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

The Athens Recreation Advisory Board met on December 19, 2024, and heard updates on park projects and 2025 plans. No formal votes were taken; the board approved the agenda and previous minutes. Key updates included a pro bono site design for Sells Park, a 2025 budget ordinance already approved by council, and plans for new restrooms at West State Street Park.

• Approved agenda with addition (motion by Annie, second by Emily)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion by Emily, second by Stuart)

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

The Athens City Planning Commission approved two zone change requests to R-3 for workforce housing developments: Case #24-07 at 0 Pomeroy Road (3-1) and Case #24-10 at 111 Hooper Street (4-0). Both will proceed to City Council for review. The commission also heard a presentation on Ohio University's Translational Research Center and discussed proposed changes to Athens City Code Chapter 23.09 to increase public involvement.

• Approved Case #24-07, rezoning parcels at 0 Pomeroy Road to R-3 (3-1)
• Approved Case #24-10, rezoning eight parcels at 111 Hooper Street to R-3 (4-0)
• Approved December 4, 2024 minutes (4-0)
• Adjusted agenda to hear communication item from Jon Cozad after minutes (4-0)

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

The Athens County Affordable Housing Commission met on December 17, 2024, and approved the previous meeting's minutes. The meeting was primarily informational, with updates on the Spire Pomeroy Road LIHTC project (kicked back to planning commission due to filing error), the Hooper Street LIHTC case (first hearing on 12/18), a new corridor overlay zone with Stimson Avenue as pilot, and the Ridges condo development (controlling board review in March/April). No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 12:49 PM

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.

The Board of Zoning Appeals granted all seven variance requests on the agenda, covering parking reductions, residential use in commercial zones, and a use substitution. Three variances for parcels on University Estates Blvd were granted with the condition that the applicant apply for residential rezoning within 30 days. The board also approved the October 8th meeting minutes and heard a public apology from the Chairperson.

• Granted parking variance at 46 Columbia Ave (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Granted first-floor residential variance at 5 Pomeroy Rd (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Granted nonconforming use substitution at 327 E State St (5-0)
• Granted front-yard parking variance at 170 E State St (5-0)
• Granted variance at 0 University Estates Blvd parcel A027400009704 with 30-day rezoning condition (5-0)
• Granted variance at 0 University Estates Blvd parcel A027400009703 with 30-day rezoning condition (5-0)
• Granted variance at 0 University Estates Blvd parcel A027400009702 with 30-day rezoning condition (5-0)
• Approved October 8, 2024 meeting minutes

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

The Planning Commission held a regular meeting on December 4, 2024, where they approved the minutes from their previous session. No cases were presented for action, though the commission discussed a proposed zoning change request for 111 Hooper Street and received an update regarding a future performing arts center project.

• Approved November 20, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0, 1 abstention)

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

The Athens City Planning Commission voted 4-0 to recommend approval of a zoning change request from R-1 to R-3 for an 8.273-acre parcel at 0 Pomeroy Road, submitted by Spire Development. The recommendation includes a suggestion to City Council to also rezone the parcel to the immediate west to B-1. The request will now go to City Council for final review and approval.

• Approved minutes of November 6, 2024 (4-0)
• Recommended approval of zone change from R-1 to R-3 for 8.273 acres at 0 Pomeroy Road (4-0)
• Added suggestion to City Council to rezone the parcel to the immediate west to B-1

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

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities reviewed the city administration's response to a letter regarding accessibility, noting $1.09 million allocated for curb cuts and ongoing efforts to bid on Uptown projects. The commission approved the October minutes and the treasurer's report, which projected a 2024 balance of $202.94. Members voted unanimously to keep the current executive team unchanged and agreed to improve communication tracking with the mayor's designee.

• October minutes approved unanimously
• Treasurer's report approved unanimously
• Executive team membership confirmed unchanged
• Meeting adjourned unanimously

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

The Athens City Affordable Housing Commission heard a presentation from developer Taylor Koch about a proposed 50-80 unit affordable housing development off Hooper Street, which would require annexation and rezoning. The commission approved the October meeting minutes and elected officers for 2025. No formal votes were taken on the housing proposal itself, which remains in early discussion stages.

• Approved October meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved 2025 officer slate: Chair Solveig Spjeldnes, Vice Chair Polly Sumney, Secretary Mollie Fitzgerald (all in favor)
• Heard update on $2M Welcome Home Ohio grant for 8 affordable housing units
• Discussed Hooper Street development proposal requiring annexation and rezoning (no action taken)

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

The Athens County Historic Preservation Commission met on November 18, 2024, and approved the minutes from the September 16 meeting. The commission discussed updates on the Lostro Building, Presbyterian Church, Mansfield House, and other old business items, but took no substantive action on these topics. The meeting was adjourned at 6:05 p.m.

• Approved September 16 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:05 p.m. (unanimous)

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

At its regular session on November 18, 2024, Athens City Council unanimously approved several ordinances, including amending sewer rates, the 2024 appropriation, sewer system improvements, participation in a GSA cooperative purchasing program, and design of a public safety training facility. Council also approved an amendment to reduce the General Fund reserve balance from 9% to 8% for the ORCA agreement (6-1), and removed and adopted a rezoning ordinance for Grand Park Boulevard and Eden Place. No other substantive decisions were made beyond these approvals.

• Approved sewer rate fee amendment (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 appropriation amendment (unanimous)
• Approved sewer system improvements contract (unanimous)
• Approved GSA cooperative purchasing participation (unanimous)
• Approved public safety training facility design (unanimous)
• Approved ORCA financial support with reserve balance amendment (6-1)
• Removed and adopted rezoning on Grand Park Blvd and Eden Place (unanimous)
• Approved rules amendment (unanimous)

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

The Shade Tree Commission approved changing its meeting time to 6pm and accepted the September minutes. They discussed tree planting, watering systems, and code changes, but no major policy decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from September 12, 2024 meeting
• Approved changing meeting time to 6pm (motion by Joanna Sokol, seconded by Gene Deubler)

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

The Athens Municipal Arts Commission approved minutes from September and October meetings. Members discussed delays in the sculpture park installation, with a contractor expected to complete work soon. No formal votes were taken on new projects; the commission tabled the mural audit until next meeting and planned an ad hoc committee for a 20th anniversary sculpture.

• Approved minutes from September 11 and October 9 meetings (motion by Tina, second by Jeff)
• Tabled mural audit discussion until next meeting due to absence of committee members
• Planned ad hoc committee for 20th Anniversary Sculpture, with Kate and Devin volunteering
• Set sculpture submission deadline for March 1, with RFP going out in December
• Approved $9,000 stipend for the 20th Anniversary Sculpture artist
• Adjourned meeting at 6:23 pm (motion by Kate, second by Jeff)

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

The Board of Zoning Appeals denied a conditional use permit for a non-owner-occupied short-term rental at 206 E State St in an R-1 zone. The motion to grant with conditions (video monitoring, sound sensing, re-application on sale) failed 1-4. The board also approved minutes from August 13, 2024.

• Denied conditional use permit for short-term rental at 206 E State St (1-4)
• Approved minutes from August 13, 2024 (3-0)

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)

The City Council discussed a proposed 0.3% income tax increase (from 1.95% to 2.25%) for general revenue, with a goal of placing it on the May 2025 primary ballot. No formal vote was taken; the Council will revisit the issue. The Council also discussed selling Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) and heard a presentation on the Economic Development Council contract renewal, but no decisions were made on these items. The only formal action was unanimous approval of the Athens-Hocking Solid Waste Management Plan.

• Approved Athens-Hocking Solid Waste Management Plan (unanimous)
• Discussed 0.3% income tax increase for May 2025 ballot (no vote)
• Discussed selling SRECs for $86,000-$92,000/year (no vote)
• Discussed EDC 3-year contract renewal (no vote)

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

The Accessibility and Advocacy Committee discussed preliminary planning for the 2025 Walk Talk and Roll event, including goals, target audience, and station concepts. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was primarily a discussion and update session. The committee also received an update on a letter to Athens City Council regarding matching grants.

• Approved previous meeting minutes with attendance correction (unanimous)
• Discussed planning for Walk Talk and Roll 2025 event
• Received update on Athens City Council letter from Andy Stone

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)

The Athens City Planning Commission held a regular meeting on November 6, 2024, but took no substantive votes on any cases. The commission discussed three pending applications: a Title 41 P.U.D. for 34 Elliott Street, a Title 41 P.U.D. for 52 Depot Street, and a zone change request for 0 Pomeroy Road. All items were in early stages and will require further review, including site plans and public posting, before being scheduled as formal cases. The commission also heard updates on new bulk controls, a $2M affordable housing grant, and an overlay zone for Stimson Avenue.

• Approved September 18, 2024 minutes (3-0, two abstentions)
• No action taken on Title 41 P.U.D. for 34 Elliott Street; awaiting site plan and public posting
• No action taken on Title 41 P.U.D. for 52 Depot Street; awaiting site plan and utility review
• No action taken on zone change for 0 Pomeroy Road; discussion only

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.

The Athens City Council approved four ordinances during its November 4, 2024, meeting, including the disposal of municipal equipment and a buyout agreement for a solar array at the community center. Council also updated storm water regulations and approved the city's solid waste management plan. Additionally, members appointed a new Credit Card Compliance Officer.

• Approved disposal of unneeded municipal equipment and vehicles (unanimous)
• Approved solar array buyout agreement for the community center (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to storm water regulations (unanimous)
• Approved the solid waste management plan (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for sewer system improvements contract (unanimous)
• Appointed Jason Schroer as Credit Card Compliance Officer (unanimous)

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

The commission approved the September meeting notes and discussed potential 2025 priorities and events. No bias or discrimination reports were reviewed. Discussions regarding bylaw changes for reporting processes were deferred to the December meeting.

• Approved September meeting notes (unanimous)

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

The City Council committees met to discuss several items for upcoming agendas, including a new ORCA membership fee structure, 2025 budget appropriations, staffing changes, and new solar permit fees. No final votes were taken; all items are slated for future council action.

• Discussed appointing Jason Schroer as Credit Card Compliance Officer (voluntary, non-City role)
• Discussed new ORCA membership fee of $1 per resident, reducing payment from $90,000 to $24,673 for 2024
• Discussed repealing prior ORCA agreements (0-110-19, 0-45-24) and entering new agreement
• Discussed appropriations transfers to Medical Fund to cover expenses
• Discussed removing Receptionist position and adding Executive Assistant (Mayor) in pay grade 3
• Discussed 2025 budget appropriations, including Fire and Code Enforcement increases
• Discussed 2025 non-union compensation and benefits changes
• Discussed 2025 Public Defender contract, appropriating $120,000 for full year

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)

The Athens City Council unanimously adopted several ordinances, including amendments to the 2024 appropriation, a salt truck purchase for the Street Department, and measures related to the Athens Regional Energy Special Improvement District. A resolution supporting the 'Citizens Not Politicians' ballot issue was adopted with one abstention. The Council confirmed the reappointment of Ben Lachman to the Board of Zoning Appeals, while public comment addressed concerns regarding another appointee, Joe Krause, and local homelessness.

• Approved Ordinance 0-94-24 amending 2024 appropriation (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 0-102-24 increasing non-union supervisor compensation (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 0-106-24 purchasing salt truck for Street Dept (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 0-107-24 for citywide curb ramps project #366 (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinances 0-109-24, 0-110-24, and 0-111-24 for Athens Regional Energy SID (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution R-08-24 supporting Issue 1 ballot amendment (6-0-1)
• Confirmed reappointment of Ben Lachman to Board of Zoning Appeals (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 7, 2024 session (unanimous)

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

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities heard a positive update on downtown curb cuts and sidewalk improvements, and discussed next steps for a federal grant application. The commission approved the treasurer's report and minutes, and continued planning for the Athena Award commemoration. No formal votes were taken on policy changes.

• Approved September 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved treasurer's report showing $2,035.94 balance (unanimous)
• Heard update: city ground down 90% of problematic curb cuts downtown
• Discussed federal grant application; response expected by November 1
• Continued planning for Athena Award event, including food increase and sponsorships

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

The Committee of the Whole discussed a proposed 3% sewer rate increase for 2025, a resolution supporting the Citizens Not Politicians (Issue 1) amendment, and the reappointment of Ben Lachman and Joe Krause to the Board of Zoning Appeals. No formal votes were taken; items were forwarded to upcoming City Council agendas. The Mayor stated he will no longer request Council confirmation for reappointments, citing the City Code's silence on the matter.

• Discussed 2025 sewer rate increase of 3% (no vote)
• Discussed resolution supporting Issue 1 (no vote)
• Discussed reappointments to Board of Zoning Appeals (no vote)
• Mayor announced he will no longer request Council confirmation for reappointments
• Forwarded sewer increase and Issue 1 resolution to upcoming City Council agenda

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

The Accessibility and Advocacy Committee tabled approval of its previous minutes until the next meeting. Members discussed a proposed city ordinance to create a matching grants fund for sidewalk improvements, aiming for a first reading at the November 12 city council meeting, with a draft deadline of November 6. No formal decisions were made on the ordinance or other agenda items.

