HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-23-2026 Council Meeting MinutesRECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO. 10148 March 23, 2026 Held 20
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Amorose Groomes called the Monday, March 23, 2026 Regular Meeting of Dublin
City Council to order at 5:15 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members present were Ms. Alutto, Mayor Amorose Groomes, Ms. Johnson, Mr. Keeler, Ms.
Kramb and Dr. Lam. Vice Mayor De Rosa was absent.
Staff members present were Ms. O'Callaghan, Chief Paez, Mr. Hartmann, Mr. Rubino, Ms.
Weisenauer, Ms. Rauch, Ms. Willis, Mr. Gracia, Mr. Barker, Ms. LeRoy, Mr. Gable, Mr.
Jiang, Ms. Blake, Mr. Ament and Ms. Hunter.
Others present were members of the Wyandot Elementary School Cub Scout Troop 111
and Heather Ditty, the Memorial Tournament.
ADJOURNMENT TO EXECUTIVE SESSION
Ms. Amorose Groomes moved to adjourn to executive session to consider:
e Considering the Purchase of Property for Public Purposes; and
e Personnel Matters: Considering the Employment of a Public Employee and
the Appointment of a Public Official.
Vote on the motion: Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Johnson, yes; Dr. Lam, yes; Mayor Amorose
Groomes, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes.
The meeting was reconvened at 7:00 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Amorose Groomes invited Cub Scout Troop 111 from Wyandot Elementary to lead
the Pledge of Allegiance. After the pledge, Mayor Amorose Grooms expressed appreciation
for the scouts’ participation, noting how scouting enriches the City. She thanked the scouts
for the valuable work they perform in the community.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS/ RECOGNITION
e 2026 Memorial Tournament
Ms. Ditty began by thanking the Council for the opportunity to present. She
expressed excitement about sharing the complete branding package for the
Memorial Tournament presented by Workday for the City, emphasizing that this
year marks the tournament's fiftieth anniversary. She highlighted the long-
standing partnership between the tournament and the City, noting that the
partnership has been just as lengthy as the tournament's history.
Temporary signage installation dates are scheduled for April 20th through 24th
with the intention of going live on April 27th. The teardown is planned for June
8th through 12th, with the tournament itself running from June 1st through 7th.
Ms. Ditty shared several key facts about the tournament, noting that the field
remains at 72 players with a purse of $20 million. As a signature event on the
tour, the tournament maintains several broadcast partners for both linear and
digital television coverage, providing over 40 hours of live and taped
programming. The tournament reaches over 215 countries and territories
globally.
She outlined the tournament's key pillars of honor, showcase, and benefit,
explaining that the benefit pillar relates to the charities supported by the
tournament. Nationwide Children's Hospital has been the primary beneficiary
since the beginning, with the Eat.Learn.Play. Foundation joining with Workday a
few years ago. Additionally, the tournament donates to over 50 other charities
based on needs.
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The 2026 honorees were announced as David Graham and posthumously Alan
Robertson. Ms. Ditty emphasized the importance of the over 3,000 volunteers
who make the tournament possible. She continued with details about signature
events throughout the year. The Legends Luncheon was scheduled for Tuesday,
May 5th, followed by media day on Wednesday, May 6th. Jack Nicklaus was
expected to participate in both the Legends Luncheon and media day. A time
capsule reveal was planned for May 6th in coordination with the association
alongside the media day.
The honorary ceremony would take place on Wednesday, June 3rd with David
Graham present along with his family. The benefit concert was planned for
Thursday, June 4th, followed by FORE!Fest on the 5th and 6th, with the final
round on Sunday, June 7th.
Ms. Ditty described the plans to bring back oversized golf balls at Riverside
Crossing Park, which have been popular photo opportunities for visitors. A new
element for the fiftieth anniversary was introduced: a 6-foot logo monument
along with oversized pin flags. This monument would be temporarily placed at
Riverside Crossing Park to complement the golf balls, with 50 flags representing
the fiftieth anniversary. Another new element for the anniversary celebration
involved the Dublin Link Bridge, where winners and honorees would be listed as
temporary decals for people walking across the bridge in either direction. This
would provide a sense of the tournament's history regardless of which direction
visitors were walking.
