- Anyone who follows along my blog and Facebook likely already know that the rezoning of Fox Den Golf Course passed by a vote of 6 to 1 (Adaska voted no). This rezoning is very important to me as Fox Den Golf Course is in my ward and any potential development of this property would directly affect so many Ward 2 residents and families. This will provide peace of mind to those living around and those who enjoy using the golf course.
- Last night Lt. Jeff Cochran was presented with a proclamation from the city to recognize his efforts in writing grants that have benefited both citizens and firefighters and EMS crews. In the past 9 years Lt. Cochran was successful in writing grants that resulted in the award of $1.5 million for training, equipment, and additional staff. Grant writing is no easy task and requires both research and persuasive writing skills. Lt. Cochran volunteered for this task and does so around his regular duties at the department. I am please to see his efforts recognized in council and public though I am sure his co-workers around him have been aware and thankful of his efforts for many years!
- The 3rd reading and vote for the car storage lot on Kent Road was completed. This passed by a vote of 5-2 (Riehl and myself voted no). My no vote on this issue goes to the language in our zoning code and has nothing to do with the party requesting this zoning approval. I feel the intent of allowing outdoor storage in the I-1 district is to not allow outdoor storage as a principal use. The law department did provide an opinion on this topic and they felt that the code was poorly written and provided to much ambiguity regarding storage as indoor or outdoor. I am reviewing the code section and working with the law department to amend this code section to clear up any ambiguity.
- Council also approved entering into the Akron-Summit County Energy Special Improvement District (ESID). The ESID is current just for commercial, non-profit, and government properties for energy improvements on their facilities that is financed through property assessment in lieu of debt. There is also a residential component of this program that the city could enter into in the future. This type of legislation does not have much direct impact on the city but could be a valuable tool for property owners to make energy improvements to their property. For more information on this program, please click here.
- There was a 1st reading of a new medical office building 0n Fishcreek Road. There were several residents that live to the east of the property that are concerned with the drainage pond on the property and the privacy between their property and this new development. Parties from both sides agreed to meet and discuss the issues and see if they can agree on a solution that would be agreeable to both parties.
- Council President Riehl made 3 appointments to the SKiP Park Committee, Jennifer Coleman, Jonathan Leissler, and David Miller. The Public Improvements Committee discussed the Mayor’s appointments to the SKiP Committee under the legislation, however, they didn’t make it out of committee. I hope this issue can get resolved so the SKiP Committee can move forward to discuss the future of the city center property.
- Council approved a $500 donation for the Washington D.C. trip for the Stow Munroe Falls Close-Up Program. This program allows students to attend congressional sessions and meet with legislators. I support any program that gets our youth more involved and interested in the government at any level.
The next Council meeting will be on the third Thursday of the month–Thursday November 21, 2019 at 7 PM.