The Docket · Government Meeting · DKT-2026-000456

On the agenda: Middletown meeting — surveillance camera (Mar 17)

Past ⚠ Agenda Watch Middletown, Ohio · Tuesday, March 17, 2026 — 7 months ago

About this record

The published agenda for the March 17, 2026 meeting contains: "surveillance camera". The meeting has passed. The agenda stays here as a permanent public record.

WhenTuesday, March 17, 2026
Check the agenda document for the meeting time.

WhereMiddletown, Ohio

Money$146,000 was at stake

On the record“surveillance camera”

The agenda, word for word

Government public record — the full text of the published document, archived August 17, 2026. Gold highlighting of key terms is ours, not the original’s. Read the original document ↗

106 pages · scroll to read

Page 1 of 106

1. March 17, 2026 Agenda
Documents:
20260317 AGENDA.PDF
1.I. March 17, 2026 Workbook
Documents:
03-17-2026 WORKBOOK.PDF

Page 2 of 106

MIDDLETOWN CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Tuesday, March 17, 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
Bull’s Run Nature Sanctuary and Arboretum Programming Update - Nancy Clark, Board Member
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 City Council Minutes of July 1, December 2, and December 16, 2025 and February
20-21, 2026 and March 3, 2026
b) Confirm the appointment of Aidan Matala to the position of Firefighter Paramedic in the
Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire.
c) Confirm the appointment of Gayle Gilbert to the position of Administrative Assistant in the
Finance Department
d) Receive and file an Oath of Office for Luke Modesto
MOTION AGENDA
a) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a professional services agreement with Hazen and
Sawyer to develop plans and specifications to replace the CO2 Storage and Feed Equipment
at the Water Treatment Plant in an amount not-to-exceed $146,000.
b) Approve the purchase of a 2026 Ford F-550 from Rush Truck Centers of Cincinnati, Ohio in
the amount of $119,795.35 for the Parks Maintenance Division.
c) Approve a contract with various vendors for the purchase of supplies for the Water
Maintenance Division.
Section
Vendor
Section 1 – Brass
Everett J. Prescott – Huber Heights, OH
Section 2 – Repair Clamps
Everett J. Prescott – Huber Heights, OH
Section 3 – Valve Boxes, Sleeves Ferguson Enterprises – Cincinnati, OH
Section 4 – Solid Repair Couplers Ferguson Enterprises – Cincinnati, OH
Section 5 – Gate Valves
Ferguson Enterprises – Cincinnati, OH
Section 6 – Alpha Gate Valves
Ferguson Enterprises – Cincinnati, OH
Section 7 – Sewer Rings, Lids
Core and Main, LP – Fairfield, OH
Section 8 – Miscellaneous
Everett J. Prescott – Huber Heights, OH

Total
$24,507.75
$31,745.25
$56,750.52
$16,309.80
$12,797.90
$36,893.58
$15,105.20
$ 3,456.00

LEGISLATION
1.

Ordinance No. O2026-09, an ordinance renewing the designated outdoor refreshment area and
declaring an emergency.

Page 3 of 106

MIDDLETOWN CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Tuesday, March 17, 2026
2.

Resolution No. R2026-07, 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 and declaring an emergency. (Property
Development Fund – Police Substation)

Resolution No. R2026-08, 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 and declaring an emergency. (Police Grant
Fund)

Ordinance No. O2026-10, an ordinance changing the zoning classification for two parcels
located at 1301 South Marshall Road from R-4p (Planned Development District) to B-2
(Community Business District). (First Reading)

Ordinance No. O2026-11, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing a contract
between the City and Middletown Industrial Technologies, LLC for the sale of city owned property
located on Hook Drive, known as Butler County parcel number Q6511026000021. (First
Reading)

Resolution No. R2026-09, a resolution authorizing the city manager to apply for and enter into
a grant agreement with the Federal Aviation Administration and Ohio Department of
Transportation Office of Aviation for the “Ramp Expansion Jets Hangar Design” project at
Middletown Regional Airport and declaring an emergency. (No action requested until April 7,
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:
(a) 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.
(b) 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 106

MIDDLETOWN CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Page 5 of 106

Total
$24,507.75
$31,745.25
$56,750.52
$16,309.80
$12,797.90
$36,893.58
$15,105.20
$ 3,456.00

LEGISLATION
1.

Ordinance No. O2026-09, an ordinance renewing the designated outdoor refreshment area and
declaring an emergency.

Page 6 of 106

MIDDLETOWN CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Tuesday, March 17, 2026
2.

Page 7 of 106

CITIZEN
COMMENTS

Page 8 of 106

COUNCIL
COMMENTS

Page 9 of 106

CITY MANAGER
REPORTS

Page 10 of 106

CONSENT
AGENDA

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MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

July 1, 2025

At 5:30 p.m., Mayor Slamka called the regular City Council meeting to order in Council
Chambers, Lower Level of the City Building.
ROLL CALL

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

PROCLAMATION

Mayor Slamka welcomed Dr. Anedra Million and her family to the podium and presented the
following proclamation:
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, it is with great pride and admiration to present this City Proclamation and
dedicate a day in honor of Dr. Anedra Million, a lifelong Middletown resident,
distinguished educator, and community advocate, who has recently achieved historic
recognition on both state and national levels; and
WHEREAS, in 2024, Dr. Million made history by being crowned Mrs. Ohio America,
representing the cities of Cincinnati and Middletown. She went on to represent the entire
state of Ohio at the Mrs. America National Pageant, where she proudly placed as First
Runner-Up—the highest placement for a Mrs. Ohio titleholder in over 25 years.
Remarkably, Dr. Million is also the first-ever Mrs. Ohio America to be crowned over the
age of 50, breaking barriers and inspiring women of all generations; and
WHEREAS, as a Middletown High School graduate and an esteemed educator in Middletown
City Schools for nearly three decades, Dr. Million has continually served her community
with dedication and excellence. She is the first Middletown native to ever win the title of
Mrs. Ohio America—an incredible achievement that brings great pride to our city; and
WHEREAS, beyond her titles, Dr. Million’s year of service as Mrs. Ohio America has been
marked by tireless advocacy work on a state and national scale. She partnered with the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration as a drug and alcohol
prevention advocate. Dr. Million represented the Ohio School-Based Center of Excellence,
speaking on Capitol Hill and at the Ohio Statehouse about critical issues including mental
health resources, education, and student advocacy. She amplified vital causes in
Middletown and across Ohio, creating greater awareness and access to prevention and
wellness resources in underserved communities. Dr. Anedra Million has demonstrated
extraordinary commitment to public service, education, and youth empowerment. Her
legacy of service will stand as a hallmark for others to emulate.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Elizabeth Slamka, on behalf of Middletown City Council, and all of the
City’s residents, do hereby honor and celebrate Dr. Anedra Million for her individual
achievements and also uplift the spirit of service, perseverance, and representation she
has brought to Middletown and to the state of Ohio and do hereby proclaim July 1, 2025,
as
Dr. Anedra Million Day

