• Planning & Zoning, Vice Mayor Byington

  • Property Maintenance: Mr. Klopsch explained that staff is beginning to see more and more properties being converted from traditional outdoor landscaping to native. This is causing concern amongst some residents in regard to the appearance of their neighborhoods. Mr. Jacques commented that this is occurring in other cities around the country and is a matter that local governments may wish to address. Mr. Jacques will conduct research to determine how other cities may have already addressed this issue.

  • Point Broadband: Mr. Klopsch reported that staff has requested from Point Broadband a timeline for installation of the new fiber optic infrastructure in Oakwood. Point Broadband will host two open house events before work begins so residents can learn about the project and ask questions.

• Public Properties, Mrs. Turben

  • Dog Park Parking Lot: Mr. Klopsch presented a drawing that shows how ten additional parking spaces can be added to the parking lot. He suggested that the City prohibit on-street parking on the east side of Shafor Boulevard between Irving Avenue and the Public Works Yard.

  • Pickleball: Mr. Klopsch explained that staff is moving forward with a plan to build two pickleball courts at Orchardly Park. The courts will be oriented north and south, and will be built on the site of the existing north tennis court.

• Public Utilities/Waterworks/Sewer, Mrs. Turben

  • Far Hills Storm Sewer Improvements: Mr. Klopsch shared that design work will begin soon for a replacement storm sewer system crossing Far Hills Avenue at Greenmount Boulevard; on Dellwood Avenue from Far Hills to East Schantz; on Forrer Boulevard from Far Hills to East Schantz; and on Devereux Drive north of Forrer Road. Design plans will be completed in 2022 with construction of the storm sewer project in 2023. Staff is actively seeking grant money for the engineering work. If the grant money cannot be secured this month, Mr. Klopsch will recommend using federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the professional services.

• Streets & Alleys, Mr. Stephens

  • Leaf Collection: Mr. Klopsch asked Council if they received complaints about the fall leaf collection. Several complaints were received, but it was acknowledged that staffing issues played a big role, and also that the leaves fell late this year creating an enormous workload just before the holidays.

At 7:18 p.m., Mayor Duncan concluded the work session and opened an executive session for property matters.

At 7:25 p.m., Mayor Duncan adjourned the executive session and Council moved to regular session.