A group of people seated in a formal meeting room with a long table. A person stands at a podium in the center, under a wall with historic photos.

City Council Honors Kris Myers, Discusses Community Improvements and Upcoming Initiatives

City of Bellefontaine

June 10, 2026

The Bellefontaine City Council met in regular session Tuesday evening, approving several items of business while also taking time to honor the lasting legacy of former Parks Superintendent Kris Myers.

Council unanimously approved a resolution recognizing Myers, who passed away unexpectedly in December 2025, for his years of dedicated service to the City of Bellefontaine. The action followed a request from the Bellefontaine Joint Recreation District Board of Trustees to rename the newly improved recreation complex at Harmon Field in his honor.

During discussion of the resolution, Service-Safety Director Wes Dodds and City Law Director Josh Stolly voiced support for honoring Myers while preserving the historic identity of Harmon Field. Dodds spoke about what Harmon Field means to generations of Bellefontaine residents and the memories associated with the park. He also reflected on his personal and professional relationship with Myers, noting that it is possible to both preserve the legacy of Harmon Field and appropriately recognize Myers for his outstanding service and dedication as Superintendent of Parks and Recreation.

Dodds highlighted Myers' tireless efforts to improve the quality of life for Bellefontaine residents and his decades-long commitment to making the community a safer and better place to live. Council Member Jordan Reser, who serves as council liaison to the Joint Recreation District, proposed an amendment to the resolution that received unanimous approval.

Under the amended resolution, the facility will officially be known as "Harmon Field, Home of The Kristopher Myers Recreation Complex."

Mayor David Crissman also addressed council members, asking for volunteers to assist with cleanup efforts at Blue Jacket Park following the City's Fireworks Celebration festivities. Cleanup is scheduled for Saturday, July 4, following the fireworks celebration and events taking place on July 3.

The mayor additionally expressed appreciation to the many city departments and employees who helped organize and participate in the recent Memorial Day Parade.

Service-Safety Director Dodds reported that discussions are underway with City Engineer Jim Bischoff regarding potential infrastructure improvements aimed at mitigating flooding issues that have affected portions of the city. Dodds also commended the Street Department for its recent work at Lot Three, including asphalt repairs, curb replacement, and landscape improvements.

Parks Superintendent Rick Reed provided an update on efforts to increase youth engagement throughout Bellefontaine's parks system. Reed noted that community organizations, including Children of God, have been actively hosting activities for young people at Rutan Park and other City parks. He added that the Bellefontaine High School football team was utilizing Rutan Park during Tuesday evening's meeting, highlighting the continued use of local parks by community groups and organizations.

During committee reports, Rules Committee Chair Jenna James announced that the committee will meet on June 11 to continue work on proposed legislation governing golf cart operations within city limits. The committee hopes to present legislation for council consideration at either the June 23 meeting or the July 14 meeting.

Legislative Action

Council considered the following legislation:

First Reading

  • Ordinance 26-28 — An ordinance making supplemental appropriations and amending the Permanent Appropriations Ordinance for parks purposes. The ordinance advanced following first reading.

  • Resolution R26-29 — A resolution honoring Kristopher Myers for his years of service and naming the newly improved recreation complex at Harmon Field in his honor. Council unanimously approved an amendment establishing the name "Harmon Field, Home of The Kristopher Myers Recreation Complex," and subsequently passed the resolution unanimously.

Second Reading

  • No legislation was considered.

Third Reading

  • Ordinance 26-22 — An ordinance making supplemental appropriations and amending the Permanent Appropriations Ordinance for capital equipment at Myeerah. The ordinance passed.

The next regular meeting of the Bellefontaine City Council will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.