200 South Hamilton Road

Gahanna, Ohio 43230

City of Gahanna

Meeting Minutes

City Council

Merisa K. Bowers, President

Trenton I. Weaver, Vice President

Jamille Jones

Nancy R. McGregor

Kaylee Padova

Stephen A. Renner

Michael Schnetzer

Jeremy A. VanMeter, Clerk of Council

Monday, February 3, 2025

7:00 PM

City Hall, Council Chambers

CALL TO ORDER: Invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, Roll Call

Gahanna City Council met in Regular Session on Monday, February 3, 2025,

in Council Chambers. President of Council Merisa K. Bowers called the

meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. Vice President of Council Trenton I. Weaver

delivered an Invocation and led members in the Pledge of Allegiance. The

agenda was published on January 31, 2025.

6 -

Present

Merisa K. Bowers, Jamille Jones, Nancy R. McGregor, Kaylee Padova,

Stephen A. Renner, and Trenton I. Weaver

1 - Michael Schnetzer

Absent

ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS TO THE AGENDA:

None.

PRESENTATIONS:

1. Joint Resolution/Proclamation Presentation by Council & Mayor

Black History Month - Presented to Jewel Woods

Councilmember Jones acknowledged that February is Black History Month

and took the opportunity to present a joint resolution and proclamation to

Jewel Woods, the founder and clinical director of Male Behavioral Health and

the Center for Boys. Councilmember Jones addressed the relevance of this

recognition during Black History Month, noting that while mental health affects

men and boys of all races, it has a significant impact within the Black

community. She emphasized her passion for mental health awareness and

advocacy, expressing appreciation for Mr. Woods' work in this field. Following

her remarks, Councilmember Jones invited Mr. Woods forward for a photo

and turned the microphone over to him for comments. She also extended her

gratitude to Mr. Woods for his contributions to mental health and his

dedication to serving men, particularly within the Black community. Council

colleagues and Mayor Jadwin were invited to join for the presentation.

Mr. Jewel Woods began by expressing his gratitude to Councilmember Jones

for the honor of being recognized and for the invitation to participate in the

event. Mr. Woods introduced himself, noting that in addition to his work at

Male Behavioral Health, he teaches graduate-level social work at the

University of Michigan and writes for Psychology Today. He stated that he

shared this background not to challenge anyone’s allegiance to local

universities, but rather to establish himself as a professional in the behavioral

health field and to emphasize his deep commitment to addressing the mental

and behavioral health needs of men and boys. Mr. Woods then proceeded to

answer three questions posed by Councilmember Jones.

In response to the first question regarding what inspired Woods to focus on

men’s mental health and create Male Behavioral Health, he explained that

society is either ignorant or indifferent to the struggles faced by men and

boys. He cited statistics from Franklin County, where males account for 71%

of overdose deaths, 79% of suicides, 79% of homicides, and 74% of motor

vehicle fatalities. He emphasized that despite these staggering numbers, very

little specialized knowledge, training, or resources exist to address the unique

mental health challenges faced by men and boys. This gap in care,

awareness, and intervention, he stated, is what drove his work to develop

targeted, effective, and ethical support systems.

Regarding the second question about common misconceptions surrounding

men’s mental health, Mr. Woods stated that one of the most pervasive myths

is the belief that men and boys exhibit behavioral problems rather than

experiencing true mental health challenges. He explained that this

misconception creates a damaging cycle in which men and boys are more

likely to be punished for their struggles rather than supported in addressing

them. Rather than recognizing emotional distress, anxiety, or

depression-often manifested as aggression, withdrawal, or risk-taking

behavior-society tends to respond with disciplinary action instead of

therapeutic intervention. He noted that this not only reinforces stigma but also

prevents many from seeking or receiving the care they need.

In response to the final question about what message he would share with

men and boys who are hesitant to seek help, Mr. Woods urged them not to

believe the false narrative that talking about feelings, struggles, or challenges

is a sign of weakness. He emphasized that this belief is a harmful lie

designed to keep them silent and suffering in isolation. He asserted that

strength is not about suppressing pain, but about having the courage to face

it. To be the best versions of themselves-for their own well-being and for the

people who rely on them-men and boys must develop self-awareness,

emotional intelligence, and the ability to seek support when needed. He

stressed that taking care of one’s mental health is not a weakness but a

source of power.

