Lancaster, Ohio

Tree Commission

Historic Lancaster Commission

The Historic Lancaster Commission will allow residents to address the body before moving to new business. Commissioners will consider five project proposals involving windows, doors, siding, fences, roof, brick, and gutter work at various downtown addresses. The meeting will also revisit two older projects related to demolition, parking, and window replacement.

• CA-00581 – 109 N. Broad St. – Windows, entry door replacement, and lighting
• CA-00582 – 333 N. Broad St. – Replace siding
• CA-00583 – 128 W. Chestnut St. – Install new 6’ wood fence
• CA-00584 – 333 N. High St. – Roof repair, brick repair, and gutters/downspouts
• CA-00585 – 171 King St. – Install 4’ aluminum fence

City Council

The Finance Committee will consider a series of temporary resolutions, each requiring three readings, covering appropriations for several public‑works improvement projects and a request for a new full‑time tax auditor position. It will also vote on an appropriation for the LFD Auxiliary Building. Additionally, a temporary ordinance for the Greenfield Township Cooperative Economic Development Agreement will be reviewed.

• Arbor Valley Drive Improvement Project appropriation
• Ety Rd Improvement Project
• Memorial/Pierce Walk Ways Project
• East Main St Walks and Shoulder Widening Project
• Appropriation for LFD Auxiliary Building

Finance Committee

The Lancaster Finance Committee will hold three‑reading votes on several temporary resolutions, including appropriations for road and walk‑way projects and a request for a new full‑time tax auditor. It will also vote on an ordinance for a Greenfield Township cooperative economic‑development agreement. One resolution (Violet Township New Community Authority) is listed as suspended.

• Arbor Valley Drive Improvement Project appropriation
• Ety Rd Improvement Project appropriation
• East Main St Walks and Shoulder Widening Project appropriation
• Appropriation for LFD Auxiliary Building
• Greenfield Twp. Cooperative Economic Development Agreement ordinance

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Lancaster Board of Zoning Appeals will hear appeals for several parcels, including 1301 East Main Street, 617 Slocum Avenue, 767 Medill Avenue, and others. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as roll call, approval of minutes, and swearing‑in of speakers. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Appeal for 1301 East Main Street (case #00797)
• Appeal for 617 Slocum Avenue (case #00815)
• Appeal for 767 Medill Avenue (case #00807)
• Appeal for 806 Harrison Avenue (case #00816)
• Appeal for 1935 Branch Place (case #00808)

Code Enforcement & Zoning Committee

The Code Enforcement & Zoning Committee will receive departmental updates and review proposed changes to the data center code. The meeting also includes a discussion on revised subdivision regulations.

• Proposed Data Center Code
• Revised Subdivision Regulations

Park Board

The Lancaster Park Board will approve the July park budget expense and revenue report and related bills. It will consider a construction estimate from Bowers Construction (listed as 2LMN) and a draft revenue code reorganization. The board will also discuss new public sites and open spaces language and financing options for the parks.

• Bowers Construction Estimate (2LMN)
• Revenue Code Reorganization Draft
• Approval of park budget expense/revenue report and bills
• Discussion of new public sites & open spaces language
• Discussion of park financing options

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee discussed the proposed Cooperative Economic Development Agreement with Greenfield Township. A motion to bring the agreement to the City Council was made by Councilman Carr, seconded by Councilman Schoonover, and unanimously approved. The committee then adjourned the meeting.

• Motion to bring CEDA agreement to council – approved (all in favor)
• Motion to adjourn – approved (all in favor)

Park Board

The Lancaster Board of Park Commissioners will consider a construction estimate from Bowers and a draft Revenue Code reorganization. It will also discuss language for new public sites and open spaces and explore financing options for the park system. The meeting includes routine items such as approving bills and reviewing budget reports.

• Bowers Construction Estimate, 2LMN
• Revenue Code Reorganization Draft
• Discussion of new Public Sites & Open Spaces language
• Discussion of park financing options
• Approve Bills (Park Budget)

Civil Service Commission

The Lancaster Civil Service Commission will consider updates to its Rules and Regulations document, discuss recent developments with RC Solutions LLC, address fire department testing needs, and hear from the Ohio Fire Chiefs’ Association. It will also approve the minutes from the May 5, 2026 meeting and handle routine business items.

• Approve prior meeting minutes of May 5, 2026
• Review recent developments with RC Solutions LLC
• Discuss fire department testing needs
• Review status of Rules and Regulations document updates
• Hear from Ohio Fire Chiefs’ Association

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the May 5, 2026 meeting. By a 2‑yes to 1‑no vote, the board rescinded its contract with RC Resolutions, Inc. The board also unanimously approved new modifications to the City of Lancaster Civil Service Commission Rules and Regulations, repealing all former rules.

