HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-10-2026 Council Meeting MinutesMinutes of
RECORD OREO GEEDINGS Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO, 10148
Held August 10, 2026
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Amorose Groomes called the Monday, August 10, 2026 Regular Meeting of Dublin
City Council to order at 6:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members present were Ms. Alutto, Mayor Amorose Groomes, Vice Mayor De Rosa, Ms.
Johnson, Mr. Keeler, Ms. Kramb and Dr. Lam.
Staff members present were Ms. O'Callaghan, Mr. Barker, Mr. Hartmann, Mr. Rubino, Chief
Paez, Ms. Weisenauer, Mr. Earman, Ms. Rauch, Ms. Noble, Ms. Holt, Mr. Hounshell, Mr.
Gracia, Ms. Goehring, Mr. Fleming, Mr. Gable, Mr. Hendershot, Ms. Hunter, Mr.
Hammersmith, Ms. Willis, Ms. Wawszkiewicz, Mr. Philabaum, Mr. Bitar, Ms. Suarez, Mr.
Ament, Mr. Jiang.
Others present: Greg Dale, McBride Dale Clarion (MDC) and Jeff Speck, Speck Dempsey.
ADJOURNMENT TO EXECUTIVE SESSION
Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to adjourn to executive session for the purposes of
considering the employment of a public employee.
Ms. Alutto seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Mr. Keeler, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms. Johnson, yes; Dr. Lam,
yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes.
The meeting reconvened at 7:02 PM.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Amorose Groomes invited Ms. Johnson to lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
CITIZEN COMMENTS
Ms. Weisenauer reported that no citizens had signed in at the kiosk to speak, though one
written comment had been received over the weekend and was provided to Council in
advance per established protocol.
Kevin Casey, 5315 Drumcally Ln, Dublin, stated he has a professional background in
cybersecurity and data privacy. He addressed Council regarding the City's use of the
Placer.ai location analytics platform, which estimates foot traffic using mobile device
location data. Mr. Casey acknowledged that, following months of correspondence with City
staff, the Communications and Marketing team had published a location analytics webpage
that plainly explains what data the City receives, what it does not receive, and how
residents may limit location sharing — work he characterized as excellent and above what
most cities using the tool have published.
Mr. Casey stated that he had brought two additional requests to the City, both of which
were declined in writing by the City's legal counsel on July 21st. His first request was that
the City proactively announce the existence of the location analytics page through
channels it already uses, such as resident email lists, Dublin Life, and event
communications, rather than sharing it only upon individual request. He argued that
residents who attended the Irish Festival and were counted by the platform could not be
expected to ask about a page they had never been informed of. His second request was
for staff to maintain a short address exclusion list when drawing geographic boundaries for
attendance reports, to avoid capturing data on homes that border event areas such as
Coffman Park. He contended that the anonymization of individual device data does not
resolve this concern, because the boundary itself can identify a household — a matter of
where the City chooses to draw its own lines, independent of what the vendor collects.
Mr. Casey emphasized that the City's practices are legal, but argued that legality
represents a floor, not a standard, and that Dublin has historically held itself to a higher
standard. He formally requested that Council direct staff to announce the location analytics
page through existing channels and to honor address exclusion requests when drawing
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS 5 ounc! 7 Minutes of Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO. 10148 A 44N 9n0e Dp oO nf4e£ AUGUST TU, ZUZO rage 2 orto
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report boundaries, noting that both actions carry minimal cost. He also reiterated his
standing offer to assist staff at no charge.
CONSENT AGENDA
° Minutes of the July 1, 2026 Regular Council Meeting
° Minutes of the August 3, 2026 Special Council Meeting
° Minutes of the August 3, 2026 Council Work Session
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.
Vote on the motion: Ms. Kramb, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Dr.
Lam, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Ms. Johnson, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes.
INTRODUCTION/FIRST READING — ORDINANCES
Ordinance 36-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.068-Acre Easement from the Property
Located at 4497 Hard Road, Identified as Franklin County Parcel Number 273-
009871-00 from Washington Township, for the Public Purpose of Carrying Out
the Annual Stormwater Management Basin Maintenance Program 2026 Project
(25-024-CIP)
Ms. Alutto introduced the Ordinance.
Mr. Hendershot presented the staff report. The Annual Stormwater Management Basin
Maintenance Program 2026 Project includes improvements to a dry detention basin in the
Riverside Woods neighborhood and within a City drainage easement at 4410 Mayapple
Court in the Woodlands neighborhood. Work includes regrading, storm sewer installation,
rock placement with underdrain, outlet control structure installation, and construction of a
berm and emergency spillway. The project is planned to be advertised for bids in August
2026, with construction commencing in fall 2026 and completion expected by spring 2027.