Road decals were also planned for Memorial Drive, similar to those used during
the President's Cup, to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary. The disc golf course at
Riverside Crossing Park would return, providing entertainment for families and
residents. Pole banners would expand slightly from previous years, extending
from Avery Muirfield Drive up to Glick Road, and similarly on Dublin Road up to
Glick Road. These memorial-specific banners would be placed on Avery-Muirfield
and Dublin roads, while Bridge Park would share some banners with FORE!Fest
for promotion.
The presentation concluded with various collaboration points that the
tournament organization greatly appreciates with the City. Communication was
identified as key, with coordination between the city team and Visit Dublin.
Parking and traffic management were noted as essential for the experience of
both fans and residents. Safety remained a priority for everyone involved, with
hospitality continuing both on and off the course.
From a community standpoint, Ms. Ditty emphasized the collaborative effort to
celebrate the fiftieth anniversary, working not only with the City but also with
Visit Dublin, Dublin Historical Society, and Dublin Arts Council. She noted the
extensive collaborative efforts planned to commemorate this milestone
anniversary.
CITIZEN COMMENTS
There were no citizen comments.
CONSENT AGENDA
e Minutes of the March 9, 2026 Regular Council Meeting
e Notice to the Legislative Authority of a Transfer of Ownership of a D1, D2
and D3 Liquor Permit from Norms Place Inc, 6314 Cosgray Road, Dublin,
Ohio 43016 to City of Dublin, SportsOhio - PowerPlay, 6314 Cosgray Road,
Dublin, Ohio 43016
Hearing no request to remove an item from the Consent Agenda, Mayor Amorose Groomes
moved to approve the Consent Agenda.
Ms. Alutto seconded the motion.
Meeting
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Vote on the motion: Ms. Kramb, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Dr.
Lam, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Ms. Johnson, yes.
SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING — ORDINANCES
Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to waive the Council Rules of Order and read Ordinances
16-26 through 18-26 together.
Ms. Alutto seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Johnson, yes;
Mr. Keeler, yes; Dr. Lam, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes.
Ordinance 16-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.042-Acre Warranty Deed from the
Property Located at 5611 Avery Road, Identified as Franklin County Parcel
Number 274-000098 from Gurpal Kaur, for the Public Purpose of Constructing
a Shared Use Path, Drainage and Roadway Improvements, Which Shall be
Open to the Public Without Charge
Ordinance 17-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.116-Acre Warranty Deed from the
Property Located at 5689 Avery Road, Identified as Franklin County Parcel
Number 273 -010593 From Scioto Properties SP-17 LLC, for the Public Purpose
of Constructing a Shared Use Path, Drainage and Roadway Improvements,
Which Shall be Open to the Public Without Charge
Ordinance 18-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.076-Acre Warranty Deed from the
Property Located at 5695 Avery Road, Identified as Franklin County Parcel
Number 274 -000122 From Ohio Venture Properties, LLC, for the Public
Purpose of Constructing a Shared Use Path, Drainage and Roadway
Improvements, Which Shall be Open to the Public Without Charge
Mr. Gable reported that there have been no changes to these ordinances from the first
reading. Staff recommended adoption of these ordinances.
There were no public comments.
Vote on the Ordinances: Ms. Johnson, yes; Dr. Lam, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes;
Ms. Alutto, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes.
INTRODUCTION/FIRST READING — ORDINANCES
Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to waive the Council Rules of Order and read Ordinances
19-26 through 22-26 together.
Ms. Alutto seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Ms. Alutto, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Mayor Amorose
Groomes, yes; Ms. Johnson, yes; Dr. Lam, yes.
Ordinance 19-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.011-acre Temporary Right-of-way
Easement; and a 0.007-acre Temporary Right-of-way Easement from NWP IV,
LLC, an Ohio limited liability company, from the Property Located at 16-18
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Bridge Street for the Public Purpose of Constructing and Improving Roadway
Infrastructure, which shall be Open to the Public Without Charge
Ordinance 20-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.011-acre Temporary Right-of-way
Easement; and a 0.016-acre Temporary Right- of-way Easement; and a 0.017-
acre Permanent Utility Easement from Community Space Development LLC, an
Ohio limited liability company, from the Property Located at 56 North High
Street for the Public Purpose of Constructing and Improving Roadway
Infrastructure, which shall be Open to the Public Without Charge
Ordinance 21-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.010-acre Fee Simple Warranty Deed
for Right- of-way; and a 0.051- acre Fee Simple Warranty Deed for Right-of-
way, with Reservation of Existing Access Rights, from Dublin West D, LLC, an
Ohio limited liability company, from the Property Located at 86-88 North High
Street for the Public Purpose of Constructing and Improving Roadway
Infrastructure, which shall be Open to the Public Without Charge
Ordinance 22-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.011-acre Permanent Utility Easement;
and a 0.006-acre Permanent Utility Easement from CSD Dublin LLC, an Ohio
limited liability company, from the Property Located at 37 and 53 North
Riverview Street for the Public Purpose of Constructing and Improving
Roadway Infrastructure, which shall be Open to the Public Without Charge
Ms. Alutto introduced the Ordinances.