• Approved May 5, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Rescinded contract with RC Resolutions, Inc. (2‑yes, 1‑no)
• Approved new Civil Service Commission Rules and Regulations, repealing former rules (unanimous)

Public Works Committee

The committee will receive updates from the Engineering, Transportation, and Cemetery divisions. Topics include the completed one‑way conversion on E/W Chestnut Street, upcoming chip seal work on streets, and routine stormwater and traffic maintenance. No formal decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• E/W Chestnut St. one‑way conversion completed project update
• Street maintenance and repairs (Cape Seal) chip seal ahead of Micro Project in August
• Mosquito and herbicide spraying
• Routine stormwater maintenance and repairs
• Pedestrian crossing upgrades

Tree Commission

The Lancaster Tree Commission will receive the forester's report and discuss scheduled pruning at several streets. It will consider tree and stump removal requests at multiple locations, including Lanreco Park and the downtown area. The board will also address the sidewalk program, storm‑related tree concerns, and note that one removal/pruning permit has been issued year‑to‑date.

• Pruning at 412 Lake St, 118 Wheeling St, Fourth St, 633 E. Chestnut, Countryside Dr., and 622 Broad St.
• Tree and stump removals at 1217 W. Seventh, Lanreco Park, 525 E. Fifth, Downtown, 145 Marks Ave, 1000 E. Fifth, 813 Chestnut, 822 Harding, Bike Path, and Forest Rose Cemetery.
• Sidewalk program discussion (no specific locations listed).
• Storm issues at 615 Shasta, 143 Arney, 819 Forest Rose, and 307 N. Mt. Pleasant.
• One removal/pruning permit issued year‑to‑date.

The commission shared that four trees will be placed in the 6‑by‑8‑foot wells at The Shumaker Company (219 N. Columbus St.) with two to be planted on Columbus Street and two on Mulberry Street. Members discussed tree varieties and future work on the East Main Street project, slated to start in 2028 and funded by a Safety Grant. The forester report covered recent tree trimming, removals (including at Forest Rose Cemetery), storm‑related work, mowing at River Valley Highlands, and a donated tree planted at Rising Park. No formal decisions or votes were recorded during the meeting.

City Council

Lancaster City Council will discuss updating the city's planning and zoning code and repealing flood damage reduction ordinances. The body is also considering a development agreement for the Dave Johns Spec Building project and a contract for a school resource officer at St. Mary School.

• Proposed rezoning of 316 Sylvan Avenue and 1117 West Mulberry Street to Advanced Manufacturing District
• Asset management arrangement with BP Energy Company related to $300,525,000 in gas supply revenue bonds
• Contract with St. Mary School for a school resource officer for the 2026-2027 school year
• Engineering agreements for Lawrence Street Pump Station and South Water Plant projects
• Application for Program Year 2026 Community Housing Impact and Preservation Program

The Lancaster City Council passed a series of temporary resolutions, all unanimously except one that passed 8‑1. The measures authorize fund appropriations, grant applications, and project contracts, including a $250,000 funding request and a grant for handicap‑accessible ramps. Several resolutions required rule suspensions to waive additional readings before approval.

• Approved Temporary Resolution 5l-26 to appropriate funds for a court clerk retirement (9‑0)
• Approved Temporary Resolution 53-26 authorizing the mayor to submit HUD CDBG annual action plan and declare an emergency (9‑0)
• Approved Temporary Resolution 54-26 to apply for $250,000 funding (9‑0)
• Approved Temporary Resolution 55-26 to appropriate local match money for East Main Street shoulder widening project (8‑1)
• Approved Temporary Resolution 56-26 to submit application for Community Housing Impact and Preservation Program (9‑0)
• Approved Temporary Resolution 57-26 to accept AARP Community Grant for handicap‑accessible ramp upgrades (9‑0)
• Suspended rules, waived third reading, and approved Temporary Resolution 60-26 for a water department retirement fund (9‑0)
• Suspended rules, waived second and third readings, and approved Temporary Resolution 63-26 for builders risk insurance for water pollution facility expansion (9‑0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several temporary resolutions and ordinances. Items include a suspension of a water pollution control resolution, a contract with St. Mary School for a 2026‑27 resource officer, and multiple zoning map amendment ordinances. The committee will also consider the final plat for the Ewing Woods subdivision.

