200 South Hamilton Road

Gahanna, Ohio 43230

City of Gahanna

Meeting Minutes

City Council

Trenton I. Weaver, President

Jamille Jones, Vice President

Merisa K. Bowers

Nancy R. McGregor

Kaylee Padova

Stephen A. Renner

Michael Schnetzer

Jeremy A. VanMeter, Clerk of Council

Monday, April 6, 2026

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 6,

2026, in Council Chambers. President of Council Trenton I. Weaver

called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. Vice President of Council

Jamille Jones delivered an Invocation and led members in the Pledge

of Allegiance. The agenda was published on Friday, April 3, 2026.

7 -

Present

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

Stephen A. Renner, Michael Schnetzer, and Trenton I. Weaver

ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS TO THE AGENDA:

None.

HEARING OF VISITORS:

Sharon Montgomery of 572 Bonnington Way, Gahanna, Ohio, addressed

Council and stated that April is National Distracted Driving Awareness

Month. She explained that she had not requested a resolution or

proclamation this year in order to gauge the level of awareness among

four central Ohio cities that have supported her advocacy efforts. She

clarified that her decision did not intend to surprise the Council and noted

that Mayor Jadwin had already acknowledged the month in a prior

conversation with her. Ms. Montgomery stated that driving under the

influence of electronic devices remains a significant problem and that

drivers continue to make dangerous decisions resulting in serious harm.

She reported that, in the first 90 days of the year, Ohio recorded 231

fatalities due to traffic violence, representing a 12 percent increase

compared to the same period last year. She noted that reports indicate

crashes attributed to phone use have declined, but questioned the

accuracy of those reports due to enforcement challenges and

inconsistencies in crash reporting. She explained that reports do not

clearly distinguish electronic distractions and do not account for widely

acknowledged underreporting. Ms. Montgomery stated that

approximately 8,000 crashes involved distracted driving, resulting in 29

deaths within 30 days of the incidents and 2,899 injuries, with additional

fatalities possibly occurring later due to injuries. She questioned how

these numbers persist and attributed a significant cause to the

permissiveness of the distracted driving law, which she said fails to

convey that such behavior is unacceptable. She cited the exception

allowing phone use at red lights and noted that more than one-third of

distraction-related crashes occur at intersections. She explained that

drivers using phones at red lights remain mentally distracted when the

light changes, increasing risk in complex intersection environments. Ms.

Montgomery further stated that lenient penalties contribute to the

problem, noting that offenders who cause serious harm are not required

under Traffic Rule 13 to appear in court or hear victim impact statements

and may instead pay a $150 fine. She thanked Council for addressing

penalty-related concerns and thanked Chief Spence for applying to serve

on the Ohio Traffic Safety Council. She concluded by stating that

significant work remains to improve distracted driving laws and overall

road safety.

President Weaver thanked Ms. Montgomery and reminded attendees

that a Committee of the Whole meeting would immediately follow the

Regular Meeting. He also stated that Council would not meet for the next

two weeks and would reconvene on April 27, 2026, for both a Regular

Council meeting and a Committee of the Whole meeting immediately

afterward.

CONSENT AGENDA:

1. Minutes - To Approve:

2026-0069

2026-0070

Council Regular Minutes 2026-03-16

The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda.

Committee of the Whole Minutes 2026-03-23

The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda.

2. Ordinances for Second Reading and Adoption:

ORD-0009-2026

AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS

- Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) Grant Fund for Body-Worn

Camera Services

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

Consent Agenda.

End of Consent Agenda

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

Agenda. The motion carried by the following vote:

7 - Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver

Yes:

RESOLUTIONS:

RES-0011-2026

RESOLUTION

RECOGNIZING

APRIL

2026 AS

VOLUNTEER

APPRECIATION MONTH IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA AND HONORING

THE SERVICE OF COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS, INCLUDING EAGLE

SCOUT AIDEN COMBS

Councilmember Bowers offered a brief introduction as the item came

before Council for the first time. She noted that Council had not

previously recognized Volunteer Appreciation Month and explained that

the timing coincided with a celebration honoring a recently promoted

Eagle Scout, which she believed made the recognition appropriate. She

stated that volunteering plays a critical role in the community and

emphasized that many community functions depend on individuals who

choose to support one another. Councilmember Bowers referenced a

recent call for volunteers for the Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival and

stated that community success relies heavily on volunteer participation.

