Athens County public meetings in 2024

Recreation Advisory Board

The Athens Recreation Advisory Board will review updates from ad hoc committees, consider new member recruitment, hear the APR staff report, and receive community insights and feedback. The agenda also notes the date for the next meeting on January 16, 2025. No specific decisions or actions are detailed beyond these discussion items.

• Ad Hoc Committee Updates
• New Member Recruitment
• APR Staff Report
• Community Insights and Feedback
• Next Meeting scheduled for January 16, 2025

Planning Commission

The Athens Planning Commission will consider two zone change requests and discuss updates to the city code. The meeting includes communications regarding the Ohio University Translational Research Center.

• Case #24-07 Zone Change Request: 0 Pomeroy Rd.
• Case #24-10 Zone Change Request: 111 Hooper St.
• Proposed changes to ACC Chapter 23.09
• Communication regarding Ohio University Translational Research Center

Affordable Housing Commission

The Athens County Affordable Housing Commission will meet to establish a quorum, review committee reports, and hear updates on short-term rental changes and the Pomeroy Road Housing project.

• Review progress on committee projects and goals
• Hear updates on Short Term Rental changes from Meghan
• Hear updates on the Pomeroy Rd Housing project from Solveig
• Hear updates on Emergency Housing from Solveig
• Hear updates from the Board of Zoning Appeals

City Council

The Athens City Council will consider a series of ordinances, including a proposal to raise the general city income tax by .30% per year starting Jan. 1, 2026 and place the question on the May 6, 2025 primary ballot. Other items include authorizing the mayor to use the transient‑guest tax to fund the Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia, a waterline replacement on Factory Street, and agreements on wages and working conditions with AFSCME Local 2403. The council will also address non‑union compensation for the assistant law director and prosecutor and several code amendments.

• Ordinance 0-128-24: increase general city income tax by .30% per annum, ballot question for May 6, 2025 primary
• Ordinance 0-130-24: authorize waterline replacement on Factory Street
• Ordinance 0-112-24: mayor to enter agreement using transient‑guest tax to fund the Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia (ORCA)
• Ordinance 0-135-24: mayor to execute agreement with AFSCME Local 2403 on wages and working conditions
• Ordinance 0-137-24: increase non‑union compensation for the assistant law director and prosecutor

Municipal Arts Commission

The Athens Municipal Arts Commission will hold a special meeting on December 11, 2024 at 5:30 PM. The meeting will be held at Athens Uncorked to support the "Words and Wine on Wednesday" event hosted by Stephanie Kendrick, the Athens Poet Laureate. No formal agenda is provided for this meeting. The City of Athens affirms compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and provides contact information for accommodation requests.

• Support for "Words and Wine on Wednesday" event hosted by Stephanie Kendrick
• Meeting location: Athens Uncorked
• No formal agenda for the meeting

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hear two variance applications. One request seeks to reduce required parking from 56 spaces to 3 and front setback from 10 ft to 5 ft 9 in at 141 Mill Street, Zone R3. The other request seeks to reduce side setback from 5 ft to 2 ft at 5 Arden Place, Zone R1. The meeting will also include disposition of the minutes from the November 12, 2024 meeting.

• Case #24-19V: Variance at 141 Mill Street (Zone R3) – reduce parking spaces to 3 and front setback to 5 ft 9 in.
• Case #24-20V: Variance at 5 Arden Place (Zone R1) – reduce side setback to 2 ft.
• Disposition of minutes from the November 12, 2024 meeting.

City Council

The Athens City Council will consider a series of ordinances, including a proposal to raise the general city income tax by .30% per year starting Jan. 1, 2026 and place the question on the May 6, 2025 primary ballot. Other items include a rezoning of 0 Pomeroy Road from R‑1 to R‑3, contracts for health‑insurance administration and solar renewable energy credit leasing, and infrastructure projects such as a Factory Street waterline replacement and ADA ramp upgrades at Court and Union Streets.

• Rezoning of 0 Pomeroy Road from R‑1 to R‑3 (Planning & Development Committee)
• Ordinance 0-128-24: increase general city income tax by .30% per annum and ballot question
• Ordinance 0-127-24: authorize lease or monetization of the city’s solar renewable energy credits (SRECs)
• Ordinance 0-130-24: authorize waterline replacement on Factory Street
• Ordinance 0-131-24: emergency approval to replace ADA ramps at Court and Union Street intersection

Community Relations Commission

The Athens Community Relations Commission will begin with a land acknowledgement and a review of September and October meeting notes. It will discuss updates on discrimination reporting, website changes, anti‑racism meetings, advisory board activities, membership recruitment, and the community welcome event. The commission will then review a new bias and discrimination report. The next meeting is scheduled for January 29, 2025.

