A copy of the ordinance, having been placed on the desks of each member of Council prior to introduction, was read by title.

Vice Mayor Byington explained that this is a supplemental appropriation ordinance to make funds available for a Court software upgrade that was not included in the 2025 budget.

The Oakwood Municipal Court recently applied for, and was awarded, a grant from the Ohio Supreme Court’s 2025 Technology Grant Program. This grant opportunity was not known last year when the 2025 budget was adopted, but will enable the Court to proceed with much-needed technological upgrades to its case management software and file-handling system.

The grant is in the amount of $33,715. With required local matching funds, the total upgrade cost is $40,003. In order to proceed with this project in calendar year 2025, Council needs to appropriate the $40,003 from the Court Clerk Computerization Fund.

This was a first reading of the ordinance, so Vice Mayor Byington made no motion.

CITY MANAGER’S COMMENTS: Mrs. Smiddy shared the following information:

The Oakwood Public Safety Department has been awarded $4,960.62 through the State of Ohio’s 2025–2026 Drug Use Prevention Grant Program. These funds, distributed throughout the school year, help offset the costs of operating the DARE program, which provides students with critical education on drug awareness and healthy decision-making.

The City selected Bayer Becker to lead the redesign for the Shafor and Orchardly Park. The project aims to improve park amenities and ensure spaces reflect community needs through updated designs and resident input, thereby supporting long-term recreation and quality of life.

Mrs. Jackson expressed sympathy to Councilmember Rob Stephens on the passing of his father, noting that the community’s thoughts are with him. She also raised concerns about scooter safety after observing a child riding into traffic and encouraged parents to speak with their children about safe scooter use.

Mrs. Turben provided an update on the Business First Walk, which gathers input from local businesses on their needs and how the City can support them.

Mr. Stephens thanked Council, city staff, and the community for their support and kind messages during this time.

Vice Mayor Byington highlighted Constitution Week, noting historical connections to Jonathan Dayton, the youngest signer of the Constitution, who, along with others, owned land in the Miami Valley and helped develop the city of Dayton.

Mayor Duncan recognized the many citizen volunteer committees, including the ADA Committee, and commended Mr. Stephens for his consistent dedication and service.

The public meeting concluded at 7:53 p.m.