• Temp Res #63-26 Water/Water Pollution Control Committee – suspension of builder’s risk insurance certificate for Upper Hocking project
• Temp Res #64-26 Safety Committee – contract with St. Mary School to provide a Resource Officer for 2026‑27
• Temp Ord #20-26 Code Enforcement & Zoning Committee – suspension to accept final plat for Ewing Woods subdivision
• Temp Ord #21-26 Code Enforcement & Zoning Committee – 3 readings of Zoning Map Amendments
• Temp Ord #23-26 Safety Committee – 3 readings of Administrative Code changes relating to Fire Department

Historic Lancaster Commission

The Historic Lancaster Commission will consider several property improvement projects, including an awning replacement at 105 N Columbus St. and signage at 230 N Columbus St. The commission will also approve a like‑for‑like fence replacement at 333 N Broad St. and a lean‑to carport at 929 Pleasantville Rd. Additionally, the body will discuss demolition and parking at 955 Lincoln Ave. and window replacement at 214/216 S. Columbus St.

• Awning Replacement – 105 N Columbus St.
• Signage – 230 N Columbus St.
• Fence Replacement (like‑for‑like) – 333 N Broad St.
• Lean‑To Carport – 929 Pleasantville Rd.
• Demolition and Parking – 955 Lincoln Ave.

The Historic Lancaster Commission approved the minutes from the May 20 meeting. It approved an awning replacement at 105 N. Columbus St. in Black Cherry and a signage application for the parking lot at 230 N. Columbus St., both unanimously. Administrative approvals were granted for a fence replacement at 333 N. Broad St. and a lean‑to carport at 929 Pleasantville Rd. Applications for demolition at 955 Lincoln Ave. and window replacement at 214/216 S. Columbus St. remain tabled.

• Approved May 20 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved awning replacement at 105 N. Columbus St. (Black Cherry) (unanimous)
• Approved signage application for 230 N. Columbus St. parking lot (unanimous)
• Approved fence replacement at 333 N. Broad St. (administrative)
• Approved lean‑to carport at 929 Pleasantville Rd. (administrative)
• Demolition and parking application at 955 Lincoln Ave. remains tabled
• Window replacement application at 214/216 S. Columbus St. remains tabled

Water & Water Pollution Committee

The Water & Water Pollution Control Committee will consider authorizations to enter into construction contracts for SWP backflow valves, the Tiki Water Line, and the Lawrence St. Pump Station, as well as engineering contracts for the Western Transmission line and a Long Term Control Plan. A possible legislation to approve a change order for Kokosing to replace membranes in the Upper Hocking WPCF will also be discussed. The meeting includes an update on water ponding in Miller Park.

• Authorization to enter into construction contract for SWP backflow valves
• Authorization to enter into construction contract for Tiki Water Line
• Authorization to enter into construction contract for Lawrence St. Pump Station
• Authorization to enter into engineering contracts for Western Transmission line and Long Term Control Plan
• Possible legislation to authorize change order for Kokosing to install replacement membranes in the Upper Hocking WPCF

The committee reported that the council approved legislation to waive competitive bidding for the Upper Hocking water plant expansion and to advertise bids for the Ewing Run stream restoration. It also approved easement acceptance and contract authorizations for the Lateral D trunk sewer and Campground Road pump station projects, and confirmed loan approval for the Dewatering Facility Upgrade.

• Approved legislation to waive competitive bidding for the Upper Hocking WPCF expansion contract
• Approved legislation to advertise bids for the Ewing Run Stream Restoration project
• Approved legislation to accept easements for Lateral D Trunk Sewer Phase II and Campground Road Pump Station
• Approved legislation to enter into construction contracts for Lateral D Trunk Sewer Phase II and Campground Road Pump Station
• Approved loan application for the Dewatering Facility Upgrade

City Planning Commission

The Lancaster City Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on two zoning requests: a change of zoning by JFM Excavation, LLC for 316 Sylvan Avenue and 1117 W. Mulberry Street, and a series of zoning amendments by the City of Lancaster for numerous sites on E. Main Street, N. Columbus Street, N. Memorial Drive, and other locations. In new business, the commission will consider a final plat revision for the Taylor Commercial Subdivision west of Ety Road between Memorial Drive and Columbus Street, and a final plat for the Ewing Woods multi‑family development east of Sheridan Drive, south of Thomas Ewing Junior High School.

• Public hearing – Change of Zoning request by JFM Excavation, LLC for 316 Sylvan Ave & 1117 W. Mulberry St.
• Public hearing – Zoning & zoning amendment request by City of Lancaster for multiple sites including 1568‑1582 E. Main St, 300‑318 N. Columbus St, 301‑434 N. Memorial Dr, 872 E. Wheeling St, 113 N. Cherry St, 1540 Campground Rd, 2130 W. Fair Ave, several N. Columbus St parcels, multiple E. Locust St parcels, and S. Maple St parcels.
• New business – Final Plat Revision for Taylor Commercial Subdivision west of Ety Rd. between Memorial Dr. and Columbus St.
• New business – Final Plat for Ewing Woods Development (multi‑family) east of Sheridan Dr., south of Thomas Ewing Junior High School.

