The Oakwood Inclusion Coalition (OIC) had its first general membership meeting on Wednesday, January 27. About 100 people attended the virtual meeting via the Zoom platform. The OIC’s success will depend on being able to connect with a broad base of Oakwood citizens and bringing varied voices and opinions to the table to discuss difficult topics and issues. This is a meaningful organization for Oakwood to help address inclusion, diversity and equity. The OIC will meet on a quarterly basis. The next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 28. Mr. Klopsch recognized Josh Green for volunteering his time to create the OIC website at www.oakwoodic.org.
The Public Works Department put in quite some overtime hours to address the snow and ice conditions over the past weekend. As a reminder, to the extent possible, vehicles should be removed off of the street when heavy snowfall is predicted. It is safer and easier to remove snow when the streets are clear of vehicles.
Mr. Klopsch closed his comments by sharing that he and Finance Director Cindy Stafford are finalizing the 2021 budget book. The document should be posted on the City website either later this week or early next week. The budget book contains a lot of valuable information about all matters related to city finances.
Councilmember Leigh Turben thanked Council for the opportunity to serve on Oakwood City Council. She said that it is an honor and privilege to serve the Oakwood citizens.
Mr. Stephens shared that it was an honor to serve with Judge-elect Epley over 6 ½ years and thanked him for the professionalism and wisdom he brought to Council. Mr. Stephens welcomed Mrs. Turben to City Council and said that he looks forward to working with her.
Vice Mayor Byington thanked all of the citizens who applied for the vacant city council position. The applications demonstrated talent, skill, dedication and a love of the Oakwood community. Vice Mayor Byington commended Mrs. Healy Jackson, an applicant who was in the audience, for everything she does for the community. Vice Mayor Byington congratulated Mr. Epley for being elected as a judge and said that he believes Mr. Epley will do great things. Vice Mayor Byington closed his comments by welcoming Mrs. Turben and stating that he is looking forward to working with her.
Mr. Klopsch publicly recognized Mrs. Jackson for her contributions to the Oakwood Inclusion Coalition.
Mayor Duncan added that Mrs. Jackson also serves on the Oakwood Planning Commission.
Mayor Duncan opined that Mr. Epley will be a great judge because he has the ability to look at both sides of an issue logically and without bias or prejudice. Mayor Duncan stated that Mrs. Turben has been active with the Oakwood Historical Society and was a member of the 35-member Budget Review Committee. He said that he looks forward to working with her. Mayor Duncan shared that he officiated his first 2021 wedding ceremony. He noted that he does not charge for his services, but asks that a donation be made to the Oakwood Historical Society. Mayor Duncan closed his comments by saying that he looks forward to continuing to serve the city of Oakwood.
The public meeting concluded at 8:17 p.m.