Ms. Willis presented the staff report, explaining that these four conveyance ordinances
would complete the property acquisition legislation needed for the northern historic Dublin
infrastructure improvements project. She displayed a parcel map identifying the four
parcels of interest: NWP IV LLC, Community Space Development LLC, Dublin West D LLC,
and CSD Dublin LLC.
Ms. Willis detailed each acquisition:
Parcel 1 (NWP IV LLC) agreed to the fair market value estimation of $6,370 for a 0.011-
acre temporary construction easement.
Parcel 6 (Community Space Development LLC, also known as CoHatch) agreed to donate
the necessary land for multiple easements in accordance with their development
agreement terms.
Parcel 8 (Dublin West D LLC or Crawford) also agreed to donate necessary land for two
warranty deeds, with Ms. Willis expressing appreciation for Crawford Hoying’s continued
partnership and willingness to work with the City as the project and surrounding area
continue to develop.
Parcel 10 (CSD Dublin LLC, again CoHatch) agreed to donate permanent utility easements
in accordance with their development agreement terms.
Staff recommended approval of ordinances 19-26 through 22-26 at the second reading
public hearing scheduled for April 13, 2026.
There were no public comments.
Second reading/public hearing is scheduled for April 13, 2026.
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Ordinance 23-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.071-Acre Easement from the Property
Located at 6939 Shier Rings Road, Identified as Franklin County Parcel Number
272-000364 from John A. McCauley and Dion M. McCauley, for the Public
Purpose of Constructing a Shared Use Path, Which Shall be Open to the Public
Without Charge
Ms. Alutto introduced the Ordinance.
Mr. Gable provided the staff report, explaining that the Shier Rings Road project from
Eiterman Road to Cosgray Road would construct a shared use path along the south side of
Shier Rings Road, connecting two existing shared use paths and improving overall network
connectivity.
Mr. Gable noted that in 2024, the City entered an agreement with Washington Township
for construction and maintenance of the path. The Township submitted and received
LinkUs grant funding in 2026. Acquisition of property interests from nine property owners
was necessary, with this ordinance providing for one acquisition. The City had participated
in good faith discussions with property owners and arrived at mutually agreeable terms.
This ordinance completes the acquisitions except for one proceeding through the
appropriation process. Mr. Gable explained the challenge of locating the owner of the final
property, with legal assistance being provided to find ways to locate them. The hope was
to find the owner and come to mutually agreeable terms.
In response to Ms. Johnson’s question, Mr. Gable stated that if appropriation through the
courts became necessary, the timeline could extend up to a year depending on court
scheduling. In that scenario, staff would work with LinkUs funding to see if adjustments
could be made, or find alternative approaches to proceed with the project while potentially
managing a small gap temporarily.
Mayor Amorose Groomes expressed hope that if the project proceeded smoothly, it might
be the first LinkUs project completed, which would serve as great testimony to the ballot
initiative and its intended accomplishments. The goal was to locate the property owner
successfully and reach a mutually agreeable resolution.
There were no public comments.
Second reading/public hearing is scheduled for April 13, 2026.
INTRODUCTION/PUBLIC HEARING/VOTE — RESOLUTIONS
Resolution 13-26
Accepting the Lowest and Best Bid for the Street Maintenance Program 2026 —
Phase 1 (26-001-CIP)
Ms. Alutto introduced the Resolution.
Mr. Gable the staff report for Resolution 13-26, which involved accepting the lowest and
best bid for the Street Maintenance Program 2026 Phase 1. The program consists of
replacing deteriorated concrete curb and gutter, street base stabilization, milling of
deteriorated pavement surfaces, placement of new asphalt pavement, and other
associated street maintenance work to maintain the average pavement condition index of
the roadway network in good condition.
The program was funded from the 2026 through 2030 Capital Improvements Program
(CIP) with $7.4 million from the annual street maintenance program and $875,000 from
the traffic signal and electrical infrastructure maintenance program, for combined funding
of $8.275 million.