• Tabled approval of previous meeting minutes until next meeting
• Discussed drafting a matching grants ordinance for sidewalk improvements (no vote)
• Set November 6 deadline for ordinance draft feedback
• Scheduled next committee meeting for November 8, 2024

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.

The Athens Municipal Arts Commission (AMAC) postponed approval of September minutes to its Nov. 13 meeting and discussed budget requests due Oct. 11 for 2025, including potential funding for a mural brochure, conferences, and another Rt. 33 underpass mural. The Sculpture Park opening was delayed due to structural engineer approval for footers and behind-schedule asphalt/concrete work. AMAC also reviewed accessibility feedback on the Mural Walk brochure and agreed to form an ad hoc committee to draft an RFP for an outdoor sculpture at the Athens Community Center.

• Postponed approval of Sept. 11 minutes to Nov. 13 meeting
• Discussed 2025 budget requests due Oct. 11, including mural brochure and conference funding
• Noted Sculpture Park opening delayed due to structural engineer approval and asphalt/concrete delays
• Reviewed Disabilities Commission feedback on Mural Walk brochure accessibility
• Agreed to form ad hoc committee of 2 AMAC, 2 RAB commissioners, and 1 community member for sculpture RFP
• Adjourned at 6:26 PM

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

The Outreach and Communication Committee approved the September 10, 2024 minutes unanimously. Members discussed updates and next steps for the commission's 20th-anniversary commemoration and 10th Annual Athena Award presentation, scheduled for November 6, 2024. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and planning-focused.

• Approved September 10, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled 20th-anniversary commemoration and Athena Award for Nov 6, 2024
• Cancelled November and December 2024 meetings
• Set next meeting for January 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)

The Board of Zoning Appeals denied a request for a variance to allow a non-owner-occupied short-term rental in an R-1 residential zone at 3 Patton Street. The board voted 4-1 against the motion after determining the request did not meet all necessary findings of fact. The board also approved the minutes from their July 9, 2024, meeting.

• Denied variance for non-owner-occupied short-term rental at 3 Patton St (1-4)
• Approved July 9, 2024, meeting minutes (5-0)

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

At its October 7, 2024 regular session, Athens City Council unanimously approved all ordinances on third reading, including a subdivision regulation amendment reducing the minimum lot size from 8,000 to 4,000 square feet to encourage housing development. Council also approved an annexation agreement for property east of Cable Lane, a solar array buyout agreement for the Community Center, and several other code amendments. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved subdivision regulation amendment reducing minimum lot size from 8,000 to 4,000 sq ft (unanimous)
• Approved annexation agreement with Athens Township for property east of Cable Lane (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance authorizing solar array buyout agreement for Community Center (unanimous)
• Approved AFSCME Local 2403(1) wage and working conditions agreement (unanimous)
• Approved zoning amendments to yard regulations and fences (unanimous)
• Approved traffic code amendments (unanimous)
• Approved general offenses code amendments (unanimous)
• Approved DORA hours of operation amendment (unanimous)

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

The Athens City Planning Commission held an informational discussion on a proposed Conestoga Hut safe spot at 510 W. Union St., but took no vote because the site is owned by Athens County and is exempt from city zoning. The city will issue a zoning certificate for the project, which plans four huts, a fence, and a porta potty, with operations starting in November. No other cases were on the agenda.

• Approved July 3, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
• No vote on Conestoga Hut safe spot; county exempt from zoning, city to issue certificate

Disabilities Commission

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities reviews minutes, hears a treasurer’s report, and discusses city council updates, adaptive sports support, and pedestrian accessibility. Members also plan the Athena Award commemoration and receive committee reports on art walk brochures and brick street accessibility.

• Letter of Support for SOCIL adaptive sports
• Pedestrian Accessibility Committee Update
• Athena Award / Disability Commission Commemoration Planning
• Proposed art walk brochure for city council prep
• Brick streets accessibility review

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities approved the July minutes and treasurer's report, and discussed plans for its November commemoration event and Athena Award. Members also reviewed the University Estates housing project, noting concerns about accessibility and the removal of a requirement for a letter from the commission. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved July minutes (8-0-0)
• Approved treasurer's report (8-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (8-0-0)

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

The Commission approved the minutes from their August 12 meeting. Members discussed ongoing historic preservation projects, including the Lostro Building, the Mansfield House, and the Presbyterian Church, and reviewed potential memorial plans for Paul Logue.

• Approved August 12 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:50 p.m. (unanimous)

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

At its September 16, 2024 regular session, Athens City Council unanimously approved several ordinances, including an update to the flood damage prevention code (0-48-24) and a series of measures (0-77-24 through 0-81-24) to establish and fund the Athens Regional Energy Special Improvement District, grant a special use permit at 49 Central Avenue, and execute sewer easements. Council also approved appointments, financial reports, and tabled two Board of Zoning Appeals reappointments. Public comments raised concerns about ADA accessibility and homelessness, but no decisions were made on those topics.

• Approved flood damage prevention code update (0-48-24) unanimously
• Approved Athens Regional Energy Special Improvement District ordinances (0-77-24, 0-78-24, 0-79-24) unanimously
• Approved special use permit at 49 Central Avenue (0-80-24) unanimously
• Approved sewer easement ordinance (0-81-24) unanimously
• Approved appointment of Shay Myers to Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously
• Tabled reappointments of Ben Lachman and Joe Krause to Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously
• Approved August 2024 Financial Reports unanimously
• Approved July 2024 Credit Card Transactions unanimously

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

The Shade Tree Commission approved minutes from August 8, 2024, and discussed a request to fund tree planting along the Hocking River to match a $700 Ohio EPA grant. The commission also discussed code changes to ease the pollinator front yard program and an emergency tree maintenance program due to drought. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved minutes from August 8, 2024 meeting
• Discussed funding $700 for Hocking River tree planting (no vote)
• Discussed code changes for pollinator program (no vote)
• Discussed emergency tree maintenance program (no vote)

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

The Athens Municipal Arts Commission met and discussed several public art projects, including the Fire Headquarters/Sculpture Park, with a ribbon cutting ceremony planned for October 9, 2024, replacing the October meeting. The commission also reviewed updates on the Athens Poet Laureate, mural audit, Art Outside the Box, and other projects. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was procedural and adjourned with a motion.

• Scheduled ribbon cutting for Fire Headquarters/Sculpture Park on Oct. 9 (replaces Oct. meeting)
• Held next steps for sculpture park ad-hoc meeting until next AMAC meeting
• Tina to form ad-hoc committee for Poet Laureate; next steps deferred to next meeting
• David to send mural brochure draft to Andrew and Athens City Disability Commission for ADA specs
• Katherine Ann to ask city about budget for designer for paper mural brochure
• Adjourned meeting (motion by David, second by Holly, passed)

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

The Outreach and Communication Committee approved the July 9, 2024 meeting minutes unanimously. Members discussed the Athena Award, including a contingency plan if fewer than four nominees are received, and confirmed that commission members may nominate and write support letters, but committee members cannot due to their role on the selection committee. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved July 9, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed Athena Award contingency plan if fewer than 4 nominees
• Confirmed commission members can nominate for Athena Award; committee members cannot

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

Athens City Council voted unanimously to appeal a Common Pleas Court decision that struck down the city's ban on single-use plastic bags. The council also approved an amendment to the 2024 appropriation ordinance and adopted a resolution affirming respect for Indigenous history. Several ordinances were introduced for first or second reading, including zoning changes and a DORA hours extension.

• Appealed court ruling against single-use plastic bag ban (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to 2024 appropriation ordinance (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution affirming respect for Indigenous history (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 5, 2024 regular session
• Received notice of Sandstone Family Apartments II development proposal
• Discussed pilot Controlled Deer Archery Program concerns
• Introduced ordinances for first reading (AFSCME agreement, subdivision, zoning, annexation)
• Introduced ordinances for second reading (flood damage, energy SID, traffic code, DORA)

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

The Athens Community Relations Commission met on August 29, 2024, and approved the July meeting notes. The by-law review was moved to the September meeting. The commission discussed anti-racism programming for Athens Middle and High Schools, including a new class at the high school, and considered financial support for it. The Community Welcome event was rescheduled from October 3 due to a conflict with Rosh Hashanah.

• Approved July meeting notes (motion by Natalie Johnson, seconded by Rachel Siegel)
• Moved by-law review to September meeting
• Rescheduled Community Welcome event from October 3 due to Rosh Hashanah conflict

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)

The Athens City Council held a Committee of the Whole meeting on August 26, 2024, discussing several items but taking no formal votes. They reviewed updates to the City Code for Title 7 (Traffic) and Title 13 (General Offenses) to align with the Ohio Revised Code, discussed a proposed DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) pilot program for special weekends, and considered purchasing the carport-mounted solar array at the Community Center for $235,000. The Finance & Personnel Committee also discussed a resolution accepting 2025 tax rates and a $4,000 appropriation transfer for mayoral travel. No final decisions were made; items were slated for upcoming agendas.

• Discussed City Code updates for Title 7 and Title 13 to align with Ohio Revised Code
• Discussed DORA pilot program for special weekends (Homecoming, Moms Weekend) - no action
• Discussed purchasing solar array at Community Center for $235,000 - no action
• Discussed Indigenous support resolution - no action
• Finance Committee discussed 2025 tax rate resolution (Athens Township 2.60 mills, Canaan Township 2.40 mills, total $1,214,698)
• Finance Committee discussed $4,000 appropriation transfer for mayoral travel (reimbursed by NLC)

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

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities approved the July minutes and treasurer's report, both unanimously. New business included planning for the Commission Commemoration and Athena Award event on November 6, with speaker Jennifer Kucera, catering by Mauvette's, and pianist Otis Cochran. The commission discussed the University Estates housing project, noting it lacked one-level options and did not meet the holistic needs of people with disabilities, and raised concerns about future projects like the Ridges development and 682 roundabout. No formal action was taken on these housing discussions.

• Approved July minutes (8-0)
• Approved treasurer's report (8-0)
• Adjourned meeting (8-0)
• Scheduled Commemoration and Athena Award event for November 6 at Community Center
• Confirmed Jennifer Kucera as event speaker
• Confirmed Otis Cochran as pianist
• Set sponsorship levels: blue $50, green $100, silver $250
• Discussed University Estates housing project accessibility concerns

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

The Affordable Housing Commission heard presentations on housing repair programs and received updates on local housing projects. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters; the only action was approving the previous meeting's minutes. The Ridges project awaits state approval, and the University Estates Woods Edge TIF ordinance was passed by the city and county.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Heard update: Ridges project awaits State Controlling Board approval
• Heard update: University Estates Woods Edge TIF ordinance passed by City and County
• Heard update: City applied for $3.5M Welcome Home Ohio grant for 14 affordable units

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

Council approved a zoning amendment adding a 500-foot distance requirement for tobacco, vaping, and cannabis establishments, and adopted it unanimously after suspending rules. A special use permit for parking at 810 East State Street was tabled until light pollution is addressed. Several other ordinances were adopted, including affordable housing commission changes, a vehicle disposal, a tax increment financing agreement, and a dump truck purchase.

• Adopted zoning amendment for tobacco/cannabis establishments with 500-foot restriction (unanimous)
• Tabled special use permit at 810 East State Street for parking and light poles (6-1)
• Adopted ordinance amending Affordable Housing Commission (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance authorizing disposal of a vehicle (unanimous)
• Adopted amended TIF agreement for University Estates Incentive District (unanimous)
• Adopted economic development revolving loan fund agreement with Ohio Development Services Agency (unanimous)
• Adopted special use permit at 85 Elmwood Place for fence and pool house (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance authorizing Issue I funds application (unanimous)

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

The Athens Recreation Advisory Board met on August 15, 2024, and approved the agenda and previous minutes. The board discussed plans for the 25th anniversary of the Community Center and 20th of Arts West, including fundraising ideas like naming rights, engraved bricks, and a 5K race, but no formal decisions were made. Staff reported the outdoor fitness court is open and skate park repairs are scheduled for September.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Discussed 25th anniversary fundraising, no formal action taken

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

The Athens Municipal Arts Commission met and discussed several public art projects. They scheduled the Fire Headquarters/Sculpture Park ribbon cutting for October 9, replacing the October meeting, and will propose names at the next meeting. They also reviewed mural updates, the Poet Laureate selection process, and other ongoing projects. No formal votes were taken; the only motion was to adjourn.

• Scheduled October 9 ribbon cutting for Fire Headquarters/Sculpture Park (replaces October AMAC meeting)
• Deferred sculpture park naming proposals to next meeting
• Tabled next steps for ad-hoc meeting on sculpture park until next AMAC meeting
• Approved adjournment motion (moved by David, seconded by Holly)

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

The Outreach and Communication Committee approved the July 9, 2024 minutes unanimously. Members discussed the Athena Award, including a contingency plan if fewer than four nominees are received, and confirmed that commission members may nominate and write support letters, but committee members cannot due to their role on the selection committee. Updates were shared on the Commission Commemoration Celebration and the Commission History & Archive project. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved July 9, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed Athena Award contingency if fewer than 4 nominees
• Confirmed commission members may nominate for Athena Award; committee members cannot
• Received updates on Commemoration Celebration and Athena Award plan
• Received update on Commission History & Archive project

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

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved all three variance requests on the agenda. The first allowed a church at 32 W Carpenter to expand with an elevator and accessible restrooms despite setbacks and lot coverage limits. The second allowed a garage relocation at 19 Elmwood Pl with a reduced setback. The third, for 4 Dalton Ave, allowed two principal structures and front parking, with restrictions on accessory structures.

