Bowling Green public meetings in 2025

Tree Commission

The Tree Commission is reviewing staff reports on grant progress and tree plantings. Members are discussing the potential for a micro forests project and the creation of a historic tree map and database. The city is also considering recommendations for a subdivision code update.

• USDA-IRA Urban and Community Canopy Grant progress
• Fall planting of 62 new/replacement trees, 19 village project trees, 80 S Main project trees, and 38 BG Canopy Tree Project trees
• Proposed micro forests project at the Arboretum or old BGSU Golf Course
• Development of a historic/notable tree map and database with the GIS department
• Pending recommendations for subdivision code updates

The commission approved the October 21, 2025 minutes by a 6‑0 vote and approved the 2026 budget. Katelyn Elliott was noted as newly elected to City Council and will vacate her Tree Commission seat. The commission agreed to revisit the micro‑forest project in 2026 and assigned tasks such as a walk‑through of arboretum signage and creating a resident portal for tree submissions.

• Approved October 21, 2025 minutes (6-0 vote)
• Approved 2026 budget (vote not recorded)
• Recorded Katelyn Elliott's election to City Council and her upcoming vacancy on the Tree Commission
• Decided to revisit the micro‑forest project in 2026
• Requested public ideas for 2026 educational events
• Assigned Dan to conduct a walk‑through of Urban Forest Arboretum signage issues
• Planned development of a resident portal for tree specimen submissions
• Set deadline to submit comments on Tree Ordinance update by Nov 3

City Council

The council adopted Ordinance #9334 to provide supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2025 and Ordinance #9328 for appropriations for fiscal year 2026. It also approved Ordinance #9330 amending employment policies, Ordinance #9326 with an emergency clause for a promotional contract, and Ordinance #9327 authorizing disposal of surplus equipment. Resolutions #3896, #3897 and #3898 were adopted, authorizing a public defender agreement renewal, establishing new funds, and permitting a Community Development Block Grant application. All votes were unanimous (7‑0).

• Adopted Ordinance #9334 (supplemental FY2025 appropriations) – adopted (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #9328 (FY2026 appropriations) – adopted (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #9330 (amended employment policies) – adopted (7-0)
• Adopted emergency clause for Ordinance #9326 (promotion contract) – adopted (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #9327 (equipment disposal authority) – adopted (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution #3896 (renew Wood County Public Defender agreement) – adopted (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution #3897 (established new funds) – adopted (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution #3898 (authorizing CDBG application) – adopted (7-0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will approve the minutes from its November 12, 2025 meeting. It will consider a variance request by Justin Herman to keep an existing fence that exceeds the 6‑foot height limit by about 14 inches at 904 Country Club Drive. The board will also note a lobby visitation.

• Approval of minutes from the November 12, 2025 meeting
• Variance request by Justin Herman for a 6‑ft fence at 904 Country Club Drive that is ~14 inches over the height limit
• Lobby visitation

Justin Herman requested a variance to keep an existing fence that exceeds the 6‑ft height limit. The board moved and seconded the variance request. The motion carried unanimously, granting the variance.

• Approved variance for fence at 904 Country Club Drive (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Bowling Green Planning Commission will meet to approve minutes from August 2025, elect an officer to the Zoning Board of Appeals, and consider two rezoning requests and one subdivision waiver.

• Rezone 4.979 acres on West Newton Road from IE to Institutional zoning
• Rezone 5.8 acres at 1168 North Main Street from Commercial to IE zoning
• Subdivision waiver for 523-531 West Gypsy Lane Road
• Approval of August 6, 2025 Planning Commission minutes
• Election of officer to the Zoning Board of Appeals

The commission elected Bob McOmber as the city’s representative to the Zoning Board of Appeals by unanimous voice vote. It approved three waivers needed for a subdivision on West Gypsy Lane Road with a 7‑0 vote. Several variance requests were considered: a garage addition was denied, fence variances were split between approvals and denials, a parking expansion and an accessory structure were approved, and a sign‑refacing request was denied.

• Elected Bob McOmber as Zoning Board of Appeals representative (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved all three waivers for Subdivision Not Requiring a Plat on West Gypsy Lane Rd (7-0)
• Denied Matthew Grimes' 30 ft × 24 ft garage addition variance (rear‑yard setback)
• Approved Scott & Michelle Roehl's 6‑ft fence variance (with ZBA conditions)
• Denied Benjamin Maxwell's 6‑ft front‑yard fence variance
• Approved Brandon Flick's 13 ft × 21 ft front parking expansion variance
• Denied New Signs Ohio LLC's sign‑refacing variance for Jersey Mike’s and Wingstop
• Approved Robin Veitch's accessory structure variance (granted as amended, pylon sign omitted)

City Council

The council approved the minutes from the November 17 meeting. It suspended the rules to allow a second and third reading of Ordinance #9329 and then adopted that ordinance, which provides supplemental and amending appropriations for the city’s 2025 fiscal year. Several other ordinances and resolutions were read for first or second readings but were not adopted at this meeting.

• Approved November 17 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Suspended rules to permit second/third readings of Ordinance #9329 (7 yes votes)
• Adopted Ordinance #9329 supplemental FY 2025 appropriations (7 yes votes)
• First reading of Ordinance #9330 authorizing Utilities Director contracts with Novotx
• First reading of Ordinance #9332 accepting deed from Bowling Green Economic Development
• First reading of Ordinance #9333 dedicating perpetual highway easement
• Second reading of Resolution #3898 authorizing mayor to apply for Community Development Block Grant

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will approve the minutes from its October 28, 2025 meeting and address routine administrative items. It will discuss the Certificates of Appropriateness procedure and the strategic plan. The commission will review local historic designations, focusing on the former South Main School at 437 South Main Street and other possible sites. It will also note upcoming community events and Friends of the HPC activities.