CITIZEN COMMENTS
Marva Gaston

Marva Gaston, 913 6th Avenue, Middletown, Ohio spoke. Though I'm happy to have finally
received an invitation to meet with the city tomorrow in reference to the debris left over from
the demolition of the Middletown Paperboard factory. There are a few things I feel still need
to be addressed by council, not just about the debris, but about some other things I've
noticed throughout the community. I've already addressed safety concerns about the debris.
On June 28th, I left for a weekend trip. It was about 8 a.m. as I passed by and both gates
were wide open. I didn't see anyone around or a bulldozer, but I assume some sort of activity
conducted by the city was being done. I went on my trip and returned Sunday evening to find
the gates were still wide open. They were not secured until Monday evening. I find that to be
more than disturbing knowing how often Middletown police officers ride around that area
and never noticed the gates were open. No matter how long it takes to resolve this issue,
safety has to come first. Something like this should never happen. I've been walking the
neighborhood and have noticed other things that I feel need to be addressed. One morning,
I noticed broken glass along one of the entrances to Old South Park at Fifth Avenue. There
was a city maintenance crew sitting under the overhang in the park. So, I addressed them
and asked if they would clean up the glass. They politely agreed and I went on my way. As I
walked down a different sidewalk within the park along the tennis courts, I noticed some sort
of water leak and there was a huge puddle of water around it. I turned and let them know
that about that as well. The crew again agreed to address it, but got in their truck, never
picked up the glass and went on their way. The next day, the glass was gone, but the water
was still running. As I approached meeting tonight, that water is still running in the park. Who
pays for all that wasted water? And why would it take that long for it to be addressed? I was
also at a meeting where it had been approved to repave Breiel Boulevard. Breiel Boulevard
is smooth sailing compared to Main Street between 9th and 14th Avenue. It's like a roller
coaster. How do you justify repaving a road that isn't that bad when you have a main thoroughfare that runs through the whole south end of town? How are these jobs being chosen?
What criteria is being used to prioritize importance of urgency? That's pretty much all I have,
but it doesn't make any sense. I just don't understand how things like this can get missed

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July 1, 2025

and go on for so long. Hopefully these are some things that the city will address pretty rapidly.
Thank you.
Jeff Payne

Jeff Payne, 1050 Central Avenue, Middletown, Ohio spoke on behalf of Downtown Middletown, Inc. I'm recommending and requesting that the city of Middletown delay its decision
on the demolition of the Manchester, Snider building, First National Bank building, and the
Vail House until after the completion of the downtown refresh process. The completion of
the refresh process is defined as completion of the RFQ and allowing for developers to make
their submissions for review. The reason for that is over 30 citizens have been meeting with
the Department of Community and Economic Development team to develop a strategy that
creates opportunities for varying scales of development that can encourage existing property
owners as well as outside developers to look at our downtown as a whole as an opportunity
zone. That's the term that I'm using to define it. In essence, we would be creating a market
for investment in our downtown. Making a decision on demolition using the August 2025
deadline, I believe, is premature and would negatively impact the refresh product. I'm also
recommending that the vacant property legislation, however it is tweaked or completed, that
it be implemented simultaneously with the release of the refresh product. I want to point out
that DMI working with the city conducted an assessment using professor Mertz who is an
architect specializing in historic preservation from Belmont College. On May 1st and 2nd, we
held the preservation workshop and the report was just recently submitted stated the following. “There were four buildings that were looked at, two privately owned and the other two
being the First National Building and the Vail property. The First National Building, the report
simply stated, the building needs to be made watertight, dried out and cleaned up. Rooftop
trees do not belong on the roof unless they are in pots and are being watered regularly by
the staff. On the Veil property, it referenced the reception building on the rear and it stated
ironically but maybe not surprisingly newer construction on the site has suffered catastrophic
failure due to its neglect while the historic older portion of the building remains quite solid.
In closing, we need to take a breath and look on developing a common-sense approach to
revitalization. I believe that Lisha and her team are on the right track, and you need to allow
them the opportunity to put forth a plan of action. Thank you.

Abdul Shakur Ahmad

Abdul Shakur Ahmad, 220 Park Manor Drive, Dayton, Ohio spoke. I'm here today to share a
little history. I've addressed the board previously and I‘ve sent a flyer about the Underground
Railroad Middletown history exhibit in the Pendleton Art Center. In this exhibit, we go back
before the Native Americans came and showing the transition of humans from Africa came
here 1.1 million years ago. Downtown Middletown was the center for a Underground Railroad
safe house owned by Dr. James Campbell and his wife, their son later became the governor
of Ohio. The location of that safe house is Governor Square and the Pendleton Art Center.
There are also two other houses in the area. Francis Tytus on Route 4, next to the Shell filling
station and a city park as well as Garden Manor where Steven Bonnell had a house on the
Underground Railroad. The 200th anniversary of the groundbreaking of the Miami Erie Canal
is coming up, the Great Miami River is the Underground Railroad route. The unity of the
people was the thing that um Middletown can hang its hat on. People came together for the
good of all of mankind. So, as we look at this history, you're invited to go underground at the
Pendleton Art Center on the actual land where the safe house was. There are videos,
newspaper articles, and interviews. We're connected with the African-American Museum in
Cincinnati, Freedom Center. They’ve helped us in September with International Underground
Railroad Month. Ohio was the 12th state to start observing this event three years ago and we
were a part of that observation. So, as we grow here in Middletown and we hear all of the
great things that are happening in Middletown, my request is the council share this with your
constituents. Invite them to go underground at the Pendleton Art Center and enjoy themselves. It's a fun thing and very enlightening. The Pendleton Art Center is open Tuesday
through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. I’m praying that we unite and be proud of all Middletown history. Thank you very much.

Joe Wittman

Joe Wittman, 4 N. Main Street, Middletown, Ohio spoke. I'm with the Art Central Foundation
4 North Main Street, right beside the First National Bank building. I appreciate the
opportunity to speak, but I'm very disappointed that I have to. Our downtown's future is once
again a topic of city council. This topic has been an on-again, off-again for many city council
meetings over the last 20 years. Many of us here tonight have been actively working in and
working on our downtown for 20 years. It's frustrating and maddening to hear the majority
of council speak about the necessary and inevitable destruction of our city's historic
buildings, particularly the National Bank and the Manchester Hotel. When the city took
position possession of each of these buildings, they were functional with businesses and
organizations that had active leases. Through a series of mismanaged agreements and
outright neglect, these once proud and beautiful buildings have become broken and
battered. When the city owns property, it is bound to follow its own codes and ordinances.
City of Middletown has failed to even come close to performing their due diligence and
maintaining these buildings. There is no excuse. The city owns them and allowed them to fall
into disrepair. I recently attended a meeting with city staff and madame mayor about the socalled refresh for downtown. I'm encouraged there was a meeting, but I'm shocked that we

