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, August 4, 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, August 4,

2025, in Council Chambers. President of Council Merisa K. Bowers

called the meeting to order at 7:05 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 August 1, 2025.

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.

PRESENTATIONS:

Resolution Presentations by Council:

1. Franklin County Fair Queen Recognition

Recipient: Kate Acklin

Vice President Weaver introduced Ms. Kate Acklin, who was recently named

the Franklin County Fair Queen of 2025. She has been a 10-year exhibitor

and 4-H member at the Fair, as well a four-year member of the Franklin

County Farm Bureau. She has been 4-H camp counselor at the county and

state level, a member of both the Franklin County Junior Fair and the Ohio

State Fair Junior Fair Boards. Weaver described skills that Ms. Acklin has

attained during this time, including negotiation, public speaking, caring for

livestock, and hunting and cooking. Ms. Acklin cares for an active farm in

West Jefferson, providing her with firsthand experience. Weaver described

Ms. Acklin’s background as extensive in service within the Gahanna and

Central Ohio community, including her work as a volunteer for the Miracle

League, March of Dimes, Highpoint Elementary, St. Stephen’s House, and

G.R.I.N. Ms. Acklin has also been a Run the Race volunteer, mentored at-risk

youth, was active in the DeSales Autism Awareness Club, and was a

cheerleader, volleyball player, and tennis player. Weaver remarked on Ms.

Acklin’s ability to participate in a multitude of activities. He invited Ms. Acklin to

take a photo with Council, and to share any remarks of her own.

Kate Acklin introduced herself as the 2025 Franklin County Fair Queen. For

those unfamiliar with the Franklin County Fair, Ms. Acklin shared there are

activities for all ages, beyond those that she is involved in, which include 4H

and Farm Bureau. Council President Bowers thanked Ms. Acklin and her

family for attending the meeting.

2. Master Municipal Clerk Certification

Recipient: Jessica Hilts, Management Analyst

President Bowers introduced the next resolution, honoring Council Office staff

member Jessica Hilts for obtaining the Master Municipal Clerk (MMC)

designation through the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC), which

is the highest designation a professional clerk can achieve through the IIMC.

Mr. VanMeter added that Ms. Hilts has showed her commitment to the city

and profession through continuous educational endeavors and providing

excellent public service. He expressed pride in the work that Jessica does

every day to support City Council through communications and legislative

research. Mr. VanMeter invited Mollie Prasher, Clerk of Council for the City of

Reynoldsburg, to share additional remarks on Jessica’s achievement.

Mollie Prasher introduced herself as a past president of the Ohio Municipal

Clerks Association (OMCA) and the Clerk of Council for the City of

Reynoldsburg. She expressed honor to be able to attend the meeting to

recognize Jessica Hilts with her MMC Certification. Ms. Prasher explained

that The MMC is issued by the IIMC. The IIMC is a professional organization

founded in 1947 with over 15,000 members internationally, including the

United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Africa. The

primary goal of IIMC is to actively promote the continuing education and

professional development of municipal clerks through educational programs,

certifications, publications, networking, annual conferences, and research.

Ms. Prasher explained that the Master Municipal Clerk is a designation

program designed to enhance the job performance of the clerk in both small

and large communities. To earn the MMC designation, a municipal clerk must

have earned the certified municipal clerk's level and continue to attend

extensive education programs. The designation also requires pertinent

experience in a municipality. The program prepares the participant to meet

the challenges of the complex role of a municipal clerk by providing quality

education in partnership with 47 institutes of higher learning. The program has

been in existence since 1970 and has helped thousands of clerks in various

municipalities. Ms. Prasher also remarked on having previously presented

Ms. Hilts with her Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation. She described

the journey to certification as tedious and expressed that the MMC is a

designation very few clerks are able to accomplish. Out of 15,000

international municipal clerk members, Jessica is one of 2,968 members

worldwide to obtain this certification. In Ohio, she is only the 49th clerk to hold

a current MMC designation. Ms. Prasher stated that Ms. Hilts is dedicated to

the City of Gahanna and works very hard to do the best job possible for the

city and its residents. Ms. Hilts has also been a dedicated and active board

member of the Ohio Municipal Clerks Association. Ms. Hilts and Ms. Prasher

joined City Council for a photo.

Ms. Prasher then shifted to recognize Clerk of Council Jeremy VanMeter for

recently earning his CMC designation. She stated that out of the 15,000

international clerks, Mr. VanMeter is one of 3,626 members worldwide and

103rd in the State of Ohio to earn the CMC. She described Mr. VanMeter as a

dedicated member of the OMCA Board and expressed pride in working with

both Ms. Hilts and Mr. VanMeter.

President Bowers thanked Ms. Prasher for recognizing the Council Office

team, noting they work tirelessly to provide records, organize legislation, send

out communications, among other work. Bowers invited Ms. Hilts to share

comments.

Ms. Hilts took a moment to thank the Council for their support, noting the

importance of having supportive leaders as Clerks. Ms. Hilts extended her

thanks to her family, as well as mentors such as Ms. Prasher.

HEARING OF VISITORS:

Connor Woltman-Frollini of Gahanna, OH, spoke on protections for the rights

of the LGBTQIA+ community of Gahanna.

