The Docket · Government Meeting · DKT-2026-000868

On the agenda: Middletown meeting — Flock camera (Sep 15)

Name: On the agenda: Middletown meeting — Flock camera (Sep 15)
Start: 2026-09-15
End: 2026-09-15
Location: Middletown, Ohio

⚠ Agenda Watch Middletown, Ohio · Tuesday, September 15, 2026 — in 3 days

About this record

The published agenda for this September 15 meeting contains: "Flock camera", "license plate reader", "Flock Safety". This is the public record BEFORE the vote — read the document, then show up. Public comment is where cancellations start.

WhenTuesday, September 15, 2026
Check the agenda document for the meeting time.

WhereMiddletown, Ohio

Money$121.50 on the table

On the record“Flock camera”“license plate reader”“Flock Safety”

The agenda, word for word

Government public record — the full text of the published document, archived September 12, 2026. Gold highlighting of key terms is ours, not the original’s. Read the original document ↗

57 pages · scroll to read

Page 1 of 57

1. September 15, 2026 Agenda
Documents:
20260915 AGENDA .PDF
1.I. September 15, 2026 Workbook
Documents:
09-15-2026 WORKBOOK.PDF

Page 2 of 57

MIDDLETOWN CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Tuesday, September 15, 2026
CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING – 5:30 PM – COUNCIL CHAMBERS – LOWER LEVEL
MOMENT OF MEDITATION/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG/ ROLL CALL
CITIZEN COMMENTS
COUNCIL COMMENTS
CITY MANAGER REPORTS
State Representative Thomas Hall
CONSENT AGENDA. . . Matters listed under the Consent Agenda are considered to be routine and will be
enacted by one motion and one vote of consent. There will be no separate discussion of these items. If
discussion is desired, that item will be removed and considered separately.
a) Approve the City Council Minutes of September 1, 2026.
b) Receive and file the following board and commission minutes:
Board of Zoning Appeals- June 3 and August 5, 2026
Airport Commission- June 15 & July 20, 2026
Board of Health- August 11, 2026
c) Confirm the conditional appointment of Gabriel Ross to the position of Firefighter-EMT in the
Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire.
d) Confirm the conditional appointment of Kenneth Stewart Jr. to the position of Assistant City
Engineer in the Department of Public Works & Utilities, Division of Engineering.
e) Confirm the conditional appointment of Jacob Schulte to the position of Community and Economic
Development Director.
f) Receive and file Oaths of Office for Magdalene Haddix and Martin Russell.
g) Accept the resignation of Tim Combs from the Board of Health.
MOTION AGENDA
a) To approve the purchase of highway rock salt from Champion Landscape Supply of Dayton, OH, in the
amount of $121.50/ton for the approximate usage of 3,500 tons over the 2026-2027 winter season.
b) To approve the purchase of four (4) police and fire dispatch radio consoles, including maintenance
and related services, from Motorola Solutions, for a total purchase price of $524,536.
c) Reappoint Bill Becker and Joe Newlin as Citizen Members of Board of Trustees of the Renaissance
New Community Authority (NCA) for an additional term effective October 3, 2026, through October 2,
2028, with their future reappointments occurring automatically.
LEGISLATION
1. Resolution No. R2026-22, a resolution to make adjustments to appropriations for current expenses
and other expenditures of the City of Middletown, Counties of Butler and Warren, State of Ohio, for
the period ending December 31, 2026. (Court Computerization Fund) (Second Reading)
2.

Ordinance No. O2026-55, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing a contract with
Polydyne, Inc. for the purchase of polymer for use at the Water Reclamation Facility for the year 2027.
(First Reading)

Page 3 of 57

MIDDLETOWN CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Tuesday, September 15, 2026
3.

Ordinance No. O2026-56, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing purchases of
asphalt by the city purchasing agent in 2027. (First Reading)

Ordinance No. O2026-57, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing an amendment
of the contract with Tri-Health Corporate Health now known as Bethesda Healthcare, Inc. for jail
health care services. (First Reading)

Ordinance No. O2026-58, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing extension of
contracts for nuisance abatement for 2027. (First Reading)

Resolution No. R2026-23, a resolution to make adjustments to appropriations for current expenses
and other expenditures of the City of Middletown, Counties of Butler and Warren, State of Ohio, for
the period ending December 31, 2026. (General Fund – Fire Grant) (First Reading)

Resolution No. R2026-24, a resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with
the Ohio Department of Transportation for improvements to a portion of State Route 122 from
Jackson Lane to the Grand Avenue / Roosevelt Boulevard split and declaring an emergency. (No
action requested until October 6, 2026.)

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Under the authority of O.R.C. 121.22 (G) (8) To consider confidential information related to the marketing
plans, specific business strategy, production techniques, trade secrets, or personal financial
statements of an applicant for economic development assistance, or to negotiations with other
political subdivisions respecting requests for economic development assistance, provided that both
of the following conditions apply:
(1) The information is directly related to a request for economic development assistance that is to be
provided or administered under any provision of Chapter 715., 725., 1724., or 1728. or sections
701.07, 3735.67 to 3735.70, 5709.40 to 5709.43, 5709.61 to 5709.69, 5709.73 to 5709.75, or
5709.77 to 5709.81 of the Revised Code, or that involves public infrastructure improvements or the
extension of utility services that are directly related to an economic development project.
(2) A unanimous quorum of the public body determines, by a roll call vote, that the executive session is
necessary to protect the interests of the applicant or the possible investment or expenditure of public
funds to be made in connection with the economic development project.

Page 4 of 57

Page 5 of 57

MIDDLETOWN CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Tuesday, September 15, 2026
3.

Ordinance No. O2026-56, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing purchases of
asphalt by the city purchasing agent in 2027. (First Reading)

Ordinance No. O2026-58, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing extension of
contracts for nuisance abatement for 2027. (First Reading)

Page 6 of 57

CITIZEN
COMMENTS

Page 7 of 57

COUNCIL
COMMENTS

Page 8 of 57

CITY MANAGER
REPORTS

Page 9 of 57

CONSENT
AGENDA

Page 10 of 57

MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

September 1, 2026

At 5:30 p.m., Mayor Slamka called the regular City Council meeting to order in the
community room of the Robert Sonny Hill Jr. Community Center located at 800
Lafayette Avenue, Middletown, Ohio 45044.
ROLL CALL

City Council Members present: J. Carter, S. West, J. Mulligan, E. Slamka, P. Lolli.

AMEND AGENDA

Ms. Slamka moved to amend the agenda to remove item number 9, Resolution No.
R2026 –21. Mrs. Carter seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms.
Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter.

CITIZEN COMMENTS
Kimberly Silas

Kimberly Silas, 1847 Spring Grove Lane, Middletown, Ohio, spoke as the founder of the
Willie Emma Silas Breast Cancer Awareness Ministry. She explained that, although the
ministry is not a nonprofit organization and is primarily a one-woman ministry, its
mission is rooted in community service, breast cancer awareness, compassion, unity,
and bringing members of the community together. Ms. Silas invited City Council to
participate in an important community initiative and shared the personal significance
of the ministry, and its annual breast cancer walk. She explained that she was five years
old when her mother, Willie Emma Silas, passed away in 1966. Throughout her life, she
has carried her mother's name and learned about her mother's love for the Middletown
community. Ms. Silas stated that the annual walk serves as a way to honor her mother's
legacy in the community where she lived and loved, with the goal of continuing to
represent love, compassion, awareness, unity, and service to others. Ms. Silas stated
that the first Willie Emma Silas Peace, Prayers, and Positivity Breast Cancer Walk was
held in Middletown on October 27, 2022. Participants began at Old South Park on Main
Street and walked to United Missionary Baptist Church, where they gathered for prayer,
fellowship, and unity. Ms. Silas announced that the next Peace, Prayers, and Positivity
Breast Cancer Walk will be held on October 24, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. The planned route
will begin at Old South Park and conclude at the CBI Robert “Sonny” Hill Community
Center. She respectfully invited members of the City Council to participate in the walk.
Ms. Silas stated that the presence of City Council members would demonstrate support
for breast cancer survivors and their families, breast cancer awareness, community
unity and togetherness, peace, prayer, and positivity, while supporting the broader
needs and causes that impact Middletown residents. She emphasized that having
community leaders participate together would send a powerful message that
Middletown stands together. Ms. Silas stated that the ministry's motto is “We Support
All Ribbons.” She explained that the motto represents more than breast cancer
awareness and symbolizes acknowledgment and support for the many causes,
struggles, families, and individuals within the community who need awareness,
compassion, encouragement, and support.