She remarked that the concept of being a village requires individuals to

act as villagers and acknowledged that such efforts often involve physical

and emotional work that may not always be convenient or glamorous.

She recognized individuals who coach, mentor, serve, organize, or

otherwise contribute when needed. Councilmember Bowers expressed

her support for bringing the recognition forward in conjunction with

honoring Aiden Combs for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. She

reported that he earned more than 63 merit badges, hiked more than

350 miles, and contributed over 317 hours of service to the community.

She stated that his Eagle Scout project, which involved building

playground equipment for a local preschool, will benefit families for years.

She concluded by recognizing all volunteers, including Aiden Combs, for

their contributions to the community, inviting her colleagues to join her in

presenting the resolution to Combs on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 5:00

p.m. at Hannah Park.

A motion was made by Bowers, seconded by Jones, that the Resolution be

Adopted. The motion carried by the following vote:

7 - Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver

Yes:

RES-0012-2026

A JOINT PROCLAMATION AND RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING EARTH

DAY 2026 IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA, OHIO, AND AFFIRMING THE

SHARED RESPONSIBILITY OF PUBLIC LEADERSHIP, COMMUNITY

ACTION, AND ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

Councilmember Renner stated that he prepared a brief presentation and

apologized to his colleagues for placing the item on the Regular Agenda,

explaining that he misunderstood the modified April 2026 schedule. He

stated that he would have preferred to discuss the matter during a

Committee of the Whole meeting but noted that time did not allow for that

option. He thanked Mayor Jadwin for her continued interest in partnering

on the resolution and her support for environmental stewardship.

Councilmember Renner introduced the Earth Day resolution and

explained its significance. He referenced a recently released NASA

image of Earth from the Artemis II mission and described the planet as

appearing small, bright, and shared. He stated that the image served as

a reminder that, from a distance, property lines, jurisdictions, and politics

are not visible, only a shared home. He explained that Earth Day

highlights the fundamental dependence of human life on clean water,

healthy land, clean air, and functioning natural systems. He emphasized

that environmental stewardship directly connects to public health, quality

of life, community resilience, and the future. Councilmember Renner

stated that the Earth Day theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” reflects the

idea that environmental progress depends on the daily actions of

communities, educators, workers, and families rather than any single

administration or election. He noted that Earth Day promotes practical

actions such as community cleanups, tree planting, educational efforts,

town halls, and sustained local engagement. He emphasized that while

Earth Day has a global scope, it carries strong local significance and

represents a matter of public leadership. Councilmember Renner stated

that environmental challenges require collaboration, thoughtful

leadership, and a willingness to work across the community. He cited a

quote from Senator George Voinovich emphasizing that government

should empower people and mobilize their energy and resources to

solve problems. He explained the relationship between human

development and the natural world, stating that healthy natural systems

sustain human life while development shapes the environment through

land use, stormwater runoff, and design decisions. He emphasized that

the challenge involves supporting both human well-being and ecological

health rather than choosing between them. Councilmember Renner

stated that these principles apply locally in Gahanna, where streams,

trees, parks, and public spaces contribute to resilience, health, beauty,

and a sense of belonging. He explained that stewardship includes caring

for streams and watersheds, maintaining tree canopy, valuing parks and

green spaces, and focusing on human-centered design to ensure

communities remain safe, connected, and livable. He noted that Earth

Day materials highlight local actions such as cleanups and tree planting,

which align with the resolution’s focus.

Councilmember Renner explained that the resolution recognizes Earth

Day, affirms environmental stewardship as a shared responsibility, and

highlights local priorities, including tree canopy stewardship and stream,

watershed, and neighborhood stewardship. He stated that although the

resolution is ceremonial, it directs attention to visible local priorities

where community participation can create meaningful impact. He

encouraged residents to take practical actions such as planting and

caring for trees, reducing litter, protecting storm drains, participating in

cleanup efforts, conserving resources, and supporting parks and green

spaces. He also encouraged schools, businesses, civic organizations,

faith communities, and institutions to lead by example through

stewardship and resource conservation. Councilmember Renner

concluded that stewardship represents a shared responsibility rather

than solely a government function and stated that caring for the planet

begins with caring for local communities. He emphasized that achieving

a healthier and more resilient Gahanna requires collective effort and

thanked the Council.

President Weaver thanked Councilmember Renner for the presentation

and his work on the resolution.