• Approval of minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting
• Discussion of Certificates of Appropriateness (COA) procedure
• Consideration of former South Main School (437 South Main Street) for historic designation
• Review of other possible historic sites: Old Windmill, Hanna House, Corner Grill, Cla‑Zel Theater, Lincoln House
• Scheduling of Friends of the HPC events at 104 S. Main St., 163 S. Main St., and 304 S. Church St.

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting, as amended. The next regular meeting was set for January 27, 2026 after the December meeting was cancelled. Members discussed the Certificate of Appropriateness process for 219 N. Maple St., which is scheduled for auction in December, and agreed to review the latest COA form at the January meeting.

• Approved October 28, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for Jan 27, 2026 (December meeting cancelled)

Board of Public Utilities

The Board of Public Utilities is deciding on the 2026 Utilities Budget and a wastewater rate adjustment to be implemented January 1, 2026. The board is also considering property acquisition and a professional services contract for asset management.

• Approval of the 2026 Utilities Budget
• Wastewater rate adjustment reflecting approximately a 7% increase in revenue
• Re-acquisition of approximately 5.36 acres in the Woodbridge Business Park from BGED
• Contract with Novotx for Elements XS professional services totaling $87,500
• Authorization for the Utilities Director to enter contracts exceeding $75,000 for 2026 budget purposes

The Board of Public Utilities unanimously approved the minutes from the October 13, 2025 meeting. It also approved the 2026 utilities budget, the wastewater rate schedule effective Jan. 1, 2026, the acquisition of about 5.36 acres in Woodbridge Business Park, and a contract with Novotx for professional services. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved October 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Utilities Budget (Resolution 11-2025-01) (unanimous)
• Approved Wastewater Rate Schedule (Resolution 11-2025-02) (unanimous)
• Approved acquisition of ~5.36 acres in Woodbridge Business Park (Resolution 11-2025-03) (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Novotx for Elements XS professional services (Resolution 11-2025-04) (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:21 p.m. (unanimous)

City Council

The council adopted several ordinances and a resolution during the November 17 meeting. All items were approved by unanimous roll‑call votes of the seven council members present. An executive session was held to discuss personnel compensation with no action taken. The meeting was adjourned at 8:17 p.m.

• Ordinance #9325 adopted (unanimous)
• Resolution #3895 adopted (unanimous)
• Ordinance #9320 adopted (unanimous)
• Ordinance #9321 adopted (unanimous)
• Ordinance #9322 adopted (unanimous)
• Ordinance #9288 adopted (unanimous)
• Ordinance #9289 adopted (unanimous)
• Ordinance #9290 adopted (unanimous)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board will approve the minutes from the September 10, 2025 meeting. It will then discuss three variance applications: a parking‑area expansion for Brandon Flick at 887 West Wooster Street; a sign refacing request for Jersey Mike’s and Wingstop at 1502 East Wooster Street; and a car‑port accessory structure request for Robin Veitch at 231 South Prospect Street. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Variance request by Brandon Flick (887 West Wooster St) for a 13 ft × 21 ft front parking expansion not conforming to Section 150.72 Off‑Street Parking.
• Variance request by New Signs Ohio LLC for Jersey Mike’s and Wingstop (1502 East Wooster St) to reface an 8 ft × 8 ft pylon sign, exceeding the two‑sign limit per business.
• Variance request by Robin Veitch (231 South Prospect St) for a 12 ft × 22 ft car‑port accessory structure encroaching required setbacks.
• Approval of minutes from the September 10, 2025 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting.

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved the variance request for New Signs Ohio LLC to reface signs at 1502 East Wooster Street. It also approved Brandon Flick's request to expand his front parking area. The Board denied Robin Veitch's request for a car‑port accessory structure. Vote counts were recorded for each motion.

• Approved New Signs Ohio LLC sign variance (6-1)
• Approved Brandon Flick parking expansion variance (6-0)
• Denied Robin Veitch car‑port variance (3-3)

Board of Public Utilities

The Board of Public Utilities and City Council will review the Municipal Utilities 2026 Annual Budget presentation. The meeting will cover requests for the Water and Sewer Capital Improvement Fund, the Utilities Revenue Funds, and the Utilities Capital Reserve Funds. A decision on the budgets is anticipated for a later meeting on November 24.

• Presentation of the 2026 Municipal Utilities Annual Budget
• Review of Water and Sewer Capital Improvement Fund requests
• Review of Utilities Revenue Funds requests
• Review of Utilities Capital Reserve Funds requests
• Delay in publishing the budget document due to software formatting issues

City Council

The council approved Ordinance #9324, authorizing the mayor to appropriate $50,000 for emergency food services for residents, with a unanimous vote. It also adopted Resolution #3894 to sell surplus city property via internet auction and passed several ordinances on police tow rates and low‑speed micromobility devices. A proposed amendment to tow rates in Ordinance #9316 was rejected.

• Adopted Ordinance #9324 authorizing $50,000 emergency food services (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution #3894 to sell surplus city property via internet auction (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #9316 on police tow list and tow charge rates (6-1)
• Adopted Ordinance #9317 establishing low‑speed micromobility rental program (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #9318 amending low‑speed micromobility device regulations (7-0)
• Amendment to Ordinance #9316 tow rates defeated (2-5)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will meet to discuss local designations for buildings of interest. The agenda includes reviews of the Certificates of Appropriateness procedure and the commission's strategic plan.

