City Council opened its first meeting of the year by welcoming newly elected members, approving routine organizational motions, and receiving a series of administrative updates ranging from public safety staffing to park improvements and economic development challenges.
Newly elected council members include Devin Palmer, representing the 1st Ward; Mick Lile, representing the 4th Ward; and Wes Easton, serving as councilor at large; and Ben Stahler, elected council president.
Council approved the absences of Councilwoman James and Council President Stahler, suspended the reading of the previous meeting’s minutes, and appointed Kyle Springs as President Pro Tem. Bonnie was unanimously reappointed as clerk of council.
In his opening remarks, Mayor Crissman said the city is “starting off on the ground running” in the new year and emphasized collaboration with council members. “We’re all here together,” the mayor said, encouraging open communication.
Administrative Updates
Service and Safety Director Wes Dodds outlined several initiatives aimed at improving council operations, including the rollout of standardized city email accounts for council members to simplify public records requests and document retention. He also announced plans for a special council meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 27 to receive an update from Ohio Plan, the consulting group assisting with the city’s strategic planning process.
Dodds also provided updates on parks projects, including interviews underway for a construction manager at risk for the new pool project, recent ground-breaking work at Harmon Field, and progress in the search for a new parks superintendent.
Law Director Josh Stolly noted that while the city has shifted most public notices to its website and social media under Ohio law, some actions—such as annexations—still require newspaper publication. For those cases, the city will use a neighboring newspaper to meet legal requirements.
Auditor Fred Brentlinger reported that the Ohio Auditor of State recently released the city’s 2024 audit and that preparations for the next audit cycle are already underway.
Public Safety and Infrastructure
Police Chief Chris Marlow reported that the department’s newly acquired drone is now fully insured and operational. Staffing remains a concern, however, with no current officer applicants after one candidate was unsuccessful in completing the hiring process. Two recruits are in or entering the police academy, but neither will affect staffing levels until later this year and into 2027.
Fire Chief Wilson said the department is awaiting an update on the delivery of a new fire engine and recently hired a new firefighter, who has begun orientation and training.
City Engineer Jim Bischoff requested public hearings for two matters on Feb. 17: a proposed annexation of approximately 2.5 acres on Township Road 179, recommended for R-1 single-family residential zoning, and an alley vacation approved earlier by the Planning Commission. These are scheduled to be heard starting at 7pm on Feb. 17th.
Economic Development and Housing
Economic Development Director Ben Vollrath introduced Olivia Covey as the city’s new downtown events coordinator and highlighted ongoing business outreach efforts. Vollrath also addressed housing concerns, noting strong progress in single-family home construction but ongoing difficulty attracting multi-family apartment development.
Developers, Vollrath said, have expressed concerns about whether rental rates in the city would support new apartment projects without incentives. “Apartments are a big missing piece,” he said, pointing to the need for housing options for young professionals and future graduates.
Legislation and Other Business
Council gave first-reading approval to an ordinance making supplemental appropriations related to South TIF, Wastewater, and Refuse, after adopting technical amendments to correct clerical errors.
The clerk reported receiving two new liquor license applications—one for Tokyo Marysville on North Main Street and one for a Speedway location on North U.S. 68. Action on the Speedway application was temporarily deferred pending administrative review.
With no additional public comments or further legislation, council adjourned following committee announcements and scheduling updates.