• Reading of land acknowledgement
• Review of September and October meeting notes
• Updates on discrimination reporting
• Updates on anti‑racism meetings and advisory board
• Review of bias and discrimination report

Planning Commission

The Athens Planning Commission will meet to discuss a zone change request for a specific property. The meeting also includes reports from the Code Enforcement Director and City Planner.

• Zone Change Request for 111 Hooper Street

Environment & Sustainability Commission

The commission will review follow‑up items from previous meetings, including the international student project, the Element grant, a proposed Gmail address for the commission, compost resolution status, and sustainability resources for the city website. They will also discuss the commission's annual reporting. New business includes a report from a Hocking River water‑quality presentation.

• International student project follow‑up
• Element grant follow‑up
• Discussion of commission Gmail address
• Compost resolution follow‑up
• Report on Hocking River water‑quality presentation

City Council

The Athens City Council meeting will review dozens of ordinances at various reading stages, covering budget appropriations, non‑union compensation, fringe‑benefit packages, and several contracts. Key items include a proposed increase to the city income tax, a waterline replacement on Factory Street, and emergency work on ADA ramps at Court and Union Streets. The council will also consider contracts for health‑insurance administration and monetizing solar renewable energy credits.

• Ordinance 0-128-24: increase general city income tax by .30% per year starting Jan 1 2026, ballot question for May 2025 primary
• Ordinance 0-130-24: authorize waterline replacement on Factory Street
• Ordinance 0-131-24: emergency ordinance to replace ADA ramps and crosswalks at Court and Union Streets
• Ordinance 0-122-24: contract with Employee Benefit Service Center as third‑party health‑insurance administrator
• Ordinance 0-127-24: lease or monetize the city’s solar renewable energy credits (SRECs)

City Council

Athens City Council will meet to discuss a Transit Development Plan and an Income Tax Increase. The meeting also includes committee discussions on reducing 2024 year-end appropriations and a tentative agreement with AFSCME Local 2403.

• Transit Development Plan presentation
• Income Tax Increase discussion
• Reduce 2024 Year-End Appropriations
• AFSCME Local 2403 tentative agreement
• Waterline Replacement on Factory Street

Recreation Advisory Board

The Athens Recreation Advisory Board will meet on November 21, 2024 at 5:30 PM. The agenda includes recruiting a new board member and confirming interest of current members. It also discusses volunteers for the AMAC pocket‑park committee and interest in forming ad‑hoc committees for 2025. The meeting will feature a staff report and announcements about the next meeting.

• Recruiting a new member and confirming existing members' interest
• Volunteers to serve on the AMAC pocket‑park committee
• Interest in ad‑hoc committees for 2025
• APR staff report
• Announcement of next meeting on December 19, 2024

Planning Commission

The Athens Planning Commission will consider Case #24-07, a zone change request for the property at 0 Pomeroy Road submitted by Spire Development. The commission will also dispose of the minutes from the November 6, 2024 meeting. Reports will be heard from the Code Enforcement Director and the City Planner. The public will have an opportunity to speak on items not on the agenda before the meeting adjourns.

• Case #24-07 – Zone change request for 0 Pomeroy Road (Spire Development)
• Disposition of minutes from November 6, 2024
• Report from Code Enforcement Director
• Report from City Planner
• Public comment period for items not on agenda

Disabilities Commission

The Commission will review the City Administration's response to an accessibility letter and discuss City Council ordinance work. The body will also hold elections for its executive team and review recommendations for new members.

• Review of City Administration response to accessibility letter
• City Council Ordinance work
• Election of Executive Team
• East State St right of way discussion
• Athena Award and commemoration planning

Planning Commission

The Affordable Housing Commission will hear a presentation from developer Taylor Koch regarding potential housing applications that may require zoning changes. The commission will also vote on officers for the following year and receive updates from city departments.

• Presentation by Taylor Koch of Hill Tide Partners, LLC on affordable housing and zoning
• Vote on next year's officers
• Updates from Planning Commission, City Council, and Board of Zoning Appeals
• Reports from New Development, Neighborhood Revitalization, and Nominating committees

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission will meet to review minutes from August and September 2024. The agenda includes a discussion on a plaque ceremony under old business.

• Disposition of August 2024 and September 2024 minutes
• Discussion of Plaque Ceremony

City Council

Council is reviewing ordinances for the 2025 fiscal year appropriations, staffing levels, and non-union compensation. The body is also considering contracts for sewer system improvements and a public safety training facility.