• Discussion of former South Main School (437 South Main Street) for local designation
• Review of other possible sites: Old Windmill, Hanna House, Corner Grill, ClaZel Theater, and Lincoln House
• Discussion of historical plaques
• Review of Certificates of Appropriateness (COA) procedure
• Update on the CLG Grant

The commission approved the minutes from the September 23, 2025 meeting with a unanimous vote. No other formal actions, approvals, or denials were recorded; the remainder of the agenda consisted of discussions, project updates, and planning for future activities.

• Approved September 23, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Tree Commission

The commission will discuss ongoing USDA-IRA Urban and Community Canopy Grant activities and fall planting orders. Staff will report on staffing changes, training, and the upcoming Tree City USA application. New business includes forming a historic tree mapping group and planning a public education event. Old business covers a request for recommendations on a tree ordinance update and subdivision code revisions.

• USDA-IRA Urban and Community Canopy Grant continuation
• Fall planting order: 62 new/replacements, 19 village project replacements, 80 S Main project, 38 BG Canopy Tree Project, 15 downtown shrub replacements
• Tree ordinance update – request for public recommendations by Nov 3
• Create historic/notable tree map group with GIS department and resident application
• Start Tree City USA application in early November

The commission approved the meeting minutes unanimously (6‑0 vote). The commission decided not to hold a November meeting and set the next meeting for December 16, 2025. The commission also created a historic/notable tree map committee led by Anne Bullerjahn and Katelyn Elliott.

• Approved meeting minutes (6-0 vote)
• Cancelled November meeting; next meeting scheduled for Dec 16, 2025
• Formed historic/notable tree map committee led by Anne Bullerjahn and Katelyn Elliott

City Council

The council adopted Ordinance #9319 to provide supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2025. It also adopted Resolution #3891 authorizing the tax levies set by the Budget Commission, Resolution #3892 establishing a cybersecurity program, and Resolution #3893 authorizing ODOT grant applications. The council suspended rules to allow Ordinance #9319 its second and third readings and adjourned the meeting at 7:38 p.m.

• Adopted Ordinance #9319 supplemental appropriations (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution #3891 authorizing tax levies (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution #3892 cybersecurity program (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution #3893 ODOT grant application authorization (7-0)
• Suspended rules to permit Ordinance #9319 second and third readings (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved minutes of the Oct 6, 2025 meeting (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:38 p.m. (unanimous voice vote)

Board of Public Utilities

The Bowling Green Board of Public Utilities will approve minutes from the August 11, 2025 meeting and hear reports from the Utilities Director and Assistant Director. It will vote on several resolutions, including a contract to dispose of lime sludge at the water treatment plant, contracts for 2026 inventory, insurance and scrap sales, supplemental appropriations for information technology and purchased power, and multiple utility easements. Each resolution also requests concurrence from the City Council.

• Resolution 10-2025-01: Contract extension up to two years for lime sludge disposal services at the Water Treatment Plant
• Resolution 10-2025-02: Contracts for 2026 annual inventory, underground/overhead line insurance, and sale of scrap material (expected revenue > $1,000)
• Resolution 10-2025-03: Supplemental IT appropriation – $34,920 from Electric Revenue Fund, $11,640 from Water Revenue Fund, $11,640 from Sewer Revenue Fund
• Resolution 10-2025-04: Supplemental purchased power appropriation – $201,680 Residential, $99,440 Commercial, $302,960 Industrial, $195,920 Large Power (total $800,000)
• Resolution 10-2025-05: Acceptance of a utility easement for municipal waterline at 1150 Haskins Road

Board of Public Utilities

The Board of Public Utilities approved the August 11, 2025 meeting minutes by voice vote. It then authorized contracts for lime‑sludge disposal, 2026 inventory and insurance, and supplemental appropriations for IT and purchased power, all by unanimous roll‑call vote. The Board also approved five separate utility easements, each passing unanimously.

• Approved Resolution 10-2025-01 for Lime Sludge Disposal Services (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved Resolution 10-2025-02 for 2026 inventory, line insurance, and scrap sale contracts (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved Resolution 10-2025-03 for supplemental IT appropriation (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved Resolution 10-2025-04 for supplemental purchased‑power appropriation (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved Resolution 10-2025-05 to accept easement from Northwestern Ohio Tractor Pullers Association (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved Resolution 10-2025-06 to accept temporary and permanent easements from Bowling Green Board of Education (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved Resolution 10-2025-07 to accept easement from Lock‑It‑Up LLC (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved Resolution 10-2025-08 to accept easement from Board of Trustees of Middleton Township (unanimous roll‑call)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss local designations for the former South Main School and several other potential sites. The body will also review the strategic plan and upcoming educational projects.

• Discussion of local designation for Former South Main School (437 South Main Street)
• Review of other possible sites: Old Windmill, Hanna House, Corner Grill, ClaZel Theater, and Lincoln House
• Discussion regarding historical plaques
• Review of the Strategic Plan
• Update on CLG Grant

The commission approved the minutes from the August 26, 2025 meeting, noting they were amended. Members set the next commission meeting for October 28, 2025. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved minutes of August 26, 2025 meeting (as amended)
• Scheduled next meeting for October 28, 2025

Tree Commission

The Bowling Green Tree Commission will confirm minutes, review fall planting plans, and discuss the 2026 budget. Staff will report on pruning, watering, and tree removals. The commission will also review a tree care pamphlet and an update to the tree ordinance.

