Public Meetings - Whitehall, Ohio

Whitehall City Council met on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. The agenda listed a 7:00 p.m. regular meeting; the transcript opens with an agenda meeting that was to reconvene at 7:00 p.m., and the remainder reflects the regular session. President Thomas Potter presided, and Councilmembers Larry Morrison, Amy Harcar, Brian McCann, Mike Adkins, Gerald Dixon, Devin Brown, and Lori Elmore were present. The meeting opened with a moment of silence and the Pledge of Allegiance. Council welcomed new members Adkins and McCann and unanimously adopted two emergency items after suspending rules. Consent Calendar / Routine Business - Approved the December 16, 2025 Agenda and Special Meeting Minutes and the December 16, 2025 Agenda and Regular Meeting Minutes (motion by Harcar, second by Elmore). - Accepted committee appointments and elected a President Pro Tempore. - Verified that each councilmember received copies of agenda legislation; the roll-call verification was unanimous. Public Comments and Testimony - One resident, not identified by name in the transcript, expressed strong support for Mayor Bivens and Councilmembers Elmore and Harcar, called Bivens one of the best mayors in the United States, criticized 'selective outrage' regarding the recall effort, and told the three leaders 'I got your back.' - No one spoke during the second public comment period. Communications, Petitions and Claims - Council received notice from the Ohio Division of Liquor Control for a new C2 and D6 license application for Family Dollar Stores of Ohio, LLC, 5224 East Main Street, Whitehall, Ohio 43213. No action was taken. Discussion Items - Agenda and rules: City Attorney Nicodemus said the printed agenda did not comport with council rules because of the officials' report order and the inclusion of the economic development director. Council suspended its rules for the evening to use the agenda, with the order to be corrected later. A note was also made that the 'Poll Council' name order on the agenda was outdated because of a last-minute change. - Ordinance 133-2025 (second reading): An ordinance amending Title Three legislative code prohibiting interference with council communications and declaring an emergency was read by title only. City Attorney Nicodemus said changes had been made since the first draft to address the mayor's concerns about overbreadth, and further committee review was expected with the two new councilmembers. - Ordinance 001-2026: Authorized the mayor to execute a contract with Franklin County Public Health to provide health services and plumbing inspections for Whitehall and its residents, declaring an emergency. Council suspended rules and adopted it unanimously. - Resolution 001-2026: Adopted the City of Whitehall Cybersecurity Program and authorized the mayor to designate a responsible person. The mayor explained that the program was required for the 2025 financial audit and that failure to pass it could result in an audit finding. Council suspended rules and adopted it unanimously; the IT director was identified as the likely designated person. Officials' Reports - Mayor Bivens: Acknowledged the recall petition effort, defended Councilmembers Harcar and Elmore, publicly asked petition circulators to remove them and put the petition on him, and said he was not afraid. He reported 2025 accomplishments: more than 35 new businesses; nearly 1,000 permits approved; The Enclave on Main opened with 102 dwelling units; 1,000 new residents; ground broken on Aries Lofts, expected to bring nearly 300 units; a new mobile app; paperless timesheets; $1.5 million toward a budget stabilization fund; a new Office on Neighborhoods; nearly 200 families receiving direct assistance; more than 200 receiving emergency food services; more than 100 receiving hygiene kits; nearly 8,000 people connected to employment opportunities; nearly 3,000 people receiving health care screenings; and the 'Whitehall Rise' development blueprint underway. - Auditor Alexander: Reported general fund trends: a $7.7 million carryover in 2021; about $35 million in revenue and just under $37 million in expenses in 2022, with a $5.7 million carryover; financial strain in 2023 after payroll tax issues, noting that 88% of general fund revenue comes from income tax and roughly 45% to half of that is from DSEC; about $40 million in revenue and just over $36 million in expenses in 2024, with a $5.7 million carryover; and preliminary 2025 figures of about $40.7 million in revenue, $39.4 million in expenses, and a $6.9 million carryover, totaling about $7.4 million with the budget stabilization fund. He also said the estimated credit rating improved from single-A to double-A and, responding to being called a DEI hire, cited his record of being twice elected, unanimously appointed by council in 2022, paying his own way through college, graduating with honors, becoming a CPA, passing all four CPA exams on the first attempt with an average score of 91, and working at the fourth largest accounting firm in the world. - City Attorney Nicodemus: Reported that from the second quarter through the end of 2025 the office handled over 2,100 municipal court cases, including over 420 victim-protection-eligible cases such as assault, domestic violence, telecommunications harassment, menacing, and aggravated menacing. He described the mayor's court diversion program with Mr. Owens as reducing recidivism and connecting people to employment, housing, and driver's licenses. - Director of Public Service Rowlands: Distributed an infrastructure recap covering completed 2025 projects, ongoing projects, and 2026/2027 proposals, emphasizing that dates were tentative and estimated. She noted city infrastructure is over 60 years old, the city maintains 144 lane miles, and pothole patching is an ongoing 24/7/365 operation. In response to questions, she said projects can move between years depending on weather and funding. - Economic Development Director Russell was not present. The treasurer position is vacant; applications are being accepted through January 23. Public Safety Director Gregg was not present. Community Date Board - Mayor Bivens announced the Martin Luther King Scholarship Breakfast on January 19 at the YMCA, with scholarship applicants eligible for up to $1,000 toward college education. Details were said to be on the city website. Councilmember Statements (Poll of Council) - Morrison thanked attendees, wished everyone a happy new year, and welcomed the new members. - Harcar welcomed the new members and defended herself, Mayor Bivens, and Councilmember Elmore in response to recall efforts. She said recall should be grounded in objective violations of law or duty, not personal discomfort, selective outrage, or tone-policing, and criticized inconsistent accountability, adding that assessments of tone can be shaped by implicit bias. She said she would not align with anti-immigrant, anti-LGBTQ, or anti-survivor positions and would serve all residents. - McCann thanked staff, committed to finding common ground and uniting the city, and said he would make an effort to get to know all councilmembers. - Adkins thanked the community for its support, noted he is a lifelong resident, and said he looked forward to working with everyone. - Dixon congratulated the new members, defended Auditor Alexander as the best choice for treasurer and said DEI had nothing to do with his appointment, called for stricter adherence to Robert's Rules, and said that if he had remained at the December 16 meeting he would have voted no on the budget and on the Department of Neighborhoods. He also referenced the principle that one is innocent until proven guilty. - Brown seconded the idea of upholding professionalism, thanked Director Rowlands, and reported on 2025 economic development work, including school engagement and community conversations. He said he respected due process but believed it was wildly inappropriate for Mr. Dixon to continue serving in a position of public trust and leadership. President Potter stopped him for naming a councilmember; Brown said he would continue to say it openly. - Elmore welcomed the new members, asked for respect and adherence to council rules, noted more than 40 years in public service, and echoed Harcar and Brown in calling for unity and professionalism. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved; committee appointments accepted; President Pro Tempore elected. - Rules were suspended to allow the printed agenda for the evening. - Ordinance 001-2026 adopted unanimously (7-0). - Resolution 001-2026 adopted unanimously (7-0). - Ordinance 133-2025 remained in second reading for further review. - Treasurer position remains vacant; applications accepted through January 23. - Meeting adjourned at 8:01 p.m.