Mr. Woods then connected these themes to Black History Month, particularly

in the year 2025 and the years to come. He identified three key themes:

silence, suffering, and strength. On the theme of silence, he compared the

stigma that discourages men and boys from discussing their mental health to

the broader societal efforts to minimize the importance of Black History

Month. He stated that Black History Month is not simply a matter of diversity,

equity, and inclusion, just as men’s mental health is not just about behavioral

issues. Rather, he argued that understanding Black history is essential to

understanding the nation’s democratic experiment. Regarding suffering, he

explained that just as silence leads to suffering for men and boys, ignoring

history leads to collective trauma. He stressed the importance of

acknowledging the profound suffering that marginalized communities,

particularly Black and brown communities, continue to experience amid

increasing inequality, the disintegration of social systems, and a growing

existential crisis of meaning and purpose. He noted that neglecting mental

health leads to self-destruction, just as ignoring systemic injustice leads to

social disintegration. Finally, on the theme of strength, Mr. Woods

emphasized that just as men and boys find strength in community and

seeking support, societal strength in 2025 and beyond will require finding

allies, building coalitions, and engaging in good-faith conversations. He noted

that Black history has always underscored the importance of alliances among

individuals of different racial, cultural, and economic backgrounds. He

stressed that now, more than ever, allies are needed-Black, white, Latino,

Asian, and anyone of goodwill-who are willing to engage in real conversations

and bridge differences. Mr. Woods stated that the reasons for prioritizing

men’s mental health are the same reasons why Black history must be

recognized; ignoring either leads to despair, desperation, and decline. He

expressed his commitment to partnering with anyone dedicated to ensuring a

brighter future for individuals, families, and the country. He then thanked the

Council for the opportunity to speak.

Following Mr. Woods' remarks, Councilmember Jones expressed her

gratitude, stating that he had perfectly connected his work to Black History

Month. She noted that his words captured the intent behind his invitation to

receive the honor and thanked him for his contribution.

President Bowers also extended appreciation to Mr. Woods, acknowledging

his presence, calls to action, and reflections. She expressed gratitude on

behalf of the Council, stating that it was a pleasure to have him speak.

Mr. Woods concluded by sharing a personal connection to the community,

stating that both of his children were products of the Gahanna-Jefferson

Public Schools. He mentioned that his oldest daughter had recently graduated

from Vanderbilt University in December and that his 14-year-old, now

attending Bishop Hartley, was a recent graduate of Gahanna Middle School

South. He emphasized his deep commitment to the community and noted

that he was currently working with students at Gahanna Middle School South.

He thanked the Council for the opportunity to share his work and reflections.

HEARING OF VISITORS:

None.

CONSENT AGENDA:

1. Minutes - To Approve:

2025-0020

Council Special Minutes 1.21.2025

The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda.

2025-0021

2025-0022

Council Regular Minutes 1.21.2025

The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda.

Committee of the Whole Minutes 1.27.2025

The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda.

2. Resolutions:

RES-0003-2025

JOINT

RESOLUTION

AND

PROCLAMATION

RECOGNIZING

FEBRUARY 2025 AS "BLACK HISTORY MONTH" AND HONORING

THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF BLACK AMERICANS IN THE CITY OF

GAHANNA

The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda.

End of Consent Agenda

A motion was made by Renner, seconded by Weaver, to Pass the Consent

Agenda. The motion carried by the following vote:

6 - Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner and Weaver

1 - Schnetzer

Yes:

Absent:

CORRESPONDENCE AND ACTIONS:

1. Clerk

CC-0001-2025

To recommend approval to Council, a change to Part Eleven - Zoning

Code, Section 1117.10(e)(1)(A) Required Improvements of the

Codified Ordinances of the City of Gahanna.

Mr. VanMeter presented two items under the Council Clerk’s report. The first

item was a recommendation from the Planning Commission for Council’s

approval of a change to Part 11 of the Zoning Code, Section 1171.01(e)(1)(A),

regarding required improvements in the codified ordinances of the City of

Gahanna. Pursuant to the City Charter, he had issued a 30-day public notice

for what would be known as Ordinance 0001-2025, setting a hearing date for

March 3, 2025, prior to a vote on its adoption. He noted that a brief

presentation on this item was anticipated during the Committee of the Whole

meeting on February 10, 2025.