• USDA-IRA Urban and Community Canopy Grant- planning fall plantings
• 2026 budget discussion
• Tree ordinance update- updates to be completed by Urban Forester
• City tree care pamphlet/door hanger review
• Tree topping PR release- complete

City Council

The council approved the September 2 meeting minutes by unanimous voice vote. Ordinance #9308 on zoning code changes was tabled pending a public hearing. Ordinance #9309 accepting an easement from Pheasant Farms Homeowners Association was adopted. Ordinance #9303 was defeated.

• Approved September 2 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Tabled Ordinance #9308 (zoning code amendment) – 7 yes votes
• Adopted Ordinance #9309 easement for Pheasant Farms – 6 yes, 0 no, 1 abstain
• Defeated Ordinance #9303 – 0 yes, 7 no

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Bowling Green Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to approve minutes from August 13 and consider three variance requests regarding fence heights and a parking pad expansion. The meeting will be held at the City Administrative Services Building.

• Approval of August 13, 2025 meeting minutes
• Variance for 13x21 foot parking pad expansion at 887 West Wooster Street
• Variance for 6 foot fence extending past front elevation at 985 West Wooster Street
• Variance for 6 foot fence in front yard at 922 Mourning Dove Lane
• Meeting location: City Administrative Services Building, 305 North Main Street

The Board approved a variance for Brandon Flick to expand his front parking area despite a 3‑4 vote split. It also approved a variance for Scott and Michelle Roehl’s fence, adding a condition to plant arborvitae, by a 6‑1 vote. No decision was recorded for Benjamin Maxwell’s fence request. The minutes of the August 13, 2025 meeting were approved as circulated.

• Granted variance for Brandon Flick parking expansion (Yes 3, No 4)
• Granted variance for Scott & Michelle Roehl fence with arborvitae planting condition (Yes 6, No 1)
• Approved August 13, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous approval)
• No decision recorded for Benjamin Maxwell fence variance request

City Council

The Bowling Green City Council approved a supplemental appropriations ordinance for FY 2025, authorized the mayor to acquire property on Newton Road, renewed a temporary reduction of residential building permit fees, and approved contracts for a new roof at the community center. The council also adopted emergency measures for the Brim Road and Bishop Road roundabout project and a pedestrian hybrid beacon at West Gypsy Lane, while tabling a micromobility ordinance until September 15. All actions were voted on by the six present members.

• Ordinance #9311 (budget appropriations) adopted – yes votes: Hollenbaugh, Musgrave, O'Dorisio, Phipps, Robinette, Herald
• Ordinance #9312 (gift/sale agreement for Newton Road property) adopted – yes votes: Hollenbaugh, Musgrave, O'Dorisio, Phipps, Robinette, Herald
• Ordinance #9313 (temporary reduction of residential building permit fees) adopted – yes votes: Hollenbaugh, Musgrave, O'Dorisio, Phipps, Robinette, Herald
• Ordinance #9314 (fluid‑applied membrane roof contract for Community Center) adopted – yes votes: Hollenbaugh, Musgrave, O'Dorisio, Phipps, Robinette, Herald
• Ordinance #9306 (roundabout project emergency clause and adoption) adopted – yes votes: Phipps, Robinette, Herald, Hollenbaugh, Musgrave, O'Dorisio
• Ordinance #9307 (pedestrian hybrid beacon emergency clause and adoption) adopted – yes votes: Herald, Hollenbaugh, Musgrave, O'Dorisio, Phipps, Robinette
• Ordinance #9303 (micromobility code amendment) tabled until Sep 15 – yes votes: Robinette, Herald, Hollenbaugh, Musgrave, Phipps; no vote: O'Dorisio
• Ordinance #9297 (previously tabled ordinance) adopted – yes votes: Herald, Hollenbaugh, Musgrave, O'Dorisio, Phipps, Robinette

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will meet to approve minutes, elect officers, and discuss designating local buildings of interest. The agenda also includes updates on public relations and educational projects.

• Approval of May 27, 2025 minutes
• Election of Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and Secretary
• Discussion on designating Former South Main School and other sites
• Review of public relations and educational projects
• Review of CLG Grant

The commission approved the local historic designation for 416 West Wooster. It also adopted the plaque design created by Vice‑Chair Wil Roudebush. Officers were appointed unanimously: John Sampen as Chair, Wil Roudebush as Vice‑Chair, and Geoff Howes as Secretary. The meeting minutes from May 27, 2025 were approved.

• Approved minutes of May 27, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Appointed John Sampen as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Appointed Wil Roudebush as Vice‑Chairperson (unanimous)
• Appointed Geoff Howes as Secretary (unanimous)
• Adopted Roudebush's historical plaque design
• Approved local designation of 416 West Wooster
• Decided to use plaque design for pricing calls
• Sampen will invite Hallie Williams to the next meeting

Tree Commission

The Tree Commission is discussing the planning of fall plantings for the USDA-IRA Urban and Community Canopy Grant. The body is also reviewing updates to the tree ordinance being developed by the Urban Forester and city staff.

• USDA-IRA Urban and Community Canopy Grant fall planting planning
• Tree ordinance updates by Urban Forester and city staff
• Public relations release on tree topping
• Updated GIS City Call log for Urban Forestry requests

The Bowling Green Tree Commission met on August 19, 2025. The commission approved the July 15, 2025 minutes by a unanimous 6‑0 vote. No other actions were decided; staff reports on grants, pest sightings, and a pending ordinance update were noted. The meeting adjourned at 4:32 p.m.

