landscapes” include enhancement of pollinator support habitat, stormwater management, carbon sequestration, erosion control, and preservation of biodiversity.” The updated code adds provisions to expressly authorize property owners to establish “managed natural landscape areas” on their property but, importantly, it does not give property owners permission to neglect their yards or allow them to “go wild.” The key concept behind a managed natural landscape area is that it must be “managed and maintained” as required by the new ordinance.

Dogipot Stations: In 2008, the city began installing stations throughout the city for disposal of dog waste. There are currently 15 stations maintained throughout the city for convenient and proper disposal of dog waste. These stations are heavily used, keeping the waste out of our waterways. A map of the station locations is available on the city website.

Wellfield Protection: In 1994, Oakwood City Council adopted a wellfield protection program in compliance with recommendations from the United States and Ohio Environmental Protection Agencies (EPA). The program includes: 1) an Aquifer Characterization and Protection Area Delineation Study; 2) a Potential Pollutant Source Inventory Report; and 3) a Drinking Water Source Protection Plan. The program included establishment of two new zoning districts… the Wellhead Operation District and the Well Field Protection Overlay District. The purpose of the program is to protect the aquifers from which the city’s water is drawn. It is fully endorsed by the Ohio EPA.

Electronic Communication and Document Storage: The city has taken multiple steps over the years to embrace the digital age, continuously looking for ways to operate the local government administrative functions in a manner that has the least impact on our environment. As an example, between 2009 and 2013 the city implemented electronic purchase orders, utility e-bills, direct deposits of payroll and emailing of paycheck stubs; and began routinely saving reports in pdf format rather than printing and maintaining hard copies.

Solar Power Electricity Generation: The city embraces the entrance of residential solar power generating systems in Oakwood and offers a simple and efficient permitting process for property owners interested in solar power installations. There are currently over 40 residential installations in Oakwood.