Kent public meetings in 2024

City Council

The City Council will vote on a consent agenda including 3% increases to both water and sewer rates starting January 2025. Other business includes funding for the 2025 Heritage Festival fireworks, parking regulation changes on Vine Street, parking meter amendments, and authorization to apply for a FEMA grant for a new fire ladder truck. The meeting also includes interviews and appointments for several boards and commissions.

• 3% water rate increase (Ordinance 2024-129) beginning Jan. 2025
• 3% sewer rate increase (Ordinance 2024-128) beginning Jan. 2025
• Funding for 2025 Heritage Festival fireworks (Ordinance 2024-122)
• Amendment to parking regulations on Vine Street (Ordinance 2024-124)
• Authorization to apply for FEMA grant for new 100-foot ladder truck (Ordinance 2024-121)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Kent Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider two variance requests. One request seeks to allow a principal building to be located 15 feet from the rear property line at 1312 N. Mantua Street. The other seeks to allow a subordinate structure to be located 6 feet from the principal building at 1335 W. Main Street.

• Public hearing for BZ24-017 variance at 1312 N. Mantua Street
• Public hearing for BZ24-018 variance at 1335 W. Main Street
• Approval of October 21, 2024 meeting minutes

Board of Health

The Kent City Health Board will hold third and final readings on resolutions to increase local licensing fees for food service operations, retail food establishments, and public swimming pools and spas. Other business includes approval of November 2024 expenditures and a discussion on fidget kits for tobacco control.

• Resolution #2024-004: Increase local licensing fees for Food Service Operations and Retail Food Establishments – third reading
• Resolution #2024-005: Increase local licensing fees for Public Swimming Pools and Spas – third reading
• Approval of Expenditures and Encumbrances for November 2024
• Discussion of Fidget Kits for Tobacco Control
• Statistical and Health Department Reports for November 2024

Sustainability Commission

The Kent Sustainability Commission will meet on December 9, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. in the Community Development Conference Room. The agenda includes a discussion of carbon storage and fracking injection wastewater wells under Old Business. The meeting also continues review of commission ordinances and the mission statement in a working session.

• Discussion of carbon storage and fracking injection wastewater wells
• Continued review of commission ordinances
• Continued discussion of the commission mission statement

City Council

The City Council committees will meet to discuss the proposed 2025 operating budget, a Chamber of Commerce fireworks funding request, and renewal of the public defender contract. The Finance Committee will also consider a 2024 budget appropriations amendment and authorize retroactive transactions. The Streets Committee will discuss an amendment to parking meter regulations. An executive session is scheduled for labor contract discussions.

• Presentation of the Proposed 2025 Operating Budget
• Chamber of Commerce Fireworks Funding Request
• City/Portage County Public Defender Contract Renewal
• 2024 Budget Appropriations Amendment
• Amendment to Chapter 358: Parking Meters

City Council

The City Council will consider a consent agenda containing several routine ordinances and resolutions, including authorization for temporary easements for the East Main Street Improvement Project, extension of a mutual aid agreement with Kent State University police, lease renewal for parking with West River Medical LLC, acceptance of an ODOT remnant parcel from SR 261, and allocation of $50,000 in CDC funding for the health department. The meeting includes public comment and committee reports with no separate actions recommended.

• Ordinance authorizing temporary easements for East Main Street Improvement Project
• Ordinance extending mutual aid agreement with Kent State University Police
• Ordinance renewing lease with West River Medical LLC for municipal parking spaces
• Ordinance accepting ODOT remnant parcel from SR 261 construction
• Ordinance allocating $50,000 CDC funding to maintain city health department accreditation

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to review a request for a Conditional Zoning Use Certificate and Site Plan approval. The proposal is for a Bed and Breakfast Facility at 711 S. Water Street.

• Conditional Zoning Use Certificate and Site Plan approval for a Bed and Breakfast at 711 S. Water Street

Standing Rock Cemetery

The Standing Rock Cemetery board will meet to review financial statements and approve vouchers. The agenda includes a discussion regarding the full-time hire of David Deskins.

• Full-time hire of David Deskins

City Council

City Council committees will meet to discuss public safety contracts, infrastructure updates, and financial planning. The session includes reviews of the 2024 budget appropriations and the proposed 2025-29 Capital Plan.