• Ordinance 0-115-24: Appropriations for current expenses for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025
• Ordinance 0-104-24: Construction and engineering for City Sewer System Improvements, Project #330
• Ordinance 0-108-24: Design and construction of a Public Safety Training Facility, Project #373
• Ordinance 0-101-24: Amendment to sewer rates
• Ordinance 0-55-24: Rezoning lots on Grand Park Boulevard and Eden Place from R-2 to R-3

Shade Tree Commission

The Athens Shade Tree Commission will meet to review several agenda items. It will discuss Title 33 matters concerning tree permits, right‑of‑way and public land, as well as Title 37 landscape ordinance issues. The commission will also address canopy maintenance, iTree technology, and updates on tree planting, code changes, grants, and Arbor Day.

• Title 33: Tree Permit, Right of Way Issues, Public Land
• Title 37: Landscape Ordinance Issues
• Maintenance of the Tree Canopy
• New Business – iTree technology
• Old Business – Grants

Municipal Arts Commission

The Athens County Municipal Arts Commission will review and approve minutes from its September 11 and October 9 meetings. It will discuss the status of art installations at the Sculpture Park and set a new opening date. The commission will also consider a tri‑fold brochure and QR‑code audio content for the mural walk, audit art in city‑owned spaces, and receive an Arts West/APRD update.

• Approve minutes from September 11 and October 9 AMAC meetings
• Set a new and confirmed opening date for the Sculpture Park
• Review tri‑fold brochure for mural walk 1 and audio QR‑code content
• Audit art in all City of Athens‑owned spaces
• Arts West / APRD update from Katherine Ann Jordan

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold hearings to consider requests for zoning variances and a use substitution. These requests involve parking requirements, residential use in business zones, and changes to residential use types.

• Case #24-11V: Variance for 2 parking spaces instead of 3 at 46 Columbia Avenue
• Case #24-12V: Variance for first-floor residential use at 5 Pomeroy Road
• Case #24-14S: Substitution from single-family to multi-family residential at 327 East State Street
• Case #24-15V: Variance for a parking area in front of a structure at 170 East State Street
• Cases #24-16V, #24-17V, #24-18V: Variance for first-floor residential use at 0 University Estates Blvd

City Council

The Athens City Council will consider an ordinance (0-98-24) approving the Athens‑Hocking Solid Waste Management Plan. The meeting also includes discussion of an income tax increase and several committee items such as contract renewals, sign‑size regulations, transit bus disposal, and a residential water loss protection program. No other decisions are listed.

• Ordinance 0-98-24 approving the Athens‑Hocking Solid Waste Management Plan
• Income tax increase proposal
• Economic Development Council contract renewal (Finance & Personnel Committee)
• Title 23 political sign size regulations (Planning & Development Committee)
• Disposal of two transit buses (Transportation Committee)

Disabilities Commission Accessibility & Advocacy Committee

The Accessibility & Advocacy Committee will meet on November 8, 2024 in the Berry Conference Room. The agenda includes discussion of Walk Talk and Roll 2025 planning, an update from the Athens City Council, and a curb cut activity. Routine items such as call to order, establishing quorum, and approval of minutes are also on the agenda. The next meeting is set for December 13, 2024.

• Walk Talk and Roll 2025 planning discussion
• Athens City Council letter update
• Curb cut activity discussion
• Walk Talk and Roll 2025 agenda item

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to discuss three specific development applications. These include two requests for Planned Unit Developments and one request for a zone change.

• Title 41/P.U.D. application for 34 Elliott Street (Shultz)
• Title 41/P.U.D. application for Depot Street (Shultz)
• Zone Change application between Blackburn Rd and Richland Ave (Spire Development)

City Council

The Athens City Council will consider a series of ordinances, including a third‑reading ordinance to authorize contracts for the next phase of the city sewer system improvements (Project #330). Additional items include amendments to sewer rates, appropriations for the fiscal year ending December 31 2025, and authorizations for a public safety training facility and participation in a federal cooperative purchasing program. The meeting also includes a resolution supporting the tentative award of contracts for the sewer improvements and routine business such as appointing a credit‑card compliance officer.

• Ordinance 0-104-24: Authorizes the Service‑Safety Director to contract for the next phase of City Sewer System Improvements, Project #330 (emergency declaration).
• Ordinance 0-101-24: Amends City Code to update sewer rates (Section 5.04.08).
• Ordinance 0-115-24: Makes appropriations for current expenses and other expenditures for the fiscal year ending Dec 31 2025.
• Ordinance 0-108-24: Authorizes design and construction of a public safety training facility (Project #373).
• Resolution R-09-24: Supports the tentative award of contracts for construction and engineering of the City Sewer System Improvements, Project #330.