• Granted variance for 32 W Carpenter (ADA expansion) allowing 0 ft rear setback, 88% lot coverage, 90% total lot coverage (5-0)
• Granted variance for 19 Elmwood Pl allowing 2 ft setback where 5 ft required (5-0)
• Granted variance for 4 Dalton Ave allowing two principal structures and front parking, with no commercial/residential use of accessory structures (3-1, Isherwood recused)
• Approved minutes from June 11, 2024 meeting

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

The Historic Preservation Commission approved a fabric awning installation at 19 W. Washington Street, with all members in favor. They also approved the July meeting minutes. Other items were discussed but not formally decided, including updates on the Mansfield House, Lostro Building, and a proposed letter to Ohio University.

• Approved fabric awning at 19 W. Washington Street (unanimous)
• Approved July 8 meeting minutes (unanimous)

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)

The City & Safety Services, Finance & Personnel, Planning & Development, and Transportation committees met on August 12 and 26, 2024, to discuss and prepare items for full Council action. Key items include accepting two easements from the State of Ohio for sewer improvements, purchasing a solar array at the Community Center for $235,000, creating an Energy Special Improvement District for PACE financing at 63 Court Street, and submitting an application for OPWC Issue I funds for a roundabout project. No final votes were taken in these committee meetings; all items are scheduled for upcoming Council agendas.

• Recommended accepting two easements from State of Ohio for sewer project #330
• Discussed purchasing solar array at Community Center for $235,000
• Discussed creating Energy Special Improvement District for PACE financing at 63 Court Street
• Discussed annexation of 30 acres on Cable Lane with utility easement requirement
• Discussed amendments to University Estates TIF agreement
• Discussed appropriations totaling $115,230 and a $74,500 transfer for bikeway repaving
• Discussed applying for OPWC Issue I funds for 682/56 roundabout
• Discussed increasing dump truck expenditure from $170,000 to $176,000

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

The Accessibility and Advocacy Committee discussed the use of bricks versus stamped concrete for walkways, with a guest advocating for bricks to preserve Athens' aesthetic. The committee tabled approval of the previous meeting's minutes and planning for Walk, Talk, and Roll 2025. They also discussed sending a thank-you letter to Andy and City Council for including them in the University Estates housing project review.

• Tabled approval of previous meeting minutes
• Tabled Walk, Talk, and Roll 2025 planning
• Discussed sending thank-you letter to Andy and City Council for including Commission in University Estates review

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

The Shade Tree Commission approved a tree permit for 19 Joneswood and denied a removal request at 80 Court St. following a safety director's recommendation. Members discussed drought impacts on the tree canopy, noting that many recently planted trees are struggling due to lack of watering. The commission also outlined plans for new committees focused on public information, legislation, and mapping street trees.

• Approved tree permit for 19 Joneswood
• Denied tree removal request at 80 Court St.
• Approved June 13, 2024 minutes
• Adjourned meeting

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

Athens City Council approved several ordinances, including the 2024 appropriation amendment, an emergency ordinance for the national opioid settlement with Kroger, and multiple special use permits. The Council also approved funding for the Armory solar project and confirmed a Shade Tree Commission appointment. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 2024 appropriation ordinance amendment (unanimous)
• Approved emergency ordinance for Kroger opioid settlement (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit at 19 West Washington Street for awning (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit at 85 Elmwood Place for fence/pool house (unanimous)
• Approved SOPEC community grant for Armory solar project (unanimous)
• Approved carbon fee expenditure for Armory solar project (unanimous)
• Approved public pricing program carbon fee expenditure for Armory solar project (unanimous)
• Approved interfund transfer to ACIC for Armory solar project (unanimous)

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)

The Athens Community Relations Commission adopted the May meeting notes and discussed updates on the discrimination reporting process, including a July 11 report involving Athens Transit drivers. The commission also reviewed by-law and land acknowledgement resolutions, with the latter to be brought back to city council. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy changes; the meeting focused on planning and priorities.

• Adopted May meeting notes (motion by John, seconded by Natalie)
• Reviewed 2023 & 2024 discrimination reports
• Agreed to add language to complaint form about anonymous reporting and public record status
• Agreed to allot time at every meeting to review discrimination reports and include summaries in minutes
• Agreed to send email to law director and mayor about updating city code to reflect DEIA coordinator role
• Discussed compensated advisory committee of people of color (proposal to be submitted)
• Identified priorities including unhoused population work and school engagement
• Noted two membership vacancies and need for more diverse recruitment

Recreation Advisory Board

The Athens Recreation Advisory Board will hold a routine meeting to approve minutes from February and May 2024, introduce new and returning members, and discuss a proposed Sensory Friendly Sunday Swims program. The board will also hear a staff report and take community feedback.

• Approval of February and May 2024 meeting minutes
• Introduction of new and returning board members
• Discussion of Sensory Friendly Sunday Swims program

The Athens Recreation Advisory Board met on July 18, 2024, and approved the agenda and previous minutes. No formal votes were taken on new policies; the meeting focused on updates and discussions, including pool accessibility challenges, new programs like Sensory Friendly Swim and Tot Time, and project updates such as the Richland Ave Playground grant and tennis court signs.

• Approved agenda with additions (unanimous)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed pool access challenges for people with disabilities
• Reported positive feedback on Sensory Friendly Swim and Tot Time programs
• Noted tennis and pickleball court signs installed
• Reported $20,000 OPRA Foundation grant for Richland Ave Playground
• Scheduled next meeting for August 15, 2024

Disabilities Commission

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities will meet to review the TIF University Estates building plan and receive an update on the sensory friendly pool. The body will also plan for the Athena Award.

• TIF University Estates Building Plan
• Sensory Friendly Pool update
• Athena Award planning
• Accessibility and Advocacy report regarding WTR work and HAPCAP Mobility Manager

The Commission discussed a proposal for University Estates consisting of approximately 46 units of duplexes and triplexes. Members discussed providing a list of concerns to developers and were asked to write a letter regarding their endorsement of the project.

• Approved June meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's report (Unanimous)

Affordable Housing Commission

The Athens Affordable Housing Commission will meet to discuss updates on city planning and zoning changes. The agenda includes presentations from SPIRE Development and reviews of specific housing projects.

• Presentation by SPIRE Development
• Ridges Housing Project update
• Review of University Estates Woodsedge plan

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

The Accessibility and Advocacy Committee of the Athens County Disabilities Commission met on June 14, 2024, but quorum was not met, so no formal business transpired. Approval of the May minutes was tabled until the next meeting. The rest of the meeting was general discussion about pedestrian safety, bus stop accessibility, and the West Union/682 Corridor and Kershaw Green projects, with no votes or binding actions recorded.

• Quorum not met; no formal business conducted
• Approval of May minutes tabled until next meeting
• No votes or formal actions recorded on West Union, 682 Corridor, or Kershaw Green project updates

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

The commission approved a one-year extension for the Athens Poet Laureate and planned a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park in October.

• Approved June 12, 2024 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved one-year extension for Stephanie Kendrik as Athens Poet Laureate through Dec 31, 2025 (Unanimous)
• Scheduled Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park ribbon cutting for October 9, 2024

Disabilities Commission Outreach & Communications Committee

The Outreach and Communication Committee will receive updates and review tasks related to the Commission Commemoration Committee. The agenda is limited to these items.

• Updates regarding the Commission Commemoration Committee
• Review of 'To Dos' for the Commission Commemoration Committee

The committee approved the June 11, 2024 meeting minutes. Members discussed a one-month trial for sensory-friendly pool hours from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Sundays in July.

• Approved June 11, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold hearings on three cases involving setbacks, lot coverage, and structure placement. The board will also review the minutes from the June 11, 2024, meeting.

• Case #24-06V: Request for rear setback and lot coverage variances at 32 W Carpenter
• Case #24-07V: Request for a 2 ft setback variance at 19 Elmwood Pl
• Case #24-08V: Request for parking and multiple structure variances at 4 Dalton Ave
• Disposition of minutes from June 11, 2024

Historic Preservation Commission

The Commission will review June 2024 minutes and a final plaque draft for the Presbyterian Church. Members will also discuss involvement in historic or sensitive investment projects and the possibility of minor tax abatements.

• Review final plaque draft for Presbyterian Church
• Discussion on involvement with historic/sensitive investment projects
• Discussion regarding potential minor tax abatements
• Ohio History Connection's Ohio Open Doors Event

The Commission discussed creating a tax abatement program to incentivize better design for historic buildings. Members also reviewed potential language for the Joanne Prisley Award plaque and discussed hosting an Ohio Open Doors event.

• Approved June 17 meeting minutes
• Agreed to keep the name 'Joanne Prisley Award' for the church plaque
• Tabled approval of plaque language pending a quote from Erie Landmark Company

Planning Commission

The Athens Planning Commission will consider an appeal regarding a denied lot split at 0 Lavelle Road. The meeting also includes reports from David Riggs and Meghan Jennings.

• Appeal of lot split denial (Case #24-06) at 0 Lavelle Road
• Disposition of June 25, 2024, minutes

The Planning Commission approved a variance to treat a lot split at 0 Lavelle Road as a minor subdivision rather than a major subdivision. This recommendation will now move to City Council for review.

• Approved June 25, 2024 minutes (5-0)
• Approved lot split variance for 0 Lavelle Road to allow minor subdivision provision (4-1)

Environment & Sustainability Commission

The Athens Environment and Sustainability Commission will review the June 2024 minutes and continue discussions on shade trees and pollinators. The meeting also includes updates regarding sustainability website resources and the Council of Governments.

• Review of June 2024 minutes
• Discussion on shade trees
• Discussion on pollinators
• Sustainability website resources
• Council of Governments discussion

General

The commission will review an appeal regarding a lot split denial at 0 Lavelle Road. The meeting also includes presentations on zoning overlays and the Ohio University Phase 2 Housing Project.

• Appeal of lotsplit denial at 0 Lavelle Road
• Presentation on Ohio University Ph2 Housing Project
• Presentation on Zoning Overlays

The Athens City Planning Commission approved the previous meeting's minutes. The commission reviewed presentations on a proposed 591-bed Ohio University residence hall and an appeal regarding a denied lot split at 0 Lavelle Road, but no formal cases were voted on. A presentation on zoning overlays, including a potential Stimson Avenue overlay, was also given.

• Approved May 15, 2024 minutes (3-0, Patterson abstained)
• Reviewed OU Title 41/OU Phase 2 Housing Project presentation (no vote)
• Reviewed appeal of lot split denial at 0 Lavelle Road (no vote)
• Reviewed zoning overlays presentation (no vote)

City Council

The Athens City Council will review several ordinances regarding solar energy projects and economic development funds. The meeting also includes discussions on affordable housing amendments and right-of-way use permits for local properties. Additionally, the council will consider participating in the National Opioid Settlement.

• Participation agreement for the National Opioid Settlement with Kroger
• Right-of-way use permits for 19 West Washington Street and 85 Elmwood Place
• Amendments to the University Estates Incentive District TIF agreement
• Acceptance of SOPEC community grant funds for solar projects
• Disposal of a city bus and an unneeded municipal vehicle

Athens City Council unanimously approved an amendment to the 2024 appropriation ordinance (0-61-24) during its special session. Council also advanced several ordinances for second and first readings, including a special use permit for off-street parking and light poles on East State Street and Grand Park Boulevard, and discussed a proposed tax increment financing (TIF) agreement for the University Estates development.

• Approved Ordinance 0-61-24 amending the 2024 appropriation ordinance unanimously
• Approved amendments to Ordinance 0-64-24 for a special use permit at 810 East State Street unanimously

Disabilities Commission

This meeting consists of procedural items including the disposition of May 2024 minutes and a treasurer's report. No specific new or old business topics are detailed in the provided agenda text.

• Disposition of May 2024 minutes
• Treasurer's Report

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities accepted the treasurer's report showing a balance of $2,035.94 and voted to support sending a letter to Arts, Parks, and Recreation requesting sensory-friendly pool hours. The commission also discussed planning for its upcoming 20th anniversary event in November.

• Accepted the Treasurer's Report
• Approved sending a letter to Arts, Parks, and Recreation requesting 1-2 times per week of designated sensory-friendly pool hours

Affordable Housing Commission

The commission will review its final bylaws and receive information from the International Town & Gown Association Conference. The agenda also includes discussions regarding city planning and zoning changes and the University Estates Woodsedge plan.

• Review of Final Bylaws
• Information from International Town & Gown Association Conference
• City Planning and Zoning Changes
• University Estates Woodsedge plan discussion

General

The Athens Historic Preservation Commission will review minutes from March, April, and May. The meeting includes an update on Mansfield House and a discussion regarding the Ohio History Connection Open Doors Event.