Mr. Woltman-Frollini described himself as deeply concerned about the

welfare of the LGBTQ+ community in Gahanna. He noted that since the 2024

election, calls to suicide crisis lifelines from LGBTQ+ youth have spiked by

over 700%. Additionally, 41% of LGBTQ+ youth have seriously considered

suicide, while nearly half of LGBTQ+ youth have reported wanting therapy but

not receiving it. He urged community members to take a stand, adding that

bullying, stigma, and lack of social and political acceptance are driving the

LGBTQ+ community to a brink. Additionally, safe places like Quiet Club Youth

Center are losing the vital funding and resources needed to continue doing

their work. Recently, the Center had 22 beds for homeless LGBTQ+ youth

cut in half, dropping to 11 beds. Mr. Woltman-Frollini expressed that youth are

beginning to be afraid to walk into the very places that are meant to support

them. He stated the issue was about humanity rather than politics and

highlighted multiple jurisdictions that have passed ordinances that aim to

protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. He urged Gahanna City Council

to follow in their footsteps, noting that Whitehall specifically has banned

conversion therapy and considers the City a safe haven for the LGBTQ+

community. He stated that health professionals attempting to help youth are

being silenced, while youth are falling through the cracks. He asked Council to

help make Gahanna a beacon of hope for the LGBTQ+ community.

Samuel Graff of Gahanna, OH, spoke on the proposed Velocis tax

abatement.

Mr. Graff spoke on the Velocis tax abatement, stating that he regularly

watches the livestreamed Council meetings and has been following the issue

for a couple of months. He recalled hearing another resident speak against

the tax abatement, as well as reading a Dispatch article on the topic. He

attended the meeting to speak in support of the tax abatement for Velocis. As

a homeowner and resident of the community, he wants Gahanna to continue

to thrive and remain competitive in the surrounding areas. He shared that he

moved to Gahanna from out of state seven years ago and has watched the

surrounding communities thrive. He believes tax abatements are crucial in

bringing businesses like Velocis into the area.

Paul Smith of Dallas, TX, spoke as one of the five Velocis partners.

Mr. Smith stated he was one of five Velocis partners. They represent the

equity for the development. He wanted to address Council for two reasons.

First, he noted there was confusion or concern about litigation regarding a

project in Bee Cave, in the area of Austin, Texas. Second, he planned to

speak on sponsorship for the project. Mr. Smith stated his belief there had

been confusion or concern about the lawsuit with Bee Cave. Due to litigation,

he could not share openly, but he shared with Council that Velocis and Bee

Cave were headed to a settlement. He acknowledged some documentation

still needed but stated a lot of activity happened over the weekend that was

good news for the City of Bee Cave and good news for the project. He

described that an existing tenant in Bee Cave plans to expand, increasing

jobs from 100 to 550. Mr. Smith stated this tenant was presented to the City

of Bee Cave as a resolution, which was embraced by the city, and it was

voted on as of last Tuesday, July 29, 2025. He believed they were headed for

settlement and that this would be a win-win situation. He believed this news

should clear up most concerns about the existing litigation related to the Bee

Cave project. Additionally, regarding sponsorship, the primary equity for the

proposed Gahanna development is being provided by Sumitomo Corp of

America, which is a $40 billion company based in New York City, with a

parent company in Japan with over $100 billion in assets. He noted they were

excited to be here and part of this project. On the debt side, the lender is

Huntington Bank, headquartered locally. Huntington is a $210 billion bank. Mr.

Smith described Huntington Bank as excited to be providing the debt financing

for the project. He described the depth of the equity and debt sponsorship as

unique. Mr. Smith closed by thanking Council for their efforts in understanding

the dynamics behind the project.

Jonathan Postweiler of Hinsdale, IL, spoke on ORD-0030-2025 (Velocis

abatement).

Mr. Postweiler described positive anticipated economic impacts to the city if

the ORD-0030-2025 was passed by City Council. He stated the city currently

receives $406 of revenue generated from the site, but it would bring in an

excess $40,000 annually to the city when developed. There are currently no

jobs or payroll. He noted the requested 12-year 80% abatement is below the

most recent approved speculative abasement, and no TIF dollars are sought

with this project. Mr. Postweiler stated the economic need for the abatement

has been demonstrated, and the financial justification for the 80% abatement

has been proven. He noted that corporate build-to-suit owner-users will not

target the site due to the site constraints. Mr. Postweiler expressed that the

project is the highest and best use for the site, and the economic case has

been demonstrated. He described the site as being underutilized for decades

with no material interest or serious inquiries regarding the site. He stated the

targeted use for the site has been approved by Planning and Zoning, and a

grant investment has been approved by JobsOhio. He stated the business’

organizational structure mirrors other institutional owners within the

community, and active unrelated litigation of past applicants did not disqualify

them from receiving more favorable abatement terms. Mr. Postweiler stated

the likely tenant profile for the facility is a local or regional company directly

benefiting the community. He shared that Gahanna was the top-choice for an

undisclosed tenant referenced in the July 21, 2025 meeting. He added that a

lease execution hinges upon the tax abatement approval, describing the

process as detailed and lengthy, noting a five-month period between

application and the vote tonight, which included five separate public meetings.

He noted that Council previously expressed concerns about the emergency

clause and, as a result, they withdrew that request for emergency. He

reviewed that the city attorney expressed concerns about assignment

language on July 31, 2025, and as a result, the company modified the

language to mirror that of the Scannell project. Mr. Postweiler stated that a

vote against the ordinance is a vote to suppress job growth, reject guaranteed

revenue for the community, disregard the Planning Department’s approvals

for industrial development at the site, overshadow the state’s desired financial

contribution, forfeit the long-term economic benefits the project offers, and

undermines the ability to lease the facility to a tenant KBC is actively

negotiating with. Additionally, he said it signals a desire to leave the property

vacant. He urged Council to support the project.