To facilitate construction and long-term maintenance of the Riverside Woods basin, the
project requires acquisition of a permanent and perpetual access easement from
Washington Township, the property owner of 4497 Hard Road. At its April 14, 2026
meeting, the Washington Township Board of Trustees approved a motion authorizing the
Township Administrator to donate the easement to the City. Staff expressed appreciation
to Washington Township for the donation.
There were no public comments.
Ms. Kramb expressed gratitude to Washington Township for their cooperation and
donation.
Second reading/public hearing is scheduled for August 24, 2026.
Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to waive the Council Rules of Order and read Ordinances
37-26 through 42-26 together.
Ms. Alutto seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Johnson, yes;
Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Dr. Lam, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes.
Ordinance 37-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.238-Acre Warranty Deed from the
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Property Located at 7720 Riverside Drive, Identified as Franklin County Parcel
Number 273-008758-00 From Samuel N. Lillard and Monica M. Szonn-Lillard,
for the Public Purpose of Constructing the Riverside Drive Shared Use Path,
Water Main and Sanitary Sewer Extensions, and Related Street Maintenance
Project, Which Shall be Open to the Public Without Charge
Ordinance 38-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.085-Acre Warranty Deed from the
Property Located at 7726 Riverside Drive, Identified as Franklin County Parcel
Number 273-008865-00 from John Dawson, for the Public Purpose of
Constructing the Riverside Drive Shared Use Path, Water Main and Sanitary
Sewer Extensions, and Related Street Maintenance Project, Which Shall be
Open to the Public Without Charge
Ordinance 39-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.511-Acre Warranty Deed, a 0.143-Acre
Permanent/ Perpetual Public Utility Easement, and a 0.014- Acre Temporary
Easement from the Property Located at 7730 Riverside Drive, Identified as
Franklin County Parcel Number 273-008625 -00 from Anita C. Plew and Charles
W. Hess, for the Public Purpose of Constructing the Riverside Drive Shared Use
Path, Water Main and Sanitary Sewer Extensions, and Related Street
Maintenance Project, Which Shall be Open to the Public Without Charge
Ordinance 40-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.055-Acre Warranty Deed and a 0.014-
Acre Temporary Easement from the Property Located at 7778 Riverside Drive,
Identified as Franklin County Parcel Number 273- 008427-00 from Sarah
Strasser, Trustee of the Sarah Strasser Revocable Trust U/A Dated July 10,
2001, for the Public Purpose of Constructing the Riverside Drive Shared Use
Path, Water Main and Sanitary Sewer Extensions, and Related Street
Maintenance Project, Which Shall be Open to the Public Without Charge
Ordinance 41-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.113-Acre Warranty Deed and a 0.055-
Acre Temporary Easement from the Property Located at 7836 Riverside Drive,
Identified as Franklin County Parcel Number 273-009131-00 from Rebecca J.
Hamilton and Wesley N. Hamilton, for the Public Purpose of Constructing the
Riverside Drive Shared Use Path, Water Main and Sanitary Sewer Extensions,
and Related Street Maintenance Project, Which Shall be Open to the Public
Without Charge
Ordinance 42-26
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Accept Necessary Conveyance
Documents and Contracts to Acquire a 0.039-Acre Permanent/Perpetual Public
Utility Easement from the Property Located at 4410 May Apple Court, Identified
as Franklin County Parcel Number 273- 009014-00 from Wilbert W. Harvey and
Barbara Wieser-Harvey, for the Public Purpose of Constructing the Riverside
Drive Shared Use Path, Water Main and Sanitary Sewer Extensions, and
Related Street Maintenance Project, Which Shall be Open to the Public Without
Charge
Ms. Alutto introduced the Ordinances.
Minutes of
RECORD OF GF RQGEEDINGS ounc ‘ Meeting
OVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 644-224-3338 FORM NO. 10148
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Mr. Gable presented the staff report covering six property acquisitions related to the
Riverside Drive Shared Use Path, Water Main and Sanitary Sewer Extensions, and Related
Street Maintenance Project. The overall project area extends along Riverside Drive
between Hard Road and Summit View Road and into the Drexel Hills and Woodlands
subdivisions. The project consolidates several planned City initiatives, including the
Riverside Drive East Shared Use Path, water main extensions in Areas 3A and 3B, sanitary
sewer extensions in Areas 3A and 3C, and street maintenance in the Woodlands and
Drexel Hills subdivisions.
The proposed shared use path will fill existing gaps in the City's mobility network along
Riverside Drive. Water main will be extended through the area and connected to existing
dead-end mains. Staff have coordinated with property owners in Areas 3A and 3B to install
water services to those who have agreed to connect. Sanitary sewer will be extended to
the existing Wyandotte Woods Boulevard pump station, with laterals installed to all homes
in the affected areas. Following utility work, street maintenance will be performed on Tonti
Drive, Tamarisk Court, Red Bay Court, and Mayapple Court, and the impacted lanes on
Riverside Drive will be resurfaced.