The Whitehall City Council met on December 16, 2025, for its final regular meeting of the year. The meeting was dominated by two major issues: the failed vote to expel Councilmember Gerald Dixon and the adoption of the city's 2026 budget. The meeting also featured the presentation of the Auditor of State Award to retiring Auditor Steve Quincel and farewells to departing council members Joanna Heck and Amy Smith. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the December 2, 2025, regular meeting and December 9, 2025, committee meeting were approved unanimously. - Verification of copies was confirmed by roll call. Public Comments & Testimony - Jasmin Starlink expressed profound disappointment in the council's failure to expel Councilmember Dixon, calling the alleged conduct "disgusting and wicked." - Tara Alston, speaking as a survivor, stated the vote was "disheartening" and argued it negatively impacts victims coming forward. - Tina Matthews stated she was "disgusted and appalled" and directly criticized Councilmember Morrison for his dissenting vote, asking if he had grandchildren. - David Jackson argued that leaders are held to a higher standard and the accusation alone damages the city's reputation, urging removal in the future. Discussion Items - Expulsion Vote on Councilmember Gerald Dixon: Prior to the meeting, City Attorney Nicodemus informed Dixon his bond conditions restricted contact with children. After consulting his attorney and the court, Dixon left the meeting. A motion to expel him resulted in a 5-1 vote (Morrison dissenting), which failed to meet the required threshold. Mayor Michael Bivens condemned the outcome, criticizing Morrison for not reviewing the evidence. Morrison defended his vote, stating he conducted independent research and represented his constituents. Council members Heck and Brown emphasized there were no coordinated discussions among the voting majority. - 2026 Budget Adoption (Ord. 118 & 119): The city adopted its 2026 operating budget. Ordinance 118 (General Fund, $44.99 million) passed 6-1. Ordinance 119 (Special Revenue, $35.61 million) passed 6-0. Mayor Bivens highlighted the $6.9 million carryover into 2026. - Department of Neighborhoods Created (Ord. 127): Adopted 6-1. Councilmember Morrison voiced fiscal concerns, advocating for expansion of existing services. Other members supported creating a new department to better reach underserved residents. - Special Permit for Drive-Through (Ord. 120): Approved 6-1 for the Wright-Patt Credit Union drive-through at 0 S. Hamilton Road. - Interference with Council Communications (Ord. 133): A motion to suspend the rules failed 1-5, sending the ordinance to a second reading. Council and the City Attorney noted the language required further refinement. - Treasurer's Annual Financial Report: Treasurer Shaquille Alexander presented a detailed breakdown. He reported 90% of general fund revenue comes from income tax, highlighted a 2025 budget surplus, and noted the Budget Stabilization Fund holds $1.51 million towards its $6 million operational reserve goal. Key Outcomes - Expulsion Failed: Motion to expel Councilmember Gerald Dixon failed (5-1). The matter may be revisited by the new council in 2026. - 2026 Budgets Adopted: Ordinance 118-2025 (6-1) and Ordinance 119-2025 (6-0) were adopted. - Department of Neighborhoods Created: Ordinance 127-2025 (6-1). - Drive-Through Special Permit Approved: Ordinance 120-2025 (6-1). - School Compensation Agreement Approved: Resolution 48-2025 (6-0-1, Heck abstained). - Communication Ordinance Delayed: Ordinance 133-2025 deferred to second reading after suspension of rules failed (1-5). - Personnel Table and Fees Updated: Ordinances 129, 130, and 131 adopted. - Water Line Grant Accepted: Resolution 49-2025 authorizing the mayor to accept an ARPA construction grant for East Main Street water lines. - Farewells and Transitions: The meeting marked the final official session for retiring Auditor Steve Quincel and departing council members Amy Smith and Joanna Heck. Treasurer Shaquille Alexander will succeed Quincel as City Auditor.

The Whitehall City Council held a special meeting on December 16, 2025, to consider the removal of Councilman Gerald Dixon for gross misconduct. City Attorney Nicodemus outlined the legal framework, explaining that the council was to determine if the circumstances warranted removal under Charter Section 7, not to decide criminal guilt. A unanimous vote of the six remaining council members was required for removal. Discussion Items - Legal Framework: The City Attorney explained removal for gross misconduct does not require a connection to official duties or a criminal conviction. He noted that the discussion had to be public because Ohio law prohibits executive sessions for the removal of an elected official. - Sponsor's Statement (Councilmember Amy Harcar): Ms. Harcar read a letter requesting Mr. Dixon's resignation, arguing that the circumstances undermined public confidence and constituted an administrative matter council must act on. - Councilmember Amy Smith: Ms. Smith stated the allegations fall squarely under gross misconduct and that it is not Mr. Dixon's place to remain on council while the matters are pending in court. - Councilmember Devin Brown: Mr. Brown emphasized the need to send a message to victims and uphold integrity, stating the alleged activities break public trust. - Councilmember Jo Anna Heck: Ms. Heck expressed concern for children and vulnerable residents, questioning how Mr. Dixon could fully participate given a court order to stay away from children. - Councilmember Larry Morrison: Mr. Morrison argued the process was being rushed, noting Mr. Dixon had an upcoming court date and no official duty remained for the year. - Councilman Gerald Dixon: Mr. Dixon declined to speak substantively, stating he would wait for the justice system process to conclude. - Procedural Clarification: The City Attorney confirmed that individual meetings council members held with the police did not violate the Open Meetings Act as they did not constitute a quorum. Key Outcomes - Vote on Resolution 051-2025: Council voted on the resolution to remove Councilman Dixon from office. - Vote Tally: The roll call vote was: Larry Morrison (No), Amy Smith (Yes), Jo Anna Heck (Yes), Lori Elmore (Yes), Devin Brown (Yes), Amy Harcar (Yes). - Result: The resolution failed. The charter requires six affirmative votes for removal, but it only received five. - Remaining Term: Councilman Dixon retains his seat for his current term, which ends December 31, 2025. - Future Term: The City Attorney stated a new action would be required for removal in Mr. Dixon's next term, beginning January 1, 2026.