Linda Fromm of Upper Arlington, OH, spoke on the KBC development as the

VRG Chairman.

Ms. Fromm introduced herself as the widow of Barry Fromm, founder of

Value Recovery Group (VRG). She described VRG as woman owned and

family operated. She has been a member of the Gahanna community since

2005, when her late husband and VRG partnered with Franklin County and

the City of Gahanna to clean up the Bedford Landfill. The project evolved, and

roads and properties were developed, which attracted jobs and investments

that have added over $500,000 to the city’s real estate tax base. She recalled

a period of three years in which the City suspended Independence Day

fireworks, and the Fromm’s business was able to provide fireworks at the

Golf Depot. Today, VRG owns land in Gahanna, pays property tax, and works

attract development and jobs to the city. She explained that VRG has worked

to have the site developed, with very few prospects, for 16 years. She

described the due diligence done by VRG and being encouraged by JobsOhio

approval. Ms. Fromm shared that they had spent hundreds of hours meeting

with buyers, KBC and Velocis, outside professionals, advisers, and partners

and joining many of their internal discussions. Ms. Fromm stated that from

her team’s experience, KBC’s transparency exceeded past buyers, and was

confident that their presence in Gahanna would deliver results. She

expressed that not approving the ordinance would be a crushing blow to

Gahanna’s competitiveness and future prospects for growth, believing it

would be much harder for VRG to sell Gahanna. She emphasized her pride in

the VRG’s accomplishments for the city and pledged her team would

continue this impact. Ms. Fromm concluded that Council’s approval was

critical to Gahanna’s future, shared her thanks to Council, and looked forward

to the remainder of the meeting.

Beau Taggart of Upper Arlington, OH, spoke on ORD-0030-2025 (Velocis

abatement).

Mr. Taggart introduced himself to Council as the operator of the KBC Ohio

office, along with his partner Joe Kimener. He stated his family has built

buildings and owns businesses in Gahanna, highlighting a long history of

investment in the city. He has spent his career representing corporate

industrial users and has guided local companies and multinational firms alike.

He has transacted over $900 million work of industrial real estate over the

years, and he highlighted some of his recent projects, including Illuminates

(Pataskala), Pharmavite (New Albany), and Behr Paints (Hebron). He stated

they brought high quality jobs to central Ohio, which required significant state

and local incentives. Mr. Taggart added that industrial users are not

developers or investors. They do not spend time and capital solving issues

concerning zoning, utilities, traffic studies, wetlands, or endure lengthy due

diligence processes with the risk of being voted down. They rely on

professionals like KBC and Velocis to take on the risk and solve the site’s

challenges to deliver a turnkey solution. He noted that the projects he

highlighted were delivered with all entitlements, infrastructure, and a 15-year

100% tax abatement. Mr. Taggart stated the site has sat vacant for so long

because there has been no solution created for today’s industrial occupier,

and without the availability to provide a solution, including a tax abatement, the

site will remain vacant. He stated the project represents the highest and best

use for the site, adding that it brings a modern building that aligns with existing

zoning, and solves all barriers that a user would face, in order to bring high

quality jobs and investment to Gahanna. He ended by reiterating Mr.

Postweiler’s comment that this project was on a shortlist for a national

industrial supply company serving local trades.

Eric Fullam of Gahanna, OH, spoke via video on street repairs.

Mr. Fullam stated he has had continual problems with driveway and street

repair at his property. His driveway apron has been redone three times and

needs to be done again. He stated others have had similar issues. He shared

a post on the Facebook page “Take Back Gahanna” and heard from others

that have also dealt with driveway issues. He stated that as a community,

Gahanna needs its properties to look better, or at least the same as they did

prior to repairs. He did not feel adequate notice was given to property owners

regarding driveway apron replacement. Mr. Fullam expressed that half of the

apron was replaced, and the entire apron should have been replaced. He also

shared his confusion of the policy and who makes decisions on driveway

apron replacement. He stated the importance of having high standards for the

type of work being done, adding that it took multiple contact attempts to

receive a reply from city staff. He closed by expressing the importance of

having quality work done for the city’s residents.

PUBLIC HEARINGS:

ORD-0031-2025

ORD-0032-2025

ORD-0034-2025

AN ORDINANCE TO LEVY SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR CERTAIN

REAL ESTATE WITHIN THE 2022 SIDEWALK MAINTENANCE

PROGRAM, TO APPROVE COSTS AND QUANTITIES, AND TO

DECLARE AN EMERGENCY

Public Hearing held August 4, 2025.

AN ORDINANCE TO LEVY SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR CERTAIN

REAL

ESTATE

WITHIN

THE

2024 SIDEWALK

MAINTENANCE

PROGRAM, TO APPROVE COSTS AND QUANTITIES, AND TO

DECLARE AN EMERGENCY

Public Hearing held August 4, 2025.

AN ORDINANCE TO REAUTHORIZE AND AMEND THE CREEKSIDE

OUTDOOR REFRESHMENT AREA (CORA) IN ACCORDANCE WITH

OHIO REVISED CODE 4301.82

Public Hearing held August 4, 2025.