• Proposed 2025-29 Capital Plan Update
• 2024 Budget Appropriations Amendment
• City of Kent Police / Kent State University Police Mutual Aid Contract
• ODOT Director's Deed Property Transfer
• West River Parking Lot Agreement Update

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing to discuss and take action on three separate variance requests. These requests involve driveway modifications and property size or setback requirements for residential properties.

• BZ24-010: Variance for driveway bump outs at 1509 S. Water Street
• BZ24-015: Variance for a 3,147 square foot lot size deficiency for a two-family dwelling at 1253 N. Mantua Street
• BZ24-016: Variance for a 43-foot rear property line setback for an addition at 446 Sunrise Drive

Parks and Recreation Board

The board will approve minutes from the September 19 meeting and receive staff reports on September revenue, expenditures, park operations, recreation programs, and the director's update. The agenda consists of routine communications, old and new business, and a motion to adjourn.

• Approve minutes from Park Board Meeting 9/19/24
• Monthly Revenue Report (September)
• Monthly Expenditure Report (September)
• Park Report
• Recreation Report

City Council

The Kent City Council will consider a public hearing on the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report, then move to a consent agenda that includes several emergency actions. Items on the consent agenda authorize a temporary easement at 405 East Main Street, a civil‑service rule change for the Clerk of City Council, and the appropriation of property interests for the East Main Street Improvement project. Standing committee items include a zoning‑code amendment and two agreements with Klaben Property Management for a new dealership and service center that provide CRA tax‑exemption benefits. The meeting also provides time for public comment and routine council business.

• Approve temporary easement of real property at 405 East Main Street (emergency clause)
• Authorize civil‑service rule change allowing Clerk of City Council to perform Civil Service Coordinator duties and change pay grade (emergency clause)
• Appropriate property interests for the East Main Street Improvement project (emergency clause)
• Amend Kent zoning code to incorporate updated design guidelines (emergency clause)
• Approve agreements with Klaben Property Management and Klaben Ford Lincoln for new dealership and service center, providing CRA real‑property tax exemption (emergency clause)

Planning Commission

The Kent Planning Commission will review a Conditional Zoning Use Certificate and site plan for a housing project at 1604 E. Main Street. New business includes applications for a mixed‑use development at 265 West Main Street, an automotive temporary storage facility at 1225 West Main Street, a comprehensive sign plan at 174 Currie Hall Parkway, and an eight‑foot fence at 1374 Middlebury Road. Each item will go through staff reports, applicant presentations, public testimony, and a commission vote.

• Conditional Zoning Use Certificate for housing at 1604 E. Main St.
• Conditional Zoning Use Certificate for mixed‑use at 265 West Main St.
• Conditional Zoning Use Certificate for automotive temporary storage at 1225 West Main St.
• Comprehensive Sign Plan approval for sign package at 174 Currie Hall Parkway.
• Permit to erect an 8‑ft fence at 1374 Middlebury Rd.

Standing Rock Cemetery

The Standing Rock Cemetery board will review routine items such as approving minutes, financial statements, vouchers, and fuel reports for August and September. It will also discuss a wage increase for the assistant superintendent and the proposal for a new columbarium.

• Assistant superintendent wage increase
• Proposal for a new columbarium

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review several resolutions to increase local licensing fees. The body will also consider a resolution granting authority to tag articles for removal within the food safety program.

• Resolution #2024-002: Increase local licensing fees for body art establishments (second reading)
• Resolution #2024-003: Authority for Health Commissioner and specialists to tag articles for removal in food safety program (first reading)
• Resolution #2024-004: Increase local licensing fees for food service operations and retail food establishments (first reading)
• Resolution #2024-005: Adopt local licensing fees for public swimming pools and spas (first reading)
• Approval of September 2024 expenditures and encumbrances

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Commission will meet to coordinate logistics for an October CAP Open House event. The body will also discuss carbon storage and fracking injection wastewater wells.

• Logistics for October CAP Open House event
• Discussion of carbon storage and fracking injection wastewater wells
• Review of commission ordinances and mission statement

City Council

City Council committees will hold public hearings on Democracy Day and zoning code text amendments. The body will also review CRA agreements for a Lincoln dealership and a resolution to proceed with the East Main Street Improvement Project.