A motion was made by Renner, seconded by Bowers, that the Resolution be

Adopted. The motion carried by the following vote:

7 - Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver

Yes:

ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION / FIRST READING, WAIVER, &

ADOPTION:

ORD-0010-2026

AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO

CONTRACT WITH CAP-STONE & ASSOCIATES, INC. FOR THE 2026

STREET

REBUILD

AND

WATERLINE

PROGRAM

(ST-1120 /

TR-CM-02); AND WAIVING SECOND READING

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

Senior Director Kevin Schultz stated that he requested a waiver for the

item.

President Weaver acknowledged the request and apologized for the

confusion. He stated that action could be taken that evening and

explained that he had momentarily misunderstood the agenda. He

thanked staff for reading the two items and indicated that Council would

turn to the administration for comments.

Director Schultz apologized and explained that, while preparing the April

schedule, he mistakenly believed an additional meeting would occur. He

requested a waiver for the first item involving Capstone and reminded

Council that the item involved a construction contract and therefore did

not require a 30-day referendum period. He further requested a waiver

and emergency designation for the second item, Ordinance 0011-2026,

noting that the agenda already included an emergency request. He

explained that the administration sought authority to issue a notice to

proceed and secure a place on the contractor’s schedule without waiting

until the April 27, 2026, meeting and the days following.

President Weaver thanked Director Schultz and again apologized. He

stated that Council would first need a motion to approve, followed by a

motion to amend and a request for waiver, and asked the Clerk to

confirm the procedure. Clerk VanMeter confirmed that Council could

proceed in that manner and advised that Council could also vote to waive

the second reading for each item and then move to adopt each

ordinance. President Weaver agreed with that approach and asked for a

motion to waive the second reading for Ordinance 0010-2026 and

Ordinance 0011-2026.

A motion was made by Renner, seconded by Bowers, that the Ordinance be

Introduced, Second Reading Waived. The motion carried by the following

vote:

7 - Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver

Yes:

City Attorney Tamilarasan clarified that Ordinance 0011-2026 had

already been amended in draft form between the committee stage and

first reading to include emergency language.

President Weaver acknowledged the clarification and stated that Council

completed the waiver process for both items and now needed to vote on

the adoption of each ordinance. President Weaver expressed

appreciation and stated that Council would vote on the items separately.

He then requested a motion to approve Ordinance 0010-2026.

A motion was made by Jones, seconded by Padova, that the Ordinance be

Adopted. The motion carried by the following vote:

7 - Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver

Yes:

ORD-0011-2026

AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO

CONTRACT WITH VISU-SEWER OF OHIO, LLC FOR THE 2026

SANITARY AND STORM SEWER CLEANING PROJECT; WAIVING

SECOND READING AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY

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

A motion was made by Renner, seconded by Bowers, that the Ordinance be

Introduced, Second Reading Waived. The motion carried by the following

vote:

7 - Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver

Yes:

A motion was made by Jones, seconded by Padova, that the Ordinance be

Adopted as an Emergency. The motion carried by the following vote:

7 - Bowers, Jones, McGregor, Padova, Renner, Schnetzer and Weaver

Yes:

CORRESPONDENCE AND ACTIONS:

1. Clerk - None.

2. Council - None.

REPRESENTATIVES:

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

Councilmember Padova reported on the March 18, 2026, meeting. She

stated that the meeting included an update from the Montrose Group

regarding strategic planning discussions, including benchmarking

analysis and plans to meet with board members. She explained that the

next steps include reviewing governance regulations and evaluating the

future direction of the CIC. She noted that the group compared the CIC to

those in Bexley, Hilliard, and Westerville, highlighting differences in

funding, operations, and initiatives such as loan programs and real

estate strategies. Councilmember Padova stated that discussions

emphasized the need to develop sustainable funding and that the

Montrose Group will conduct interviews and present recommendations at

the next meeting. She reported that the board approved the February

meeting minutes with one small addition and tabled finance updates due

to the absence of the treasurer. She stated that Director Gottke

introduced a property acquisition policy focused on consistent

processes, documentation, and due diligence, which the board approved

following discussion. She reported that the board entered Executive

Session at 8:58 a.m., and adjourned out of Executive Session at 9:26

a.m., and then adjourned the meeting. She stated that the next meeting

will take place on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 8:00 a.m.

Councilmember Renner stated that he did not attend the March meeting.

