HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-09-2023 Council MinutesRECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Counci Nastia
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO. 10148
Held October 9, 2023
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Fox called the Monday, October 9, 2023 Regular Meeting of Dublin City Council
to order at 6:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present were Ms. Amorose Groomes, Vice Mayor De Rosa, Mayor Fox, Mr. Keeler, Ms.
Kramb and Mr. Reiner. Ms. Alutto was absent.
Staff members present were Ms. O'Callaghan, Mr. Ranc, Chief Paez, Ms. Weisenauer,
Ms. Blake, Ms. Goliver, Mr. Hammersmith, Mr. Gable, Mr. Stiffler, Mr. Earman, Mr.
Ashrawi, Ms. Willis, Ms. Rauch, Mr. Hendershot and Mr. Althouse.
Others present: Chair Maynard and Vice Chair Hollie, Chief’s Advisory Committee
ADJOURN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION
Mayor Fox moved to adjourn to executive session for the purposes of considering the
employment of a public employee and considering the purchase of property for public
purposes.
Mr. Keeler seconded.
Vote on the motion: Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Vice Mayor De
Rosa, yes; Mayor Fox, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Fox invited Vice Mayor De Rosa to lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
SPECIAL PRESENTATION
e Chief's Advisory Committee Update
Chair Maynard and Vice Chair Hollie came forward and provided background
that led to the creation of the Chief’s Advisory Committee (CAC). Chair
Maynard stated that the Committee has focused on topics related to those
outlined in the City’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Framework, Priority
Area 4; specifically:
o Promoting Public Safety and a Sense of Security;
o Cultivating Community Engagement and Public Trust;
o Ensuring Transparency and Accountability; and
o Diversifying Police Personnel.
He provided some examples of discussions that have been held at the CAC
meetings regarding Priority Area 4. He expressed gratitude to the members of
the CAC. He also thanked Chief Paez and Becky Metcalf for their support and
assistance. Finally, he thanked City Council for their visioning and support.
Vice Chair Hollie expressed gratitude to Council and staff for their support and
work.
CITIZEN COMMENTS
Mr. Gerald Kosicki, 4313 Wyandotte Woods Blvd., came forward to encourage Council
to amend the Solar Ordinance. He expressed appreciation for Council’s desire to make
solar more available in the Code, but the real impact of the Ordinance seems to be
different in practice. He reference a recent Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) case
involving a resident wanting to put solar on the back of his home on Longview Drive.
The application was withdrawn because it was clearly moving toward disapproval. He
wanted to speak at this meeting to ask Council if the Ordinance that was passed in
June is correctly reflecting Council’s intent. The Ordinance specifies the importance of
promoting renewable energy and that it is a goal of City Council, but there are a few
requirements that do not seem to be consistent with that. He mentioned the color and
shape specifications and how those are difficult to achieve because solar panels are
black and there are mechanicals that come through the roof that need to be avoided
when determining shape. He has recently contracted for solar and an application was
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council Minutes of Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO. 10148
October 9, 2023 Page 2 of 14 Held 20
just submitted to the City. He noted that solar has been an intention of he and his
wife since they built their house 19 years ago.
Mayor Fox thanked Mr. Kosicki and stated that Council is aware of these concerns and
staff is reviewing the Code to be sure that we are meeting the intent and desire to be
more sustainable.
Mr. Jake Trubiano, 95 Longview Drive, stated that, in addition to being a Dublin
resident, he owns a solar company, the headquarters of which he recently relocated to
Dublin. He came forward to express concerns about the solar ordinance as his
application to put solar on his home was going to be denied. [Mr. Trubiano submitted
materials to Council prior to the meeting explaining his position.] He stated that the
purpose of the Ordinance was to make solar more accessible to Dublin homeowners.
He mentioned that he was engaged in the solar survey and public engagement
meetings that took place prior to the adoption of the Ordinance. The language
regarding the shape was that it should complement the roofline, but now it says it
must be rectangular. The color requirement was changed from “complimentary” to the
roof color to “similar.” If a homeowner makes the decision to put solar on their home,
they want to maximize the benefit and in many cases, a rectangular shape is not
sufficient due to the obstructions on the back of a home. He stated that oftentimes, a
rectangular shape can be more of an eyesore than if you just follow the roofline. The
only roof colors that will match a solar panel are black or very dark gray. He stated
that the old code would have allowed 48 of the 52 homes in his neighborhood to be
eligible for solar. The new code would only allow five of the 52 to be eligible for solar.
He reiterated that this new Ordinance is having the opposite effect to Council’s goal of
promoting renewable energy. He offered his assistance as a solar company
professional and Dublin resident in looking at the language. He thanked Council for
the willingness to review the Code.