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July 1, 2025

needed to have one. Middletown has put in place codes and ordinances for historic
preservation. Chapter 1212 incorporated the international property maintenance code in
chapter 1436. We have a registry of abandoned buildings and proper maintenance in
chapter 1458. We've paid specialists and experts for developing master plans, development
plans, housing studies, use studies, special zones, traffic patterns, historic districts, and
more. The only thing that has been missing is a city with the drive, focus, and vision to
consistently follow through. I've heard the term the issue is kicked down the road or that
downtown fell off our radar too many times. In truth, the issue has been willful neglect,
shirked responsibility, and the inconsistency and governance that Middletown is known for.
Middletown is a city that moves from crisis to crisis. We find ourselves back in crisis mode
with a council that is poised to destroy our historic buildings. These are buildings the people
of Middletown have devoted their time and talents, attention, sweat, and money to save. It
only takes three people on council to destroy our heritage. The issue could be decided by
two unelected members and only one member that was elected by the people of Middletown.
This is unacceptable. It's time to admit our experiment with our five-person council has failed.
City council is a thankless job. I know it is time to share the burden and increase the size of
our council. State of Ohio demands seven council members per Ohio Revised Code 705.72
for an at-large council for a city of our size. If we go back to a ward system, that number rises
to nine. In my opinion, more voices at the table always yield better decisions. I feel I have to
point out to some on council that while you are seeing more people at council meeting, it's
not from a sudden enthrallment with council meetings. You are seeing citizens show up that
are passionate and fed up with a city that takes no responsibility for the lack of progress that
has been long promised. Will it be easy? No. Is it possible? Yes. But it will take work. Lots of
work. Work that many of us for over the last 20 years have been doing. Feel free to contact
any of us and feel free to join us in revitalizing our downtown. But if you want to down tear
down our historic buildings, there's going to be a fight and we will win. Thank you.
Mica Glaser-Jones

Mica Glaser-Jones, 2 South Main Street, Middletown, Ohio spoke about why I believe Middletown must stabilize and reinvest in our historic buildings like the Manchester and First
Financial Bank and the Snyder/Sonshine building. We are at a critical crossroads facing
downtown Middletown. We are losing ground and we're in danger of losing more buildings.
But we don't have to lose our future. Demolition may seem like the simplest answer to vacant
or aging structures, but I'm here to make the case that stabilizing and reinvesting in our
historic buildings is the smarter, more sustainable, more community driven path forward.
There is an economic value in preserving historical buildings. Rehabilitation work like that
needed at the Manchester, First Financial and Sunshine Building creates significantly more
local jobs per dollar than new construction. These buildings are eligible for historic tax credits, facade improvement grants, and revitalization funding, resources that multiply our local
dollars. Dave Williams, board chair of Heritage Ohio, said that historic buildings are one of
Ohio's natural resources, and that historic tax credits are a vital economic tool. The state has
awarded $733 million in tax credits, which supported $6 billion in completed projects. That
is an 8:1 return on investment. Did you know that Ohio has more listings on the National
Register of Historic Places than all but two states, California and Massachusetts? There are
4,200 in Ohio and 480 in Butler, Warren, and surrounding counties. Look at what's already
happening in surrounding communities. Reinvestment in just one building can often spark a
ripple effect on neighboring properties. The Manchester is not just a building, it's a cornerstone of Middletown story. Once the heartbeat of our downtown economy and social life, the
Snyder and the First Financial banks aren't eyesores, they are opportunities. With the right
vision, they can become housing, food halls, small business incubators, retail, or restaurants.
The character they bring can't be created with new builds. Demolition takes away what
makes Middletown- Middletown. It erases layers of meaning, craftsmanship, and memory.
Preserving and reusing buildings like the First Financial Bank is an environmental win. The
greenest building is the one that is already built. Demolishing these structures sends hundreds of tons of debris to our landfills and erases years of embedded energy and materials.
Not to mention, these buildings were built really well with steel beams right here from Armco.
So, and they will not come down without a fight. We're not asking for a full restoration tomorrow. Stabilizing these buildings by securing roofs, stopping water damage buys us time to
create viable plans and funding strategies. We can approach this incrementally one block,
one building, one floor, one use at a time. Other visionaries have turned hotels into housing,
storefronts into galleries, department stores into restaurants, and hotels and banks into venues. If we lose these buildings, we lose a piece of ourselves in prime redevelopment sites
with irreplaceable architecture and history. We cannot replace our architectural legacy with
gravel lots and expect economic growth. That's not development, that's delay. Let's invest in
stabilizing these structures, not because they're old, but because they still have value to
offer. Let's create a future Middletown that rooted in its history, not haunted by demolitions.
Preservation is not sentimentality, it's strategy. Let's choose a path that honors our past
while building a better tomorrow. I respectfully ask city council to slow down the decisionmaking process to allow adequate time for more complete information to be gathered and
to ensure a wide range of qualified developers have the opportunity to review and respond
to the new RFQ. Middletown deserves the best possible outcome and that begins with an
inclusive, deliberate process. Heritage Ohio is hosting a workshop on July 23rd in Greenville,

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Ohio all about financial tools and incentives for downtown revitalization and I strongly suggest everyone attend, it's very helpful information. Thank you.
Dr. John Heyda

Dr. John Heyda, 16 Alameda Circle, Middletown, Ohio spoke. Imagine with me for a moment.
It's next January. It's a wintry day. All the leaves are brown and the sky is gray. Thought that'd
get a better chuckle, but in short, you're depressed. Your favorite teams just lost and won't
make the playoffs. Making matters worse, you learn that a series you watch on Netflix won't
be renewed for another season. What's really got you down though is that the demolition of
the Manchester Inn, the Sunshine Building, and maybe even the First Financial Bank building
approved by City Council the previous summer is leaving impossible to fill craters where your
downtown used to be. And you're realizing there's no restoring a downtown once the last of
its key landmarks are gone. A month ago, I would have subscribed to the bleak scenario I'm
imagining here. I wasn't seeing a lot of hope that these buildings could be repurposed. Today,
I'm more hopeful. We're seeing signs that a course reversal could be in the offing. We have
the Save Downtown Middletown group led by Gabe Schoenlein meeting with council members, developers, and others to chart a way forward. Prospective developers, investors, and
area officials are touring the key properties. A new RFQ is in the works. Downtown refresh
meetings are ongoing. Gradually, it's dawning on many that there's a lot to do and a lot at
stake with what happens downtown. So, what is at stake? I'd suggest that there's even more
at stake than we're acknowledging so far. By that I mean that we can't limit our thinking to
just what happens with these three or four buildings. We need to consider that what happens
with them will shape how we address larger questions regarding downtown life down the
road. Wouldn't future developers be even less inclined to sign up for helping rebuild downtown with these key properties demolished? Wouldn't many Middletown citizens be more
inclined to wash their hands of the downtown if efforts to save buildings come to nothing?
Hopes have been raised. Dashing them at this point won't help. My main point for tonight is
that if we stick with the next month's August deadline and our council votes to bring down
buildings, it's not likely that we'll ever get to this point again. Not to be too negative here, but
we'll be in a worse shape as a downtown community than we've been up until now. Council
deserves credit for bringing forward the issue of what to do with these buildings and forcefully at that. Forceful enough that the matter has aroused much citizen interest, maybe more
than council would have wanted or anticipated, but there we are. Can we consider substituting this August vote on demolition with a different approach replacing the solitary focus on
the up or down decision with a commitment to interrelated goals each with its own time
frame for enactment and its own targets for completion. How council and citizens define
these goals will take some time to sort out, but once we've worked them out, if we can do it
together, we should be in a pretty good place. Thank you.