Community Relations Commission

The Athens Community Relations Commission will read a land acknowledgement and review notes from the September meeting. Members will receive updates on discrimination reporting, anti‑racism meetings and advisory board activities, and membership recruitment. The commission will also discuss plans for a community welcome event and consider ideas for events in 2025.

• Reading of land acknowledgement
• Review of September meeting notes
• Updates on discrimination reporting
• Updates on anti‑racism meetings and advisory board
• Discussion of 2025 event ideas

City Council

The Athens City Council will meet on Oct. 28, 2024. The whole council will appoint a Credit Card Compliance Officer. The Planning & Development Committee will consider a Title 1 amendment to add permit fees for accessory energy systems and roof‑mounted residential solar. The Finance & Personnel Committee will discuss the Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia agreement, a transfer to the Medical Fund, a staffing restructure, the 2025 budget, non‑union compensation and benefits, and the 2025 public defender contract.

• Title 1 amendment to add permit fees for Accessory Energy Systems and Roof‑mounted Residential Solar
• Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia (ORCA) agreement
• Appropriations for transfer to the Medical Fund
• Mayor's Staffing Levels amendment to restructure
• 2025 Budget appropriations

City Council

Athens City Council will consider amending sewer rates, disposing of unused equipment and vehicles, and updating storm water regulations. The body also plans to authorize contracts for sewer system improvements and a public safety training facility.

• Amending sewer rates (Ordinance 0-101-24)
• Disposing of equipment and vehicles (Ordinance 0-95-24)
• Updating storm water regulations (Ordinance 0-97-24)
• Authorizing sewer system construction contracts (Ordinance 0-104-24)
• Approving Athens-Hocking Solid Waste Management Plan (Ordinance 0-98-24)

Recreation Advisory Board

The board will discuss creating an ad hoc committee to develop a pocket park in front of the Community Center and will consider what committees are needed for next year's anniversary celebration. The meeting also includes routine items such as approval of minutes and staff reports.

• Creation of an ad hoc committee for the pocket park in front of the Community Center
• Discussion of committees needed for next year's anniversary planning

Disabilities Commission

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities will review a City Council letter update and receive a Pedestrian Accessibility Committee update. It will continue planning for the Athena Award and Disability Commission commemoration. Committee reports on the executive team, street accessibility, and outreach will also be presented. The meeting will end with announcements.

• City Council Letter Update
• Pedestrian Accessibility Committee Update
• Athena Award / Disability Commission Commemoration Planning
• Executive Team report – streets update
• Accessibility and Advocacy report – sidewalks and next steps

Affordable Housing Commission

The commission will meet to receive updates from city officials and various housing committees. The agenda consists of procedural items and reports on development and neighborhood revitalization.

• Updates from Planning Commission, City Council, and Board of Zoning Appeals
• Nominating Committee report
• New Development Committee report
• Neighborhood Revitalization report featuring consultant Michelle Papai
• Communication/Education Committee report

City Council

The Athens City Council will consider a range of items across its committees, including a proposed increase in sewer rates for 2025, a resolution supporting Indivisible Appalachian Ohio, and reappointments to the Board of Zoning Appeals. It will also review bids for Citywide Curb Ramps Project #366, a salt truck purchase, and amendments to Lostro Ordinances 77-24, 78-24, and 79-24. Additional agenda items cover a public safety training facility (Project #373), non‑union compensation for labor supervisors, participation in the GSA Cooperative Purchasing Program, and specific appropriations to the CDBG Formula Grant Fund, Sewer Fund, and Cable Access Fund.

• 2025 Sewer Increases
• Accept bids for Citywide Curb Ramps, Project #366
• Purchase of a salt truck
• Amend Lostro Ordinances 77-24, 78-24 & 79-24
• Appropriations: $1,500 to CDBG Formula Grant Fund; $45,000 to Sewer Fund; $25,000 to Cable Access Fund

Disabilities Commission Accessibility & Advocacy Committee

The Accessibility and Advocacy Committee is meeting to receive updates from the City Council and a guest from EPW. The group will discuss curb cut activity and the Walk Talk and Roll 2025 event.

• Curb cut activity update
• Walk Talk and Roll 2025 planning
• Athens City Council update

Municipal Arts Commission

The Athens Municipal Arts Commission will establish a quorum, review and dispose of minutes, and provide legislative updates. It will discuss public projects, other projects, and give updates from ARTSWest and the Athens Planning and Development Department. The meeting will also include announcements and other business before adjournment.