The commission approved a zoning change for JFM Excavation, converting its property to an Advanced Manufacturing District. It also adopted a package of zoning map changes and related code revisions affecting dozens of parcels and several zoning provisions. Additionally, the commission approved a final plat revision for the Taylor Commercial Subdivision. All motions passed with unanimous votes.

• Approved change of zoning for JFM Excavation property to Advanced Manufacturing District (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of multiple parcels (e.g., East Main St, N. Columbus St, N. Memorial Dr, etc.) to Commercial Neighborhood or other appropriate districts (unanimous)
• Approved proposed zoning code revisions, including lot coverage, sign regulations, ADU allowances, lighting standards, and smoke‑shop rules (unanimous)
• Approved final plat revision for Taylor Commercial Subdivision, splitting Lot 1 and adding easement conditions (unanimous)

City Council

The Lancaster City Council will hold a special meeting to discuss the differences between operating as a charter city and a statutory city. The agenda also includes standard procedural items such as prayer, pledge of allegiance, roll call, and possible executive session.

• Charter City vs. Statutory City Discussion

The special meeting on June 10, 2026 was an educational session about statutory versus charter municipalities, presented by attorneys from Bricker Graydon Wyatt LLP. Law Director Stephanie Hall offered a rebuttal favoring the current statutory structure. No ordinances, resolutions, or votes were taken during the meeting.

Finance Committee

The Lancaster Finance Committee will consider several temporary resolutions, including three readings of the Lawrence Street Pump Station Replacement Project and the South Water Plant Backflow Project, as well as a two‑reading appropriation for a Water department retirement. The committee will also conduct three readings each of ordinances amending the non‑union pay ordinance #64-25 and the management pay ordinance #63-25. Other items on the agenda are listed as suspended or have no further detail.

• Temp Res #58-26 – Lawrence Street Pump Station Replacement Project (3 readings)
• Temp Res #59-26 – South Water Plant Backflow Project (3 readings)
• Temp Res #60-26 – Appropriation for a Water department retirement (2 readings)
• Temp Ord #18-26 – Amending non‑union pay ordinance #64-25 (3 readings)
• Temp Ord #19-26 – Amending management pay ordinance #63-25 (3 readings)

City Council

The Lancaster City Council will vote on a series of resolutions and ordinances, including a $300,525,000 asset‑management agreement with BP Energy for the Lancaster Port Authority gas supply revenue bonds. Additional items cover design‑build contracts for the South Water Treatment Plant, bids for the Tiki Lane water line replacement, and grant authorizations for electric‑vehicle feasibility and community projects. Several measures also amend appropriations and declare emergencies.

• Temp Ord #13-26 authorizes the city to negotiate an asset‑management arrangement with BP Energy for $300,525,000 Lancaster Port Authority gas supply revenue bonds and to engage legal services (emergency declared).
• Temp Res #47-26 authorizes the Service‑Safety Director to enter a design‑build contract using grant funds for energy upgrades at the South Water Treatment Plant rehabilitation.
• Temp Res #48-26 authorizes advertising for bids for the Tiki Lane water line replacement project.
• Temp Res #56-26 authorizes a memorandum of understanding with Fairfield County for ODOT reimbursement grant funds for an electric‑vehicle feasibility study and acceptance of Ohio Transit Partnership Program grant funds (emergency declared).
• Temp Res #57-26 authorizes the Service‑Safety Director to accept 2026 AARP Community Grant Challenge funds (emergency declared).

The council passed four temporary resolutions authorizing design‑build contracts, bid advertisements, and engineering amendments for water system projects, each with a 10‑0 vote. It also suspended rules to waive readings and then approved a resolution for special assessments for energy improvement projects, both with 10‑0 votes. All actions were recorded as third‑reading approvals.

• Approved Temporary Resolution 47-26 (design‑build contract for South Water Treatment Plant) 10-0
• Approved Temporary Resolution 48-26 (advertise bids for Tiki Lane water line replacement) 10-0
• Approved Temporary Resolution 49-26 (engineering contract amendment for Tiki Lane water line) 10-0
• Approved Temporary Resolution 50-26 (advertise bids for Lawrence Street pump station replacement) 10-0
• Suspended rules and waived second/third reading of Temporary Resolution 61-26 (special assessments for energy projects) 10-0
• Passed Temporary Resolution 61-26 after suspension (special assessments for energy projects) 10-0

Safety Committee

The Lancaster Safety Committee will hear departmental updates at its June 5, 2026 meeting. The Police Department will report on the St. Mary SRO program and a potential AED update. The Fire Department will report on legislation related to LCO 133.02. No formal decisions are listed; the agenda consists of informational updates and routine procedural items.