Jade Smarda

Jade Smarda, 121 South Main Street, Middletown, Ohio spoke. I have a couple points to
address this evening regarding the economic revitalization of downtown Middletown. I want
to say that the working group sessions with city staff have been productive. We've come up
with great ideas to revise ideas to revise the 2022 RFQ in a way that could pique the interest
from more developers than ever. Our last session was on June 26th. Citizens would like to
have more of these working group sessions with staff to further implement our ideas. For
example, on June 26th, we discussed including in the RFQ standalone breakout pages that
showcase Middletown's existing attractions like the Sorg Opera House, the historic district,
Smith Park, the forthcoming new park across from the Sunshine Building, and more. We
discussed adding photos. We're working on getting more, including aerial photos. We've discussed adding metrics like the number of visitors drawn each year to the opera house, to
Smith Park, including for soccer tournaments, Light Up Middletown, etc. That way, prospective developers can draw inspiration from the existing success stories in town and see the
potential. In other words, they can see that here in Middletown, they're not working with
nothing. So, my first ask, like many others have already asked for today, please delay voting
on releasing a new RFQ until we've had more time to work with city staff to create the best
RFQ possible. And the draft keeps getting better with each working group session. So, we'd
like to have at least one or two more of those. My second ask, like others have already have
already put forth, please delay voting on demolition until after this RFQ process and any
related processes play out. Voting to demolish even one building while the RFQ is pending
could have a chilling effect on potential developers who do not want to be coming up with
plans based on a moving target. We also don't want to risk demolishing potentially the one
building that a developer was really interested in. So, let's slow down. Please don't make any
irreversible decisions during this critical time. We ask that you do whatever is necessary to
secure the buildings for now and delay any votes on demolition while this RFQ and perhaps
later RFP or other processes play out. Finally, I just want to talk briefly about the vision. Last
city council meeting, I commented that these brick buildings with awnings and wrought iron
and beautiful facades are commodities in limited supply, they can't be recreated. Lots of
people my generation and younger want them and not many towns have them. And it's also
true that that some in my generation and other generations, they want new shining things.
So, let's offer something for everyone here in Middletown. We can do that. Middletown can
and should have the East End and Renaissance Point for those who want the new and shiny.
But downtown can and should be for the ones craving that historic brick that they can't get

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anywhere else, the ones craving that less suburban vibe. I could give plenty of examples of
why there is a strong market for both, but I would run out of time. So, I will leave that comment there for now. But again, just two asks at this point. Please let citizens have at least
one or two more working group sessions with city staff to create the best RFQ possible. And
two, please don't vote on demolition until well after the RFQ and related processes play out.
Thank you very much.
Gabe Schoenlein

Gabe Schoenlein, 121 South Main Street, Middletown, Ohio spoke. I'm here once again on
behalf of the Save Downtown Middletown Coalition and the South Main and Highlands
Historic Associations to speak about the downtown revitalization effort and the future of
some of our signature downtown historic buildings that are city-owned. I want to start off by
thanking all of you for your contributions in this effort over the last few months. This council
deserves credit for putting this issue front and center, planning for action and timelines, and
providing the motivation for civilians, the city, and stakeholders to begin collaborating at a
level that could finally move the downtown revitalization project past the finish line. I am
excited. I'm extremely encouraged by the progress I've seen so far. This council has initiated
building walkthroughs to confirm the structural integrity of these buildings. We're looking
forward to hopefully hearing great news on all fronts there. We have been told that this
council has ordered a thorough cost analysis to determine if demolition with or without plans
for new development is indeed a wiser long-term financial decision than funding the
maintenance of these buildings for potential future use. Given the importance of this issue
to the future of Middletown, we expect that this analysis will be comprehensive and look
forward far enough into the future. We hope to learn more about that study and its methods
from this council and city in the future near future. This council has advised citizens and city
staff to work together to develop a new RFQ which we hope to wrap up in the next few days,
pass on to council for approval and put out for bid in the coming weeks. Most of this council
has very generously agreed to meet with me to discuss your positions, preferences, expectations, and decisional criteria for a potential vote on demolition. I have been well advised
and it has been extremely helpful in this effort. Councilman Lolli, I look forward to talking
with you tomorrow. I think I haven't responded to your email yet, but I will. Councilwoman
Carter, I hope you'll afford me the opportunity to speak or to hear your thoughts in detail and
allow me to share mine and those of the 100 plus Middletonians that I represent with you.
City staff and citizens like myself have worked hard and with great enthusiasm to develop
an RFQ that I think will be much more likely to interest developers. We've also started mobilizing to engage as many developers as possible and representing downtown in the positive
light it deserves. After all, while downtown may currently be a bit of a desert, it exists within
a jungle of great opportunity and adjacent community assets like Smith Park, Riverside, and
the beautiful Central Avenue corridor with so much potential. There is also the beautiful
South Main and Highlands neighborhoods and their world-class historic homes, Forest Hills
Golf Course, the new park that's coming up on North Main, and Miami University Middletown
to name several. These assets have not been promoted enough in the past, so we intend to
do much better this time around. I want to say that I do believe I have a unique perspective
as a liaison between city council, city staff, and citizens of the Save Downtown Middletown
coalition. I am telling you now, this council and everyone in this room, like I told coalition
members in our meeting last night, what I am seeing is special. I'm seeing a true partnership
in which city council, city staff, and citizens appear to be striving towards the same goal,
which is to save these buildings if we possibly can and finally truly revitalizing our downtown.
This is a massive opportunity for everyone involved. I'm fully committed and I hope you all
are too. In the coming weeks, as we engage developers to try to wet their appetite for this
great opportunity, it will be absolutely critical for each member of this team to participate.
We will need all parties in the same room, hopefully regularly, to encourage one another and
keep optimism and confidence in one another high. Council members will want to see multiple developers in high interest before investing public funds. Developers will be highly interested by citizens, city staff, and city council members who see they are competent, fully
bought in, heavily involved in the process, and bringing a great case for success to the table.
Highly interested developers should convince city council members that any investment in
public funds would be worth it. (The 4-minute time limit was reached.)