The Whitehall City Council convened for an agenda meeting (6:40 PM) and regular meeting (7:00 PM) on December 2, 2025. The council addressed a public hearing for a drive-through facility, adopted ordinances amending zoning to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs), authorized property acquisition and appropriations for the Etna Road TIF, and discussed various administrative matters including the safety director position transitioning to full-time. One council member was excused. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from November 15, 2025 (Agenda & Special Budget Presentation), November 18, 2025 (Agenda & Regular Meeting), and November 25, 2025 (Agenda & Committee Meeting) were approved unanimously (6-0). Public Hearing - Ordinance 120-2025: Public hearing was held for a special permit to allow drive-through facilities (ITMs) at 0 S. Hamilton Road, owned by Wright-Patt Credit Union. Economic Development Director Jackie Russell presented the proposal, noting the drive-through would face Hamilton Road, not nearby apartments, and feature downcast lighting. Council members raised concerns about headlight glare from vehicles and landscaping to mitigate it. Staff recommended favorable consideration; the item will go to Planning Commission on December 4, 2025. No opponents spoke. Public Comments & Testimony - Anna Waller (address not stated) spoke in support of ADU legislation but expressed concern that the ordinance as drafted does not limit the number of ADUs per parcel, which she stated is common in other municipalities. She requested a cap, noting Columbus recently passed ADU legislation by-right with no owner-occupancy requirement but with limits. She thanked the council for their work. Discussion Items - Ordinance 112-2025 (ADU Zoning): Council and staff discussed additional parameters for ADUs. Economic Development Director Russell confirmed that staff will return in January 2025 with supplementary standards including: limiting the number of ADUs, requiring permanent foundation-based structures (not RVs/trailers), and possibly owner-occupancy or same-owner requirements. She noted that enforcement of owner-occupancy is challenging; Westerville and Dublin only enforce upon other code violations. Councilman Dixon expressed trust in staff and noted council retains the right to repeal legislation. The ordinance was introduced and adopted after debate. - Safety Director Position (Transition to Full-Time): Mayor Bivens explained the move from part-time to full-time is driven by the need for emergency management planning following 2025 emergencies (flooding, oil spill, gas leaks). The change is reflected in a budget amendment to Ordinance 118-2025. - Utility Rate Increase: Director of Public Service Casey Rowlands reported that Columbus utility updates may increase Whitehall residents' water/sewer bills by $4–$8 per month starting 2026, pending confirmation. - Budget and Appropriations: Ordinance 118-2025 (2026 general fund budget) was amended to reflect the safety director salary change but will be voted on at the December 16 meeting. Multiple other ordinances were read by title only. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 112-2025 (ADU zoning amendment) was adopted 6-0. Staff will bring additional standards in January 2025. - Ordinance 113-2025 (authorizing property acquisition from Columbus Housing Partnership at 0 Etna Road) was adopted 6-0. - Ordinance 114-2025 (appropriation of $375,000 from WIMPITE Fund 279 to Etna Road TIF expense account) was adopted 6-0. - Ordinance 132-2025 (supplemental appropriation of $244,259.79 from State Highway Fund 211 to highway materials account) was adopted 6-0 after suspension of rules. - Ordinance 118-2025 (2026 appropriations) was amended but not adopted; will be voted on December 16, 2025. - Other ordinances (119, 120, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, Resolution 048) were read by title only and will proceed to further readings. Other Reports - Mayor Bivens acknowledged street department crews for clearing 4.5 inches of snow (record for December 2), thanked seniors for attending the final Coffee & Chat, and noted the senior center and police department serve as warming centers. - City Auditor Steve Quincel reported engaging Julian & Grube for transition assistance and announced that the city received the inaugural VIP Impact Award from Software Solutions for excellence in use of their software. - Treasurer's Report: General fund balance $7.7 million as of October 31, 2025 (48% increase year-over-year). - Economic Development Director Russell reported the comprehensive plan with OHM is underway; public engagement begins January 2025. - Community Date Board: Announced upcoming events: Winter Wonderland (December 5), Snow Globe Social (December 6), Breakfast with Santa (December 13), and leaf pickup schedule changes. Council Comments - Council members thanked the service department for snow removal, congratulated staff on the award, and noted World AIDS Day. Councilman Brown encouraged continued community engagement. - Councilman Morrison and others praised the ADU ordinance as a step toward diverse housing and affordability.

