precincts are being increased from (7) voting precincts to eight (8) voting precinct. The rebalancing of the precincts helps minimize voter frustrations at the polling locations, such as having to wait in long lines. The updated precinct information will be reflected in the Montgomery County Board of Elections website system once the state of Ohio approves the maps.

Mr. Rezabek asked for city officials’ help in identifying larger polling facilities with accessible parking. He encouraged constituents to vote, whether it be in person, early voting or via absentee ballot.

Mr. Rezabek shared information about the “Safe at Home” program. This is a program that gives survivors of domestic violence the option to keep their home, work, and school addresses private so it is not accessible as a public record.

Mrs. Hilton asked if the Montgomery County Board of Elections meeting are open to the public.

Mr. Rezabek said that the meetings are open to the public and attendance is encouraged. He said that the next meeting is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Monday, February 14.

Mrs. Hilton asked how the updated precinct information will be communicated to Oakwood residents.

Mr. Rezabek explained that postcards with updated precinct information will be mailed.

Mrs. Hilton asked what will happen if someone shows up at the wrong precinct location.

Mr. Rezabek shared that the poll worker will assist the person and get him/her to the correct voting location.

Mr. Stephens inquired about the funding that the Montgomery County Board of Elections receives.

Mr. Rezabek stated that they receive their funding from the County.

Mr. Stephens noted how the increase in precincts across Montgomery County will require additional expenses for the County. He shared concerns about Oakwood’s precincts being increased to eight (8) voting precincts instead of seven (7). Polling locations in Oakwood do not experience long lines like other cities, and Oakwood does not have large facilities to offer additional polling locations. He asked why the City’s precincts were updated when there did not appear to be any issues.

Mr. Rezabek explained that the maximum number of voters permitted per precinct is 1,400. Oakwood currently averages 1,000 voters per precinct.

Mayor Duncan thanked Mr. Rezabek for the update and encouraged everyone to vote.

Mr. Tim Benford, 132 Greenmount Boulevard and founder/president of Drive Electric Dayton, thanked the city of Oakwood in advance for building a two port, Level 2 electric vehicle charging station in the Orchard Drive public parking lot. He provided an update on additional resources for electric vehicles due to the increase in popularity, including plans to open a Tesla service center in Moraine.

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 the first reading of an ordinance to update the Oakwood property maintenance code. For many years, the local property maintenance code has been based upon a model code known as the 2003 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), with a number of adjustments to tailor that model code to Oakwood’s needs.