HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-24-22 Council MinutesRECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Council
Held
January 24, 2022
CALL TO ORDER
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Meeting
Mayor Fox called the Monday, January 24, 2022 Regular Meeting of Dublin City Council
to order at 5:16 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present were Ms. Alutto, Ms. Amorose Groomes, Vice Mayor De Rosa, Mayor Fox, Mr.
Keeler and Mr. Reiner. Ms. Kramb arrived just after roll call.
Staff members present were Mr. McDaniel, Ms. Readler, Ms. O'Callaghan, Mr. Ranc, Mr.
Earman, Mr. Stiffler, Mr. Rogers, Ms. LeRoy, Ms. Rauch, Ms. Weisenauer, and Chief
Paez.
Also present: David Guion and Ava Morgan, Dublin Arts Council; Kristy Campbell,
Chief Operations Officer, Rev1 Ventures; Ian Montgomery, Fado Pub and Kitchen;
Jamie Green and Logan Stang, Planning Next; and Audrey Ryu, Dublin Jerome High
School Student.
ADJOURN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION
Mayor Fox moved to adjourn to executive session for the purposes of:
• Personnel Matters: Considering the employment of a public employee
• Considering the purchase of property for a public purpose
• Conferences with an attorney for the public body concerning disputes involving
the public body that are the subject of pending or imminent court action
• To consider confidential information related to a request for economic
development assistance that involves public infrastructure improvements that
are directly related to an economic development project, and which executive
session is necessary to protect the possible investment or expenditure of public
funds to be made in connection with the economic development project
• Preparing for, conducting, or reviewing negotiations or bargaining sessions with
public employees concerning their compensation or other terms and conditions
of their employment.
Ms. Alutto seconded.
Vote on the motion: Mr. Keeler, yes; Mr, Reiner, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes;
Mayor Fox, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes.
Mayor Fox reconvened the meeting at 7:07 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Fox invited Mr. Keeler to lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
• Dublin Jerome Division I State Champion — Audrey Ryu
Mayor Fox recognized Miss Ryu and invited her to come forward. Mayor Fox read the
proclamation celebrating Miss Ryu's achievement as the Division I State Champion in
Golf. Miss Ryu thanked Council for the Proclamation. She also thanked her parents,
teammates and Coach. She stated that she has learned that putting in the hard work
and accepting help and criticism with help you get where you want to be.
Ms. Amorose Groomes offered her congratulations to Miss Ryu and commented on her
focus and confidence in the State Championship.
• Dublin Arts Council Announcement
Mayor Fox invited Mr. Guion to come forward to make an announcement on behalf of
Dublin Arts Council. Mr. Earman asked to make a few introductory comments. He
stated that at the June 28, 2021 meeting, Council directed staff to restart the AIPP
process and allocated $22,500 to begin the commissioning of this new artwork. This
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amount was intended to be above and beyond the $150,000 full commission cost for
this project. The $150,000 for this project is currently allocated in the Hotel Motel Fund
which has a total of $300,000 currently designated for AIPP projects. At the second
meeting in February, this particular project along with other items will be brought
forward in the next supplemental appropriation ordinance for first reading. Upon
approval of this appropriation at the second reading, staff will bring forward a
Resolution to enter into contract with the artist for Council consideration and approval.
He stated that the presentation at this meeting (January 24) is for the purpose of
announcing the artist selection and the process by which the artist was selected.
Mr. Guion shared a presentation outlining the artist selection process. He
acknowledged and thanked the Selection Committee members for their hardwork. The
three artwork finalists were from the following artists: Ilan Averbuch, Adam Kuby and
StudioKCA. The unanimous recommendation from the committee was Ilan Averbuch
and The Boatin the Fie/dconcept. Mr. Averbuch's concept is for a landmark sculpture
that is 25 feet tall, 18 feeet wide and 15 feet deep. It is two symbolic intertwined
images representing stability and trascience, rootedness and a journey to the
unknown. The artwork will also include an accessible container and logbook on-site
with an online component as a catalyst for promoting rich dialogue, sharing
imagination and ideas. Mr. Guion briefly reviewed the other two finalists' concepts.
Council thanked Mr. Guion for the announcement.
Ms. Amorose Groomes appreciated the tie from the artwork to the namesake of the
Reserve. Red Trabue wrote about hunting, fishing, and the state of our natural
environment.
A comment received online was read as follows:
James Schrock, 6396 Phoenix Park Drive, Dublin wrote:
I am writing to you in regards to the Dublin Art's Councils public arts
proposal. My wife and I have lived near the ML Red Trabue Nature
Preseve since 1991 and owned property backing up to the Preserve on
Phoenix Park Drive, in Lowell Trace, since 1997 We walk the park just
about every day of the week and have helped plant it, so we are
intimately familiar with it's character.
