Donna Zalesky

The agenda includes a proclamation recognizing life-saving actions by a community member and members of the fire department. Legislative matters include the adoption of an ordinance to accept public utility improvements, the removal of a zoning ordinance from the table for consideration, and the rezoning of property from residential to business use. Additionally, the council plans to award a bid for a pavement marking program, extend a tax increment financing term, and initiate the rezoning process for another parcel of land, which includes scheduling a future public hearing.

The commission discussed the application for an Ohio Historical Marker for the Avon Center Cemetery and reviewed the submission process with the Ohio History Connection. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing the proposed demolition of the Colvin Sweet Home, with members drafting a letter to the City Planning Commission to advocate for adaptive reuse and preservation solutions. Additionally, updates were provided on the completion of gravestone repairs at the cemetery, the procurement of a new stone-cleaning product, and a review of the commission's recent activity, including successful landmark registry additions and positive community engagement with the recognition program.

The Commission reviewed the planning checklist for Arbor Day, including potential purchase of children's educational books and preparations for a scavenger hunt, food services, and tree giveaways. Discussion occurred regarding a preliminary site plan for the Traxler Arboretum, with members expressing specific concerns about drainage, trail alignment, parking placement, and trail surface integrity. Additionally, members discussed plans for a future tree canopy analysis presentation, efforts to develop a street tree inventory, and potential development of an educational tree walk featuring labeled interpretive signage.

The commission discussed and approved an entrance exam for Firefighter/Paramedic candidates, to be administered by the Ohio Fire Chiefs Association. There was also a discussion regarding future meeting scheduling to certify exam results and facilitate the hiring process for a current department vacancy.

The commission scheduled a discussion regarding the use of Facebook and an update concerning the events and activities related to Arbor Day 2026.