Variance Standards: Mr. Jacques explained proposed changes to the City variance standards that will be presented to the Planning Commission at their meeting this week. The Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing and make a recommendation on the matter. That recommendation will be presented to City Council at the July 16 meeting. Mr. Jacques explained that the variance standard changes are in a large part in response to court decisions on land use matters.

Shafor Park Tennis Courts: Mr. Klopsch reported that construction continues on the tennis court reconstruction project. The work is currently about five days behind schedule, but the contractor believes that time can be recovered over the next few weeks. The goal is to have this project completed by late July or early August, in time for the Oakwood High School fall tennis season. Mr. Klopsch added that the City and Architect/Engineering Consultant are reviewing a requested change order on removal of the old tennis court.

Refuse and Recycling: Mr. Klopsch commented on the procedures used by the Public Works Department in collecting weekly refuse and recycling. Oakwood remains a leader in Montgomery County in terms of the volume of weekly recycling.

Northview Sewer Repair: Mr. Klopsch mentioned that staff recently met with the investigator from the Bureau of Workers Compensation to receive findings on the Northview trench incident investigation. The investigator noted that the City has a good safety program and that the findings would focus on improvements to safety training. There will be no fines issues in regards to the incident. The trench was measured at 5 ½ feet deep. The maximum depth for trench access without trench shoring equipment is 5 feet.

Oakwood Avenue Guardrail: Mr. Klopsch explained that the Public Works Department is planning to install about 100 feet of guardrail on the west side of Oakwood Avenue just north of Thornhill Road. This guardrail will provide protection along the roadway edge adjacent to a drainage culvert.

MVCC, Mr. Epley

Fiber Optic Project: Mr. Stephens mentioned that the Executive Committee of MVCC will have a meeting soon to discuss the fiber optic project and the performance of Executive Director Brian Humphress.

First Suburbs, Vice Mayor Byington

2018 Priorities: Mr. Klopsch confirmed that Council received the City’s ranking on 2018 First Suburbs priorities.