The Engineer's Estimate for Phase 1 was $4.026 million. On February 12, 2026, five bids
were received and publicly opened. The Shelly Company submitted the lowest and best bid
of $3,464,369.85. Construction is expected to commence in April and be complete in
October 2026.
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There were no public comments.
Ms. Kramb asked about the scope of work, specifically whether it included purely paving or
also median work. She referenced Emerald Parkway and asked about fixing broken
concrete on medians. Mr. Gable confirmed that stamped concrete would be removed and
replaced with brick, as had been done with other sections of Emerald Parkway. This would
be the last section with stamped concrete. If curbing was damaged, it would also be
replaced.
Vote on the Resolution: Dr. Lam, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Johnson, yes;
Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes.
Resolution 14-26
Accepting the Lowest and Best Bid for the Street Maintenance Program 2026 —
Phase 2 (26-002-CIP)
Ms. Alutto introduced the Resolution.
Mr. Gable presented Resolution 14-26 for the Street Maintenance Program 2026 Phase 2,
which consisted of similar street maintenance work as Phase 1. The program used the
same combined funding of $8.275 million from the Capital Improvements Program.
The Engineer's Estimate for Phase 2 was $4.2 million. On March 4, 2026, four bids were
received and publicly opened. Strawser Paving Company Incorporated submitted the
lowest and best bid of $3,446,328.85. Construction was expected to commence in April
and be complete in October 2026.
The total of both street maintenance program low bids received was $723,687.45 under
the budgeted amount within the CIP. Other projects planned in 2026 would utilize much of
the remaining funding in the account.
Staff recommended Council approval accepting Strawser Company Incorporated's bid for
Phase 2 of the 2026 Program.
There were no public comments.
Mayor Amorose Groomes inquired about the projects that had not been identified during
budget season that could now be added. Mr. Gable explained that one project requiring
advancement from the 2027 CIP was work at the Dublin Road and Emerald Parkway
intersection. This work included signal modifications, dealing with stamped concrete,
installing additional ramps, and other key items.
Due to material lead times, items needed to be ordered in advance, requiring design and
budgeting a year early. Much of this project work was accounted for in the remaining
funds, with an estimated cost of approximately $850,000. Staff was also considering
advancing one or two lower-priority streets within the program to utilize the rest of the
available funding.
Vote on the Resolution: Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Johnson, yes; Dr. Lam, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes;
Mr. Keeler, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes.
OTHER BUSINESS
° North Market Wine Festival Alcohol Waiver
Ms. LeRoy presented the request for an alcohol waiver to serve alcohol on public
property for the annual North Market Wine Festival. This would be the third year
of the event, scheduled for September 18 from 5:00 to 10:00 PM and September
19 from 2:00 to 10:00 PM, the same operating hours as previous years.
Staff would work with the organizers on their security plan and fencing details,
with special duty officers required to be on-site. Staff recommended approval of
the North Market's request for the alcohol waiver on city property for the wine
festival.
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There were no public comments.
Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to approve the Alcohol Waiver requested for
the purposes of the North Market Wine Festival.
Ms. Alutto seconded.
Vote on the motion: Ms. Johnson, yes; Dr. Lam, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Ms.
Kramb, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Ms. Keeler, yes.
DORA Expansion, Block G & Riverside Crossing Park
Ms. LeRoy presented the first request to expand DORA boundaries since
establishing the single DORA in 2022, when the East and West DORAs were
combined to make connections over the bridge and through the park. She
displayed a map showing the difference between the active DORA area (beige
boundary) and the official boundary approved by the state of Ohio (purple
boundary).
The State allows Council to decide how much of the official boundary should be
active at any given time.
Ms. LeRoy explained that Town Golf Club had opened but was not in the official
active DORA area, necessitating activation of their corner at Bridge Park Avenue
and Mooney Street on the northeast corner. To ensure sidewalk access, a
portion of Mooney Street sidewalk also needed activation.
Bristol Republic was expected to open around Memorial Tournament time in the
southeast corner of Mooney and Bridge Park Avenue. Staff wanted to activate
that sidewalk area as well to accommodate increased pedestrian traffic, while
keeping parking garages out of the active area as previously requested by
council.
Currently in Riverside Crossing Park, only paved areas were active, such as
where the ice rink operates and the fountain area, but no grass areas. Last year,
Council had approved temporary activation of grass areas during the summer
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series. Staff researched other DORAs in Central Ohio, noting that the Arena
District DORA was only active during specific events like Crew, Clippers, or Blue
Jackets games.