• Public hearing on Zoning Code Text Amendments
• CRA Agreement for new Lincoln Dealership Building
• CRA Agreement for renovation/expansion of Service Center
• Exterior facade alteration recommendation for 265 West Main Street
• Resolution to Proceed for East Main Street Improvement Project

Standing Rock Cemetery

The board will review and approve the meeting minutes. It will accept the financial statement and approve vouchers. A fuel report will be presented. The board will discuss a proposed wage increase for the Assistant Superintendent and consider a new columbarium.

• Approve meeting minutes
• Accept financial statement
• Approve vouchers
• Discuss Assistant Superintendent wage increase
• Consider new columbarium

City Council

City Council will consider several ordinances including the certification of tax rates to the County Auditor and a wireless 911 fund appropriation. The body is also reviewing a water planning study for south Kent and a school travel plan.

• Authorization of tax rates and amounts for submission to the Portage County Auditor
• Agreement with APCO International and Motorola Solutions for $184,333.84 in the Wireless 911 Fund
• Grant of $25,254.54 for the Fire Department to replace old fire hose
• TREX Liquor License for Beware of the Leopard, LLC at 176 East Main Street
• Water planning agreement with Portage County Water Resources for south Kent potable water

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider two requests for conditional zoning use certificates and site plan approvals for multifamily dwellings. The body will also discuss proposed text amendments to several chapters of the City of Kent Zoning Code.

• PC24-010: Multifamily dwelling request at 1604 E. Main Street
• PC24-011: Multifamily dwelling request at 1750 Campus Center Drive
• PC24-013: Proposed text amendments to Zoning Code Chapters 1102, 1103, 1104, 1106, and 1109

Board of Health

The Kent City Health Board will approve August expenditures and consider first readings for resolutions that would increase licensing fees for food service operations and body art establishments. The meeting will also include a statistical report and a discussion on emergency alert systems.

• Approval of August 2024 expenditures and encumbrances
• First reading of resolution to increase food service licensing fees
• First reading of resolution to increase body art licensing fees
• Statistical report for August 2024
• Discussion on responding to emergency alerts and notifications

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Commission will meet to discuss carbon storage and fracking injection wastewater wells. The body will also continue discussions regarding the focus of future working sessions.

• Discussion of carbon storage and fracking injection wastewater wells
• Discussion of working session focus for future meetings

City Council

City Council committees will meet to discuss financial appropriations, rental licensing, and public safety agreements. The session includes updates on the City Administration Building and Kent State University.

• Certification of tax rates for 2025
• Rental Licensing Penalty Amendment
• Exterior Facade Alterations for 252 N. Water St.
• 911 Fund Appropriation
• School Resource Officer Agreement Renewal

Board of Health

The Board of Health will elect a President and Vice President. The body will also review expenditures for April through July 2024 and discuss an epidemiology contract with Carroll County.

• Election of President and Vice President
• Review of expenditures and encumbrances for April, May, June, and July 2024
• Epidemiology contract with Carroll County
• GMIS Multiple Grant Positions Memo
• Resignation of Administrative Assistant Amanda Jackson

City Council

City Council committees will meet to discuss infrastructure updates, budget amendments, and community development. A public hearing is scheduled regarding a local historic property designation for 228 Goulger Avenue.

• Public hearing for local historic property designation at 228 Goulger Avenue
• Local Historic Property Request from Unitarian Universalist Church (UUC)
• City Administration Building construction update
• Juvenile Diversion PASS Grant
• North Mantua Street Purpose and Need Statement

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings regarding the annual tax budget and a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) expansion. Committee meetings will also address city building decarbonization, marijuana operating agreements, and various budget items.

• Public hearing for the City of Kent Annual Tax Budget for fiscal year ending December 31, 2025
• Public hearing regarding Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) expansion request
• Discussion on decarbonization planning for city buildings
• Proposed operating agreement for the sale of adult use marijuana
• OPWC grant/loan application request

City Council

The City Council is reviewing a resolution to adopt the city's tax budget for the 2025 fiscal year. Additionally, several ordinances are proposed to authorize easements for the East Main Street Improvement Project.