• Approved July 15, 2025 minutes (6-0)

City Council

The Bowling Green City Council adopted several measures, including the annexation of approximately 67.692 acres along Bishop Road. It also approved a contract with ODOT for congestion‑mitigation funds, supplemental appropriations for the 2025 fiscal year, and an emergency plan for the Central Business Special Improvement District. Additional ordinances authorizing vehicle sales and scheduling a public hearing on zoning changes were also adopted.

• Adopted Resolution #3889 approving Assessment Equalization Board report (6‑0 unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution #3890 authorizing ODOT application and contract for East Wooster & Dunbridge intersection (6‑0 unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #9304 supplemental appropriations for FY 2025 (6‑0 unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #9305 emergency clause and plan for expanded Central Business Special Improvement District (6‑0 unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #9295 authorizing sale of unneeded municipal vehicles (6‑0 unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #9296 annexing ~67.7 acres along Bishop Road (6‑0 unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for Ordinance #9308 (zoning code amendment) on Oct 6 at 6:30 p.m.

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to consider two variance requests. One involves a residential garage addition and the other concerns multiple signage installations for a commercial business.

• Variance request for Matthew Grimes at 707 North Main Street for a 30x24 foot garage addition encroaching 14 feet into the rear yard setback
• Variance request for QuikTrip at 120 Freeway Court for an 80-foot tall pylon sign and a 22-foot tall truck scale sign
• Variance request for QuikTrip at 120 Freeway Court for a 184 square foot wall sign and a 14 square foot wayfinding sign
• Variance request for QuikTrip at 120 Freeway Court to exceed the maximum number of signs (9 requested vs 3 allowed) and total signage area (653 square feet requested vs 336 allowed)

The Board of Zoning Appeals denied Matthew Grimes' variance request for a 30‑by‑24‑foot addition that would encroach the rear‑yard setback, with a 2‑3 vote. The Board approved, as amended, Ali Bukhres' QuikTrip signage variance at 120 Freeway Court, removing the 80‑foot pylon sign, with a 5‑0 vote.

• Denied Matthew Grimes rear‑yard setback variance (2‑3 vote)
• Approved QuikTrip signage variance amended to omit 80‑ft pylon sign (5‑0 vote)

Board of Public Utilities

The Board of Public Utilities is meeting to discuss funding for infrastructure repairs and a specific water service agreement. The body is reviewing supplemental appropriations for water and wastewater systems and a water tap agreement for a property on Carter Road.

• Resolution 08-2025-01: Supplemental appropriation of $650,000 from Water Capital Reserve Fund and $50,000 from Sewer Revenue Fund
• Funding for meter/MTU replacements and replacement pumps at South Maple Street Stormwater Pump Station
• Resolution 08-2025-02: Accommodation Water Tap Agreement for Troy and Kelly Carpenter at 15605 Carter Road

The Board of Public Utilities unanimously approved the minutes from the July 28, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved Resolution 08-2025-01 for a supplemental appropriation for the Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection Division, and Resolution 08-2025-02 authorizing an Accommodation Water Tap Agreement for 15605 Carter Road. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved July 28, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Resolution 08-2025-01 supplemental appropriation for water division (unanimous roll call)
• Approved Resolution 08-2025-02 water tap agreement for 15605 Carter Road (unanimous roll call)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:21 p.m. (unanimous voice vote)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved sending the proposed text amendments that would add “Tobacco and Vape Stores” to Chapter 150 of the zoning code to the City Council for further consideration. The motion was moved by Mr. McOmber, seconded by Ms. Ennis, and received affirmative votes from all nine members present. The minutes from the July 2, 2025 meeting were also approved as distributed. No public comments were received on the amendment.

• Approved sending “Tobacco and Vape Stores” zoning amendment to City Council (yes votes: Broadwell, Denbow, Ennis, McOmber, Phillips, Remeis, Stalter, Waddle, Bhati)
• Approved July 2, 2025 meeting minutes as distributed

City Council

The council approved the July 21, 2025 meeting minutes, confirmed two commission appointments, and adopted several ordinances and resolutions, including the Assessment Equalization Board, supplemental appropriations for FY 2025, the Active Transportation & Complete Streets Policy, and an easement for 811 S. Dunbridge Road. All actions passed with unanimous or unanimous‑voice votes.

• Approved July 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Appointed Debbie Thompson to Sidewalk Commission (unanimous voice vote)
• Appointed So Shaheen to Human Relations Commission (unanimous voice vote)
• Adopted Resolution #3887 appointing Assessment Equalization Board (7‑yes votes)
• Adopted Ordinance #9298 supplemental appropriations for FY 2025 (7‑yes votes)
• Adopted Resolution #3886 Active Transportation & Complete Streets Policy (7‑yes votes)
• Adopted Ordinance #9293 accepting easement for 811 S. Dunbridge Road (7‑yes votes)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Board of Public Utilities

The Board unanimously approved the minutes from the June 23, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved Resolution 07-2025-01 authorizing the Utilities Director to enter into the Efficiency Smart Program agreement with AMP, Inc., and Resolution 07-2025-02 authorizing the Make Ready Cost Concurrence Agreement with Buckeye Broadband. The meeting was adjourned at 5:35 p.m. by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved June 23, 2025 minutes (voice vote, unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 07-2025-01 for Efficiency Smart Program with AMP, Inc. (roll call, unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 07-2025-02 for Buckeye Broadband Make Ready Cost Concurrence Agreement (roll call, unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:35 p.m. (voice vote, unanimous)

City Council

The Bowling Green City Council approved the July 7 meeting minutes and confirmed Susan Montgomery’s appointment to the Transportation Advisory Committee. It adopted Ordinance #9294 for supplemental FY 2025 appropriations, Ordinance #9286 for bond reimbursement authority, and Ordinance #9287 to reallocate income‑tax funds. The council also adopted the emergency clause for a 0.15% income‑tax increase (Ordinance #9288) and tabled the ordinance, and approved contracts for safety‑facility construction (Ordinance #9291) and a sidewalk‑commission amendment (Ordinance #9292).