• Mansfield House update
• Ohio History Connection Open Doors Event discussion
• Review of March, April, and May minutes

The Historic Preservation Commission approved its minutes from March 11, April 15 and May 13, 2024, with all members present voting in favor and none opposed. Most of the meeting was updates and discussion rather than formal action: the Mansfield House architect and design, an updated preservation brochure, a Presbyterian Church plaque, and possible Ohio Open Doors events. The Commission left the final brochure design decision to Meghan and agreed Mary Anne would share final plaque wording so Andrew Chiki could order it. No other motions or votes were recorded.

• Approved March, April and May 2024 minutes (all in favor, none opposed)
• Delegated final brochure design decision to Meghan, who will order brochures from Minuteman Press
• Agreed Mary Anne will share final Presbyterian Church plaque wording so Andrew Chiki can order the plaque
• Adjourned at 6:16 p.m. (all in favor, none opposed)

City Council

The council will vote on several ordinances, including rezoning properties on Elliott Street and Grand Park Boulevard. Other items include a 20-year lease for soccer fields and joining the Southeast Ohio Recycling Terminal Council of Governments.

• Rezoning 14 through 36 Elliott Street from residential to business zone
• A 20-year lease with the State of Ohio for soccer fields north of West State Street
• Joining the Southeast Ohio Recycling Terminal (SORT) Council of Governments
• Funding for the Baileys Trail System using transient guest tax revenue
• Rezoning lots on Grand Park Boulevard and Eden Place to multi-family residential

Athens City Council approved several ordinances on June 17, 2024, including joining the Southeast Ohio Recycling Terminal (SORT) Council of Governments and paying its annual dues, and authorizing a lease of 8.334 acres north of West State Street for proposed soccer fields. Council also approved rezoning 14-36 Elliott Street from R-3 residential to neighborhood business by a 4-1 vote, with Spjeldnes opposed. A rezoning of undeveloped lots on Grand Park Boulevard and Eden Place was tabled until August 5 by a 3-2 vote over lighting compliance concerns, with Risner and Thomas opposed.

• Approved 2024 ORCA membership fee and Baileys Trail System support from transient guest tax (unanimous)
• Approved joining SORT Council of Governments and annual dues payment (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning 14, 20, 24, 30, 32, 34, 36 Elliott Street from R-3 to neighborhood business (4-1, Spjeldnes opposed)
• Tabled rezoning of undeveloped lots on Grand Park Boulevard and Eden Place until August 5 (3-2, Risner and Thomas opposed)
• Approved amending Ordinance 15-24 for 2024 uptown special event street closures (unanimous)
• Approved lease of 8.334 acres north of West State Street for proposed soccer fields (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of soccer netting for West State Park soccer fields, Project #355 (unanimous)
• Approved R-04-24 appointing a new member to The Ridges New Community Authority board (unanimous roll call)

Disabilities Commission Accessibility & Advocacy Committee

The Accessibility and Advocacy Committee will review previous meeting minutes. The committee is also scheduled to discuss planning for Walk Talk and Roll and receive a matrix update.

• Walk Talk and Roll planning
• Matrix update
• Approval of minutes

The committee met for general discussion, but no formal actions were taken because a quorum was not met. Members discussed pedestrian safety, bus stop accessibility, and ongoing city infrastructure projects.

• Approval of May minutes tabled

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will review tree permit requests for several properties. The meeting also includes updates on the Arboretum and discussions regarding landscape ordinance issues.

• Tree permit request - 60 Columbia
• Tree permit request - 32 W. Carpenter
• Tree permit request - 131 W. State
• Updates on the Arboretum and Environment & Sustainability Commission
• Discussion of Title 37 landscape ordinance issues

The commission approved three separate tree permit requests for removals at 60 Columbia, 32 W. Carpenter, and 131 W. State. Members also discussed coordinating pollinator and sustainability programs with the Environment & Sustainability Commission.

• Approved removal of Bradford Pear at Congress and Carpenter (60 Columbia)
• Approved removal of tree on city property at 32 W. Carpenter
• Approved removal of swamp white oak at 131 W. State
• Approved April 11, 2024 meeting minutes

Municipal Arts Commission

The Athens Municipal Arts Commission is reviewing progress on several local art initiatives. This includes updates on the East State/33 Underpass mural project and the Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park. The commission will also discuss the next Athens Poet Laureate term and audits of city-owned art spaces.

• Update on the East State/33 Underpass mural project
• Selection of an ad hoc committee for the Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park ribbon cutting
• Discussion regarding the Athens Poet Laureate selection process
• Progress updates on the Art Outside the Box project
• Audit of art in City of Athens-owned spaces

The Athens Municipal Arts Commission approved minutes from its May 8 combined meeting with the Recreation Advisory Board and voted to ask current Athens Poet Laureate Stephanie Kendrik to renew her term. The commission also received updates on public art projects, including the Fire Headquarters sculpture park, a parking garage mural, and the Athens Community Music and Arts Festival on Aug. 3. No other substantive decisions were recorded; remaining items were updates, announcements, or procedural.

• Approved May 8, 2024 AMAC/RAB combined meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved motion to ask Stephanie Kendrik to renew her Athens Poet Laureate term (all in favor)

Disabilities Commission Outreach & Communications Committee

The Outreach and Communication Committee will review its current needs and projects. The meeting also includes a kickoff for the Commission Commemoration celebration.

• Review of committee needs and projects
• Commission Commemoration celebration kickoff
• Approval of May 14, 2024 meeting minutes

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider requests regarding property usage and parking requirements. The board will also review minutes from the April 9 and May 14, 2024 meetings.

• Case #24-04S: Request to change 485 Richland Ave from mixed-use to residential
• Case #24-05V: Request for a parking variance at 16 Columbia Ave to allow one space instead of three
• Approval of minutes from April 9, 2024, and May 14, 2024

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a lot coverage variance for a property on Morris Avenue and granted two variances to allow a cat café on Stimson Avenue. The board also discussed potential city-wide zoning code changes regarding lot sizes and setbacks.

• Approved variance for 34% building lot coverage at 123 Morris Avenue (5-0)
• Approved variance to allow animal enclosure 25 feet from R-zone at 28 W Stimson Avenue (5-0)
• Approved variance for 6 on-site and 5 off-site parking spaces at 28 W Stimson Avenue (5-0)
• Approved February 13, 2024 meeting minutes
• Tabled approval of April 9, 2024 meeting minutes until June 11th

City Council

The Committee of the Whole discussed reappointments to the Ridges New Community Authority and the need to authorize participation in a Kroger opioid settlement by August 12. The Finance & Personnel Committee reviewed a proposal to shift Municipal Court employee salaries from 100% General Fund to 50% grant/50% General Fund. No formal decisions or votes were recorded in these minutes; items were flagged for upcoming agendas.

• Discussed reappointment of Dominick Brook and appointment of Randy Gonzalez to NCA Board
• Discussed authorization for Kroger opioid settlement participation (deadline Aug 12)
• Discussed shifting Municipal Court salaries to 50% grant/50% General Fund
• No formal votes or approvals recorded in these committee minutes

Environment & Sustainability Commission

The commission will discuss initiatives related to shade trees and biodiversity. The meeting also includes updates on collecting sustainability resources for the city website and a Council of Governments update.

• Shade trees and biodiversity related initiatives
• Progress on collecting sustainability resources for the city website
• Council of Governments update

City Council

City Council will hold public hearings on rezoning properties on Elliott Street, Grand Park Boulevard, and Eden Place. The body is also considering ordinances for street paving, a 20-year lease for soccer fields, and a partnership for community housing.

• Rezoning 14, 20, 24, 30, 32, 34 and 36 Elliott Street from R-3 to B-1
• Rezoning undeveloped lots on Grand Park Boulevard and Eden Place from R-2 to R-3
• 2024 Street Paving and Repairs Project (#370)
• 20-year lease for 8.334 acres north of West State Street for soccer fields
• Partnership agreement with Athens County Commissioners for the Community Housing Impact and Preservation Program (CHIP)

The Athens City Council unanimously approved an amendment to the 2024 Appropriation Ordinance decreasing the Income Tax Fund by $96,887.00 and increasing another fund by the same amount. The Council also unanimously reappointed Mollie Fitzgerald to the Affordable Housing Commission. Several ordinances for third reading, including rezonings and infrastructure projects, were discussed but not voted on, with significant debate regarding pedestrian safety and transparency in development plans.

• Approved amendment to 2024 Appropriation Ordinance (unanimous)
• Reappointed Mollie Fitzgerald to Affordable Housing Commission (unanimous)
• Ordinance 0-46-24 (Mill Cap modifications) discussed; motion to table withdrawn
• Ordinance 0-56-24 (Uptown street closures) discussed; no vote recorded
• Public hearing held for Elliott Street rezoning (R-3 to B-1); no vote recorded
• Public hearing held for Grand Park/Eden Place rezoning (R-2 to R-3); no vote recorded

Community Relations Commission

The commission will meet to review notes from the April meeting and discuss old and new business. The agenda consists of procedural items.

• Review of April meeting notes

The commission approved the adoption of an extended land acknowledgement to be read at the start of meetings. Members discussed organizing a town hall on journalistic integrity and reviewed a draft land acknowledgement resolution currently undergoing feedback from tribal and student groups.

• Adopted April meeting minutes
• Decided to read extended land acknowledgement at the beginning of meetings
• Confirmed registration for Juneteenth tabling on June 22

Affordable Housing Commission

The commission will meet to discuss its bylaws and receive a status update on the Ridges project. The meeting also includes the disposition of minutes and a question and answer session.

• Discussion of By Law Document
• Status update on the Ridges project provided by Joe Recchie

The commission approved updated by-laws to align member counts and terms with city ordinance. Members also received a presentation on redevelopment plans for the Ridges, including proposed senior and artist housing.

• Approved updated by-laws (unanimous)

City Council

City Council will hold a public hearing on the Community Development Block Grant Program and discuss the Woodsedge TIF. The body is reviewing multiple ordinances regarding street paving, city network upgrades, and land use changes.

• Rezoning of 14, 20, 24, 30, 32, 34 and 36 Elliott Street from R-3 to B-1
• Rezoning of undeveloped lots on Grand Park Boulevard and Eden Place from R-2 to R-3
• Authorization of the 2024 street paving and repairs project (#370)
• Proposed 20-year lease of 8.334 acres north of West State Street for soccer fields
• Authorization of a city network upgrade project (#369)

The Planning & Development Committee discussed a plan for the City to fund public infrastructure for the Woodsedge TIF housing project, estimated at $2.1 million, to allow development to proceed. This requires two ordinances for first reading at the regular session, including an amended TIF agreement. Separately, the Council held a public hearing on Community Development Block Grant funds, proposing West Side Sidewalks for 2024. No final votes were recorded in these minutes.

• Discussed City funding $2.1M infrastructure for Woodsedge TIF housing
• Proposed two ordinances for first reading: fund authorization and TIF amendment
• Held second public hearing on CDBG funds
• Proposed West Side Sidewalks as 2024 CDBG activity
• CDBG hearing adjourned with no public comments

Recreation Advisory Board

The board is reviewing updates on several public art initiatives, including mural projects and the Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park. Members are also discussing the Athens Community Music and Arts Festival scheduled for August 3.

• Athens County Children Services East State/33 Underpass mural project update
• Goal to install 10 canvas benches in the City of Athens
• Selection of an ad hoc committee for the Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park opening in October
• Athens City Mural audit and enhancement progress
• Art Outside the Box project timeline for mApp Athens submission

The Athens Municipal Arts Commission (AMAC) and Recreation Advisory Board (RAB) met May 8, 2024 at the Community Center, 701 East State Street, to hear project updates. The minutes record discussion and status reports — including the East State/33 underpass mural, the Fire Headquarters sculpture park, the Athens City mural audit, Art Outside the Box, and the Aug. 3 Athens Community Music and Arts Festival — but no motions, votes, approvals or denials. RAB agreed the Athens City side of the underpass mural be painted by a local artist, and the sculpture park subcommittee accepted work needing safety alterations. Next meetings: AMAC June 12 and RAB July 18, both 5:30-7:00 PM.

• No formal motions, votes or approvals recorded in the minutes
• RAB agreed the Athens City side of the East State/33 underpass mural be painted by a local artist
• Sculpture park subcommittee accepted work requiring safety alterations; Holly Ittle to submit to Patty for next steps
• Holly Ittle to write a press release for the sculpture park; goal is an October opening
• Ad hoc committee to be selected for planning the October sculpture park opening
• Recommended Mill Creek Mile and Ready Aim Flowers (per minutes)
• Next AMAC meeting set for June 12, 5:30-7:00 PM at ARTS/West
• Next RAB meeting set for July 18, 5:30-7:00 PM in chambers

Planning Commission

The Athens Planning Commission will meet to discuss Case #24-05 regarding tobacco and cannabis zoning. The body will also review minutes from the May 1, 2024 meeting.

• Case #24-05 Tobacco Zoning and Cannabis Zoning

The commission approved Case #24-05 to establish zoning and distancing requirements for cannabis and tobacco establishments. The proposal includes limits on the number of cannabis stores per zone and a 500-foot buffer between tobacco retail locations.