Acquisitions from nine property owners are required in total. The six ordinances before
Council address parcels 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 11, covering properties at 7720, 7726, 7730,
7778, and 7836 Riverside Drive and 4410 Mayapple Court. All six property owners agreed
to the City's appraised fair market value estimates.
There were no public comments.
Mayor Amorose Groomes raised a question regarding residences on the west side of
Riverside Drive that sit below the grade of the proposed sewer line, asking whether
information was available to homeowners about private lift station options. Mr. Gable
explained that the City will install a gravity service from the main to the west side of
Riverside Drive for these owners, terminated with a small manhole. For homes below the
elevation of the gravity system, a private grinder pump will be required, installed by a
contractor selected by the homeowner. Upon formal acceptance of the sanitary system,
the City sends a detailed packet to affected property owners explaining the connection
process and noting when a grinder pump may be necessary. Mr. Hammersmith clarified
that the City's permit review is limited to the discharge into the City's system and does not
encompass design review of the private pump itself.
Mayor Amorose Groomes inquired whether specifications or guidance materials are
provided in advance so homeowners and their contractors can understand what will pass
inspection. Mr. Gable indicated that, in addition to the informational packet, staff can share
examples of previous permits involving grinder pumps and can consult with homeowners
and their contractors on equipment sizing. Mayor Amorose Groomes expressed a
preference for a more standardized handbook to assist contractors unfamiliar with City
requirements.
Regarding water service, Mr. Gable confirmed that for all homes with signed water
commitment letters, the City will install a sleeve and water service to the curb box on the
property side of the right-of-way. For homes that have not committed, the City will still
install a sleeve to facilitate future connection but cannot install active water service.
Second reading/public hearing of Ordinances 37-26 through 42-26 is scheduled for August
24, 2026.
Ordinance 43-26
Authorizing the Provision of Certain Incentives to John W. Danforth Company
to Induce it to Lease Space in an Existing Office Building to Relocate the
Company’s Existing Office from Within the City and to Expand that New Office
and its Associated Operations and Workforce, and to Relocate Existing and
Create New Jobs and Employment Opportunities, all within the City; and
Authorizing the Execution of an Economic Development Agreement
Ms. Alutto introduced the Ordinance.
Minutes of
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GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO, 10148
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Ms. Goehring presented the report. John W. Danforth Company, a full-cycle mechanical
services provider in mechanical contracting, engineered building systems, and energy
solutions, is considering relocating to a leased space in Dublin. The proposed economic
development agreement includes a two-year, 15-percent incentive on withholdings
followed by a five-year, 10-percent performance incentive on withholdings, valued at
$353,000 over the term of the agreement. A one-time $50,000 location grant is also
proposed to support facility renovation costs. The project is expected to retain 125 existing
jobs and create 100 new Dublin-based jobs by December 31, 2033, generating
approximately $1,904,000 in net withholdings over the seven-year term.
There were no public comments.
Second reading/public hearing is scheduled for August 24, 2026.
Ordinance 44-26
Authorizing the Provision of Certain Incentives to InnoSource, LLC to Induce it
to Lease Space in an Existing Office Building to Relocate the Company's
Existing Office from within the City and to Expand that New Office and its
Associated Operations and Workforce, and to Relocate Existing and Create New
Jobs and Employment Opportunities, all within the City; and Authorizing the
Execution of an Economic Development Agreement
Ms. Alutto introduced the Ordinance.
Ms. Goehring presented this item. InnoSource LLC, a provider of staffing, human
resources, recruiting, and workforce technology solutions serving sectors including
financial services, insurance, healthcare, and contact centers, is considering relocating its
offices to a leased facility in Dublin. The proposed economic development agreement
includes a five-year, 10-percent performance incentive on withholdings valued at up to
$100,000, along with a $50,000 location grant for facility renovation costs. The project is
projected to retain 80 existing jobs and create 24 new Dublin-based jobs by December 31,
2031, generating approximately $846,000 in net withholdings over the five-year term.
There were no public comments.
Second reading/public hearing is scheduled for August 24, 2026.
Ordinance 45-26
Authorizing the Provision of Certain Incentives to Northwest Bank to Induce it
to Lease an Office Building to Relocate Existing Employees from outside the
City and Expand the New Office and its Associated Operations and Workforce,
all within the City; and Authorizing the Execution of an Economic Development
Agreement
Mr. Alutto introduced the Ordinance.
Mr. Fleming presented the report. Following an exhaustive nationwide search that included
opportunities in their current home City of Columbus, Northwest Bank has chosen to
relocate the majority of its operations to Dublin. The transition involves moving a current
headcount of 120 employees with an expansion target of 300 employees by the end of
2034. The proposed economic development agreement includes a five-year, 15-percent
performance incentive on withholdings from net new employees, capped at $460,000, as
well as a one-time $50,000 grant payable upon proof of an executed 15-year lease
agreement and proof of occupancy. Mr. Fleming noted that Northwest Bank's decision to
locate in Dublin reflects the City's strong business-friendly environment and commitment
to economic growth.