• Approved July 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Confirmed Susan Montgomery appointment to Transportation Advisory Committee (unanimous voice vote)
• Adopted Ordinance #9294 supplemental appropriations for FY 2025 (7‑0 vote)
• Adopted Ordinance #9286 authorizing bond reimbursement declarations (7‑0 vote)
• Adopted Ordinance #9287 amendment to income‑tax allocation (7‑0 vote)
• Adopted emergency clause for Ordinance #9288 (0.15% tax increase) and tabled the ordinance (7‑0 vote)
• Adopted Ordinance #9291 authorizing contracts for safety‑facility construction (7‑0 vote)
• Amended and adopted Ordinance #9292 sidewalk‑commission changes and its emergency clause (7‑0 votes)

Tree Commission

The Tree Commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes (6‑0). The commission also approved forwarding the Tree Commission ordinance to the city administrator for approval and then on to City Council, pending further items. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes (6-0)
• Ordinance approved to be sent to City Council (no vote recorded)

City Council

The council approved the June 16 meeting minutes and confirmed Lisa Myers to the Transportation Advisory Committee. Three ordinances—#9281, #9283, and #9285—were adopted by unanimous roll‑call votes. Council member O'Dorisio was excused from the meeting.

• Approved June 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Confirmed Lisa Myers appointment to Transportation Advisory Committee (unanimous voice vote)
• Adopted Ordinance #9281 (all six present members voted yes)
• Adopted Ordinance #9283 (all six present members voted yes)
• Adopted Ordinance #9285 (all six present members voted yes)
• Excused Council Member O'Dorisio (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Planning Commission

The commission voted 7‑0 to recommend that the 67.692‑acre parcel on the 14000 block of Bishop Road be annexed into the City of Bowling Green. It also approved R‑2 Medium Density Residential interim zoning for the parcels by a 6‑1 vote. All variance requests presented were approved as requested, and a public hearing was scheduled for the next meeting on August 6, 2025.

• Recommend annexation of 67.692 acres on Bishop Road – approved 7‑0
• Approve R‑2 Medium Density Residential interim zoning – approved 6‑1
• Approve variance requests for 7‑Eleven/Speedway at 1650 East Wooster St – approved
• Approve variance requests for QuikTrip at 120 Freeway Court – approved
• Approve variance requests for travel center at East Wooster St/South Dunbridge Rd – approved
• Set public hearing for August 6, 2025 – approved

Board of Public Utilities

The Board of Public Utilities approved the minutes from the March 24, 2025 meeting by unanimous voice vote. The board then adjourned the June 23, 2025 meeting at 6:05 p.m. by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved March 24, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:05 p.m. (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The council adopted the 2026 revenue estimate (Resolution #3882) with a unanimous 7‑0 vote. It also approved several ordinances, including the annexation of 2.66 acres at 14556 Sand Ridge Road and 2.92 acres at 14618 Sand Ridge Road, each passing 7‑0. Additional measures such as street‑cleaning assessments and police tow‑list changes were adopted, while historic‑register and interim‑zoning proposals were tabled pending a public hearing.

• Adopted Resolution #3882 (2026 revenue estimate) – adopted, 7‑0
• Adopted Ordinance #9278 (street‑cleaning special assessment) – adopted, 7‑0
• Adopted Ordinance #9279 (police tow‑list amendment) – adopted, 7‑0
• Adopted Ordinance #9280 (civil offenses classification amendment) – adopted, 7‑0
• Tabled Ordinance #9281 (historic register for 416 West Wooster St) – tabled, 7‑0
• Adopted Ordinance #9282 (annexation of 2.66 acres at 14556 Sand Ridge Rd) – adopted, 7‑0
• Tabled Ordinance #9283 (interim R‑1 zoning for 14556 Sand Ridge Rd) – tabled, 7‑0
• Adopted Ordinance #9284 (annexation of 2.92 acres at 14618 Sand Ridge Rd) – adopted, 7‑0

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board elected Rod Noble as chairperson, Tim Emmerich as vice chairperson, and Jay Sockman as secretary. It approved a variance for Nicholas Boulis to build a front‑yard parking pad. It approved variances for QuikTrip’s fuel canopies and travel center, and approved an additional unspecified variance. No decision was recorded for the 7‑Eleven/Speedway request.

• Elected Rod Noble as chairperson (5‑0)
• Elected Tim Emmerich as vice chairperson (5‑0)
• Elected Jay Sockman as secretary (5‑0)
• Granted variance to Nicholas Boulis for front‑yard parking pad (3‑2)
• Granted variance to QuikTrip for accessory structures and travel center (5‑0)
• Granted additional variance moved by Tim Emmerich (5‑0)

Planning Commission

The commission elected Ms. Broadwell as the Zoning Board of Appeals representative, Mr. McOmber as chairperson, and Mr. Waddle as vice‑chairperson, all by voice vote. It approved the Final Plat for Stone Brook 2nd Addition. It approved three variance requests (fence, parking pad, driveway) with a 7‑0 vote. Minutes from the May 7 meeting were also approved.