COUNCIL COMMENTS
Mr. Lolli

Mr. Lolli congratulated Anedra Million for her achievements and contributions and noted
pride in citizens of Middletown, Ohio who are making positive impacts locally and beyond. I
want to express my appreciation to the parade committee and volunteers, led by Mark White,
for organizing the Independence Day and Memorial Day parades. I want to address the social
media concerns about the city “taking over” the parade and clarify that Lenny Robertson was
only asked to film the parade to demonstrate potential community event coverage for TV
Middletown through the Intercommunity Cable Regulatory Commission. The parade remains
organized by the volunteer committee and I encourage residents to attend the upcoming
parade along Central Avenue, Middletown. I originally proposed an August deadline to
encourage progress, but I am willing to extend the timeline if citizens and council support
giving the committee and staff additional time. I think it is important to avoid prolonged
delays. During the Great Recession those economic challenges, and reductions in municipal
funding during John Kasich’s administration impacted the city led to layoffs and attrition in

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fire and police departments and limited resources for building maintenance. Beginning in
2014–2015 we started to rebuild staffing and leadership in the Middletown Division of Fire
and Middletown Division of Police, and the city is now in a stronger position but still has
progress to make. I am in support of continued collaboration with the citizens committee and
staff, and I am optimistic about the current discussions.
Mrs. Carter

Mrs. Carter commented that she would not speak further about the Manchester Hotel,
Middletown until a clear solution is identified, emphasizing that a decision should be made
sooner than August and ideally within the month of July. She urged council to focus on the
needs of local citizens, raising concerns about landlords moving into the city and renting
units to vulnerable residents, including individuals with disabilities, for about $1,200 per
month while providing minimal amenities such as only a hot plate instead of a full kitchen.
She shared an example of a 19-year-old who had recently aged out of the foster care system
and was placed in what was advertised online as a luxury apartment on Crawford Street,
Middletown, but found it contained only an air mattress and a hot plate while leaving him
with little money after rent. Mrs. Carter expressed concern that some outside organizations
view Middletown as a place to relocate vulnerable populations, including individuals with
mental health challenges, which she believes leads to exploitation and harms the city’s
reputation. She concluded by urging city leaders to prioritize and support residents, warning
that without doing so the city risks focusing on buildings and development while its people
continue to struggle.

Mr. West

Mr. West congratulated Anedra Million for her recognition and thanked her for representing
Middletown, Ohio and the state well. He also reminded residents to celebrate safely during
the upcoming Independence Day festivities. Addressing ongoing discussions about downtown redevelopment, he explained that the aggressive timelines previously mentioned were
intended to make the issue a priority for everyone, including business owners, property owners, residents, city staff, and council members. He noted that community opinions vary
widely, with some residents supporting demolition of the buildings, others wanting to preserve them entirely, and many falling somewhere in between. Mr. West expressed support
for additional working meetings with staff regarding the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process and acknowledged that the previous development contract for the properties had fallen
through despite the developer appearing legitimate, leaving the city without a clear explanation. He stated he is open to extending the timeline beyond August if necessary to allow more
discussion and ensure every opportunity is explored to attract developers interested in historic redevelopment. He also recognized the city’s past economic challenges but noted that
the community is now in a stronger position with more state and county resources available.
He thanked residents who have been participating, researching options, and working with
staff, and encouraged community members to continue reaching out to him directly to discuss ideas and concerns.

Mr. Horn

Mr. Horn thanked residents for attending and becoming involved in discussions affecting
Middletown, Ohio, noting that community participation helps strengthen the decision-making
process. He acknowledged public comments directed toward council and stated that while
he was appointed to his position, the appointment was made by elected officials representing the citizens. Mr. Horn suggested that council consider setting October 4 as a potential
decision date regarding the future of the Manchester Hotel, Middletown, explaining that this
would provide a full quarter of additional time for research, collaboration with staff, and responses to a Request for Qualifications (RFQ), which typically requires at least 30 days for
developers to prepare proposals. He noted that the additional time would allow community
members and staff to continue gathering information, contacts, and potential funding opportunities, including historic preservation grants similar to those secured in nearby Hamilton,
Ohio. Mr. Horn also raised concerns about the condition of the building, noting that roof
repairs would likely be necessary to stabilize the structure during any long-term redevelopment planning, and emphasized the need to consider inflation and long-term project costs
when evaluating redevelopment budgets. He encouraged the group studying downtown redevelopment to also highlight local arts and cultural assets such as the Middletown Arts
Center, noting that vibrant arts and cultural destinations can help revitalize historic downtown areas and attract residents and visitors. Mr. Horn concluded by stating that redevelopment efforts should consider the broader downtown environment rather than focusing on a
single building, emphasizing that successful revitalization will require collaboration, funding,
and community involvement, and that council will ultimately need to make and stand by a
final decision after all information has been gathered.

Ms. Slamka

Ms. Slamka congratulated Anedra Million for her recognition and thanked residents for attending in support of her and for their continued involvement in Middletown, Ohio community
activities. She noted that public comment cards are now being scanned and shared with
staff to ensure that concerns raised by residents can be followed up on, and she expressed
interest in learning more about comments raised by Miss Gaston regarding water issues. Ms.
Carter also indicated she is open to holding additional meetings with the downtown commit-

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tee and reviewing the proposed October 4 timeline regarding decisions about the Manchester Hotel, Middletown, stating that council would consider whether the date is feasible based
on staff input and the work still required. She then highlighted several upcoming community
events, including the Independence Day Festival at Smith Park, Middletown, the Independence Day Parade along Central Avenue, Middletown, and downtown activities hosted by
Downtown Middletown Inc.. She also promoted upcoming community gatherings such as
events at New Ales Brewing, the Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Festival at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, the Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival, the
Middletown Open Air Market, and historic events organized by the Middletown Historical Society. The City of Middletown accepts applications for boards and commissions throughout
the year so if there is something that you have an interest in and you wish to give back to
your city in this way, please do submit your application. To learn more please visit the city's
website at cityofmiddletown.org. Lastly and as always, there are many ways to get involved
with your community and give back. Join a board or committee, run for office, apply for a job
with the city, volunteer at the hospital, pick up trash in your neighborhood or park, plant a
garden in your yard, smile at a neighbor, find joy and satisfaction for a job well done in whatever work you do or just have a positive and giving attitude. Find something that you can do
regularly and give back. We are all connected and we are all in this together. The care of our
city is an adventure in which we all get to share.
PUBLIC HEARING2026 Tax Budget

Law Director Alex Ewing swore in Finance Director Samantha Zimmerman. At 6:40 p.m. the
public hearing was opened. Finance Director Zimmerman explained that every year the city
is required by Ohio Revised Code to annually prepare and submit the tax budget to the county
by July 15th. We are required to have a public hearing as part of this process. The purpose of
the tax budget is to establish the 2026 estimated resources or revenues that may be
appropriated and spent in the 2026 budget and demonstrates our need for the 2026
property taxes. The tax budget does not set or limit council's ability to adjust, increase, or
decrease the permanent budget resolution that will be passed later this year in November.
The county budget commission reviews the budget for reasonableness of our tax levies. After
they review the resolution accepting the rates is returned for council for approval, likely
sometime in August. The city currently levies 6.9 mills, 2.75 of which are restricted in use.
One of those is for the Fire Levy, one for the Capital Improvements, 6 mills for the Police and
Fire Pension, and 0.15 mills for the Miami Conservancy. The remaining 4.15 mills goes to
the General Fund. If anybody has any questions, I'll be happy to answer. There were no
questions or comments. No one spoke in support, opposition or on a neutral basis. Council
had no comments or questions. At 6:43 p.m. the public hearing was closed.

