Orchardly Park Operations: Mr. Klopsch noted that staff has communicated with several property owners around Orchardly Park regarding concerns about park operations. Staff is considering possible hours of operation for the basketball court to address neighborhood concerns, particularly regarding noise.

Shafor Park Flag Pole: Mr. Klopsch shared that an Oakwood resident recently contacted him to discuss ideas for installing a new flag pole at Shafor Park. This would be an Eagle Scout project. Staff will meet with the Oakwood youth to discuss details.

Public Utilities/Waterworks/Sewer, Mr. Epley

Public Works Storm Sewer: Mr. Klopsch explained that a storm sewer pipe at the Public Works Center at 210 Shafor is in need of replacement. The pipe serves as a discharge line for filter regeneration from the 210 Shafor Water Softening Plant. After approximately 30 years of use, the pipe has become blocked from scale deposits, primarily calcium. The estimated cost to replace this pipe is $145,000. This is an unbudgeted expense. Mr. Klopsch will make a recommendation on whether to use dollars that would be available in the 2020 Capital Improvement Fund, or whether a supplemental appropriation should be made with the cost charged to the Water Fund.

Public Utilities/Waterworks/Sewer, Mr. Epley

Gary Dursch Retirement: Mr. Klopsch noted that Water Plant Superintendent Gary Dursch has announced his retirement. He will depart on December 31, 2020. Mr. Klopsch is working with Personnel Director Jennifer Wilder and Public Works Director Doug Spitler to backfill the position.

Streets & Alleys, Mr. Stephens

Street Lights: Mr. Klopsch shared that 100% of the city’s streetlights are of the High Pressure Sodium (HPS) technology. More and more streetlights throughout the region are being replaced with LED technology. Staff is working with Miami Valley Lighting to develop a plan to address this technology migration. Given the residential nature of Oakwood, the softer light provided by HPS fixtures remains a preference. That said, it is anticipated that LED technology will continue to evolve such that soft light LED fixtures will be available in the future.

Legislation Regarding Debris and Site Visibility: Mr. Jacques discussed two pieces of legislation planned for the September 21 council meeting. One addresses the removal of debris from tree trimming operations conducted by utility companies or their contractors, and the other addresses tree and bush trimming on private property that is required as a safety measure in site visibility cases.

MVRPC, Vice Mayor Byington

August 6 Resolution: Mr. Klopsch commented on the August 6 MVRPC meeting where the Board of Directors tabled a resolution that would declare racism a public health emergency. By a 20-14 vote, the board members present voted to table the matter so that additional discussion can take place.