Following the community events roadmap discussion, staff requested the ability
to activate grass areas through the community event permit process. This would
ensure police presence and street staff review, with meetings required for any
event requesting such activation. The forest area would remain outside the
DORA boundary.
Staff recommended expansion on sidewalks on Mooney Street south of Larimer
Street and north of Longshore Street, as well as the property at 6620 Mooney
Street where the golf club was located. Staff also recommended approval of the
DORA in Riverside Crossing Park through the community event permitting
process.
There were no public comments.
Ms. Kramb suggested making the grass areas of Riverside Crossing Park
permanently active rather than requiring event permits. She noted the confusion
for visitors who could walk to the plaza or cross the bridge to the fountain but
then could not continue into grass areas. She felt this would simplify things for
people and noted that visitors had been respectful in using trash receptacles.
Ms. Alutto agreed with Ms. Kramb's assessment, expressing appreciation for the
conservative and slow approach Council had taken with the DORA
implementation. She noted the success of the program over several years and
supported simplifying the process by permanently activating the requested areas
rather than requiring staff to approve them through events processes.
Mr. Keeler and Dr. Lam also expressed agreement with permanent activation.
In response to Dr. Lam’s question about staff perspective, Ms. LeRoy confirmed
that staff would be supportive of permanent activation, acknowledging the
confusion caused by the current boundaries and the challenge of additional
signage potentially cluttering the park.
Ms. Johnson asked about additional waste receptacles in the park. Ms. LeRoy
noted they would continue to monitor needs but highlighted that staff was
regularly present in the area and had recycling bins and crushers available.
Mayor Amorose Groomes noted it was easier to add areas than remove them,
explaining the cautious approach of not wanting people to become accustomed
to open containers in an area only to later restrict access.
Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to expand the DORA to Block G and areas of
Riverside Crossing Park as specified.
Ms. Alutto seconded.
Vote on the motion: Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Dr. Lam, yes; Ms. Alutto,
yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Johnson, yes.
e DORA Extension for Columbus Crew World Cup Watch Party
Ms. LeRoy presented a new request for a one-time DORA extension for an
official watch party on June 12, 2026 when the USA plays in the World Cup in
Los Angeles. This request was originated by the Columbus Crew and Crawford
Hoying.
Due to the late timing of the west coast game, the event was expected to be
large, with the Columbus Crew planning official watch parties in other areas of
central Ohio. Dublin's event was positioned as the premier celebration for that
first night.
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The Crew requested extending DORA hours until midnight in case the soccer
match ran over, since exact ending times were unpredictable. The event would
use a similar footprint to FORE! Fest with large screens and DORA stations from
existing restaurants, plus food trucks and tables to encourage community
participation.
Staff had not yet conducted the official event permit review but wanted early
Council approval for planning purposes. Meetings were scheduled in coming
weeks to determine security plans and barricade locations for road closures.
Staff recommended approval of extending DORA hours for the special event on
June 12, 2026.
There were no public comments.
Mr. Keeler expressed sympathy for Bridge Park residents, noting they had grown
accustomed to establishments staying open until midnight and various events,
but remained concerned about residents wanting early bedtimes. He indicated
preference for extending hours only until 11:00 PM rather than midnight but
noted it was not a critical issue for him.
Ms. LeRoy suggested they could discuss sound system management during the
event permit meeting, noting that establishments would remain open even if
outdoor activities ended earlier. The sound could potentially be turned off when
the game concluded.
Mayor Amorose Groomes also expressed sympathy for residents, noting the late
hour and the presence of families living in the area. She suggested exploring
flexibility in the arrangements and emphasized the need for contingency
planning when events might draw larger crowds than anticipated, particularly on
beautiful evenings when attendance could grow exponentially beyond
expectations. She stressed the importance of safety planning and suggested
considering contingency measures for crowd control, noting that the City
remained responsible for safety in these areas regardless of estimated
attendance numbers.
Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to extend the hours of the DORA to 11:59 PM
for the Columbus Crew World Cup Watch Party on June 12, 2026.
Ms. Alutto seconded.
Vote on the motion: Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes,
yes; Ms. Johnson, yes; Dr. Lam, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes.
Memorial Tournament Temporary Sign Approval Request
Ms. LeRoy noted that Heather Ditty had already covered much of the signage
request during her earlier presentation. Staff recommended approval of all
signage items discussed, including the new elements for the anniversary year
such as bridge decals and the commemorative monument piece.
