Public Meetings - Whitehall, Ohio

The Whitehall City Council held its regular meeting on March 17, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber. Key agenda items included a presentation by Dr. Nathan Harris of See Brilliance, reports from standing committees and officials, public comment on community issues and the recall effort, and the adoption of several ordinances. The meeting also featured updates on the city's economic development standardization, an arbitration ruling, and implementation of Avery's Law. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the March 3, 2026 Agenda & Regular Meeting and the March 10, 2026 Committee Meeting were approved by a voice vote (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Resident (name not stated): Expressed gratitude for winning a car at the State of the City event and praised the city's programming for youth and seniors. - Resident (name not stated): Requested a public service announcement about proper mattress disposal and asked for the ability to enlarge photos in the city newsletter. Also expressed sadness about the recall effort. - Marie Long: Praised the progress under Mayor Bivens and his team, criticized the recall as an attempt to undo 14 years of improvement, and expressed support for the current administration. - Michael Spicer: Voiced support for Mayor Bivens, Councilmember Harcar, and (excused) Councilmember Elmore, stating he and other neighbors would work to keep them in office. Discussion Items - Special Presentation – Dr. Nathan Harris (See Brilliance): Dr. Harris, President & CEO, described his nonprofit's mission to provide STEAM programming for youth historically marginalized in STEM. He noted that See Brilliance has already conducted two events in Whitehall (serving up to 150 children) and aims to expand into Whitehall schools. He requested connections to the Whitehall School Board and industry partners. Council members expressed strong support for the initiative. - Mayor Michael T. Bivens: Reported positive public feedback on the city's direction. He announced that the administration is standardizing economic development incentives (tax abatements, CRA agreements, etc.) and that a plan will be presented at the next committee meeting. He also provided an update on the city's pavement assessment, which will inform the next capital improvement plan. The Mayor further discussed a recent arbitration decision, noting that the arbitrator found no evidence that the city targeted union leaders for protected activities, marking the fourth time in two years such claims have been rejected. He affirmed the city's commitment to fair union relations. - City Attorney Bradley S. Nicodemus: Gave an update on Avery's Law (dangerous dog legislation), which takes effect March 18, 2026. He explained that due to complexities in seizure and appeal timelines, the city will rely on Franklin County Animal Control and the county prosecutor's office for seizure determinations, while the city handles criminal cases. He recommended against adopting a local ordinance at this time. Councilmembers asked clarifying questions and agreed to monitor the situation. - City Auditor Shaquille Alexander: Noted the city's strong financial position and offered to provide a detailed briefing on city finances. He expressed favorable consideration for Ordinances 20-2026, 21-2026, and 23-2026. - Director of Public Service Casey Rowlands: Reported that the city has gone out to bid for the waterline project and that residents will receive mailers with project updates. She requested favorable consideration for Ordinances 20-2026 and 21-2026. - Standing Committee Reports: Each committee chair reported that meetings were held the previous week and that minutes are on file; next meetings are scheduled for Tuesday after 6:30 p.m. - Adoption of Council Rules (2026-2027 Term): After discussion, Councilmember McCann expressed concerns that some rule changes (e.g., restrictions on bringing back tabled legislation, sign policies) were aimed at protecting individuals rather than decorum. The rules were adopted by a 7-0 vote. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: March 3 and March 10 minutes approved unanimously. - Council Rules Adopted: The draft Rules of Procedure for the 2026-2027 term were adopted by a 7-0 vote. - Ordinance No. 011-2026 (Second Reading): Authorizing adoption of the May 2026 replacement pages to the Codified Ordinances and declaring an emergency. Read by title only; no vote was recorded on this item. - Ordinance No. 020-2026 (First Reading): Advancing $250,000 from the General Fund to the Fleet Reserve & Maintenance Fund; appropriating $250,000 for fleet expenses. Introduced by Morrison, seconded by Brown. Suspended rules and adopted by 7-0. - Ordinance No. 021-2026 (First Reading): Appropriating $400,000 from the City Hall Reno Fund to the City Hall Reno Expense Account. Introduced by Morrison, seconded by Brown. Suspended rules and adopted by 7-0. - Ordinance No. 022-2026 (First Reading): Amending the Planning and Zoning Code to require special permits for detention facilities. Read by title only; no further action was taken on this item during the meeting. - Ordinance No. 023-2026 (First Reading): Amending the Codified Ordinances Table of Authorized Personnel for FY2026 and declaring an emergency. Introduced by Morrison, seconded by McCann. Suspended rules and adopted by 7-0. - Public Comments on Recall & Support: Residents spoke both in support of and against the recall effort; Councilmembers expressed appreciation for community engagement.

