MINUTES - OAKWOOD CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION

The Council of the City of Oakwood, Ohio, met in a work session on Monday, June 15, 2026, at the Long-Romspert Homestead/House Museum, 1947 Far Hills Avenue. The Mayor of the City, William Duncan, presided.

Council members present were Mayor William Duncan, Vice Mayor Steve Byington, Healy Jackson, and Sam Dorf. Council Member Leigh Turben was excused absent. Staff present were City Manager Katie Smiddy and Law Director Rob Jacques. Also attending for a portion of the meeting were Ann Febus, Karen Bartlett, and Andy Lloyd of the Oakwood Historical Society.

Mayor Duncan called the work session to order at 4:30 p.m. and began the meeting with a self-guided tour of the Long-Romspert Homestead/House Museum followed by a short presentation on the Society's current activities and challenges. Upon conclusion of the presentation, the Society representatives departed the meeting and Council remained with City staff to continue the work session.

Annual Report Draft Review

Mrs. Smiddy distributed an updated draft of the Annual Report and outlined a timeline for Council to provide additional comments and revisions.

MVRPC E-Bike Discussion

Mrs. Smiddy informed Council that she, along with Chief Hill and Mr. Jacques, will attend a Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission (MVRPC) discussion on e-bikes on Thursday.

School Renovation Planning

Mrs. Smiddy provided an update on the planning process for renovations to Smith and Harman Elementary Schools. Council discussed the advantages and disadvantages of several preliminary options currently under consideration.

Police Officers Memorial Fund Contribution

Mrs. Smiddy requested confirmation of the City's contribution to the Police Officers Memorial Fund. Council reached consensus to contribute $2,500.

Dayton Country Club Mowing Concerns

Mr. Jacques reported on resident concerns regarding mowing practices at the Dayton Country Club. The issue appears to have been resolved through an agreement with the City of Kettering regarding maintenance standards for naturalized areas on golf course properties.

20 Rubicon Road Lease Status

Mrs. Smiddy updated Council on the School Board's lease for 20 Rubicon Road, noting that the Board has not fully vacated the property. Council engaged in an extended discussion on the matter.

Old River Field Study Update

Mrs. Smiddy reported that a preliminary study of the Old River grass fields has been completed. Current usage levels may be unsustainable without significant investment. Discussions with the Oakwood United Soccer Association are ongoing, and the City is awaiting the final portion of the study, which will include recommendations and improvement options.