Ms. LeRoy highlighted that bridge decals were a new feature, though the City
had experience with decals in the plaza and other areas, providing confidence in
installation and removal procedures. The commemorative piece was noted as
emblematic of the anniversary year celebration.
Mayor Amorose Groomes expressed particular appreciation for the bridge display
featuring all tournament champions, describing it as a literal walk through
history that visitors could experience while seeing names like Tiger Woods
appearing three times among the winners.
There were no public comments.
Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to approve the temporary sign request for the
Memorial Tournament.
Ms. Alutto seconded the motion.
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Vote on the motion: Ms. Alutto, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Keeler,
yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Johnson, yes; Dr. Lam, yes.
West Bridge Street Corridor Visioning Update
Ms. Rauch presented an update on the Bridge Street visioning study that had
been partially presented to Council in July regarding the east side of Bridge
Street. She explained that the current presentation covered the west portion of
the corridor as part of a larger corridor study.
Ms. Rauch described the project background, noting how the Bridge Street
corridor had evolved over time from a transportation-focused, suburban design
model on the east side to the Bridge Street District development pattern, and
then through the Historic District toward the 1-270 interchange. The study aimed
to look at the area holistically and align an implementation strategy with
Envision Dublin goals for pedestrian-friendly, multi-modal transportation options.
The study also considered future LinkUs bus rapid transit connections along the
corridor. The project was approached in two phases while trying to identify
development patterns and streetscape possibilities.
Major focus areas included managing speed while providing safe pedestrian
movement, examining mobility options, and transforming the corridor to serve
all users. The study addressed how redevelopment planning should proceed
when the development community brings forward projects, establishing vision
for streetscape elements like sidewalks and lane widths, and incorporating
transit options including LinkUs.
The East Bridge Street Study presented to Council in July had provided five
design alternatives considering lane widths, pedestrian facilities, bike paths, and
LinkUs placement. Council had extensive discussion about reducing travel lanes,
handling on-street parking, accommodating bicycle and pedestrian facilities,
roadway character, project timing, and coordination support for future
development projects.
Based on Council feedback, staff committed to follow-ups including evaluating
overall recommendations and conducting the West Bridge Street portion from
Scioto River to the Frantz Road interchange. The Study aims to ensure
alignment across the entire corridor from Sawmill Road to I-270 and integration
with the larger regional context.
The west side study included a new consultant, Jeff Speck, who was nationally
known for walkability expertise and had spoken at the 2024 Dublin Sustainability
Conference. Speck brought experience in simple design solutions that could
make significant differences in walkability.
The project began in November with goals including pedestrian connectivity, on-
street parking feasibility, streetscape improvements, bus rapid transit
integration, crosswalk safety, and implementation of future street connections
outlined in the Bridge Street code to create a traffic-distributing grid system.
Ms, Rauch announced that Jeff Speck would present on walkable cities on April
14th at the Wendy's corporate conference center, with the presentation open to
the public. Following that presentation, staff planned to return to Council in a
work session format to discuss recommendations for the entire corridor, with
consultants present to answer questions.
The goal was to complete the larger study by late summer or early fall 2026,
driven by numerous development projects along the corridor requiring guidance
and direction.
Mr. Speck had offered to conduct walking tours with council members on
Wednesday morning, which staff had found beneficial when conducted in
November. The walking tour would cover the area from essentially the Kroger
Meeting
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS unc Minutes of Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO. 10148 Marctr 23, 2026 Page 11 of 14
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development to the other side of the roundabout to Bridge Park, providing a
comprehensive perspective on the corridor.
Ms. Rauch requested feedback from council members about interest in the
walking tour, noting scheduling would be coordinated through the Clerk to
accommodate work schedules and group members appropriately.
Council Member Johnson thanked staff for the informative and detailed history
provided in the materials. Council Member Lam expressed interest in the walking
tour pending schedule details, with Ms. Rauch indicating they would coordinate
through the Clerk of Council to provide options and determine timing. Mayor
Amorose Groomes also expressed interest in the morning tour.