Mayor Fox thanked Mr. Trubiano and reiterated that the language will be reviewed
because it is a Council goal to be more sustainable and resilient.
CONSENT AGENDA
° Minutes of the September 25, 2023 Regular Council meeting
e Excuse the Absence of Mayor Fox from the September 25, 2023 Regular
Council meeting.
e Notice to Legislative Authority of a Transfer of Ownership of a DSI and a
D6 Liquor Permit from Slice of Dublin LLC, dba La Rosa's, 7048 Hospital
Drive, Dublin, Ohio 43016 to EDCO Dublin Inc, dba La Rosa's, 7048
Hospital Drive, Dublin, Ohio 43016
e — Notice to Legislative Authority of a Transfer of a D5 and D6 Liquor
Permit from JJA Maplewood Deerfield LLC dba Maplewood Kitchen and
Bar, 5065 Deerfield Blvd & Patio, Mason, Ohio 45040 to Gallos Frantz
LLC, dba Gallos Tap Room Dublin, 5851 Frantz Road, Dublin, Ohio
43016
There was no request to remove an item from the consent agenda.
Mr. Keeler moved to approve the consent agenda.
Vice Mayor De Rosa seconded.
Vote on the motion: Mr. Reiner, yes; Mayor Fox, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mr.
Keeler, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes.
SECOND READING/ PUBLIC HEARING - ORDINANCES
Ordinance 37-23
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council Minutes of Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO. 10148
October 9, 2023 Page 3 of 14
Held 20
Providing for the Issuance and Sale of Bonds in the Maximum Aggregate
Principal Amount of $1,000,000 for the Purpose of Paying the Costs of
Improving the Municipal Sanitary Sewer System by Extending Certain
Sewer Lines, Repairing and Lining Certain Existing Sewer Lines, Reducing
Inflow and Infiltration, and Installing New Sewer Lines, New Force Mains,
a Lift Station and Pump Station, Together with all Incidental Work and
Related Appurtenances Thereto.
Mr. Stiffler stated that there have been no changes to this Ordinance from the first
reading. He provided an update to Council regarding the interest rate. He stated at
the first reading that he thought the interest rate was 3.9%. The interest rate is actually
at 4.5%. Staff recommended approval.
There were no public comments.
Ms. Amorose Groomes asked what the .6% increase would do to the overall estimated
budget. Mr. Stiffler stated that it would not do much. Staff estimated 5% for the 2024
CIP estimates, so it does not change that at all. In terms of cost, it will increase by
whatever that amount is annually.
Vote on the Ordinance: Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mayor Fox, yes;
Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes.
Ordinance 38-23
Providing for the Issuance and Sale of Bonds in the Maximum Principal
Amount of $195,000 for the Purpose of Paying the Costs of Improving the
Municipal Waterworks System by Upgrading and Replacing Certain
Existing Water Lines and Installing Water Line Extensions, together with
all Incidental Work and Related Appurtenances Thereto.
Mr. Stiffler stated that there have been no changes to this Ordinance from the first
reading. Staff recommended approval.
There were no public comments.
Vote on the Ordinance: Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes; Mayor Fox, yes;
Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes.
Ordinance 39-23
Providing for the Issuance and Sale of Bonds in the Maximum Principal
Amount of $11,000,000 for the Purpose of Paying the Costs of Acquiring
and Preparing Certain Real Property in Connection with the Construction
of a Bridge Crossing over I-270, together with all Incidental Work and
Related Appurtenances Thereto.
Mr. Stiffler stated that there have been no changes to this Ordinance from the first
reading. Staff recommended approval.
There were no public comments.
Vote on the Ordinance: Mr. Keeler, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms.
Amorose Groomes, yes; Mayor Fox, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes.
INTRODUCTION/FIRST READING — ORDINANCES
Ordinance 40-23
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.297-Acre Fee Simple Warranty
Deed for Right -of-Way, Without Limitation to Existing Access Rights, and
a 0.155 Acre Perpetual Utility Easement, from Riverside Mill Development
LLC, An Ohio Limited Liability Company from the property located at 7049
Riverside Drive, for the Public Purpose of Constructing Roadway
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 644-224-3356 FORM NO. 10148
October 9, 2023 Page 4 of 14
Held 20
Improvements, and a Shared-Use Path, Which Will be Open to the Public
Without Charge
Mayor Fox introduced the Ordinance.
Mr. Hammersmith stated that the Riverside Drive west shared-use path project would
construct approximately 880 feet of shared-use path along the west side of Riverside
Drive from Emerald Parkway north to the Dublin Arts Council driveway. A single 130-
foot-span steel truss pedestrian bridge over the Billingsley Creek is included.