The Whitehall City Council Committee of the Whole met on November 25, 2025, at 6:30 PM to discuss several legislative items, including proposed salary increases for 2026, the creation of a Department of Neighborhoods, a school compensation agreement, building fee updates, and zoning changes for accessory dwelling units. The meeting featured extensive debate on budget priorities, employee retention, and community engagement. No final votes were taken; most ordinances and resolutions will proceed to third readings and potential adoption on December 16, 2025. Discussion Items - Ordinance 129-2025 (Salary Schedule Amendments): Proposed changes to salary ranges for numerous city positions to align with the 2026 budget. Councilmember Dixon questioned large increases for certain roles (e.g., Clerk of Courts at 22.4%, Recreation Director at 21.37%). Staff explained the adjustments were based on the MORPC salary survey, union contract changes (e.g., permit specialist), and the need for competitive wages to retain talent. The director of public safety is changing from part-time to full-time, raising the salary from $30,000 to $54,900. - Ordinance 130-2025 (Table of Authorized Personnel): Updates to position titles and authorized counts, including adding a full-time custodian, two part-time administrative assistants, and an additional firefighter (step 29). Council members clarified the change from one full-time to two part-time administrative assistants in the service department. - Ordinance 118-2025 & 119-2025 (2026 Budget Appropriations): The general fund budget totals $44,959,351.31, and special revenue funds total $36,174,599.22. Councilmembers debated salary increases, with some arguing that the city should pay competitive wages to avoid turnover, while others expressed concern about the impact on taxpayers. Treasurer Quentzel noted the general fund is 85% funded by income tax and that the city has a projected surplus. The numbers will be adjusted to reflect the public safety director salary change. - Ordinance 127-2025 (Creation of Department of Neighborhoods): Proposed to establish a new department with a Director of Neighborhoods and an Events and Advancement Coordinator (budgeted at $165,000). Councilman Dixon voiced strong opposition, calling it government overreach and suggesting the funds be used for code enforcement support or a council assistant. Others, including Mayor’s staff and council members, defended the need for boots-on-the-ground engagement, citing food insecurity, rental issues, and low attendance at town halls. Discussion included potential overlap with existing roles and future renter’s rights legislation. - Resolution 048-2025 (School Compensation Agreement): Authorizes the mayor to enter into a 30-year agreement with Whitehall City Schools setting a uniform percentage of income tax sharing for tax abatement projects. The agreement also includes a flat rate payment to catch up unpaid amounts from 2021 onward. The school board approved this on November 20, 2025. - Ordinance 128-2025 (TIF/Economic Development Appropriation): Appropriates $331,130.74 from the Etna Road TIF fund and $626,553.69 from the Economic Development Fund to cover school compensation and incentives. This resolves past miscalculations and establishes a clear payment process. - Ordinance 131-2025 (Building Fee Schedule Update): Amends the building code to increase fees for permits (first increase in over 10 years) and simplify fee calculations with flat rates. Fees are still on the low end compared to similar cities. All fees must now be paid at time of permit drop-off. - Ordinance 112-2025 (Accessory Dwelling Units – Zoning Change): Changes ADUs from a special permit to a by-right use in residential zones. Staff detailed six requirements (e.g., cannot exceed 50% of main house size, must meet setbacks, compatible materials, one entrance). Council debated potential for investor-owned rentals and enforcement. Supporters cited aging-in-place and housing density benefits. Staff noted that short-term rentals under 90 days remain subject to a special permit. - Other Items: Ordinance 113-2025 (property acquisition for Etna Road), Ordinance 114-2025 (TIF appropriation of $375,000 for that purchase), Ordinance 120-2025 (special permit for Wright Patt Credit Union drive-through at S. Hamilton Road) – all discussed without objection. Key Outcomes - Motions to advance Ordinance 129-2025 and 130-2025 to second reading were made and seconded. - Motions to advance Ordinance 127-2025, Resolution 048-2025, and Ordinance 128-2025 to third reading were made and seconded. - Ordinance 131-2025 (building fees) and Ordinance 112-2025 (ADUs) were moved forward; both will have second readings before final adoption. - Ordinances 113-2025, 114-2025, and 120-2025 are scheduled for third reading and adoption on December 2 and December 16, 2025, respectively. - Staff will compile renter’s rights legislation options for future council consideration. - The city successfully applied for Ohio demolition dollars for properties on Yerling and Elaine, with COSIC covering full costs. - Broad Street phase three paving is scheduled for December 5, 2025. - Council thanked staff and community partners for Thanksgiving food distribution events (over 1,100 turkey dinners).

