Giovanne R. Merlo

The council held a public hearing regarding a moratorium on data centers and discussed various public concerns including tree clearing near residential areas, alleyway maintenance, and property crime. Legislative actions included the first reading of ordinances for business grants and the approval of a consent agenda encompassing zoning code amendments, permit fee updates, a data center moratorium, and resolutions for property demolition, residential development grant applications, and safety study grants. The council also addressed administrative updates on community events and infrastructure projects.

The council reviewed several communications including liquor license applications and an electric rate plan. A committee report was presented regarding a proposed data center project in Weathersfield Township, which spurred extensive public discussion concerning health, environmental, and utility impacts. Council discussed potential annexation of the data center site, proposed moratoria on data center developments, and various ordinances concerning permit fees, property transfers, and infrastructure projects, such as storm culvert repairs, service line potholing, and street paving.

The council meeting addressed comprehensive amendments to the zoning code, with a presentation from a consultant on new proposed districts. Public remarks focused on concerns regarding electric billing discrepancies, sewer system flooding issues, and property damage and privacy concerns related to the new Hyundai dealership development. Additionally, the council reviewed ordinances related to land transfers, tax increment financing, and community development grant applications. Legislative items approved included the purchase of replacement MDT units for the police department and various fund appropriations for storm water repairs, tree removal, and paving projects.

The Council reviewed and accepted the January 2026 Billing Department Adjustments for filing.

The council received and placed on file various reports, including the 2025 Water Purchased Versus Build report, the November 2025 statement of cash from revenue and expense, and the November 2025 check report. Additionally, the 2025 annual report from the police department and the 2025 year-end update from the planning and permitting department were formally accepted.