Construction will start late spring 2024 and is anticipated to be completed in fall
2024. This Ordinance would acquire a portion of right-of-way and a permanent
easement from the property located at 7049 Riverside Drive, owned by Riverside Mill
Development. The City and the property owner have arrived at mutually agreeable
terms for this acquisition at the appraised fair market value. Staff recommended
approval at the second reading/public hearing.
There were no public comments.
Ms. Kramb asked for clarification on what is actually being purchased because the
price seems high. Are we buying to the edge of the parcel that goes into the middle
of Riverside Drive? Mr. Hammersmith stated that whatever was public road occupied
is still valued. Even though there is a road through half of it, it is still valued at
$25,000. He stated he would provide additional details on the appraisal for the
second reading.
Second Reading/Public hearing is scheduled for October 23, 2023.
Mayor Fox moved to waive the Council Rules of Order and read Ordinances 41-23
and 42-23 together
Mr. Reiner seconded.
Vote on the motion: Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Mr.
Reiner, yes; Mayor Fox, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes.
Ordinance 41-23
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary
Conveyance Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.033-Acre Temporary
Access Easement from Daniel R. McMillan and Barbara I. McMillan from
the Property Located at 7703 Haverhill Court, Identified as Franklin
County Parcel Number 273-005785-00, for the Public Purpose of
Constructing the Waterways Maintenance Program - Year 1 Project, 22-
030-CIP
Ordinance 42-23
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary
Conveyance Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.097-Acre Temporary
Access and Construction Easement from Charles R. Leach and Molly M.
Leach from the Property Located at 7713 Haverhill Court, Identified as
Franklin County Parcel Number 273-005786-00, for the Public Purpose of
Constructing the Waterways Maintenance Program - Year 1 Project, 22-
030-CIP
Mr. Keeler introduced the Ordinances.
Mr. Hendershot stated that these two Ordinances acquire temporary easements for
the Waterways Maintenance Program, year one project. The temporary access
easement is located at 7703 Haverhill Court and the temporary access and
construction easement is located at 7713 Haverhill Court. These easements are
needed for accessing and providing a staging area for the site. The City has
participated in good faith discussions with the property owners and have arrived at
mutually agreeable terms. These Ordinances are the only needed acquisitions for
Minutes of
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 644-224-3338 FORM NO, 10148
Held
October 9, 2023 Pages of 14
20
this project. Staff recommended approval at the second reading/public hearing of
these Ordinances. Mr. Hendershot stated that the bid acceptance for this project is
scheduled for Council consideration on October 23"%. The project is planned to start
construction in late October or early November with anticipated completion by April
of next year.
There were no public comments.
Ms. Kramb asked if the price for the temporary right-of-way also includes restoration
of the land afterward. Mr. Hendershot responded affirmatively.
Mayor Fox asked if there could be some communication on the website about how
residents with waterways on their property can keep them clean and maintained. It
would be nice to have some instructional material to educate people about the
importance of maintaining our waterways. Mr. Hendershot agreed and stated that
when Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District inspected the waterways, both on
public and private property, 65% of the issues found were on private property, so
property owners need to be involved in correcting issues. He added that this topic
would be coming to the Public Services Committee for discussion about the issues
and blockages that are occurring on private property.
Ms. O'Callaghan stated that staff would look at the information on the website and
provide an update as part of the upcoming bid acceptance on all of our
comprehensive communication efforts.
Second Reading/Public hearing is scheduled for October 23, 2023.
Ordinance 43-23
Amending Chapter 51 and 52 Establishing User Fees and Capacity
Charges for the Sanitary Sewer and Water Systems.
Mr. Keeler introduced the Ordinance.
Mr. Stiffler stated that this Ordinance adjusts the sewer and water fees as specified
in the 2024-2028 Capital Improvements Program (CIP). As a reminder, the sewer
fund analysis in the 2024 CIP specified 6% increases. This is the same increase that
was specified in the last CIP. The sewer fund debt expenditures increase significantly
over the five-year period shown below, from $1.4 million to $2.5 million. This is a
result of debt-funded projects, mostly the three relief sewers that are included in the
five-year CIP. He added that there is a fourth relief sewer just outside this five-year
CIP that influences these rates moving forward.