There were no public comments.
Mr. Keeler congratulated Economic Development on a successful month.
Second reading/public hearing is scheduled for August 24, 2026.
Minutes of
RECORD OF FROGEEDINGS City Council Meeting
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INTRODUCTION/PUBLIC HEARING/VOTE — RESOLUTIONS
Resolution 31-26
Accepting the Lowest and Best Bid for the Concrete Sealing Maintenance
2026 Project (26-009-CIP)
Ms. Alutto introduced the Resolution.
Mr. Gable presented the staff report. This project provides for the sealing of four concrete
pedestrian tunnels under Muirfield Drive using an epoxy urethane sealer, with concrete
spot repairs and tunnel joint repairs to be performed prior to sealing. The project is funded
through the 2026-2030 Capital Improvements Program at $300,000, with the engineer's
estimate for this specific work at $115,000. Three bids were received and publicly opened
on June 17, 2026. Martin Painting and Coating Company submitted the lowest and best
bid of $105,629. Work is expected to commence in August and be complete by October
2026.
There were no public comments.
Mayor Amorose Groomes raised a question regarding the timing of the project in relation
to the anticipated Fourth Water Plant pipeline burial, which may pass through the area.
Mr. Gable confirmed that the water plant project is planned to either go around or bore
under the pedestrian tunnels without directly impacting them, and that coordination has
taken place on this matter. Mayor Amorose Groomes noted that if boring were to occur
beneath the tunnels during or after the sealing work, any resulting damage would be the
responsibility of the water plant project, and accepted the staff's assessment.
Vote on the Resolution: Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Ms.
Johnson, yes; Dr. Lam, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes.
OTHER BUSINESS
° Zoning Code and Subdivision Requlations Audit — Final Report Adoption
Ms. Holt and Mr. Dale of McBride Dale Clarion (MDC) presented the final code
audit report. Mr. Dale provided an overview of the project timeline, noting that
the effort began at the end of 2025 and was on schedule approximately eight
months in. He reviewed the four land use priorities — quality and character of
neighborhood and sense of place, mobility, housing, and infill and adaptive
reuse — as well as the six evaluation themes that organized the audit. Mr. Dale
summarized feedback received at the June 2026 joint work session, including
strong support for reorganizing and modernizing the code into a more user-
friendly, graphically-oriented document; a desire for public transparency and
trackability of changes; discussion of subdivision regulations and PUD process
improvements; the importance of tying the audit to fiscal health and
sustainability; and a need to more strongly acknowledge the Historic District.
Council had also expressed caution around housing density increases and the
importance of deliberate discussion on that topic.
Mr. Dale reported that changes had been made to the audit in response to
Council feedback, including new language regarding the incorporation of vision
documents, subdivision regulations, the Historic District, and various editorial
refinements.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO. 10148
Held August 10, 2026 Page 7 of 15
Implementation Recommendations
Option Task Time
Reorganize and Restructure the Zoning
1 Code and Subdivision Regulations into a 10-12 months
Unified Development Ordinance
24 + months
Make Targeted Updates to the ee 3 Variable Development Regulations
Ms. Holt presented the staff recommendation to proceed with Option 2 for
implementation, which had been the overwhelming preference at the June joint
work session. This approach involves a two-year code rewrite split into two
separate phases.
Ms. Johnson and Ms. Kramb both noted an inconsistency in the audit document,
which in multiple places states that the project will not evaluate or propose
substantive changes to the West Innovation District (WID). However, the
subsequent ID-2 and ID-3 agenda item and prior Council direction contemplate
a comprehensive look at those districts. Ms. Rauch clarified that the intent is not
to restart the recently completed ID-6 process, but that ID-2 and ID-3 will
indeed be reviewed as part of this project, and that the language in the
document would be corrected to remove the blanket exclusion of WID from the
scope.
Council Members Kramb, Lam, and Alutto each expressed reservations about
eliminating parking minimums and allowing the market to determine parking
demand. Ms. Kramb cited the Bridge Street District as an example where the
absence of planning led to costly retroactive parking studies and loading zone
additions. Dr. Lam referenced Miami, Florida, which repealed parking minimums
in 2015 and subsequently reversed the decision in 2022 due to spillover into
adjacent residential areas, noting this as a relevant precedent. Ms. Alutto
concurred that the impacts seen in Bridge Park should inform this decision. Vice
Mayor De Rosa offered a dissenting perspective, pointing to the 7,500 parking
spaces at Metro Center as an example of car-centric formula-driven
overbuilding, and encouraged consultants to bring creative alternatives that do
not simply replicate the same environment. Mr. Keeler also cautioned against
overshooting parking estimates, noting that the upcoming BRT discussion
contemplates riders who will not arrive by car. Mayor Amorose Groomes
expressed a similar view, suggesting the existing parking models may need
reassessment given Citywide patterns of what appears to be overparking, and
requested analysis of what Metro Center would yield under current modeling
before drawing conclusions about whether existing standards are appropriate or
not.
