City of Washington Court House

The committee reviewed reports regarding the city's statement of cash and investment portfolio. Discussions included water utility rates, credit card processing fees, a health care consortium cost summary, and PACE reports. The administration noted achieving a four-star rating from the State Auditor, discussed potential staffing needs in the Income Tax Department, and addressed resident concerns regarding door-to-door solicitation. Consequently, the committee recommended legislative changes for solicitor permits and an agreement with the Ohio Department of Transportation for street resurfacing improvements. Additionally, plans for community shredding events were approved.

The council received updates regarding infrastructure projects, the 2026 Street and Alley Resurfacing Program, community improvements including fencing at the cemetery and a pickleball project, and fire hydrant flushing. A financial report was presented, highlighting the city's four-star transparency rating. Legislative items addressed included establishing incentive districts for real property, authorizing a contract for street resurfacing, opposing an electric distribution rate increase, acknowledging a hazard mitigation plan, and amending regulations for low-speed micromobility devices and electric bicycles.

The board conducted an election of officers to appoint a new Chairman and Vice-Chairman for the upcoming year. The board reviewed and approved an application regarding outdoor seating and signage for a local business, while another application for a storefront change was noted as withdrawn.

The City Planning Commission discussed an application regarding a zoning ordinance amendment for Air BnB usage, which remained tabled. They conditionally approved the final plat for the Bishop Place Subdivision pending receipt of a bond or letter-of-credit for infrastructure improvements. Additionally, they approved an open and play area plan for a 99-unit multi-family development, while discussing concerns regarding development outcomes compared to initial proposals and the potential need for future zoning ordinance amendments to allow conditions on rezoning requests.

The council held a public hearing regarding the Washington Court House New Community Authority. The City Manager provided updates on development projects, planning initiatives, and grant applications, as well as cyber-security notifications and preparations for seasonal maintenance and holiday events. Local residents addressed council concerning topics including a potential public garden, campaign matters, and political platforms. Legislative actions included the passage of ordinances regarding the expansion of the New Community Authority and the first reading of a resolution for a development agreement with Forestar (USA) Real Estate Group Inc.