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, April 7, 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, April 7, 2025, in

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

meeting to order at 7:00 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 April 4, 2025.

6 - Merisa K. Bowers, Jamille Jones, Kaylee Padova, Stephen A. Renner,

Michael Schnetzer, and Trenton I. Weaver

Present

1 - Nancy R. McGregor

Absent

ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS TO THE AGENDA:

None.

PRESENTATIONS:

1. Division of Police - Promotion Ceremony for Sgt. Michael Shippitka

Mayor Jadwin administered the oath of office to newly promoted Police

Sergeant Michael Shippitka. Sergeant Shippitka repeated the oath, affirming

his commitment to support and defend the Constitution and laws of the

United States, the State of Ohio, and the City of Gahanna, and to faithfully

and impartially discharge the duties of Police Sergeant for the Gahanna

Division of Police.

Chief Spence and Director of Public Safety Tim Becker then welcomed

Sergeant Shippitka’s family to join him at the podium and offered remarks

recognizing his career and service. Director Becker shared that Sergeant

Shippitka was born in Euclid, Ohio, and earned his bachelor's degree in

business administration with a major in accounting and a minor in

psychology from Cleveland State University. He brings 26 years of law

enforcement experience, including service with the Independence and

Chandler Police Departments, and 13 years with the Gahanna Division of

Police. His tenure includes roles as a Field Training Officer, member of the

Officer Fitness Team, and 11 years as a Narcotics Detective. Director

Becker noted the significance of Sergeant Shippitka's decision to pursue a

supervisory role at this point in his career and expressed confidence in his

leadership. Family members present included Sergeant Shippitka’s wife,

daughters, sister, and mother-in-law. Director Becker also thanked the

Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge #9 and welcomed fellow Officers,

retirees, and law enforcement partners who were in attendance.

Sergeant Shippitka offered brief remarks, thanking his law enforcement

colleagues, both past and present, for their support, and expressed

enthusiasm about his new role and the opportunity to serve alongside the

officers of Gahanna’s Field Services Division.

President Bowers extended congratulations on behalf of Council and

thanked all who attended the ceremony.

Chief Spence acknowledged the rarity and importance of promotions within a

department of Gahanna’s size. He expressed appreciation to Council for

affording the time to honor such milestones.

2. Division of Police Update

2025-0080

Division of Police - Presentation and Updates to Council 4.7.2025

Chief Jeff Spence, on behalf of the Police Department, Director Becker, and

Mayor Jadwin’sleadership team, provided a comprehensive update on police

staffing, equipment, technology initiatives, and enforcement metrics, with an

emphasis on 2024 progress and 2025 plans.

Police Staffing

Chief Spence reported active efforts to backfill and expand staffing,

including:

Ongoing replacement of two sergeants (Hendon and Pertz).

One open position for a Communications Technician, with a

conditional offer extended for the second.

A pending promotion within the Communications staff to a Technician

II role.

The Management Analyst vacancy from 2024 was filled, with the new

hire expected within two weeks.

The contracted Mental Health Liaison joined the department early in

2024.

Two Community Liaison Officer (CLO) roles have been filled by

Officers Blair Thomas and Ann Jodon, following internal movement.

Six backfill Officer positions remain open; two conditional offers are in

process, one for an Academy Recruit starting April 30, 2025, and one

lateral transfer from Las Vegas Metro Police Department (PD)

expected in May.

Two Evidence Technician roles (added in the 2025 budget) are

currently posted.

Recruitment for a new Deputy Chief, authorized in the 2025 budget,

will begin this summer.

A Training Coordinator role shared with the Department of

Administrative Services is also posted.

Public Safety Equipment and Projects

Key investments and updates included:

Radio Equipment: $795,000 allocated; Council presentation

anticipated within 30 days.

911 Equipment: $150,000 for lifecycle upgrades.

Speed Signs: Four solar-powered signs were deployed citywide.

Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) System: The city is leading a

five-agency CAD upgrade (Whitehall, Bexley, Reynoldsburg,

Grandview Heights). Go-live is expected in September 2025.

Police Vehicles: $420,000 allocated for replacements, including

safety and computer equipment.