2025-0023

Ohio Division of Liquor Control Notice to Legislative Authority Permit

NEW 11200470005 BRUM AND WHEEL ENTERPRISES LLC 230

GRANVILLE ST, GAHANNA, OH

Mr. VanMeter’s second item was a notice from the Ohio Division of Liquor

Control concerning Brum and Wheel Enterprises LLC, operating at 230

Granville Street, Gahanna. Mr. VanMeter stated that the Gahanna Division of

Police had no objections to the liquor permit request. If there were no

objections from Council, he would sign and return the notice indicating that no

hearing was requested.

President Bowers asked if there were any comments or questions regarding

the item. She confirmed her understanding that the address in question, 230

Granville Street, was the location of Third Base Pint House. Chief Spence

affirmed that this was correct. There were no objections from Council.

2. Council

2025-0028

Correspondence from State Senator Beth Liston, District 16, to Council

President Merisa Bowers 1.21.2025

President Bowers informed the Council that an email had been received from

State Senator Beth Liston, introducing herself as the new State Senator for

Ohio’s 16th District, which includes Gahanna. Senator Liston provided her

email address and office number to be shared with constituents or for Council

members to contact her if needed. President Bowers stated that she had

asked Mr. VanMeter to include the email as part of the minutes to serve as a

reference for Senator Liston's contact information and introduction.

Mayor Jadwin requested that the email also be forwarded to her so she could

reach out to Senator Liston. President Bowers agreed to do so.

REPRESENTATIVES:

1. Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) - Renner, Padova

Councilmember Padova reported that the Community Improvement

Corporation (CIC) met on January 28, 2025, for its first meeting of the year.

During the meeting, elections for officers were held. Betty Collins was elected

President, George Mrus was elected Vice President and Secretary, and Jeff

Kessler was elected Vice President and Treasurer. She noted that the next

CIC meeting was scheduled for February 18, 2025, in the Committee Room.

2. Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) - Weaver

Vice President Weaver noted that more information would be coming in the

next couple weeks.

3. Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) - Padova

Councilmember Padova announced that the Creekside Charity Chocolate

Walk, benefiting organizations through Give to Gahanna, would take place on

Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM. She noted that there were

fewer than 100 tickets remaining and that more than a dozen businesses

were participating. Tickets could be purchased at VisitGahanna.com or

through the event’s Facebook page. She also announced that Visit Gahanna's

Annual Meeting would be held on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at 5:30 PM.

Unlike previous years, the event would take place in the evening instead of

during lunch and would include dinner. The keynote speaker would be Roy

Hall Jr., former Ohio State University wide receiver, NFL player, and Gahanna

Lincoln football coach. He would speak on the power of teamwork in the

community. Tickets for the annual meeting were not yet available but were

expected to go on sale the following week. Councilmember Padova

encouraged those interested to visit VisitGahanna.com for ticket information

and noted that the event would take place at La Navona. She looked forward

to seeing attendees at both events.

4. School Board (SB) - Jones

Councilmember Jones reported that she, along with several Council

colleagues, the Mayor, and administrative staff, had the opportunity to attend

the State of the Schools event last week. She noted that a variety of topics

were covered, with presentations given directly by those actively working

within the district, which she greatly appreciated. The event addressed key

areas including student success, educator empowerment, consistency,

accessibility, communication, and the financial stability of the district. She

mentioned that a recording of the event should be available on the district's

YouTube page and was expected to be shared by the following day. She

encouraged those interested to watch the recording.

OFFICIAL REPORTS:

1. Mayor

Mayor Jadwin began by thanking Councilmember Bowers for organizing the

city events over the past weekend. She highlighted the event on Saturday,

which featured a safety talk and an informative presentation by the Gahanna

Division of Police, as well as the events on Sunday, which included a

community walk and activities at The Herb Center. She noted that these

events embodied themes of strength and empowerment within the

community. She stated that the events reaffirmed her belief that Gahanna is a

safe place to live, work, and play and emphasized the dedication of the city's

officers who work daily to protect and serve its citizens. She also stressed

the importance of individual awareness, noting that whether on a trail, at an

event in downtown Columbus, or visiting a new city, individuals should always

be attentive, prepared, and informed about how to respond in different

situations.