shah eA bred pee] pared prez] pre)
Assumptions:
Annual Fee Increases: 6.0% 6.0% 5.0% 5.0% 5.0%
Service Level Increases: 1.0% 1.0% 1.0% 1s 1.0%
Interest Earnings: 2.0% 2.0% 2.0% 2. 2.0%
‘OperatingRevenues 3,393,481 3,606,793 3,798,316 3,997,102 4,210,355
Assumptions:
Personal Serv 3.0% 3.0% 3.0% 3.0% 3.0%
3.0% 3.0% 3.0% 3.0% 3.0%
"4,468,650 1,512,709 «1,558,090 1,604,833 1,652,971
Capital expenditures "300,000 100,000. «100,000 100,000 100,000
Sewer Fund Debt Expenditures 1,450,073 1,873,447 _ 2,214, 2,234,327 __ 2,495,538
‘Extension Related Debt Expenditures "360,192-—=«387,584 «410,807 415,810 415,531
Total Expenditures 3,378,915 3,873,740 4,283,211 4,354,971 4,664,087 _
Baginning balance 6,640,505 7,015,566 7,136,203 7,062,135 7,120,057
Ending balance oe $ S66. § 7,136,203 $ 7,062,115 $ 7,120,057 $ 7,081,896
Meeting
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council Minutes of Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 644-224-3308 FORM NO, 10148
October 9, 20235 Page 6 of 14
Held 20
The ending fund balance of the sewer fund stays stable over the five-year period.
In terms of the Water Fund, there is significantly less debt expenditures programmed
in the five-year CIP, which is reflected in the rate increase. 1% is proposed for 2024
as shown below.
Ending balance
Eom ee rye) papa] Fae preg Pre
Assumptions:
1.0% 1.0% 1.01%
0.0% 0.0% DA IS,
2% 2.0% 2.11% 2.01%
Operating Revenues 1,376,443 1,377,852 1,381,302 1,392,717___1,395,157_
Assumptions:
Persomal Services Increases: 3.11% 3.0%
Contractual/’ 3.1% 3.0%
Operating Expen _ ___776,685 799,986 «823,985 848,705 874,166
Capital expenditures - _ acini Meet _
Water Fund Debt Expenditures 390,386 388,640 398,070 464,520
Extension Related Debt Expenditures _ 173,010 197,358 211,932. 219,932
Total Expenditures 1,385,984 1,433,988 1,526,694 1,558,619
Becanning batance 12,349,406.
$12,533,633 $12,692,879 $12,775,347 $12,831,817
The Water Funded debt expenditures range from $390,000 to $464,000. During this
five-year period, the fund balance actually increases about half a million dollars. Mr.
Stiffler stated this is important to note because costs are increasing at about 3%
while revenues are only increasing at about 1%. He added that fund balance and
interest rates are such that we are able to maintain that, but it is not sustainable. He
stated that this is a funding plan that works for now while we are focusing on the
Sewer Fund, but we will continue to make adjustments every CIP to make sure that
the revenues and expenditures of the fund remain balanced.
There were no public comments.
In response to Vice Mayor De Rosa’s question regarding the Sewer Fund and ending
balances, Mr. Stiffler stated that if we wanted to see some Fund balance growth, we
could do 6% in those years, but most of the relief sewers are in the first three years,
and there is concern regarding the cost estimates for those relief sewers. Costs have
been highly variable. 5% maintains a flat fund balance. This was just a modeling
choice, and residents appreciate a more steady smaller increase rather than a big
jump in rates. Vice Mayor De Rosa thanked Mr. Stiffler for the information.
Second Reading/Public hearing is scheduled for October 23, 2023.
INTRODUCTION/PUBLIC HEARING/VOTE — RESOLUTIONS
Resolution 67-23
Appointing a Member to the Personnel Board of Review for the City of
Dublin Ohio
Mr. Keeler introduced the Resolution.
Vice Mayor De Rosa stated that as Council is aware, a vacancy was created on the
Personnel Board of Review due to the resignation of a member before their term
expired. Council reviewed applicants that were on file for the Board and agreed to
move forward to fill the vacancy. Mark Stemm has professional experience in the
practice of Employment Law for 35 years and has prior experience serving on the
Board.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Council
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 644-224-3388 FORM NO. 10148
October 9, 2023 Page 7 of 14 Held 20
There were no public comments.
Vote on the Resolution: Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mayor
Fox, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes.
Resolution 68-23
Accepting the Lowest and Best Bid for the Cosgray to Eiterman Road Fiber
Installation.
Mr. Keeler introduced the Resolution.
Mr. Brown began his presentation with an explanation of DubLink Fiber assets. The
diagram below shows what is meant when we talk about all the different fiber assets.
* — Dublink — Multi-conduit System * — Dublink Development Company Dublink - Multi-conduit System
ae SS Oe eg STs (Dublink Development Company, LLC)
owned or leased by many customers.
* Dublin Owned Conduit
* The City of Dublin owns a least — one conduit iar gated Dublink Multi-conduit System. Conduits.