The Whitehall City Council held committee meetings on March 10, 2026, beginning at 6:32 PM. The agenda included three draft ordinances: a codified ordinance replacement (second reading), a fleet fund advance, city hall renovation funding, and a zoning amendment for detention facilities. An additional personnel ordinance was added at the end. Committee chairs reported on ongoing initiatives and projects. No final votes were taken; all items will proceed to regular council. Committee of the Whole (President Potter) - Ordinance 011-2026 was taken up under second reading (the chair referred to it as second reading, while the agenda listed it as a third reading). It authorizes adoption of the May 2026 replacement pages to the Codified Ordinances and declares an emergency. Councilmembers Morrison and Adkins will introduce and second the measure. Administration and Financial Management (Chair Elmoe) - Ordinance 020-2026 (first reading): Advances $250,000 from unappropriated General Fund monies to the Fleet Reserve and Maintenance Fund to outfit replacement vehicles for the Police and Service Departments. Director Casey Rowlands explained that the 313 account is an end-of-month transfer and currently lacks sufficient funds; the advance will be repaid by year end. - Ordinance 021-2026 (first reading): Appropriates $400,000 from the City Hall Renovation Fund (330) for interior renovations, including possible upgrades to the council chamber (chairs, carpet, dais). The fund originally held $1.6 million for exterior work; the remaining $400,000 is now being moved into an expense account to begin planning. - Both ordinances are scheduled for suspension and adoption at the March 17 council meeting. Community and Elder Advocacy (Chair Harcar) - No pending legislation. Chair Harcar reported her participation in the Franklin County Suicide Prevention Coalition and is arranging for a VA representative to speak to council about veteran suicide. - Councilmember Dixon shared that he attended a Zoom meeting with Carolyn Thurman of Civic Uplift regarding the Whitehall Rise project and arts in Whitehall; notes were provided to the group. Community Standards and Enforcement (Chair McCann) - Ordinance 022-2026 (third reading): Amends the Planning and Zoning Code to require a special permit for the construction or operation of a detention facility. Economic Development Director Jackie Russell explained that current code bundles all government facilities as by-right uses, potentially allowing a detention facility to bypass public review. The change would make detention facilities a special-use permit item, requiring Planning Commission recommendation and three council readings. - Russell stated the intent is to protect Whitehall's limited warehouse space for job-creating and recreational uses (e.g., breweries, indoor pickleball, go-karts) and to be proactive, noting that the City of Columbus has already adopted a similar policy. - Councilmembers expressed support for recreation and event spaces and discussed the positive impact on local businesses. The measure will be up for adoption on April 21. Infrastructure, Maintenance and Services (Chair Brown) - No legislation. Chair Brown updated that Yearling Road construction will resume within two weeks, with paving to start in about a month. Completion is anticipated in June or July. The goal is to minimize disruption during the school off-season. Other Standing Committees (Economic Development, Public Safety, Parks and Recreation) - All three committees reported no drafts or pending legislation and were quickly adjourned. Additional Legislation (Added at End of Meeting) - Ordinance 023-2026 was introduced as an add-on. It authorizes an amendment to the Codified Ordinances regarding the FY2026 table of authorized personnel, specifically a title change in the Auditor's Office (no salary change). The council discussed the process and decided to formally place it on a future agenda with a first reading. Key Outcomes - Three ordinances advanced in the committee process: fleet funding (020-2026) and city hall renovations (021-2026) are on track for adoption March 17; the detention-facility zoning amendment (022-2026) is scheduled for adoption April 21. - The codified ordinances replacement (011-2026) continues to a future reading with an adoption target of April 7. - A new personnel ordinance (023-2026) was introduced as an add-on and will be assigned to an upcoming agenda. - No formal votes were taken at the committee meeting.

The Whitehall City Council convened for its regular meeting on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber. The agenda featured the recognition of the 2025 Employees of the Year, a financial presentation by the city's municipal advisors, the formal introduction of the Department of Neighborhoods, a crucial vote on whether to defund the department, and a line-by-line adoption of the 2026-2027 Rules of Procedure. Special Presentations - 2025 Employees of the Year: The council adopted resolutions recognizing Dustin Irvin (Labor/Service), Justin Mooney (Firefighter/Paramedic), Jason Kubinski (Police Officer), and Julie Ogg (Administrative/Support). Each received a one-time payment of $350. Julie Ogg, the Clerk of Council, was recognized during the meeting for her 22 years of service. - Baker Tilly Municipal Advisors (Debt Presentation): Senior Manager Tom Ricchiuto provided a detailed analysis of the city's finances. Whitehall holds approximately $32 million in outstanding debt. The city holds an 'A' (stable) credit rating from S&P Global. The city has a general fund balance at 21.2% of annual revenues and averaged a 10% surplus over the last three years. Auditor Alexander emphasized the city's strong fiscal health, noting the general fund ended 2025 with an actual balance of $8.4 million. Discussion Items - Department of Neighborhoods: Incoming Director Gerald Wright presented his 90-day plan for the department, which he will officially assume on March 16. He outlined a vision focused on resident listening sessions, multilingual communication, and acting as a central hub to bridge gaps between city departments and residents. Councilmembers pressed Wright on metrics, redundancy, and budget. Councilmembers Harcar and Brown argued strongly against defunding the department, stating it is financially responsible and necessary to address Whitehall's leading poverty and infant mortality rates. Councilmembers Morrison, McCann, and Dixon voted in favor of defunding. Mayor Bivens gave a strong defense of his administration's work and the department's necessity, calling for council to reject the defunding ordinance. - Adoption of 2026-2027 Rules of Procedure: Council spent a significant portion of the evening (from approximately 9:30 PM to 10:37 PM) conducting a line-by-line review and vote on 44 items of the proposed code of conduct for council meetings. Key amendments adopted included: - Striking specific street addresses from public sign-in sheets (changing to "name and city" throughout the document). - Setting public comment time to a maximum of 3 minutes. - Amending the order of reports to include the Director of the Department of Neighborhoods. - Establishing rules for signs in the chamber (allowed, no larger than 2x1.5 feet, must be held in a lap or stood in the back/sides of the room). - Setting Poll Council speaking time to 3 minutes with additional time possible at the president's discretion to account for interruptions. - Requiring cell phones to be silenced on the dais. - A motion to entirely strike the section on Robert's Rules of Order (Item 44) failed, though it was passed on subsequent sub-votes. Public Comments & Testimony - Multiple residents spoke in support of the Department of Neighborhoods and against Ordinance 008-2026, which sought to defund it. - Diane Peters appealed directly to Councilmembers Atkins, Morrison, McCann, and Dixon, arguing that the current system has failed to lower Whitehall's high poverty rate. - Brian Winston described the department as an "investment in community stability" and a necessary bridge between problems and solutions. - Annie Johnson shared a personal story of overcoming 16 months of homelessness and credited Mayor Bivens with connecting her to resources. - Marie Long praised the Mayor's efforts during the oil spill and his work on food insecurity, admonishing council members who withheld applause for the department during the State of the City address. Officials' Reports - Mayor Bivens highlighted the successful State of the City event and a mock trial held at City Hall, and strongly defended his administration and the Department of Neighborhoods. - City Attorney Nicodemus deferred a planned update on Avery's Law to the next meeting. He confirmed the Fairway Cliffs overlay district is constitutional for future developments but cannot be applied retroactively to the approved plat, citing the Ohio Constitution. - Director of Public Service Rowlands congratulated the award winners and requested a favorable consideration of ordinances 12, 18, and 19, and an unfavorable consideration of Ordinance 008-2026. - Treasurer Balser provided an update on his on-boarding process, stating he received his bonding and equipment to begin daily operations. Key Outcomes - Defunding of Department of Neighborhoods Rejected: The motion to adopt Ordinance 008-2026, which would have defunded the Department of Neighborhoods, failed in a 3-4 vote. (Yes: Morrison, McCann, Dixon. No: Elmore, Harcar, Adkins, Brown). The department will remain funded. - Fiscal Ordinances Adopted: A series of first-reading ordinances (011 through 019) involving fund transfers and supplemental appropriations for various city funds, including the General Fund, Debt Service Fund, Police Grant Fund, Law Enforcement Trust Fund, and Building/Plumbing Permit Funds, were all adopted unanimously by suspension of rules. - 2026-2027 Rules of Procedure Passed (Amended): The council passed an amended version of the 2026-2027 Rules of Procedure. The final compiled document incorporating all amendments is expected for formal ratification at the next meeting. - Employee of the Year Awards Approved: Resolutions 007 through 010 were unanimously adopted, awarding formal recognition and a $350 payment to the four 2025 Employees of the Year. - Investment Policy Revised: Resolution 005-2026, approving revisions to the city's investment policy, was unanimously adopted.

The Whitehall City Council Committee met on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. The agenda included a presentation by Jared Buerger of A Kid Again, ten pieces of draft legislation covering codified ordinances, employee recognitions, appropriations, and fund transfers, and a discussion of proposed changes to the Council Rules of Procedure for the 2026-2027 term. No final votes were taken; all legislative items are scheduled for adoption at the March 3, 2026 council meeting. Presentation by A Kid Again - Jared Buerger, Executive Director of the Central Ohio Chapter of A Kid Again, presented on the nonprofit's mission to serve families raising children with life-threatening medical conditions. He reported that A Kid Again currently serves 1,100 families in Franklin County but only five in Whitehall. - Buerger emphasized the need for a Department of Neighborhoods to better connect residents with human services. He cited statistics: 88% of children enrolled report improved quality of life; 77% of families feel closer; 75% of parents report less depression and sadness. Demand for services has increased 72% since January 2025, and 91% of nonprofit leaders expect operational cost increases by June 2026. - Council members expressed support for the organization and the concept of a Department of Neighborhoods. Auditor Alexander added that the investment is affordable and necessary. Legislation Introduced All legislative items below received first or second readings and will be considered for adoption at the March 3, 2026 council meeting. No votes were taken. - Ordinance 011-2026 (listed as 3rd reading on agenda): Authorizing adoption of May 2026 replacement pages to the City's codified ordinances, declaring an emergency. Note: The agenda states this is a third reading scheduled for adoption on April 7, 2026, but committee proceedings referred to it as needing three readings, indicating a possible discrepancy. (Introduced by Morrison, seconded by Adkins) - Resolution 007-2026 (1st reading): Recognizing Dustin Irvin as 2025 Service Employee of the Year with a $350 payment. - Resolution 008-2026 (1st reading): Recognizing Justin Mooney as 2025 Firefighter/Paramedic Employee of the Year with a $350 payment. - Resolution 009-2026 (1st reading): Recognizing Jason Kubinski as 2025 Police Officer Employee of the Year with a $350 payment. - Resolution 010-2026 (1st reading): Recognizing Julie Ogg as 2025 Administrative/Support Employee of the Year with a $350 payment. - Ordinance 008-2026 (3rd reading): Amending Ordinance 118-2025 to make appropriations from the General Fund for the Department of Neighborhoods, declaring an emergency. - Ordinance 012-2026 (1st reading): Supplemental appropriation of $203,342.37 from the WIMPITE Fund to the Hamilton/Broad TIF expense account for infrastructure reimbursement. - Resolution 005-2026 (2nd reading): Approving revisions to the City's investment policy. - Ordinance 013-2026 (1st reading): Fund transfer of $68,650.42 from the General Fund to the Debt Service Fund for energy upgrade capital lease repayment. - Ordinance 014-2026 (1st reading): Supplemental appropriation of $4,090 from the Police Department Grant Fund to the Ohio Traffic Safety Office Grant for driver's education classes at Whitehall Yearling High School. - Ordinance 015-2026 (1st reading): Fund transfer of $30,306 from the Evidence Setaside Fund to the Law Enforcement Trust Fund for distribution of seized narcotics investigation monies. - Ordinance 016-2026 (1st reading): Fund transfer of $57,920.89 from the General Fund to the Debt Service Fund for repayment of a Franklin County Infrastructure Bank loan for the Woodcliff redevelopment project. Council Rules of Procedure Discussion - President Potter led a discussion of proposed changes to the Council Rules for the 2026-2027 term. Council members debated a range of provisions, including presidential succession, agenda deadlines, public speaker time limits (two three-minute sessions or one five-minute session), council debate time limits, executive session conduct, sign restrictions, cell phone use, and decorum. City Attorney Nicodemus provided legal guidance on Robert's Rules of Order and First Amendment considerations. - No votes were taken; President Potter announced that council members may bring individual motions on specific rule changes at the March 3 meeting, where a simple majority of four votes will be required for approval. Key Outcomes - All draft legislation was introduced as first or second readings and is scheduled for adoption at the council meeting on March 3, 2026. - Employee recognition resolutions are expected to be suspended and adopted on March 3. - Council members will propose and vote on specific amendments to the Council Rules of Procedure at the March 3 meeting. - No public comments were received, and no action items were approved during this committee session.