STAFF COMMENTS
Ms. O'Callaghan shared the following:
e The annual Sustainable Saturday event is scheduled at the service center on April
11th from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. She noted that last year's event diverted 46.22
tons of material, demonstrating residents' appreciation for this spring-cleaning
opportunity that advances sustainability plan goals by expanding community
recycling accessibility.
e The City has been awarded $120,000 in 5310 funding through the Mid-Ohio
Regional Planning Commission (MORPC), marking the seventh consecutive year of
receiving this grant award. The federal funds support transportation services for
older adults and individuals with disabilities, ensuring mobility options for residents
who may not be able to drive. The funding would directly support Dublin Connector
operations for seniors and residents with disabilities, providing on-demand
transportation within the community. She expressed appreciation for MORPC's
partnership and continued regional investment in equitable and accessible
transportation options.
COUNCIL REPORTS
e Committee Reports
o Finance Committee Report
Ms. Alutto reported that the Finance Committee met on March 18th for one
discussion item regarding the City's enterprise fund policy. The Committee
received a review of Dublin's enterprise fund policy for water and sanitary
sewer services, including fund structure, reserves, capital planning, and
debt considerations. Staff also introduced an enterprise fund approach for a
potential electric vehicle (EV) charger program. The Committee supported
establishing a defined fund balance or working capital target, with staff
planning to return for further discussion. Staff noted that a new utility rate
study would begin in spring 2026 with recommendations expected early fall.
The Committee discussed maintaining a regular study schedule and
considering interim adjustments to help avoid significant rate increases
rather than having large gaps between discussions.
There was support for operating the EV charger program as a self-
sustaining enterprise fund with measured expansion of approximately one
to two chargers per year to allow businesses time to develop charging
capabilities.
Next steps included initiating the rate study in spring with recommendations
to full Council in early fall, potentially as a multi-year rate plan. As part of
the 2027 budget process, staff would develop a fund balance policy,
continue refining capital planning, evaluate debt policy alignment, and
establish the EV charger fund and fee structure as the program moves
forward.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Meeting
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e Liaison Reports
o Dublin Board of Education Liaisons:
Dr. Lam reported that he and Vice Mayor De Rosa, along with city staff, met
with the Dublin City School Board chair and staff on March 2nd at Emerald
Campus for their first meeting, which began with introductions and sharing
significant activities both the Schools and City were undertaking in 2026.
The Deputy Superintendent shared information about high school
redistricting work beginning with focus groups and continuing throughout
the year with support from a new consulting firm. They provided a brief
overview of the school district's financial structures and funding sources for
the new group.
City staff reviewed Council's 2026 goals and shared updates on future code
changes regarding electric and motorized vehicles and minibikes. They
discussed opportunities for shared communication with students and
parents as the rollout of new rules was expected later in the year.
The meeting also covered opportunities for increased engagement and
information sharing. Dr. Lam thanked school leadership for the meeting
opportunities and discussed shared opportunities for community and
schools collaboration. The next meeting was scheduled for May 4th.
o US 33 Corridor Group & SR 161 Corridor Group:
Ms. Johnson reported that the 33 Corridor Group first met on February 13th
with no March meeting scheduled. The next meeting was planned for April
10th.
o Sports Ohio Steering Committee:
Ms. Alutto and Mr. Keeler had no report.
o Ms. Kramb_- PZC and ARB Liaison: Ms. Kramb_reported that the
Architectural Review Board meeting scheduled for March 25th had been
canceled for lack of agenda items.
o Ms. Johnson - Washington Township: Ms. Johnson reported that
Washington Township was joining the SR 161 Corridor Group and would be
present at Friday's kickoff meeting with Township Administrator Eric Richter
attending.
Washington Township was working through a new development proposal
called the Gateway Development, a retail development at SR 161 and
Weldon Road west of Dublin Green. The development spanned two counties
and two townships, creating complexity in the approval process. Ms.
Johnson believed they had already engaged with the City Manager for
awareness and input.
Ms. Johnson completed onboarding with the Township Administrator and
Fire Chief on March 19th, describing it as very informative and impressive.
They provided comprehensive materials in a binder that she offered to
share with other council members. Washington Township had kicked off
their strategic planning process on the previous Friday.
o Dr. Lam - Dublin Wellness Alliance: Dr. Lam reported that the Dublin
Wellness Alliance meeting scheduled for that day had been postponed to
April 6th, so they had not yet met.
o Mr. Keeler — Dublin Arts Council and Logan/Union/Champaign County
Regional Planning Commission: Mr. Keeler reported excitement building
around the Memorial Tournament, with the S/WING art installation due to be
installed April 8th through 10th at Whittingham Drive and Muirfield Drive. He
had nothing to report on the Logan Union Champaign County Commission.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Meeting
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o Mayor Amorose Groomes — MORPC: Mayor Amorose Groomes reported that
the MORPC Commission meeting was held on March 12th, welcoming
Sharon Township as the 94th member. The meeting included the annual air
quality report and passage of the complete streets policy, with anticipation
for projects resulting from that policy.