This park, first and foremost, is a Nature Preserve with no portion more
so than the prairie, woods and wetlands surrounding Karrer Pond. We
saw the ML Red Trabue Nature Preserve would be the next location for
a public art installation and listened to the public webcast of the three
finalists on Friday, January 21, 2022. As it seems the decision to put an
installation in the park has already been made, we were dismayed that
all of the proposals were for installations directly in the most natural
area surrounding Karrer Pond. We understand that a finalist is to be
presented to Council on Monday, January 24, 2022 and we request
that as part of Council's review, steps be taken to protect the
prairie/wetlands portion of the park near Karrer Pond and limit
installations to other areas of the park that have already been
developed, where man-made structures will not detract from the
natural beauty of the area. Thank you.
Vice Mayor De Rosa asked for Mr. Earman and Mr. Guion's response to Mr. Schrock's
comment. Mr. Earman stated that any disruption would be minimal and extra
precautions will be taken when working in the area. Mr. Guion added that this is a
well -traveled area and very public due to the existing path going into the area.
Vice Mayor De Rosa clarified that there will not be a new path created; the existing
path is the path shown in the presentation. Mr. Guion responded affirmatively.
Mr. Reiner commented that this will be a tough project to build due to the weight of
the limestone suspended in the air.
In response to Mr. Reiner's question regarding maintenance, Mr. Guion stated that
these are very durable materials to withstand Ohio winters.
Ms. Arnorose Groomes asked where they would be sourcing the limestone. Mr. Guion
stated that he is not certain at this time.
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CITIZEN COMMENTS
CONSENT AGENDA
There was no request to remove any of the consent agenda items.
• Minutes of the January 10, 2022 Council Meeting
• Notice to Legislative Authority regarding the Transfer of a D5 and D6 Liquor
Permits from Axe Throwing LLC & Patio, dba Throw Nation, 6649 Dublin Center
Drive, Dublin, Ohio 43017 to Throw Nation Columbus LLC, 6649 Dublin Center
Drive, Dublin, Ohio 43017.
Mayor Fox moved to approve the consent agenda items.
Ms. Alutto seconded.
Vote on the motion: Ms. Kramb, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Amorose
Groomes, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mayor Fox, yes.
FIRST READING/PUBLIC HEARING — ORDINANCES
Ordinance 01-22
Amending a Portion of the Dublin Corporate Area Plan within the City of
Dublin's Community Plan to Refine the Recommendations regarding the
Metro Center Area
Ms. Alutto introduced the Ordinance.
Ms. Rauch stated that this Ordinance is a request for review and approval of the
recommendations and redevelopment concepts for the Metro Center area (MUR-1)
within the Dublin Corporate Area Plan (DCAP). The DCAP was approved in 2018 and
recommends a repositioning of the legacy office sites. The DCAP focuses on creating a
walkable, mixed use environment and establishing a strategy to refresh the Frantz
Road streetscape. Staff and the consultant team shared an initial assessment related
to stormwater management, utilities, office and commercial character, vacancy rates,
land utilization and connectivity and how each of these factors influence the vision for
the area. Following the assessment discussion, the consultant team presented a series
of benchmark examples of legacy office areas that have undergone redevelopment,
and how the takeaways from those examples help inform the direction for the future
vision of Metro Center. Staff and the consultant team shared a set of principles to
define the key design and character attributes for the focus area, which include four
pillars: development, mobility, site improvements and regulatory process.
Mr. Greene shared a presentation regarding the visioning process. The visioning
process was guided by a Metro Center Visioning Advisory Committee. This Committee
affirmed the essential district principles. Staff and the consultant presented several
potential themes to identify the Metro Center area to act as the central guide and
purpose for future development. Each of the themes reinforced the recommendations
of DCAP while exploring new projects, programs, and policies organized around a
cohesive purpose. The themes are:
• Sustainability/Resiliency
• Lifestyle/Entertainment
• Cultivation/Exploration
Each theme identified an opportunity for a catalytic project along the Frantz Road
frontage to establish precedent for future redevelopment of the Metro Center area.