• Adoption of the City of Kent tax budget for fiscal year beginning January 1, 2025
• Easement agreement with Kent Investors, LLC for East Main Street Improvement Project
• Easement agreement with Ninth Brand Realty, LLC for East Main Street Improvement Project
• Easement agreement with Wholesome Development Kent, LLC for East Main Street Improvement Project
• Easement agreement with George and Diane E. Grove-Ackerman for East Main Street Improvement Project

Board of Health

The Kent City Health Board meets on July 9, 2024, to conduct administrative and policy business. The board will elect its president and vice president, review expenditures for April through June 2024, and discuss strategic planning. Action items include reviewing a memo on grant positions, considering an epidemiology contract with Carroll County, and accepting the resignation of an administrative assistant.

• Elect board president and vice president
• Review strategic planning presentation by Jalessa Caples
• Approve expenditures and encumbrances for April, May, and June 2024
• Review epidemiology contract with Carroll County
• Accept resignation of Administrative Assistant Amanda Jackson

Parks and Recreation Board

The board will review monthly revenue and expenditure reports for May. The meeting includes staff updates from the Park, Recreation, and Director offices.

• Approval of May 16, 2024 minutes
• May Monthly Revenue Report
• May Monthly Expenditure Report
• Park Report
• Recreation Report

City Council

The Kent City Council will consider proposed resolutions, including renewing the city’s 1.16-mill general operating levy for the November ballot to fund daily municipal services. Finance staff recommend refunding $3,190,000 in Safety Center debt and $4,185,000 in Alley 4 bond debt to lower interest costs, alongside amendments to the current fiscal year budget. The council will also vote on a zoning update that would permit adult-use cannabis and vape retail stores in the Industrial District, a public art license for Haymaker Parkway bridge, and a right-of-way easement for Taco Bell’s East Main Street Improvement Project.

• Renewal of the 1.16-mill general operating levy for the November 2024 ballot
• Zoning code amendment to permit adult-use cannabis and vape retail stores in the Industrial District
• Bond refunding ordinances for $3,190,000 (Safety Center debt) and $4,185,000 (Alley 4 bond debt)
• Budget appropriations amendments for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024
• Agreement with Taco Bell of America, LLC. for a temporary easement on East Main Street Improvement Project

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a request for site plan approval regarding Kent Roosevelt High School. The proposal involves the expansion of a conditionally permitted school use.

• PC24-008: Kent Roosevelt High School / Hasenstab Architects site plan approval

Civil Service Commission

The Commission will review several personnel updates including resignations and a retirement. It will also consider requests regarding hiring processes for police and community development roles.

• Resignation of Civil Service Coordinator John Seidel, effective May 23, 2024
• Approval for testing for the Civil Service Coordinator position
• New hire Samantha McGarry as Clerk/Dispatcher, effective May 20, 2024
• Resignation of Elizabeth Krezczowski as Clerk/Dispatcher, effective May 06, 2024
• Request for a provisional appointment for a Detention Officer

Board of Zoning Appeals

The scheduled public hearing and regular business meeting for the Kent City Board of Zoning Appeals was cancelled. The agenda included several variance requests regarding driveways, accessory structures, and fence heights.

• BZ24-004: Driveway bump out variance at 310 Elmwood Drive
• BZ24-007: Accessory structure setback variances at 721 Berkeley Street
• BZ24-008: Fence height variance at 1602 S. Lincoln Street

Standing Rock Cemetery

The board will review financial statements, approve vouchers, and receive a fuel report. The agenda also includes welcoming a new trustee and discussing an audit.

• Welcome of new Trustee Jim Stroble
• Discussion regarding Roger Donell to a salaried employee
• Audit

Board of Health

The Board will conduct elections for President and Vice President. Discussion items include the Prescription Produce Program, Strategic Planning - SOAR, and a SafePointe update. Action items also include reviewing expenditures and an epidemiology contract with Carroll County.

• Election of President
• Election of Vice President
• Epidemiology Contract with Carroll County
• Review of April & May 2024 Expenditures & Encumbrances
• Prescription Produce Program discussion

City Council

City Council will conduct a public hearing regarding proposed text amendments to the Zoning Code. Multiple committees will meet to discuss topics including an operating levy, city administration building updates, and cannabis zoning.