Breath Testing: The Intoxilyzer DMT device is now in use following

late-2024 deployment; 44 tests were conducted so far.

Flock Safety Cameras

Cameras Installed: 21 Flock cameras were deployed, representing a

$92,100 capital investment with $65,000 in annual operating costs.

Results to Date: Successful recoveries of stolen vehicles, arrests

related to thefts, firearm offenses, and domestic violence cases.

Recent Case Highlight: The system provided leads in a recent car

break-in and shots-fired incident near Andalus Drive and Milan/Heil,

which occurred over a 1 minute, 20 second span.

Traffic and Crash Metrics

Crash Trends: Total crashes are up 22% year-to-date (161 in 2025

vs. 131 in 2024).

Injury Crashes: Up 3.92%, primarily minor injuries.

No fatal or serious injury crashes reported in either 2024 or 2025

to date.

Commercial Vehicle Crashes: Increased from zero in 2024 to four

in 2025.

Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI) Crashes: Down 44%

year-to-date.

Traffic Volume & Roadway Metrics

Average daily traffic volume across Gahanna increased by 2%.

I-270 accounts for 25-40% of city crash volume, with traffic up 1.8%.

US-62 east of Stygler Road, another high-incident corridor, is up

1.3% in volume.

Traffic Enforcement

Traffic Stops: Up 22% over 2024.

Electronic Citations: 85% of citations issued electronically (up from

71% in 2024).

Factors affecting remaining paper citations include juvenile cases and

external county court filings.

Police Training Initiatives

Chief Spence emphasized the department’s continued investment in training

across all ranks and service phases. Training topics completed or underway

in 2025 included:

De-escalation and Mental Health Response

Officer Wellness

Ohio Ethics Law

Dynamic Vehicle Operations: State-mandated and scheduled for

later in the year; conducted in controlled environments with

contracted facilities

Legal Updates, including recent changes to Ohio marijuana laws

and search/seizure protocol

Public Engagement Training also remained a priority. Courses delivered in

2025 included:

CRASE (Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events)

Women’s Self-Defense Classes

Safety sessions for graduating seniors preparing to leave for college

or enter new environments

Vulnerability assessments and emergency response plan reviews for

faith-based organizations and local businesses

Transition to 825 Tech Center Drive - Operational Components

Chief Spence discussed operational planning related to the move to the new

public safety facility:

Deployment Planning: Focused on facility readiness, detention

operations, and evidence management.

Sequencing the Move: May involve temporary dual-site operations

during property and evidence transition.

Property & Evidence Integrity: Over 20,000 evidence items will be

relocated. Chain-of-custody standards must be preserved.

Equipment Consolidation: Planning is underway for efficient

staging and hot-swapping of essential equipment.

Detention Compliance: Transition to a modern facility will bring the

department into compliance with Ohio Department of Rehabilitation

and Correction (ODRC) standards.

Accreditation & Compliance

Chief Spence reminded Council that Gahanna Police Department’s (PD’s)

on-site Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies

(CALEA) accreditation review is scheduled for August 2025. Preparations

are ongoing and involve:

Internal audits and evaluations

Policy and procedure updates

Compliance with Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction

(ODRC) standards, LEADS (Law Enforcement Automated Data

System), Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS), and 911

interoperability requirements

Future Considerations and Strategic Planning

Chief Spence outlined strategic initiatives and anticipated challenges:

Police Staffing to Match Growth: Increased regional development

and a growing student population (e.g., Gahanna Lincoln High

School) will increase service demands, including School Resource

Officer (SRO) coverage.

Flock Camera Expansion: Addressing gaps in neighborhood

coverage and pursuing public-private partnerships to extend the

network.

Regional Training Opportunities: Leveraging the training center at

825 Tech Center Drive as a regional hub for law enforcement,

supported by the city’s central location, highway access, and nearby

amenities.

Entrepreneurial Use of Facilities: Exploring ways to maximize

investment through community training programs and facility rentals.

CAD/RMS System Transition: The multi-agency upgrade includes

five partner cities. The new system will unlock analytical tools and

Artificial Intelligence (AI) supported predictive policing capabilities.