Disabilities Commission Outreach & Communications Committee

The Outreach and Communication Committee will approve the September 10, 2024 minutes. It will provide updates on the Commission’s 20th anniversary commemoration and the 10th Annual Athena Award presentation scheduled for November 6, 2024 at the Athens Community Center. The Committee announced that there will be no November or December meetings and that the next meeting will be on January 14, 2025.

• Approve September 10, 2024 meeting minutes
• Announce 20th anniversary commemoration and 10th Athena Award on Nov 6, 2024 at Athens Community Center
• Cancel November 2024 meeting
• Cancel December 2024 meeting
• Schedule next meeting for Jan 14, 2025

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a hearing regarding a conditional use permit request. The applicant seeks to allow a non-owner-occupied short-term rental in an R-1 zone.

• Case #24-10C: Conditional use permit request for 206 East State Street (Taylor Weigle)

City Council

The council will hold a public hearing on recommended amendments to the city's zoning code, including changes to bulk controls, front‑yard setbacks, and removal of ground‑story height limits for terraces, steps, or stoops. The meeting also includes a Committee of the Whole discussion on a street closure at Cool Digs on Union Street and consideration of numerous ordinances covering budget appropriations, inter‑fund transfers, labor agreements, zoning revisions, annexation, traffic and offense code updates, and other city services. A resolution will be read for the third time to accept the tax levy amounts and rates set by the Budget Commission, and several other ordinances will be read for second and first readings on topics such as equipment disposal, a solar‑array buyout, storm‑water regulation changes, and the Athens‑Hocking solid waste management plan.

• Public hearing on zoning code amendments – bulk controls, front‑yard setback, removal of ground‑story height limits (0‑88‑24)
• Committee of the Whole – street closure at Cool Digs, Union Street
• Ordinance 0‑84‑24 – amends 2024 Appropriation Ordinance 130‑23 and authorizes an inter‑fund transfer
• Ordinance 0‑86‑24 – authorizes mayor to execute employment agreement with AFSCME Local 2403 on wages and working conditions
• Resolution R‑06‑24 – accepts tax levy amounts and rates determined by the Budget Commission

Environment & Sustainability Commission

The Athens Environment and Sustainability Commission is meeting to review a draft compost resolution and website resources. The body will also discuss a plastic bag ban lawsuit and the annual sustainability progress report for the city.

• Draft Compost Resolution
• Plastic Bag Ban Lawsuit
• Annual sustainability progress report to the city
• Sustainability resources for the website

Community Relations Commission

The Athens Community Relations Commission will review updates on discrimination reporting and anti-racism initiatives, discuss bias and discrimination reports, and plan community events. The group will also discuss membership recruitment and a community welcome event.

• Review of discrimination reporting updates
• Bias/discrimination report review
• Anti-racism meetings/planning/advisory board updates
• Community welcome event planning
• Membership recruitment discussion

Recreation Advisory Board

The board is meeting to discuss the implementation of HB 47 regarding AEDs in municipal recreation spaces. Members will also review participation in local events and the creation of a committee for a new pocket park.

• Discussion of HB 47 requiring AEDs in schools and municipal rec spaces
• Creation of an ad hoc committee for a new pocket park with AMAC and APR
• Richland Avenue playground ribbon cutting scheduled for October 21st
• APR participation in Uptown Halloween and Brew Week 2025
• Planning for 25th Anniversary ideas for next year

City Council

The City Council will meet to review the Athens-Hocking Solid Waste Management Plan and city rules. The body will also consider a code correction for storm water regulations and the donation of a fire foam trailer.

• Athens-Hocking Solid Waste Management Plan
• Donation of 1998 Fire Foam Trailer to Albany VFD
• Storm Water Regulation City Code correction

Planning Commission

The commission will establish quorum, administer the oath, and approve the minutes from the July 3, 2024 meeting. It will discuss the Conestoga Hut Safe Spot site located at 510 W. Union Street and hear reports from the City Planner and the Director of Development & Code Enforcement. The agenda also provides a public comment period and announces the next meeting on October 2, 2024.

• Establish quorum and administer oath
• Approve minutes from July 3, 2024
• Discuss Conestoga Hut Safe Spot site at 510 W. Union Street
• Reports from City Planner and Director of Development & Code Enforcement
• Public comment opportunity

General

The Affordable Housing Commission will consider nominations for officer positions (with a vote scheduled for December) and will discuss creating sub‑committees covering senior housing, landlord‑tenant issues, new city ordinances, low‑income and workforce housing, communications, and new housing options. The meeting will also include brief updates on city housing projects.