Clerk VanMeter read into the record the three ordinances to be considered

under one public hearing, ORD-0031-2025, ORD-0032-2025, and

ORD-0034-2025. President Bowers asked if the administration would like to

make any presentation or comment. The administration had no further

presentation or comment. President Bowers noted the rules for the public

hearing pursuant to Council Rule 9.10 and 9.11.

President Bowers opened the public hearing at 7:44 p.m.

Erica Parker, 304 Haymarket Place, Gahanna, OH.

Ms. Parker attended the meeting to contest the 2022 Sidewalk Maintenance

Program. She stated that she did not acquire the property until June of 2024

and was against sharing the cost for the sidewalk program. She was not

aware of what part of the sidewalk had maintenance performed on her

property. The total cost to be assessed was $946.22.

Erin Smith, 634 King George Ave, Gahanna, OH, spoke via video.

Ms. Smith spoke on the 2022 Sidewalk Maintenance Program, of which she

was a part. She requested that extra assistance be provided for properties on

corner lots, which shoulder more of the cost burden than other properties.

She expressed that she supports the improvements and wants Gahanna to

be handicap accessible. As a possible solution, Erin provided two

suggestions to Council. First, a lot-split could occur so that she only paid for

the improvements that accomplished the goal of making Gahanna more

accessible. Or, additional assistance could be provided to those who have

corner lots. She expressed appreciation for the 50% cost share, but noted

that her neighbor paid around $200 while her cost was over $1,700. Of the

258 parcels involved in the 2022 Sidewalk Maintenance Program, Ms. Smith

said her assessment was the third highest cost of improvement. Overall, only

15 parcels were over $1,000. She noted that about 10% took on the repairs

themselves and could not attest to their costs. She closed by acknowledging

that Council was “stuck between a rock and a hard place” with this issue, and

again hoped for an extra boost in cost-share as a corner lot. She thanked the

city for its efforts in making Gahanna more accessible.

Christian Salamon, 911 Ashford Glen Dr, Gahanna, OH.

Mr. Salamon addressed Council regarding sidewalk program concerns. He

stated he and his wife moved to Gahanna just weeks ago and had several

things to address in their new home, including plumbing. The storm water

drain underground was crushed where it met the sidewalk and it was

anticipated to be an expensive fix. He hoped for leniency on his portion of the

sidewalk program.

Judit Bach, 644 Moss Oak Ave, Gahanna, OH.

Dr. Bach spoke on the Sidewalk Maintenance Program. She stated there was

a discrepancy between the original plan and the completed project. She

stated two blocks were to be changed, which did not happen. She contacted

the city during the winter, and was told the project would continue after winter.

However, she received a notification and expressed confusion about the

status of the project. She expressed concern that if she would have to

perform the work herself without the 50 percent share, it would be much

more, when it had originally been included as part of the program.

President Bowers closed the public hearing at 7:53 p.m. and noted that

speakers may receive outreach from the administration. She added that the

Sidewalk Maintenance assessment ordinances would be voted on during a

subsequent Council meeting.

CONSENT AGENDA:

1. Minutes - To Approve:

2025-0149

2025-0150

Council Regular Minutes 7.21.2025

The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda.

Committee of the Whole Minutes 7.21.2025

The minutes were approved on the Consent Agenda.

2. Motions:

MT-0008-2025

A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF GAHANNA BIDDING FOR THE

2025 STREET REBUILD AND SIDEWALK MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

WITH WATERLINE REPLACEMENT (ST-1116)

The Motion was approved on the Consent Agenda.

MT-0009-2025

A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF GAHANNA BIDDING FOR THE

TAYLOR ROAD WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT PROJECT

The Motion was approved 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-0032-2025

A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING AND HONORING KATE ACKLIN, 2025

FRANKLIN COUNTY FAIR QUEEN

President Bowers thanked Miss Acklin and her family for attending. She

recognized Gahanna residents who had participated in the Franklin County

Fair and the Ohio State Fair. She noted that a number of urban farmers,

urban beekeepers, and craftspeople lived in Gahanna and submitted projects

to the fairs through 4-H or other entryways. She said the fairs provided a way

to keep those cultural activities alive and expressed appreciation for the

residents’ contributions and for the recognition Vice President Weaver had

brought forward that evening.

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

Adopted. The motion carried by the following vote:

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

Yes:

RES-0033-2025

RESOLUTION COMMENDING JESSICA HILTS, MANAGEMENT

ANALYST, ON THE ACHIEVEMENT OF "MASTER MUNICIPAL

CLERK" (MMC) AS AWARDED BY THE INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE

OF MUNICIPAL CLERKS

A motion was made by Weaver, seconded by Schnetzer, 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:

ORD-0031-2025

ORD-0032-2025

ORD-0034-2025

AN ORDINANCE TO LEVY SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR CERTAIN

REAL ESTATE WITHIN THE 2022 SIDEWALK MAINTENANCE

PROGRAM, TO APPROVE COSTS AND QUANTITIES, AND TO

DECLARE AN EMERGENCY

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

AN ORDINANCE TO LEVY SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR CERTAIN

REAL

ESTATE

WITHIN

THE

2024 SIDEWALK

MAINTENANCE

PROGRAM, TO APPROVE COSTS AND QUANTITIES, AND TO

DECLARE AN EMERGENCY

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

AN ORDINANCE TO REAUTHORIZE AND AMEND THE CREEKSIDE

OUTDOOR REFRESHMENT AREA (CORA) IN ACCORDANCE WITH

OHIO REVISED CODE 4301.82

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

ORDINANCES FOR SECOND READING / ADOPTION:

Recommended Amendment - Removal of Emergency Declaration

ORD-0030-2025

AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO A

COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT AREA AGREEMENT WITH VELOCIS

GAHANNA JV, LP TO FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN

INDUSTRIAL

BUILDING

PARCELS

027-000110-00 AND

025-13634-00 ON TECH CENTER DRIVE, PART OF COMMUNITY

REINVESTMENT AREA #3; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY

The Clerk read the Ordinance by title.

