b.
In 2022, TOHS, with assistance from the city, embarked on a new project to install a series of historical markers around the city. The first marker is located in front of the city building and commemorates the 150th anniversary of the platting in 1872 of the original “Town of Oakwood”. The second marker is located in front of what is now The Little Exchange and commemorates the “First Public Library Building.”
4.
Identify opportunities for new or expanded public services to better address specific citizen needs and to enhance the overall quality of life within Oakwood and help attract new families and small businesses.
a.
The city continuously seeks ways to enhance existing public services or implement new ones. The following are several examples:
i.
In 2021, the Oakwood Public Safety Department began the “Good Choice Ticket Program” to recognize good choices being made by Oakwood’s youth.
ii.
In 2020, the Leisure Services Department launched a new and automated system that allows residents to quickly and conveniently register for events and activities.
iii.
In 2019, the Safety Department established the ACORN (Assisting and Contributing to Oakwood Resident Needs) program. The ACORN program is designed to assist senior citizens and others with special needs. The goal of the program is to provide peace of mind through proactive community outreach, implementing safety plans, and advocating for the well-being of Oakwood’s senior and at-risk population.
iv.
In 2019, the Oakwood Finance Department implemented automated, user-friendly and “green” ways for citizens and businesses to receive and pay monthly utility bills.
v.
In 2017, the city installed a drop-off box for the safe and proper disposal of prescription drugs. The container is located at the entrance to the city building, adjacent to the public safety dispatch office and is available 24/7.
vi.
Over the years, the city has taken numerous actions to address matters of sustainability. A comprehensive list of these sustainability measures can be found on the city website.
5.
Cooperate with nearby communities, other governmental agencies, and public and private agencies to improve and expand the range and quality of public services and facilities available to Oakwood residents.
a.
The city is a charter member of the Miami Valley Communications Council (MVCC) and continues to be an active member of that local Council of Governments
b.
City staff regularly interacts with other area jurisdictions and agencies to seek ways in which to improve public services. A significant example is the GATEway Fiber Project. Over the past several years, the city, as a member of the MVCC, has been an active participant in the design and construction of a regional fiber optics communications network that will enhance the communications and IT infrastructure in the Dayton region.
6. PARKS and OPEN SPACE
Goal: