Tom Hitchcock

The BroadbandOhio Alliance meeting included opening remarks from the Lieutenant Governor and the Director of the Department of Development. Discussions focused on broadband connectivity grants, the expansion of high-speed internet access, and the progress of the Ohio Residential Broadband Expansion Grant program. The meeting also served to introduce new staff members and recognize the legislative efforts to support broadband expansion.

The council discussed concerns about electric bikes and scooters, including age restrictions and enforcement of traffic laws. They also reviewed a lease agreement with Veterans Forever, Inc. for the Bryson Park District, focusing on logistics for the upcoming Eastern Championships. Amendments were made to ordinances regarding Wastewater Treatment Plant operators and Firefighters, as well as an additional Bailiff for the Municipal Court. The council also approved supplemental appropriations for the Legal Department to upgrade its technology and IT management. Additionally, they discussed a donation from the Celina Sharks Swim and Dive Team and a lease agreement with Fizzy Sips for Bryson Park District. Updates were provided on the Pool Slide Project, the new Public Works Building, lights for the Basketball Courts at Bryson Park, and the Mill Street Project.

The council discussed the Lake Festival, commending the committee for their work despite rain delays. Updates were provided on the Fire and Police Departments, including new EMT graduates and police trainees. A resident raised concerns about sidewalk conditions during First Friday events. The council also discussed and accepted a donation from the Celina Sharks Swim and Dive Team for lane lines and equipment, addressing storage and usage issues. An ordinance authorizing a lease agreement with Fizzy Sips for the Bryson Park District was moved to its third reading. Finally, the council considered revisiting park rules regarding sleeping/camping during special events.

The council discussed and approved a lease agreement with Fizzy Sips for a fall event at Bryson Park, including potential activities like a petting zoo and pumpkin patch. A new fund was established for the Public Works Building construction, addressing the handling of sale proceeds under Ohio Revised Code. Supplemental appropriations were authorized for various expenditures, including Civica Software costs, CMU Administration Building improvements, insurance increases, forestry grant participation, disc golf course improvements, and trail fund disbursement. Concerns were raised about parking during the upcoming Fair, and the status of park and downtown arches was discussed. The council also addressed traffic issues at Buckeye and Warren, and recognized the outgoing and incoming Fire Chiefs. An executive session was held to discuss property matters.

The council meeting included discussions and actions on several key items. The July budget for 2026 was presented to the Council, and verbal approval was given to send it to the County. A resident raised concerns about the new basketball courts at Bryson Park, requesting a higher fence and lights. An ordinance was passed to authorize an agreement with Jones & Henry Engineer, Ltd. for the Wastewater Treatment Plant's preliminary design. Another ordinance, regarding supplemental appropriations for various expenditures, was passed to a second reading for further review. Additionally, the council addressed old business, including an ordinance authorizing a lease agreement for Westview Park and a resolution to adopt the Solid Waste Management Plan for the Mercer County Solid Waste Management District. The Assistant Police Chief Exam was announced, and Brian Davis was appointed as the new Fire Chief. The need for an alternative representative for the Joint Township Ambulance District was discussed, and updates were provided on police department staffing.