• Nominations for officer positions (voting slated for December)
• Discussion of sub‑committees on senior housing, landlord‑tenant issues, and other housing topics
• Review of new legislation and ordinances related to housing
• City housing‑related updates or status of projects

General

The Athens Historic Preservation Commission will review updates on the Mansfield House, Lostro Building, and Presbyterian Church, and report on a recent meeting with the Ohio University president and a presentation to the City Council. The commission will also discuss the proposed "The Ridges" project. No formal decisions are noted on the agenda.

• Updates on Mansfield House, Lostro Building, and Presbyterian Church
• Report on meeting with Ohio University president
• Presentation to City Council
• Discussion of Paul Logue Memorial
• Discussion of "The Ridges" project

City Council

The Athens City Council will hold a public hearing on a Community Development Block Grant for lift stations on Theatre Lane and Columbus Road. Council members will consider dozens of ordinances, including flood‑damage code changes, a special right‑of‑way permit at 49 Central Avenue, and agreements with the Athens Regional Energy Special Improvement District. A resolution will be adopted to accept budget commission rates and authorize the necessary tax levies. Additional announcements will address zoning‑appeals board appointments and financial report approvals.

• Public Hearing: Community Development Block Grant – Critical Infrastructure Program (Theatre Lane and Columbus Road Lift Stations)
• Ordinance 0-48-24: Amend flood‑damage prevention code and declare an emergency
• Ordinance 0-80-24: Grant special right‑of‑way use permit at 49 Central Avenue
• Ordinance 0-86-24: Authorize mayor to execute employment agreement with AFSCME Local 2403(1) on wages and working conditions
• Resolution R-06-24: Accept budget commission amounts and rates and authorize tax levies

Disabilities Commission Accessibility & Advocacy Committee

The Athens County Disabilities Commission Accessibility & Advocacy Committee will meet to approve minutes from August 2024 and discuss the 2025 Walk Talk and Roll event planning. The group will also receive an update on City Brick Streets communication processes.

• Approval of August 2024 minutes
• Update on City Brick Streets communication
• Planning for Walk Talk and Roll 2025
• Thank you letter to City Council regarding housing project
• Next meeting scheduled for October 11, 2024

Shade Tree Commission

The Athens Shade Tree Commission will meet to approve minutes, discuss tree permits and landscape ordinance issues, and review code changes, grants, and drought response strategies.

• Approval of August 8, 2024 minutes
• Discussion of Title 33: Tree Permit and Right of Way Issues
• Review of Title 37: Landscape Ordinance Issues
• Presentation by Jen Bowman, Director of Environmental Programs
• Discussion of drought and emergency tree response

Municipal Arts Commission

The Municipal Arts Commission will meet to approve minutes and discuss public art projects, including the opening of the Sculpture Park on October 9. The group will also review the Athens Poet Laureate selection process and mural audits.

• Approval of August 8, 2024 AMAC minutes
• Sculpture Park ribbon cutting/opening on Oct. 9
• Review of Athens Poet Laurette project timeline
• Mural audit and enhancement updates
• Art Outside the Box project updates

Disabilities Commission Outreach & Communications Committee

The Athens County Disabilities Commission Outreach & Communications Committee will discuss updates from the Commission Commemoration Committee and will choose a recipient for the Athena Award. The agenda also includes routine items such as call to order, establishing quorum, approving minutes, and making announcements. No other decisions or contracts are listed.

• Commission Commemoration Committee updates
• Athena Award selection

Environment & Sustainability Commission

The Athens Environment and Sustainability Commission will discuss several old‑business items, including a draft compost resolution, website sustainability resources, and a council of governments matter. New business includes reviewing a lawsuit related to the plastic bag ban and presenting this year's sustainability progress report to the city. The meeting is scheduled for September 4, 2024 at 6:00 PM.

• Draft Compost Resolution
• Sustainability Resources for the Website
• Council of Governments
• Plastic Bag Ban Lawsuit
• This year's sustainability progress report

City Council

The Athens City Council will consider a series of ordinances and resolutions at its September 3 meeting. Key items include an emergency amendment to the Flood Damage Prevention code, the creation of an Energy Special Improvement District, and several budget and zoning measures. The council will also vote on a resolution to accept budget commission recommendations and authorize tax levies.

• Ordinance 0-48-24: emergency amendment to Athens City Code Title 25, Flood Damage Prevention
• Ordinance 0-77-24: approval of petition and articles of incorporation for Athens Regional Energy Special Improvement District
• Ordinance 0-80-24: special right‑of‑way use permit at 49 Central Avenue for patio, stairs, and parking
• Ordinance 0-84-24: amendment to 2024 Appropriation Ordinance 130-23 and authorization of an interfund transfer
• Resolution R-06-24: acceptance of budget commission amounts and rates, authorizing necessary tax levies

Community Relations Commission

The commission is meeting to review by-laws and discuss ongoing initiatives including Strong Cities and anti-racism planning. The body will also consider a Community Welcome event and other potential activities.