The Whitehall City Council met on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber. The meeting included a proclamation for Black History Month, a presentation on pavement management services, a detailed financial update from the Auditor, and public testimony on the proposed Department of Neighborhoods. Several pieces of legislation were considered, with one ordinance postponed and three items adopted. Special Presentations - Mayor Michael T. Bivens presented a video proclamation declaring February 2026 as Black History Month in Whitehall, prepared in partnership with Whitehall Yearling High School students. The Mayor also invited the public to a forthcoming program at the high school. - James Golden, CEO of Payment Management Group (PMG), presented a pavement management service that uses high-definition video and AI-driven condition assessments to help cities prioritize road maintenance. He noted that milling and overlaying one mile of roadway in Central Ohio costs about $250,000, while full-depth reclamation can reach $500,000–$600,000 per mile. The service would cost $25,000 for a two-year contract, funded by State Highway Fund monies. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from February 2, 3, and 10, 2026 — passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - A speaker opposed Ordinance 008-2026 (Department of Neighborhoods), arguing the function previously existed at lower cost and that elevated positions were unnecessary. They urged a no vote. - Diane Spicer spoke in favor of the Department of Neighborhoods, sharing personal experiences of navigating bureaucratic hurdles and stating that a dedicated office would help residents access services efficiently. - Marie All expressed trust in city staff and urged unity and patience. - Jack Long quoted Leviticus 19:15–18, calling for fair judgment and neighborly love. - Patricia Peters (second public comment) denounced a flyer she said implied Whitehall should be exclusively Christian, rejecting divisive rhetoric and affirming inclusion of all residents. Discussion Items - Appointment to Parks & Recreation Commission: Councilmember Adkins nominated Leslie McCourt; Councilmember Brown nominated Amanda Waller. Discussion included McCourt’s family legacy (her father started the parks department) and Waller’s demonstrated interest in green spaces. A roll call vote resulted in 4–3 approval of Leslie McCourt (Morrison, Adkins, McCann, Dixon in favor; Brown, Elmore, Harcar against). - Mayor Bivens reported on: a listening session on proposed property tax elimination; a March 2, 2026 State of the City address at the YMCA, including a workforce component and a raffle for a minivan donated by a nonprofit; and a first-ever Founders’ Day celebration in 2026. - Auditor Shaquille Alexander presented a comprehensive financial overview showing the city’s improved fiscal health. Key points: 2024 revenue exceeded expenses by $3.4 million; 2025 ended with a $6.9 million carryover and a $1.5 million reserve; 2026 projections show $44 million revenue vs. $40 million expenses. He rebutted allegations of “creative accounting,” noting clean audit opinions. He also introduced new intern DeJohn Cox. - Attorney Bradley Nicodemus updated on recall procedures per the city charter, explaining the signature threshold (425 for citywide officials), the petition process, and the 30–60 day timeline for a special election if triggered. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 004-2026 (standardizing Accessory Dwelling Units) was postponed (unanimous) to allow for development of a rental registry and further code changes. - Ordinance 010-2026 (supplemental appropriation of $25,000 from State Highway Fund for PMG pavement analysis) was adopted unanimously after suspension of rules. - Resolution 004-2026 (authorizing Mayor to apply for Safe Routes to School grant from ODOT) was adopted unanimously after suspension of rules. - Resolution 006-2026 (approving “then and now” certificates) was adopted unanimously after suspension of rules. - Ordinance 008-2026 (funding for the Department of Neighborhoods) and Resolution 005-2026 (investment policy revisions) were read by title only and will return for further readings. Committee Reports - Standing committee chairs provided brief updates, noting most committees had met and would meet again next week. No new legislation from Administration & Financial Management, Community & Elder Advocacy, Community Standards & Enforcement, Economic Development, Infrastructure & Services, Public Safety, or Parks & Recreation beyond what appeared on the agenda.