Constance Miller

Constance Miller, 4002 Riverview Avenue, Middletown, Ohio spoke about the
installation and use of Flock cameras and other forms of surveillance throughout the
city. Ms. Miller began by expressing her appreciation to the Middletown Police
Department. She shared that, in May or June, her autistic son eloped, and she credited
the police with responding quickly and assisting with the situation. She stated that she
was grateful for their response and support. Ms. Miller then raised concerns regarding
the effectiveness, scope, and use of Flock cameras. She questioned how the cameras
would assist in a situation involving an individual on foot, noting that the cameras are
primarily license plate readers. She also expressed concerns regarding the cameras'
artificial intelligence capabilities and whether they collect information beyond license
plate data, including information related to vehicle characteristics, driver behavior, and
travel patterns. Ms. Miller stated that residents who fund the cameras through their tax
dollars should have access to information regarding the city's contract with Flock Safety.
She questioned how long collected data is retained, who has access to the information,
and whether access is limited to law enforcement personnel or extends to other city
employees or individual police officers. Ms. Miller referenced reports of law
enforcement officers misusing surveillance information to monitor former partners or
romantic interests. She stated that, as a person who values constitutional protections
and privacy, she has concerns regarding the application of the Fourth Amendment to
Flock cameras. She referenced the Supreme Court case United States v. Jones and
expressed concern that the widespread placement of license plate readers throughout
the city could effectively allow residents' movements to be tracked as they enter and
leave Middletown. Ms. Miller also addressed the argument that individuals who are not
doing anything wrong should have nothing to fear from surveillance. She stated that
she is an activist and operates “No Elegy Needed” in Middletown and expressed
concern that individuals may be labeled negatively by government authorities based on
their activism or beliefs. She emphasized that, although she believes the Middletown

Page 11 of 57

MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

September 1, 2026

Police Department has been supportive of her organization's rallies, she remains
concerned about who else may have access to surveillance data. Ms. Miller further
raised concerns regarding Flock Safety's access to and retention of data under its
general contract terms and stated that residents cannot determine whether
Middletown's specific contract contains provisions allowing such access without
reviewing the city's contract. Finally, Ms. Miller questioned the availability of a
transparency portal that would allow residents to review audit logs and determine
whether surveillance systems are being accessed or used improperly. She requested
that public records requests related to the Flock camera system be properly followed
so that residents can review the information and better understand how the system is
being used. Ms. Miller thanked the Council for the opportunity to speak.
COUNCIL COMMENTS
Mr. Lolli

Mr. Lolli wished everyone a happy and safe Labor Day weekend and expressed
appreciation to workers throughout the country for their contributions. He congratulated
Cleveland-Cliffs on moving forward with its project at Middletown Works. He stated that
the project would be significant for Cleveland-Cliffs, its employees, and the City of
Middletown. He noted that the investment would help ensure that Middletown Works
remains in the community for decades and emphasized its importance as the city's
largest employer and a significant source of the city's tax base. He further stated that
the approximately $1 billion investment and associated construction activity would
enhance the city's income tax revenue for several years. Mr. Lolli expressed
appreciation to the U.S. Department of Energy and Vice President JD Vance for visiting
Middletown and speaking at Middletown Works the previous Friday. He described the
developments as positive for the City of Middletown. Mr. Lolli also congratulated Jackie
Phillips on her retirement. He stated that he had worked with Ms. Phillips for nearly 30
years and considered her a friend. He expressed appreciation for her more than 30
years of service and stated that the city was in a better place because of her
contributions. He wished her well in retirement. Mr. Lolli then addressed concerns
regarding Flock cameras and stated that he had reviewed information about the system
over the previous several weeks. He stated that, while he was not prepared to
discontinue the use of Flock cameras, he believed the issue of protecting civil liberties
should be examined at the city, county, state, and federal levels. Mr. Lolli stated that,
based on information he believed had been provided by Chief Nelson in an email, the
Middletown Police Department retains Flock camera information for approximately 30
days. He noted that the system could be a valuable public-safety tool in situations such
as an abduction or when assisting law enforcement in apprehending criminals. He
stated that, if the technology is used properly and helps locate a missing person or
apprehend a criminal, he supports continuing its use. At the same time, Mr. Lolli
acknowledged concerns regarding potential impacts on civil liberties, including the
collection and retention of data. He stated that the city should seek a balance between
the public-safety benefits of technology and protecting individual privacy and civil
liberties. Mr. Lolli expressed concern about the possibility of living in a surveillance
society while noting that individuals already encounter extensive data collection through
computers, social media, cell phones, financial institutions, and retail businesses. He
referenced targeted communications and location-based information associated with
visits to businesses such as Kroger, Target, and Meijer. Mr. Lolli stated that he agreed
with some of the concerns raised by Ms. Miller and emphasized the need to find a
reasonable balance, stating that Flock cameras can be a useful tool when used
properly.

Mrs. Carter

Mrs. Carter commented on the discussion regarding Flock cameras. She stated that she
agreed with Ms. Miller's concerns and expressed the view that people can misuse
technologies and other resources when they involve information about others. Mrs.
Carter stated that she was uncertain about how the matter would develop in Middletown
or how much further investigation would be conducted. She emphasized that there are
technologies and resources the community needs, while acknowledging that there are
others that may not be necessary.

Mr. West

Mr. West commented on the discussion regarding Flock cameras. He stated that the
issue had received significant attention in recent months and that, when used properly,
Flock cameras can be a valuable public-safety asset. However, he noted that Flock
operates as a larger organization beyond local jurisdictions and stated that it would be
worthwhile to have a conversation regarding the company's corporate practices and use
of collected information. Mr. West compared concerns about Flock cameras with
concerns that arose when smartphone applications, including Waze, were first
introduced. He noted that such applications can collect driving-related information,
including speed and routine travel patterns, as can other technology platforms such as
Google. He stated that a key distinction is that individuals choose whether to use those

Page 12 of 57

MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

September 1, 2026

applications, whereas Flock cameras are present throughout the community regardless
of whether individuals choose to interact with them. Mr. West acknowledged that Flock
cameras have been instrumental in solving crimes locally, including assisting law
enforcement in determining when stolen vehicles enter or leave the city. He
characterized the technology as a “double-edged sword” and stated that he was not yet
sufficiently informed to offer a definitive opinion regarding its continued use. However,
he recognized its value to Chief Nelson and the Middletown Police Department in
various investigations. Mr. West noted that Middletown's location along Interstate 75
and between two major cities results in significant traffic moving through the community
and can contribute to local crime concerns. Mr. West also congratulated Cleveland-Cliffs
on moving forward with its project at Middletown Works. He stated that the project had
been in development for a considerable period of time and expressed satisfaction that
it was moving forward. He noted that the city had been concerned about the long-term
future of Middletown Works and the need for upgrades due to the limited operating life
of the existing blast furnace. Mr. West stated that the project would help solidify
Cleveland-Cliffs' presence in Middletown for generations and described the investment
as beneficial to both the company and the city. Mr. West concluded by wishing everyone
a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend and expressed hope for favorable weather.
Mr. Mulligan