Overall, each theme incorporates the same essential principles including:
• Increased density and intensity of development
• Variety of new diverse housing types for the City
• Amenities (restaurant and retail) complementing the district
• Consolidate surface parking for redevelopment opportunities
• Open space areas and/or greenways connecting the district
• Pedestrian connections, sidewalks, trails, and alternative transportation that link
to the citywide system
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The Committee landed on the theme of Cultivation. This theme encompasses
embracing business growth while fostering cultural and technological initiatives for the
next generation. The Cultivation Principles inspire a sense of exploration into new
possibilities through:
1. Flexible/adaptable workspaces promoting business incubation, sustaining, and
expansion;
2. Sustainable initiatives, systems, and processes focused on reducing
environmental impacts;
3. Workforce and alternative housing options to diversify the Ci" current stock;
and,
4. Mobility and technology programs that remain at the forefront of innovation.
A series of graphics and two development concepts, infill development and
redevelopment, were shared to begin visualizing the principles within the area. Staff
and the consultant team then reviewed a summary of the proposed revisions to the
DCAP document based on the visioning process before discussing the concepts and
revisions with the committee. The Advisory Committee expressed support for the two
development concepts identifying opportunities to encourage a central greenway
connection through the district and balancing surface with structured parking to
support new uses. Proposed DCAP revisions were also affirmed by the Advisory
Committee including varying building heights between four to six stories along Frantz
Road. Several other minor revisions were identified including removing a residential
density limit, clarifying building heights along Frantz Road, and encouraging the
redesign of the stormwater ponds. Mr. Greene provided visual concept drawings to
illustrate. The draft redevelopment concepts illustrate potential ways in which the
recommendations can be applied. These represent one of many iterations for
redeveloping Metro Center and are supported with aspirational images, conceptual
renderings, and character graphics. Two redevelopment concepts were developed for
Metro Center, offering alternative approaches for realizing the vision. Both concepts
are initiated with a catalytic project along Frantz Road given the unique opportunity
with current property owners. Mr. Greene invited Mr. Stang to speak about the
recommended amendments to the DCAP.
Mr. Stang stated that a majority of the 2018 DCAP recommendations, principles and
vision are still relevant today. Based on these conversations with the Advisory
Committee, revisions have been identified for the DCAP to align with the vision for the
Metro Center area. Mr. Stang reviewed the following recommendations that can be
found in the proposed amended DCAP document:
• Land Use Recommendations
o Clarification of intended uses and development style for Metro/Blazer
Sub -district
o Aligning building height with development concept for Metro Center
vision: encourage increase density along Frantz Road frontage, support
appropriate building massing for Frantz Road corridor, provide transition
between neighboring districts and existing neighborhoods, and promote
variation in building height and massing
o Proposed building height of 4-6 stories within Metro Center, extending
north towards SR -161.
• Development Concepts
o Overview of previous scenario concepts (infill and redevelopment) and
purpose for visioning process
o Summary of the assessment conducted for Metro Center along with
supporting graphics, data and narrative
o Proposed vision for Metro Center
o Introduction to Frantz Road redevelopment at catalyst project
o Outline for potential long-term development concepts of Metro Center,
and
o Clarification of stormwater design intent.
• Frantz Road Corrdior/Implementation
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o Emphasis of activating public realm along the corridor through gathering
spaces, open space etc.
o Integrate revised corridor cross sections displaying the variation in
building height and vision for Metro Center
o Introduction of new action recommendations supporting the
implementation of the Metro Center Vision: Update zoning code,
stormwater design manual and other city regulations, and prioritize
development along the Frantz Road corridor.
Mr. Reiner stated that the mission of this project was really to augment the success of
our businesses. There is currently an 85-90% occupancy rate. The purpose is to try
to accomplish future success for our stakeholder/businesses. He thanked the business
owners who participated in the visioning process. He stated that the goal is the future
success of Dublin in these "pods" that will be evaluated for redevelopment.
There were no public comments.
Ms. Amorose Groomes thanked everyone for the work on this. She stated that housing
along the interstate was extensively discussed, but there is no mention of it in the
document. She would like to see it included to provide clarity to the development
community. She stated that housing adjacent to an interstate is not a positive for the
community. She would like to see language added to the document as it was the
consensus of the committee. The second concern she shared was uncertainty as to
whether the vision was captured. She recalled discussing green building in the
Committee meetings. If we are going to be committed to green building then it needs
to be clearly stated and not just alluded to in the document. If we are not going to be
committed to green building then it should not be mentioned at all in the document.
She then spoke to the size of the document. It could create difficulty for the
development community to have to read over 60 pages for this one small area. If we
continue to document each area of the DCAP in the same way, they might have 600
pages to read to find out where they might want to put their building. She would like
to see this condensed in a concise way to make it more marketable.
Ms. Kramb stated that she also felt it was very lengthy. Her suggestion was to remove
some of the background and focus on where we are now. This document will be taken
very literally, so clarity will be very important. She has concerns on allowing six stories
across the street from two story apartment buildings. She is also concerned that if the
document states that six stories is allowed, then the developer will ask for six stories.