* — The City of Dublin also owns and " I leases conduit outside of the (other owners) Dublink Multi-conduit System.
. bake Owned Fiber
The City of Dublin owns fiber within our conduit (in or out of Fiber : ~ the Dublink Multi-conduit ‘ System). Fiber strand counts vary (other owners) (City of Dublin)
from as low as 8, for some laterals or specific runs, to 96, 144 and more.
Conduit
(City of Dublin)
The outer black box represents Dublink’s multi-conduit system. That system is owned
by Dublink Development Company LLC and it consists of a number of different
conduits within that they rent to other customers, including the City of Dublin. We
own one conduit through which we run fiber. We own a number of different conduit
and fiber outside of this bank system. The maps below attempt to illustrate these
systems.
Dublink Multi-conduit System Dublink Multi-conduit System and
The map with only the red lines represents Dublink whereas the lines that are blue on
the secondary map show more of the conduit with fiber inside of it that lies outside the
Dublink system. Mr. Brown stated that we utilize a network topology called rings.
What rings do is create redundancy, fast pathways and both high reliability and
scalability.
Meeting
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 644-224-3358 FORM NO, 10148
October y, 2UZ5 Page 6 orl4
Held 20
An explanation of rings is shown below.
* Ring Network Topology, or Ring, is created Ring 1 / when fibers are spliced in such a way as to 9 |
create a bi-directional ring from any given
location along the route.
° This provides additional redundancy, fault tolerance, high reliability and scalability.
° Fiber that is in a ring is attractive to businesses that have critical communications and data-intensive applications that demand continuous
uptime and high-speed data transmission.
* Four rings have been created, for Economic
Development purposes, in strategic locations along the route of the City’s fiber and our local data centers. Other rings exist
for City operations.
Rings one through four were done with economic development in mind and it attracts
businesses that are looking for the attributes this offers. Mr. Brown stated that the
project related to this Resolution would complete a gap to create two more rings. By
closing this gap, it allows for the creation of two more rings for economic development.
On September 13, four bids were received for this fiber installation. The engineer’s
estimate for this project was $173,000. The lowest and best bid was from Fishel
Company for $131,468.54. Staff recommended approval of the Resolution.
There were no public comments.
Mayor Fox thanked Mr. Brown for explaining the fiber project and providing clarity.
Vote on the Resolution: Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes; Mayor Fox, yes;
Mr. Reiner, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes.
Resolution 69-23
Adopting the 2023 City of Dublin Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Mr. Keeler introduced the Resolution.
Mr. Earman provided a brief background of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan
update. He stated that Council provided feedback throughout the review sessions and
offered the following feedback:
e The proposed Parks and Recreation Master Plan (PRMP) identified too many
items in Chapter Six as High Priorities. Staff took each potential project and
categorized them into time frames. This distributes the projects at a better
tempo and will be easier to implement.
° Clearly identify implementation of capital projects and maintenance items
identified in the PRMP in the operating budget and CIP. Implementation of
capital and maintenance projects will be identified in the PRMP and in future
operating budgets and CIPs. Planning for some capital projects is already in
progress. Recently adopted 2024-2028 CIP funds were either budgeted or
programmed for projects identified in the Plan.
° Clearly identify that the major projects included in the PRMP will not all
necessarily be completed. The “major projects” should be addressed as high
interest items since priorities will change over time. Staff made changes to the
label of the “major projects” identified on pages 110 and 111 of the PRMP and
changed the labels to “potential major projects.” The label for “Major Projects
(Future Feasibility Studies)” on page 112 of the Plan has been changed to
“Potential Initiatives (Future Feasibility Studies).” There was also language
added to state that the PRMP does not constitute a funding commitment, and
the actual implementation of the potential major projects and potential
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes-of Dublin City Council Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-G338 FORM NO, 1014S
October 9, 2023 Page 9 of 14 Held 20
initiatives are subject to available funding and future capital improvement
program review.
e Clearly communicate progress implementing the PRMP needs to the public. In
addition to the PRMP projects being implemented annually in the CIP and
Operating Budget, staff will use the City’s existing reporting applications to
keep Council and the community updated on the progress of implementing the
PRMP.
e The PRMP must continue the City’s commitment to being a destination city of
choice. Several of the potential major projects and potential initiatives
identified in the PRMP will further the City’s commitment to being a destination
of choice. Examples include potential kayak livery and launch, potentially
adding synthetic turf fields and potential event lawn improvements.
e The PRMP identifies several maintenance needs in existing City parks. Staff
should implement an annual maintenance assessment for existing parks similar
to the assessment completed as part of the PRMP. Staff will continue to
identify annual maintenance needs through our Asset Management Program in
the City parks. As parks and infrastructure are inspected and maintenance
needs are updated annually, staff will clearly identify these maintenance needs
and address those in future operating budgets.