On the question of adoption, Schnetzer moved and Renner seconded.

President Bowers noted the need to amend the ordinance in three ways: 1)

amending the second parcel number in the title and body of the ordinance

(change to 025-013634-00), 2) removing the emergency declaration, and 3)

substitute the EXHIBIT A for attachment labeled “CRA Agreement DRAFT

CLEAN, KBC-Velocis. 08.04.2025.”

On the question of amendments as articulated by President Bowers, Weaver

moved and Schnetzer seconded.

Discussion on the Amendment

Councilmember Schnetzer requested that City Attorney Tamilarasan

summarize, in layman's terms, the draft titled “CRA Agreement DRAFT

CLEAN, KBC-Velocis. 08.04-2025,” highlighting key changes and the rationale

behind them.

City Attorney Tamilarasan explained that, in addition to correcting

typographical errors, the bulk of the changes addressed two areas. First, she

revised the section defining job creation and payroll to reference the chart

because the previous language created ambiguity about whether the

minimum threshold payment applied from year one or only in year seven; she

amended the language to reference the chart. Second, she revised the

assignability provisions. The original draft allowed assignment as a right

without city approval, so she added city oversight of assignability for

subsequent transfers or purchasers, with two exceptions: an internal change

of company ownership that merely changed the company name, and

assignments required by a bank as part of financing. She noted that the city

would have the right to approve subsequent transfers except in those two

situations. Tamilarasan reported that the administration circulated a form to

implement that oversight and that she submitted a draft form modeled on the

Scannell deal CRA assignment. She described the draft as a two-page

document that outlined assignment obligations and warranties confirming that

the obligations had been fulfilled to date and that the new company would

assume all responsibilities and benefits of the original agreement. She stated

that, given the amount of due diligence in the transaction, she considered

protections for subsequent transfers necessary and expected in this case.

She concluded by saying that those constituted the bulk of her

recommendations to ensure the contract remained legally sound.

A motion was made by Weaver, seconded by Schnetzer, that the Ordinance be

Amended. The motion carried by the following vote:

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

Yes:

Discussion on the Ordinance as Amended:

Councilmember Schnetzer said he hoped Gahanna residents found

assurance in the degree of due diligence performed on the matter. He noted

the value of having three independently elected, co-equal branches of

government, Council, the Administration, and the independently elected City

Attorney’s office, each of which had played a major role in reaching the

current point. He praised the Administration for conducting extensive due

diligence and presenting the economic case, observed that Council had

asked pertinent questions, and acknowledged the City Attorney’s substantial

effort and multiple revisions, including work over the weekend. He stated his

confidence that the Council would reach the right decision, given the

all-hands-on-deck approach.

Councilmember Padova thanked everyone who had worked on the matter

and everyone who had attended the meeting. She said she appreciated the

intention behind the proposal and the desire to support continued

development in Gahanna. She stated that she had voted no on a similar

abatement three years earlier and that she would vote no again that evening

for the same reason: she could not support tax abatements for billion-dollar

companies while residents struggled with rising property taxes. She

emphasized that her objection concerned the system rather than the

companies involved. She acknowledged that abatements represent common

economic development practice but questioned whether the practice served

as good policy or simply as a norm. She described Velocis as a billion-dollar

investment firm that would profit by renting space and employ roughly

thirty-seven people at an average annual wage of about $55,000, and she

expressed hope for the project’s success if the ordinance passed. Ultimately,

she said the Council would offer a tax break to a corporation with vast

resources while collecting full taxes from everyday workers, and that

disconnect led her to vote no to show her commitment to Gahanna residents.

Councilmember McGregor stated that she did not favor tax abatements but

recognized they constituted a tool the city must use. She observed that other

communities used the tool and that, if Gahanna declined to use it, the city

would lose economic development opportunities to neighboring jurisdictions.

She added that abatement programs reduce taxes collected by other entities

such as the library and senior services, but she characterized the abatement

as a state-approved economic tool commonly used across Ohio and said

failing to use it would seem shortsighted.

Vice President Weaver thanked the applicant, the Administration, and Director

Gottke for their efforts and for the memo circulated to Council. He reiterated

that communities possess various tools to attract and retain businesses and

that tax incentives, including abatements, form part of that tool chest. He

described the objective of a well-used abatement as attracting a business

that would not locate in Gahanna “but for” the incentive, and he said the city

undertakes such actions on the belief that the end use will produce a net

benefit. He acknowledged he had weighed pros and cons and noted that the

parcel had remained vacant and underutilized for some time; he said a spec

warehouse did not seem an inappropriate use and that the guaranteed

income tax represented a benefit. He expressed concern about the

percentage and term of the abatement and about the comparability of

historical agreements. He raised accountability concerns regarding subsidiary

entities and the lack of clarity about who would ultimately uphold the

agreement. He also criticized comments pointing to a lengthy timeline for

considering the abatement, observing that Council had had the application

since June 9, 2025, still advancing the ordinance to a first reading knowing it

was going to go back to Committee of the Whole. He expressed pride in his

colleagues for asking questions. He reported that residents had pulled him

aside in public extensively to discuss the abatement application and stated

that, while he appreciated ongoing efforts with site development and the

proposed guaranteed income tax, he would vote no on the application.