There may not be clear enough language that it needs to be varied height and not a
wall of six story buildings.
Mr. Reiner stated that there was a good deal of discussion about that and he agreed
that it is not the intention to have a wall of six story buildings.
Ms. Alutto agreed that she also was concerned about the six story buildings and not
enough variation in height. She also agreed that it should be condensed by leaving
out the background.
Vice Mayor De Rosa asked what was meant by "alternative housing." Ms. Rauch
stated that there is currently no housing there, so the Committee was exploring having
housing for workforce/office users and what those options might look like.
Mr. Keeler stated that "housing alternatives" means something different than
11alternativehousing," and clarified that offering different types of housing options is
probably what was meant. Ms. Rauch stated that the document does state a variety of
housing types. Vice Mayor De Rosa stated that if there is an opportunity to think of
the future of work, then we need to talk about the future of living too. She stated that
the future of living and working go together. She read that by 2035, 30-40% of all
cars will be electric, so rather than thinking about parking, maybe think about green
parking or electric charging, etc. She likes the idea of variation of building height and
agrees that it does need to be clarified. She suggested that Council may want to talk
about what mixed-use looks like for the future.
Ms. Kramb suggested that the rendering should be changed because it is sending a
contradictory message. We say we don't want it to look like Bridge Park, but the
renderings look like Bridge Park.
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Mayor Fox stated that she agrees the conciseness of the document is very important.
She stated that it is important to use images to illustrate what it is you want. The
description can be vague and difficult to visualize without images. She liked the
themes in the document, but did not feel there was enough description around how
those themes are to be accomplished and what the expectations are to accomplish
them. In Planning and Zoning Commission, there was discussion about how this piece
fits with everything around it. There were no neighbor representatives in the
Committee. It would be nice to have a conversation with the neighbors as a
partnership in this redevelopment.
Ms. Rauch stated that the conciseness can be achieved. She stated that all of these
pages do not address Metro Center. Once this amendment is approved, the Code and
guidelines would be created which would help clarify what happens within MUR-1 and
specifically this area (Metro Center). Specific requirements and guidance to developers
can be added as the Code and guidelines are developed. She stated that language can
be added to address the concerns she was hearing from Council about building height
to be clear that six stories is not a given and that variation is required. Ms. Amorose
Groomes stated that she would suggest using height and not stories because
depending upon the building and floor to ceiling height of each story, the number of
stories could be misleading. She also added that no two buildings should be the same
height.
Mr. Reiner stated that this can be tricky because high ceilings is what makes density
livable.
Mr. McDaniel thanked Council for their feedback. He asked the consultants if there is
anything from the feedback that is conflicting or anything that needs clarification. Ms.
Rauch stated that she received the clarification needed. Mr. McDaniel asked how long
the code drafting would take. Ms. Rauch stated that a draft of code has already been
started. If someone had a project that they wanted to bring forward, then staff would
clarify the requirements of the area. Mr. McDaniel stated that there are property
owners that have been very patient with this process and he wanted to give clarity to
the timeframe that these property owners might be looking at.
Mr. Reiner stated that it will be important to redesign the retention basins to make
them interesting and pleasing to live around.
Mayor Fox stated that in order to get the special uniqueness, you must describe it. As
we look at the Frantz Road streetscape, it will be important to get buy -in from the
neighbors.
Mr. Keeler stated that the Committee had a detailed conversation about timeline.
Second reading/public hearing is scheduled for the February 14, 2022 Council meeting.
INTRODUCTION/PUBLIC HEARING/VOTE — RESOLUTIONS
Resolution 01-22
Authorizing the City Manager to Enter into an Agreement with Rev1
Ventures
Ms. Alutto introduced the Resolution.
Ms. O'Callaghan stated that the agreement represents a continuation of services
with a focus on new business, technology, and job creation. In exchange, the City
provides matching funds for the State of Ohio's Third Frontier grant program.
Rev1 is designated as the lead agency in the Central Ohio Region responsible for
the administration of the grant program. City Council has budgeted $200,000 in the
City's 2022 Operating Budget as its local match. The agreement is consistent with
past agreements and provides for the continuation of services to include the
following:
• Assess the potential and legitimacy of start-up companies/ideas.
• Market and communicate to promote services and funding.
• Provide assistance to compete for funding/capital.
• Identify high potential entrepreneur candidates within the community.
• Provide access to entrepreneurial training and mentoring.
• Provide and support training programs at the DEC and in Dublin.
• Generate deal flow and provide tenant referrals to the DEC.
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She invited Kristy Campbell, Chief Operating Officer for Revl to come forward. Ms.