• Public Hearing: Zoning Code Text Amendments (Chapters 1102, 1103, 1105, and 1107)
• Land Use Committee discussion on Adult Use Cannabis zoning
• Finance Committee discussion on an Operating Levy Resolution to Proceed
• Committee of the Whole update on the New City Administration Building
• Streets, Sidewalks & Utilities Committee discussion on Haymaker Farmers Market license agreement revision

Sustainability Commission

The commission will receive information regarding legislation processes from Bridget Susel. Members will also discuss whether to cancel or reschedule the July meeting.

• Information on legislation processes provided by Bridget Susel
• Discussion of July meeting date

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review proposed text amendments to several chapters of the city's zoning code. The commission will also consider a request for a restaurant at 1630 E. Main Street.

• Zoning use certificate and site plan approval for a restaurant at 1630 E. Main Street
• Proposed amendments to Zoning Code Chapters 1102, 1103, 1105, and 1107

Civil Service Commission

The scheduled meeting for the Civil Service Commission on May 20, 2024, has been cancelled. No specific business or agenda items will be addressed.

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider several property variance requests during its May 20 meeting. These include modifications to driveway widths at 310 Elmwood Drive, sign alterations at 1407 Fairchild Avenue, and buffer removals at 1630 E. Main Street.

• Driveway bump out variance for 310 Elmwood Drive
• Monument sign alteration request for 1407 Fairchild Avenue
• Sign placement and landscape buffer removal at 1630 E. Main Street

Parks and Recreation Board

The Board is reviewing April revenue and expenditure reports, including grant-funded payments. Updates were provided on summer camp registration, park maintenance, and the presentation of an abbreviated master plan. The board also discussed potential new amenities like a downtown splash pad.

• New basketball court planned for Yacavona Park
• Abbreviated version of the master plan to be presented at council meeting
• Discussion regarding a potential downtown splash pad or gazebo reconfiguration
• Approval of equipment donation to Kent Youth Football
• $8,302.99 payment for Spanky's Outlet Rec. Ctr. flooring via grant funds

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing for the PY2024 CDBG Action Plan. The meeting includes discussions on renewing a 1.16-mill operating levy, updating budget funds, and approving easements for the East Main Street Improvement Project.

• Public hearing for the PY2024 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Action Plan
• Renewal of the 2020 General Operating Levy (1.16 mils) for the November 2024 ballot
• Renewal of the Davey Tree Enterprise Zone Agreement
• Ordinance to prohibit semi-tractor trailer parking in residential areas
• Easement agreements with Prizm Property Group of Ohio, LLC, NNIA Properties, LLC, and Sabatine BK Development, LLC for East Main Street Improvement Project

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review a request from Portage Health Network LLC for an assisted living facility. The application seeks a Conditional Zoning Certificate and site plan approval.

• Conditional Zoning Certificate and site plan approval for 1541 S. Water Street
• Proposed assisted living facility by Portage Health Network LLC

Standing Rock Cemetery

The Standing Rock Cemetery meeting includes routine approvals for minutes, financial statements, and vouchers. The agenda also features discussion regarding seasonal workers and a request from the Historical Society.

• Approval of minutes and financial statements
• Approval of vouchers
• Review of fuel report
• Discussion of seasonal workers
• Historical Society request

Sustainability Commission

The commission will discuss a resolution proposed by member Julie Grant for City Council. A working session regarding the Climate Action Plan will also be held.

• Discussion of Julie Grant’s proposed resolution for Council
• Working Session: Climate Action Plan

City Council

City Council committees will meet to discuss several municipal topics including a proposed operating levy renewal and updates on new City Hall construction. Other discussions include the Davey Tree Enterprise Zone Agreement and semi truck parking in neighborhoods.

• Proposed Operating Levy Renewal
• New City Hall Construction Update
• Davey Tree Enterprise Zone Agreement continuation
• Semi Truck Parking in Neighborhoods discussion
• City/KSU Partnership Update

General

This joint meeting between Kent City Council and Franklin Township Trustees includes interviews for the Standing Rock Cemetery Board. The agenda contains draft resolutions to set 2024 cemetery tax rates at .60 mills and to approve pay raises for cemetery personnel.