Mr. Mulligan commented on the Cleveland-Cliffs celebration, stating that it was a
pleasure to join elected officials at the federal, state, and local levels, as well as the
CEO of Cleveland-Cliffs, for the announcement regarding the company's investment in
Middletown Works. He stated that the $1 billion investment represents more than a
financial commitment and will support the continued operation of Middletown Works
for decades. He noted that the construction associated with the project could create
approximately 1,500 temporary jobs while helping preserve more than 2,000
permanent jobs at the facility. Mr. Mulligan described the announcement as a
significant day for Middletown and expressed hope that Cleveland-Cliffs would continue
to serve as an economic driver for the community. Mr. Mulligan congratulated the
organizers of Hops in the Hangar for another successful event at Middletown Regional
Airport. He recognized Jamie Murphy, Mika Glazer Jones, and the event committee for
their efforts. He noted the strong attendance, the family-friendly area, and the airplane
show, which he described as a successful part of the event. Mr. Mulligan also noted
that proceeds from the event benefit nonprofit organizations in Middletown and
thanked the organizers for their efforts. Mr. Mulligan addressed recent public
comments regarding the separation of the city and a particular employee. He stated
that he was not in a position to comment on individual personnel decisions and that it
was not his place to do so. He noted, however, that the city has many employees with
significant years of service. He referenced the city's employee newsletter and
recognized Pat Ballas in the Clerk of Courts Office and Andy Warick in the Police
Department for reaching 25 years of service. He also recognized Jackie Phillips for 28
years of service with the city. Mr. Mulligan stated that, as an organization with
approximately 400 to 500 employees, some employee turnover is expected and
emphasized that the city has many accomplishments and long-serving employees to
celebrate. Mr. Mulligan welcomed Martin Russell as the new Assistant City Manager.
He stated that Mr. Russell brings decades of government leadership experience and
expressed that his experience and professionalism would strengthen the city's
leadership team. Finally, Mr. Mulligan expressed condolences to the family of Dr. Ray
Kiefhaber, who recently passed away. He recognized Dr. Kiefhaber's contributions to
the medical community and his generous support of charitable organizations
throughout Middletown. Mr. Mulligan extended his condolences to Dr. Kiefhaber's
widow, JeanAnne Kiefhaber, and his family, stating that Dr. Kiefhaber would be greatly
missed by the Middletown community.

Ms. Slamka

Ms. Slamka echoed congratulations to Cleveland-Cliffs on its planned investment in
Middletown Works. She expressed enthusiasm for the co-generation plant and stated
that she appreciated the company's efforts to reduce energy consumption and utilize
energy within its own facility. Ms. Slamka also commented on the Flock camera system,
noting that the city has been evaluating the technology and that additional discussion
is expected in the coming weeks and months. Ms. Slamka then provided information
regarding upcoming community events and activities in Middletown. She announced
that General Trivia Night would be held every Thursday during the month from 6:30 p.m.
to 8:30 p.m. at New Ales Brewing Company, 1330 Manchester Avenue. Additional
information is available through the Downtown Middletown event calendar. Ms. Slamka
announced the First Friday celebration on September 4, including the third annual
Roper Romp throughout downtown. Participants were invited to dress as Mrs. Roper
from Three's Company or participate in regular attire and visit participating businesses
in the downtown entertainment district. She noted that a family-friendly children's zone

Page 13 of 57

MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

September 1, 2026

would be available. She announced the opening of the “Steel in a Different Light” exhibit
at the Middletown Arts Center on September 4 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The exhibit
features a collaboration between steel artist Mike Elsas and local Cleveland-Cliffs
employees and highlights the relationship between fine art and Middletown's steel
heritage. The exhibit is scheduled to run through October 15 and explores the history
and impact of steel in Middletown, including Cleveland-Cliffs' long history in the
community. Ms. Slamka announced an acoustic performance at the Sorg Opera House
on September 4 at 8 p.m. featuring Cincinnati Reds team Hall of Famer and musician
Bronson Arroyo. On September 11, the Sorg Opera House and Middletown Lyric Theatre
will present “110 Stories,” a free 25th-anniversary September 11 memorial
performance. Reservations were required. The production features the testimonies of
first responders, survivors, volunteers, and New York residents who experienced the
events of September 11, 2001. Ms. Slamka noted that members of the Middletown
community, including Vice Mayor Jennifer Carter, would participate in the ensemble
cast. Ms. Slamka announced the city's 25th Anniversary September 11 Memorial 5K
on September 12. The ceremony will begin at 8:46 a.m. at Firehouse 83, 1830 Yankee
Road, with the race beginning at 9:28 a.m. She directed residents to the City of
Middletown's website for information regarding parking and registration. She also
announced the third annual Five-Star Comic-Con, scheduled for September 12 from
10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Miami University's Middletown campus, 4200 North
University Boulevard. She described the event as a celebration of comics, pop culture,
anime, gaming, cosplay, and related interests. Ms. Slamka announced that
Middletown's Open-Air Market, MOAM, would hold its second Sunday event, “Harvest
and Heritage,” on September 13 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The event would be held
at 916 First Avenue, across from Gravel Road Brewing Company, and would feature
heirloom vegetables, heritage crafts, historical organizations, a seed swap, and
traditional games. Ms. Slamka encouraged residents to save the date for the 10th
Annual Dog Day Downtown, scheduled for September 18 from approximately 5-8 p.m.
She described the event as a celebration for dogs and their owners. Ms. Slamka
reminded residents that the City of Middletown accepts applications for city boards and
commissions throughout the year. She encouraged residents interested in serving their
community to submit an application through the city's website. Ms. Slamka encouraged
residents to find meaningful ways to become involved and give back to the community.
She suggested serving on a board, joining a local organization, running for office,
applying for employment with the city, volunteering at the hospital, picking up litter,
planting a garden, helping a neighbor, or simply maintaining a positive and giving
attitude. She emphasized the importance of regular community involvement and stated
that residents are connected and share responsibility for the care of their city.
CITY MANAGER
REPORTS

City Manager Ashley Combs congratulated Jackie Phillips Carter on 28 years of service
with the City of Middletown; she will be greatly missed, and we wish her well in her
retirement. City Manager Combs welcomed newly appointed Assistant City Manager
Martin Russell.
Mr. Russell thanked the Council for the opportunity to serve as Assistant City Manager.
He stated that, although he had only been with the city for two days, he had already
learned a great deal and had met an exceptional team. He expressed his appreciation
for the opportunity and stated that he looked forward to working with City Council and
others to accomplish many goals for the community in the near future.

CONSENT AGENDA

Approve the City Council Minutes of August 18, 2026
Receive and file the following board and commission minutes:
Board of Zoning Appeals- July 2, August 6, October 1, November 5 and December 3,
2025 and January 7, February 4, April 1 and July 1, 2026
Planning Commission- April 23, May 13, June 10 and July 8, 2026
Civil Service Commission- May 7, June 9, July 16 and August 12, 2026
Receive and file an Oath of Office for Brianna Steele
Mr. West moved to approve the issues and actions listed on the Consent Agenda. Mr.
Mulligan seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs.
Carter, Mr. West.

Page 14 of 57

MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

MOTION AGENDA
Purchase one 2027
Ford F-550 Altec
Bucket Truck, Model
AT37G, from Altec
Industries, Inc., in the
amount of $182,482
for the Electronics
Division

September 1, 2026

To request approval to purchase one 2027 Ford F-550 Altec Bucket Truck, Model AT37G,
from Altec Industries, Inc., of Indianapolis, Indiana, in the amount of $182,482 for the
Electronics Division.
Mr. West moved to request approval to purchase one 2027 Ford F-550 Altec Bucket Truck,
Model AT37G, from Altec Industries, Inc., of Indianapolis, Indiana, in the amount of
$182,482 for the Electronics Division. Mr. Mulligan seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Ms.
Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan.