Campbell thanked Council for their on-going support for Rev1. The impact of the work
that Revl does everyday reaches far beyond Dublin. They recently achieved an
impressive milestone, which is funding their 130th unique company. They have
deployed $68 million in venture capital just through their funding. Those 130
companies Revl invested in have gone on to generate a $3.2 billion impact on the
central Ohio region. In March of 2020, Revl partnered with the State to try to start
creating pathways for talent into entrepreneurial companies. Rev1 launched an intern
and fellows program and have placed 200 interns in start-up companies and they are
excited about its growth over the last two years. The City of Dublin is one of 45 public
and private partners that support the work that Rev1 does everyday.
Mr. Keeler suggested Revl Ventures having a space within Metro Center. Ms.
Campbell stated that they would be open to having a presence in Dublin. She spoke
about her experience working in tech start-ups and how the plan at the Metro Center
area fosters the continued growth of Rev1's work and she would welcome being a part
of it.
Vice Mayor De Rosa congratulated her on the great work Revl has accomplished. She
asked Ms. Campbell about the future of entrepreneurialism and the future of work and
what Revl will be focusing on in addition to the apprenticeship program. Ms.
Campbell shared that changes in workforce have shown that throughout the pandemic,
even if people don't want to be in a physical work space 100% of the time, they still
want to be there some of the time to collaborate and onboard new talent.
Mayor Fox stated that Dublin invested $2.95 million and has received $239 million back
through the work of Rev1. Dublin is proud to be able to partner with Revl Ventures
and giving a little seed money to a start-up can create a ripple effect. She thanked
Revl for their hard work. Ms. Campbell stated that the American City Business Journal
will be publishing a supplement in the coming days detailing the work of Revl and like
companies across the state.
There were no public comments.
Vote on the Resolution: Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes;
Mr. Reiner, yes; Mayor Fox, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes.
OTHER BUSINESS
Mayor, Fox moved to waive the Council Rules of Order to hear the Fado Pub and
Kitchen's alcohol waiver request first.
Ms. Alutto seconded.
Vote on the motion: Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Mayor Fox, yes; Vice Mayor De
Rosa, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes.
• FADO Alcohol Request
Ms. LeRoy stated that Ian Montgomery was present for Fado. Staff is excited that
Fado will be able to have their street party this year for St. Patricks Day weekend.
This is a waiver request for alcohol to be served in the street for the festivities.
There was no public comment.
Mayor Fox moved to grant the alcohol waiver request.
Mr. Reiner seconded.
Vote on the motion: Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Amorose
Groomes, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mayor Fox, yes.
• Designating the Clerk of Council for Required Public Records/Open Meetings
Training
Mayor Fox moved to designate the Clerk of Council to complete the required Public
Records/Open Meetings training on behalf of Council.
Ms. Alutto seconded.
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Vote on the motion: Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa,
yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Mayor Fox, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes.
• Temporary Sign Regulations
Ms. Rauch stated that in April 2021, Council approved amendments to the Code
specifically regarding temporary signs. The item staff brought forward for discussion
was the non-residential for sale/for lease temporary sign. Staff has been contacted by
commercial real estate brokers and business owners regarding concerns over the sign
revisions. Ms. Rauch highlighted the provision comparison as originally stated and
then as revised. She noted the difference in sign sizes as well as duration of the signs.
She stated that there is an online tool, but the physical sign, per the comments
received, is still critical. She stated that staff completed some benchmarking to
explore any other opportunities and how other communities regulate temporary signs.
Staff found that, specifically looking at duration, the majority of communities mirror
what Dublin's code said previously and was not set on a specific number of days. She
noted that when staff met with the commercial business owners and brokers, they
discussed what they perceived to be potential outcomes of the discussion; they are:
o Reconsideration of the adopted code requirements;
o Reduced sign size/height with less restrictive duration; and
o Consistent sign design.
Ms. Rauch asked for Council's direction on the reconsideration of the adopted code
request and if they desired to do so, under what specific standards. She added that
this topic began in the Community Development Committee and suggested it could
return there for further discussion.
Public Comments were as follows:
Michael Copella, 200 Civic Center, Columbus Ohio, stated that he manages CBRE
locally. He stated CBRE is the largest real estate provider on the globe. He shared his
concern for public access to what is available on the market. The public does not have
access to available databases for commercial properties. He stated that people look
for properties in three ways: online search, contact a broker, or drive around and see
what is available. He stated that phone calls from signs does drive a good deal of
business. He shared that the time it takes to fill a vacancy doesn't work with the 90
day duration restriction. Small business owners are affected because there is a cost
associated with taking these signs up and down. Marketing property is more difficult in
the City of Dublin under the current terms, so it could affect larger businesses looking
for space. He shared concerns regarding sign size and the requirements of what is on
the sign according to the State. He stated he would be happy to work with the
committee to come up with other alternatives.
