• COUNCIL COMMITTEES
    • Court Liaison, Mrs. Hilton
      • Zoom for Arraignments: Mr. Klopsch reported that the Oakwood Municipal Court is now using Zoom technology to conduct video arraignments of jailed defendants. The use of Zoom technology eliminates the need to consider purchasing other video arraignment equipment.
    • Planning & Zoning, Vice Mayor Byington
      • 201 E. Schantz and 429 Ridgewood: Mr. Klopsch mentioned that staff is planning to have land use cases previously approved 201 E. Schantz and 429 Ridgewood presented again to the Planning Commission for reconsideration. 201 E. Schantz was previously approved for construction of a carriage house, and 429 Ridgewood for a lot split. Both approvals are over one year old and neither property owner appears to have interest in moving forward on the projects. Vice Mayor Byington suggested that letters be sent to the property owners before scheduling the Planning Commission hearings.
      • Oakwood Schools: Mr. Klopsch mentioned that the schools erected two large tents at the Junior High/High School property for outdoor education. One tent measures 40’x 40’ and the other measures 30’ x 60’. Mr. Klopsch approved this temporary use consistent with Council legislation adopted at the July 20 public meeting. These uses are necessary to address social distancing requirements associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • Public Properties, Mr. Epley
      • W. Schantz and Far Hills Property: Mr. Klopsch commented on a project under consideration to improve the city-owned land at the northwest corner of W. Schantz and Far Hills. City staff, along with Councilmember Rob Stephens, is in discussions with the Oakwood Rotary Club and Oakwood Investment Group (OIG) to explore a cooperative venture that would result in creation of a passive park at this location. It is anticipated that a large portion of the cost for this project can be paid through a Rotary grant and funding from OIG.
      • Gardner Pool: Mr. Klopsch reported that the pool will close on Labor Day, as in previous years. It was not possible to find sufficient staff to keep the pool open for two additional weeks as had been previously discussed.
      • Electric Charging Stations: Mr. Klopsch mentioned that the city is joining a group of other communities organized by MVRPC to apply for an Ohio EPA grant for installation of electric vehicle charging stations. Staff identified three sites in Oakwood. These include the city parking lot off Orchard Drive in the Far Hills Business District, the OCC parking lot, and the Wright Library parking area off Telford Avenue. If approved, it is anticipated that the grant will provide sufficient funds to construct all three charging stations. The city would pay the monthly electric costs, but most of the cost would be offset by user fees. The grant application is due on September 30, 2020.
      • Orchardly Park Fence: Mr. Klopsch reported that staff is planning to replace a very old chain link fence between Orchardly Park and the property at 339 Wonderly.