PUBLIC HEARING-

Law Director Alex Ewing swore in everyone who intended to speak during the public hearing.
At 6:43 p.m. the public hearing was opened. City Planner Claire Fetters Binegar explained
this is a request by Bill Morton of Leo Brown Group for approval of a map amendment and
preliminary development plan for a 124 unit assisted living facility that will have amenities
including dining options, a movie theater, fitness center, library, chapel, activity center, game
center, as well as a 144-unit multifamily apartment addition to be constructed on the parcel
listed. The parcel is a total of 10.79 acres. With this proposal, the applicant requests waivers
from Middletown Development Code Table 1204-3. Currently, we are still waiting additional
information to assess if any additional waivers would be needed. This is a vacant
undeveloped parcel. The last transfer date of the property was in March of 2025 according
to the Butler County Auditor. Currently, there is right of way on the northern edge of the
property, but there is no existing road. Hendrickson Road would need to be continued from
its stub for roadway access. Additionally, the right-of-way that currently exists to the north of
this parcel does not match the width needed to match the width of right-of-way that is
currently known as Hendrickson Road up into that parcel. So, additional consideration is
needed regarding public roadway improvements and the involvement of private property
owners north of the proposed development to ensure that the right-of-way matches current
Hendrickson Road. This subject property is currently zoned I1. The purpose of I1 is to provide
areas for development of industrial uses that have a minimum impact upon the surrounding
environment. The district is primarily designed to accommodate the retention and expansion
of existing industrial type uses which can be operated in a clean and quiet environment,
subject only to those regulations and performance standards necessary to prohibit
congestion and for the protection of adjacent residential and business activity areas. In the
review of the application submitted as compared to the city's adopted plans and regulations
staff finds the following: Table 124-3 the two proposed uses skilled nursing facility and multifamily dwellings are currently prohibited in the I1 zoning district. As for Chapter
1204.07(b)(15), the proposed plan development district does exceed the minimum acre
acreage requirement by proposing a total of 10.79 acres to be established as the plan
development district. The applicant is not proposing to use the plan development district for
a single building and or use. However, alternate uses that could be substituted for any of the
initial the two initial uses allowed in the district have not been identified. The proposed
building elevations show the heights of the various buildings or showing the heights of the
various buildings were not received in the preliminary development plan submitted. The

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applicant will need to submit sufficient plans to be reviewed for compliance with the
regulations set forth in chapter 1204 of the Middletown Development Code. The applicant's
site plan shows the building setbacks are compliant with the site development standards of
the current zoning district. In the review of the architectural standards; building elevations
were not received for the multi- family dwellings. The applicant will need to submit sufficient
plans to be reviewed for compliance in chapter 1210 of the Middletown Development Code.
However, the site plan provided by the applicant shows the six proposed apartment buildings
are not in compliance with Chapter 1210.03(a)(2)A as they are not oriented to a public road.
Further clarification is needed from the applicant regarding the proposed exterior building
materials for the skilled nursing facility. Chapter 1218.02(b) The applicant proposes a total
of 71 parking spaces for the skilled nursing facility, in exceedance with the parking
requirements for the group living use category. The applicant proposes a total of 212 parking
spaces for the multi-family dwellings, 4 parking spaces less than the parking requirements
for multi- family units. However, a development may propose up to 10% less parking spaces
without needing an administrative waiver; the applicant proposes a 1.85% reduction in
parking spaces, within the 10% reduction. Chapter 1208.04, Chapter 1216, and Chapter
1220 A lighting plan, landscaping plan, and signage plan were not submitted with the
preliminary development plan application. The applicant will need to provide adequate plans
to be reviewed for compliance with the City’s outdoor lighting, landscaping and buffering,
and signage regulations. In the review of the application submitted as compared to the City’s
adopted plans and regulations, staff finds that the 2022 Comprehensive Plan’s Future Land
Use Map indicates the property in question is located in the Regional Mixed-Use land use
category which is defined as primarily commercial uses that cater to the I-75 traffic and the
regional market with secondary uses that include office, medical, service, and residential. In
the review of the application submitted as compared to the City’s adopted plans and
regulations, the 2022 Comprehensive Plan identifies this area as the Crossroads
Development Opportunity Area contains a mixture of shopping centers of varying size, age,
and condition with a mix of residential at the northeast and southeast corner of Roosevelt
Boulevard and Breiel Boulevard. Due to its strategic location, proactive steps will be taken
to recruit complementary development within this area. The development will result in
rehabilitated shopping centers and new mixed use, pedestrian friendly developments
located next to major thoroughfares. Also, in our comprehensive plan, we do have a
transportation infrastructure chapter. Hendrickson Road is identified as a roadway that will
require future extension to the west to extend the current stub of Hendrickson Road to Breiel
Boulevard. The extension of Hendrickson Road to intersect with Breiel Boulevard will add
another secondary east west connector in the city's growing east side and the connection of
this road to Breiel Boulevard is desirable. The Middletown Housing Policy, adopted in 2019,
there were 12 global issues identified. The proposed development is in conflict with the
housing buffer around heavy industry areas as the majority of the planned development
district falls within the 1,000 ft buffer of the heavy industrial area. Additionally, the proposed
development, specifically the multi-family component, is in conflict with rental housing and
overabundance of less competitive housing global issues. Public notice was provided to all
property owners within 200 feet of the property. I only received one phone call asking where
the parcel was located, and did not speak for or against the request.
Other Department Comments
City Management
• Further discussions are needed regarding intended public roadway improvements and
public infrastructure for this proposed development. If Hendrickson Road is not
constructed to City standards finishing Hendrickson Road, substantial frontage
improvements must be made to applicant’s western property line. All public roadway
and infrastructure discussions must be finalized prior to final development plan
approval.
Community and Economic Development Department
• Clarification is needed on the LIHTC (Low-Income Housing Tax Credit) ratio that would
be proposed for the multi-family component as well as the assisted living component of
the development.
• Further explanation on the continued ownership of the property following construction
is desired to ensure the property remains well-maintained.
• The renderings of the proposed construction give the appearance of an institutional
building, not senior assisted living.
• Provide the income qualifications that will be used for the development.
• There is opportunity to consider other uses that could be named for this planned
development, such as commercial uses.
• The project narrative includes payroll information – what will be the
requirements/qualifications of staff?
Public Works and Engineering Department
• A traffic impact study will be required
• A stormwater management plan will be required.
Health Department