Paul Krimm, 2088 Fairfax Road Columbus, Ohio, reiterated a few of Mr. Copella's
comments. He added that an effectively run office building typically doesn't have all of
the tenants' leases running on the same schedule, so there is usually vacancy. He
understands that the aesthetic was concerning. He stated that he too, has an interest
in making sure his signs are aesthetically pleasing. He stated he agrees with Mr.
Copella's statements.
Matt Starr, 6640 Riverside Drive, Dublin, Ohio, stated that he brings the perspective of
a Dublin resident, developer and business owner. He stated his agreement with the
other speakers, but he wanted to add that he understands that many of the signs
around the community seem permanent. He is okay with most of the adopted code
amendment for the most part. He understands that property along the interstate
would want larger signs. He asked about the material of signs and that the materials
note that plywood would not be allowed, but almost all signs are made of plywood. He
asked what the intended material should be. Ms. Rauch stated that the code doesn't
stipulate what it has to be, but the concern was the way that plywood weathers over
time. It was intended to require a material that is longer lasting.
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Ms. Kramb stated that economic development does have an online tool. How do the
properties get into this tool and is there a cost to that tool? Ms. Rauch stated, to her
understanding, the tool is available to anyone and there is no cost to it, but the
properties listed are really up to what they know to be available at that time.
In response to Ms. Kramb's question, Ms. O'Callaghan stated that the online tool
available is called Catalyst and that it is the online tool that one of the speakers
referenced. Staff does access this and does receive phone calls about it, but it doesn't
necessarily mean that every available property is listed on there.
Mayor Fox stated that when this issue was discussed at Planning and Zoning the
aesthetic was a concern and the duration was a concern.
Ms. Alutto agreed it is the aesthetic and the signs are permanent signs because they
are up for years. She appreciated the speakers willingness to help the committee.
She is comfortable with referring it back to the Community Development Committee.
Mr. Reiner agreed that Community Development Committee would be happy to discuss
further. He also doesn't understand what other material options are out there other
than plywood.
Vice Mayor De Rosa stated that she feels the issue is both aesthetics and duration.
She stated that she is hearing that a sign would have to be up all the time. She
doesn't think that is a good solution. She is fine with forwarding this issue to the
Community Development Committee.
Mr. Keeler agreed with Vice Mayor De Rosa that it is a perception issue. We don't
want to appear as though we have all this vacant property. He doesn't want to make
this more difficult for owners, but it is a perception issue.
Ms. Kramb stated that at some point there has to be a deadline. A temporary sign
does not stay up indefinitely. She questioned how effective the signs really are.
Ms. Amorose Groomes stated that this is a result of an industry failing to police itself.
She looks forward to a robust conversation at Community Development Committee and
to finding a win for both sides. There are perspectives on both sides.
Mayor Fox moved to refer this topic to the Community Development Committee for
further discussion.
Ms. Alutto seconded.
Vote on the motion: Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Mayor Fox, yes; Ms. Amorose
Groomes, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes.
• DORA Expansion
Ms. LeRoy stated that two Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas (DORA) have been
active in Downtown Dublin since spring of 2021. Feedback from residents, business
owners and guests have been mostly positive with few reported issues related to the
DORA. As a result of the feedback, the DORA hours were continued in the fall of 2021
and into the future. In order to increase the flexibility of the DORA boundaries, staff
is proposing expansion of the boundaries by way of an application to the State of Ohio
as shown in the attached maps. This expansion will allow Council to activate or
deactivate any area within the approved boundary with a single motion in the future
without having to submit a new application to the State. If approved, when a new
restaurant opens outside of the current active area, or there are requests to extend
the active area for a specific event, Council can approve or disapprove the expansion
at any time. [Ms. LeRoy shared the recommended boundaries by showing a series of
maps in detail.]
Ms. LeRoy state that with new boundaries, Council may also consider adding Riverside
Crossing Park and the Dublin Link bridge in the active area, whether on a daily basis or
for specific events. This is not an option within the current boundaries. When a survey
was conducted in the summer, the most mentioned topic in the open-ended questions
was related to having the DORA extend across the Dublin Link Bridge.
Mayor Fox stated that the area of Coast Wine at South High and Eberly Hill is not
included in the DORA because the residential property just North of that property. It is
no longer a residential property and likely will not be in the future. Ms. LeRoy stated
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that she was not aware of that change and will look at that area again.