• Appointment of an At Large Trustee to the Standing Rock Cemetery Board
• Fixing 2024 cemetery tax rates at .60 mills for Kent and Franklin Township
• Proposed salary and hourly pay raises for Standing Rock Cemetery personnel

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a request from Portage Health Network LLC for a conditional zoning certificate and site plan approval. The proposal seeks to establish an assisted living facility at 1541 S. Water Street.

• Conditional Zoning Certificate and site plan approval for an assisted living facility at 1541 S. Water Street
• Review of meeting minutes from January 16, 2024, and March 5, 2024

Parks and Recreation Board

The meeting consists of procedural items and staff reports. The board will review March revenue and expenditure reports.

• March Monthly Revenue Report
• March Monthly Expenditure Report

City Council

The meeting includes discussions on an ordinance to subdivating the city into wards and approving a street closure for an Earth Day market. Council will also review easements related to the East Main Street Improvement Project.

• Ordinance to subdivide the city into wards
• Donation of equipment and uniforms to Kent Youth Football and Cheer
• Temporary closure of East Erie Street for Earth Day Vendor Market
• Easement agreement with Valvoline LLC for East Main Street Improvement Project
• Recycling of old Dell traffic servers

Standing Rock Cemetery

The board will review the financial statement and approve vouchers. Discussion items include setting a joint meeting agenda, approving the return of seasonal employees, and reviewing the SRC Policy Manual.

• Accept Financial Statement
• Approve Vouchers
• Approve returning seasonal employees
• Review SRC Policy Manual

Board of Health

The Kent Board of Health will review statistical and director's reports for February and March 2024. The board will also discuss county health department rankings and roadmaps.

• Approval of March 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of February and March 2024 statistical reports
• Discussion on County Health Departments Rankings and Roadmaps
• Approval of March 2024 expenditures and encumbrances

City Council

The committee meetings will cover updates on the New City Hall project and solar eclipse preparations. The agenda also includes discussions regarding the Climate Action Plan, grant funding, and Earth Day planning.

• New City Hall project update
• Solar eclipse event preparation report
• Climate Action Plan and Sustainability update
• Donation of youth football and cheer equipment
• Earth Day Vendor Market discussion

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a Comprehensive Sign Plan for the properties at 425/427 Franklin Avenue. The subject property is located in the C-D Commercial Downtown Zoning District.

• Comprehensive Sign Plan for 425/427 Franklin Avenue

Sustainability Commission

The commission will discuss its meeting length and structure. Members will also discuss a resolution proposed by Julie Grant for City Council. A working session regarding the Climate Action Plan will follow.

• Discussion of meeting length and structure
• Discussion of Julie Grant’s proposed resolution for Council
• Climate Action Plan working session

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board will consider two variance requests regarding property standards. One request involves a driveway bump out at 133 N. Mantua St., and another concerns an addition distance at 911 N. Mantua St.

• BZ24-002: Driveway width variance for 133 N. Mantua St.
• BZ24-003: Building addition setback variance for 911 N. Mantua St.

Parks and Recreation Board

The board will review monthly revenue and expenditure reports for February. The meeting also includes updates from the park, recreation, and director reports.

• February monthly revenue report
• February monthly expenditure report
• Park, recreation, and director reports

City Council

The City Council is considering several legislative items including a lease renewal for Haymaker Farmer's Market and updates to the Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund. The agenda also includes discussions on East Main Street construction agreements and various board appointments.

• Renewal of Haymaker Farmer's Market sublease for $1.00
• Establishment of a 3% fixed interest rate for the Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund
• East Main Street Transportation Improvement Project agreement with Kent State University and PARTA
• Proposed changes to Second Ward maps
• Liquor license transfer request for Chipotle Mexican Grill from 429 E. Main Street to 605 E. Main Street

Civil Service Commission

The Commission will review meeting minutes from February 26, 2024. The agenda includes recording resignations for a Detention Officer and a Police Officer, as well as a request to create an eligible list for the position of Police Lieutenant.

• Resignation of Cheri Kleinknecht, Detention Officer, effective March 03, 2024
• Resignation of Grant Redeker, Police Officer, effective March 12, 2024
• Request to create an eligible list for the position of Police Lieutenant

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review the February 2024 minutes and expenditures. The agenda includes a survey of Kent City Pools and a PHEP quarterly update.