• Police Department: Update on St. Mary SRO program
• Police Department: Potential AED update
• Fire Department: Update on LCO 133.02 legislation

The committee heard updates from the Police Department on the proposed St. Mary SRO program and a potential AED funding source. The Fire Department reported on a draft ordinance to modernize a 1952 mutual‑aid ordinance. Both pieces of legislation were noted as having the committee's support, but no formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Park Board

The Lancaster Park Board will review its budget, approve bills, and consider financing for the Bowers construction estimate. It will also discuss leveling a new pickleball court and address old business on the Bowers property development. Additional topics include language for public sites and open spaces and other park financing options.

• Bowers Construction Estimate – discussion of financing
• Pickleball Court Leveling
• Bowers property development – old business
• Discussion of new Public Sites & Open Spaces language
• Discussion of park financing options

The board approved the May 2026 meeting minutes and ratified payment of Parks Department expenses, both by unanimous vote. The board also decided to keep the Bowers Property Development item on the agenda for future discussion. All motions were adopted without dissent and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved May 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved and ratified Parks Department expense payments (unanimous)
• Kept Bowers Property Development item on agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Tree Commission

The Lancaster Tree Commission will receive the forester’s report and consider requests for pruning, tree and stump removals, sidewalk program issues, storm‑related concerns, and tree replacement or planting. The commission will also review the status of planting and removal permits issued to date. No specific actions are listed as pending decisions.

• Pruning requests at 744 E. Fifth Ave, 1236 Fredrick St, and 734 Lanreco
• Tree and stump removals at 2294 Greencrest Way, 106 Thomas Ave, 1139 Forest Rose, 525 Shasta Dr, 1221 W. Seventh, 431 Westview, 1802 W. Sixth Ave, 531 E. Fifth Ave, 238 S. Maple, and Mt. Pleasant
• Sidewalk program issues (no specific locations listed)
• Storm‑related tree concerns at 343 E. Allen and Maple St
• Tree replacement/planting at 228 Perry St, 1147 Forest Rose, and Memorial Trees

The commission received a forester report, updates on tree maintenance, removal of dead trees, and replacement of memorial trees. It discussed sidewalk replacement plans on East Main Street and the possibility of planting trees in the resulting tree lawns. Proposals for a tree inventory were sent to three companies, and homeowner door‑hanger information was reviewed. No actions were approved, denied, or voted on.

Administrative Services Committee (fka IT/Telecom Committee)

The committee will hear updates from IT/Telecom, GIS, HR, and the SSD on ongoing and new projects and upcoming legislation. The Mayor will also provide remarks. The agenda includes time for new and old business, but no specific actions are listed.

• IT/Telecom – ongoing and completed projects; new projects
• GIS – ongoing and completed projects; new projects
• HR – FMC Wellness Clinic; HR stats; worker’s comp
• SSD – upcoming legislation
• Mayor – remarks

The committee reviewed IT project progress, GIS software renewal costs, HR hiring and workers' comp savings, and upcoming public works legislation. No substantive approvals, denials, or policy changes were voted on. The meeting was adjourned by a motion from Alayna Hoop, seconded by Kate Smiley.

• Adjourned meeting (motion by Alayna Hoop, seconded by Kate Smiley)

Historic Lancaster Commission

The Historic Lancaster Commission will review four new project proposals for improvements at 240 W. Main St., 207 W. Main St., 417 N. Broad St., and 144 E. Main St. It will also revisit two prior projects: demolition and parking at 955 Lincoln Ave. and window replacement at 214/216 S. Columbus St. Residents may address the commission before these items are considered.

• CA-00573 – 240 W. Main St.: landscaping beds, walls, concrete features, benches, fencing, screening walls, lighting
• CA-00574 – 207 W. Main St.: install gazebo
• CA-00575 – 417 N. Broad St.: repair siding and paint
• CA-00576 – 144 E. Main St.: signage
• CA-00552 – 955 Lincoln Ave.: demolition and parking (old business)

The Historic Lancaster Commission approved the hardscape, lighting, benches, bollards, trash cans and bike racks for the 240 W. Main St. development. It rejected the gazebo application for Downtown Fruit Passions. It also approved a siding repair project on 417 N. Broad St. and a signage replacement at 144 E. Main St. All approvals were unanimous; the gazebo motion failed unanimously with one abstention.