Mayor Jadwin also discussed some of the city's ongoing programs. She

mentioned that on Saturday, February 8, 2025, Lieutenant Kissel would be

offering a self-defense class from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Gahanna

Senior Center. She noted that those who had participated in the past spoke

highly of the program. The class is free, open to men and women aged 18

and up, and available for registration through the city’s website. She

announced that on Saturday, March 8, 2025, Lieutenant Kell would be leading

a training class on civilian response to active shooter events (CRASE). She

confirmed with Chief Spence that this was the correct title. She explained that

the training would offer strategies and guidance on what to do in such a

situation but noted that it covers much more than active shooter scenarios.

The training also addresses other safety concerns, such as vehicles being

used as weapons at large events. She encouraged residents to attend, as

being trained and informed about emergency responses is crucial. This event

is also free and open to adults aged 18 and up, with registration available on

Gahanna.gov under programs and events.

Mayor Jadwin then announced that the city had officially welcomed Jessica

Curry to the team as the new mental health liaison from Syntero. She noted

that the Council had approved funding for this role two years ago in the budget

and expressed excitement about having Curry on board. She had met with

Curry earlier in the day to discuss the vision for the role, ongoing mental

health initiatives, and ways to expand opportunities and community

connections. She acknowledged the relevance of Mr. Woods’ work in mental

health and expressed enthusiasm for potential collaborations between him

and Curry.

On behalf of Senior Director Vollmer, who was attending a statewide

conference, Mayor Jadwin thanked everyone who had participated in the city’s

Table Talk conversations. She reported that turnout had been strong and that

two more opportunities remained for community members to join the

discussions. The next session was scheduled for the following day, February

4, 2025, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m., and the final session would be held on

Thursday, February 13, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Both sessions would

take place at the Gahanna Golf Course Clubhouse. She encouraged

residents to register on Gahanna.gov.

She then highlighted an upcoming event hosted by Gahanna-Jefferson Public

Schools titled "From Classroom to Career." This event, scheduled for

Tuesday, February 11, 2025, from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Gahanna Middle

School West, would provide an opportunity for middle and high school

students and their families to learn about regional economic trends, emerging

career opportunities, and the alignment of curriculum with future workforce

needs. The event would be presented in partnership with One Columbus, the

Gahanna Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Educational Service Center

of Central Ohio. She noted that more information could be found on the

school district’s website.

Finally, Mayor Jadwin announced the city's first-ever Procurement Fair,

hosted in partnership with Ohio MBE and the Gahanna Area Chamber of

Commerce. The event would take place on Thursday, February 27, 2025,

from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at The Peak at Edison. The fair aims to provide

opportunities for minority-owned businesses, women-owned businesses, and

small businesses to connect with purchasing organizations, promote their

services, and learn about bidding and contracting opportunities. Rhonda

Watson Barber from Ohio MBE would lead a workshop on the benefits of

minority business enterprise (MBE) certification, while Kemba Financial

Credit Union would sponsor and present a session on financial resources for

small businesses. She encouraged those interested to find event and

registration details at Gahanna.gov.

2. City Attorney

City Attorney Tamilarasan provided an update from her office, stating that they

were working on the first round of the annual review of the General Offenses

Code. She noted that this process involved reviewing the most recent bills

passed by the Statehouse and assessing their impact on the city's code and

ordinances. She informed the Council that this review would be presented in

an upcoming committee meeting.

COUNCIL COMMENT:

Councilmember Jones expressed gratitude and appreciation to Council

President Bowers for her leadership in organizing the Walk for Women event

over the weekend. She also thanked Officer Thomas, Visit Gahanna, and

everyone else who contributed to making the event possible. She

acknowledged all participants for showing up and standing in solidarity,

describing it as a cold but beautiful moment of unity and advocacy. She

extended further appreciation to Mr. Woods for attending the meeting and for

his work in the community, particularly in helping to kick off Black History

Month. Councilmember Jones reflected on the significance of Black History

Month, emphasizing that it carries an even greater urgency this year. She

noted that across the nation, there have been efforts to erase diversity, equity,

and inclusion-values that she described as fundamental to a just and fair

society. She cautioned against the dangers of dismissing the progress that

has helped open doors for many and dismantle systemic barriers, stating that

progress is not radical but necessary. She urged the community to take

action by supporting Black-owned businesses, attending educational events,

advocating for inclusive policies, and resisting attempts to silence history and

progress. She stressed that Black history, or any history, should not be

rewritten, ignored, or devalued. Councilmember Jones concluded by

expressing her hope that the community remains committed to upholding the

values of diversity, equity, and inclusion-not only in words but through action,

and not just in February but every day.