Director Becker concluded by thanking Council for their continued support of

public safety funding. He emphasized the department’s commitment to

maximizing value from taxpayer investments, the efficiency and

professionalism demonstrated by police leadership and staff, and the value

of technology like Flock cameras as force multipliers that increase

investigative capacity, while also creating additional follow-up workload once

cases move to prosecution. Director Becker affirmed that the department

remained focused on continuous improvement and responsible stewardship

of resources.

Questions & Comments from Council

President Bowers opened the floor for questions and discussion following the

presentation by Chief Spence and Director Becker.

Councilmember Jones asked about the early impact of the newly added

mental health liaison position. Chief Spence explained that the department

developed a referral process for officers in the field and that the liaison was

now following up on cases involving chronic issues such as homelessness,

hoarding, and elder care. He noted the partnership with Mifflin Township's

community paramedic, Beth DeConnick, and stated that while it was still too

early to fully measure impact, the process was more streamlined. Metrics are

tracked to evaluate outcomes.

Vice President Weaver inquired about the size and life cycle of the police

vehicle fleet. Chief Spence stated that the department had 22 marked

vehicles, along with detective, leased, and support vehicles. The standard

replacement threshold was around 100,000 miles or after four to five years

of service, though that varied based on condition. He confirmed that the

department caught up with recent vehicle acquisitions after prior supply

chain delays. He also confirmed that all 21 Flock cameras were deployed

and clarified that the annual fee covered total cost of ownership, including

maintenance and replacements.

Councilmember Padova thanked the department for their responsiveness to

the recent incident in Gahanna Heights and confirmed with Chief Spence

that it was considered an isolated event. She noted the importance of

community reassurance and acknowledged the work of officers who spoke

directly with affected residents. She also confirmed that the city collaborated

with neighboring jurisdictions through the regional Flock camera network.

Councilmember Renner commended the department for their swift response

to the recent neighborhood shooting but expressed concern over a resident

discharging a firearm during the incident. He emphasized the importance of

responsible gun use and asked about public messaging on such issues.

Chief Spence stated the matter was part of an ongoing investigation and that

facts would be gathered before further comment was made.

President Bowers inquired about anticipated new initiatives for 2026. Chief

Spence indicated that the department would focus on fully operationalizing

the new facility at 825 Tech Center Drive, particularly its training capacity. He

also cited preparations for CALEA accreditation, a new records management

system (CAD/RMS), and potential staffing needs to support future

operational and administrative demands. President Bowers further asked

whether public-private partnerships mentioned earlier extended beyond the

Flock camera network. Chief Spence confirmed that potential partnerships

might also involve training facility use by external organizations and

neighborhood-funded camera deployments. He cited an example in

Jefferson Meadows.

President Bowers raised concerns about the potential use of artificial

intelligence, particularly predictive policing. Chief Spence clarified that the

department intended to leverage existing data through smart analytics to

identify crime trends, not to create generative models. He emphasized the

goal was to process and act on existing data more efficiently. Director

Becker added that the department was "data rich but information poor," and

that AI could help distill data for better resource deployment.

President Bowers concluded by thanking Chief Spence and Director Becker

for the comprehensive update. She noted that departmental presentations

helped the Council and the public better understand operations and

anticipate potential items in future budget cycles.

3. Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE)

Melanie Hill, Director of Data Analysis, United Way of Central Ohio

Troy Rindler, Senior Data Analyst, United Way of Central Ohio

2025-0078

Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) Presentation to

City Council 4.7.2025

Councilmember Jones introduced a presentation by Melanie Hill and Troy

Rindler of the United Way of Central Ohio, inspired by a session she

attended at a Franklin County conference. Councilmember Jones explained

that the presentation focused on ALICE, (Asset Limited, Income

Constrained, Employed) households and noted the relevance of the data to

Gahanna’s policymaking and understanding of the community.