• Approved minutes from the April 15, 2026 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved hardscape, Galleon light fixtures, benches, bollards, trash cans, bike racks for 240 W. Main St. (unanimous)
• Rejected gazebo installation at Downtown Fruit Passions (failed unanimous; Bryan abstained)
• Approved siding repair and paint for 417 N. Broad St. (unanimous)
• Approved signage replacement at 144 E. Main St. (unanimous; Bryan abstained)
• CA-00552 demolition and parking application remains tabled per applicant request
• CA-00558 window replacement application remains tabled per applicant request

Finance Committee

The Lancaster Finance Committee meeting on May 18, 2026 will consider several temporary resolutions and ordinances. Items include an employee retirement resolution, a suspension of employee health‑insurance premiums, a CDBG 2026 Action Plan, an appropriation of funds for LDOT as part of the Main Street Sidewalk Project, a memorandum of understanding with the county on public‑transit grants, and acceptance of a 2026 AARP Community Grant Challenge Fund. The committee will also review ordinances for a gas utility easement, an asset‑management arrangement related to LPA gas supply revenue bonds, and an amendment to the West End TIF Area Ordinance. No other discussion items are listed.

• Appropriation of funds for LDOT as part of Main Street Sidewalk Project (Temp Res #55-26)
• Acceptance of 2026 AARP Community Grant Challenge Funds (Temp Res #57-26)
• Amendment to West End TIF Area Ordinance (Temp Ord #14-26)
• Suspension of employee health‑insurance premiums (Temp Res #52-26)
• Employee retirement resolution (Temp Res #51-26)

City Council

The Lancaster City Council will read and vote on a series of temporary resolutions and ordinances. Key items include an asset‑management transaction for $300,525,000 of gas supply revenue bonds, issuance of up to $6.4 million notes for City Hall renovation, and several water‑system and transit funding actions. The council will also consider ordinances related to right‑of‑way acquisition and utility easements.

• Ordinance #13-26: authorize asset‑management arrangement for $300,525,000 gas supply revenue bonds
• Ordinance #10-26: authorize issuance of up to $6,400,000 notes for City Hall renovation
• Resolution #44-26: authorize advertising for bids on South Water Plant backflow valves project (emergency)
• Resolution #45-26: appropriate funds and loan for Frederick Street Sewer Separation project
• Resolution #56-26: authorize MOU for Ohio Transit Partnership grant for electric‑vehicle feasibility study

The council passed a resolution authorizing the mayor to enter a contract with the Fairfield County General Health District for public health services (9‑0). It also approved $543,000 for the fire department retirement line item and $200,000 for a new purchase order (both 9‑0). Additional resolutions authorized advertising for bids on the South Water Plant backflow valves project and a sewer‑separation engineering contract (each 9‑0). A rule‑suspension motion was carried to fast‑track a transit‑grant funding resolution (9‑0).

• Approved health services contract with Fairfield County General Health District (9-0)
• Appropriated $543,000 to fire department retirement line item (9-0)
• Appropriated $200,000 for 2026 purchase order (9-0)
• Authorized advertising for bids on South Water Plant backflow valves project (9-0)
• Authorized contract for engineering services on Columbus St & Wilson Ave sewer separation (9-0)
• Suspended rules to waive readings of transit grant resolution (9-0)
• Motion to excuse Mr. Carr from meeting carried
• Motions to receive and file minutes, reports, communications, and standing committee reports carried

Code Enforcement & Zoning Committee

The Code Enforcement & Zoning Committee meeting agenda lists a heading for proposed zoning changes but provides no specific details. The agenda also includes placeholders for new business, old business, and adjournment, but no concrete items are described. The meeting will primarily address the unspecified zoning proposals.

The May 15, 2026 Code Enforcement & Zoning Committee meeting was called to order at 7:30 AM. The agenda listed proposed zoning changes, new business, and old business, but no motions, votes, or decisions were recorded in the minutes. Consequently, no approvals, denials, or tablings were documented.

Service Committee

The Lancaster Service Committee meeting will include departmental updates from Parks, Sanitation, Utilities Collection Office, and Municipal Gas. No specific legislation or contracts are listed for decision. The agenda also contains standard new business, old business, and scheduling items.

The committee reviewed updates from the Parks, Sanitation, Utilities Collection, and Municipal Gas departments. No items were approved, denied, or tabled. The meeting concluded with an adjournment motion.

City Planning Commission

The Commission will hold a public hearing on a zoning change request for a 1.819‑acre parcel west of S. Memorial Drive (0 Eyman Avenue). It will also review subdivision variance requests for a 2.6303‑acre site at the corner of Main Street and Memorial Drive submitted by Fairfield Homes, Inc.