The Whitehall City Council Committee Meeting convened on February 10, 2026, at 6:30 PM to discuss a full slate of legislative items, committee reports, and presentations. Key highlights included a resolution to apply for a Safe Routes to School grant, a supplemental appropriation for a pavement management assessment, an in-depth presentation on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and extensive discussion regarding the proposed Department of Neighborhoods and updates to the Council's Rules of Procedure. Several items were advanced to future meetings for formal action. Presentations - Mayor Michael T. Bivens presented a proclamation recognizing Black History Month. - Carlie Boos, Executive Director of the Affordable Housing Alliance Central Ohio, gave a detailed presentation on the regional housing crisis and the potential impact of ADUs. Discussion Items Safe Routes to School Grant (Resolution 004-2026) Public Service Director Casey Rowlands presented a resolution authorizing the Mayor to apply for a 100% reimbursable ODOT Safe Routes to School Planning & Development Grant. Director Rowlands explained the grant would fund a School Travel Plan for all five Whitehall schools, addressing the lack of sidewalks and the fact that 80% of students are walkers. The application deadline is March 6, 2026. A motion to advance the resolution was made and seconded. Department of Neighborhoods Funding (Ordinance 008-2026) A second reading of an ordinance amending appropriations for the Department on Neighborhoods sparked significant debate. - Economic Development Director: Expressed concerns that the legislation sets a negative precedent for non-charter departments, potentially signaling instability to businesses and staff. Argued the department is needed to address resident issues (landlord-tenant, elderly care) that currently fall through the cracks. - Councilmember Harcar: Shared a personal story of assisting a 91-year-old veteran who had fallen, arguing a Department of Neighborhoods could provide critical follow-up and support for such cases. - Mayor Bivens: Stated that Whitehall has the highest poverty, eviction, and infant mortality rates in Central Ohio, underscoring the need for a dedicated department. He noted that only a third of a percent of the budget is allocated to the department and that seven finalists are being interviewed for the director position. - Councilmember Dixon: Expressed that his previous concerns about the department's redundancy were not given proper respect. Questioned why a department not needed since 1947 is required now. - Councilmember Brown: Framed the decision as a choice between investing in a Department of Neighborhoods or spending more on cleaning curbs. Council Rules of Procedure (2026-2027 Term) - City Attorney Nicodemus: Suggested the council codify specific, commonly used Robert's Rules motions into their own rules to ensure everyone operates from the same understanding, reducing confusion and friction. - Councilmember Morrison: Supported strict adherence to rules to prevent what he termed a "circus" atmosphere and ensure professionalism. - Councilmember Dixon: Argued the problem for him was personal arguments rather than a lack of rules. - Councilmember Harcar: Proposed adding rules to prohibit recording of executive sessions and requiring council members to review legislation and supporting materials in advance of meetings. - Outcome: After a brief discussion, the council voted to postpone the detailed review to later in the meeting to allow a scheduled presentation. Later, due to the late hour and absence of key members, the discussion was postponed entirely to the next committee meeting in two weeks. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) / Ordinance 004-2026 Carlie Boos presented extensive research on ADUs, covering their history, current use, and policy implications. - Key Data: 53,000 Franklin County families pay over 50% of income on housing. 83% of Central Ohioans support ADUs. ADU construction costs are estimated at $150–$225 per square foot. - Council Discussion: Topics included potential for absentee landlord exploitation, cost barriers, property value impact, and spillover effects on neighbors. Boos argued that high construction costs and mortgage requirements typically limit ADU tenants to family members or known individuals for the foreseeable future. - Legislative Update (Director Russell): Announced a planned postponement of the third reading to bundle the ADU ordinance with updates to the city's rental registry. The goal is to create a more robust registry requiring local property agent contact information and potentially opt-in inspections to address council and resident concerns about enforcement. - Multiple councilmembers expressed strong support for the collaborative, bundled approach to address community concerns. Standing Committee Reports - Admin. & Financial Management: Advanced Drafts 2 ($25k pavement assessment), 3 (Investment Policy revisions), and 4 ($6,631 for auditor furniture, $4,200 for basketball jerseys via Then and Now certificates). - Community & Elder Advocacy: No legislation. Chair Harcar shared information on advocacy to end child marriage in Ohio and recognized Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. - Economic Development / Infrastructure / Public Safety: No pending legislation. - Parks & Recreation: Scheduled a special meeting on February 16 to interview Parks & Rec Commission applicants. Reminded the public of the Rise Plan (strategic and parks master plan) open house on February 11. Key Outcomes - Safe Routes to School Grant: Advanced to the next meeting for suspension and adoption (Feb 17). - Neighborhoods Department: Discussion continued; no vote taken. Further deliberation expected. - ADU Legislation / Rental Registry: Third reading and public hearing postponed. Director Russell will return with a combined proposal linking ADU development to an enhanced rental registry and code enforcement standards. - Council Rules: Postponed to the next committee meeting (Feb 24) for final discussion. - Pavement Assessment / Investment Policy / Certificates: Advanced to a vote by the full council. - Parks & Rec Interviews: Special meeting set for Feb 16, 2026.

