Oath of Office for Ward 4 Councilwoman Ann Leahy

Ms. Ann Leahy was officially sworn in as the new Ward 4 Councilwoman for the City of Norwood, affirming her commitment to uphold constitutional and local laws and faithfully execute her duties.

Road Committee Report Acceptance

Moved by Ms. Boling [00:43:57] · Seconded by Mr. Gardner [00:44:09]

The Road Committee presented a report detailing widespread flooding issues experienced by residents and businesses, including property damage, sewage backups, and concerns about infrastructure and stormwater management. The report outlined potential actions, such as mapping flood areas, status updates on MSD projects, clarifying responsibilities, and improving resident communication.

Finance Committee Report Acceptance

Moved by Ms. Boling [00:47:33] · Seconded by Ms. Hoover [00:47:40]

The Finance Committee reviewed reports from the Auditor and Treasurer, noting strong general fund surplus balance due to conservative estimates. Discussion centered on developing a five-year goal for maintaining a surplus equivalent to three months of operating expenses. The committee also requested $50,000 for Norwood Community Television (NCTV) for operational support, with future funding alternatives to be explored.

Ordinance to Acquire Real Property at 2100 Elm Avenue (Love City Church)

Moved by Mr. Gardner [01:06:01] · Seconded by Ms. Hoover [01:06:08]

This ordinance, undergoing its second reading, authorizes the Safety Service Director to enter into a real estate option agreement for the acquisition of property at 2100 Elm Avenue from Love City Church. Council discussed the rationale behind the acquisition, clarifying that it aligns with common municipal strategies for land consolidation, especially for properties adjacent to existing municipal holdings.

Ordinance to Approve Smith Road Development Agreement

Moved by Mr. Gardner [01:12:35] · Seconded by Ms. Franzen [01:12:44]

This ordinance approves an agreement between the City of Norwood and the Hamilton County Commissioners for the development of Smith Road. It was clarified that the project concerns a small section between Sherman and Maple, near the Election Board.

Ordinance to Amend 2026 Appropriations

Moved by Ms. Hoover [01:15:35] · Seconded by Ms. Franzen [01:15:47]

An ordinance to adjust the city's appropriations for the year 2026 was presented and passed with emergency status.

Ordinance to Approve Montgomery Road Target Speed Study Project Agreement with ODOT

Moved by Mr. Gardner [01:20:57] · Seconded by Mr. Moore [01:21:09]

This ordinance authorizes an agreement with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) for a target speed study project on a section of US 22, Montgomery Road. Mr. Powers explained that the state-funded project will involve comprehensive safety improvements beyond simple resurfacing, including new left-turn lanes, curb bump-outs, pedestrian crossings (RRFPs), improved signage, and a reduction in obstacles like poles to enhance driver and pedestrian safety.

Ordinance to Amend Codified Ordinances re: Construction Dumpsters and Storage Containers

Moved by Ms. Hoover [01:22:15] · Seconded by Mr. Gardner [01:22:24]

This ordinance proposes amendments to sections 919.16, 955.01, and 955.02 of the Norwood Codified Ordinances to regulate the placement of construction dumpsters and storage containers on private property. Ms. Hoover explained the need for this legislation, noting that there are currently no laws governing how long dumpsters can remain on a property, leading to issues where they become permanent 'lawn decor' and contribute to blight.

Ordinance to Approve Claim Settlement (Dave Hyland)

Moved by Ms. Boling [01:29:26] · Seconded by Ms. Hoover [01:29:36]

This ordinance authorized the settlement of a claim from Dave Hyland, resulting from damage to a private vehicle by a city-owned vehicle. Council approval was required due to the claim amount exceeding a set threshold (e.g., $1,000-$1,500), which otherwise could be approved by the Auditor and Safety Service Director.

Ordinance to Approve Claim Settlement (Gail Myers)

Moved by Ms. Hoover [01:32:31] · Seconded by Ms. Boling [01:32:41]

This ordinance authorized the settlement of a claim from Gail Myers, similar to the previous item, involving damage to a private vehicle by a city-owned vehicle. The Finance Committee had recommended approval, necessitating Council action due to the amount.

Resolution to Establish a Capital Projects Fund

Moved by Mr. Gardner [01:38:32] · Seconded by Ms. Boling [01:38:43]

This resolution establishes a Capital Projects Fund for the acquisition, development, and construction of permanent assets in Norwood, funded by cannabis tax revenues. Ms. Hoover explained that the fund would provide flexibility to finance various infrastructure projects 'from sidewalk to sidewalk,' including sidewalk programs, street trees, lead lines, and ADA ramps. The current fund balance was stated to be approximately $646,700, offering opportunities for matching funds and immediate project initiation.

Ordinance to Impose Moratorium on Fixed Automatic License Plate Readers (Flock Cameras)

Moved by Mr. Moore [01:39:53] · Seconded by Mr. Gardner [01:40:05]

This ordinance proposes a moratorium on the use of fixed automatic license plate readers (Flock Cameras) in Norwood. The discussion involved clarifying the emergency status, which would allow immediate effect if passed, and the implications for the existing contract, including potential cancellation fees. Council members expressed varied views, with some emphasizing the need for time to determine a long-term policy and others citing privacy concerns and data usage issues, noting that other municipalities have already terminated their contracts.