e The PRMP should prioritize the maintenance of existing facilities and balance
these maintenance needs with new investment. The plan focuses on
maintaining and enhancing existing facilities with an eye towards ensuring
current maintenance needs are prioritized. Several potential major projects in
the Plan are the maintenance of existing facilities.
e Conversations with neighboring communities regarding the funding
partnerships needs to be a priority since Dublin is subsidizing parks and
recreation amenities for residents of neighboring communities. The PRMP
includes the following strategies to balance the parks and recreation needs of
Dublin residents with the projected growth of non-residents:
o Create partnerships with neighboring communities for regional planning
efforts;
o Establish funding partnerships with stakeholders;
o Consider new pricing strategies for City facilities and partner with other
entities to offset current operational and maintenances costs of
amenities; and
o Consider policy amendments and limitations for non-residents for usage
of City parks and recreation amenities that are near or at capacity.
Mr. Earman concluded that the resulting Plan is inclusive of the input received
throughout the review process and the revisions directed by Council.
There were no public comments.
Vice Mayor De Rosa asked, referring to the last item discussed about usage and
neighboring communities, if the plan was to move some of these policy considerations
forward to Committees for discussion.
Ms. O'Callaghan stated that she has asked staff to compile information with regard to
our usage and our rates as it pertains to residents of neighboring communities. She
recommended Council have a discussion during a work session. Consensus of Council
was that a work session would be appropriate.
Ms. Amorose Groomes stated that, in future budgeting, it would be helpful to know the
evaluation that was done to understand the maintenance of our existing facilities.
Mr. Reiner thanked staff for the comprehensive report. He asked about the smaller
detail items that were called out as maintenance items. Mr. Earman stated that the
majority of those smaller maintenance items would be considered overhead costs and
projects that can be handled internally.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council Minutes of Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO. 10148
October 9, 2023 Page 10 of 14 Held 20
Mr. Reiner then asked about a botanical garden or a Japanese Garden and whether a
site was selected for that. Mr. Earman stated that a site has not been chosen. He
added that staff would be reviewing the master plans for Riverside Crossing Park and
Coffman Park so that may provide some opportunity to look at those sites for any
potential options.
Ms. Amorose Groomes suggested involving the Dublin Arts Council when determining a
location for the botanical garden.
Mayor Fox asked about getting a clearer picture of the full-time employees needed to
make sure that we can keep the maintenance of the parks up to expectations. Mr.
Earman stated that can come forward with the operating budget.
Vote on the Resolution: Mayor Fox, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Vice Mayor
De Rosa, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes.
OTHER BUSINESS
e Proposed 2024 Council, Work Session and Committee Meeting Schedules
Mr. Keeler moved to adopt the Council Regular Meeting, Work Session and
Committee meeting schedules for 2024.
Mr. Reiner seconded.
Vote on the motion: Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Mr. Keeler,
yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes; Mayor Fox, yes.
e Holiday Market Follow-up — Public Services Committee Recommendation
Mr. Ranc stated that in May 2022, Council directed staff to conduct a feasibility
study and explore holiday markets domestically and internationally. There was
a significant amount of work done, including travel, to understand the
operations and to experience holiday markets. In February 2023, staff brought
its findings from the domestic and international trips to the Public Services
Committee (PSC). At that time, staff recommended proceeding with a Request
for Proposal (RFP) to conduct Phase Two of the feasibility study (Phase One
was considered the fact-finding and was exploratory in nature). Phase Two
would be an in-depth financial operating model and ownership aspect study
that would help inform how to start a holiday market in Dublin. The PSC
directed staff to meet with community partners to gauge interest before
proceeding. In September, staff provided PSC with a report of consultations
that were held with community partners, including representatives from Visit
Dublin Ohio, Crawford Hoying, The Dublin Arts Council and the Historic Dublin
Business Association. Each of the organizations expressed interest and general
support for a holiday market.
Between February and September, staff met with operators of holiday markets
including German American Marketing Inc., German American Events LLC and
Marketplace Consulting. These consultation meetings helped a great deal in
determining the details and scope that would be incorporated into an RFP. The
scope of the RFP would include:
e Examples, analysis and recommendations for potential ownership
models;
e Examples, analysis and recommendations for potential operating
models;
o Five-year pro forma to capture start-up costs and cost
recovery as market matures
o Pro forma to include necessary City participation
e Analysis and recommendations for sponsorship models;
o Sponsorship needs and opportunities for one-time costs and
on-going operating costs
Minutes of
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Dublin City Council Meeting
[cie) IT FORMS & SUPPLIES 644-224-358 FORM NO. 10148
October 9, 2023 Page 17 of 14 Held 20
e Location analysis and recommendations
o Emphasis on locations’ ability to drive
fundraising/sponsorships
o High-level sketch of potential market design.