• Ms. Broadwell elected Zoning Board of Appeals rep (unanimous voice vote)
• Mr. McOmber elected Planning Commission chair (unanimous voice vote)
• Mr. Waddle elected vice‑chair (unanimous voice vote)
• Final Plat for Stone Brook 2nd Addition approved (motion passed)
• Variance for 8‑ft fence at 1245 Newton Rd approved (7‑0)
• Variance for 12 × 32 ft parking pad at 320 North Summit St approved (7‑0)
• Variance for 4 ft 10 in × 26 ft driveway at 1521 Finch Dr approved (7‑0)
• May 7, 2025 minutes approved as distributed

City Council

The council approved the Climate Action and Resiliency Plan (Resolution #3881) after amending it, and adopted Resolutions #3883 and #3884 related to the Central Business Special Improvement District and its special assessment. Ordinances #9274 and #9276 were also adopted. The council swore in Adam Skaff as Deputy Police Chief and excused Council Member O'Dorisio from the meeting. All motions passed with recorded votes.

• Swore in Adam Skaff as Deputy Police Chief – motion carried (unanimous voice vote)
• Adopted Resolution #3883 for Central Business Special Improvement District – adopted (6 yes votes)
• Adopted Resolution #3884 to levy special assessment for the district – adopted (6 yes votes)
• Amended Resolution #3881 Climate Action and Resiliency Plan – amendment adopted (6 yes votes)
• Adopted Resolution #3881 Climate Action and Resiliency Plan as amended – adopted (6 yes votes)
• Adopted Ordinance #9274 – adopted (6 yes votes)
• Adopted Ordinance #9276 – adopted (6 yes votes)
• Excused Council Member O'Dorisio from the meeting – motion carried (unanimous voice vote)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission approved the April 22, 2025 meeting minutes as amended. It scheduled the next commission meeting for June 24, 2025, noting that Sampen will be absent and Roudebush will act as chair. The commission also decided that BG SONG will report to the HPC and invite the HPC to attend meetings that may concern the commission.

• Approved minutes of April 22, 2025 meeting (as amended)
• Scheduled next meeting for June 24, 2025; Roudebush to act as chair (Sampen absent)
• Decided BG SONG will report to HPC and invite HPC to attend relevant meetings

Tree Commission

The commission voted to appoint Anne Bullerjahn as the new chair, with no opposition. Tom Himelhan announced his term ending and Joel Himelhan was introduced as a new member. The meeting also covered Tree City Award planning, grant updates, and upcoming public‑relations items, but no other actions were voted on.

• Anne Bullerjahn appointed chair (unanimous approval)

City Council

The council adopted Ordinance #9277 for supplemental and amended appropriations for FY 2025 (7‑0). It also adopted annexation ordinances #9273 (46.172 acres) and #9275 (11.29 acres), each passing 7‑0. Two Innovation zoning ordinances (#9274 and #9276) were tabled, and the council approved the May 5 minutes, board appointments, and scheduled a public hearing for the historic‑register ordinance.

• Adopted Ordinance #9277 (budget appropriations) (7‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance #9273 annexing 46.172 acres (7‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance #9275 annexing 11.29 acres (7‑0)
• Tabled Ordinance #9274 establishing IE Innovation zoning (7‑0)
• Tabled Ordinance #9276 establishing IE Innovation zoning (7‑0)
• Approved May 5 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved board and commission appointments (unanimous voice vote)
• Scheduled public hearing for Ordinance #9281 historic‑register placement (no vote recorded)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved three variance requests. Robert James Cooley received a variance for a 4‑ft‑10‑in driveway extension. The City of Bowling Green received a variance for an 8‑ft fence at 1245 Newton Road. Douglas Doren received a variance for a parking pad extension at 320 North Summit Street. All motions carried unanimously (6‑0).

• Granted Robert James Cooley driveway variance (6-0)
• Granted City of Bowling Green 8‑ft fence variance at 1245 Newton Rd (6-0)
• Granted Douglas Doren parking pad variance at 320 North Summit St (6-0)

Planning Commission

The commission approved annexations for parcels at 14556 and 14618 Sand Ridge Road by a 7‑0 vote. It also adopted interim R‑1 and R‑l Low Density Residential zoning for those parcels, each with a 7‑0 vote. A recommendation to City Council to designate 416 West Wooster Street as a historic property was approved 7‑0. Variance requests were decided: one was denied and two were approved with a screening condition.

• Approved annexation of 14556 Sand Ridge Rd (2.66 acres) (7-0)
• Approved annexation of 14618 Sand Ridge Rd (2.92 acres) (7-0)
• Approved R‑1 Low Density Residential interim zoning for 14556 Sand Ridge Rd (7-0)
• Approved R‑l Low Density Residential interim zoning for 14618 Sand Ridge Rd (7-0)
• Recommended City Council approve historic designation of 416 West Wooster St (7-0)
• Denied variance request for Vehtek Systems Inc. at 134 Woodgate Drive
• Approved variance for NCO Properties LLC at 131 Woodgate Drive with screening condition

City Council

The Bowling Green City Council adopted Ordinance #9267 to set fees for public‑record copies, Ordinance #9268 to allow the sale or trade of surplus municipal vehicles and equipment, Ordinance #9269 to authorize water‑tower improvements, and Ordinance #9270 to authorize water‑treatment plant clarifier improvements. Each ordinance passed on a roll‑call vote with all seven council members voting yes.

