BELLEFONTAINE, Ohio — Bellefontaine City Council convened Tuesday evening for its regular meeting, recognizing city employees’ response to recent winter storms, approving key appointments, advancing infrastructure projects, and hearing from residents on transparency and civic engagement.
The meeting opened with an invocation thanking city street crews, first responders, and law enforcement officers for their extended efforts during severe winter weather. Council members later echoed appreciation for city employees who worked around the clock to keep streets passable and emergency services operating.
Board of Zoning Appeals Appointment Approved
Council approved the Mayor’s recommendation to appoint Doug Elton, a retired Honda engineer and longtime Bellefontaine resident, to the Board of Zoning Appeals. Elton fills a vacancy created when Wes Easton joined City Council.
City Promotion Campaign to Launch Nationwide
Mayor David Crissman announced the launch of a new promotional campaign developed in partnership with Viewpoint, a public television program hosted by Dennis Quaid. The campaign includes a one-minute commercial set to air on the Fox Business Network and a six-minute segment that will broadcast on approximately 170 television stations nationwide beginning in February.
The video highlights Bellefontaine’s history, downtown revitalization, business growth, quality of life, and proximity to major metropolitan areas. The full segment is now available on the City’s website and social media platforms.
Link for Video Here: https://www.ci.bellefontaine.oh.us/article/2662505
Winter Storm Response and City Operations Update
Service Safety Director Wes Dodds provided an update on the city’s response to the recent snowstorm, noting that street crews, police, and fire personnel worked continuously to maintain safety. Crews are continuing alley and downtown snow removal operations.
Dodds also reported the passing of a retired Bellefontaine Police Canine, expressing condolences to the dog’s handler Officer Hostetler.
In additional updates:
Rick Reed, a local resident, was selected as the new superintendent of the Bellefontaine Joint Recreation District and will begin February 2.
Council members were asked to approve and attend an upcoming Ohio Plan land use strategic planning meeting scheduled for February 10 at 6:30 p.m.
Economic Development and Community Events
Economic Development Director Ben Vollrath announced that he has been selected to serve a two-year term as chair of the Mid-Ohio Development Exchange (MODE), representing economic developers across the Columbus region. Vollrath will also participate in a regional housing coalition to provide a rural perspective on housing challenges and opportunities.
Olivia Covey, the new Event Coordinator for the Downtown Bellefontaine Partnership, introduced herself to Council and outlined upcoming downtown events.
Council Actions and Ordinances
Council advanced the following legislation:
Ordinance 2602 (first reading): Authorizing bidding and contracting for a $2.9 million airport runway and taxiway lighting rehabilitation project, with 95% funded by the FAA.
Ordinance 2601 (second and final reading): Making supplemental appropriations for salt, wastewater, refuse, and TIP funds, including funding related to city-owned real estate purchases.
Public Comments Address Transparency and Governance
Several residents addressed Council during the public comment portion of the meeting.
A city resident spoke about the importance of transparency, public discussion among council members, and citizen access to meetings and decision-making processes. Law Director Josh Stolly explained the use of emergency legislation language, noting it allows ordinances to take effect immediately but limits referendum opportunities, and that its use has been reduced in recent years.
Howard Traul thanked Council for recently prohibiting marijuana dispensaries in the city and urged officials to preserve elected positions for the city auditor and law director to ensure independent oversight.
Meeting Adjourned
With no further business, Bellefontaine City Council adjourned the meeting after reminders about upcoming ethics filing deadlines and administrative matters.