The City of Bellefontaine Council met in regular session Tuesday evening and discussed a variety of community updates, infrastructure projects, public safety matters, and ongoing legislation, including continued discussion regarding the Bellefontaine Armory property.
Zoning Appeals Board Appointment Approved
Mayor David Crissman informed council members that Zoning Appeals Board member Brian Osterfield submitted his resignation. Mayor Crissman recommended local real estate agent Tori-Ann Bailey to fill the vacant position, and council approved the appointment.
Hot Summer Nights Cruise-In Returning for 26th Year
Service-Safety Director Wes Dodds announced that the annual Hot Summer Nights Cruise-In will return for its 26th year. Though there were rumors the event would not take place because of decisions made regarding DORA, the City recently received the official permit request from the Top of Ohio Cruisers, confirming the event will move forward as scheduled.
The cruise-in, traditionally held on the second Saturday in August (August 8), will begin with a parade from the Logan County Fairgrounds before continuing downtown for the car show and judging activities.
City Departments Recognized for Recent Work
Director Dodds recognized both the City Street Department and Water Department for their efforts during the past several days.
The Water Department responded to multiple water main breaks throughout the city, including a recent break on East Columbus. Meanwhile, Street Department crews have been replacing deteriorated curbing in the city-owned parking lot on South Detroit and performing tree trimming work in the area.
Dodds also thanked Code Enforcement Officer Amber Palmer for her continued work managing the city notification app and website that alerts residents to service disruptions and other city updates.
Police and Fire Department Updates
Police Chief Chris Marlow reported that the department’s newly ordered police cruisers are expected to be built in early June before being outfitted locally with additional equipment. Chief Marlow noted that the process is moving more quickly than in past orders.
Chief Marlow also shared staffing updates, stating that a recent lateral transfer officer is expected to begin training soon and should be ready for duty in June. Another incoming candidate is expected to begin training in July.
Fire Chief Brian Wilson told council that a newly sworn-in firefighter is completing firefighter certification training prior to beginning EMT certification training. Chief Wilson also announced plans to travel to Sutphen later this week to pick up the department’s new fire engine.
Parks and Recreation Update
Parks Superintendent Rick Reed provided an update regarding the young boy who was bitten by a dog while playing baseball last week. Although the boy is eager to get back out there to play ball, he was happy to be at the game cheering on his team from the dugout while his arm heals. Reed praised the nurses who were on neighboring fields and able to provide immediate emergency care, as well as those who helped remove the dog from the area and comfort the children who witnessed the incident.
Reed also commended the Police and Fire Departments for their quick response and said the situation was handled as well as possible given the circumstances.
In addition, Reed reported that repairs and patching work at the municipal pool have been completed. He thanked the Water Department for its assistance and guidance during his first year as Parks Superintendent. The pool is expected to be filled later this week, weather permitting, with a tentative opening date scheduled for May 23.
Reed also noted that the Parks Department recently hosted a successful three-day baseball tournament involving 66 teams.
Armory Sale Discussion Continues
Prior to continued discussion regarding the potential sale of the Bellefontaine Armory property located at 1021 S. Main Street, Mr. Dodds presented council with comparable sales data from armories in nearby communities for consideration as council evaluates the proposed sale.
Ordinance 26-20, which would authorize the sale of the Armory and surrounding parcels to Wawa Midwest, LLC for $550,000, received its second reading Tuesday evening. The motion to pass the ordinance on second reading was approved, with Council Member Wes Easton voting no.
The proposal has generated ongoing discussion among council members and community members regarding the value and future of the property. Questions have been centered on whether the site should receive an independent appraisal before final action is taken.
City officials have noted that the property would be sold “as is,” transferring responsibility for any future rehabilitation, demolition, or environmental remediation to the purchaser.
The ordinance will move to a third reading at a future council meeting.
Legislative Actions
Ordinances and Resolutions – First Reading
26-22 – An ordinance making supplemental appropriations and amending the Permanent Appropriations Ordinance for capital equipment at Myeerah. Motion to pass on first reading only approved.
R26-23 – A resolution authorizing the City of Bellefontaine to participate in an Ohio Department of Transportation asphalt concrete project at State Route 47 and authorizing the Service-Safety Director to execute all necessary documents. Resolution adopted.
Ordinances – Second Reading
26-20 – Ordinance authorizing the sale of the Bellefontaine Armory property. Motion to pass on second reading approved.
26-21 – Ordinance making supplemental appropriations for revolving loan housing incidentals and West TIF construction. Motion to waive the three-reading rule approved. Ordinance adopted.
Ordinances – Third Reading
26-15 – Ordinance making supplemental appropriations for recreation improvement capital equipment. Ordinance adopted.
26-17 – Ordinance authorizing bids and contracts for the 2026 Citywide Street Resurfacing Project. Ordinance adopted.
26-18 – Ordinance authorizing bids and contracts for the 2026 Street Painting and Striping Project. Ordinance adopted.