• Adopted Ordinance #9267 (public‑record copy fees) – unanimous (Herald, Hollenbaugh, Musgrave, O'Dorisio, Phipps, Robinette, Dennis)
• Adopted Ordinance #9268 (sell/trade surplus vehicles) – unanimous (Hollenbaugh, Musgrave, O'Dorisio, Phipps, Robinette, Dennis, Herald)
• Adopted Ordinance #9269 (Western & Carter Park water‑tower improvements) – unanimous (Musgrave, O'Dorisio, Phipps, Robinette, Dennis, Herald, Hollenbaugh)
• Adopted Ordinance #9270 (Water‑treatment plant clarifier improvements) – unanimous (O'Dorisio, Phipps, Robinette, Dennis, Herald, Hollenbaugh, Musgrave)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission approved the minutes from the March 25, 2025 meeting as amended. The commission scheduled its next meeting for May 27, 2025. Ryan Rothenbuhler was confirmed as a new commission member, having been approved by City Council.

• Approved March 25, 2025 minutes (as amended)
• Set next HPC meeting for May 27, 2025
• Added Ryan Rothenbuhler as new HPC member (approved by City Council)

City Council

The council approved the minutes from the April 7 meeting and appointed Ryan Rothenbuhler to the Historic Preservation Commission. It adopted Ordinance #9271 for supplemental 2025 appropriations, Ordinance #9272 updating the Code of Ordinances, and Resolution #3880 urging support for the May 6 school operating levy. Public hearings were scheduled for the annexation and interim zoning ordinances on June 2.

• Approved April 7 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Appointed Ryan Rothenbuhler to Historic Preservation Commission (unanimous voice vote)
• Adopted Ordinance #9271 supplemental appropriations for FY 2025 (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #9272 2025 S-17 supplement to Code of Ordinances (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution #3880 supporting the May 6 school operating levy (7-0)
• Amendment to Resolution #3880 failed (5 no, 2 yes)
• Scheduled public hearing for Ordinance #9274 (June 2, 6:30 p.m.)
• Scheduled public hearing for Ordinance #9276 (June 2, 6:30 p.m.)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board granted a variance to allow a 6‑foot fence that exceeds the height limit at 131 Woodgate Drive. It also granted a variance for an aggregate pavement equipment staging area that does not meet the required hard, dust‑less surface. The fence variance passed with a 4‑0 vote and the pavement variance passed with a 3‑1 vote. No other actions were taken.

• Approved fence variance (4-0)
• Approved aggregate pavement variance (3-1)

City Council

The council approved the minutes from the March 17 meeting and referred the historic designation of 416 W. Wooster St. to the Planning Commission. It adopted Ordinance #9266, providing supplemental appropriations for the city’s 2025 fiscal year, and also passed Ordinances #9264 and #9265 concerning employment policies and a right‑of‑way easement. The council amended and adopted Resolution #3879, establishing a six‑month moratorium on vape and smoke shops. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved March 17 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Referred 416 W. Wooster St. historic designation to Planning Commission (unanimous voice vote)
• Adopted Ordinance #9266 supplemental appropriations (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #9264 employment policy amendment (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #9265 easement acceptance (7-0)
• Amended Resolution #3879 vape shop moratorium to six‑month term (4-3)
• Adopted Resolution #3879 as amended (5-2)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Planning Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the Jan. 15, 2025 meeting after a name correction. It also approved the final plat for Stone Brook 2nd Addition and the preliminary plan extension for Cogan's Crossing Subdivision. Both annexation requests for parcels on Newton Road (46.172 acres and 11.29 acres) were approved, and each was assigned the IE Innovation and Employment interim zoning.

• Approved Jan. 15, 2025 minutes after name correction (unanimous)
• Approved Final Plat for Stone Brook 2nd Addition (6-0)
• Approved Preliminary Plan Extension for Cogan's Crossing Subdivision Plats 10‑14 (6-0)
• Approved annexation of 46.172 acres at 12698 & 12732 Newton Road (6-0)
• Assigned IE Innovation and Employment interim zoning to the 46.172‑acre parcel (6-0)
• Approved annexation of 11.29 acres north of 12698 & 12732 Newton Road (6-0)
• Assigned IE Innovation and Employment interim zoning to the 11.29‑acre parcel (6-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission approved the February 25, 2024 meeting minutes as amended. Commissioners unanimously approved the owner’s request to designate 416 West Wooster Street as a historic property. They also unanimously voted to withdraw the application for historic designation of 625 Haskins Road. Other agenda items were discussed or tabled for future meetings.

• Approved February 25, 2024 minutes (as amended)
• Approved historic designation for 416 W. Wooster St. (unanimous)
• Withdrawn historic designation application for 625 Haskins Rd. (unanimous)

Board of Public Utilities

The Board approved the minutes from the February 10, 2025 meeting unanimously. It also approved resolutions authorizing agreements for Western and Carter Park water tower improvements and for Water Treatment Plant clarifier improvements, each passing unanimously. The Board adopted the 2024 Climate Action and Resiliency Improvement Plan, with the motion carrying despite a No vote from Mr. Zuzik.

• Approved February 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 03-2025-01 for Western and Carter Park water tower improvements (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 03-2025-02 for Water Treatment Plant clarifier improvements (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 03-2025-03 adopting the 2024 Climate Action and Resiliency Improvement Plan (Mr. Zuzik voted No)