The PSC also stated that a potential holiday market in Dublin could include
holiday traditions from various cultures, in addition to the traditional German
ChristkindImarkt concept.
Mr. Ranc clarified that there are two concurrent efforts occurring that are
separate. He clarified that the holiday market RFP is one project and there was
a separate RFP that was published at the end of September in support of
Council’s goal number four. The RFP in support of Council’s goal is a much
broader RFP for next generation community events. The RFP for the holiday
market can provide a proof of concept for a market that is owned and operated
separate from the City, although supported by the City. The two RFP’s would
be providing different information.
The PSC is recommending that City Council direct staff to proceed with the RFP
for Phase Two of the feasibility study for a potential holiday market.
Mayor Fox moved to proceed with an RFP to conduct Phase Two of a
Feasibility Study for a potential Holiday Market in Dublin as recommended by
the Public Services Committee.
Mr. Reiner seconded.
Vote on the motion: Ms. Kramb, yes; Mayor Fox, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Vice
Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes.
STAFF COMMENTS
Ms. O'Callaghan shared the following updates:
e She welcomed our new Economic Development Director, Jeremiah Gracia.
Jeremiah is a very familiar face as he previously served as a member of our
economic development team from 2011 to 2020. Since that time, he has been
leading economic development efforts for Grand Rapids, Michigan. He holds
both Bachelor of Arts and Master of Public Administration degrees from Bowling
Green State University. He also received his Certified Economic Developer
professional designation in 2015 from the International Economic Development
Council. Jeremiah is respected both in our community and throughout the
region. His return not only brings with it the wealth of knowledge and
relationships he cultivated during his nine-year tenure in Dublin, but also the
invaluable experience and leadership he has gained during his time in Grand
Rapids, Michigan. We are thrilled to have him back.
e Congratulations to our Finance Department on earning the State Auditor’s
Award with Distinction after completion of our 2022 audit. Only 4% of all audits
annually receive this award so this is quite an achievement.
e In furtherance of the Speed Management Program Council adopted earlier this
year, staff launched the “Slow Down Dublin” campaign last Thursday. This
public education and awareness effort has been a great team effort by
Transportation & Mobility, Police and CPI, and has already generated interest
from both the local media and on social media. The Slow Down Dublin page is
live on the City’s website and includes information and a toolbox of resources,
including car magnets, vinyl stickers and yard signs, plus opportunities to report
a speed concern and request a speed laser or police ride-along. More than 40
residents have requested materials or reported an issue so far. As part of the
Speed Management Program, the speed limit on Riverside Drive between Tuller
and Martin Roads will be reduced from 40 to 25 miles per hour beginning this
Thursday, October 12. Message boards are up notifying drivers of the
upcoming change, and police will begin enforcement on October 30.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council Minutes of Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 644-224-3338 FORM NO, 10128
October 9, 2023 Page 12 of 14 Held 20
Additionally, staff has launched a survey regarding the potential addition of
speed cushions on Cacchio Lane. The survey is on the City’s Tell Dublin survey
platform and has been shared with the residents of the Belvedere and Riviera
neighborhoods, as well as Jerome High School parents. We have received more
than 70 responses so far. The survey will be up until October 20.
e She announced the City’s first “Sustainable Saturday” on October 14 at our
Fleet Maintenance building from 9 a.m. to noon. This year document
destruction day is expanding to provide additional drop-off recycling services,
including e-waste. Residents are invited to bring their used textiles, such as
clothing and linens, to be donated. Towels and sheets will be donated to the
Ohio Wildlife Center and repurposed for animal care. Clothes and other small
household items will be donated to Goodwill to be given new life or recycled.
We are also collecting Styrofoam to be densified and re-used. This is an
exciting update to one of our most popular drive-through events. She thanked
Emily Goliver for her efforts on this project.
e The next Neighborhood Leadership Meeting will take place from 6 to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, October 18, in the Council Chamber. This meeting takes place
twice a year and is a great chance for the City to engage with our
Homeowners’ Association and Civic Association leaders. The meeting is on
Council’s calendar and the agenda has been shared with Council and finalized.