• By-law review
• Strong Cities work
• Discrimination reporting
• Anti-racism meetings and planning updates
• Community Welcome event

City Council

The Athens City Council will consider several items, including updates to zoning and subdivision codes, an annexation of Cable Lane, and a resolution to authorize necessary tax levies based on the Budget Commission's recommendations. The council will also vote on a $4,000 budget line transfer for mayoral travel that will be reimbursed by the NLC. Additional agenda items include updates to traffic and general offenses codes, a public safety pilot program, a buyout of a solar array at the Community Center, and an Indigenous Support resolution.

• Review of Athens City Code Title 21 Subdivisions and Title 23 Zoning (Planning Commission recommendation)
• Cable Lane annexation
• Authorization of necessary tax levies (Resolution accepting amounts and rates determined by the Budget Commission)
• $4,000 transfer from T.C. 500 capital line to T.C. 300 professional services line for mayoral travel (reimbursed by NLC)
• Buy out of the carport‑mounted solar array at the Community Center (2010 Power Purchase Agreement)

Disabilities Commission

The Commission on Disabilities is meeting to discuss accessibility and community outreach. The body will review reports from the Executive, Accessibility and Advocacy, and Outreach and Communications committees.

• Commission Commemoration and Athena Award
• University Estates report and feedback
• Uptown accessibility work
• Crosswalk discussion
• Paralympics Event on September 6

Affordable Housing Commission

The Athens Affordable Housing Commission will review grant programs for housing repair and renovation, receive updates on the Ridges Housing Project and the University Estates Woods Edge project, and consider zoning changes and ordinances. The meeting also includes election of new officers and discussion of sub‑committee ideas for the next meeting.

• Grant programs to repair/renovate housing
• Ridges Housing Project update
• University Estates Woods Edge status
• Ordinances
• Election of new officers

City Council

The Athens City Council will consider a series of ordinances, including the creation of a University Estates Incentive District with tax‑increment financing and an economic development revolving loan fund agreement. Other items include amendments to zoning for tobacco and cannabis establishments, special right‑of‑way permits, and a purchase of a new dump truck. The council will also adopt a resolution honoring the sister city of Ostroh, Ukraine, and vote on routine financial reports.

• Ordinance 0-69-24: Create University Estates Incentive District and authorize tax‑increment financing
• Ordinance 0-70-24: Authorize mayor to enter economic development revolving loan fund agreement with Ohio Development Services Agency
• Ordinance 0-65-24: Amend zoning code to permit tobacco and cannabis establishments
• Ordinance 0-64-24: Grant special right‑of‑way use permit at 810 East State Street for off‑street vehicle parking and light poles
• Ordinance 0-83-24: Amend 2024 appropriation ordinance to purchase a new dump truck

Recreation Advisory Board

The Athens Recreation Advisory Board will meet to introduce new members and discuss special interest committees. The board will also brainstorm ideas for the ACC anniversary occurring next year.

• Brainstorming for ACC anniversary
• Discussion of special interests/ad hoc committee ideas
• Review of community feedback and insights

Municipal Arts Commission

The Municipal Arts Commission will approve the minutes from its July 10 meeting and discuss updates on several public art projects. It will decide on extending Stephanie Kendrik's term as Athens Poet Laurette for the 2024 calendar year. The commission will also form an ad hoc committee to plan a ribbon‑cutting ceremony in October. Additional project updates include the city mural audit, the Art Outside the Box timeline, and other ongoing art initiatives.

• Approve minutes from the July 10, 2024 AMAC meeting
• Extend Stephanie Kendrik's service as Athens Poet Laurette (Jan 1–Dec 31, 2024)
• Form an ad hoc committee to plan the October 9 ribbon‑cutting/opening event
• Provide updates on the Athens City Mural audit and the second mural walk
• Report progress and timeline for the Art Outside the Box project

Disabilities Commission Outreach & Communications Committee

The Outreach and Communication Committee is meeting to review updates from the Commission Commemoration Committee. The body will also discuss the Commission History & Archive.

• Commission Commemoration Committee updates
• Commission History & Archive discussion

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hear a variance request for 3 Patton Street in the R-1 zone. The applicant, Cynthia Perry, seeks permission to operate a non-owner-occupied short-term rental, requiring a variance from ACC 23.04.01 (B)(6). The board will also address the disposition of the July 9, 2024 meeting minutes. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m.