Grant a Permanent
Easement to Duke
Energy on City Owned
Parcel #
C1620020000008
Located on South
Main Street

To authorize the City Manager to grant a permanent easement to Duke Energy on City
owned parcel # C1620020000008 located on South Main Street.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

At 6:04 p.m., Mr. Lolli moved to adjourn to executive session under the authority of O.R.C.
121.22 (G) (8) To consider confidential information related to the marketing plans, specific
business strategy, production techniques, trade secrets, or personal financial statements
of an applicant for economic development assistance, or to negotiations with other political
subdivisions respecting requests for economic development assistance, provided that both
of the following conditions apply:
(1) The information is directly related to a request for economic development assistance
that is to be provided or administered under any provision of Chapter 715., 725.,
1724., or 1728. or sections 701.07, 3735.67 to 3735.70, 5709.40 to 5709.43,
5709.61 to 5709.69, 5709.73 to 5709.75, or 5709.77 to 5709.81 of the Revised
Code, or that involves public infrastructure improvements or the extension of utility
services that are directly related to an economic development project.
(2) A unanimous quorum of the public body determines, by a roll call vote, that the executive
session is necessary to protect the interests of the applicant or the possible investment
or expenditure of public funds to be made in connection with the economic
development project. Mrs. Carter seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mrs. Carter, Mr.
West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli.

RETURN

At 7:05 p.m., Mr. West moved to return to open session. Mrs. Carter seconded. Motion
carried. Ayes: Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter.

LEGISLATION
Ord. No. O2026-47
ODNR - Foundation
Park Capital Funds

Mr. West moved to authorize the City Manager to grant a permanent easement to Duke
Energy on City owned parcel # C1620020000008 located on South Main Street. Mr. Lolli
seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka.

Ordinance No. O2026-47, an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to enter into an
agreement with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for capital improvements at the
Middletown Community Foundation Park project, was read for the second time.
Mr. Lolli moved to approve Ordinance No. O2026-47, an ordinance authorizing the City
Manager to enter into an agreement with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for
capital improvements at the Middletown Community Foundation Park project. Mr. West
seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.

Ord. No. O2026-48
ODNR - Miami Park
Capital Funds

Ordinance No. O2026-48, an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to enter into an
agreement with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for capital improvements at
Miami Park, was read for the second time.
Mr. West moved to approve Ordinance No. O2026-48, an ordinance authorizing the City
Manager to enter into an agreement with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for
capital improvements at Miami Park. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka,
Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan.

Ord. No. O2026-49
Subordination and
Recognition
Agreement

Ordinance No. O2026-49, an ordinance authorizing the execution of a subordination and
recognition of final development agreement with Valley Central Bank in connection with the
final development agreement with Ohio Regional Constructors, LLC for the former
Roosevelt school site and declaring an emergency was read.
Mr. West moved to approve Ordinance No. O2026-49, an ordinance authorizing the
execution of a subordination and recognition of final development agreement with Valley
Central Bank in connection with the final development agreement with Ohio Regional
Constructors, LLC for the former Roosevelt school site and declaring an emergency. Mr.

Page 15 of 57

MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

September 1, 2026

Mulligan seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms.
Slamka.
Ord. No. O2026-50
Amending Towne
Mall TIF

Ordinance No. O2026-50, an ordinance amending Ordinance No. O2015-081 passed by
the City of Middletown on December 15, 2015; to remove certain parcels from the Towne
Mall TIF and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Lolli moved to approve Ordinance No. O2026-50, an ordinance amending Ordinance
No. O2015-081 passed by the City of Middletown on December 15, 2015; to remove
certain parcels from the Towne Mall TIF and declaring an emergency. Mr. West seconded.
Motion carried. Ayes: Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli.

Ord. No. O2026-51
East Interchange
Project TIF

Ordinance No. O2026-51, an ordinance to create a TIF area pursuant to Section
5709.40(b) of the Ohio Revised Code; declare improvements to certain parcels of real
property located in the TIF area to be a public purpose; exempt from real property taxation
100% of those improvements; require the owners of those parcels to make service
payments in lieu of taxes; establish a Municipal Public Improvement Tax Increment
Equivalent Fund for the deposit of the remainder of those service payments; specify the
public infrastructure improvements to be made within the TIF area that directly benefit
those parcels; and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Lolli moved to approve Ordinance No. O2026-51, an ordinance to create a TIF area
pursuant to Section 5709.40(b) of the Ohio Revised Code; declare improvements to certain
parcels of real property located in the TIF area to be a public purpose; exempt from real
property taxation 100% of those improvements; require the owners of those parcels to
make service payments in lieu of taxes; establish a Municipal Public Improvement Tax
Increment Equivalent Fund for the deposit of the remainder of those service payments;
specify the public infrastructure improvements to be made within the TIF area that directly
benefit those parcels; and declaring an emergency. Mr. Mulligan seconded. Motion carried.
Ayes: Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter.

Ord. No. O2026-52
Arena - 11th
Amendment and
Restatement

Ordinance No. O2026-52, an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to enter into an
amended and restated final development agreement with Woodard Development, LLC and
the Warren County Port Authority, and declaring an emergency was read.
Mr. Lolli moved to approve Ordinance No. O2026-52, an ordinance authorizing the City
Manager to enter into an amended and restated final development agreement with
Woodard Development, LLC and the Warren County Port Authority, and declaring an
emergency. Mr. West seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli,
Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.

Ord. No. O2026-53
Arena Credit Pledge

Ordinance No. O2026-53, an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to enter into a credit
support pledge agreement with the Warren County Port Authority, and declaring an
emergency was read.
Mr. Lolli moved to approve Ordinance No. O2026-53, an ordinance authorizing the City
Manager to enter into a credit support pledge agreement with the Warren County Port
Authority and declaring an emergency. Mrs. Carter seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Ms.
Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan.

Ord. No. O2026-54
Arena TIF Pledge
Cooperative
Agreement

Ordinance No. O2026-54, an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to enter into a
cooperative agreement with the Warren County Port Authority, et al., and declaring an
emergency was read.
Mr. Lolli moved to approve Ordinance No. O2026-54, an ordinance authorizing the City
Manager to enter into a cooperative agreement with the Warren County Port Authority, et
al., and declaring an emergency. Mr. West seconded. Mr. Mulligan expressed his
appreciation to staff, and all the parties involved in getting this across the finish line. I know
we're not seeing shovels in the ground yet, but there's been years of work put into this. And
although it's a first reading emergency, that's just to satisfy what we need to really get the
project going and get those shovels in the ground because this is really going to be a
spectacular amenity in Middletown and the region. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. Lolli, Mrs.
Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka.

Res. No. R2026-22
Amend Appropriations
(Court
Computerization Fund)

Resolution No. R2026-22, a resolution to make adjustments to appropriations for current
expenses and other expenditures of the City of Middletown, Counties of Butler and Warren,
State of Ohio, for the period ending December 31, 2026 was read for the first time. (Court
Computerization Fund)

Page 16 of 57

MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

September 1, 2026

EXECUTIVE SESSION

At 7:22 p.m., Mr. Lolli moved to adjourn to executive session under the authority of O.R.C.
121.22 (G) (1) To consider the appointment of a public official. Mr. Mulligan seconded.
Motion carried. Ayes: Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli.

RETURN

At 7:48 p.m., Mr. West moved to return to open session. Mrs. Carter seconded. Motion
carried. Ayes: Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter.

ADJOURN

At 7:48 p.m., the meeting was declared adjourned until the regular meeting on
September 15, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
______________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor
Attest: ___________________________

Page 17 of 57

HUMAN RESOURCES

September 2, 2026

TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM:

Megan Ellis, Human Resources Manager

SUBJECT:

APPOINTMENT – FIREFIGHTER-EMT

We are recommending the conditional appointment of GABRIEL ROSS to the position of
Firefighter-EMT in the Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire. Mr. Ross was selected
from the eligibility list as a result of Civil Service testing procedures. He will fill the vacancy
created by the resignation of Brett Kohl.
Mr. Ross will be assigned to Range FF-EMT, FO1, Step A, which provides a salary of
$60,417.59 annually. The appointment is conditional on the candidate passing the
required medical and background evaluation.
/cs
c:

Amy Schenck, Clerk of Council
Brian Wright, Fire Chief
Human Resources
Finance (Payroll)
File

Ccmtg9/15/26

Page 18 of 57

HUMAN RESOURCES DIVISION

September 10, 2026

TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM:

Megan Ellis, Human Resources Manager

SUBJECT:

APPOINTMENT – ASSISTANT CITY ENGINEER

We are recommending the conditional appointment of KENNETH STEWART JR to the position
of Assistant City Engineer in the Department of Public Works & Utilities, Division of
Engineering. He will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Gabriel Bitar.
Mr. Stewart will be assigned to Salary Range 172, Step I, which provides a salary of $5,071.08
bi-weekly, $131,848.08 annually. The appointment is conditional on the candidate passing the
required background check and medical evaluation.