Melanie Hill, Director of Data Analysis at United Way and a Gahanna

resident of 15 years, introduced the concept of ALICE. She explained that

ALICE households fall above the federal poverty level but still struggle to

meet basic needs in the current economy. These households include

essential workers such as childcare providers, retail employees, and delivery

drivers. Hill emphasized that ALICE data reflects a significant portion of the

population who often remain invisible in policy conversations and are

typically ineligible for traditional assistance programs. Hill reported that,

according to the 2024 ALICE report, nearly 1.9 million households in Ohio,

approximately 39% of the state's total population, fell below the ALICE

threshold in 2022. She noted this was more than twice the state’s official

poverty rate. She explained the methodology behind the ALICE Household

Survival Budget, which calculates the minimum cost of living for a family of

four and includes expenses like childcare, often excluded from federal

poverty metrics. Hill presented a visual comparison between household

survival budgets and actual wages and credits from 2021 to 2022. She noted

that while wages increased 9% in that period, pandemic-era supports

expired, widening the gap between income and basic expenses. The data

illustrated how the 2022 federal poverty level remained far below the actual

cost of living.

The presentation highlighted specific demographic groups, including families

with children. In 2022, 32% of Ohio families with children were unable to

afford basic needs. Within that, 74% of single female-headed households

and 48% of single male-headed households faced financial strain, compared

to just 13% of married-parent households. In Gahanna, 6.2% of households

were headed by single females, on par with Franklin County, while 53% were

married-couple households, 22% of which included children. Hill also

discussed older adults as a growing ALICE demographic. Those aged 65

and older represented the fastest-growing segment of ALICE households,

with more seniors remaining in or re-entering the workforce to make ends

meet. In Gahanna, over 16% of residents were aged 65 or older, compared

to less than 13% in Franklin County. Hill concluded her portion of the

presentation and turned the discussion over to Troy Rindler, Senior Data

Analyst at United Way of Central Ohio, to provide a more detailed look at

ALICE data specific to Gahanna.

Troy Rindler, Senior Data Analyst at United Way of Central Ohio, presented

an overview of ALICE data specific to Gahanna. He stated that 24% of

households in Gahanna fell below the ALICE threshold, compared to nearly

40% in Franklin County and the state of Ohio. While Gahanna fared better

than the region overall, this percentage still represented approximately 8,400

residents struggling to meet basic needs. Mr. Rindler explained that the

traditional Consumer Price Index (CPI) includes luxury items not relevant to

ALICE households, such as powerboats and jewelry. In response, ALICE

developed the ALICE Essentials Index, which tracks the cost of housing,

child care, food, transportation, healthcare, and technology. The ALICE

index outpaced CPI over the past three years. For example, in 2021, the

median income in the Columbus MSA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) was

$47,022.50, but by 2023, households needed to earn $54,000 to meet basic

needs-an increase of 15%. The median income in May 2024 stood at

$49,000, highlighting the growing gap between income and essential costs.

Rindler demonstrated interactive tools on the United for ALICE website,

including maps, a wage tool, and a legislative district tool. These resources

allowed users to explore the data by household type, geography, and income

level.

Director Hill elaborated on how other municipalities used ALICE data. She

cited a City of Columbus economic mobility accelerator pilot program that

used ALICE data to determine eligibility and support for working families

through conditional cash assistance. She also described United Way’s

tax-time initiative, which offers financial boosts to qualifying families. Director

Hill emphasized that ALICE data provides localized, annually updated

insights that reflect real economic conditions better than the federal poverty

level, which fails to adjust for household size or regional cost differences.

Councilmember Padova expressed her appreciation for the presentation and

connected the data to her prior work at Gahanna Residents In Need (GRIN).

She encouraged residents not under the poverty line but still struggling to

utilize community services. Councilmember Jones asked what innovative

practices other communities were implementing, and Director Hill elaborated

on pilot programs and advocacy work done with city councils and at the state

level. Mr. Rindler explained how the Alice threshold data is tailored to local

cost of living, down to the county level. He noted that users can plug in

household types and county data to get an income estimate to meet the

survival budget.

Councilmember Schnetzer asked whether the survival budget was adjusted

for regional variation, and both Director Hill and Mr. Rindler confirmed it was.

Schnetzer also appreciated the inclusion of inflation data tailored to ALICE

households, contrasting it with CPI used in government reporting.

Councilmember Renner asked for clarification on the estimated 8,000

Gahanna residents struggling to meet basic needs. Mr. Rindler explained

that the number was derived by translating household data into individual

counts based on average household size. Renner asked how the data

reflected grandparents raising grandchildren and older adults with assets.

