Stephen Busam

The board conducted the election of the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson for the year 2026. Under new business, the board reviewed a request regarding the storage of a trailer at 3765 Malaer Drive. The board ultimately approved a temporary 90-day variance for the storage request.

The council meeting included welcoming a newly elected council member and issuing a proclamation for John Carlberg's Day. The Mayor presented the ESGR "Above and Beyond Award" to the Police Chief and Officer Altman for supporting military personnel. Discussions covered the renovation status of the new tax department and introducing a new advocate for the city, DSD Advisor. Several ordinances were introduced and then passed by suspending rules, including authorization for purchasing rock salt, purchasing and disposing of capital equipment (Ford F600/F550), creating joint agreements for E. Kemper Road repaving, and hiring security staff for the Convention Center. A resolution was passed supporting an application for downtown loop project grant funding. The Law Director provided the required annual report. Committee reports detailed community service updates, including honoring the Sharonville Community Fund, and public works updates on street programs, culvert projects, and the status of capital equipment orders. The meeting adjourned after passing all relevant legislation.

The meeting included acknowledgments and thanks to the Fire, Police, and Public Works Departments for their service during a recent winter storm, detailing metrics such as miles cleared and tons of salt used. Recognition was given to various community members and businesses for assisting the Public Works team. A formal proclamation recognized the retirement of Recreation Department employee Joan Wegener, with January 23, 2026, declared "Joan Wegener Day." Legislative items addressed included the disposal of two police cruisers (Ordinance 2026-62), approval for new insulated bay doors at Fire Station 86 (Ordinance 2026-06), purchase of Fire Department communication radios to complete a 5-year replacement cycle, and funding for a new roof at Station 88 (Ordinances 2026-07-E and 2026-08-E). The Council also addressed an appropriation ordinance for a received property tax bill (Ordinance 2026-10). The Clerk reported on liquor license permits forwarded to the Division of Liquor Control. The Auditor presented the December 2025 financial position summary, noting approximately $4.5 million unspent at year-end and a significant transfer from the general fund to capital. The Treasurer reviewed year-end tax and income figures, noting 2025 income tax collections were the second highest on record. The Convention Center Director reported that operating revenues exceeded $3 million for the first time and the facility maintained most events despite competition. During public comments, residents expressed appreciation for city services and discussed proposed regulations regarding hookah lounges, including operating hours and security measures, with the Law Director and Mayor responding to concerns.

The council meeting agenda includes presentations of the annual report by the Hamilton County Auditor and the Mayor's court report. Legislative business covers amendments to appropriations, establishment of a new fund, implementation of two-hour parking regulations, and contract ratifications for public works building renovations. Additional items involve the submission of a transit infrastructure funding application, appropriation of funds for police canine equipment, approval of collective bargaining agreements with the Fraternal Order of Police, and amendments to the city business regulation code regarding hookah lounges. The meeting also includes committee reports, resident comments, and an executive session.

The council discussed various legislative items, including the tabling of an ordinance regarding hookah lounges, and approved the application for a DOT BUILD grant to study grade separation at a road crossing and an EIP grant for economic development. The meeting also included reports from the Mayor's Court, Community Services Committee, and Public Works Department regarding ongoing infrastructure projects, street programs, and recreation department updates. Additionally, the council recognized the achievements of local residents and student athletes.