• Public hearing – zoning change request for 1.819‑acre parcel (0 Eyman Avenue) – petitioner The Biggs Group Limited LLC
• Subdivision variance requests for 2.6303‑acre parcel at Main Street and Memorial Drive – petitioner Fairfield Homes, Inc.

The commission voted unanimously to deny The Biggs Group Limited LLC’s request to change the zoning of 0 Eyman Avenue from Residential Transitional to Advanced Manufacturing. It then voted unanimously to approve Fairfield Homes’ variances for a front‑setback reduction and a right‑of‑way dedication at the Main Street and Memorial Drive site. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Denied rezoning of 0 Eyman Avenue to Advanced Manufacturing (unanimous)
• Approved front‑setback variance for Fairfield Homes at Main & Memorial (unanimous)
• Approved right‑of‑way dedication variance for Fairfield Homes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to hear seven specific cases. The meeting includes a roll call, approval of minutes, and an explanation of procedures.

• Case #00798 – 103 Cedar Hill Road
• Case #00799 – 1405 Conquest Street
• Case #00800 – 2551 East Main Street
• Case #00801 – 2567 East Main Street
• Case #00802 – 141 West Fair Avenue

Park Board

The Lancaster Board of Park Commissioners will discuss a new truck purchase, review the 2026 park budget expense and revenue report and approve bills, consider bandstand concerts planned for 2027, and address bidding preparation for the Bowers property development. Additional items include updates on park projects and a discussion of public‑sites language.

• New Truck Purchase Presentation
• Discussion of Bandstand Concerts 2027
• Park Budget expense/revenue report and bill approvals
• Bowers property development – bidding preparation and permissions
• Discussion of new public sites & open spaces language (tabbed business)

The Board unanimously approved the April 2026 meeting minutes and ratified payment of Parks Department expenses. It also unanimously approved a motion to allow a Jacob Parrott historical marker in Veterans Square Park. Other items, such as the new truck purchase and bandstand concerts, were discussed but no new actions were taken.

• Approved April 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved and ratified payment of Parks Department expenses (unanimous)
• Approved placement of Jacob Parrott historical marker in Veterans Square (unanimous)
• New truck purchase presentation was informational; purchase previously approved (no action)
• Bandstand concerts 2027 discussion deferred; Board will seek further information (no decision)
• Bowers Property Development bidding permission pending; special meeting may be called (no decision)
• Miller Park stakeholder meeting scheduled (informational)
• Public Sites & Open Spaces language and park financing options tabled (no decision)

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission will approve the minutes from the April 9, 2026 meeting. It will discuss a possible change to the vendor that handles fire department promotions. The commission will also review the Rules and Regulations document and handle routine agenda items such as general discussion and scheduling the next meeting.

• Approve prior meeting minutes of April 9, 2026
• Discuss a potential change in Fire Department Promotion Vendor
• Review of Rules and Regulations Document

The Civil Service Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the May 5, 2026 meeting. It also unanimously approved retaining RC Fire & EMS Solutions to provide testing services for the Lancaster Fire Department. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved May 5, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved retention of RC Fire & EMS Solutions for fire department testing (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing several resolutions related to water and pollution control projects. These include bids for water line and pump station replacements and a design-build contract for energy upgrades.

• Temp Res #47-26: Design Build contract for SWTP energy upgrade grant funds
• Temp Res #48-26: Tike Lane water line replacement project bid
• Temp Res #49-26: Tiki Lane water line replacement project administration
• Temp Res #50-26: Lawrence Street pump station replacement project bid
• Temp Ord #11-26: Edits and inclusions to City Codified Ordinances

City Council

The City Council will consider resolutions for water line replacements, sewer separation projects, and a $6.4 million bond issuance for City Hall renovation. The meeting also includes a public health contract and emergency appropriations for fire department retirement.

• Authorize $6.4M bond issuance for City Hall renovation
• Authorize South Water Plant rehabilitation contract
• Authorize Tiki Lane water line replacement project
• Authorize Columbus Street & Wilson Avenue sewer separation
• Authorize South Water Plant backflow valves project

The council conducted second readings of several temporary resolutions and ordinances, including a $6.4 million note‑issuance ordinance to fund City Hall renovation. A motion to pay a $51.25 bill was approved, and the meeting was adjourned. No final votes or adoption decisions were recorded for the resolutions.

