There is no “conveyance” because neither lot is changing ownership...they are simply being merged under the same ownership.

This is a common-sense amendment that eliminates an unnecessary formal review process. It will allow for these kinds of boundary adjustments to be made more quickly and at a lower cost to the property owner.

This was a first reading of the ordinance, so Vice Mayor Byington made no motion.

A copy of the ordinance, having been placed on the desks of each member of Council prior to introduction, was read by title.

Vice Mayor Byington explained that this a supplemental appropriation ordinance that is necessary to address fire insurance proceeds that came into the city’s possession after Council adopted the 2024 budget and appropriation ordinance.

As required by the State of Ohio, Oakwood established a Fire Insurance Trust Fund in 1981. The fund functions much like an escrow account except that it is non-interest-bearing. When a property in the city is damaged by fire, the property owner’s insurance company sends a portion of the insurance proceeds to the city. We hold it in the Fire Insurance Trust Fund until repairs are completed, and then it is turned over to the insured property owner, minus any costs the city might incur to secure or make the structure safe before repairs are completed.

In November, there was a fire at 447 Orchard Avenue that resulted in an insured loss, and the city recently received $31,254.89 from the owner’s insurance company. This supplemental appropriation will allow us to disburse that money to the property owner after the repairs are completed and making any deductions required by law.

Thereupon, it was moved by Vice Mayor Byington and seconded by Mr. Stephens that the second reading be waived and that the ordinance be passed tonight.

Upon call of the roll on the question of the motion, the following vote was recorded:

There being five (5) yea votes and no (0) nay votes thereon, said ordinance was declared duly passed and it was so ordered.

Public Works Department Presentation: Mr. Doug Spitler, P.E., Public Works Director, referenced a PowerPoint presentation and updated Council on various Public Works projects and operations.

The large storm sewer project along Far Hills Avenue has been an ongoing and challenging project for the community because of the traffic disruptions on Far Hills Avenue. Mr. Spitler shared a few images that show the complexity of the project.

The multi-year CenterPoint (formerly Vectren) project that began in 2010 was completed last year. All of the underground gas distribution pipes and home service lines in Oakwood have been renewed.