CenterPoint infrastructure replacement project in Oakwood scheduled to be completed in 2023. Oakwood residents personally affected by the work will receive detailed information from CenterPoint. Mrs. Wilder presented the CenterPoint project maps and mentioned that they are available on the City website and on CenterPoint’s website.

Point Broadband is a new utility provider that is planning to offer fiber-to-the-home service. Construction permits have been requested in Oakwood, but not yet issued. Point Broadband work will take place in the public right-of-way (including curb lawns) and in utility easements as they install utility cabinets and pedestals, as well as the fiber optic cable. The City will continue to share information about the project as it progresses via the City website, Facebook page, and at public meetings.

Pointe Oakwood construction began in 2009. There is currently one house under construction, and only two lots remain undeveloped.

Since August of 2021, the following businesses have opened their doors in Oakwood: Stance Physical Therapy, 2306 Far Hills Avenue; Maraluna, 2405 Far Hills Avenue; and VIP Smoke Shop, 6 Oakwood Avenue. Shoppe Smitten plans to open a location at 2316 Far Hills Avenue, along with Ordinarie Fare. 2533-2537 Far Hills Avenue has sold and is currently seeking new tenants. Also, in the Routsong Retail Center, a cookie bakery has announced their plans to open soon. Insomnia Cookies has submitted building permits and a Special Use application to the Oakwood Planning Commission for extended business hours.

The Oakwood Historical Society and the City of Oakwood will be unveiling the first historic marker commemorating the 1872 platting of the “Town of Oakwood” on Saturday, May 14 in front of the City Building on Park Avenue.

Mrs. Wilder reviewed staff updates and personnel recruitment. New hires include: Adam Jones, Water Technician; Ross Green, Public Safety Officer; Matt Staley, Public Safety Officer; Emily Kraft, Oakwood Community Center Office Assistant; Scott Gibbs, General Service Worker; and Greg Devers, General Service Worker. The City is currently recruiting in the following areas: Day Camp Counselors, Boulevard and Smith Gardens Maintenance; Public Works Laborers; Pool Concessions and Lifeguards; Public Safety Dispatcher; Part-time Groundskeeper; and Part-time Laborer. Job descriptions, wage information and applications are available on the City’s website.

Mrs. Hilton asked if the 347 permits issued in 2021 represented that many properties, or did some properties receive multiple permits.

Mrs. Wilder answered that the projects are typically through a single permit per property.

AN OAKWOOD MOMENT

Mrs. Hilton highlighted bicycling in Oakwood.

CITY MANAGER’S COMMENTS – Mr. Klopsch provided an update on the following items:

Mr. Klopsch recalled when CenterPoint (Vectren at the time) began the gas line replacement project in 2010. There are a now just two years remaining in the project. At the end of 2023, all of the underground natural gas distribution pipes and home service lines throughout Oakwood will be renewed.

Mr. Klopsch commented on the bicycle tool station that was displayed in the “An Oakwood Moment” presentation. He shared that the tool station was purchased through a grant from the Oakwood Rotary Club.

The annual Sidewalk, Curb and Driveway Apron Project will take place on the west side of the City, including all areas of Oakwood west of Far Hills Avenue. Public Works staff have begun marking the sidewalks and other concrete structures requiring repair, and residents will be notified in April of their responsibilities.

The 2022 Asphalt Pavement Program bid opening was on February 24. There were two bids received. The project will be awarded to Barrett Paving. The work will likely take place between June and August. Property owners in the project area will receive direct notification from the city regarding the repaving schedule.

The Far Hills Storm Sewer Reconstruction project will take place in 2023. The City recently sent letters to 130 property owners in the project areas with information about the upcoming field survey and engineering work.