Dayton, City of

The meeting began with an invocation and the pledge of allegiance. A roll call was conducted, and a motion was passed to excuse the absence of Mayor Turner Sloths. The minutes from the January 21, 2026 meeting were approved. The primary discussion involved a detailed demolition update for December 2025 and the forecast for 2026, presented by Steve Gondell from the Department of Planning, Neighbors, and Development. Key points included the number of structures demolished (283 for 2025), progress toward the 1,168 property goal, and status of demolition funding sources (ARPA, ODOD, CDBG). Discussion also covered properties being added to the structural nuisance list and strategies for intervention to prevent properties from escalating to blight, including coordinating with the Dayton Home Repair Network and utilizing Issue Six program funds. Commissioners also inquired about the status of the comprehensive housing condition survey and strategies for managing the remaining blighted properties after the ARPA program concludes.

The meeting featured a presentation by the Law Department regarding the implementation of the municipal hospital ordinance following the passage of a 1-mil property tax levy. The levy is expected to generate approximately $19 million over 10 years, which is insufficient for the full scope of the envisioned hospital (including a Level II trauma center, ICU, birthing center, etc.). The discussion centered on two potential administrative options: contracting with a charitable nonprofit or establishing a mayor-run hospital board consisting of 11 members. The presenters noted there is no legal precedent for this process and that the final selection of services and administrative structure would depend on public input and financial feasibility. The next step proposed was to conduct a public hearing in late spring to gather citizen views on the preferred administration method and service priorities.

The meeting featured a presentation and special awards concerning the approach authorized under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 749 for a hospital levy approved by voters. Presenters outlined two administrative options: contracting with a charitable nonprofit or establishing a mayor-run hospital governing board, noting revenue constraints. The Law Department recommended holding a public hearing to gather citizen input on governance structure and priority services. Other key items included the unanimous adoption of Resolution No. 6914-26 regarding strengthening Downtown Dayton, approval of City Manager's Reports, and discussion of a long-term renewable energy purchase agreement through the Gem City Solar Project, which is projected to save residents up to $42 million over 25 years. Citizens commented on opposition to Downtown Security Working Group recommendations, support for a moratorium on charter schools, concerns about property maintenance, and issues related to vacant properties. The Commission also convened an Executive Session to discuss personnel matters.

The agenda for the regular meeting of the Civil Service Board includes several action items pertaining to personnel matters. These actions involve a request for reinstatement, requests for the removal of candidates from both the Reinstatement Eligible List and the general Eligible List, a request for approval of a probationary discharge, and determinations regarding the positions of Zoning Inspector and Zoning Plans Examiner. The meeting also includes sections for public comments, board discussions, board comments, and reports from the Secretary and Chief Examiner.

The meeting included a review of the September 2025 Minutes, which were subsequently approved. Key discussions involved the presentation of the November 3, 2025, Source Water Protection Trust Summary Report and CityWide's 3rd Quarter Report. The board approved the Sanitary Lining Project -- Phase 2 proposal for $1.2 million, noting that the Cured in Place Pipe (CIPP) method extends the sanitary line useful life without disturbing roadways. A proposed zoning agreement was tabled pending further financial review. An overview of proposed Source Water Protection Fund Board Ordinance changes was presented, suggesting an increase in the fund cap from $10 million to $25 million and allowing immediate fines for repeat offenders or entities with notable neglect; these changes require further review by the Environmental Advisory Board and City Commission. Partnership contract renewals were announced with rates remaining at 2%.