Amy Schenck, Clerk of Council
Scott Tadych, Public Works & Utilities Director
Human Resources
Finance (Payroll)
file

ccmtg9/15/26

Page 19 of 57

HUMAN RESOURCES

September 11, 2026

TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM:

Megan Ellis, Human Resources Manager

SUBJECT: APPOINTMENT – COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR
We are recommending the conditional appointment of JACOB SCHULTE to the position of
Community and Economic Development Director in the Community and Economic
Development Department. Mr. Schulte is currently the Assistant Community and Economic
Development Director. He will fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Thomas Smith.
Mr. Schulte will be assigned to Salary Range 168, Step F, which provides a salary of $5,311.04
bi-weekly, $138,087.04 annually. The appointment is effective October 3, 2026.

Amy Schenck, Clerk of Council
Human Resources
Finance (Payroll)
File

Ccmtg9/15/26

Page 20 of 57

MOTION
AGENDA

Page 21 of 57

STAFF REPORT
For the Business Meeting of September 15, 2026

August 31, 2026
TO:
FROM:

Ashley Combs, City Manager
Kayla Carle, Purchasing Agent
Purchase of Highway Rock Salt off SWOP4G
Cooperative Purchasing Contract

PURPOSE
To request Council to approve the purchase of highway rock salt from Champion Landscape
Supply of Dayton, OH, in the amount of $121.50/ton for the approximate usage of 3,500 tons
over the 2026-2027 winter season.
BACKGROUND and FINDINGS
This is an annual bid for the City’s snow and ice control. The salt price for the 2026-2027 winter
season will be $121.50/ton. There are many factors which go into the pricing of salt such as the
severity of winter/usage in previous seasons.
This year, Champion Landscape Supply was the only company that remitted bid requirements for
the City. This is a cooperative bid through the Southwest Ohio Purchasers for Government
(SWOP4G). The needs of 93 different entities in the southwest and central Ohio areas are
represented on this bid.
Champion Landscape Supply did not remit an optional year 2 pricing in their bid for the 20272028 winter season.
ALTERNATIVES
The alternative would be to bid the salt on our own without the benefit of a purchasing
cooperative. The cooperative gives us not only better pricing, but better leverage to get salt into
the City when faced with a bad winter and limited salt supplies.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The full financial impact of the purchase of salt depends on the severity of the winter. We
estimate our usage to be approximately 3,500 tons during the course of a normal winter season.
At a price of $121.50, this would equate to an expenditure of approximately $425,250. Funds
are included in the Street Maintenance budget (210.541.53530) for this purpose.

Page 22 of 57

EMERGENCY/NON-EMERGENCY
Motion agenda
cc:

Samantha Zimmerman, Finance Director
Scott Tadych, Public Works & Utilities Director
Charlie Anderson, Public Works Superintendent

Page 23 of 57

STAFF REPORT
For the Business Meeting of September 15th, 2026

September 15, 2026
TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM:

Earl Nelson, Chief of Police

Purchase Dispatch Radio Consoles Upgrade

PURPOSE
To purchase 4 police and fire dispatch radio consoles, maintenance, and services from Motorola
Solutions for a purchase price of $524,536.
BACKGROUND and FINDINGS
The Middletown Police and Fire Communications Center needs to upgrade its radio
communications consoles. There are four consoles in the dispatch center used for handling police
and fire calls for service. Motorola Solutions is currently offering a discount of $30,000 per
console, resulting in total savings of $120,000 for the upgrade.
This discount will only last until September 18, 2026.
The cost to purchase the consoles is included in the 2027 budget. Motorola Solutions is the sole
source provider, as all police and fire radio communications in Butler County operate on their
radio platforms.
ALTERNATIVES
Pay full price after September 18, 2026.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Financial impact has been budgeted in the 2027 budget.
2 consoles from the General Fund – Dispatch
2 consoles from the Computer Replacement Fund
EMERGENCY/NON-EMERGENCY
Motion

Page 24 of 57

STAFF REPORT
For the Business Meeting of September 16, 2026

September 9, 2026
TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM: Jacob Schulte, Acting Community & Economic Development Director

NCA Appointments

PURPOSE
To reappoint members of the Board of Trustees of the Renaissance New Community Authority
(NCA).
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS
As Council is aware, the Renaissance NCA was created in connection with the ongoing
Renaissance Pointe Development. Two terms are expiring on October 2, 2026. Reappointments
are recommended as follows:
•

Reappoint Bill Becker and Joe Newlin as Citizen Members for an additional term
effective October 3, 2026, through October 2, 2028, with their future reappointments
occurring automatically to avoid issues with terms lapsing in the future.

EMERGENCY/NON EMERGENCY
Motion

Page 25 of 57

LEGISLATION
ITEM 1

Page 26 of 57

RESOLUTION NO. R2026-22
A RESOLUTION TO MAKE ADJUSTMENTS TO APPROPRIATIONS FOR CURRENT
EXPENSES AND OTHER EXPENDITURES OF THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN,
COUNTIES OF BUTLER AND WARREN, STATE OF OHIO, FOR THE PERIOD
ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2026. (COURT COMPUTERIZATION FUND)
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Middletown, Butler/Warren
Counties, Ohio that:
Section 1
The following sums are hereby appropriated from the Court Computerization Fund
of the City to accounts of the City for the purposes herein described as follows:
FROM: Unappropriated Court Computerization Fund (Fund # 240)
TO:
Computers & Other Peripherals, Account 240.990.54300
TOTAL COURT COMPUTERIZATION FUND

$20,000.00
$20,000.00
$20,000.00

Section 2
The Finance Director is hereby authorized to draw their warrants on the City
Treasurer for payments from any of the foregoing appropriations upon receiving proper
certificates and vouchers therefor, approved by the Board of Officers authorized by law
to approve the same, or an ordinance or resolution of the City Council to make
expenditures provided that no warrants shall be drawn or paid for salaries or wages
except to persons employed by authority of and in accordance with law or ordinance.
Section 3
All legislation inconsistent herewith is hereby repealed.
Section 4
This resolution shall take effect and be in force from and after the earliest period
allowed by law.
_______________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor
1st Reading:____
2nd Reading:____
Adopted:_______
Effective:________
Attest:_______________________
Clerk of City Council
H:\Law\leg\2026 Leg\r Supp Approp (Court Computerization Fund)

Page 27 of 57

STAFF REPORT
For the Business Meeting of September 1, 2026

DATE:

August 21, 2026

TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM:

Samantha Zimmerman, Finance Director

Supplemental Appropriation – Court Computerization Fund

PURPOSE
To request a supplemental appropriation for the Court Computerization Fund (240):
240.990.54300 (Computers & Other Peripherals)

$20,000.00

BACKGROUND and FINDINGS
Expenditures in the Municipal Court have exceeded the amount originally appropriated
in the 2026 budget. A supplemental appropriation is necessary to ensure sufficient
appropriation authority remains available in the Court Computerization Fund.
There is sufficient cash available in the fund to support the requested appropriation.
The Court Computerization Fund is used to fund computer equipment, software, and
related technology needs for the Municipal Court.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The supplemental appropriation will increase the available appropriation in the Court
Computerization Fund by $20,000 and provide sufficient appropriation authority for
expenditures in account 240.990.54300.
EMERGENCY/NON EMERGENCY
Non-emergency

Page 28 of 57

LEGISLATION
ITEM 2

Page 29 of 57

ORDINANCE NO. O2026-55
AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A PROCEDURE FOR AND AUTHORIZING A
CONTRACT WITH POLYDYNE, INC. FOR THE PURCHASE OF POLYMER FOR USE
AT THE WATER RECLAMATION FACILITY FOR THE YEAR 2027.
BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of the City of Middletown, Butler/Warren
Counties, Ohio that:
Section 1
The City Manager, without complying with the procedures of Chapter 735 of the
Ohio Revised Code, is hereby authorized to enter into a contract with Polydyne, Inc. for
the purchase of polymer for use at the Water Reclamation Facility for the year 2027.
Section 2
For said purposes the Finance Director is authorized and directed to expend a sum
not to exceed $152,500.00 from the Sanitary Sewer Fund (Fund # 520).
Section 3
City Council hereby determines that the procedure to be followed in the award and
execution of the aforesaid contract shall consist solely of the procedure set forth in this
ordinance and the provisions of Chapter 735 of the Ohio Revised Code shall not be
applicable to the award and execution of the aforesaid contract.
Section 4
It is hereby determined that the subject matter of this legislation is not of a general
and permanent nature, does not provide for a public improvement, and does not assess a
tax or payment.
Section 5
This ordinance shall take effect and be in force at the earliest time permitted by
law.

Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor
1st Reading:_______________
2nd Reading:_______________
Adopted: _________________
Effective:_________________

Attest:

______________________
Clerk of the City Council

H:/Law/leg/2026 Leg/O polydyne polymer contract 2027

Page 30 of 57

STAFF REPORT
For the Business Meeting of September 15th, 2026

August 31, 2026
TO:
FROM:

Ashley Combs, City Manager
Kayla Carle, Purchasing Agent

Request for Purchase of Polymer
PURPOSE
To request authorization for a contract with Polydyne, Inc., of Atlanta, GA, in an amount not to
exceed $152,500 for the polymer needs at the Water Reclamation Facility.
BACKGROUND and FINDINGS
Polymer is used at the Water Reclamation Facility to separate solids from the water in the
dewatering system. The reclamation facility utilizes both a centrifuge and a dewatering belt filter
press in this dewatering operation. Polymer is the specific chemical that is used at the facility to
assist in the process.
The staff at the Water Reclamation Facility spent a significant amount of time evaluating the
different polymers on the market to find which polymer gives the best results. Polymer is different
from the other chemicals used at the plant in that it has to work with our particular sludge
characteristics. Through extensive testing, it has been determined that the polymer manufactured
by Polydyne produces the best and most desirable results in the dewatering of Middletown’s sludge.
For this reason, it is requested that Council approve the waiver of bids for this contract.
ALTERNATIVES
There are no other alternatives. Although there are other polymers on the market, Polydyne is the
only company that provides the polymer that is the most effective in our system. The liquid sludge
must be dewatered in order to be land-applied.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
We have requested sufficient funding in the 2027 chemical budget (520.581.53710) to cover the
expected expenses for this chemical. The exact amount is not known at this time, since usage of
the polymer is dependent upon the conditions at the facility (weather, usage, etc.), but we anticipate
spending approximately $152,500 on polymer in 2027.

Page 31 of 57

EMERGENCY/NON-EMERGENCY
Non-Emergency
Cc:

Samantha Zimmerman, Finance Director
Scott Tadych, Public Works & Utilities Director
Gerry Burris, Water Reclamation Manager

Page 32 of 57

LEGISLATION
ITEM 3

Page 33 of 57

ORDINANCE NO. O2026-56
AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A PROCEDURE FOR AND AUTHORIZING
PURCHASES OF ASPHALT BY THE CITY PURCHASING AGENT IN 2027.
BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Middletown, Butler/Warren
Counties, Ohio that:
Section 1
The City Purchasing Agent is hereby authorized to purchase asphalt at the best
prices available as needed for City purposes in 2027. Said purchases may be made
without compliance with the provisions of Chapter 735 of the Ohio Revised Code, and
said provisions are hereby waived. The procedure for such purchases shall be as
established in this ordinance.
Section 2
For purposes of said purchases, the Finance Director is authorized and directed
to expend a sum of money not to exceed $350,000.00 from the Auto & Gas Tax Fund
(Fund # 210).
Section 3
This ordinance shall take effect and be in force at the earliest time permitted by
law.

Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor
1st Reading:_______________
2nd Reading:_______________
Adopted: _________________
Effective:_________________

Attest:

______________________
Clerk of the City Council

H:/Law/leg/2024 Leg/O Purchase of Asphalt 2025

Page 34 of 57

STAFF REPORT
For the Business Meeting of September 15, 2026

August 24, 2026
TO:
FROM:

Ashley Combs, City Manager
Kayla Carle, Purchasing Agent

Purchase of Asphalt
PURPOSE
To request authorization to purchase asphalt for paving projects in 2027 in an amount not to
exceed $350,000.
BACKGROUND and FINDINGS
Asphalt is only available from two companies in the Middletown area. Hauling asphalt from
outside the area is time-consuming, more costly (considering transportation and labor costs), and
inefficient since only limited quantities can be hauled at one time. Asphalt is not available at
both plants every day, so the City must purchase the asphalt from wherever it is available on the
days it is needed.
ALTERNATIVES
The alternative is to formally bid each project as asphalt is needed, but that is not an acceptable
alternative, since this would take too much time, stalling the projects.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is $350,000 available in the 2027 budget for various street paving projects.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended Council waive the bid procedure and allow asphalt to be purchased at the
lowest and most responsive price available as needed for City purposes up to a maximum of
$350,000.
EMERGENCY/NON-EMERGENCY
Non-Emergency
cc:

Samantha Zimmerman, Finance Director
Scott Tadych, Public Works & Utilities Director
Charlie Anderson, Public Works Superintendent

Page 35 of 57

LEGISLATION
ITEM 4

Page 36 of 57

ORDINANCE NO. O2026-57
AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A PROCEDURE FOR AND AUTHORIZING AN
AMENDMENT OF THE CONTRACT WITH TRI-HEALTH CORPORATE HEALTH
NOW KNOWN AS BETHESDA HEALTHCARE, INC. FOR JAIL HEALTH CARE
SERVICES.
WHEREAS, City Council authorized a contract with TriHealth Corporate Health
(now known as Bethesda Healthcare, Inc. [hereinafter “Bethesda”]) by Motion on April
4, 2023 and was for a two-year contract period to provide health care services in the
city jail; and
WHEREAS, City Council has previously authorized two amendments of the
contract, the first renewal by Ordinance No. O2025-17 on April 15, 2025, and the
second renewal by Ordinance No. O2025-63 on November 18, 2025; and
WHEREAS, Bethesda has agreed to a third renewal at a modest increase on
the hourly rates for the period January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2027; and
WHEREAS, City staff is satisfied with the performance of the vendor and
believes this amendment will be in the City’s best interest for 2027;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of the City of
Middletown, Butler/Warren Counties, Ohio, that:
Section 1
The City Manager, without complying with the procedures of Chapter 735 of the
Ohio Revised Code, is authorized to enter into an amendment of the contract with
Bethesda to provide jail health care services through December 31, 2027. The
amendment shall be in a form approved by the Law Director.
Section 2
City Council hereby determines that the procedure to be followed in the award
and execution of the aforesaid contract shall consist solely of the procedure set forth in
this Ordinance and the provisions of Chapter 735 of the Ohio Revised Code shall not
be applicable to the award and execution of the aforesaid contract.
Section 3
The Finance Director is authorized and directed to expend a sum not to exceed
$209,660.00 from the General Fund (Fund # 100) from the 2027 budget.

Page 37 of 57

Section 4
This ordinance shall take effect and be in force at the earliest time permitted by
law.

