Vince Urbanski

The meeting included a review of the March finance report and consideration of new business items. Key resolutions discussed involved the approval of an internet contract and a VoIP contract with NEOnet.

The meeting featured a presentation by members of the Saturday morning hiking group who requested to restore their weekly hiking schedule. The Board reviewed and approved the February finance report. New business included the approval of agreements with the Ohio Wine Producers Association for the 2026 Vintage Ohio event and with the Village Peddler LLC for the Village Peddler Festival. The Executive Director provided updates on park facility inspections, upcoming trail developments, attendance figures for recent events, and upcoming seasonal staffing initiatives.

The board approved several financial and operational resolutions, including petty cash adjustments, the renewal of employee healthcare insurance, and a budget modification for drug law enforcement. Multiple paving improvement projects were authorized, including work at Farmpark, Pine Ridge Country Club, and Jordan Creek. Additionally, the board approved the purchase of new portable radios for the ranger department and the acquisition of two vehicles. The meeting also included an update from the Executive Director on park improvements, grant funding, and seasonal program performance, as well as an executive session regarding litigation.

The budget request includes a District-wide expenditure budget for 2026, reflecting an increase from 2025. The General Fund expenditure request also sees an increase, which includes a transfer to the Improvement Fund. The budget aims to continue providing clean and safe parks, along with programs and events. It also provides for the creation of new public amenities, such as the shoreline trail. The budget covers various funds, including the Health and Life Fund for self-insured hospitalization and prescription drug claims, and the Drug Enforcement Fund for court fines attributed to drug offenses. The budget also includes financial forecasts, revenue projections, and expenditure requests for various divisions, such as the Executive Division, Financial Services Division, Park Planning Division, Park Operations Division, and Park Services Division.

The meeting included discussions and approvals related to the Hemlock Ridge Park Service Drive Improvements, awarding the bid to Siteworx Unlimited, LLC. Also, the board discussed and approved the Janitorial Services contract to J.T. Dillard, LLC. Furthermore, the board approved the OWPA Vintage Ohio Event Agreement, CEI Electric Easement at Hemlock Ridge Park, Employee Handbook Revisions, and the OPBA Agreement pending legal counsel review. The Executive Director reported on spring activities and upcoming events.