• Second reading of Resolution Temporary 41-26 (public health services contract) – proceeded
• Second reading of Resolution Temporary 42-26 (fire department retirement emergency) – proceeded
• Second reading of Resolution Temporary 43-26 (fire levy emergency) – proceeded
• Second reading of Ordinance Temporary 10-26 (issue $6.4M notes for City Hall renovation) – proceeded
• Second reading of Ordinance Temporary 9-26 (right‑of‑way acquisition for East Main Street project) – proceeded
• Motion to pay bill PO 8-26 ($51.25) – carried
• Motion to adjourn the meeting – carried

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will hear general updates from the Economic Development Department. The Community Development Department will present a budget summary, upcoming legislation, CHIP application information, a CDBG annual action plan update, and CDBG project updates. Representatives from the Lancaster Fairfield Chamber of Commerce, Visit Fairfield County, and Destination Downtown Lancaster will also provide updates.

• Economic Development Department – general updates
• Community Development Department – budget summary
• Community Development Department – upcoming legislation
• Community Development Department – CHIP application information
• Community Development Department – CDBG annual action plan update

The Economic Development Committee reviewed a proposed Asset Management Agreement with BP for Lancaster Gas natural gas supply operations. Members were briefed on the agreement’s purpose, BP’s day‑to‑day responsibilities, and possible benefits such as business continuity and modest revenue. No vote or formal decision was made; the agreement will require future Council approval after legal review.

Tree Commission

The Tree Commission will review a list of pruning, removal, and sidewalk projects for the month. The agenda includes reports on storm issues, tree replacements, and a request for proposals for a tree inventory.

• Pruning at 302 Reber Ave, 727 Oakwood Ave, and 741 Washington Ave
• Tree removals at 315 S. Columbus St, 127 E. Fifth Ave, and 429 Washington Ave
• Sidewalk program at 1785 Fern Trail and 902 Second St
• Request for Proposals (RFP) for Tree Inventory
• St. Mary's/Firehouse Park Clean Up & Education

The commission reviewed recent tree maintenance, removals, and replacements throughout the city and parks. They discussed a sidewalk repair concern at 750 N Broad St and the status of a $75,000 ODNR grant application. No votes, approvals, or other formal decisions were recorded.

City Council

The Lancaster City Council meeting on April 20, 2026 will consider several temporary resolutions and ordinances, including a $6.4 million note issuance for City Hall renovation. The council will also vote on a resolution authorizing the mayor to participate in national opioid settlements with multiple pharmaceutical companies. Additional items include appropriations for a new front‑load garbage truck, a contract for public health services with Fairfield County General Health District, and a sewer‑separation project on Columbus Street & Wilson Avenue. Ordinances covering the Victory Commons development plat and right‑of‑way acquisition for the East Main Street shoulder widening are also on the agenda.

• Temp Ord #10-26: authorize issuance of $6,400,000 notes for City Hall renovation (Finance Committee)
• Temp Res #38-26: authorize mayor to enter agreements for national opioid settlements with listed companies (Law Committee)
• Temp Res #40-26: appropriate funds from the unencumbered balance for purchase of a new front‑load garbage truck (Sanitation Fund)
• Temp Res #46-26: authorize contract for engineering services on Columbus Street & Wilson Avenue sewer separation project (Water & Water Pollution Control Committee)
• Temp Ord #9-26: authorize mayor to acquire right‑of‑way for East Main Street shoulder widening and new sidewalks (Public Works Committee)

The council approved Temporary Resolution 38-26, allowing the mayor to enter the national opioid settlement and recover funds for the city. It also approved Temporary Resolution 40-26, appropriating money from the unencumbered balance to purchase a new front‑load garbage truck for the sanitation department. Both resolutions passed unanimously. Additional routine motions to receive minutes, reports and to excuse the president were also carried.

• Excused President Jeff Porter from the meeting (motion carried)
• Received and filed April 6 minutes (motion carried)
• Received and filed reports of city officials (motion carried)
• Received and filed communications (motion carried)
• Approved Temporary Resolution 38-26 authorizing opioid settlement participation (10-0)
• Suspended rules and waived third reading of Temporary Resolution 40-26 (10-0)
• Approved Temporary Resolution 40-26 to fund new garbage truck (10-0)
• Received and filed standing committee reports (motion carried)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several temporary resolutions, including a health department contract for 2027, design services for a new fire station, and multiple sewer separation and water plant projects. It will also consider two temporary ordinances: a right-of-way acquisition for the Main Street sidewalk project and the issuance and sale of notes to fund City Hall renovation in 2027.

• Health Department contract for 2027 (Temp Res #41-26)
• Design services for new fire station (Temp Res #43-26)
• South Water Plant Backflow Valves Project (Temp Res #44-26)
• Frederick Street Sewer Separation Project (Temp Res #45-26)
• City Hall Renovation issuance and sale of notes for 2027 (Temp Ord #10-26)