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

2026-0071

Councilmember Weaver's MORPC Report to City Council 2026-04-06

President Weaver encouraged Councilmembers to review the attached

report, noting that it contained useful links and information, and

specifically highlighted the March legislative update. President Weaver

reported that MORPC did not hold a commission meeting that month and

instead scheduled four regional meetings. He stated that the regional

meeting he planned to attend was canceled and that he awaited further

information regarding whether it would be rescheduled. President

Weaver thanked those who attended the State of the Region event and

noted that several members of the administration were present. He

stated that Mayor Jadwin presented an award to Commissioner Jeff

Benton of Delaware County for excellence in public service. He

described the event as well attended by public servants and encouraged

future participation. President Weaver referenced Councilmember

Renner’s earlier comments regarding the Earth Day resolution and noted

that the MORPC report included a link to the Central Ohio Climate Action

Plan. He described the plan as a shared roadmap toward a healthier,

more resilient, and more equitable future for the region and stated that it

outlines goals and actions for local governments, businesses,

organizations, and residents to reduce energy waste, improve air quality,

and strengthen the region. He concluded his report.

3. Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) - Padova

Councilmember Padova announced information regarding the upcoming

Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival. She stated that Visit Gahanna

offered residents an opportunity to receive a free ticket to the festival by

attending the Spring Showcase, which replaces the traditional annual

meeting with a more interactive, community-focused format. She

explained that the open house will take place on April 14, 2026, from

5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Noble Cut Distillery and will allow residents to

learn about programs, events, and partnerships led by Visit Gahanna.

She stated that guests who visit each station will receive a single-day

pass to the festival and noted that reservations are limited and available

through the Visit Gahanna website under the events tab. Councilmember

Padova reported that Visit Gahanna and the Ohio Herb Center will host

the annual Herb Day on May 3, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. She

described the event as an opportunity to purchase plants and begin

seasonal gardening and noted that it will include herb-related activities

and vendors. She stated that individuals interested in volunteering for

Herb Day may register through the Ohio Herb Center website under the

Herb Day tab. Additionally, Councilmember Padova stated that Urban

Restaurant Week will begin on May 3, 2026, in conjunction with Herb

Day. She explained that Visit Gahanna is partnering with local

businesses to offer herb-infused food and drink specials for one week

and noted that details regarding participating businesses will be

announced on the Visit Gahanna website and social media.

Councilmember Padova added that individuals who do not attend the

Spring Showcase may still obtain a ticket to the Creekside Blues and

Jazz Festival by volunteering. She stated that the volunteer registration

link is available on the festival website and noted that volunteers will

receive a t-shirt, snacks, and an invitation to a volunteer picnic in July.

She further stated that Sunday volunteers will receive a meal during their

shift. She encouraged residents to volunteer, attend the festival, and

engage with the community.

4. School Board (SB) - Jones

Vice President Jones reminded the Council of upcoming Gahanna

Jefferson Public School Board meetings for the month. She stated that

the Board Workshop Meeting will take place on April 9, 2026, at 6:30

p.m. at High Point Elementary. She reported that the Finance and

Facilities Meeting will occur on April 14, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at Clark Hall

and that the Regular Board Meeting will take place on April 16, 2026, at

6:30 p.m. at Clark Hall.

OFFICIAL REPORTS:

1. Mayor

Mayor Jadwin provided several updates and noted the upcoming events

schedule. She announced that the 2026 Community Grant Program

portal opened and stated that the application deadline is Monday, April

13, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. She explained that the program allows

Gahanna-based nonprofit organizations to apply for funding to support

community members, with a focus on basic needs. She directed

interested parties to the city’s website for additional information. Mayor

Jadwin announced that the Gahanna Bike Rodeo will take place on

Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Academy Park.

She stated that the event honors longtime resident Denny Oswald and

includes bike repair, helmet fittings, and safety courses. She noted that

Bicycle One will serve as a partner for the event. Mayor Jadwin stated

that, in recognition of Earth Day, Make Gahanna Yours will host a spring

community litter cleanup on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to

12:00 p.m. She explained that participants may meet at Friendship Park

or register in advance online and noted that the organization conducts

these events quarterly. Mayor Jadwin reported that the Walk in Our Boots

5K, organized by the American Legion to benefit Gahanna veterans and

homeless veterans in Central Ohio, will take place on May 2, 2026. She

stated that event information is available on the city’s website. Mayor

Jadwin announced that the city’s shred and e-recycle event will occur on

Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at City Hall, 200

South Hamilton Road. She explained that the event date changed from

its usual April timeframe and noted that the city’s website includes a list

of accepted and prohibited items. Mayor Jadwin also stated that the

State of the City video was released the previous week. She explained

that the city chose a video format in anticipation of the upcoming Civic

Center opening rather than hosting multiple large events. She stated that

the theme, “Cultivating Community,” aligns with the city’s strategic plan

and that the video is available on the city’s website and YouTube

channel. She invited residents to view the presentation.