Councilmember Padova thanked Mr. Woods for attending the meeting and for

his important work in the community, both in Gahanna and throughout Central

Ohio. She echoed Councilmember Jones’s remarks, emphasizing the

importance of recognizing the history of the country, acknowledging the

progress that has been made, and continuing to build upon it. She also

expressed appreciation for the effort put into the joint resolution and

proclamation. She further extended her gratitude to President Bowers for

organizing the weekend’s events, noting that the Women’s Walk was a

powerful moment of community and solidarity. She appreciated seeing so

many people coming together in support of one another and concluded her

remarks by thanking everyone involved in making the events possible.

Councilmember Renner also thanked Mr. Woods for attending and expressed

that he had learned more about Mr. Woods’ organization and the work he

does. Councilmember Renner stated that he always values opportunities to

learn more. He also acknowledged Councilmember Jones’s remarks, calling

them appropriate and meaningful. He referenced a Zen proverb, "Let go or be

dragged," and shared that he had been dealing with personal family matters

over the past week, which prevented him from attending the weekend’s

events. However, he expressed appreciation that such an important activity

took place and thanked Council President Bowers for her efforts in organizing

it.

Vice President Weaver thanked Mr. Woods for his presence and for the

service he provides to the community. Vice President Weaver specifically

appreciated the way Mr. Woods connected his work with Black History Month

and emphasized the importance of continuing that work every day. He also

thanked Councilmember Jones for her presentation and for organizing the

joint proclamation and resolution. Vice President Weaver further commended

President Bowers for organizing the Women’s Walk, calling it a powerful and

moving event. He shared that his wife had been unable to attend due to illness

but expressed that she found the event to be an important opportunity for

women to reclaim space and not live in fear. He extended his appreciation to

the Gahanna Division of Police, Visit Gahanna, all event attendees, and the

city administration for their support in making the event a success.

President Bowers highlighted the Diaspora performance that took place over

the weekend, performed by Gahanna Lincoln High School’s African-American

Studies students under the direction of Johnel Amerson, Keisha Whitfield,

and Dr. Donja Thomas. She described the performance as an incredibly

moving experience and expressed her gratitude for having the opportunity to

attend. She then reflected on the contrast and connection between the Walk

for Women event, which focused on highlighting the need for women’s safety,

and Mr. Woods’s comments regarding the unique struggles faced by men

and boys in the community. She noted that these issues are not separate but

deeply intertwined. President Bowers extended her appreciation to the

Gahanna Division of Police, particularly Community Liaison Officer Blair

Thomas, and Visit Gahanna for their partnership in making the weekend’s

events successful. She observed that while the Walk for Women was geared

toward women, one recurring theme in the feedback she received-particularly

from women and mothers of daughters who run or use trails-was the

importance of engaging boys in these conversations as well. She

emphasized that boys also need to understand how they can support

community safety and how the community, in turn, must support them. She

stressed that a collective responsibility exists for each other's well-being and

that it is possible to acknowledge both the victimization of women and the

unique struggles and stigma faced by men. She expressed gratitude for the

discussions that took place during the meeting, as they provided an

opportunity for deeper reflection on these interconnected issues. She looked

forward to providing a more comprehensive report on the Walk for Women

weekend in the future, noting that it was a powerful experience and that the

event yielded phenomenal photos and meaningful outcomes. President

Bowers also announced that she had attached her constituent report for

December and January to the minutes. She had requested Mr. VanMeter to

include the report in the official record and had circulated it to

Councilmembers, the Mayor, and the City Attorney. She noted that the report

distilled the key events from the past two months into bullet points and

included a few photos to provide insight into the work of a councilmember.

2025-0024

Councilmember Merisa K. Bowers' Constituent Report

2024-January 2025

December

ADJOURNMENT:

With no further business before the Council, President Bowers adjourned the

meeting at 7:35 p.m.