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• Has a market study been completed to ensure the proposed uses are needed within
the City of Middletown?
• There are concerns about maintenance following construction as well as well into the
future.
Building Inspection Division
• What is the proposed internal access for seniors within the apartments and assisted
living facility? Seniors often cannot climb three flights of stairs.
Sprinkler system will be needed.
Division of Fire
• The developers will need to accommodate the turning radius of our tower (ladder
truck). The turning radius is 48 feet. From the site plans given, it looks like the turns to
access these buildings is very tight and could cause issues for access to not only the
tower, but the fire engines as well.
• The existing facility at 4900 Hendrickson Rd., with 107 residents, generated 182 calls
for service (CFS) in 2023, 259 in 2024, and 124 so far in 2025. Doubling the resident
capacity could push CFS to over 500 annually, making it the highest-demand facility we
serve. This may warrant discussing an impact fee to address the increased demand on
resources. While I fully support new businesses and residents, it’s worth noting that
this facility is located on our east end, served by the last first-emergency first station
without dedicated staffing for both a medic and an engine. Crews handle calls as they
come, which could strain response capabilities.
Based on the staff report provided, should City Council move to approve the application, staff
recommends the following conditions be included: Substitute uses be named for the planned
development in addition to the skilled nursing facility and multi-family dwellings. The architectural standards for multi-family dwellings be upheld, including building orientation, building materials, windows, and doors, utility boxes, and architectural features. The Planning
Commission’s recommendation of approval of the proposed preliminary development plan
and map amendment is being forwarded to the City Council for final review and decision.
After reviewing the application and supporting materials submitted, and hearing testimonies
from the applicant and the public, the Planning Commission voted 6-0 to make a recommendation of approval to City Council.
Mr. Bill Morton, 12411 N. Pennsylvania St., Suite 300, Carmel, Indiana, a partner of Leo
Brown Group Real Estate Development Company affirmed that he had been sworn in. I
thought we had a very productive planning meeting. I appreciate working with staff over the
past six weeks and I’m happy to answer any questions you may have. He explained that the
facility currently in operation, Arlington Point, is a skilled nursing facility and the folks there
require 24/7 care. We'd be a personal care home. Our community is going to be three stories,
but these folks are very mobile. They're able to get up and go to the cafeteria room, participate in some level of exercise, and other activities within the building. So, it's a much lighter
level of care. This is often called assisted living. We do qualify each resident and typically
they would need assistance with activities of daily living. So that might be taking medication,
getting dressed, but it is not 24/7 care. However, there are a lot of efficiencies by being colocated. So, in addition to the main structure, we would build six three story condos, for a
total of 144 units. It would be available to anyone but it would be age marketed and really
attractive to those 60 and older to be close to the senior care that is right next door. Mr.
Morton explained that this facility is being built using low-income housing tax credits for our
financing. So, we will be required to use Medicaid.
City Council discussed the following issues:
• Concerns about increased calls for service for fire and EMS.
• Potential benefits of Hendrickson Road being extended to Breiel Boulevard.
• The number of employees that will be employed by the assisted living facility.
• The City’s population is aging and may not want the responsibility of maintaining a home.
• Concerns about the condos not having elevators.
• Concerns about the proximity to Cleveland Cliffs
• Concerns about the architectural standards
No one from the public spoke in support, opposition or on a neutral basis. At 7:20 p.m. the
public hearing was closed.
Law Director Ewing took a straw vote. Ayes: Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka. Nays: Mrs. Carter, Mr.
West, Mr. Lolli.
Recess

At 7:20 p.m., Mayor Slamka called for a brief recess.

Return

At 7:30 p.m., Mayor Slamka called the meeting back to order and the meeting resumed.

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CITY MANAGER REPORTS

City Manager Combs welcomed Clayton Castle, Communications Manager for the City of Middletown, Ohio, to the podium to announce a special community event. Mr. Castle shared that
the city, in partnership with Middletown City Schools, will host a homecoming rally and live
recording of the Middletown Now Podcast to celebrate Middletown native and world-renowned athlete Kayla Harrison. Mr. Castle noted that Harrison recently achieved another
milestone in her career by defeating Julianna Peña to win the UFC Women's Bantamweight
Championship, becoming the first woman to hold both a UFC championship and an Olympic
gold medal, in addition to her two Olympic Games gold medals in judo. He also noted that
Harrison has been nominated for Best UFC Fighter at the ESPY Awards, which will take place
soon in Los Angeles, California. Prior to that event, Harrison will return to her hometown for
a public celebration on Thursday, July 10 at 6:30 p.m. at Wade E. Miller Arena, Middletown
High School. The free event will feature remarks from Harrison, a live interview about her life
and career, potential surprise guests, and an autograph session for fans. Mr. Castle stated
that additional event details would be released soon and expressed that celebrating Harrison’s achievements is an important part of telling Middletown’s story and recognizing one of
the city’s most inspiring success stories.

YMCA Monsoon Bay
Project Update

City Manager Combs invited Tyler Roberts to provide an update on the YMCA Monsoon Bay
Water Park project in Middletown, Ohio. Mr. Roberts thanked council, the mayor, and city
staff for their partnership in bringing the project to the community and reported that construction has generally progressed smoothly despite minor delays. He stated that while
the original goal was to open by June, the current target remains early September, with the
facility operating on a limited basis through the fall as weather permits. Mr. Roberts explained that much of the foundational work, including plumbing, infrastructure, and building construction, has been completed and that final visible elements such as pool decking
and slide installation will occur in the final phase of construction. The large dual water
slide has already been constructed and will be installed on site. He also noted that the
project is currently about $500,000 over budget, primarily due to upgrades such as installing higher-quality stainless steel plumbing beneath the deck to reduce long-term
maintenance issues and expanding the fenced area to allow for potential future additions
such as splash pads and additional water features. The City of Middletown contributed $3
million toward the project, with the YMCA of Greater Dayton covering the additional costs.
Mr. Roberts also described features of the facility, including a zero-entry pool area, concession stand, restrooms, locker rooms, pump room, and slide structure. During council
discussion, Mr. Horn requested that legal staff prepare an addendum to the agreement
clarifying that the discounted admission rates for residents—$10 for adults and $5 for
children for 20 years—would begin with the 2026 season, since the 2025 opening will
function as a partial “soft opening.” Mr. Roberts agreed with the request, and council
members thanked him for the project update.