2. City Attorney

City Attorney Tamilarasan reminded the Council that the Charter Review

Commission process was underway and stated that the next meeting

would occur on April 9, 2026. She explained that this meeting would

serve as the final opportunity for boards and commissions to return and

provide feedback. She stated that the commission would begin

deliberations following that meeting and noted that the public may attend

and speak during the public comment period at any meeting. City

Attorney Tamilarasan also reported that she is currently reviewing the

traffic and criminal code. She stated that, following a citizen inquiry at the

Charter Review Commission, she connected with the individual and

agreed to review the city’s golf cart regulations to determine whether their

use should be permitted within city limits. She added that she will include

this topic as a separate discussion item on a future agenda, apart from

the broader code review.

COUNCIL COMMENT:

Councilmember Renner thanked Sharon Montgomery for attending and

raising awareness about distracted driving. He stated that the community

is in a transition period and noted that various technical solutions exist to

modify driver behavior, including mobile applications offered by

insurance companies that provide incentives for not using phones while

driving. He explained that such applications detect motion and that

in-vehicle monitoring systems also discourage phone use. He stated that

his own vehicle issues warnings when he attempts to use his phone. He

expressed hope that the law will eventually align with these technological

advancements.

Councilmember McGregor encouraged residents to take advantage of

the spring season and visit local parklands. She explained that spring

wildflowers, known as ephemerals, bloom before tree leaves fully emerge

and remain visible for only a short period. She shared that she recently

visited Academy Park and observed early blooms and noted that

Gahanna Woods also offers opportunities to view these flowers. She

described Virginia bluebells as a notable example and encouraged

residents to explore local parks during Earth Month.

Councilmember Schnetzer stated that, although he had not planned

remarks, he wanted to highlight an additional volunteer opportunity

related to environmental stewardship. He described the annual Hoover

Reservoir litter cleanup, typically held on a Saturday in September from

9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., organized by the City of Columbus Watershed

Management. He explained that the reservoir serves as a major source

of drinking water for Columbus and Gahanna and encouraged

participation as a way to directly support water quality. He noted that

additional information is available through the City of Columbus website

or by email.

Councilmember Padova thanked the Parks Department for hosting the

Junior Rangers program and described the program as engaging young

children in learning about nature, ecosystems, and environmental

stewardship. She noted the program included activities for children ages

approximately four and a half to seven and commended staff for their

efforts. She also thanked Councilmember Renner for the Earth Day

resolution and stated that she scheduled a litter cleanup at a preschool in

recognition of Earth Day.

Councilmember Bowers thanked Scout Troop 898 from Gahanna

Community Congregational Church for attending the meeting and

learning about local government. She also thanked residents who

attended her recent constituent hour and stated that she plans to continue

offering such opportunities. She thanked Sharon Montgomery for her

continued advocacy on distracted driving and emphasized the

importance of promoting safe driving awareness throughout the year.

She noted her practice of recognizing August as Safe Driving and Share

the Road Month in connection with Pelotonia. She also highlighted

upcoming Columbus Metropolitan Club forums and encouraged

participation, noting that professional development funds are available.

She concluded by thanking Councilmember Renner for his presentation

and contributions regarding environmental stewardship.

Vice President Jones thanked Sharon Montgomery for her advocacy and

stated that her remarks serve as a reminder of the actions individuals

and the community can take. She thanked Councilmember Bowers and

Councilmember Renner for their resolutions recognizing important

community contributions. She announced that her upcoming constituent

hours on April 18, 2026, will begin at 12:30 p.m. at Sergeant Coffee. She

also announced that Juneteenth will return for its second year on June 19,

2026, at Creekside and stated that additional details will follow.

President Weaver echoed appreciation for Sharon Montgomery’s

advocacy and thanked Councilmember Renner and Councilmember

Bowers for their work on the resolutions. He emphasized the importance

of service, stewardship, and community engagement. He also

announced that the Gahanna Lincoln High School theatre department will

present “Grease” as its first mainstage production in the new high school

theater the following weekend and encouraged residents to attend and

support the performers and crew.

ADJOURNMENT:

With no further business before the Council, President Weaver

adjourned the meeting at 7:51 p.m.