Bellefontaine City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, to discuss upcoming community celebrations, city projects, departmental updates, and legislative actions.
America 250 Celebration and Return of Fireworks
Mayor David Crissman announced that 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, and the City of Bellefontaine is planning to celebrate throughout the year as part of the nationwide America 250 initiative.
As part of these efforts, the Mayor encouraged expanded participation in the Memorial Day Parade, with plans to make the event larger and feature additional floats and increased community involvement.
The Mayor also announced the return of a community fireworks display, which has not been held in Bellefontaine for several years. The fireworks show is planned for July 3, 2026, with Blue Jacket Park and the Logan County Fairgrounds under consideration as potential locations.
Parks Department and Harmon Park Updates
Service-Safety Director Wes Dodds reported that excavation work at Harmon Park is underway and progressing on schedule.
Dodds also noted that Parks Superintendent Rick Reed recently completed his first week in the role and has transitioned successfully, with support from city staff and the Parks Board. Reed has begun overseeing ongoing projects and seasonal preparations.
Council approved legislation authorizing the City to enter into a Construction Manager at Risk (CMR) agreement for the Hoffman Pool project. The agreement authorizes a construction contract not to exceed $7,050,000 and is intended to improve cost transparency and coordination throughout the project.
Auditor’s Report
City Auditor Fred Brentlinger reported meeting with state auditors regarding the closing of the City’s 2024 audit and the start of the 2025 audit. The 2024 audit results will be made available to the public on the City of Bellefontaine website.
Police Department Update
Police Chief Chris Marlow reported that the department continues to evaluate applicants as part of its ongoing hiring process. He also recognized Patrol Officer Kollin Stollar as Officer of the Year and Amanda Metz as Dispatcher of the Year. The next Citizens’ Police Academy is scheduled to begin February 19, 2026.
Fire Department Update
Fire Chief Brian Wilson reported that preparations continue for the department’s new fire engine. Technicians are expected to begin work on new radio equipment in the near future. The department is also preparing to interview 17 candidates for open positions.
GoBus Service Coming to Bellefontaine
City Engineer Jim Bischoff provided an update on GoBus service, which will begin serving Bellefontaine on March 2, 2026. Bellefontaine will be a stop on the GoBus Red Route connecting Toledo and Cincinnati, with two northbound and two southbound stops operating daily. The Bellefontaine stop will be located at the Logan County Senior Center overflow parking lot. The Ohio Department of Transportation manages ticket sales and service operations, while the City serves as the host location.
Parks Board and Recreation Update
Council reported that spring youth sports registration is now open, including baseball, softball, and other programs, with registration deadlines approaching in early March. Council also recognized Joliece Reed for her 14 years of dedicated service on the Parks Board. Reed recently resigned following the appointment of her husband, Rick Reed, as Parks Superintendent. Council expressed appreciation for her years of service to the Bellefontaine community.
Committee Reports
The Rules Committee announced it will meet March 2, 2026, at 2:00 PM to continue discussion regarding golf cart road use regulations and to begin reviewing information related to the possibility of Bellefontaine becoming a charter city.
Legislative Actions
Council approved the following ordinances:
Adopted:
Ordinance 26-03: Authorizing a Construction Manager at Risk agreement and construction contract for the Hoffman Pool project.
Ordinance 26-05: Creating a part-time Probation Case Manager position for Bellefontaine Municipal Court.
Ordinance 26-06: Amending the Municipal Court wage ordinance to include newly created probation-related positions.
Passed on First Reading Only:
Ordinance 26-04: Creating a full-time Deputy Bailiff/Probation Officer position for Bellefontaine Municipal Court, replacing an existing part-time position.
Passed on Second Reading Only:
Ordinance 26-02: Authorizing the Service-Safety Director to seek bids for runway, taxiway lighting, and signage improvements at the Bellefontaine Regional Airport.
Clerk Communications
Clerk of Council Bonnie Campbell reported receiving liquor license applications for the following locations:
7-Eleven, U.S. Highway 68 North
Village Pantry/Marathon, North Main Street
Next Meeting
The next regular meeting of Bellefontaine City Council will be held Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 7:30 PM.