Mayor Amorose Groomes noted that the audit matrix assigns checkmarks to
"Promote Economic Development" to only three items and suggested that
virtually every element of the code rewrite — improved usability, updated PUD
standards, enhanced site development standards — is an economic development
action, and recommended that framing be reflected throughout the document.
Vice Mayor De Rosa and Ms. Johnson each encouraged the consulting team to
explore how emerging AI tools could be used both in the creation of the new
code and in making it searchable and consumable by end users and large
language models. Mr. Dale acknowledged this as an open and evolving area and
committed to exploring relevant tools in partnership with City staff.
Minutes of
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
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GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO. 10148
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Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to adopt the final code audit report and next
steps. .
Ms. Alutto seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Dr. Lam, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms.
Johnson, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr.
Keeler, yes.
Bridge Street Corridor Visioning Update
Ms. Noble and Mr. Speck of Speck Dempsey presented an update on the Bridge
Street Corridor Visioning Study, covering both the East and West Bridge Street
corridor segments as a holistic corridor. Ms. Noble noted the purpose of the
evening was to confirm Council's continued support for the direction established
at the June 2026 work session and to receive feedback on conceptual plan
drawings developed since that session in preparation for a final report
anticipated for November 2026.
East Bridge Street
Mr. Speck confirmed that Speck Dempsey supports Alternative A among the
options studied for the East Bridge Street corridor, which had also received
support from the previous Council discussion. He noted that a memo was being
prepared identifying potential improvements, including the application of a
slightly lower design speed that would allow for the elimination of gore striping
that unnecessarily widens the street approaching intersections.
West Bridge Street
Frantz Shawan High School Franklin High | Riverview Road Falls Drive Road Street Street Street
Me e) Blacksmi jonterey Mitt tane 4 Blacksmith Drive Lane
Mr. Speck presented plan-view drawings for the entire West Bridge Street
corridor from Frantz Road to Riverview Street, organized into segments
reflecting the changing character and width of the street.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO. 10748
August 10, 2026 Page 9 of 15 Held 20 | In the westernmost segment (Frantz Road to Shawan Falls Drive), the proposal
involves eliminating one westbound lane (pending traffic modeling
confirmation), removing wide shoulders, narrowing lanes to appropriate widths,
and introducing a widened treed median. New sidewalk is proposed on the
south side, and existing overhead utilities would be buried. The expanded
median is noted as an ideal future location for BRT dedicated lanes in this
segment without requiring changes to the street edges.
In the Shawan Falls to Monterey Drive segment, the plan introduces a signalized
intersection at Monterey Drive, pedestrian crosswalks, closure of one of two curb
cuts at the gas station to the south, parallel parking along the Monterey Village
frontage, and continuation of the treed median. An eleven-foot multiuse path for
bicycles and pedestrians is proposed on the north side for this and subsequent
segments.
Near the cemetery, the sidewalk widens using the space gained from lane and
shoulder right-sizing. Tree grates or unit pavers are proposed rather than a
grass strip in this constrained section, allowing a more generous pedestrian
surface.
Approaching and east of Franklin Street, existing streetscaping is largely
retained, with tree additions and the introduction of on-street parking on the
east side of High Street. At the bridge over the Scioto River, the proposal
envisions removal of gore striping near Blacksmith Lane, allowing the bridge
sidewalk to widen and enabling tree planting west of Blacksmith Lane.
BRT Integration
ae a : Tee Z i BiDirectional Option 5
: wie“
-* Two Dedicated Lanes
Mr. Speck presented an analysis of how BRT could be accommodated within
each segment. In the wide western segment (Segment C), a widened median
can accommodate two dedicated bus lanes without changing street edges. In
the narrow eastern segment (Segment A), the constrained right-of-way would
require the bus to mix with traffic, consistent with other portions of the COTA
route. In the central Segment B, four options were presented: two bidirectional
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
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GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO. 10148
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single-lane options (Options A and B, differentiated by stop placement), a two-
dedicated-lane center option requiring reconstruction of the northern curb
(Option C), and a busway routed through private property north of the street
(Option D). Mr. Speck indicated that Speck Dempsey team's preference among
these is Option B, which places the stop closer to High Street with minimal
sacrifice in functionality, and that the technology exists to allow a single shared
bidirectional lane through this short segment.
Dr. Lam asked Mr. Speck to explain the reasoning behind eliminating one
westbound lane in Segment C, particularly given that the rightmost lane serves
Post Road traffic and the elimination could cause significant stacking. Mr. Speck
acknowledged that the proposal in the drawing reflects wishful thinking rather
than a fully studied conclusion and committed to proper traffic modeling to
justify or revise it before the final report.