• Approved Case #24-05 zoning for cannabis and tobacco retail (4-0)
• Approved 500-foot buffer between tobacco, vapor, or cigarette retail establishments
• Approved cannabis limits: max 2 in B-2, 5 in B-2D, 12 in B-3, and 5 in M zones
• Approved 500-foot buffer for cannabis stores from schools, libraries, parks, playgrounds, and other cannabis stores
• Approved May 1, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)

Disabilities Commission

The Commission will meet to discuss the outcomes of the Walk, Talk, and Roll event, including budget receipts and areas for improvement. Members will also receive reports from the Executive, Accessibility and Advocacy, and Outreach and Communications committees.

• Walk, Talk, and Roll recap and final budget review
• Athens Photo Project update
• Athena Award discussion
• Recruitment and city communication updates

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will review two variance requests regarding building lot coverage and animal enclosure setbacks. The board will also address the disposition of minutes from the April 9, 2024 meeting.

• Case #24-02V: Request for 34% building lot coverage at 123 Morris (30% maximum allowed)
• Case #24-03V: Request to allow animal enclosure 25 feet from an R-zone at 28 W Stimson Avenue (200 feet required)
• Case #24-03V: Request for 6 on-site parking spaces at 28 W Stimson Avenue (11 required)

Disabilities Commission Outreach & Communications Committee

The Outreach and Communication Committee is meeting to review recent community events and discuss potential new members. The body will also determine first steps for the Athena Award and plan future meetings.

• Review of Developmental Disability Awareness Festival
• Review of Walk, Talk, and Roll
• Review of Senior Day
• Discussion of first steps for Athena Award

The committee approved minutes from two previous meetings and discussed planning for the 10th anniversary of the Athena Award. Members identified potential new student members and reviewed recent community events.

• Approved February 13, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved March 12, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will meet as a Committee of the Whole to discuss several administrative and community items. The session includes reviews of local government agreements and city ordinances.

• Union Street closure for Juneteenth Celebration
• Southeast Ohio Recycling Terminal (SORT) Council of Governments
• Ordinance 28-24 regarding transfer amount amendment
• Soccer field lease and netting
• Non-Union benefits promotion section amendment

The Committee of the Whole discussed joining the Southeast Ohio Recycling Terminal (SORT) Council of Governments (COG), with legislation expected for first reading the following week. Council also reviewed a proposed amendment to non-union benefits promotion language, a 25-year lease for soccer fields owned by Ohio University, and an increase in an interfund transfer for the Armory Project. No final decisions were made; items were placed on an upcoming City Council agenda.

• No substantive decisions made; items discussed and placed on upcoming agenda
• COG legislation to be given first reading next week
• Special event street closure for Juneteenth added to upcoming agenda
• Non-union benefits promotion amendment placed on upcoming agenda
• Soccer field lease and netting funding placed on upcoming agenda
• Ordinance 28-24 transfer amount increase placed on upcoming agenda
• Appropriation of $9,000 to Garbage Fund placed on upcoming agenda

Historic Preservation Commission

The Athens Historic Preservation Commission will meet to discuss new business regarding local historic sites. The agenda includes reviews of the East State Street log house and the Mt. Zion Appalachian Black Cultural Center.

• East State Street log house (Mansfield House)
• Mt. Zion Appalachian Black Cultural Center renovations
• Jason Dudas history videos

Disabilities Commission Accessibility & Advocacy Committee

The Accessibility and Advocacy Committee is meeting to review the Walk Talk and Roll event. The session includes the approval of previous minutes and general announcements.

• Walk Talk and Roll debrief

The Accessibility and Advocacy Committee met on May 10, 2024, and approved its April 12, 2024, meeting minutes. The rest of the meeting was discussion and updates: a debrief on the Walk, Talk and Roll event, planning suggestions for next year, and reports on accessibility projects including the Union Street pedestrian detour, the accessibility matrix, the Strouds Run Beach project, and an Alexander School playground. No new motions, votes, or funding decisions were recorded beyond approving the prior minutes and adjourning.

• Approved April 12, 2024, committee meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion seconded; no vote tally recorded)

Municipal Arts Commission

The commission and Review Arts Board are meeting to receive updates on various public art projects. Discussions include the status of city murals and the planning of a sculpture park opening.

• Athens County Children Services East State/33 Underpass mural project update
• Goal to install 10 canvas benches in the City of Athens
• Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park update and selection of an opening planning committee
• Athens City Mural audit and enhancement progress
• Art Outside the Box project timeline for mApp Athens submission

The commission reviewed progress on the Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park and the Athens City Mural audit. Members discussed planning for the Athens Community Music and Arts Festival on August 3. No formal votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Accepted sculpture park work requiring safety alterations
• Agreed that the Athens City side of the East State/33 Underpass mural be painted by a local artist

City Council

The Athens City Council will vote on several ordinances, including a contract renewal for police body cameras and Tasers. The agenda also includes discussions regarding street paving projects and community grant funds.

• Renewing Axon Enterprise contract to upgrade police body cameras and Tasers
• Authorizing a city fiber network project
• Purchasing a bucket truck for the Street Department
• Accepting NOPEC 2024 Energized Community Grant funds
• Amending DORA hours and area

The Athens City Council unanimously adopted ordinances accepting a $6.5 million Appalachian Community grant for streetscape improvements and authorizing upgrades to police body cameras and tasers. The Council tabled an ordinance regarding the Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia (ORCA) membership fee pending further review of the agreement's terms and financial impact. Additionally, the Council authorized a contract with Washington County for jail housing and joined a statewide tobacco litigation case.

• Approved $6.5M Appalachian Community grant for streetscape improvements
• Adopted ordinance authorizing Axon Enterprise contract for police body cameras and tasers
• Adopted ordinance authorizing NOPEC grant acceptance for electric equipment rebates
• Adopted ordinance authorizing Washington County jail contract ($100/day per prisoner)
• Adopted ordinance authorizing purchase of bucket truck for Street Department
• Adopted ordinance authorizing Athens Uptown Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA)
• Tabled ordinance authorizing ORCA membership fee payment for further review
• Approved joining statewide tobacco litigation (Columbus et al. v State et al.)

Planning Commission

The commission will review proposed changes to the Athens City Code and conduct a Title 41 review for the Southeast Beverage Warehouse Addition. The meeting also includes communications regarding tobacco and marijuana dispensary zoning.

• Case #24-03: Changes to Athens City Code
• Case #24-04: Title 41 Review/Southeast Beverage Warehouse Addition
• Communications regarding tobacco and marijuana dispensary zoning

The Athens City Planning Commission voted 5:0 to accept Case #24-03, a set of proposed changes to city code Title 21 and Title 23 bulk controls aimed at addressing housing affordability, with three amendments: striking the maximum front yard requirement in R-1, removing uncovered steps from front yard setback calculations, and increasing the maximum height in R-3 zones from 45 feet/3.5 stories to 55 feet/4.5 stories. The commission also approved Case #24-04, a site plan review for a warehouse addition for Southeast Beverage, by a 4:0 vote with Austin Phillips recused. In communications, staff presented a refined proposal to allow cannabis establishments as principal permitted uses in certain zones with distance and number limits; the commission discussed adding similar limits for tobacco-licensed establishments and the chair said it will come forward as a single case at the next meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Case #24-03 zoning code changes (Title 21 & 23 bulk controls) with amendments (5:0)
• Amended R-1: struck maximum front yard requirement
• Amended: removed uncovered steps from front yard setback requirement
• Amended R-3: increased height maximum from 45 ft/3.5 stories to 55 ft/4.5 stories
• Approved Case #24-04 Southeast Beverage warehouse addition site plan (4:0, Phillips recused)
• Approved April 3, 2024 minutes (5:0)

Environment & Sustainability Commission

The commission will review April 3, 2024 minutes and finalize plans for a move-out. Discussions include biodiversity initiatives such as Shade Trees and the Hocking river corridor study. New appointments and re-appointments are also on the agenda.

• Biodiversity initiatives including Leave the Leaves, Shade Trees, and Hocking river corridor study
• Finalizing plans for move-out
• New appointments and re-appointments

The commission approved the minutes from the April 4, 2024 meeting. Members discussed biodiversity initiatives, the Hocking River Corridor Study, and the collection of sustainability resources for the city website.

• Approved April 4, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council

Athens City Council will discuss rezoning requests for Elliot Street and several parcels on Grand Park Blvd. and Eden Place. The agenda also includes updates on FEMA mapping, the Hocking River Study, and annual street paving.

• Elliot Street rezoning from R-3 & B-3 to B-1
• Grand Town Eden LLC rezoning request for 4 parcels on Grand Park Blvd. and Eden Place
• USACE Hocking River Study local participation/share (FY24-26)
• New FEMA Mapping amendment to ACC 25.01.07
• 2024 Annual Street Paving, Project #370

Recreation Advisory Board

The Athens Recreation Advisory Board will discuss community feedback regarding West State Street Dog Park concerns and ballfield accessibility issues. The board also intends to confirm a date and location for a collaborative meeting with AMAC.

• West State Street Dog Park concerns
• West State Street Ballfield accessibility issues
• Collaborative meeting with AMAC
• New board member confirmations

The Athens County Recreation Advisory Board approved agenda additions and previous minutes. No new ordinances or contracts were voted on. The board discussed ongoing park maintenance issues, including a muddy dog park and handicapped parking violations, and reviewed updates on facility projects like playgrounds and pool repairs.

• Agenda additions approved
• Previous meeting minutes approved
• Meeting adjourned

Community Relations Commission

The Athens Community Relations Commission will meet on April 18, 2024, to review March minutes and discuss local community relations matters. Key topics include a discrimination reporting process, membership updates or term changes, an APG response with potential town hall planning, and a land acknowledgment resolution. The commission will also table discussions for Juneteenth activities scheduled for June 22.

• Review March meeting minutes
• Discuss discrimination reporting process
• Update membership terms or structure
• Address APG response and potential town hall
• Plan Juneteenth activities for June 22

Disabilities Commission

The commission will discuss planning for the April 19 Walk, Talk, and Roll event, including speakers, flyers, and routes. The meeting also includes committee reports regarding accessibility, advocacy, and outreach.

• Budget approval for Walk, Talk, and Roll
• Planning for April 19 event speakers, flyers, and routes
• Disability Fair report back
• Update on meetings with Saleh and EPW

The Commission approved the March meeting minutes and the treasurer's report. A budget of $600 was authorized for the Walk, Talk, and Roll event scheduled for April 19.

• Approved March meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Accepted treasurer's report showing $2,500 balance (Approved)
• Approved $600 budget for Walk, Talk, and Roll (Unanimous)

General

The commission will review documents, communication, and bylaws for passing. The meeting includes a discussion on a housing and zoning overview with Charles Gardner of the Mercatus Center.

• Review and pass bylaws
• Housing/zoning overview discussion with Charles Gardner

The commission discussed zoning reforms and housing costs with representatives from the Mercatus Center. A motion to adopt the City of Athens Affordable Housing Commission bylaws was tabled due to time constraints.

• Tabled motion to adopt City of Athens Affordable Housing Commission bylaws

Historic Preservation Commission

The Commission appointed William Walker as Secretary. Members discussed a proposed commission brochure and the condition of the building at 667 East State Street.

• Appointed William Walker as Secretary
• Referred the proposed commission brochure to the City Planner for revisions
• Decided to invite Mayor Patterson, Barney Grueser, and Tom O’Grady to the May meeting to discuss 667 East State Street

City Council

The Athens City Council will vote on ordinances regarding bridge rehabilitation, police equipment contracts, and city utility projects. The meeting also includes a public hearing for the Community Development Block Grant program.

• Engineering services for Stimson Avenue Bridge rehabilitation (Ordinance 0-30-24)
• Renewal of Axon Enterprise contract for police body cameras and tasers (Ordinance 0-34-24)
• Right-of-way permits for North Court Street and West Carpenter Street
• Authorization of the City Fiber Network project (Ordinance 0-33-24)
• Acceptance of NOPEC 2024 Energized Community Grant funds (Ordinance 0-35-24)

Council approved the purchase of a fire pumper truck and participation in the ODOT Cooperative Purchasing Program. They also adopted an ordinance amending the 2024 appropriation ordinance and authorized engineering services for the Stimson Avenue Bridge rehabilitation.

• Approved purchase of fire pumper truck from Atlantic Emergency Solutions, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved participation in the Ohio Department of Cooperative Purchasing Program (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance O-28-24 amending 2024 appropriation ordinance and interfund transfer (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance O-30-24 for Stimson Avenue Bridge rehabilitation engineering services (unanimous)
• Approved March 2024 Financial Reports (unanimous)
• Approved March 2024 Credit Card Transactions (unanimous)
• Appointed Juli Goodman to the Community Relations Commission (unanimous)
• Denied motion to table Ordinance O-45-24 regarding ORCA membership fee (2-5)

Disabilities Commission Accessibility & Advocacy Committee

The Accessibility and Advocacy Committee will review a conversation with Saleh and conduct planning for the Walk Talk and Roll event. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes.

• Review conversation with Saleh
• Walk Talk and Roll planning
• Approval of minutes

The committee approved the previous meeting's minutes and discussed pedestrian safety improvements near Kershaw Greene, rejecting a walking bridge proposal. They also reviewed accessibility issues related to the Stimson Avenue Bridge closure and finalized plans for an upcoming community event.