Mr. Reiner is in favor of the boundary adjustments.
Ms. Arnorose Groomes cautioned the area around the school. She would want to make
sure that we are cautious and aware of those hours and events. Ms. LeRoy stated that
any events that might be close to a school or school parking lot would come before
Council for feedback and approval. There is a policy that all Tier III events would come
to Council for approval.
Ms. Alutto asked how areas are activated and deactivated. Ms. LeRoy stated she
would come to Council for review and approval of the request to activate or deactivate.
Mayor Fox stated that the street on the west side of the parking garage will be
extended soon, so will that be revisited later? Ms. LeRoy stated that they are working
with the State on those scenarios.
Mayor Fox moved to refer this topic to the Public Services Committee for further
discussion.
Ms. Alutto seconded.
Vote on the motion: Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes;
Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Mayor Fox, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes.
• DORA Extension Request — St. Patrick's Day Parade
Ms. LeRoy stated that the 2022 St. Patrick's Day parade will return to Historic Dublin
on Saturday, March 12, 2022 after relocating and redefining the event for the past two
years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This is the first time the Designated Outdoor
Refreshment Area (DORA) will be in place during the parade, and staff has received
requests from establishments along the parade route to consider extending the DORA
hours earlier in the day to encourage food and beverage sales. In order to help further
activate the area of the parade, staff is requesting authorization to extend the DORA
hours earlier for the Saturday of the St. Patrick's Day Parade. This is not a request to
extend the DORA's geographic area, the request is only to extend the hours of the
DORA as follows:
Normal Saturday Hours Proposed Extended Hours
1 P.M. - 10 P.M. 10 a.m. — 10 p.m.
If approved, staff will work closely with the Police Department and maintenance staff
to ensure public safety and cleanliness are maintained during the extended DORA
hours.
There was no public comment.
Vice Mayor De Rosa stated that she would be okay extending the hours beginning at
12:00 p.m. noon, but 10:00 a.m. seems too early for a family event like the parade.
Ms. Kramb agreed with Vice Mayor De Rosa. She feels it is a family event. Ms. Alutto
agreed noon is a more appriate time. Mr. Keeler agreed that noon is appropriate.
Mayor Fox moved to grant an extension to the DORA hours beginning at 12:00 p.m.
(noon) for St. Patrick's Day Parade festivities.
Ms. Alutto seconded.
Vote on the motion: Mayor Fox, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes;
Ms. Alutto, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes.
• Recommendation for CSAC Referrals
Mr. Ranc stated that at its January 11, 2022 meeting, the Community Services
Advisory Commission (CSAC) discussed topics it would like to review and consider at
future meetings. CSAC is requesting to have the following programs and initiatives
referred by City Council for its future review and consideration:
0 Waterways Maintenance Program: The Waterways Maintenance Program is a
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new initiative that was approved with the adoption of the 2022-2026 Capital
Improvements Program. The mission of the Waterways Maintenance Program is
to preserve and maintain the open watercourses within the City, preserving
their storm water carrying capacity, addressing any critical items of
maintenance, and protecting the environmental health of the waterways. The
City is under contract with EMH&T for waterway maintenance. CSAC will be
able to provide a review of the program developed by EMH&T and provide any
necessary feedback and recommendations to City Council.
Composting Program: The City contracts with GoZero to provide composting
service. The program currently has 785 registered participants, with new
participants regularly taking advantage of the program. In 2021, the City
collected approximately 76 tons of composting (including pumpkins), which
accounts for 1 percent of the City's current diversion rate. The composting
drop-off location is located at the City's Service Center (6555 Shier Rings
Road). Staff is initiating an evaluation of providing either a more central
location in the City, or additional locations to provide convenient access to
compost drop-off sites for residents located throughout the City. CSAC also
requested to review a potential pilot project for curbside recycling throughout
the City.
Recycling Programs: In addition to the standard curbside recycling performed
via the City's contract with Rumpke, the City provides e -waste recycling.
Accurate IT Services provides the City's e -waste recycling, and the drop-off
location is located at the City Service Center. Like the composting program, the
e -waste recycling program is popular, with approximately 24 tons of certified
recycling collected annually. Similar to the composting program, staff is
initiating an evaluation of providing a central drop-off location in the City to
provide better access to the program for residents located throughout the City.
CSAC also requested to review a potential Styrofoam recycling program, which
is not currently offered by the City.
Wildlife Mitigation Program: The City maintains a vigorous nature education
effort. The City's Nature Education Coordinator (Coordinator) works
collaboratively with the Parks and Recreation Department, Police Department,
Public Service Division, Recreation Services Division, community volunteers, and
Dublin residents to provide a wide array of services. Services provided by the
Coordinator include nature education programs, wildlife information and
mitigation, data monitoring, and the City's contractual relationship with the
Ohio Wildlife Center. CSAC has requested to review the City's current wildlife
mitigation efforts.