She thanked Council for their feedback.
e Weare looking forward to welcoming the community for the annual Halloween
Spooktacular on October 19 and 20 at Coffman Park. The event is free and
includes games, entertainment and the Haunted Playground. The first half-hour
on Friday will be a sensory-friendly time for our guests with special
needs. More than 35 local companies and organizations will be on hand at the
Trunk or Treat to distribute candy. Trunk or Treat does require free timed
tickets and Dublin residents and Dublin School District residents only are able to
reserve those starting Monday, October 16. We hope to see everyone there at
this family friendly event.
e The first Community Engagement Meeting for the Dublin Community Recreation
Center (DCRC) Refresh Master Plan will take place on Tuesday, October 24 at 6
p.m. in the Development Building Large Meeting Room. City staff and MSA
Design will be presenting information that outlines current conditions of the
building and related programming as well as providing some benchmarking
data for the public to respond to with their feedback. This will be the first of
three Community Engagement Meetings that will take place during the project.
The project is anticipated to be complete by the end of February 2024.
COUNCIL REPORTS
e Administrative Committee: Vice Mayor reported that the Administrative
Committee met on October 3 and had three items on the agenda.
o Council Travel: the Administrative Committee directed staff to provide a
document regarding Council’s stated thoughts on travel as the amount
of travel has increased over the last few years. The Committee also
requested an increase to the travel budget for 2024. The budget will be
discussed when the operating budget comes forward at an upcoming
meeting. The document included in Council’s packet is for Council's
review, discussion and possible acceptance at the next Council meeting.
o Council/Board and Commission Training: The Committee received an
update on the status of training. We still have a significant number of
our board and commission members that have not completed the
required training that was due last March. Staff put together a set of
RECORD OF PR )CEEDINGS uncl Minutes of Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO. 10148
October 9, 2023 Page 13 of 14
Held 20
activities ranging from office hours for people who may need assistance
or helping members before or after a meeting to simplifying the training
offered. The Committee will keep Council updated on those efforts.
o Board and Commission Member Attendance: Information was included
in Council’s packet regarding attendance and the efforts being made to
improve where needed. Council will see the rules and regulations at the
next Council meeting for approval where the attendance sections will be
proposed to be amended.
Ms. Amorose Groomes stated that, regarding the travel document, there are
three categories that are listed. She proposed a fourth category for
Committee meetings. Some Council members serve on national committees
that have annual meetings, so she would like to have those defined in this
document.
Mayor Fox stated that travel has probably increased because we are
bringing forward more energy when it comes to reaching out to other
countries and we are a global city of choice. She expressed concern over
having anything that ties the hands of Council members. She referred to
the sentence that mentions exploratory trips and that the locations and
members traveling will be determined by Council at the Council Retreat
annually. Things do come up outside of the Council Retreat so she wants to
make sure that there is nothing too binding for Council. She also shared
that Council rarely uses the entire travel budget. She added that if there is
a need to see other cities to bring back ideas and increase our economic
development potential, then that should not be limited to a travel budget or
policy.
Mr. Reiner agreed that Dublin has 22 Japanese Corporates in it and in this
last trip to Japan; it would have been nice to be able to meet more
companies that are involved with our City. It is important for our
community to keep making these connections.
Mr. Keeler asked about the proper forum to discuss travel opportunities as
they pop-up outside of opportunities that may be known at retreat time.
He would like to see how those instances would be discussed and decided
upon. Having set procedures or standards is good, but being able to pivot
will be important also.
COUNCIL ROUNDTABLE
e Mr. Keeler welcomed Mr. Gracia.
e Mr. Reiner welcomed Mr. Gracia back to Dublin. He also stated that he is still
working on a number of initiatives from the trip to Japan with our neighboring
cities. He stated that the Japanese American meeting that will be held in
Columbus is a big honor that Dublin will be a part of.
e Ms. Amorose Groomes welcomed Mr. Gracia.
e Vice Mayor De Rosa welcomed Mr. Gracia. She also thanked the Ohio
University and Dr. Burke and Provost Sayrs for the invitation to join them for
the inaugural program of what is being called the Dublin Speaker Series. It is a
health related series for residents. This first event was called, “Live Longer,
Live Stronger, Staying Healthy As We Age.” She thanked Christine Nardecchia
for her work on this program with Ohio University. The second in the series
will be in the spring. She also shared that Dublin Bridges is holding their
Halloween Costume Drive to provide costumes for kids in elementary schools
who do not have access to one. The donation collection spot is at the Dublin
Community Recreation Center. Please drop them off by mid next week so they
can get them to the kids. Congratulations to Dublin Food Pantry who over the
next week will be moving into their new facility.
e Mayor Fox welcomed Mr. Gracia. She thanked the staff and Mr. Reiner who
traveled to Japan on behalf of the City recently.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO. 10146
Held
October 9, 2023 Page 14 of 14 20
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:43 p.m.
Mayor ~ [Presiding Officér *