COUNCIL ROUNDTABLE
Ms. Kramb reported attending MORPC's annual State of the Region event on Friday, March
20th, with several other council members. She announced that Mayor Chris Amorose
Groomes had been recognized by MORPC as the Regional Leadership Award winner for the
year, offering congratulations.
Ms. Johnson described meeting with residents of the Bridge Park West Condominium
Association on Saturday, noting lots of questions and open-mindedness about Historic
District development. She invited them to the groundbreaking for the new CoHatch
development on the 16th and hoped to see some attendees there.
Ms. Johnson raised a question about speed management on Dublin Road between Emerald
Parkway and North Riverview Street crossing, noting that speeds tend to drop quickly in
that area. With the Memorial Tournament approaching and out-of-town visitors expected,
she inquired whether the City implemented temporary speed limit changes in sensitive
areas during major events, specifically wondering if this could be a target zone for reduced
speeds during the tournament.
Ms. Alutto thanked staff for organizing Sustainable Saturday, noting that several people
had told her they save cardboard specifically for the event, along with electronics and
other items they prefer not to dispose of in regular trash. She emphasized appreciation for
landfill diversion efforts, explaining that the more material diverted from landfills, the
longer safe landfill capacity could be maintained.
Dr. Lam reported attending two iftars celebrating Ramadan, which had just concluded. The
first was an interfaith iftar on March 4th hosted at Noor Islamic Cultural Center, and the
second was hosted by his church, Dublin Community Church, on the 14th. He described
both as nice reminders of gratitude, devotion, and unity, expressing honor at participating.
Dr. Lam thanked staff for the amazing Saint Patrick's Day parade, noting it was highly
successful with one of the largest turnouts in recent years, with much fun and candy
distribution. He also thanked staff for their remarkable response to wind damage the night
before the parade, with crews working well into the night clearing paths and ensuring
route safety.
Mr. Keeler reported attending the Dublin Chamber Business Person of The Year event
hosted at Sarnova, praising their new headquarters as beautiful facilities worth visiting. He
had the pleasure of speaking about Business Person of the Year winner Jim Sauter from
Rusty Bucket restaurants, who was also a huge advocate for underserved and
underprivileged residents in Dublin, introducing them to various sports.
Mr. Keeler thanked the business district unit for their visible presence in Bridge Park on
Saturday night, noting numerous cruisers and officers issuing warnings or tickets. He
emphasized that enforcement was about keeping residents safe and preserving district
tranquility for people trying to enjoy meals on patios, rather than dealing with obnoxious
vehicles and tire spinning.
Mayor Amorose Groomes shared the following:
o She attended the State of the State on March 10th at the invitation of Ohio
Representative Crystal Lett, describing her first experience at such an event as
fascinating.
o OnMarch 11th, she visited Eli Pinney Elementary School's third-graders, describing
it as a great time with students asking excellent questions and expressing
confidence that the future was bright at Eli Pinney Elementary School.
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o She thanked staff for parade organization efforts.
o She congratulated Jim Sauter on the Business Person of The Year recognition,
noting his great advocacy and board membership with Life Sports and other
community organizations as an excellent chamber selection.
o OnMarch 19th, she attended the Ohio Mayor's Alliance meeting, discussing bills
working through the State House.
That evening she attended the State of the Region rehearsal dinner featuring
former Transportation Secretary Hood and DC consultant Marsha Hale discussing
rail development. She noted Mr. Hood's high optimism about passenger rail coming
to Ohio.
o The March 20th State of the Region event was praised as wonderful, with MORPC
hosting nearly 1,000 people, featuring an excellent futurist speaker and engaging
the larger community in transportation and development topics.
She also shared that while vacationing in Naples, Florida recently, she had discovered
interesting noise guidelines including a downloadable sound meter phone application. She
had forwarded this information to the City Manager for potential local application, noting
how quiet restaurant dining had been in that location.
She anticipated hearing metrics on new noise ordinance implementation and success in
future Chief updates.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:13 p.m. Ul. AL
Mayor — Presiding Officer
Chad Cha
Ook of Puncil