______________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor
1st Reading: ____________
2nd Reading:_________
Adopted:__________
Effective:__________

Attest: _____________________
Clerk of City Council
H:/Law/Leg/2026 Leg/O Bethesda Tri-Health Jail Medical Services 2027 extension

Page 38 of 57

STAFF REPORT
For the Business Meeting of September 15th, 2026

September 9, 2026

TO:
FROM:

Ashley Combs, City Manager
Kayla Carle, Purchasing Agent
Health Care Services for City Jail

PURPOSE
To recommend a one-year extension of the contract with Bethesda Healthcare, Inc., of Cincinnati,
OH (formerly known as TriHealth Corporate Health) in a not to exceed amount of $209,660 for
jail health care services (including after-hours RN coverage, actual pharmacy and medical supply
costs) for 2027.
BACKGROUND and FINDINGS
The Jail Health Care Services contract was bid and awarded to Bethesda in 2023.
This service provides cost-effective medical care, and includes professional health care services,
including nursing services and secretarial support. In addition to the contract amount, the
Physician will be compensated for after-hours RN coverage, actual pharmacy and medical supply
costs. This contract keeps the City Jail in compliance with OSHA standards, provides medical
personnel to visit the jail daily, maintains malpractice insurance, and keeps us in compliance with
the laws, regulations and ordinances pertaining to this health care service.
The contract period was for two-years, beginning June 1, 2023 through May 31st, 2025 and had
the first renewal contract period from June 1st, 2025 through December 31st, 2025 and the second
renewal contract period from January 1st, 2026 through December 31st, 2026. The extension of
contract period will be through December 31st, 2027.
Bethesda kept their rates the same for term January 1st 2026 through May 31st, 2026 and requested
an increase in their rates for term June 1st, 2026 through December 31st, 2026. Bethesda agreed
to renew for an amount not to exceed $204,880 in total fees for the 2026 calendar year. Bethesda
agreed to extend contract for an amount not to exceed $209,660 in total fees for the 2027 calendar
year. There should not be any unforeseen medical costs due to the terms in this agreement.
Extending our partnership with Bethesda is in the City’s best interest for continuing services.

Page 39 of 57

6/1/23 to
5/31/24
MEDICAL
DOCTOR
REGISTER
NURSE
AFTER
HOURS RN
24/7 ON
CALL

6/1/24 to
5/31/25

6/1/25 to
12/31/25

1/1/26 to
5/31/26

6/1/26 to
12/31/26

1/1/27 to
12/31/27

$200/HR

$210/HR

$218.40/HR

$227.14/HR

$75/HR

$78.75/HR

$81.90/HR

$85.18/HR

$112.50/HR
$200/
MONTH

$118.13/HR
$210/
MONTH

$122.85/HR
$218.40/
MONTH

$127.76/HR
$227.14/
MONTH

ALTERNATIVES
1.
2.

Contract on a per visit basis, which would be cost prohibitive.
Rebid this service.

FINANCIAL IMPACT
Funds have been included in the 2027 budget for this expenditure (100.229.52480).
EMERGENCY/NON EMERGENCY
Non-Emergency
cc:

Samantha Zimmerman, Finance Director
Earl Nelson, Police Chief
Andy Warrick, Deputy Police Chief

Page 40 of 57

LEGISLATION
ITEM 5

Page 41 of 57

ORDINANCE NO. O2026-58
AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A PROCEDURE FOR AND AUTHORIZING
EXTENSION OF CONTRACTS FOR NUISANCE ABATEMENT FOR 2027.
WHEREAS, City Council approved four nuisance abatement service contracts
for private properties and vacant or other City-owned properties, by Motion on
December 5, 2023, for 2024 through 2026; and
WHEREAS, one vendor is no longer being used, but the remaining three
vendors have agreed to a one-year extension at a slight increase from last year, and
staff recommends continuing the mowing contracts with Julie Hamm, Cams Lawn Care
and Results by Carroll, LLC for 2027;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of the City of
Middletown, Butler/Warren Counties, Ohio that:
Section 1
The City Manager, on behalf of the City, without complying with the procedures
of Chapter 735 of the Ohio Revised Code, is hereby authorized to extend the contracts
for Julie Hamm, Cams Lawn Care and Results by Carroll, LLC in accordance with the
rates attached hereto as Exhibit “A”. Any written extension shall be in a form subject
to approval by the Law Director and City Manager.
Section 2
The Finance Director is authorized and directed to expend a sum not to exceed
$500,000.00 from the Nuisance Abatement Fund (Fund # 260) from the 2027 budget.
Section 3
City Council hereby determines that the procedure to be followed in the award
and execution of the aforesaid contract shall consist solely of the procedure set forth in
the ordinance and the provision of Chapter 735 of the Ohio Revised Code shall not be
applicable to said award and execution.
Section 4
It is hereby determined that the subject matter of this legislation is not of a
general and permanent nature, does not provide for a public improvement, and does
not assess a tax or payment.

Page 42 of 57

Section 5
This ordinance shall take effect and be in force at the earliest time permitted by
law.

Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor
1st Reading:_______________
2nd Reading:_______________
Adopted: _________________
Effective:_________________

Attest:

______________________
Clerk of the City Council

H:\Law\leg\2026 Leg\O Extend Nuisance Abatement Contracts 2027

Page 43 of 57

For the Business Meeting of September 15, 2026

EXHIBIT "A"

Nuisance Abatement Services
Cams Lawn Care

Julie Hamm

Description

Rates

Results by Carroll
LLC
Rates

Yard Maintenance

$55

Appliance Removal

$80

Car on Rim

$20

Car off Rim

$15

Semi on Rim

$30

Semi off Rim

$25

Half Load

$35

Full Load

$55

Rates

Tire Removal per Tire

Transport Fee

Page 44 of 57

For the Business Meeting of September 15, 2026

DATE:
TO:
FROM:

August 27, 2026
Ashley Combs, City Manager
Larry Tuttle, Chief Building Official
Jacob Schulte, Acting Community and Economic Development Director

SUBJECT:

Contract Extension
Nuisance Abatement Services

REQUEST:
To request that City Council approve a one-year extension of the contract with various
vendors for the nuisance abatement services of vacant/city-owned properties and
private properties that have failed to abide by the City’s codified ordinances within the
City of Middletown.
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS:
The Nuisance Abatement Services contract was bid during 2023 for 2024 with two
one-year extensions for years 2025 and 2026. The current contract expires on
December 31, 2026. The services provided by the current contractors have been
satisfactory, and they are willing to continue to provide those services for an additional
year at the rates in the attached exhibit. The proposed contract extension would begin
January 1, 2027, and end December 31, 2027. The nuisance abatement contract will
be put out for bids during 2027 for services in 2028. Staff recommend extending the
contracts of the following contractors:
Julie Hamm
Cams Lawn Care
Results By Carroll LLC
ALTERNATIVES:
1. To not approve the contract extension and require the contract to be put out for
bids.
2. To not extend the contract to any of the vendors and do the work in-house. This
option would necessitate buying equipment and vehicles along with hiring
employees and paying their salaries and benefits, which would be cost
prohibitive.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Funds have been included in the 2027 budget.
EMERGENCY/NON-EMERGENCY
Non-emergency

Page 45 of 57

For the Business Meeting of September 15, 2026

Nuisance Abatement Services
Cams Lawn Care

Julie Hamm

Description

Rates

Results by Carroll
LLC
Rates

Yard Maintenance

$55

Appliance Removal

$80

Car on Rim

$20

Car off Rim

$15

Semi on Rim

$30

Semi off Rim

$25

Half Load

$35

Full Load

$55

Rates

Tire Removal per Tire

Transport Fee

Page 46 of 57

LEGISLATION
ITEM 6

Page 47 of 57

RESOLUTION NO. R2026-23
A RESOLUTION TO MAKE ADJUSTMENTS TO APPROPRIATIONS FOR
CURRENT EXPENSES AND OTHER EXPENDITURES OF THE CITY OF
MIDDLETOWN, COUNTIES OF BUTLER AND WARREN, STATE OF OHIO, FOR
THE PERIOD ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2026. (GENERAL FUND – FIRE GRANT)
BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Middletown, Butler/Warren
Counties, Ohio that:
Section 1
The following sum is hereby appropriated from the General Fund of the City to
accounts of the City for the purposes herein described as follows:
FROM: Unappropriated General Fund (Fund # 100)
TO:
Major Tools & Equipment, Account 100.212.53620
TOTAL GENERAL FUND

$10,000.00
$10,000.00
$10,000.00

Section 2
The Finance Director is hereby authorized to draw warrants on the City
Treasurer for payments from any of the foregoing appropriations upon receiving proper
certificates and vouchers therefor, approved by the Board of Officers authorized by law
to approve the same, or an ordinance or resolution of the City Council to make
expenditures provided that no warrants shall be drawn or paid for salaries or wage
except to persons employed by authority of and in accordance with law or ordinance.
Section 3
All legislation inconsistent herewith is hereby repealed.
Section 4
This Resolution shall take effect on the earliest date permitted by law.