• Review of February 2024 Board Minutes
• Survey of Kent City Pools
• PHEP Quarterly Update
• Review of February 2024 Expenditures and Encumbrances

City Council

The council is reviewing an ordinance for managing zoning and building permits in the Overlay District during a transition period. They will also consider an agreement with the City of Akron to construct a shared use path.

• Second reading of ordinance for zoning and building permit reviews in the Overlay District
• Agreement with the City of Akron to construct a shared use path (bike & hike trail)

City Council

City Council committees will meet to discuss updates on City Hall construction and ward map changes. The agenda also includes a review of the Haymaker Farmers Market sub lease renewal and street closure requests for an upcoming eclipse event.

• East Main Street construction and maintenance agreement
• Haymaker Farmers Market sub lease renewal
• Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund interest rate amendment
• Eclipse event street closure update and request
• 2023 Health Department Annual Report

Planning Commission

The Commission will consider a Comprehensive Sign Plan for the Sunoco property at 1152 West Main St. The agenda also includes the election of officers and approval of January 16, 2024 minutes.

• Comprehensive Sign Plan for Sunoco at 1152 West Main St
• Election of officers
• Approval of January 16, 2024 meeting minutes

Sustainability Commission

The Kent Sustainability Commission will meet to discuss upcoming events and hear a presentation by Dr. Amy Ward regarding a KSU grant for vulnerable road users. Members will also conduct a working session on the Climate Action Plan facilitated by Julie Morris. These items provide updates on local pedestrian safety initiatives and long-term environmental policy for Kent residents. The agenda contains no formal votes or binding decisions; all items are informational or discussion-based.

• Open comment on a KSU grant addressing vulnerable road users, presented by Dr. Amy Ward
• Discussion of upcoming events for commission participation
• Working session on the Climate Action Plan facilitated by Julie Morris
• Standard new business and adjournment

Civil Service Commission

The Commission will review the January 29, 2024, meeting minutes and discuss a proposal to allow external candidates for Police and Fire promotional exams. The agenda also includes several personnel changes regarding new hires, classification changes, and a retirement.

• Discussion on allowing external candidates for Police & Fire Promotionals
• New hire: Maximilian Arnett, Police Officer (effective February 05, 2024)
• New hire: Niatoria Lough, Detention Officer (effective January 25, 2024)
• Classification change: James Samels to Fire Chief (effective January 22, 2024)
• Retirement: Kathleen Petsko, Grants & Neighborhood Programs Coordinator (effective March 31, 2024)

City Council

The council will hold a public hearing regarding the 2024 Community Development Block Grant Action Plan. Proposed items include street closures for the Kent Craft Beer Festival and property acquisitions for the East Main Street Improvement Project. The agenda also includes budget amendments and various ordinance updates.

• Property acquisitions for the East Main Street Improvement Project from Bishop David J. Bonnar and Slightly Toasted, LLC
• Street closures for the Kent Craft Beer Festival on May 18, 2024
• A $48,800 NOPEC Energized Community Grant award
• Demolition funding for buildings at 331 Elm Street and 266 N. Water Street
• Disbanding the Architecture Review Board

Parks and Recreation Board

The meeting consists of procedural items and reviews of monthly revenue and expenditure reports for January. Staff updates from the park and recreation departments are also scheduled.

• January Monthly Revenue Report
• January Monthly Expenditure Report

Board of Health

The Board will review January 2024 reports and discuss new Ohio Department of Agriculture fee structures. Action items include approving a memorandum of understanding with AxessPointe for a harm reduction program and electing board officers.

• MOU with AxessPointe for Harm Reduction Program
• Discussion of new Ohio Department of Agriculture fee structure
• Election of Board of Health President and Vice-President
• Resolution 2004-001 regarding Risk Level RFE fees
• Review of January 2024 expenditures and encumbrances

Standing Rock Cemetery

The board will review financial statements and vouchers. Discussion includes roofing quotes and an at-large board position.

• Review of financial statement
• Approval of vouchers
• Discussion of roofing quotes
• At-Large Board position

City Council

City Council committees will meet to review several municipal matters. Discussions include proposed 2024 budget amendments, ward map revisions, and East Main Street project acquisitions. The agenda also covers City Hall construction updates and road closures for the Craft Beer Festival.