On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, the Whitehall City Council held its agenda review at approximately 6:42 p.m. and its regular committee/council meeting from 7:00 p.m. to 7:44 p.m., chaired by President Thomas M. Potter. Council approved prior minutes, received committee and official reports, held a public hearing on proposed ADU zoning changes, adopted six appropriations/fund transfer ordinances and two resolutions, and advanced 2026 budget and other legislation. Councilmembers Devin Brown and Amy Smith were absent and excused. Consent Calendar - Council approved the November 5, 2025 agenda and regular meeting minutes, and the November 12, 2025 emergency special meeting and committee meeting minutes. Motion by Councilmember Dixon, seconded by Councilmember Morrison; all present members voted yes. Agenda Review (Pre-Meeting) - Staff reviewed the evening’s agenda. For Ordinance 120-2025 (Wright-Patt Credit Union drive-through at 0 S. Hamilton Road), Council confirmed the public hearing would be held December 2, the Planning Commission would review it December 4, and the vote would occur December 16. - Economic Development Director Jackie Russell explained that Ordinance 128-2025 would make a combined payment to Whitehall City Schools of $957,684.43 owed under TIF and other tax incentive agreements. The payment would be split between Fund 279 ($331,130.74) and the Economic Development Fund ($626,553.69) because of statutory TIF compensation requirements. Public Comments & Testimony - Pastor Julius Lancaster of 314 Church (175 Fairway Boulevard) reported on the church’s “Buy One, Give One” food initiative, saying it had served almost 250 Whitehall residents over the last three Sundays and was wiped out this past Sunday. He announced a Thanksgiving giveaway on Monday, November 24 at 6 p.m. and donation times Tuesday 6–8 p.m., Wednesday 6:30–8 p.m., and Thursday 7–9 p.m.; monetary donations and baby formula are also accepted. - Councilmember Dixon read an emailed public comment from Duana Boyman. Boyman thanked councilmembers who attend meetings but expressed concern that some on the dais have prioritized “tantrum and name calling” over city business; she urged council to check egos at the door and called on the Council President to maintain order consistently and fairly. - A second public speaker asserted that Ordinance 112-2025 violates and is noncompliant with “charter section and C” and said the city should hold a new public hearing and go back to the Planning Commission. - A community calendar speaker announced the December 5 Winter Wonderland event from 6–8 p.m. and Snow Gold Social adult event from 5–8 p.m., plus a December 13 Breakfast with Santa from 9–11:30 a.m. Public Hearing: Ordinance 112-2025 - Council opened the public hearing at 7:15 p.m. Proponent Jackie Russell, Economic Development Director, testified that the ordinance would amend Part 11 of the Zoning Code (Tables 1103.02, 1103.03, and 1108.01) to make accessory dwelling units (ADUs) a by-right use rather than requiring a special use permit. ADUs include mother-in-law suites, carriage homes, and attached or detached living quarters. - Russell said by-right approval would require only a building permit (approximately two weeks), while the current special use permit process takes at least six and a half weeks plus another two weeks for permitting. The Planning Commission gave a favorable recommendation. - In response to Council questions, Russell said ADUs may be rented to long-term tenants, but short-term rentals such as Airbnb/VRBO would still require a special permit. ADUs may be located anywhere on a property if zoning regulations such as setbacks and lot coverage are met; variances are possible. Russell did not know the maximum number of ADUs allowed per property and agreed to follow up. - No opponents spoke. The hearing was closed at 7:19 p.m. Standing Committee and Officials’ Reports - Standing committee chairs reported that the Administration and Financial Management, Community and Elder Advocacy, Community Standards and Enforcement, Economic Development, Infrastructure/Maintenance/Services, Public Safety, and Parks and Recreation committees