Ms. Stacel provided an overview of the content and features available on the City website. The website can be accessed by visiting www.oakwoodohio.gov. The website offers many great features including a powerful search engine available on each page; an alert bar that can be displayed on each page of the website to relay important information; easy access to frequently asked questions; and issue reporting.
The main landing page provides a snapshot of news and announcements, and upcoming meetings and events. The community page is designed to provide information about Oakwood for visitors, those looking to move to Oakwood, or looking for employment within Oakwood. The department pages provide all of the details regarding resident services. Contact information is also available for elected officials, city staff and all city departments.
Mrs. Wilder shared that website usage reports are pulled on a weekly basis to help determine the content that is featured on the City website. Over the past year, 86,000 users have visited the City website and there have been 124,000 browsing sessions. Over the past month, the website usage reports show that the most common inquiries are “How do I apply for a zoning permit?” and “How do I pay my property taxes?” The most popular website searches include: OCC information, income tax information, employment application and recruitment announcements, and trash & recycling information.
ProudCity’s website and social media recently featured the city of Oakwood and shared the experiences and the journey that brought about Oakwood’s new website, designed to better serve Oakwood residents.
Mrs. Hilton asked for additional information on the frequently asked questions.
Ms. Stacel explained that the frequently asked questions on the website are broken down into several main categories. Each category includes a list of the most common questions and answers. The questions and answers are reviewed and additional questions are added based on the website usage reports, current events, and from direct feedback or requests.
Mayor Duncan thanked Mrs. Wilder and Ms. Stacel for their efforts in updating and improving the City website.
Mrs. Hilton asked how long the temporary outdoor seating permit process will last.
Mrs. Wilder shared that the outdoor seating permit process will end when the emergency status of the COVID-19 pandemic ends.
Mrs. Hilton asked how outdoor seating permit requests will be handled after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mrs. Wilder explained that there are some places, such as Central Perc, that do not need an outdoor seating permit due to their location and the space needed. The temporary permitting process was created for larger areas that used parking lots or tents for seating. If outdoor seating continues to be requested beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, the Oakwood Zoning Code may need to be updated to address the use of outdoor seating.
CITY MANAGER’S COMMENTS – Mr. Klopsch began by thanking City Council for their support in changing the scope of the 2021 Asphalt Pavement Program back to what was originally planned before the downscaling of the project due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mr. Klopsch then provided an update on the following items:
The 2021 Asphalt Pavement Program bid opening was on February 25. There were two bids received. The project will be awarded to JR Jurgensen. The work will likely take place between June and August.
Mr. Klopsch recognized the Public Works Department for dedicating countless hours and working continuously to address the recent snow and ice events. The Public Works Department continues to review their snow and ice protocols to find ways to provide premier services to the community.
City staff is working to finalize the 2020 Annual Report. The report will be delivered to every property owner and business in Oakwood at the end of March or at the beginning of April.
The Leisure Services Department is preparing the city parks so they are ready to open in April. They are also planning for the upcoming summer swim season at Gardner Pool. Pool protocols