• Approved March 8, 2024 meeting minutes
• Rejected recommendation for a walking bridge at Kershaw Greene
• Agreed to publish committee spreadsheet on Commission website
• Suggested city invest in accessible ramps for Stimson Avenue detour
• Finalized plans for Walk, Talk and Roll Event

City Council

The council will review committee reports regarding safety services, finance, and regional cooperation. Discussions include ORCA membership fees and potential amendments to the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA). The City & Safety Services Committee will address equipment replacements including a pumper truck and bucket truck.

• ORCA 2024 membership fee
• Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) amendment
• Replacement Pumper Truck
• City Network Upgrade (Project #369)
• Bucket Truck

Council discussed joining a Council of Governments (COG) for solid waste services to potentially replace the current Rumpke contract. No formal votes were taken on the COG, ORCA membership, or DORA extensions, which are slated for future agendas.

• Tabled decision on joining the Southeast Ohio Area Resource Management (SOAR) COG
• Tabled decision on Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia (ORCA) membership
• Tabled decision on extending the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) footprint and hours

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals is reviewing a variance request for 123 Morris Avenue to allow 34% building lot coverage instead of the 30% maximum. The board will also address minutes from the February 13, 2024 meeting.

• Case #24-02V: Request for 34% building lot coverage at 123 Morris Avenue
• Disposition of minutes from February 13, 2024

Planning Commission

The Athens Planning Commission will consider a rezoning request for Grand Park Blvd. and Eden Pl. The meeting includes discussions on changes to ACC subdivisions and minimum allowable lot sizes. A review regarding the Southeast Beverage Warehouse addition is also scheduled.

• Rezoning request for Grand Park Blvd. & Eden Pl. (Case #24-02)
• Changes to ACC Subdivisions 21.03.02, 21.03.03, and 21.03.07
• Updates to minimum allowable lot sizes in Title 21 and Title 23
• Review of Southeast Beverage Warehouse addition

The Athens City Planning Commission voted 5-0 to recommend rezoning five parcels at Grand Park Blvd. & Eden Pl. to R-3 instead of the requested B-3. A motion to approve the original B-3 request failed due to lack of a second. The commission tabled proposed changes to subdivision codes and minimum lot sizes for further research. A site plan review for a Southeast Beverage warehouse addition was discussed but deferred to the next meeting.

• Approved March 20, 2024 minutes (4-0)
• Recommended rezoning Grand Park Blvd parcels to R-3 (5-0)
• Motion to approve B-3 rezoning failed (no second)
• Tabled Case #24-03 regarding subdivision and lot size code changes
• Deferred Title 41 review for Southeast Beverage warehouse addition

Environment & Sustainability Commission

The Athens Environment and Sustainability Commission will review Earth Week plans and moveout strategies. The meeting includes presentations on 'Leave the Leaves' and the Athens Trees tree protection ordinance. Nominations for Sustainability Awards are also open.

• Earth Week plans and announcements
• Moveout plans and video presentation
• 'Leave the Leaves' presentation by Rural Action/The Polygonia Foundation
• Discussion of tree protection ordinance and Athens Trees involvement
• Sustainability Award nominations

The Commission approved the minutes from the March 6, 2024 meeting. Members discussed Earth Week events, MoveOUt volunteer promotion, and potential 'Leave the Leaves' and tree protection initiatives.

• Approved March 6, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The council will vote on ordinances regarding municipal income tax changes and State Route 682/56 intersection improvements. The agenda also includes engineering services for the Stimson Avenue Bridge and a contract renewal for police body cameras.

• Preliminary engineering for State Route 682/56 intersection improvements
• Amendments to the municipal income tax code
• Engineering services for Stimson Avenue Bridge rehabilitation
• Contract renewal with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for police body cameras and tasers
• Acceptance of NOPEC 2024 Energized Community Grant funds

City Council unanimously passed three ordinances regarding intersection engineering, municipal income tax updates, and appropriation amendments. The council also appointed three new members to the Environment & Sustainability Commission.

• Approved preliminary engineering for State Route 682/56 intersection improvements (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to Municipal Income Tax code (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to the 2024 Appropriation Ordinance 130-23 (unanimous)
• Appointed Daniel Bell-Moran, Francis (Shane) Benton, and Nichole Mazzone to the Environment & Sustainability Commission (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from March 18, 2024 session

General

The commission will review the discrimination reporting project and discuss potential work groups for land acknowledgement and global issue resolutions. Members will also address 2024 event priorities and committee retreats.

• Discrimination reporting project review
• Possible work group for global issue impact resolution
• Land acknowledgement resolution review
• Response to letter from COA DEIA Coordinator
• 2024 event and program priorities retreat

Affordable Housing Commission

The commission addressed a discrepancy between city code and bylaws regarding the maximum number of members. To comply with the 11-member limit established in the city code, one member resigned from their voting position.

• Michele Papai resigned from voting position to resolve membership overage

City Council

Athens City Council will meet to consider several items, including two Title 49 applications for properties on N. Court and W. Carpenter streets, a contract renewal for police body cameras and tasers, a grant for the NOPEC Energized Community program, and an amendment to the City Fiber Network project. The meeting includes committee discussions on planning, finance, and city services.

• Title 49 Application (74 N. Court/Uptown Realty Group, LLC)
• Title 49 Application (32 W. Carpenter/Mount Zion Black Cultural Center)
• Axon (APD body worn camera and taser contract renewal)
• 2024 NOPEC Energized Community Grant
• City Fiber Network, Project #347 (amend 0-02-24)

Three committees met to discuss infrastructure, public safety, and zoning permits. No final votes were recorded; all items were referred to a future City Council agenda for action.

• Referred Project #347 fiber network expenditure increase to $610,000 to City Council
• Referred Axon body camera and taser contract renewal to City Council
• Referred 2024 NOPEC Energized Community Grant to City Council
• Referred Uptown Realty Group balcony permit (74 N. Court St.) to City Council
• Referred Mount Zion Black Cultural Center ADA drop-off permit (32 W. Carpenter) to City Council

Recreation Advisory Board

The Athens Recreation Advisory Board reviews community feedback and discusses indoor play equipment from a mall site and a City of Athens controlled hunting program, which would affect park facilities and local land use. The board also considers four nominees for vacant seats to maintain recreation oversight and schedules a joint meeting with AMAC. The agenda lists these items as discussions and considerations rather than final decisions.

• Discussion of indoor play equipment from a mall site
• Review of the City of Athens controlled hunting program
• Consideration of four nominees for vacant advisory board seats
• Scheduling a joint meeting with AMAC
• APR staff report and community insights update

The board discussed relocating indoor play equipment from the mall to the community center and the potential implementation of a controlled hunting program in city parks. No formal votes were recorded on these proposals.

• Approved February meeting minutes

Planning Commission

The Athens Planning Commission will receive an update on a rezoning request for Grand Park Blvd and Eden Place. The commission will also discuss suggested changes to subdivision codes and hear reports from the City Planner and Code Enforcement Director.

• Rezoning update for Grand Park Blvd and Eden Place
• Suggested changes to ACC 21.03.02 and 21.03.07/Subdivisions
• Reports from the City Planner and Code Enforcement Director

Disabilities Commission

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities will review February minutes and approve community center passes for clients of Hopewell and Integrated Services. Members will also discuss 2024 committee goals, delayed ABC grants, and final planning details for the April 19 Walk, Talk, and Roll event.

• Approval of February 2024 meeting minutes
• Distribution of community center passes for Hopewell and Integrated Services clients
• Status updates on ABC Grant sites and delayed 2024 grants
• Planning details for the April 19 Walk, Talk, and Roll event (speakers, flyer, route)

The commission approved the February 21, 2024 meeting minutes. Members discussed the removal of free Community Center passes for disability service provider clients and reviewed updates on ABC Grant funding and the Walk, Talk, and Roll event.

• Approved February 21, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The council will vote on ordinances regarding property conveyance at 83 Columbus Road and bike path easements. Discussions include sewer system improvements, intersection upgrades, and municipal income tax amendments. A resolution to implement a hiring freeze for certain city positions is also scheduled for consideration.

• Conveying 83 Columbus Road property to the Athens Community Improvement Corporation
• Resolution requesting a hiring freeze for General Fund positions pending a review
• Contracts for construction and engineering of sewer system improvements (Project #330)
• Engineering services for State Route 682/56 intersection improvements (Project #357)
• Naming an unnamed right of way on Herrold Avenue as 'Davison Court'

Council unanimously adopted a resolution requesting a hiring freeze for general-fund positions until a position review is done, described by the Mayor as a soft freeze on vacant positions that could run to December 31, 2024. Council also unanimously adopted ordinances conveying 83 Columbus Road to the Athens Community Improvement Corporation, accepting bike path and utility easements from the Athens County Public Libraries, and authorizing sewer system construction contracts for Project #330. Several ordinances advanced on second and first readings, including a then-and-now payment to BIS Digital approved unanimously. Council accepted financial reports and confirmed appointments to the City-County Board of Health and the Affordable Housing Commission.

• Adopted R-03-24 hiring freeze for general-fund positions until a position review (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance conveying 83 Columbus Road to the Athens Community Improvement Corporation (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance accepting permanent bike path and utility right-of-way easements from the Athens County Public Libraries (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance authorizing contracts for sewer system improvements, Project #330, with emergency suspension of rules (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance naming the unnamed right of way on Herrold Avenue as Davison Court (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance approving a then-and-now certificate for payment to BIS Digital (unanimous)
• Accepted February 2024 financial reports and December 2023/February 2024 credit card transactions (unanimous)
• Confirmed Dr. Anu Gupta to the City-County Board of Health and Amy Lipka and Mary Abel to the Affordable Housing Commission (unanimous)

Municipal Arts Commission

The Athens Municipal Arts Commission is reviewing progress on several public art initiatives, including mural projects and the Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park. The commission will also discuss selecting committees for future arts programming.

• Update on the Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park and selection of an ad hoc committee
• Progress report on the East State/33 Underpass mural project
• Goal to place 10 canvas benches in the City of Athens
• Discussion regarding the 2025-2027 Athens Poet Laurette selection process
• Audit of art within City of Athens-owned spaces

The Athens Municipal Arts Commission unanimously approved its February 14, 2024 minutes and unanimously passed a motion to adjourn. Discussion items included the Fire Headquarters sculpture park, which was tabled until the April meeting when Holly and Andrew are present, and the Art in City Spaces project, also tabled until April. The commission also discussed the Athens City Mural Audit & Enhancement, the Athens Poet Laureate program (Stephanie's term expires December 31, 2024), and a possible artist registry, but the minutes record no votes or approvals on those items.

• Approved February 14, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled Fire Headquarters sculpture park planning until April meeting
• Tabled Art in City Spaces project until April meeting
• Passed motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Disabilities Commission Outreach & Communications Committee

The Outreach and Communication Committee will discuss changes to committee membership and marketing for 'Walk, Talk, and Roll.' The committee also plans to host a table at the Developmental Disability Awareness Festival. A quorum may not be present due to Ohio University’s spring break.

• Changes to committee membership
• Table at Developmental Disability Awareness Festival
• Walk, Talk, and Roll marketing

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities Outreach and Communication Committee met on March 12, 2024, but quorum was not established. Consequently, no formal votes were taken on any agenda items. The committee discussed membership changes, upcoming outreach events, and scheduling for the next meeting.

• Quorum not established
• January 9, 2024 minutes approved without vote
• Suzanne Knauerhause removed from committee membership
• No formal votes held on business items

Historic Preservation Commission

The agenda consists only of procedural items and the review of past minutes. No specific projects, ordinances, or new business are listed in the document.

• Review of December 11, 2023 minutes

The meeting was not held because a quorum was not present. No action was taken on any Commission business or matters.

City Council

The Athens City Council will meet to review committee items regarding infrastructure and personnel. Agenda topics include an amendment for the Stimson Avenue Bridge project and a discussion on a hiring freeze.

• Stimson Avenue Bridge, Project #358 amendment
• Hiring freeze
• ORCA Membership
• Appropriations

The Committee of the Whole deferred a decision on a $90,000 payment to the Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia (ORCA) until later in the year due to concerns about the General Fund cash reserve. The Finance & Personnel Committee advanced a hiring freeze resolution for General Fund positions and appropriations for Bureau of Workers' Compensation payments and an ARPA fund transfer. The Transportation Committee advanced an ordinance to amend Project #358 for Stimson Avenue Bridge maintenance.

• Deferred $90,000 ORCA membership payment to later in 2024
• Advanced Hiring Freeze Resolution for General Fund positions
• Advanced $100,000 appropriation for Bureau of Workers' Compensation payments
• Advanced $160,432.70 transfer from ARPA Fund to Athens Community Improvement Corporation
• Advanced ordinance to amend Project #358 for Stimson Avenue Bridge maintenance
• Advanced Then & Now Certificate for upcoming agenda

Disabilities Commission Accessibility & Advocacy Committee

This meeting consists of standard procedural items including establishing a quorum and approving minutes. The committee will also hold updates with Saleh and discuss Walk Talk and Roll.