Director Hill noted that more nuanced information could be extracted from

the interactive tools, though that specific household type was not highlighted

in the standard report. Mr. Rindler added that older adults might own homes

but still be housing cost-burdened, which would place them within the ALICE

population. Councilmember Renner concluded by stating that the

presentation reinforced the importance of including these households in any

discussions about adjusting property taxes.

President Bowers thanked Councilmember Jones for coordinating the

presentation and extended the Council’s appreciation to Director Hill and Mr.

Rindler for their time and work at United Way of Central Ohio.

HEARING OF VISITORS:

Kathy McCorkle of 677 Picadilly Court, Gahanna, OH, spoke on a Proposed

Natural Family Resolution.

Ms. McCorkle addressed Council regarding her previous request for a

resolution recognizing Natural Family Month. She stated that since her initial

appearance before Council, she reached out to Council President Bowers to

request a meeting to discuss the resolution process and her related ideas.

Ms. McCorkle shared that she received an email response earlier that day in

which Council President Bowers declined to meet or further discuss the

matter. Ms. McCorkle criticized Council President Bowers for what she

described as an unwillingness to represent all Gahanna residents and

referenced language from the Council President’s March constituent report,

which invited residents to share ideas and schedule meetings. She

questioned whether such outreach was genuine and called upon fellow

residents to evaluate the character, ideology, and belief systems of their

elected representatives on both the City Council and the School Board. She

urged citizens to stay engaged, advocate for their values, and be vigilant in

holding local officials accountable to democratic principles, including free

speech and broad representation. She concluded by encouraging residents

to ensure their voices are not silenced by elected officials.

CONSENT AGENDA:

1. Minutes - To Approve:

2025-0070

2025-0071

2025-0072

Council Regular Minutes 3.17.2025

The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda.

Committee of the Whole Minutes 3.24.2025

The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda.

Finance Committee Minutes 3.24.2025

The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda.

2. Resolutions:

RES-0012-2025

RESOLUTION TO AMEND RESOLUTION 0009-2024 TO REVISE

THE 2025 SIDEWALK MAINTENANCE PROGRAM AREA

The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda.

RES-0013-2025

RESOLUTION DETERMINING THE NECESSITY TO REPAIR

AND/OR REPLACE SIDEWALKS IN THE 2026 SIDEWALK

MAINTENANCE PROGRAM AREA FOR THE CITY OF GAHANNA

The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda.

RES-0014-2025

RESOLUTION DETERMINING THE NECESSITY TO REPAIR

AND/OR REPLACE SIDEWALKS IN THE 2026 SIDEWALK

MAINTENANCE LOOKBACK PROGRAM AREA FOR THE CITY OF

GAHANNA

The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda.

RES-0016-2025

RES-0017-2025

RESOLUTION

REAFFIRMING

THE

CITY

GAHANNA'S

REPRESENTATIVE AND ALTERNATE TO THE REGIONAL INCOME

TAX AGENCY (RITA) REGIONAL COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS

(RCOG)

The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda.

RESOLUTION CELEBRATING APRIL 2025 AS EARTH MONTH

AND MAY 5-9, 2025 AS AIR QUALITY AWARENESS WEEK AND

COMMITTING TO A MORE SUSTAINABLE GAHANNA

The Resolution was adopted on the Consent Agenda.

3. Ordinances for Second Reading and Emergency Adoption:

ORD-0008-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO REPEAL AND REPLACE THE CITY OF

GAHANNA CODIFIED ORDINANCES CHAPTER 903 - SIDEWALK

CONSTRUCTION,

MAINTENANCE,

AND

RENEWAL;

AND

DECLARING AN EMERGENCY

The Clerk read the Ordinance by title. The Ordinance was adopted on the

Consent Agenda with an emergency declaration.

4. Ordinances for Second Reading and Adoption:

ORD-0009-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE

CITY OF GAHANNA CHAPTER 147 - BOARD OF ZONING AND

BUILDING

APPEALS,

CHAPTER

770 -

PROPERTY

APPEALS

BOARD, AND CHAPTER SECTION 1117.09 - APPEALS

The Clerk read the Ordinance by title. The Ordinance was adopted on the

Consent Agenda.