_____________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor
1st Reading: _________
2nd Reading: _________
Adopted: _________
Effective: _________
Attest: _______________________
Clerk of the City Council
H:/Law/leg/2026 leg/r Supp Approp (General – Fire Grant)

Page 48 of 57

STAFF REPORT
For the Business Meeting of September 15, 2026

DATE:

September 4, 2026, 2026

TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM:

Brian Wright, Fire Chief

SUPPLEMENTAL - ZUMRO DECON LINE

PURPOSE
The purpose of this report is to request City Council approval of the supplemental
appropriation of grant funds awarded to the Middletown Division of Fire for the purchase
of a ZUMRO Integrated Technical Decontamination Line (TDL). The Division of Fire was
awarded $10,000.00 through the Energy Transfer First Responder Fund in July 2026,
and the grant was subsequently accepted. This request is for the supplemental
appropriation of the $10,000.00 in grant funds into the appropriate Division of Fire
account.
BACKGROUND and FINDINGS
In July 2026, the Middletown Division of Fire was awarded $10,000.00 through the Energy
Transfer First Responder Fund to assist with the purchase of a ZUMRO Integrated TDL
Technical Decontamination Line. The grant was accepted by the City, and the equipment
has since been purchased by the Division of Fire.
The total purchase price of the ZUMRO Integrated TDL Technical Decontamination Line
was $14,179.81. The remaining $4,179.81 was funded through the Division of Fire's
existing Fire Operations budget.
This request is solely to approve the supplemental appropriation of the $10,000.00 in
awarded grant funds back to the appropriate Division of Fire budget account. The
supplemental appropriation will allow the Division to properly recognize and utilize the
grant funds associated with the equipment purchase.
Approval of this request will complete the financial process associated with the Energy
Transfer First Responder Fund grant and return the awarded funds to the Division of Fire's
budget.

Page 49 of 57

FINANCIAL IMPACT
The total purchase cost of the ZUMRO Integrated TDL Technical Decontamination Line
was $14,179.81. A $10,000.00 supplemental appropriation is requested to appropriate
the grant funds awarded through the Energy Transfer First Responder Fund into the
Division of Fire's account 100.212.53620.
The remaining $4,179.81 of the purchase cost was funded through the existing Fire
Operations budget. The supplemental appropriation will allow the City to properly
recognize and account for the grant funds received for the completed purchase.
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve the supplemental appropriation of $10,000.00 to the Division of Fire's budget
to properly recognize and account for the Energy Transfer First Responder Fund grant.
2. Decline the supplemental appropriation, leaving the grant funds unappropriated within
the City's accounts.
3. Postpone the supplemental appropriation, delaying the proper recognition and
accounting of the awarded grant funds within the Division of Fire's budget.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The City Manager and Fire Chief recommend that City Council approve the $10,000.00
supplemental appropriation of grant funds awarded through the Energy Transfer First
Responder Fund to the Division of Fire's appropriate budget account.
EMERGENCY/NON EMERGENCY
Non Emergency – The equipment has already been purchased using funds allocated
within the Division of Fire's current Fire Operations budget. The requested supplemental
appropriation is solely to appropriate and recognize the $10,000.00 in grant funds
awarded through the Energy Transfer First Responder Fund and does not require any
additional expenditure beyond the funds already allocated for the purchase.
cc: Ashley Combs, City Manager
Sam Zimmerman, Finance Director
Julie Klehamer, Law
Amy Schenck, Clerk of Council

Page 50 of 57

LEGISLATION
ITEM 7

Page 51 of 57

RESOLUTION NO. R2026-24
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN
AGREEMENT WITH THE OHIO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR
IMPROVEMENTS TO A PORTION OF STATE ROUTE 122 FROM JACKSON LANE
TO THE GRAND AVENUE / ROOSEVELT BOULEVARD SPLIT AND DECLARING
AN EMERGENCY.
Agreement No. 43481
PID No. 120571
BUT SR 122 9.64
WHEREAS, the City (hereinafter “LPA”) has determined the need for
improvements to a portion of State Route 122 from Jackson Lane to the Grand Avenue
/ Roosevelt Boulevard split in the City of Middletown; and
WHEREAS, Section 5501.03(D) of the Ohio Revised Code provides that the
Director of the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) may coordinate the
activities of the Department with other appropriate public authorities and enter into
contracts with such authorities as necessary to carry out its duties, powers and
functions; and
WHEREAS, the FY2027 Urban Paving Project (hereinafter “the project”) is a
transportation activity eligible to receive federal/state funding; and
WHEREAS, the LPA has received funding approval for the project listed above
from the ODOT Program Manager having responsibility for the federal/state funds
involved; and
WHEREAS, it is the mutual desire of both ODOT and the LPA to have the LPA
serve as the responsible lead agency for the administration of the project;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of
Middletown, Butler/Warren Counties, Ohio that:
Section 1
The City Manager is hereby authorized to enter into an agreement with the Ohio
Department of Transportation for funding to be used for the project. The agreement
shall be in a form and substance substantially similar to Exhibit “A”, attached hereto
and be approved by the Law Director.

Page 52 of 57

Section 2
This resolution is declared to be an emergency measure necessary for the
immediate preservation of the public health, safety and general welfare, to wit: to allow
the agreement to be signed as soon as possible to maintain ODOT’s project schedule,
and shall be in full force and effect from the date of its adoption.

___________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor

Adopted:____________

Attest: _________________________
Clerk of City Council
H:\Law\leg\2026 leg\r ODOT 2027 Urban Paving

Page 53 of 57

EXHIBIT "A"

Page 54 of 57

STAFF REPORT
For Business Meeting: January 15, 2026

DATE

September 8, 2026

TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM:

Scott Tadych, Public Works and Utilities Director

2027 ODOT URBAN PAVING PROGRAM

PURPOSE
Authorize the City Manager to enter into an agreement with the Ohio Department of
Transportation (ODOT) for the 2027 Urban Paving Program.
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS
This legislation is for 2027 ODOT Urban Paving Program. ODOT has programmed the
resurfacing of Roosevelt Blvd. (State Route 122) from the Jackson Lane to the Grand
Ave./Roosevelt Blvd. split. Construction is scheduled for the summer of 2027.
The project will include sidewalk, curb, and gutter repairs and bring the handicap ramps up
to current standards prior to the resurfacing project.
FINANCIAL IMPACTS
The total cost of the project is estimated at $2,800,000. The City’s share of the project is
estimated at $1,400,000.
EMERGENCY/NON EMERGENCY
Emergency legislation is requested at the October 6th, 2026 City Council meeting to
maintain ODOT’s project schedule
ATTACHMENTS
LPA Agreement
Vicinity Map

Page 55 of 57

UNFINISHED
BUSINESS

Page 56 of 57

NEW BUSINESS

Page 57 of 57

EXECUTIVE
SESSION

Read the agenda documentPrimary source ↗

The government’s own published record — read it yourself, then decide what to do about it.

Add to your calendar.ics

Showing up is how towns win. Put it on the calendar before it slips.

How to speak at a meetingGuide →

Public comment is where cancellations start. Three minutes, plain words, your own story.

Surveillance in MiddletownLocal report →

The cameras, the coverage, and the local record for this community.

Provenance

Where this record came from. Every source is listed, permanently.

Agenda Watch · Sep 12, 2026

Permanent ID DKT-2026-000868 — this record is never deleted.

Record history

Every change to this record, logged as it happened.

Sep 12, 2026 Filed on the Docket
Sep 12, 2026 Full document archived — public record

← The full Docket · every meeting, vote, and action on the permanent record · also in the National Record Index.

On the agenda: Middletown meeting — Flock camera (Sep 15)

The agenda, word for word

Provenance

Record history

More on the Docket in Ohio