• Approval of minutes
• Conversations and updates with Saleh
• Walk Talk and Roll

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities Accessibility and Advocacy Committee met on March 8, 2024, and unanimously approved the February minutes. The committee received updates on accessibility projects including Uptown, Columbus Road, Krenshaw Green, and Union Street, and discussed plans for the Walk Talk and Roll event. No new project approvals or funding decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.

• Approved February minutes unanimously (Davey McNelly motion, Stephanie Hunter second)

Planning Commission

The commission will consider Case #24-01 regarding the rezoning of Elliott Street. The agenda also includes discussions on rezoning portions of Grand Park Blvd and Eden Place, as well as zoning for tobacco and marijuana dispensaries. Reports from the City Planner and Code Enforcement Director are scheduled.

• Case #24-01 Elliott Street Rezoning Request
• Rezoning request for portions of Grand Park Blvd and Eden Place
• Tobacco and marijuana dispensary zoning discussions
• Planning Commission 2024 goals review

The commission recommended rezoning several parcels on Elliott Street to B-1, contingent on owner agreement for some lots. A rezoning request for Don Wood Hyundai was delayed for further review of neighbor concerns, and the commission adopted its 2024 goals.

• Recommended approval of Case #24-01 rezoning southern parcels to B-1 (3-1)
• Approved February 21, 2024 meeting minutes
• Accepted 2024 Planning Commission Goals (4-0)
• Tabled Grand Park Blvd rezoning request for further research on buffers and lighting

Environment & Sustainability Commission

The commission will discuss Earth Day plans and move-out plans. The meeting also includes a presentation titled 'Leave the Leaves.'

• 'Leave the Leaves' presentation
• Earth Day plans
• Move-out plans

The Environment & Sustainability Commission unanimously approved a resolution recommending Nichole Mazzone, Shane Benton, and Daniel Bell-Moran for immediate appointment, and Megan Westervelt for a second term. The commission also discussed Earth Day events and MoveOut planning, noting that official engagement with Ohio University is pending staff vacancies. A presentation on 'Leave the Leaves' was postponed because the guest speaker was unavailable.

• Approved February meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended Nichole Mazzone, Shane Benton, and Daniel Bell-Moran for appointment (unanimous)
• Recommended Megan Westervelt for a second term (unanimous)
• Postponed 'Leave the Leaves' presentation due to speaker absence
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The council is reviewing final ordinances for East State Street signal improvements and regulations for 2024 special events. The agenda also includes amendments to the municipal income tax code and property transfers.

• Contracts and funding for the East State Street signal improvements project (#367)
• Rule suspensions for street closures, vending, and noise during 2024 special events
• Amendments to the municipal income tax code regarding levy authority and payment
• Conveying city property at 83 Columbus Road to the Athens Community Improvement Corporation
• Engineering services for State Route 682/56 intersection improvements

City Council approved several ordinances regarding public safety, parking, and infrastructure. The most significant financial action was increasing the budget for city sewer system improvements to $2,107,350.00.

• Approved $2,107,350.00 for city sewer system improvements (unanimous)
• Approved annual purchase of water softening salt (unanimous)
• Approved bids and contracts for East State Street signal improvements (unanimous)
• Approved street closures for 2024 special events in Uptown (unanimous)
• Approved suspension of vending and noise ordinances in event areas (unanimous)
• Approved residential parking suspension from Dec 15, 2024, to Jan 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved temporary suspension of parking fees in municipal garage (unanimous)
• Accepted December 2023 Financial Reports (unanimous)

City Council

The council will review amendments to the municipal tax code and sewer system improvements. Agenda items also include parking regulation changes, intersection improvements at State Route 682/56, and renaming a new right-of-way near Herrold Avenue. A presentation on the Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia is scheduled.

• Amendments to Title 17 (Municipal Tax)
• Project #330 Sewer System Improvements
• State Route 682/56 Intersection Improvements (Project #357)
• Renaming a new right-of-way at Herrold Avenue to Davison Court
• Court personnel budget shortfalls

Council members debated a proposed resolution for addressing the local impacts of global crises and discussed funding for the Baileys Trail System. The Planning & Development Committee moved to rename a right of way to Davison Court to honor the first Black attorney in Athens County.

• Proposed resolution on global crises guidance discussed; no vote recorded
• Renaming right of way to Davison Court moved to upcoming agenda
• Proposed update to Municipal Tax code (Title 17) moved to upcoming agenda
• Sewer System Improvements (Project #330) moved to upcoming agenda
• Proposed design cost increase for Project #357 moved to upcoming agenda
• Proposed overnight parking changes in uptown area discussed; no action taken

Community Relations Commission

The Community Relations Commission will review previous meeting notes and discuss the discrimination reporting process. The agenda also includes discussing a City Council resolution regarding the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and planning for upcoming 2024 events.

• City Council resolution: Ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict
• Discrimination reporting process and flow
• Recruitment efforts at AMS and AHS for anti-racism work
• Planning for 2024 events including International Street Fair and Juneteenth

The commission approved meeting notes from January and February and appointed new leadership. Members decided to table a City Council resolution regarding a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict to gather more community input and information on Strong Cities resources.

• Approved January 24 meeting notes
• Approved February 8 meeting notes
• Appointed Rebecca Robison-Miller as chair
• Appointed Rachel Siegel as vice-chair
• Tabled City Council resolution on Israel-Hamas ceasefire

Planning Commission

The Athens Planning Commission will discuss a rezoning request for Elliott Street and zoning related to tobacco and marijuana dispensaries. The meeting also includes reports from the City Planner and Code Enforcement Director.

• Elliott Street Rezoning Request
• Tobacco Zoning and Marijuana Dispensary Zoning
• 2024 Planning Commission Goals
• Code Enforcement Director report
• City Planner report

The commission approved the January 25, 2024 minutes. Members discussed a rezoning request for Elliott Street and potential zoning restrictions for tobacco and marijuana dispensaries, though no final decisions were made on these items.

• Approved January 25, 2024 minutes (3-0)

Disabilities Commission

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities is reviewing 2024 committee goals and progress on ABC Grant sites. Members will also plan speakers, flyers, and routes for the April 19 Walk, Talk, and Roll event. Subcommittees will provide updates on accessibility, advocacy, and outreach.

• Planning for the April 19 Walk, Talk, and Roll event
• Review of 2024 committee goals
• Updates on ABC Grant sites and 2024 grants
• Subcommittee reports on accessibility, advocacy, and outreach

The Commission approved the previous meeting's minutes and a treasurer's report noting a $2,500 allocation for 2024. Members discussed the status of ABC Grant accessibility installations and planned the 'Walk, Talk, and Roll' event for April 19.

• Approved January Minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's Report (Unanimous)

City Council

The Athens City Council is reviewing several ordinances for first, second, and third readings. Key discussions include city fiber network updates, playground renovations, and temporary changes to parking and noise regulations.

• Third reading for Richland Avenue playground renovation project #368
• Second reading for conveying 83 Columbus Road to the Athens Community Improvement Corporation
• Second reading for East State Street signal improvements project #367
• Ordinance to suspend parking enforcement from December 15, 2024, through January 12, 2025
• Resolution calling for a cease-fire in Israel and occupied Palestine

Athens City Council approved R-02-24, a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Israel and occupied Palestine, by a 4-2 vote with Spjeldnes and Swank opposed. Council also unanimously approved R-01-24 supporting a tentative contract for sewer system improvements with a bid of $1,791,000 from Ohio West Virginia Excavating Company, and passed several ordinances on third reading, including amendments to the city fiber network and authorizing expenditures for the Richland Avenue playground renovation. An ordinance amending the 2024 appropriation ordinance was amended to remove a section pending Municipal Court attendance, then adopted unanimously. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved R-02-24 calling for an immediate ceasefire in Israel and occupied Palestine (4-2, Spjeldnes and Swank opposed)
• Approved R-01-24 supporting tentative award of contract(s) for construction and construction engineering of City Sewer System Improvements Project #330, with bid amount $1,791,000 from Ohio West Virginia Excavating Company (unanimous)
• Approved O-02-24 amending Ordinance 05-22 authorizing a City Fiber Network, Project 347 (unanimous)
• Approved O-03-24 authorizing expenditures for the Richland Avenue Playground Renovation Project #368 (unanimous)
• Approved O-05-24 authorizing engineering design services for the Columbus Road Shared Use Path Project #365 (unanimous)
• Approved O-06-24 authorizing disposal of a vehicle and equipment no longer needed for a municipal purpose (unanimous)
• Approved O-07-24 authorizing unneeded or obsolete municipal personal property to be sold by internet auction (unanimous)
• Approved O-08-24 amending ordinance authorizing wastewater remote site telemetry improvements, Project #339 (unanimous)

Recreation Advisory Board

The board appointed a Chair, Vice-chair, and Secretary for a one-year term. Members discussed aquatic center operating dates, pickleball scheduling, and the potential implementation of para-professionals in 2025 recreation programs.

• Approved June 2023 meeting minutes
• Elected Megan as Chair (motion by Anne, seconded by db)
• Elected Annie as Vice-chair (motion by Anne, seconded by db)
• Elected Stuart as Secretary (motion by Anne, seconded by db)

Municipal Arts Commission

The commission is reviewing several ongoing projects including the Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park and the Athens Community Music and Arts Festival. Members are also discussing mural audits, the Art in City Spaces project, and the selection process for a new Poet Laureate.

• Fire Headquarters-Sculpture Park update
• Athens City Mural audit and enhancement
• Art Outside the Box project
• Athens Community Music and Arts Festival updates
• East State/33 Underpass mural project

The commission approved the content of the City Mural Audit enhancement draft. Members discussed updates to the sculpture park, the 6-level parking garage art RFP, and a proposed poetry anthology.

• Approved City Mural Audit enhancement draft content
• Accepted February 14 meeting minutes

Disabilities Commission Outreach & Communications Committee

The Outreach and Communication Committee is meeting to discuss social media reach and a potential change to the meeting time. The body will also review and approve minutes from the January 9, 2024 meeting.

• Social media reach ideas
• Potential change to meeting time

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities Outreach and Communication Committee approved its January 9, 2024 minutes on a unanimous vote. The committee discussed but did not decide on adding Instagram and other social media outlets, changing its meeting day and time, and publishing more awareness articles. Members agreed to gather information: Hahn will ask city IT's Scott Thompson about allowed platforms and survey members on availability, Burleigh will ask Patty Morris-Whitmer about Berry Conference Room times, and Hahn will contact news outlets. The next meeting is March 12, 2024, 5:30-6:30 p.m. in the Berry Conference Room.

• Approved January 9, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed adding Instagram to the committee's social media, no decision; Hahn to check platform allowability with city IT Scott Thompson
• Discussed moving meetings to an earlier time and different day, no decision; Burleigh to check Berry Conference Room availability with Patty Morris-Whitmer and Hahn to survey availability
• Discussed publishing more awareness articles, no decision; Hahn to contact news outlets
• Adjourned at 6:20 p.m. (unanimous)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider a variance request regarding building setbacks. The board will also handle the disposition of previous meeting minutes and conduct its annual organizational meeting.

• Case #24-01V: Variance for 18.5 ft setback at 17 McGuffey Lane
• Disposition of December 12, 2023 minutes
• Annual Organizational Meeting

City Council

The City Council will meet to consider a resolution regarding the Middle East. The Planning & Development Committee will review the acceptance of bike path and utility easements from the Athens Public Library.

• Resolution regarding the Middle East
• Acceptance of Permanent Bike Path & Right-of-Way Utility Easements from the Athens Public Library
• Then and Now Certificates
• Medical Fund

Athens City Council's February 12, 2024 Committee of the Whole discussed a proposed ceasefire resolution on Gaza but took no vote. The Law Director's office advised against adopting it, citing precedent and that resolutions should address local government matters. Council members were divided, and the item was not placed on a future agenda. Separately, committees reviewed then-and-now bills, a proposed Medical Fund income tax reallocation and $300,000 transfer, and easements for a bike path at the Athens County Public Library.

• No vote taken on proposed Gaza ceasefire resolution; discussed in Committee of the Whole
• Law Director opinion advised Council should not adopt a ceasefire resolution
• Then & Now Certificates reviewed; suspension of rules requested for next Monday to pay bills
• Medical Fund income tax reallocation (2% from Street Fund) requested; no vote
• One-time $300,000 General Fund transfer to Medical Fund requested; no vote
• Permanent bike path and right-of-way easements from Athens County Public Library reviewed; no vote

Historic Preservation Commission

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. No specific projects, ordinances, or decisions are listed for discussion.

Disabilities Commission Accessibility & Advocacy Committee

The Accessibility and Advocacy Committee is meeting to review a draft of goals for 2024. Members will discuss role assignments for initiatives and plan the Walk Talk and Roll event.

• Review of 2024 goals draft
• Planning for Walk Talk and Roll
• Determination of roles for committee initiatives

The committee unanimously approved the January meeting minutes. Members reviewed draft goals for 2024 and planned the 'Walk Talk and Roll' event for April 19, including route details and speaker limits. They also discussed upcoming bus stop accessibility assessments and invited new city planner Meghan Jenkins to future meetings.

