Scott Pascu

The Commission addressed several planning and development matters. Key agenda items included the adoption of the Reconnecting Our Community: Akron Innerbelt Master Plan to guide future development and decommissioning along the SR-59 corridor. The Commission also reviewed and recommended approval for a conditional use petition for a multi-family housing development for veterans at Exeter Road and Ericsson Avenue, as well as a conditional use petition for a new towing operation and impound lot on Dublin Street. Additionally, a site plan review was conducted for an expansion to the NSK Industries manufacturing facility on Ascot Parkway.

The Akron Innerbelt Master Plan provides a 30+ year roadmap for repairing and regenerating the Innerbelt area. Rooted in extensive community engagement, it aims to address the legacy of discriminatory urban development through a justice-centered lens. The plan outlines five strategies: investing in neighborhoods, strengthening east-west corridors, connecting open spaces, activating Innerbelt-adjacent assets, and unlocking land under the Innerbelt. It proposes physical changes, such as infrastructure improvements and housing, alongside social impact tools, like anti-displacement programs, to foster community, connection, and shared prosperity.

The board meeting addressed several key topics including public comments regarding police leadership selection, the Auditor's report on use-of-force incident reviews, and updates on the case management system and public dashboards. The board reviewed and accepted multiple case reports, including those involving traffic stops, domestic violence responses, school-based incidents, and arrest procedures involving restraint devices. Governance discussions focused on the 2026 roadmap and annual report. The board deliberated on the FY2026 budget for the Office of the Independent Police Auditor and the board itself. Additionally, the meeting included updates on use-of-force review implementation, labor considerations regarding disciplinary timelines, and the introduction of the new Chief of Public Safety.

The meeting included discussions on the 2025 Annual Report, which was approved, and a scheduling update for the March 18 meeting. The Board reviewed the Auditor's report on specific case investigations, including incidents involving body-worn camera policy violations and off-duty police interventions. The Chief of Public Safety was introduced, and the Board held discussions regarding the FY2026 budget, including increased stipends for board members. Additionally, there was a review of the implementation coordination process for audit recommendations.

This document outlines the City of Akron, Ohio's Proposed Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan and Capital Investment & Community Development Program for Fiscal Years 2025-2029. The plan details significant investments across key areas including Transportation, Parks & Recreation, Public Facilities, Water, Sewer, Housing & Community Services, Economic Development, and Miscellaneous initiatives. The program aims to enhance infrastructure, services, and community development within the city through these targeted capital expenditures.