of the recall of Mayor Michael Bivens to the electors and declaring an emergency. - Resolution No. 013-2026: Providing for the submission of the question of the recall of Councilmember Lori Elmore to the electors and declaring an emergency. - Resolution No. 014-2026: Providing for the submission of the question of the recall of Councilmember Amy Harcar to the electors and declaring an emergency. Discussion Items - President Potter explained that at the previous week’s meeting, a motion was made to pass these resolutions with an emergency clause and suspension of rules, but the motion failed to receive the required five votes. Consequently, the legislation required two additional readings to advance. This special meeting and a subsequent special meeting on April 14, 2026, are being held to meet the timeline for submission to the Board of Elections. The second reading was completed tonight, allowing the resolutions to be voted on tomorrow without needing an emergency clause. Key Outcomes - The three recall resolutions were read by title only and advanced to a third reading and vote scheduled for the special meeting on April 14, 2026. - The meeting adjourned at 5:33 PM.

The Whitehall City Council convened on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, presided over by President Thomas Potter. The meeting addressed routine approvals, a special proclamation for National Child Abuse Prevention Month, committee and official reports, and extensive public testimony regarding recall petitions against Mayor Michael Bivens, Councilmember Lori Elmore, and Councilmember Amy Harcar. The council passed several emergency ordinances but failed to advance the recall resolutions due to a procedural vote on date changes. Special Presentation - Mayor Michael T. Bivens proclaimed April 2026 as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, reading a proclamation that highlighted the theme "Powered by Hope, Strength by Prevention" and the city's commitment to child safety and family support. Public Comments & Testimony - A large number of residents and community leaders spoke in support of Mayor Bivens, Councilmembers Elmore and Harcar, characterizing the recall effort as politically motivated and rooted in racism. Speakers cited the mayor's accomplishments (e.g., fiscal reserves, new businesses, workforce development), Elmore's legislative record and MLK scholarship, and Harcar's advocacy for immigrants, domestic violence victims, and all residents. - Former Mayor Mike Shannon criticized the recall petition validation process, claiming the signature count was calculated incorrectly under the city charter and announcing his intention to file a taxpayer lawsuit. - Several speakers denounced specific council members (notably McCann and Dixon) as racists or as agents of outside interests, drawing sharp responses from those members during the meeting. - Some residents urged the council to delay the recall vote date to allow broader participation due to the Memorial Day holiday, while others argued the original Tuesday date was sufficient with early voting. Discussion Items - Recall Resolutions (Resolutions 12, 13, 14): City Attorney Bradley Nicodemus explained these resolutions are ministerial – council must transmit the certified petitions to the Board of Elections. The primary debate centered on the election date: originally set for Tuesday, May 26, 2026. Councilmember Morrison moved to amend each resolution to Thursday, May 28, citing constituent concerns about holiday travel. The amendments passed by majority votes. However, motions to suspend rules (required for emergency passage) failed each time due to opposition from Councilmembers Brown and Elmore, resulting in no adoption. Nicodemus warned that delay could necessitate special meetings or litigation. - Other Legislation: Multiple ordinances were introduced under emergency suspension rules and adopted, including appropriations for election expenses, technology lifecycle, police grants, and fund reclassifications. Key Outcomes - Legislation Adopted (all under emergency passage): - Ordinance No. 11-2026 (Third Reading): adoption of May 2026 code replacement pages – passed 6-0. - Ordinance No. 24-2026: $24,000 appropriation transfer – passed 6-0. - Ordinance No. 25-2026: $260,000 supplemental appropriation for Hamilton-Broad incentive – passed 6-0. - Ordinance No. 26-2026: $25,000 to Technology Lifecycle Fund – passed 6-0. - Ordinance No. 29-2026: $40,000 to election expense account – passed 5-1 (Elmore dissenting). - Ordinance No. 30-2026: reclassifying a fund advance as a fund transfer – passed 5-1 (Brown dissenting). - Ordinance No. 31-2026: $75,000 to auditor tech expense – passed 6-0. - Ordinance No. 32-2026: $17,500 for license plate reader program – passed 6-0. - Resolution No. 11-2026: approving “Then and Now” certificates – passed 6-0. - Recall Resolutions (12, 13, 14) Not Adopted: Each resolution failed to achieve the required suspension of rules for emergency passage after the date was amended to May 28. The council will need to schedule additional special meetings or take other steps to comply with the charter’s timeline. - Second Reading Referred: Ordinance No. 22-2026 (requiring special permits for detention facilities) was read by title only and referred to the Planning Commission for April 20, 2026, with a public hearing set for April 21.