• Proposed 2024 Budget Appropriations Amendment
• East Main Street Project Right of Way Acquisitions
• Proposed Ward Map Revisions
• Craft Beer Festival Road Closure
• Portage County Land Bank Subrecipient Grant Agreement

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Commission will discuss a KSU grant regarding vulnerable road users. The meeting also includes a working session on the Climate Action Plan.

• KSU grant addressing vulnerable road users
• Climate Action Plan working session

Civil Service Commission

The Commission is reviewing several personnel actions for the Police, Fire, and IT departments. Additionally, the body will consider requests to establish eligible lists for a part-time Records Clerk and a Police Captain.

• Police: New hire Sabrina Shackleford (Clerk/Dispatcher)
• Police: Classification change for Troy Loomis to Compliance Officer
• Police: Resignation of Laurie Saunier (Clerk/Dispatcher)
• Police: Request to establish eligible list for Records Clerk (Part Time)
• Police: Request to establish eligible list for Police Captain

General

The Kent City Board of Zoning Appeals will meet on January 22, 2024. The board will consider a variance request for 439 Harris to allow an accessory structure to be located 0 feet from the rear property line instead of the required 10 feet.

• Variance request BZ24-001 for 439 Harris
• Election of officers

Parks and Recreation Board

The Kent Parks and Recreation Board agenda is largely procedural, covering routine December financial reviews and staff updates for park operations. Members will also enter executive session to consider purchasing or selling property under Ohio law.

• Review of December revenue and expenditure reports
• Park, recreation, and director staff updates
• Executive session on property purchase or sale per ORC §121.22 and section 505.10
• Public comment period and correspondence review

City Council

The City Council is reviewing a proposed temporary moratorium on recreational marijuana dispensaries. Additionally, several ordinances regarding health department grants and street closures for eclipse events are up for consideration.

• Moratorium on adult use cannabis operators and laboratories
• Street closure request for 2024 eclipse events
• $50,000 Farm to School grant application
• $15,000 Office of Minority Health grant application
• $117,000 Extended Tobacco Use grant appropriation

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider two requests for Comprehensive Sign Plan approvals. The items include a plan for the Unitarian Universalist Church at 228 Gougler Ave and a plan for Branded Image Group, Sunoco at 1152 West Main St.

• Comprehensive Sign Plan: Unitarian Universalist Church, 228 Gougler Ave
• Comprehensive Sign Plan: Branded Image Group, Sunoco, 1152 West Main St

Standing Rock Cemetery

The meeting focuses on organizational tasks, including appointing a Chairman and Vice-Chair. It also includes reviewing financial statements, vouchers, and the 2024 budget.

• Appointment of Chairman
• Appointment of Vice-Chair
• Approval of 2024 Budget
• Acceptance of Financial Statement
• Review of Fuel Report

Board of Health

The Kent City Health Board will review December 2023 statistical and health department reports. Action items include a third and final reading of Resolution 2023-006 regarding food service license fees and the approval of the Medical Director’s contract.

• Third and final reading of Resolution 2023-006 Food Service License Fees
• Approval of Medical Director’s contract
• Review of December 2023 expenditures and encumbrances
• December 2023 Statistical Report

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Commission will hold a working session regarding the Climate Action Plan, facilitated by Julie Morris. The remainder of the agenda consists of standard procedural items.

• Working Session – Climate Action Plan

City Council

The City Council will hold several committee meetings including the Committee of the Whole and Community Development. Discussions include updates on new City Hall construction and a marijuana moratorium zoning code.

• New City Hall Construction Update
• Recreational Marijuana Moratorium Zoning Code
• Eclipse Event Street Closure Request
• Special Event Street Closure
• Health Department Grant Applications and Appropriations

City Council

This special meeting includes a motion to suspend Council Standing Rules and authorize draft legislation. The council is reviewing a draft ordinance to notify the Board of Elections to withdraw a proposed charter amendment from the March 19, 2023 election ballot.

• Motion to suspend Council Standing Rules and authorize draft legislation
• Draft Ordinance 2024-001 to withdraw a proposed charter amendment from the March 19, 2023 election ballot