The Whitehall City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chamber at City Hall. No communications, petitions, or claims were filed since the last meeting. Council approved prior minutes, appointed Trevor Balser as city treasurer, heard a violence-prevention presentation from Impact Safety, received officials' reports, and acted on multiple legislative items, including a failed veto override, a unanimously adopted supplemental appropriation, and a tabled removal resolution. Consent Calendar - A motion to approve the January 20, 2026 agenda and regular meeting minutes and the January 27, 2026 agenda and committee meeting minutes was approved unanimously. Treasurer Appointment - Council appointed Trevor Balser as Whitehall's next city treasurer by a 4-3 vote. Voting yes: McCann, Dixon, Morrison, and Adkins. Voting no: Brown, Elmore, and Harcar. Councillor Elmore expressed concern that some council members asked no questions during the interview process. Auditor Alexander described the treasurer's post as part-time with a salary of about $15,000, requiring daytime flexibility, and said he wanted a forward-thinking partner who puts the city's business first. Balser was not yet sworn in at the time of the meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - During the first public comment period, a 17-year Whitehall resident called for the resignation or removal of Ward One Councilmember Gerald Dixon, asking council members to think about what they would do if their own child reported inappropriate conduct. - A resident said the current recall efforts were deeply concerning and that people were being targeted for the wrong reasons, including support for refugee integration and community revitalization. The speaker criticized leaders who fail to read legislation or avoid civic responsibilities, praised Councilmembers Harcar, Elmore, and Brown, and said Whitehall should not silence direct, passionate engagement. - During the second public comment period, a resident expressed strong support for the Department of Neighborhoods, citing food-insecure residents and children in Whitehall, and urged council to vote positively, saying $165,000 is a modest amount and this is a moral issue rather than just a budget issue. Special Presentation: Impact Safety - Julie Harmon, Executive Director, and Venica Miller, Program Manager (identified as 'Venisa Miller' in the transcript), presented Impact Safety's mission to build safety 'from the inside out' through empowerment programming. They outlined a phased approach: awareness and shared language, communication workshops, response and accountability policies, survivor-centered and restorative justice activities, and evaluation and sustainability. They noted that most abuse comes from people known to victims and that 80% of abuse against seniors is by someone they know. Council members thanked them; no formal action was taken. Standing Committee Reports - Standing committee chairs reported that their committees met, minutes are on file, and each committee planned to meet again next Tuesday at or after 6:30 p.m. Officials' Reports - Mayor Michael T. Bivens congratulated the Whitehall Education Foundation, Hall of Fame inductees, students and coaches who shoveled snow for vulnerable residents, and the street team for snow removal. He announced the Legal Rams' district court competition, Black History Month banners honoring Dr. Buhari Muhammad, Terry Anderson, Roman Johnson, and Clint Elmore, a free Valentine's Day wedding event at City Hall, and told a story about an elderly woman who revived after her granddaughter kissed her forehead. - City Attorney Bradley S. Nicodemus thanked court staff for handling snow-related closures and rearranged dockets. - Auditor Shaquille Alexander reported that as of January 31, 2026, the general fund unexpended balance, less encumbrances, was $5.8 million; January revenues were $1.85 million, including $1.5 million in income tax, $92,000 in cannabis tax, and $78,000 in Franklin County revenue sharing; investment income was $22,000; the portfolio was about $29 million with a weighted average estimated yield of 3.21%. He also said claims that the mayor withheld school payments were 'unequivocally false,' describing the issue as an inherited, structural and documented breakdown discovered in 2024 and resolved through reconciliation with schools and new controls. - Director of Public Service Casey Rowlands praised the snow crew, reporting over 600 man-hours, 575 tons of road salt, and over 5,000 miles plowed during the storm, and thanked student athletes and residents for helping neighbors. He supported favorable consideration of Ordinance 009-2026. - Public Safety Director Van Gregg was absent; no report was given. Legislation Third Reading: Ordinance 133-2025 (Veto Override) - Councilman Dixon moved to override the mayor's veto and adopt Ordinance 133-2025, which would amend Title Three of the legislative code to prohibit interference with council communications. The motion was seconded by Councilman Morrison. President Potter explained that overriding the veto required two-thirds, or five affirmative votes. The roll call was 4-3 in favor of overriding (McCann, Dixon, Morrison, and Adkins yes; Brown, Elmore, and Harcar no), so the veto was sustained and the ordinance was not adopted. Second Reading: Ordinance 004-2026 (Accessory Dwelling Units) - Ordinance 004-2026 was read by title only. It would amend Section 1116.03 and enact Section 1116.04 to standardize the development of accessory dwelling units in Whitehall. No vote was taken. First Reading: Ordinance 008-2026 (Department of Neighborhoods Appropriation) - Ordinance 008-2026 was read by title only. It would amend Ordinance 118-2025 to make appropriations for current General Fund (101) expenses for the Department of Neighborhoods and declare an emergency. No vote was taken. Ordinance 009-2026 (Aetna Road TIP Supplemental Appropriation) - Auditor Alexander explained that an identical appropriation had been approved in October, but the check was not cut because of issues with the developer and the timing of the new budget; the money is available, but new authorization is needed and the matter is time-sensitive. Council unanimously suspended the rules and then adopted Ordinance 009-2026 by a 7-0 vote. The ordinance authorizes $375,000 from unappropriated monies in the Win Petty Fund 279 to the Aetna Road TIP Expense Account 279.000.50,008 and declares an emergency. Resolution 003-2026 (Removal of Gerald Dixon) - Resolution 003-2026, resolving to remove Gerald Dixon from Council and declaring an emergency, was read by title. Councilman Morrison moved to table the resolution, seconded by Councilman McCann. President Potter said there would be no discussion. After a point of clarification, the city attorney said a motion to table is a procedural matter. The roll call was 4-3 to table (McCann, Dixon, Morrison, and Adkins yes; Brown, Elmore, and Harcar no), and the resolution was tabled. Key Outcomes - Approved the January 20 and January 27 meeting minutes unanimously. - Appointed Trevor Balser as city treasurer by a 4-3 vote. - Failed to override the mayor's veto of Ordinance 133-2025; the veto stands after a 4-3 vote. - Adopted Ordinance 009-2026 by a 7-0 vote. - Tabled Resolution 003-2026 by a 4-3 vote. - Conducted a second reading of Ordinance 004-2026 and a first reading of Ordinance 008-2026; both remain pending. Community Date Board - President Potter noted it was Black History Month and looked forward to the mayor's proclamation. Councillor Dixon mentioned a March 21 'Stimulating Saturday' STEM education event hosted by See Brilliance, featuring adults discussing nutrition practices. Councilmember Comments - McCann praised the high school students who shoveled sidewalks and the mayor's story about the public safety miracle. - Dixon thanked residents for attending, praised the service department, and lamented that some large businesses had not shoveled their sidewalks. - Brown congratulated the Legal Rams and the service department, said he believed Balser would do well but would have liked more time to consider other treasurer candidates, and asked the city attorney how a tabled motion could be reconsidered. The city attorney said a simple majority could bring the motion back. After Brown continued to discuss the matter involving Ward One Councilmember Gerald Dixon, President Potter cautioned him and then adjourned the meeting.

