AN ORDINANCE
A copy of the ordinance, having been placed on the desks of each member of Council prior to introduction, was read by title.
Mrs. Turben explained that this is an ordinance to make increases in the minimum charges and consumption rates for our water and sanitary sewer utility services. The city last raised water rates in January 2017 (seven years ago) and sanitary sewer rates in January 2018 (six years ago.) The city operates four services as public utilities: water, sanitary sewer, stormwater, and refuse. Each of these services are supported primarily by user fees and not by general tax revenues. The City Manager has recommended responsible rate increases for the water and sanitary sewer utilities in order to meet operational and upcoming capital needs. The increases would take effect in January of 2024. A typical residential customer in Oakwood uses between 300 and 900 cubic feet of water per month. During the summer months, the use can increase depending on the degree to which a property owner engages in outside irrigation. The monthly increase for water and sewer will be as follows:
The rate changes were presented to the citizen Budget Review Committee as part of the 2024 budget briefing on September 12 and October 16, and their response was positive.
This was a first reading of the ordinance, so Mrs. Turben made no motion.
Leisure Services Report: Ms. Carol Collins, Leisure Services Director, referenced a PowerPoint and reviewed the following information:
Gardner Pool improvements began in the fall of 2022 and were completed in the spring of 2023. All of the construction was done in a timely manner and Oakwood residents were able to enjoy a summer of fun and activities for the family. Gardner Pool finished the 2023 season with 535 family pool memberships purchased, 56 single memberships and 121 senior memberships. The gate revenue was $194,563 compared to $166,367 in 2022. Swim lessons had 205 participants. The swim team had 224 participants. Water aerobics/deep water workout had 47 participants. The city plans to install a pool liner in 2024. After that project, the entire facility will be renewed.
The 13th annual Dog Splash was a lot of fun. There were 33 participants in the 2023 event.
A new playground structure and swings were installed at Orchardly Park, and the pickleball courts have become very popular within the community. New swings and new safety surfaces were recently installed at Shafor Park.
This year’s Scarecrow Row and the Family Fall Festival was held on Sunday, October 8. There were 30 participants in Scarecrow Row and the weather was beautiful for this great community event.
The Johnny Appleseed Street Tree Project began in 1976 in an effort to support Oakwood’s commitment to urban forestry and the environment. To date, this program has been responsible for planting 5,259 trees. The highlights of the program include: the cost of the selected species are discounted 50% to Oakwood residents and trees must be planted in the city right-of-way; species of trees will be 1 3/4” in diameter and are excellent for planting; the most needy areas of Oakwood, as determined by the city, will be given first priority; tree species selected are well-suited for planting and most are resistant to disease; and, the trees will be guaranteed for one growing season by the nursery that plants them. Oakwood was recognized as being a Tree City USA for 41 years. Ms. Collins displayed pictures of the different trees offered in 2023.
There were numerous activities that took place at Smith Gardens this year. Blanket concerts were held over the summer, Wright Library hosted story hour and there were several rentals and weddings at the gardens.