• January minutes approved unanimously
• 2024 goals draft reviewed
• Walk Talk and Roll event planned for April 19
• Ben Ziff invited to June meeting
• New city planner Meghan Jenkins invited to lunch and future meetings
• Bus stop inventory assessment discussed (no formal vote recorded)

Community Relations Commission

The Commission will review two separate complaints. The meeting includes a presentation by Peggy Lee of Southeast Ohio Legal Services and her client regarding the first complaint.

• Overview and discussion of first complaint
• Presentation by Southeast Ohio Legal Services
• Overview of second complaint

The Commission reviewed two discrimination complaints to determine next steps. One matter was referred to Lisa Eliason’s office after unsuccessful mediation, and the second was assigned for further inquiry into sought remedies.

• Approved submitting Issue 1 to Lisa Eliason’s office after unsuccessful mediation
• Decided Rachel Siegel will contact the complainant in Issue 2 to determine sought remedies

Shade Tree Commission

The commission is meeting to review tree permit and right-of-way issues, including an investigation on Morris Avenue. Members will also discuss landscape ordinance communication and the maintenance of the tree canopy.

• Morris Avenue investigation update regarding tree permits and right of way
• Discussion on Title 37 Landscape Ordinance communication
• Discussion on committee formation
• Review of spring tree planting opportunities
• Discussion regarding a large ODNR grant

Environment & Sustainability Commission

The commission will meet to discuss an introduction to the body and an overview of the December Progress Report. Members will also receive an update on the Council of Governments Proposal.

• Overview of December Progress Report
• Update on the Council of Governments Proposal

The Environment & Sustainability Commission approved a resolution supporting the creation of a Council of Governments (COG) to manage solid waste collection and diversion. The commission also approved the previous meeting's minutes.

• Approved resolution supporting the creation of a Council of Governments for solid waste collection, processing, and diversion
• Approved previous meeting minutes

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several ordinances for second and first readings. These include projects related to city fiber, playground renovations, and street improvements.

• Richland Avenue Playground Renovation Project #368
• Columbus Road Shared Use Path Project #365 engineering design services
• East State Street Signal Improvements Project #367
• Conveyance of city-owned property at 83 Columbus Road to the Athens Community Improvement Corporation
• Annual purchase of water softening salt for the water treatment plant

City Council unanimously voted to table an ordinance regarding smoking and drug-free policies in parks to further study hemp and cannabis variants. The council also unanimously approved a request for a hearing in the county seat regarding MacShack permits. Several ordinances were introduced for first and second readings, but no final votes on those items were recorded.

• Tabled Ordinance 0-04-24 regarding parks and nature preserve smoking/drug policies (Unanimous)
• Approved request for a hearing in the County seat regarding MacShack permits (Unanimous)
• Approved 15-minute extension for public commentary (Unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Athens Planning Commission met on January 25, 2024, to conduct routine administrative tasks, including the administration of an oath to new member Christine Knisely and the election of officers. The agenda explicitly states there were no cases to review. The meeting also included reports from the Code Enforcement Office and Planning Office, as well as a review of 2024 goals.

• Administration of oath to new member Christine Knisely
• Election of officers
• Review of 2024 Planning Commission Goals
• Report from Code Enforcement Office (David Riggs)
• Report from Planning Office

The Athens City Planning Commission elected John Kotowski as Chair and Austin Phillips as Vice-Chair for 2024. The commission reviewed its 2024 goals, which include studying tobacco retailer limits and Stimson Avenue redevelopment, but did not vote to approve the final list. A rezoning request from Dan Deluca was discussed as a future item, but no decision was made.

• John Kotowski elected 2024 Chair (3-0)
• Austin Phillips elected 2024 Vice-Chair (3-0)
• November 2, 2023 minutes approved (4-0)
• 2024 goals list discussed but not voted on
• Dan Deluca rezoning request discussed for future review
• No cases heard or decided

City Council

The Athens City Council will meet to discuss and potentially act on several financial items, including appropriations, interfund transfers, and a salt purchase. They will also review the Disabilities Commission's annual report and consider a deed transfer for 83 Columbus Road.

• Appropriation of $20,432.70 to ARPA Fund for capital improvements and fund closeout
• Interfund transfers including $75,000 to Cemetery Fund and $161,000 to Parking Garage Debt Fund
• Authorize expenditure of $184,860 for 2024 Water Softening Salt
• Deed transfer for 83 Columbus Road to CIC
• Special events street closure, vending, and noise discussion

City committees discussed several financial transfers and property deeds, but no final votes were recorded in these minutes. Items including water softening salt expenditures and a deed transfer for 83 Columbus Road were referred to the full City Council for future action.

• Tabled $184,860 water softening salt expenditure for City Council agenda
• Tabled $115,000 General Fund increase for Court personnel pending Judge's attendance
• Tabled $20,432.70 ARPA Fund appropriation for City Council agenda
• Tabled interfund transfers including $75,000 to Cemetery Fund and $161,000 to Parking Garage Debt Fund
• Tabled deed transfer of 83 Columbus Road to the Community Improvement Corporation (CIC)

Recreation Advisory Board

The board will vote to appoint a Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary for 2024. Members will also discuss board recruitment and adaptive recreational opportunities in collaboration with OU PT.

• Vote to fill 2024 officer positions: Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary
• Discussion on board member recruitment to fill vacancies
• Collaboration with OU PT regarding adaptive recreational opportunities
• Review of letter from Jenna Keiffer regarding 2024 goals and actions

Disabilities Commission

The Athens Disabilities Commission will meet to review a HAPCAP Fair Housing presentation and plan the Walk, Talk, and Roll event. The body will also discuss commission and committee goals.

• HAPCAP Fair Housing Presentation
• Walk, Talk, and Roll Planning
• Commission and Committee Goals
• Committee Membership List

The Commission approved the November meeting minutes and a 2024 budget of $2,500. Members discussed planning for the Walk, Talk, and Roll event and established goals for accessibility, advocacy, and outreach.

• Approved November meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's report for $2,500 2024 funding (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several ordinances for first reading regarding city infrastructure and public services. These include sewer system improvements, fiber network updates, and park renovations.

• Ordinance 0-01-24: Easement and right-of-way agreement with Ohio Power Company for the Stimson Avenue fire station
• Ordinance 0-03-24: Expenditures for the Richland Avenue playground renovation project #368
• Ordinance 0-05-24: Engineering design services for the Columbus Road shared use path project #365
• Ordinance 0-10-24 and Resolution R-01-24: Construction contracts for city sewer system improvements project #330
• Ordinance 0-09-24: Application for a Water Pollution Control Loan Fund (WPCLF) agreement

Council approved an updated easement for electrical service to the new fire station and authorized a Water Pollution Control Loan Fund agreement. A sewer system improvement project was tabled after the only bid received exceeded the probable cost by 20%.

• Approved updated easement for fire station electrical service (unanimous)
• Approved Water Pollution Control Loan Fund agreement application (unanimous)
• Tabled City Sewer System Improvements Project #330 due to high bid (unanimous)
• Tabled Resolution R-01-24 regarding sewer system contracts (unanimous)

Disabilities Commission Accessibility & Advocacy Committee

The Accessibility and Advocacy Committee is meeting to review 2023 goals and establish objectives for 2024. The committee will also determine roles for initiatives and set a date for the Walk Talk and Roll event.

• Review of 2023 goals draft
• Establishment of 2024 Committee Goals
• Scheduling of Walk Talk and Roll
• Review of tracking spreadsheet

The Accessibility and Advocacy Committee approved its November minutes unanimously and discussed several accessibility initiatives. The committee tabled its ACCD tracking spreadsheet until Dianne returns, and plans to add the Dairy Lane/Richland crosswalk to it. Members discussed inviting a new City Planner to a future meeting and noted the City ADA Transition Plan will likely get more attention once that position is filled. The committee also discussed a planned one-mile full access path on Columbus Road, a matching grant program, and a proposed Walk, Talk and Roll event on April 19.

• Approved November minutes unanimously
• Tabled ACCD tracking spreadsheet until Dianne returns
• Agreed to add Dairy Lane/Richland crosswalk to tracking spreadsheet
• Committee recommending Walk, Talk and Roll event on 4/19 noon-2pm
• Davey to email Saleh inviting him to February meeting
• Rob to email Davey contact info for new City Planner
• Rob to invite HAPCAP's Ben Ziff to a spring meeting
• Adjourned unanimously at 1:00pm

Community Relations Commission

The commission is meeting to discuss leadership transitions and membership. The body will also review support for the City of Athens DIEA Coordinator and plan for the 2024 calendar year.

• Support and resources for Lacey Rogers, City of Athens DIEA Coordinator
• Student recruitment for AMS and AHS anti-racism work
• MLK breakfast
• 2024 planning
• February and March meeting dates

The Athens Community Relations Commission approved its November meeting notes and moved to have Rachel Siegel and Rebecca Robison-Miller serve as co-chairs, with John Schmieding moving that they take the chair and vice chair roles starting at the February meeting. Members discussed how to support Lacey Rogers as City of Athens DEI & A Coordinator, including making discrimination reporting more accessible and routing reports directly to her. Membership updates included Jay Mattson not joining, Julie Goodman as a potential new member, and the city joining the Strong Cities Network. Several items, including 2024 planning and LGBTQ+ programming, were deferred to the February meeting.

• Approved November meeting notes (motion by Raymie, seconded by Micah)
• Moved that Rachel and Rebecca take on chair and vice chair roles as of the February meeting (motion by John, seconded by Raymie)
• Agreed to send an email exploring changes to how discrimination reports are routed to Lacey Rogers
• Deferred 2024 planning, COA video, student recruitment, and LGBTQ+ programming to the February meeting

Municipal Arts Commission

The commission is meeting to discuss updates on public art installations and city murals. Members will review progress on the Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park and the Art Outside the Box project. The meeting includes a recap of discussions with Mayor Patterson regarding art at the Armory and City Hall.

• Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park update
• Athens City Mural audit and enhancement
• Art Outside the Box project
• Art at the Armory drawing plans
• Canvus benches

The Athens Municipal Arts Commission approved the November 2023 meeting minutes after minor spelling corrections. They tabled a request to form an ad hoc committee for an October art opening until the next month. The commission also discussed potential date swaps for two major festivals and reviewed updates on public art projects, including the Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park and city murals.

• Approved November 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled formation of ad hoc committee for art opening
• Agreed to create pamphlet for Athens City Mural audit
• Confirmed payment schedule for Fire Headquarters Sculpture Park artists
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Disabilities Commission Outreach & Communications Committee

The Outreach and Communication Committee is meeting to debrief the Athena Award and review current, planned, and potential committee work. The body will also approve minutes from the October 10, 2023 meeting.

• Athena Award debrief
• Review of standing committee work
• Planning for future committee work

The committee approved the minutes from the October 10, 2023 meeting. Members discussed current standing work, planned calendar checks, and potential future outreach to community members with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

• Approved October 10, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is meeting to review infrastructure projects and updates to city titles. Discussions include sewer system improvements and the city fiber network. The body will also consider amendments regarding recreational marijuana.

• City Sewer System Improvements, Project #330 contract award and appropriation
• Amendments to ACC Titles 9 and 13 regarding recreational marijuana
• Richland Avenue Playground Renovation, Project #368
• Columbus Road Shared Use Path, Project #365 engineering design funding
• City Fiber Network, Project #347 amendment

Multiple committees met to discuss infrastructure projects and legislative updates. No final votes were recorded in these committee sessions, but several items were referred to the full City Council agenda for future action.

• Referred $103,000 ARPA fund request for City Fiber Network Phase II to City Council
• Referred $170,000 Richland Avenue Playground Renovation to City Council
• Referred proposed recreational marijuana ban in parks to City Council
• Referred $1.73 million sewer system improvement project (Project #330) to City Council
• Referred $75,000 wastewater telemetry increase to City Council
• Referred $160,000 Columbus Road Shared Use Path engineering funds to City Council
• Referred fire department equipment trade and bus disposal to City Council
• Discussed forming a Council of Governments (COG) for regional waste management

City Council

The council is meeting to swear in members and appoint leadership roles, including the Clerk of Council and President Pro Tem. The body will also designate Mayor Patterson to two Buckeye Hills regional council positions.

• Swearing-in ceremony for City Council
• Appointment of Clerk of Council
• Selection of President Pro Tem and Acting Pro Tem
• Designation of Mayor Patterson to Buckeye Hills Regional Council Executive Committee (2024-2025)
• Appointment of Mayor Patterson to Buckeye Hills General Policy Council (2024-2025)

City Council appointed its Clerk of Council, President Pro Tem, Acting President Pro Tem, and Parliamentarian. The council also designated Mayor Patterson to two regional council positions and approved minutes from December 2023.

• Appointed Debra Walker as Clerk of Council (unanimous)
• Appointed Jeff Risner as President Pro Tem (unanimous)
• Appointed Micah McCarey as Acting President Pro Tem (unanimous)
• Designated Lisa Eliason as Parliamentarian (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Dec 4, Dec 11, and Dec 18, 2023 (unanimous)
• Designated Mayor Patterson to 2024-2025 Buckeye Hills Regional Council Executive Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Mayor Patterson to Buckeye Hills General Policy Council (unanimous)