The Whitehall City Council held its committee meeting on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, beginning at 6:30 PM and adjourning at approximately 9:31 PM. The meeting included a public presentation from the local FOP president, a council rules discussion for the 2026–2027 term, introduction of draft appropriations legislation, and reports from all standing committees. No final votes were taken on the draft legislation. Public Comments & Testimony - Brian Steele, President of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), addressed council before the regular agenda. He said the FOP represents 4,700 law enforcement officers across 29 Central Ohio agencies, and that Whitehall is the only agency where union members have voted no confidence in the chief. He cited a membership survey with about 36 responses from roughly 46 active officers showing low morale, anxiety, anger, and depression at work, and said 46 officers have left the department since Chief Mike Christman arrived, including 29 by resignation as of about a year ago. - Steele described grievances over alleged ticket and arrest quotas, Fourth Amendment concerns, retaliation against grievance representatives, termination of officers Ortega and Canon, blocked emails from the union to council members and staff, and a pending First Amendment lawsuit. He denied allegations that he exposed an undercover officer, threatened the safety director, or made threats against the chief or his family. He called for a third-party independent investigation and said he remains willing to compromise. - Council members asked Steele about labor-management meetings, performance measures, campaign donations, and survey validity. Steele responded that prior labor-management meetings have broken down, that eight or nine arbitrations are pending, and that performance expectations in Whitehall function as quotas. He cited one officer who had 16 arrests, 17 reports, 26 citations, and 47 traffic stops in a month yet was still told they were below department averages. - Several council members also made remarks about Whitehall police history and the need for unity, with some pushing back on Steele's claims and others thanking him for his presentation. Discussion Items Council Rules of Procedure for 2026–2027 - Council members reviewed the current rules alongside model rules from Reynoldsburg and Gahanna. They compiled a list of possible changes rather than debating each item in detail. - Proposed changes included adjusting the order of business, moving agenda request and committee agenda deadlines, adding definitions for ordinance, resolution, and motion, removing the outdated motion to adjourn, clarifying presiding officer language, adding timers for debate, prohibiting cell phones at the dais, limiting public comment time, requiring speakers to identify their city of residence, setting sign size and decorum rules, and allowing a single five-minute public comment period as an alternative to two three-minute periods. - Members agreed to email their written proposals and arguments to each other and continue the discussion at a future meeting before voting on individual items. Draft Ordinance No. 008-2026 – Department of Neighborhoods Appropriation - Councilmember Larry Morrison introduced draft ordinance 008-2026, which would amend the 2026 general fund appropriations to zero out funding for the Department of Neighborhoods, including director, assistant-to-director, training and certification, and technology line items, and declare an emergency. - Morrison argued the department would cost about $165,000 plus vehicle and other expenses, likely exceeding $200,000, and that the city could provide resident assistance more cost-effectively through existing staff or a part-time position. - Several council members, including Councilmembers Harcar and Elmore, strongly supported the department, citing the city's roughly 17.2% poverty rate, the complexity of connecting residents to services, and the value of full-time staff focused on resident needs. Councilmember Brown suggested that compromise could include continuing funding with future review rather than an immediate zero-out. - The measure was introduced and seconded, but no vote was taken at this meeting. Third Reading – Ordinance No. 133-2025 - Council noted that Mayor Bivens vetoed Ordinance 133-2025 on January 27, 2026. The ordinance, which would amend Title Three of the legislative code to prohibit interference with council communications and declare an emergency, is scheduled for a vote on February 3, 2026. No discussion was held on it at this meeting. Standing Committee Reports - Administration and Financial Management (Elmore): No drafts or pending legislation; opened and closed at 9:18 PM. - Community and Elder Advocacy (Harcar): No drafts. Chair Harcar announced she will reintroduce legislation next week to remove Councilmember Dixon because the prior measure was advanced without the required three readings and without the two-thirds majority needed to suspend the rules. She said the action is about procedure and due process, and would not be needed if Dixon resigned. A brief dispute over decorum and a point of order followed. - Community Standards and Enforcement (McCann): Ordinance No. 004-2026 received its second reading. It would amend Section 1116.03 and enact Section 1116.04 to standardize accessory dwelling units (ADUs). A Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for February 5, 2026, and a public hearing and third reading are set for February 17, 2026. Council noted the Economic Development Director is working on related rental inspection issues and will present additional ADU information on February 10, 2026. - Economic Development (Dixon): No drafts or pending legislation; opened and closed at 9:28 PM. - Infrastructure, Maintenance and Services (Brown): No drafts. Council received an update that three water line projects and a resurfacing project are moving forward. Brown also thanked street crews for snow removal and noted that some water main breaks are the responsibility of the City of Columbus. - Public Safety (Morrison): No drafts or pending legislation; chair praised safety forces and closed at 9:31 PM. - Parks and Recreation (Adkins): No drafts or pending legislation; closed at 9:31 PM. Key Outcomes - No final votes were taken during the committee meeting. - Draft Ordinance 008-2026 was introduced and seconded; discussion will continue before a future vote. - Council rules proposals were compiled for continued discussion; members will send written arguments to each other ahead of the next meeting. - Councilmember Harcar announced her intent to reintroduce removal legislation for Councilmember Dixon at the next meeting. - Ordinance 133-2025 will be voted on February 3, 2026. - Ordinance 004-2026 (ADUs) is scheduled for a public hearing and third reading on February 17, 2026. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:31 PM.