End of Consent Agenda

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

Agenda. The motion carried by the following vote:

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

1 - McGregor

Yes:

Absent:

RESOLUTIONS:

RES-0015-2025 A RESOLUTION DECLARING THE CITY OF GAHANNA'S INTENT

TO PARTICIPATE FINANCIALLY IN THE WYNNE RIDGE COURT

BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT (ODOT PROJECT NO. 116417)

AND

AUTHORIZING

THE

MAYOR

ENTER

INTO

PARTICIPATORY AGREEMENT WITH THE OHIO DEPARTMENT

OF TRANSPORTATION

President Bowers noted that Resolution No. 0015-2025 was removed from

the consent agenda and placed on the regular agenda. The resolution was

initially discussed at the Committee of the Whole meeting on March 24,

2025. Following that discussion, amendments were proposed, and there

remained some outstanding questions regarding the contract associated with

the resolution. As the contract must be approved before the end of the

month, President Bowers requested a motion to postpone Resolution

0015-2025 to a date certain for vote on April 21, 2025, and to refer the item

back to the Committee of the Whole on April 14, 2025.

Councilmember Schnetzer asked whether postponing Resolution 0015-2025

would cause any delay or issues with the associated project and whether the

timeline would still be met.

Senior Director of Operations Kevin Schultz confirmed that there would be

no delay. He stated that the item was returned to Committee at the request

of the City Attorney and that adoption must occur by the end of the month.

He indicated the City of Gahanna had enough time to meet the requirement,

noting the deadline was believed to be April 24, 2025.

A motion was made by Weaver, seconded by Padova, that the Resolution be

Postponed to a Date Certain, the 4/21/2025 regular City Council meeting, with

further discussion scheduled in Committee of the Whole on 4/14/2025. The

motion carried by the following vote:

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

1 - McGregor

Yes:

Absent:

ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION / FIRST READING:

ORD-0010-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN

EASEMENT AGREEMENT WITH COLUMBIA GAS OF OHIO, INC

President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title.

ORD-0011-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO A

TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION EASEMENT WITH COLUMBIA GAS

OF OHIO, INC

President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title.

ORD-0012-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN

ACCESS AND GENERAL UTILITY EASEMENT WITH COLUMBIA

GAS OF OHIO, INC

President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title.

ORD-0013-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO ACCEPT THE DEDICATION OF 0.057 ACRES

OF RIGHT-OF-WAY EXTENSION FROM PARCEL NO. 025-012951

LOCATED OFF OF CLIFFVIEW DRIVE FOR THE PURPOSE OF

FACILITATING A FUTURE LOT SPLIT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION

OF A REGULATOR STATION BY COLUMBIA GAS OF OHIO, INC

President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title.

ORD-0014-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO ACCEPT THE DEDICATION OF 0.071 ACRES

OF RIGHT-OF-WAY FROM PROPERTY LOCATED AT 4720 SHULL

ROAD TO COMPLY WITH THE CITY'S 2019 THOROUGHFARE

PLAN

President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title.

ORD-0015-2025 AN ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO AWARD AND

ENTER INTO

COMPANY

FOR

CONTRACT WITH DECKER CONSTRUCTION

THE 2025 STREET AND SIDEWALK

MAINTENANCE PROGRAM (ST-1114)

President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title.

ORD-0016-2025 A N

O R D I N A N C E

A U T H O R I Z I N G

S U P P L E M E N T A L

APPROPRIATIONS - Clerk of Court Computer Fund (2290) for Capital

Equipment

President Bowers introduced the Ordinance and the Clerk read it by title.

CORRESPONDENCE AND ACTIONS:

1. Clerk - None.

2. Council

https://www.gahanna.gov/list.aspx

2025-0075

Your City Council at Work Newsletter - January-February 2025

President Bowers informed the audience that a link was identified and made

available on the agenda for individuals to sign up for the new City Council

newsletter. She also noted that the second edition of the newsletter is now

available for review under the Correspondence and Actions section.