Mr. Keeler shared concerns about the removal of the western curb cut at the
gas station near Shawan Falls, noting his own experience using that entrance.
He also questioned the rationale for committing to dedicated BRT lanes when
ridership and timing remain uncertain and stated a preference for the
bidirectional single-lane option over two dedicated lanes. He expressed support
for wider sidewalks and on-street parking as pedestrian-safety measures, and
raised caution about narrowing through lanes on Bridge Street while the John
Shields Parkway bridge is not yet complete to provide an east-west alternative.
Ms. Alutto supported planning for BRT potential without committing to
immediate construction of dedicated lanes. She concurred with the desire for
additional traffic study on the Segment C lane reduction, particularly regarding
westbound stacking. She expressed comfort with the single shared bidirectional
lane in Segment B given its short length and the anticipated technological
capability.
Ms. Johnson expressed support for BRT and for Option B in Segment B, noting it
would likely also provide the safest pedestrian crossing geometry, particularly
given school pickup and drop-off traffic near the corridor. She encouraged
planning for BRT as a catalyst for it to come to fruition.
Ms. Kramb noted support for the overall direction and asked for clarification on
the parking depicted near High Street, confirming that the proposed parking is
on the east side of High Street rather than the west.
Vice Mayor De Rosa expressed support for Option B as logical given that the bus
will already be merging through the bridge and the short-dedicated segment
would feel natural. She offered a broader observation that the transformation of
the corridor from a highway-feeling road to a more inviting community
environment would likely shift resident attitudes about travel time, and
expressed support for the pink multiuse path addition, noting she is an avid
cyclist through the corridor.
Mayor Amorose Groomes offered several additional observations: a preference
for exploring the elimination of one of the two left-turn lanes at the Frantz Road
and Post Road interchange rather than a through lane as a potential way to
achieve lane reduction while preserving capacity; support for medians wherever
they can be introduced; a hope that BRT serves as a precursor to light rail and
that the busway option be kept in contemplation as redevelopment along the
corridor proceeds; and a concern about starting on-street parking too close to
the High Street intersection given conflict with vehicles turning left from the
intersection, noting that the presence of a curb cut for the nearby pizza business
already creates pedestrian and driver conflicts.
Mr. Speck confirmed that Council had provided sufficient direction for the team
to proceed toward the final report and indicated that traffic engineering
consultant EMH&T would perform additional modeling on the western lane
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Council iering
GOVERNMENT FORMS & SUPPLIES 844-224-3338 FORM NO, 10148
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question. The team is expected to return in November 2026 with a final
recommendation.
e ID-2 and ID-3 District Code Amendment Approach
Mr. Hounshell presented a proposed approach for near-term and longer-term
refinements to the ID-2 and ID-3 zoning districts within the WID, following the
adoption of Ordinance 06-25 on July 1st and Council's direction to outline a
strategy for future refinements.
Mr. Hounshell noted that approximately 78 percent of land within the WID is
currently zoned or designated for future zoning as ID-2 (Flex Innovation) or ID-
3 (Industrial), making any changes to these districts consequential in scope.
Near-term refinements would address three areas: identifying currently
permitted uses that do not align with the districts’ intended character (such as
district energy plants and day care facilities); creating targeted performance
standards for uses that do align with the district intent (such as manufacturing,
assembly, and research and development) when those uses are adjacent to
sensitive land uses; and completing a comprehensive setback and screening
design manual for the entire 2,200-acre WID, consistent with the approach
taken for ID-6 along the road adjacent to Ballantrae. Longer-term refinements
would be incorporated into the broader zoning code and subdivision regulations
update.
Next steps would include following the standard code amendment process
through the Planning and Zoning Commission and then City Council, engaging
current and future ID-2 and ID-3 property owners, meeting with Washington
Township to share the approach and gather feedback, and targeting completion
of near-term amendments by the end of 2026.
No public comment was received.
Ms. Kramb and Ms. Alutto both emphasized the importance of a broad and
proactive public communication effort, ensuring that all individuals and
stakeholders who have been engaged throughout the WID rezoning process
receive notice when items proceed to the Planning and Zoning Commission and
to Council, rather than relying on the standard radius-based notification. Ms.
Johnson suggested that the existing WID webpage be maintained as a central
information hub throughout this process.
Dr. Lam expressed strong support for the two-track approach and specifically
noted the importance of extending the setback and screening design manual to
include ID-2, which had been excluded from the portion previously completed
for ID-6.
Mayor Amorose Groomes expressed that the near-term use and standard
refinements are particularly important to the development community, which is
awaiting clarity on setbacks and screening in order to plan projects, and that
longer-term code integration will be valuable in resolving cross-references and
definitional dependencies that currently create ambiguity.
Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to direct staff to proceed with the Code
Amendment process as presented.
Ms. Alutto seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Ms. Johnson, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Mr.
Keeler, yes; Dr. Lam, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes,
yes.
e Acceptance of 2026 TIRC Reports — Franklin, Union and Delaware Counties
Minutes of
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Held August 10, 2026 Page 12 of 15
Mr. Rubino presented this routine item. The three Tax Incentive Review Councils
for Franklin, Union, and Delaware Counties met in June 2026 to review the City's
required incentive reporting, and all three councils accepted their respective
reports. County auditors prefer that City Council formally adopt by motion, the
minutes of all three TIRC meetings.
No public comment was received.
Mayor Amorose Groomes noted a question regarding certain agreements in the
report that had projected private investment of zero but reflected significant
actual investment, and indicated she would follow up with staff offline,
acknowledging the matter does not substantively affect the overall TIRC report.
Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to accept the TIRC Reports.
Ms. Alutto seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Ms. Alutto, yes; Ms. Johnson, yes; Dr. Lam, yes; Vice
Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Keeler,
yes.
Deer Run Sanitary Sewershed Infiltration/Inflow Mitigation Pilot Project
Inspections
Mr. Hendershot presented an informational overview of the upcoming Deer Run
Sanitary Sewershed Infiltration/Inflow (1/1) Mitigation Pilot Project inspections.
The project is designed to identify sources of stormwater and groundwater I/I
entering the sanitary sewer collection system and to evaluate potential
mitigation measures to reduce sanitary sewer overflows and water-in-basement
events.
The project areas are within portions of Muirfield Village Phases 5, 33, and 36,
selected through comprehensive flow monitoring that has been ongoing since
2012, identifying locations where the system captures excessive I/T during
rainfall events.
Inspection methods to be conducted August 24-28, 2026 (with wet weather
closed-circuit television potentially extending into September) include: nontoxic
simulated smoke testing, which involves pressurizing the sanitary system
through manholes to identify defects or improper connections; nontoxic
fluorescent dye testing, in which dye is placed in the public storm sewer to
determine whether cross-connections to the sanitary system exist; wet weather
closed-circuit television inspection of public mains and private service laterals;
and visual inspection of sump pump configurations to determine whether
discharge piping is connected to the sanitary sewer.
Mr. Hendershot provided historical context, noting that smoke testing performed
in 2018 in a different area of the Deer Run sewershed identified a defective
sanitary cleanout and smoke exiting a public storm sewer catch basin.
Subsequent dye testing in 2019 at five locations found dye entering the sanitary
system at four of those locations, indicating cross-connection from the storm
sewer. Analysis of those findings pointed to private sanitary service laterals as
the likely primary source of I/I, rather than the storm sewer itself. Lining the
storm sewer would not address groundwater entering through deteriorated
service laterals. The current pilot project will test three mitigation strategies
across three project areas — grouting service connections at the mainline, lining
service laterals from the mainline to the right-of-way, and lining from the
mainline all the way to the house — to assess the relative effectiveness and
cost-efficiency of each approach. Three adjacent control areas with flow
monitoring are included for comparative analysis.
Residents in the project areas will receive mailed notice at least one week in
advance, a door hanger 48 hours before testing, social media announcements,
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and a frequently asked questions flyer. Fire, emergency response, and police
services have been notified, as has Washington Township Fire Department Chief
Donahue.
The total pilot project budget is approximately $850,000, of which approximately
$150,000 is allocated for the study and inspection phase, with the remainder
directed toward construction of mitigation measures. A bid acceptance for the
mitigation construction work is anticipated at the November 16, 2026 Council
meeting.
No public comment was received.
Dr. Lam commended the scientific rigor and methodology of the pilot project
design, including the use of control areas and matched demographic and age
variables across project areas. He asked why it had taken eight years since the
2018 smoke testing to return to this work; Mr. Hendershot explained that the
interval was not a gap in attention but rather the result of modeling and analysis
conducted from 2012 onward to identify and prioritize areas with the highest I/I
capture rates, and that the current pilot is designed to evaluate mitigation
effectiveness before scaling to broader city-wide action. Dr. Lam also raised a
question about cost-sharing with homeowners if the mitigation requires work on
private service laterals; Mr. Hendershot noted that current city code places
responsibility for private service laterals on the property owner, and that this
question, along with broader policy implications, would be addressed in an
upcoming work session.
Ms. Kramb recommended that signage be posted in the project areas prior to
testing to prevent resident confusion about the appearance of smoke near
homes. Mr. Hendershot confirmed that signage was already planned for all three
locations despite not appearing explicitly in the communications plan.
Mayor Amorose Groomes underscored the financial rationale for the project,
noting that excessive I/I entering the system results in treatment costs being
borne by the City, and that addressing the root cause through service lateral
repair may reduce or eliminate the need for large-scale relief sewer
construction, which could otherwise represent tens of millions of dollars in
capital expense.