Mr. Ranc stated that staff recommends Council refer these programs to CSAC for
review and discussion about potential enhancements or improvements to the
programs.
There was no public comment.
Ms. Amorose Groomes asked that, when CSAC talks about the curbside composting
pick-up services, dual -use pick up services could be explored. Mr. Ranc stated this
could be reviewed by CSAC.
Ms. Alutto asked about information regarding textile recycling.
Vice Mayor De Rosa asked if these ideas were from staff or from CSAC. Mr. Ranc
stated that topics, except for the wildlife mitigation, were brought to CSAC, but CSAC
expanded upon them and asked to also explore wildlife mitigation. Vice Mayor De
Rosa appreciated their willingness to dive into these meaningful, hefty projects.
Ms. Amorose Groomes questioned if the word "management" wasn't a better fit for the
wildlife project.
Mayor Fox would like to see about composting turned into energy. Mr. Ranc stated
that it will be part of the discussion.
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Mayor Fox moved to refer the Waterways Maintenance Program, Composting and
Recycling Programs, and the Wildlife Management/Mitigation Program to CSAC for
futher discussion.
Ms. Alutto seconded.
Meeting
Vote on the motion: Mr. Reiner, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes,
yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Mayor Fox, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes.
STAFF COMMENTS
Mr. McDaniel stated that Black History Month is the month of February. Black History
is American History and it is certainly varied and rich. What happened in the past,
shapes and informs our future and it is of paramount importance to set aside the
month of February for learning and connection.
Mr. McDaniel also stated that there will be information in the City Manager Packet
tomorrow (January 25) about South Franklin Street Improvements. He noted this
because at the February 14 meeting Council will be asked to provide staff some
guidance relative to sidewalks.
COUNCIL REPORTS
o Committees
Administrative Committee: Vice Mayor De Rosa stated that there is an upcoming
meeting on February 1. She also stated that the end of March is when some of the
Board and Commissions have vacancies so she would encourage anyone with interest
to apply.
Community Development Committee: No report.
Finance Committee: No report. The first meeting this year will be in March.
Public Services Committee: No report. They will be meeting February 9.
COUNCIL ROUNDTABLE
Ms. Amorose Groomes stated that she is appointed to the National League of Cities
Information Technology and Communications Committee and they recently held their
first meeting. There was great robust conversation among cities across the United
States. She is keeping an eye on the focuses of the conversations, which are: cyber
security, sustainable infrastructure, smart cities - emerging technology, workforce
readiness and digital equity. She is monitoring those conversations so Dublin can stay
ahead of the curve and hear what is happening around the country in those focus
areas. She also shared that:
• She attended the Dublin Connector meeting on January 13.
• She met with State Representative on January 18.
• She met with Leadership Dublin on January 19.
• She judged the Poetry Readings on January 22.
Finally, she shared that she was approached by the Lieutenant Governor about
workforce development and workforce readiness and what that might look like in our
region of Northwest Columbus. A meeting is being assembled, co -hosted by Mayor
Ginther's office and Ms. Amorose Groomes, that will take place here in the next several
weeks with the leadership from area schools, business leaders and elected officials.
There is funding available for workforce development so they will be exploring what
opportunities might exist in our area for our students and businesses.
Vice Mayor De Rosa stated that she also attended the Dublin Connector meeting and
Leadership Dublin event. She met the new Franklin County Commissioner,
Commissioner Crawley, at the Leadership Dublin event.
Ms. Kramb asked the balance of Council if she could participate in the South Riverview
Properties Committee with Mayor Fox and Mr. Keeler. Mr. Keeler agreed and
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welcomed her. Mayor Fox also supported her request. Vice Mayor De Rosa was also
in favor.
Mr. Reiner shared that he and the Mayor will be meeting with the Historic Dublin
Business Association (HDBA) shortly.
Mayor Fox stated that she and Mr. Keeler had the opportunity to watch the kick off of
the Historical Society and HDBA's Time Track. Time Track is a project that provides a
QR code in front of 19 historic businesses in the Historic District that will provide the
history of that building. They hope that this program will be expanded to residences
as well in the District. More information can be found at historicdublin.org, or through
handheld cards from Visit Dublin or several businesses. She also mentioned that she
and Ms. Amorose Groomes will be meeting with Congressman Balderson tomorrow
(January 25).
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 p.m.
Mayor — PrI9,
ing Officer
�Ik of C ncil