• Variance request for 3 Patton Street (R-1) to allow non-owner-occupied short-term rental
• Disposition of July 9, 2024 meeting minutes

Historic Preservation Commission

The Athens Historic Preservation Commission will review updates on the Mansfield House, Lostro Building, and Presbyterian Church plaque, and discuss the Ohio Open Doors event. New business includes consideration of 19 West Washington Street, a proposed letter to Ohio University, and a tax abatement request. The commission may also plan a presentation to the City Council.

• Mansfield House
• Lostro Building
• Presbyterian Church plaque
• 19 West Washington Street
• Tax Abatement

City Council

At its August 12 meeting, the Athens City Council will consider a range of items, including a $74,500 transfer from the East State TIF Fund to the Street Fund for repaving the East State Street bikeway, and several appropriations for the General Fund. The council will also review proposals such as an Energy Special Improvement District, a proposed annexation of Cable Lane, a University Estates TIF Agreement, and a right‑of‑way permit for 49 Central Avenue. Additional agenda items cover easements for sewer improvements, flood‑damage prevention amendments, a contract with AFSCME Local 2403(1), and a resolution honoring Ukraine Independence Day.

• $74,500 transfer from East State TIF Fund to Street Fund for East State Street bikeway repaving
• Energy Special Improvement District (Lostro Ventures, LLC)
• Proposed annexation of Cable Lane
• University Estates TIF Agreement
• Easements with State of Ohio for City Sewer System Improvements (Project #330)

Disabilities Commission Accessibility & Advocacy Committee

The Accessibility & Advocacy Committee will hold its regular meeting, establish quorum and postpone approval of the minutes. A guest speaker, Tim Traxler, will talk about clay brick pavers for city streets. The committee will also discuss planning for the 2025 Walk Talk and Roll event.

• Guest speaker Tim Traxler to discuss clay brick pavers for city streets
• Walk Talk and Roll 2025 planning discussion
• Approval of minutes – tabled for now

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will review a permit application for a pollinator garden and a tree removal request at 19 Joneswood. It will also discuss Title 37 landscape ordinance issues and address drought‑related tree protection concerns. Additional items include forming committees, planning Arbor Day, and neighborhood tree planting.

• Pollinator garden permit application – 19 Joneswood (Title 33)
• Tree removal request – 19 Joneswood (Title 33)
• Landscape ordinance issues (Title 37)
• Discussion of drought impacts and tree protection
• Committee formation for Arbor Day and neighborhood tree planting

Environment & Sustainability Commission

The commission will meet to discuss a draft resolution regarding compost and sustainability resources for the city website. The body will also address the Council of Governments.

• Review of draft resolution on compost
• Sustainability resources for the website
• Council of Governments

City Council

City Council will hold a public hearing and consider an ordinance regarding permitted uses for tobacco and cannabis establishments. The body is also reviewing several right-of-way permits and funding for the Armory Solar Project.

• Public hearing and ordinance (0-65-24) regarding tobacco and cannabis establishment zoning
• Emergency ordinance (0-66-24) to execute a participation agreement in the Kroger national opioid settlement
• Right-of-way permits for 810 East State Street, 19 West Washington Street, and 85 Elmwood Place
• Four ordinances (0-73-24 through 0-76-24) regarding grants and funding for the Armory Solar Project
• Ordinance (0-69-24) regarding the University Estates Incentive District TIF agreement

Community Relations Commission

The Athens Community Relations Commission will review old business items such as the discrimination reporting process, by‑law review, and land acknowledgement resolution. New business includes a report overview, updates on anti‑racism meetings and planning, CRC priorities, communications, and membership recruitment.

• Discrimination reporting process (old business)
• By‑law review (old business)
• Land acknowledgement resolution review (old business)
• Anti‑racism meetings/planning updates (new business)
• CRC priorities (new business)

Disabilities Commission Accessibility & Advocacy Committee

The committee will conduct routine business including approving minutes and establishing a quorum. The agenda also includes a guest appearance by Ben Ziff and discussion regarding Walk Talk and Roll 2025.

• Guest: Ben Ziff
• Walk Talk and Roll 2025

Municipal Arts Commission

The commission will discuss progress on several mural projects, including the East State/33 Underpass and Parking Garage. Members will vote on a one-year extension for the Athens Poet Laureate. The agenda also includes updates regarding the new Fire Station and Sculpture Park.

• Vote on one-year extension for Athens Poet Laureate Stephanie Kendrik
• Update on East State/33 Underpass mural project
• Progress update on New Fire Station
• Selection of ad hoc committee for Fire Headquarters ribbon cutting
• Updates on Athens City Mural audit and enhancement