The Whitehall City Council met at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, in Council Chamber at City Hall. Council approved prior meeting minutes, heard a human trafficking prevention proclamation from Mayor Michael Bivens, adopted multiple ordinances, and considered but failed to remove Councilman Gerald Dixon through Resolution 002-2026. The meeting adjourned at 9:23 p.m. Routine Approvals and Reports - The January 6, 2026 agenda and regular meeting minutes and the January 13, 2026 agenda and committee meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - Standing committee reports were received; committees indicated they would meet again the following Tuesday after 6:30 p.m. - Council voted unanimously to suspend its rules due to a clerical mix-up in the order of officials' reports. - A liquor license transfer notice from the Ohio Division of Liquor Control was presented: ADN Enterprises LLC, 5815 Carrick Square Drive, Columbus, Ohio, to Afrofusion Grill Columbus LLC, 3866 East Main Street, Whitehall, Ohio. - Mayor Bivens reported that the Office on Neighborhoods would begin first-round interviews, with 35 qualified applicants, and that the office was funded at 0.3% of the 2026 operating budget. He also congratulated Councilwoman Lori Elmore on the Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Awards, noting 14 Whitehall high school students received scholarships and the top two received $1,000 each; combined, they had invested nearly $23,000 of personal money over nine years. Human Trafficking Prevention Month Proclamation - Mayor Bivens proclaimed January 2026 as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month in Whitehall. He thanked Councilmember Amy Harcar for requesting the proclamation and noted that a tip and video shared with law enforcement had recently allowed officers to remove an individual from a disparate situation. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Speiser asked the initiators of the recall effort to publicly explain their reasons and said council has a responsibility to protect children. - Maria Martinez Shears, a former Franklin County prosecutor, expressed support for the Whitehall Police Department and Detective Slosser, saying officers were professional and hardworking. She said the dismissal of a felony complaint was procedural and that an ongoing investigation before a grand jury was common. - Corey Benson, a Whitehall resident and parent, said describing a board displaying images of young boys with obscene language as art was profoundly disturbing. He asked council to prioritize child safety and publicly thanked the five members who had voted previously to remove Dixon. - Tara Alston urged council to keep potential victims at the center of the decision and said how this situation is handled affects whether victims come forward. She hoped the next vote would be unanimous. - Autumn Real, a former resident and clinical mental health professional, criticized council decorum and said it was counterintuitive to bring children near someone they considered a danger. - Diane Peters criticized the recall effort and community division, saying it was concerning to remove competent elected officials while leaving an accused pedophile on council. - Brandon Horseman, a lifelong Whitehall resident, said Dixon has a right to an election, should step down if guilty, and deserves an apology if innocent. He also said decisions should not be based on skin color. - Kay Wilson, a former LeaderSpark executive director who worked with Whitehall youth, said she was appalled by the interruptions and lack of decorum from council members and the audience. Discussion Items - Ordinance 133-2025, amending Title Three of the legislative code to prohibit interference with council communications, was amended and adopted. City Attorney Bradley Nicodemus explained its possible relationship to obstruction of official business under state law. Mayor Bivens disputed claims that council had been blocked from email, saying the only limitation was on FOP9.org emails and that related issues were in litigation. Councilmembers Lori Elmore and Devin Brown expressed concerns about administration control of council email. The ordinance passed 4-3, with four votes meaning it did not take effect as an emergency. - Ordinance 002-2026, approving a contract with the Fraternal Order of Police, Ohio Labor Council, Inc., for full-time police dispatchers for January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2028, was adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 003-2026, approving the same FOP contract for part-time police dispatchers for the same term, was adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 004-2026, standardizing accessory dwelling units by amending Section 1116.03 and enacting Section 1116.04, was read by title only as a first reading; no vote was taken. - Ordinance 005-2026, appropriating $56,000 from unappropriated COBRA extended benefits funds to the COBRA expense account, was adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 006-2026, appropriating $20,000 from the plumbing permits fund for plumbing permits expenses, was adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 007-2026, transferring $3,000 from the general fund to the accrued benefit reserve fund, was adopted unanimously. - Resolution 002-2026, resolving to remove Gerald Dixon from council, was taken up after a motion to suspend the rules passed. During debate, Councilmember Elmore read graphic excerpts from police documents; Councilmember Morrison criticized the police department's public handling of the case and said there was insufficient evidence; Councilmember Brown said Dixon had not denied the evidence taken from his home; Councilmember Harcar objected to rushing the vote and silencing public speakers; Dixon said the process was politically motivated and later apologized for a recent parliamentary point of order. The removal resolution failed on a 3-3 vote because six votes were required. Key Outcomes - Minutes of January 6 and January 13, 2026 were approved unanimously. - Ordinance 133-2025 was adopted 4-3, without emergency status. - Ordinances 002-2026, 003-2026, 005-2026, 006-2026, and 007-2026 were adopted unanimously. - Resolution 002-2026 failed by a vote of 3-3, with Councilman Dixon not voting, so Gerald Dixon remained on council. - The city attorney clarified that failed removal legislation is not subject to a mayoral veto, while adopted ordinances are subject to veto. - Council scheduled discussion of council rules for the next week.