Councilmember Renner said the project had not initially excited him but that

he considered it his duty to evaluate proposals on substance rather than first

impressions. He noted the parcel had remained undeveloped for thirty years,

lay within a designated community reinvestment area, and that the CRA

aimed to incentivize private investment, attract job-creating businesses, and

strengthen the tax base. He acknowledged the significance of a twelve-year,

eighty percent abatement, approximately $3.72 million over the term, while

noting the developer would pay the remaining twenty percent of property

taxes. He referenced Director Gottke’s memo, which projected a sixty-nine

percent return on investment and an expected $2.57 million value to the city

and community. He recalled past periods when the city sought development

interest and argued the proposal could reactivate dormant land, attract private

investment, and build long-term tax revenue. From a sustainability

perspective, he called the project smart land use and praised the site as infill

development that reused land with existing infrastructure. He raised concerns

that the project might not include strong environmental design standards or

robust support for clean transportation and expressed apprehension about

adding to regional traffic and emissions, while noting potential future mitigation

through vehicle electrification and cleaner freight. He acknowledged that

thirty-seven jobs might seem modest but urged viewing the project as part of

a larger strategy to restore economic energy in the area. He concluded that,

despite imperfections, the proposal represented progress and that, on

balance, he believed it made sense for Gahanna; he stated he would vote in

favor of the ordinance.

Councilmember Jones thanked everyone who had invested time and effort in

the process. She said the parcel had proved difficult to develop and that she

had weighed the proposal to determine the best opportunity for the

community. She stated she did not believe the proposal served the

community’s best interest and listed several unresolved concerns that left her

uneasy. She said many residents had raised questions that had not yet

answered to her satisfaction. She thanked Councilmember Padova for

remarks on tax abatements, acknowledged that abatements represented a

common practice, and said the proposal felt tone-deaf given the financial

strain on many residents. She noted the project had been described as

speculative and observed that the Council later received an update indicating

the tenant identity, which remained confidential; she said that confidentiality

and the lack of openness made it difficult to evaluate benefits and risks. She

raised concerns about the agreement’s layered structure and said the

complexity prompted questions about whether the process obscured

information. She said the prospect of the building being sold in a few years

suggested a transactional relationship and stated that residents and she

wanted partners, not investors who merely sought profit. She concluded that

the agreement felt transactional rather than partnership-oriented and said she

would cast a no vote.

Councilmember McGregor said she understood that the tax abatement

applied to a business and acknowledged that property taxes presented a

heavy burden for many individuals. She said rejecting the proposal would not

reduce residents’ property taxes and observed that the school district would

receive a substantial increase in revenue from the development that would

not occur if the Council rejected the project. She said rejecting the project

would shift the burden back to residents and argued that encouraging

development helped support school levies and other tax needs.

Mayor Jadwin said she appreciated the comments and observed the Council

had discussed the project for approximately six to eight weeks since its initial

presentation. She said everyone on Council held the community’s best

interest at heart and that the administration sought opportunities to position

the city for long-term economic success. She explained that the city funded

many services largely through income tax generated by local businesses and

jobs and listed recent examples of services and programs, such as swearing

in a new police officer, promoting a dispatcher, a new street sweeping

program, and the street and sidewalk cost-sharing mechanism, that

depended on such revenue. She said the administration evaluated incentives

strategically, described the project as addressing a regional demand for small

flex industrial space, and noted that nine spec warehouse projects had

emerged in the Columbus region since the council first discussed the

proposal on June 9, 2025. She said two Gahanna businesses sought larger

space and currently looked in other communities, and she argued the project

could offer room for existing businesses to grow. She named several

companies that had started in spec warehouse space and later became

community partners: ADB Safegate, Benchmark Industrial, the Romanoff

Group, and Grimco. She said the project could create diverse job

opportunities and that incentives remained a widely used municipal tool until

state policy changed. She stated the administration vetted projects and

sometimes declined them when the return on investment did not justify

incentives. She said Director Gottke had presented a detailed analysis of the

project’s benefits and reiterated that the school district’s property tax revenue

would increase from $406 annually to $44,000 annually on the land value,

representing a 107 percent increase, and that the district would continue to

receive that revenue while the abatement would apply to 80 percent of new

vertical value. She identified Nate Green of the Montrose Group, Director

Gottke, and JobsOhio as economic development experts who had evaluated

and supported the project, and she said she trusted the directors and experts

who had guided the administration. She urged Councilmembers to support

the project.

President Bowers thanked the Mayor for her remarks and acknowledged the

need to create jobs that produce diverse workforces. She thanked attendees

who had traveled from Texas and Illinois and specifically thanked Mr.