REPRESENTATIVES:

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

Councilmember Renner reported that the Community Improvement

Corporation (CIC) met on March 18, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. The minutes were

approved, and financial matters were discussed. Mayor Jadwin provided her

customary update on city activities. Planning staff reported on two Tech

Center projects, one involving a roofing company and the other being a more

mixed-use development. CIC entered Executive Session under Ohio Revised

Code Section 121.22(G)(2) to discuss the sale of property. Councilmember

Renner noted he did not record the time the session began and would

amend his report at a future meeting, with Councilmember Padova

estimating the meeting concluded just before 9:00 a.m. The February draft

balance sheet reflected a total of $8,295,211. The February draft profit and

loss statement indicated approximately $20,500 in income and $52,765 in

expenses. The January draft statement of cash flows showed an ending

cash balance of $203,503.41.

Mayor Jadwin noted that all approved minutes and financial statements

would be uploaded to the CIC website. She explained that a temporary delay

occurred due to the cancellation of the February 2025 meeting, but once

approved, materials are typically posted promptly by staff.

Councilmember Renner concluded by announcing the next CIC meeting

scheduled for April 15, 2025, at 8:00 a.m.

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

2025-0079

Councilmember Weaver's MORPC Report to City Council 4.7.2025

Vice President Weaver expressed appreciation to Management Analyst Jess

Hilts for her support in preparing the MORPC report. He thanked everyone

who attended the MORPC State of the Region event, noting it was great to

see strong participation from members of the administration, fellow

councilmembers, the Planning Commission, and the Council Office. Vice

President Weaver also announced that MORPC would host a Community

Housing Resource Fair on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00

p.m. at MORPC. The event is free and intended to connect attendees with

housing experts and available support options. He noted that MORPC

recently approved more than $52 million in funding for regional infrastructure

projects and concluded by announcing that the next MORPC Commission

meeting would take place on Thursday, April 10, 2025.

3. Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) - Padova

Councilmember Padova announced that Herb Day would take place on

Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Creekside. In

addition to the well-known plant sale, the event would feature various

vendors, activities, and musical performances. She encouraged community

members to volunteer and directed them to sign up at ohioherbcenter.org

under the Herb Day section. Padova also shared that Herb’n Restaurant

Week would kick off on May 3, 2025, highlighting local restaurants offering

special herbal-themed menu items in celebration of Gahanna’s designation

as the Herb Capital. A list of participating restaurants will be posted on the

Visit Gahanna website and shared via social media as the event approaches.

Additionally, Padova informed attendees that the volunteer sign-up for the

Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival is now live. Interested individuals can

volunteering at the festival and encouraged others to get involved, noting it

as a great way to engage with neighbors and give back to the community

while enjoying extra perks.

4. School Board (SB) - Jones

Councilmember Jones reported that she had no updates, as the district

recently returned from spring break.

OFFICIAL REPORTS:

1. Mayor

Mayor Jadwin extended her heartfelt gratitude to the many residents and

guests who attended the recent State of the City event. She noted the strong

turnout, with representation from every city department, including the Council

Office and the City Attorney’s Office. The event featured 13 Gahanna

restaurants and 19 community, regional, and state organizations. Based on

feedback received, attendees appreciated the opportunity to engage with

staff, elected officials, and community organizations. Mayor Jadwin noted

that the 2025 State of the City video is available on the City's YouTube

channel and linked on gahanna.gov for those who could not attend. She

reported that the Citizens Academy kicked off and welcomed a group of 20

engaged Gahanna residents, representing both longtime and new members

of the community. The sessions thus far featured excellent dialogue and

strong participation.

Mayor Jadwin provided an update on Senate Bill 104 concerning short-term

rentals. She shared that Senator Brenner, the bill sponsor, recently held a

meeting with stakeholders including the Ohio Municipal League, the Ohio

Mayors Alliance, County Auditors, and the Ohio Realtors. Discussions

focused on the collection of lodging and sales taxes from short-term rentals,

with general agreement on those aspects. The outstanding issue remains

the authority to regulate short-term rentals, whether it should rest with local

or state governments. The senator intends to continue stakeholder meetings

with a goal of reaching a compromise by year’s end.