Ms. O'Callaghan advised Council that a work session scheduled in approximately
one month will present a comprehensive discussion of the City's public utility
system, including policy decisions, prioritization of funding, and awareness of
the scale and significance of infrastructure maintenance needs citywide.
STAFF COMMENTS
Ms. O'Callaghan expressed appreciation to all City staff, volunteers, sponsors, and partners
for their contributions to the Dublin Irish Festival. She noted that the festival requires
substantial planning and staffing effort, and that restoration of Coffman Park is ongoing.
She highlighted the decision made during Saturday evening of the festival to close early
due to severe weather, crediting close coordination among the meteorologist,
communications team, and police for allowing patrons to reach their vehicles safely before
the severe weather arrived. Preliminary figures indicate that despite the weather impact on
attendance and revenue, the 2026 festival is on track to generate the third-highest gross
revenue in its history.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS
e Administrative Committee Report
Vice Mayor Cathy De Rosa reported that the Administrative Committee met on
August 4, 2026, and addressed three topics. The first was a review of the
upcoming September 1, 2026 joint work session, which will include brief reports
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from boards and commissions, an update from the Mayor on Council goals, and a
primary discussion of mixed-use code definitions and standards with Mr. Dale of
MDC in attendance. The second topic was a retrospective on the board and
commission recruiting cycle, including suggestions for process improvement going
forward. The third topic was the initiation of planning for the Council retreat
scheduled for November.
COUNCIL ROUNDTABLE
Ms. Kramb reported on the following:
e her participation at the Chamber of Commerce I Care, I Serve, I Lead middle
school graduation on July 31st;
e participation in the Irish Festival;
e attendance at the National Night Out event on August 4th following the
Administrative Committee meeting;
e participation in the Dublin Historical Society's inaugural recorded oral history
session on August 4th, in which a panel of former City leaders discussed the
formation of Dublin from 1970 to 1990;
e ameeting with Congressman Mike Carey on August 7th to thank him for his
support of the Emerald Connector;
e attendance at the President George W. Bush Portraits of Courage opening at the
National Veterans Memorial and Museum on August 8th; and
e attendance at the Dublin Scioto High School addition ribbon-cutting on August
10th.
Ms. Johnson congratulated the staff on the Irish Festival, noting particular appreciation for
the police presence and the overall improvement in event operations since her family's
prior attendance. She commented on the festival's growth and the accolades received
from surrounding communities.
Ms. Alutto echoed praise for the Irish Festival, noting that vendors consistently describe it
as the best festival they attend throughout the year. She issued an annual reminder that
the school year was beginning the following week and urged drivers throughout Dublin to
slow down and watch for children, including new drivers.
Dr. Lam noted that the preceding meeting before the summer recess was prior to the
Fourth of July celebration, and offered belated thanks to staff for both the Independence
Day celebration and the Muirfield tournament, commending the city staff for managing
multiple major events in succession.
Mr. Keeler also praised staff for the Independence Day and Irish Festival events and
offered specific recognition to Nik Quaife, Head of Cultural Affairs at the Consulate General
of Ireland, who visited during the festival and made a strong impression by championing
public art in the community.
Vice Mayor De Rosa expressed sincere gratitude to all City staff.
Mayor Amorose Groomes reported on the following:
e July 8 — she attended a Police Scholarship Fund meeting;
e July 9% — she attended the Government Affairs Committee meeting at the
Chamber of Commerce;
e July 13% — she and Council Member Keeler attended a Washington Township
strategic planning session;
e July 16% — she attended the Ohio Mayors Alliance meeting focused on the state of
cities in Ohio;
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e July 20% - she administered the Oath of Office for the new Chamber of Commerce
board;
e July 22" — she attended the Irish Festival honorary chair reception;
e July 23" — she attended Brian Ashford's retirement celebration;
e July 27% — she and City staff hosted a visit from the City of Findlay;
e July 30% — she provided a welcome address to the National Association of Pediatric
Nurse Practitioners;
e August 4" — she participated in the Dublin Historical Society oral history session;
e August 7 — she thanked Congressman Carey for his visit to communicate his
support for the Emerald Connector project; and
e August 8" — she attended the Portraits of Courage exhibition. She noted that the
exhibition was personally meaningful in the lead-up to the September 11th
anniversary, and suggested that the National Veterans Memorial and Museum
might serve as an appropriate venue for a portion of the Council retreat, given
that Dublin resident Stephen White is associated with that venue.
e Finally, Mayor Amorose Groomes offered birthday congratulations to Council
Members Amy Kramb and Andy Keeler, whose birthdays occurred during the
summer recess.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:36 p.m.
[LG P>- Mayor — Presiding Officer
Clerk’ of Coypcil