Postweiler and the Fromms for sharing information and for VRG’s

contributions to Gahanna. She clarified that the vote that evening did not

concern zoning nor whether VRG could or should sell to the applicant. She

stated the vote concerned an 80 percent abatement for 12 years, which she

estimated would total approximately $3.7 million in tax relief, or roughly

$310,000 annually. She said the project projected to generate approximately

37 jobs at an average salary of about $55,000 per year and that the site would

provide room to house 30 semi-tractor trailers. She described the site

location at the top of Tech Center Drive adjacent to the trail that runs between

neighborhood communities off Taylor Road into Edison and the businesses

that have developed along Tech Center and Science. She reiterated that the

Council did not yet know who the tenant would be for the speculative

warehouse. President Bowers acknowledged the rationale for speculative

development and noted that, as proposed, the project could proceed if the

owner paid the assessed property taxes. She said the item before Council

instead requested that Council subsidize those taxes and emphasized that

the decision to grant an incentive remained wholly discretionary; she added

that no applicant, whether a local small business or a large out-of-state

investment group, held an entitlement to an abatement. She said Council

historically had acted intentionally, thoughtfully, and respectfully when

evaluating incentives to ensure the city approved deals that made sense for

the community. She listed recent incentive approvals-Columbus Aesthetic

and Plastic Surgery, Burns and Scalo, and Ortho One-and said Council had

asked similar questions of the KBC Velocis team regarding hiring practices,

interest in Gahanna, and the likelihood the business would remain in city

limits. She said the Council had not obtained many of those answers for the

current proposal because the end user remained unknown. President Bowers

thanked Mr. Postweiler for sharing transparency that, she said, indicated the

tenant likely would leave after the abatement expired to locate a cheaper,

newer facility that also offered an abatement; she said that remark illustrated

the transactional nature referenced earlier by Councilmember Jones. She

observed that others had described abatements regionally as a “race to the

bottom” and stated that the short-term benefit in the present case would

accrue to KBC, Velocis, and VRG. She expressed concern that the city might

end up with another vacant property at the end of the abatement term, albeit

developed. She briefly referenced pending litigation involving the City of Bee

Cave, Texas, and noted that the third amended complaint had appeared after

discovery began; she said she had observed comments at the July 21, 2025,

meeting that characterized those allegations as baseless and that she had

noticed a similar tenor between the parties in that litigation and among

participants in the Council discussion. She agreed with Councilmembers

Padova, Weaver, and Jones that, although the project might produce some

benefit by bringing 37 jobs, she did not see value in a $3.7 million abatement

and therefore could not support the request.

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

Adopted as Amended. The motion failed by the following vote:

3 - McGregor, Renner and Schnetzer

4 - Bowers, Jones, Padova and Weaver

Yes:

No:

CORRESPONDENCE AND ACTIONS:

1. Clerk - None.

2. Council

President Bowers noted that the latest bimonthly newsletter was available

and indicated that attendees could view a copy linked on the agenda.

2025-0148

Your City Council at Work Newsletter - May-June 2025

REPRESENTATIVES:

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

Councilmember Padova reported that the next meeting for CIC will be on

August 19, 2025 at 8 a.m.

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

Vice President Weaver reminded members that Clerk VanMeter had

circulated invitation to the Summit on Sustainability scheduled for Tuesday,

September 30, 2025. He encouraged members to reserve a spot. He also

noted he would have more to report at the next regular meeting.

3. Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) - Padova

Councilmember Padova thanked everyone who had attended the Spirit

Station on Saturday to cheer on the Pelotonia riders. She said the turnout had

been great and praised the partnership with Make Gahanna Yours, noting that

riders waved, rang bells, and blew bubbles as they passed. She asked

attendees to save the date for Holiday Lights on November 23. She

announced that Visit Gahanna was partnering with Experience Columbus to

offer a Gahanna-area Experience Columbus Insider (ECI) accreditation

course on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the library and

said interested persons could contact Visit Gahanna or Experience

Columbus.

4. School Board (SB) - Jones

Councilmember Jones noted that GJPS students would return to school in

ten days and used the opportunity to review the district’s communication

channels. She listed the district website, social media, email or phone contact

for building staff, talking points for those with students, and a monthly

newsletter delivered by email to which anyone could subscribe; she added

that parents in the district automatically received the newsletter and offered to

provide signup information to anyone who did not receive it. She reported that

the district sent two mailers each year to all registered voters in the district,

often containing financial information of interest to residents. She also

reminded Council that the school board offered regular board meetings,

workshops, and informal opportunities such as “coffee and conversation,”

and she said that all of that information appeared on the district website.

OFFICIAL REPORTS:

1. Mayor

Mayor Jadwin extended her congratulations to Cindy Macioce and Jeff

Shellhammer for their vision and for bringing the Gahanna Lincoln High

School alumni musical performance of 42nd Street to life. She said the

performance, which occurred about ten days earlier, featured exceptional

performers, musicians, costumes, and set design and rivaled Broadway

touring shows. She expressed hope the performance could become an

annual event and thanked those who brought the production to the

community. Mayor Jadwin reported that Saturday August 2, 2025, had

featured many community events: the Spirit Station from Pelotonia, the 50th

anniversary celebration of the Gahanna Municipal Golf Course with a

three-day event, the Capital City Corvette car show, Gym Skills’ 20th

anniversary, Edison Fest’s fifth anniversary, and a Columbus Jazz Orchestra

presentation at Headley Park presented by the Gahanna Area Arts Council.