In recognition of April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month, Mayor Jadwin

announced she would issue a proclamation later in the week. She

highlighted the importance of avoiding handheld phone use while driving,

noting a recent personal observation of distracted driving on I-270.

Finally, Mayor Jadwin announced the hiring of Mr. Jeff Gottke as the City of

Gahanna’s new Director of Economic Development. Mr. Gottke previously

served as President of the Knox County Area Development Foundation and

will begin his new role in Gahanna on April 28, 2025. Mayor Jadwin shared

her enthusiasm for his arrival and encouraged the community to extend him

a warm welcome.

2. City Attorney

City Attorney Tamilarasan provided a brief update, announcing that shortly

after the last Council meeting in March 2025, the Sixth Circuit Court of

Appeals rendered a decision in the City's favor in the Speed Way case. She

noted that this decision concluded that section of litigation. She added that

the opposing party has 90 days to request jurisdiction with the U.S. Supreme

Court, and she would keep the Council informed if such a request occurs.

She confirmed that the appellate court’s ruling affirmed the trial court’s

decision in favor of the City of Gahanna.

COUNCIL COMMENT:

Councilmember Jones stated that her constituent report was attached to the

evening’s agenda. She announced that her April constituent hour would be

held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at noon at Bibliophile Candle Co.

Councilmember Padova expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming joint

constituent hour and “Stuffy Swap” event with Council President Bowers.

The event would take place on Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 1:30 p.m. to

2:30 p.m. at the Gahanna Library in Meeting Rooms 1 and 2. The event,

held in celebration of Earth Day, would promote sustainability by

encouraging families to bring in gently used, clean stuffed animals to trade.

She noted it was an opportunity to reuse items instead of purchasing new

ones and to refresh Easter baskets with items children might not miss.

Councilmember Renner congratulated Sergeant Michael Shippitka and

welcomed his family and members of the Police Division who attended the

meeting in support. He expressed appreciation for their presence and

extended his best wishes.

Vice President Weaver also congratulated Sergeant Shippitka, calling his

promotion a well-deserved honor. He commended the Police Division and

recognized the sergeant’s career of service, which was evident by the strong

turnout of current and former colleagues. Vice President Weaver announced

he would host a constituent hour on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 5:30 p.m.

to 7:00 p.m. in the front lobby conference room of City Hall. He also praised

the administration and staff for a successful State of the City event,

highlighting the strong community participation and the representation of

local businesses. He encouraged residents to view the event video online.

President Bowers announced the grand reopening of the Plant Library, which

would be held Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at 560 Officenter

Place. The reopening was in partnership with Creative Options and

supported by community grant funding. She encouraged attendance, noting

it would not conflict with Councilwoman Jones’s constituent hour. President

Bowers also promoted the upcoming “Make Gahanna Yours” Spring Litter

Cleanup event on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 9:00 a.m., describing it as a

valuable opportunity to prepare the city for the spring and summer seasons.

She noted her own constituent report was included in the agenda packet and

echoed Councilwoman Padova’s remarks about their joint event on Sunday.

The report detailed her recent constituent activities and policy work from

February through March.

President Bowers also addressed a request for a resolution titled the

“Natural Family Resolution,” originally brought forward in February 2025, and

reiterated by a resident earlier that evening. She explained that after

receiving the request, she asked for more information and conducted her

own research, including reviewing the website naturalfamilystrong.com and

its model resolution. She stated that while she agreed with some broad

values such as loyalty, service to others, and stewardship of community, the

resolution promoted ideas such as male-dominated households and

subservient wives that did not reflect her beliefs. She emphasized her

support for the many forms families can take and reaffirmed her commitment

to values rooted in inclusivity and community care. President Bowers clarified

that she was not obligated to advance legislation that did not align with her

values or her understanding of the community’s best interests, while also

affirming every resident’s right to be heard. She encouraged any colleague

interested in pursuing the proposed resolution to contact the resident

directly.

2025-0073

2025-0074

Councilmember

February-March 2025

Merisa

Bowers'

Constituent

Report

Councilmember Jamille Jones' Constituent Report - March 2025

ADJOURNMENT:

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

meeting at 8:43 p.m.