Paul J. Drury

The meeting involved discussions across several key focus areas. Regarding transportation, updates included the Anderson Center Station ribbon cutting schedule, the upcoming METRO service route updates, and progress on sidewalk projects, including a SORTA grant award for Sutton Road and completion of the Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon at Clough / Endovalley / Juilfs Park. Road resurfacing projects for Newtown Road and Salem Road were also discussed. For workforce development, the committee reviewed the upcoming meeting with Great Oaks and the Forest Hills School District, and reported on the Business Survey evaluation and participation in Jump Start Day. In environmental matters, the 2026 Native Plant of the Year was announced as Amsonia (Bluestar), and planning for its Kick-Off Event was reviewed. Discussions also touched on integrating native plantings into Township landscaping and street tree installations. Regarding recycling, progress updates were given on the pill bottle drop-off pilot program and efforts to expand recycling access for multifamily units, including promotion of the Hamilton County ReSource infrastructure grant. Finally, the committee discussed the timeline for the Comprehensive Plan update, noting the closure of the RFP and the need for steering committee volunteers, confirming that the 2022 plan will be implemented until the 2027 update is adopted.

The meeting focused on planning action items for 2026. Key discussion topics included updates on transportation projects, such as sidewalk construction and the use of Anderson Center Station as a METRO station. Workforce development was addressed, summarizing staff efforts in connecting educational institutions and the Chamber of Commerce, with updates provided on student career awareness events like the Aspire program and Jump Start day. Environmental discussions involved the Native Plant Initiative, focusing on selecting Amsonia Bluestar as the 2026 native plant and efforts to boost participation in the Homegrown National Park program and invasive species removal. Recycling initiatives included establishing pill bottle recycling at the Sheriff District 5 substation and working on lithium battery recycling and flowerpot recycling collaboration. Discussions also covered temporary sign regulations. Subgroups reviewed action items for 2026 concerning road network improvements, the impact of the Operations Center renovation on recycling drop-off, and plans for native plant gardens in partnership with local schools. Updates were also provided on the Comprehensive Plan update contract negotiation with McKenna and Cincinnati's development of a Mount Washington neighborhood plan.

The meeting involved the orderly conduct of proceedings, including administering an oath to potential testifiers, outlining procedures for the appeals, and the election of new officers due to vacancies for Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Secretary. Key agenda items included two variance requests. Case 2-2026 BZA involved a request for a variance to construct a new single-family residence with a 35.6 ft front yard setback where 50 ft is required, necessitated because the prior residence with a non-conforming setback collapsed. The board granted this variance, emphasizing that the spirit of the zoning requirement for separation from the roadway would be upheld. A concerned party raised issues regarding outstanding demolition and flood hazard permits that needed to be finalized. Case 3-2026 BZA concerned a variance request for a 16 ft by 18 ft rear yard addition, proposing a 40 ft setback where 60 ft is required, noting the existing non-conforming setback was 52.3 ft.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the swearing-in and induction of five new firefighters (Bareric Faulk, Aaron Bray, Madison Tedesco, Ma Man, and Kraton Holland) after they successfully completed a rigorous training program. The public forum included several residents addressing the board. Key discussion points raised by the public involved the commitment to sidewalks, concerns regarding a recent increase in vehicle thefts, and the impact of the homeless population near the border with the City of Cincinnati. Several long-serving trustees (Josh Girth and Lexi/D Stone/Girth) were honored and thanked by multiple speakers for their years of dedicated service, with speakers noting the high standards they set for the township.

The Anderson Township Board of Zoning Appeals convened to discuss several cases. Case 25-2025 BZA involved a variance request for a property on Wallingford Drive, where the owners sought to construct an addition that required a setback variance. The staff presented their findings, noting that the variance was not substantial and would not alter the character of the neighborhood. The applicant explained the need for the variance to create an ADA-compliant addition. A neighbor spoke in support of the project. The board approved the variance. Case 26-2025 BZA concerned a conditional use request for a short-term rental on State Road. The owners aim to use platforms like Airbnb and VRBO to rent out their property, intending to maintain it for family visits while also generating income. Staff findings indicated compliance with zoning resolutions and no adverse impact on adjacent properties. The board discussed the application, focusing on the applicant's residency status and intent to remain in the area.