She thanked the organizations, volunteers, businesses, sponsors, and staff

members who contributed to those events. Mayor Jadwin announced National

Night Out at Headley Park the following evening, August 5, 2025, from 5:00 to

8:00 p.m. and encouraged community members to attend and engage with

police officers. She noted that community liaison officers Blair Thomas and

Ann Jodon had worked to make the event the biggest and best yet and said

the event would include a dunk tank with several participants, including

Councilmember Weaver, Chief Spence, and herself. She urged attendees to

warm up their pitching arms. Mayor Jadwin reminded the community that

school would begin the following Thursday and Friday, August 14th and 15th,

and urged drivers to slow down and exercise caution in school zones and

neighborhoods because pedestrian traffic would increase. She said the city

would issue additional communications in partnership with Superintendent Dr.

Deagle and her team.

2. City Attorney

City Attorney Tamilarasan reported that the city had participated in litigation

with the City of Columbus concerning tobacco regulation and preemption and

what she described as challenges to home rule. She said the court of

appeals had decided in favor of the municipalities. She added that the city

awaited and expected an appeal to the Ohio Supreme Court.

COUNCIL COMMENT:

Councilmember McGregor joked that the dunk tank water (for National Night

Out) would not be warm. She congratulated Kate Acklin, recalled personal

memories involving Acklin and her granddaughter, and thanked the Council

for the resolution honoring Acklin.

Councilmember Jones said she had spent much of the previous month away

from Gahanna but enjoyed returning for the many lovely events in the city.

She thanked the organizations, volunteers, and attendees who supported

those events. She also thanked the speakers who participated during public

comment and encouraged resident engagement. She congratulated Kate

Acklin and commended Connor Woltman-Frollini for speaking at the meeting.

Councilmember Padova congratulated Kate Acklin and said reading the

resolution had served as a trip down memory lane given her own 4-H

background. She welcomed the recent increase in youth participation at

Council meetings and said the engagement gave her hope for the future.

Councilmember Renner echoed appreciation for youth participation and

congratulated the young man who spoke and Kate Acklin. He thanked Mr.

Weaver for the detailed resolution and recalled his own 4-H experiences. He

also congratulated Jessica Hilts and Jeremy VanMeter on earning their

certificates and praised their work in the Council Office. He described

witnessing an elderly woman crossing at the Stygler and Route 62

intersection on an electric scooter and said he assisted her across the

roadway (see attachment 2025-0152); he highlighted mobility concerns for

older residents and the need to address them.

Councilmember Schnetzer thanked everyone who had a hand in hosting and

facilitating the many city events that past weekend and recounted attending

the Capital City Corvette Club car show with his sons. He reflected on the

city’s structure of three independently elected, co-equal branches of

government and said he valued that accountability to residents.

Vice President Weaver thanked Mr. Schnetzer for his remarks and the

community for supporting the alumni musical. He described alumni efforts

and intergenerational participation in the production, noted benefits to local

foundations, and praised the Gahanna Area Arts Council for the recent

Columbus Jazz Orchestra event at Headley Park. He closed with thanks to

the community and organizers.

President Bowers thanked Chief Spence and Director Schultz for a recent

tour of the municipal complex and expressed enthusiasm for the complex’s

benefits to staff, Council, residents, and community gatherings. She

applauded the new multipurpose room and expanded Senior Center at 825

Tech Center Drive and said the project would serve the community for

generations. President Bowers thanked residents who spoke about sidewalk

assessments, noted the city’s 50 percent cost-share policy and the option to

spread remaining costs over five years without interest, and said the

administration would continue outreach. She thanked the large number of

residents in attendance that evening and said she had followed up with Mr.

Woltman-Follini regarding LGBTQ protections the city had enacted, noting

that Gahanna voters approved non-discrimination language in the charter by a

70 percent margin in 2001.

2025-0152

Councilmember Renner Photo - Stygler/Agler/US 62 Intersection

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

President Bowers announced one final item on the evening's agenda: a

motion to enter executive session and stated that the Council had no further

business to come out of that session. She then entertained a motion to enter

executive session under Section 5.40(a) of the Council Rules of Procedure to

consider the appointment of a public employee or official and asked if there

was a motion.

David Hodge of Underhill & Hodge interrupted from the audience and

respectfully requested reconsideration of Ordinance 0030-2025. President

Bowers responded that the rules did not entertain motions from the floor by

residents and that Mr. Hodge had not received recognition to request a motion

that evening. Mr. Hodge asserted that the Council must allow an opportunity

to request reconsideration either that evening or at the next meeting, noted

that he had reviewed the rules of conduct and found no specific reference to

the timing for such a motion, and reiterated his request for a motion.

President Bowers told Mr. Hodge he was out of line, that he had not received

recognition on the floor, and requested that he take his seat and speak with

the administration or Councilmembers after adjournment. Mr. Hodge asked

whether the Council would deny his request for reconsideration. President

Bowers replied that he was not an appropriate person to make such a motion.

Mr. Hodge maintained he was an appropriate person to request a motion for

reconsideration. President Bowers again requested that he be seated. Mr.

Hodge acknowledged the request and said, “Understood.” President Bowers

then proceeded with the regular order of business, acknowledged Mr.

Weaver’s motion for executive session, and called for a second.

A motion was made by Weaver, seconded by Jones, to go into Executive

Session under authority of Section 5.40(a) of the Council Rules of Procedure

to consider the appointment of a public employee or official.

The motion carried by the following vote:

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

Yes:

President Bowers announced that Council would meet in Executive Session

in the Law Library.

Council rose to report to Executive Session at 9:03 p.m.

Council rose to report from Executive Session at 9:31 p.m. with no further

action.

ADJOURNMENT:

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

meeting at 9:31 p.m.