each met the prior week; minutes are on file and next meetings are scheduled. - Mayor Michael T. Bivens reported that the Board of Elections was expected to certify the 2025 election by November 24; congratulated successful candidates and the Fairway overlay initiative petition committee; and said the city will honor the initiative petition despite the City Attorney’s advice to challenge it on constitutional grounds. The city is mapping the overlay, notifying impacted residents, and planning town halls. - The Mayor also announced a Thanksgiving giveaway on November 20 at John Bishop Park with NBC4 and Urban One, expecting 1,000–1,500 people; Antonio Gordon’s community dinner at the YMCA on Saturday; and recognized Pastor Lancaster’s service to more than 240 food-insecure Whitehall residents. He highlighted the youth advisory council’s State House trip, the Legal Rams mock court team, and the MLK Scholarship theme supplied by Councilmember Elmore. - Treasurer Shaquille Alexander called the 2026 budget strong and balanced, stated the city is projecting a 2025 General Fund surplus not including the $1.5 million budget stabilization reserve, and thanked the Auditor and Mayor. - Director of Public Service Casey Rowlands said residents should see significantly fewer cones and barrels by December 1, and noted police seized illegal firearms after a speeding stop on Yearling Road. - City Attorney Bradley Nicodemus and Director of Economic Development Jackie Russell gave brief reports; Auditor Steve Quincel and Public Safety Director Van Gregg were absent. Russell reminded Council of the ED411 economic development forum on December 5/6 with networking starting at 8 a.m. and programming from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Under communications, Council noted the November 17 Whitehall Parks agenda and an Ohio Division of Liquor Control notice for a new C2 license for Addis Ababa Grocery LLC, 157 Fairway Boulevard. Legislation Readings - No legislation was on third reading. - Second reading (by title only): Ordinance 112-2025 (ADU zoning amendment), Ordinance 113-2025 (acquisition of 0 Etna Road property from Columbus Housing Partnership, Inc.), and Ordinance 114-2025 ($375,000 appropriation from Fund 279 to the Etna Road TIF expense account). - First reading (by title only): Ordinance 118-2025, appropriating $44,959,351.31 for 2026 General Fund, Street, and State Highway Materials expenses; Ordinance 119-2025, appropriating $36,174,599.22 for 2026 special revenue, internal service, and fiduciary accounts; Ordinance 120-2025, special permit for drive-through at 0 S. Hamilton Road (Wright-Patt Credit Union); Ordinance 127-2025, creating the Department of Neighborhoods; Ordinance 128-2025, school compensation appropriations; and Resolution 48-2025, authorizing a school compensation agreement with Whitehall City Schools. Key Outcomes - Adopted unanimously (5-0, with all present members voting yes) after suspension of rules: - Ordinance 121-2025: $77,648.85 transfer from General Fund 101 to Debt Service Fund 401. - Ordinance 122-2025: $141,620.00 transfer from Fund 279 to Debt Service Fund 401. - Ordinance 123-2025: $13,651.75 transfer from General Fund 101 to Debt Service Fund 401. - Ordinance 124-2025: $456,623.32 transfer from Water Utility Fund 841 to Debt Service Fund 401. - Ordinance 125-2025: $35,000 supplemental appropriation from State Highway Fund 211 to State Highway Material and Miscellaneous Expense Account 211.000.51100. - Ordinance 126-2025: $20,000 supplemental appropriation from COBRA Extended Benefits Fund 501 to the COBRA Expense Account 501.000.50000. - Resolution 46-2025: authorizing a real estate transfer agreement for 494 S. Yearling Road and 559 S. Elaine Road. - Resolution 47-2025: authorizing agreements with the Central Ohio Community Improvement Corporation to apply for and receive state demolition funds. - Next steps: Ordinance 120-2025 is scheduled for Planning Commission December 4, public hearing December 2, and Council vote December 16. Ordinance 112-2025 received second reading; remaining first-reading legislation is expected to continue through the legislative process. Council stood adjourned at 7:44 p.m.