Additional pick-ups thereafter, including those made for yard debris, will be billed to the property owner at $100 each.
Trees and other vegetation are an important part of Oakwood's ambiance, but proper maintenance is essential for reasons of public safety and community aesthetics. Code Enforcement Officer Ethan Kroger conducts city-wide sidewalk inspections twice each year to identify locations where trees or vegetation are encroaching public sidewalks. Oakwood is a walkable and bike-friendly community, and sidewalk encroachments can force walkers and bikers into the street if they are not able to pass. If a sidewalk encroachment is minor, Mr. Kroger may trim it on the spot. If it is more significant, then a yellow tag will be left at the address that allows five days for the trimming to take place. If not corrected within five days, Oakwood Public Works may be called in to trim, depending upon the severity of the encroachment. Oakwood's goal is to have safe and passable sidewalks for resident enjoyment.
The Oakwood Beautification Award Program recognizes residential, business and rental property owners who enhance the beauty of Oakwood by making landscaping or building improvements. Properties are nominated by citizens or staff, and judged by members of the Oakwood Property Maintenance Board. Awards are given May through August, and are publicized in the Oakwood Scene newsletter, on the City's website, in the Oakwood Register, and properties receive a sign in their yard. Recognition at an Oakwood Council meeting will be done this fall.
The Vectren gas line work that began in late spring replacing underground gas distribution pipes in areas around Monteray Avenue, Hillview Avenue and Triangle Avenue has been completed. Yard restorations are currently underway on these streets. The work on East Drive that involves a large trench being dug and a new 16" pipe installed is underway. The work on Shafor Boulevard to Hathaway Road has been completed, and work continues in the next block to the east. Asphalt roadway restoration will follow. Public Works Foreman Tom Long has been working with Vectren to ensure the work is completed safely, and with the least impact to Oakwood residents. Residents are encouraged to contact Tom Long if they have any questions or concerns.
The Element Oakwood condos are currently in the foundation stage, after having to address unplanned drainage issues. The next steps include underground plumbing, and residents can expect to see framing work by late August.
The original approval for the Russell Wealth Management development from November 2017 for a 22,000, 3-story office building has lapsed. The Oakwood Planning Commission recommended approval of a smaller office building that City Council will review at the August 6 meeting.
Kettering Health Network bought the 2600 Far Hills Building in April 2017. While no building or zoning applications have been received to date, the plans remain to establish medical offices there.
Morning Sun Florist, 2411 Far Hills Avenue (formerly Rife's Jewelers), is completing exterior finishes and interior remodeling. The planned opening is scheduled for September.
Goodwill, 2322 Far Hills Avenue, opened in December 2017. While there have not been any parking complaints since opening, in an effort to encourage patrons to use the parking lot located just to the south of the store, Goodwill will be placing a sign directing store patrons to the Goodwill parking lot.
Mrs. Wilder then reviewed the 2018 employee retirements and hires. PSO Mike Russell retired on April 15 with 25 years of service in public safety, 18 of those years at the city of Oakwood. PSO George Williams retired on May 24, with 21 years of service in public safety, seven of those years at the city of Oakwood. New hires include: PSO Justin Slone; Old River Maintenance Worker Alex Schooler; PSO Jesse Shaffer; OCC Receptionist Marvel Ellcessor; and Public Works General Service Worker Troy Gearhart.
The Oakwood Farmers' Market is currently open on Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. through October 20. The market is located on Orchard Drive in the public municipal parking lot. More information is available on the Oakwood Farmers' Market website or Facebook page.
As a free service to Oakwood citizens, the City has contracted with Shred-It to be on-site at the Public Works Center at 210 Shafor Boulevard on Saturday, September 29, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. to provide document destruction services. The Oakwood Public Safety Department has installed a locked prescription drug drop-off box in the lobby entrance to the city building located at 30 Park Avenue. This drop box offers a way for residents to conveniently dispose of