Sorg Opera House
Project Presentation

Nancy Griffith, president of the nonprofit Sorg Opera Revitalization Group, presented an
extensive update on the Sorg Opera House Project, highlighting the theater’s rich 134-year
history and ongoing restoration efforts. Since 2012, volunteers and board members have
been working to preserve the Sorg, a historic 19th-century venue designed by Samuel
Hannaford & Sons, which has hosted national acts including Al Jolson, Bob Hope, Sophie
Tucker, and John Philip Sousa. After decades of decline, including a foreclosure in 2011
and prior owner damage, the all-volunteer group has focused on critical infrastructure
repairs—plumbing, HVAC, fire safety, and roof replacement—often relying on sweat equity,
in-kind donations, and pro bono tradespeople. The Sorg has also reemerged as a vibrant
cultural hub, hosting operas, musicals, concerts, classic movies, crafting events, and
educational programs, attracting patrons from over 50 zip codes across several states.
Upcoming programming includes Middletown Lyric Theater productions, movie screenings,
and performances by nationally recognized artists through the Sorg Opera Series. Ms.
Griffith emphasized the ongoing challenge of balancing renovation costs with event
operations, noting the $375,000 OFCC state grant that requires phased expenditures and
reimbursement, with potential city support via hotel bed tax funds. Mr. Horn underscored
the Sorg’s importance as a community and educational resource, noting the phased
renovation plan, historical preservation priorities, and financial feasibility. City Manager
Combs agreed that supporting the project in 2025 is financially viable, recognizing the
Sorg as a cornerstone for downtown revitalization and a cultural asset for Middletown.

Atrium CareFlight
Project Update

Mike Stautberg from Atrium Medical Centerrovided an update on the CareFlight project,
emphasizing its role as a critical extension of first responders in the Middletown area. He
explained that Atrium operates one of the busiest CareFlight hubs, with four helicopters,
and recently needed to replace two aircraft—one from a hard landing incident and another
that was 32 years old—at a total cost of $13.5 million. Mr. Stautberg highlighted that CareFlight has saved numerous lives in accidents, industrial incidents, and emergencies,
stressing its importance for public safety. He also outlined a proposed payment plan for
city support, consisting of $50,000 by the end of 2025 and $100,000 annually for the
following four years. Finance Director Samantha Zimmerman confirmed that the funding
request can be accommodated within the civic development fund, leaving approximately

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$150,000 for future budgets. Council members expressed strong support, noting both the
immediate need for the new helicopters and the broader importance of CareFlight in saving lives across the community.
Downtown Refresh
Update & RFQ
Presentation

Luis Rodriguez from Community and Economic Development provided an update on the
downtown refresh project, emphasizing the central role of community engagement in
shaping the process. The effort began with a 30-day survey in February–March 2025,
available online and on paper, which received 290 responses. The survey aimed to gather
public input on amenities, services, inspiration from other locations, and overall benefits
of downtown development. A town hall meeting on March 11th hosted about 50 residents
in two sessions, where feedback was collected and used to draft a new Request for Qualifications (RFQ). Subsequent working group sessions on June 12th and June 26th engaged
residents and city staff in reviewing and refining the draft RFQ, facilitated by Miami University, with discussions focusing on downtown activation, execution and leadership, community support, education, and talent retention. Key feedback included expanding the RFQ
scope to cover all downtown properties, addressing safety and beautification, highlighting
downtown’s assets, and balancing specificity in project guidance with historical context.
Next steps include incorporating recent public feedback, finalizing and posting the RFQ for
a 30-day response period, reviewing proposals, and potentially working with multiple developers on different downtown areas to ensure comprehensive revitalization. Council
members and facilitators praised the process for its high level of engagement and community commitment.

Middletown Police
Department Range
Upgrades

Deputy Chief Morgan presented the proposed upgrades to the Middletown Police Department firing range, highlighting its potential to become a premier training facility and a revenue-generating asset for the city. Chief Nelson emphasized that one of his goals as police
chief was to make the department one of the top law enforcement agencies in Ohio, and
sending officers to elite training programs had allowed many to become certified instructors themselves. The current range, a 25-acre facility, is underutilized and lacks essential
infrastructure, including electricity, proper parking, restrooms, and a classroom. Deputy
Chief Morgan, who has extensive experience as a SWAT operator and statewide tactical
trainer, detailed the layout and deficiencies of the facility, including deteriorating roads,
limited security, and inadequate lighting. Proposed upgrades include installing electricity,
building a 60x40-foot training facility with restrooms, a kitchenette, and AV equipment,
paving roads and parking areas, adding perimeter fencing with controlled access, improving lighting, installing a water well system, and constructing a simulation shoot house.
These improvements would enhance training capabilities, provide safer work environments, allow the department to host certified classes for correction officers, bailiffs, fire
marshals, probation officers, and SWAT medics, and potentially generate revenue from
tuition fees. Additionally, hosting these classes locally would save money on travel and
training expenses, while increasing community trust through better-prepared officers. The
estimated costs, based on local contractors and prevailing wages, provide the city with a
realistic financial framework for moving forward with the project.
During the council discussion following Deputy Chief Morgan’s presentation on the Middletown Police Department firing range upgrades, several council members expressed
strong support for the project while raising practical questions about funding, phasing, and
potential revenue. Many highlighted the critical importance of training for law enforcement,
emphasizing that properly trained officers make safer and more informed decisions in
high-risk situations. The unique 300-yard sniper range and the proposed shoot house were
praised for their value in realistic, tactical training scenarios. Council members also discussed the potential for generating revenue by hosting classes for other agencies, noting
that fees could offset some costs, though they acknowledged that a full return on investment was unlikely. Questions were raised about which aspects of the upgrades were essential versus optional, with suggestions to phase the project—starting with basic infrastructure such as electricity, water, septic, and road improvements—before moving on to
more elaborate structures like the training building and shoot house. Some council members expressed concerns about budget priorities, balancing the firing range project against
other city needs such as parks, splash pads, and community facilities, but overall there
was agreement that this project was a long-term investment in public safety. The city manager confirmed that a detailed phased plan and midyear supplemental funding options
would be provided to council for further review, along with projected potential revenue from
training programs.

CONSENT AGENDA

Confirm the conditional appointment of Callie Fisher to the position of Community Projects
Coordinator in the Community & Economic Development Department, Recreation Division;
and the conditional appointment of Charles Jones to the position of Maintenance Worker
in the Department of Public Works and Utilities, Water Maintenance Division; and the
appointment of Joshua Butler to the position of HVAC Building Maintenance Technician;
and the appointment of Kacie Dean to the position of GIS Administrator.

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Confirm the promotional appointment of Bryce Nartker to the position of Fire Apparatus
Operator in the Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire; and the promotional appointment of Laura Sherwood to the position of Executive Account Clerk in the Department of Finance, Division of Treasury.
Receive and file the following board and commission minutes:
Civil Service Commission- April 17 and May 15, 2025
Architectural Review Board- April 22, 2025
Historic Commission- May 15, 2025
Library Board- May 21, 2025
Receive and file Oaths of Office for Tavionne Crosby, Brady Huffman, McKenzi Saunders and
Brian Wright
Accept the resignation of Michael Huff from the MidPointe Library Board of Trustees
Mr. West moved to approve the issues and actions listed on the Consent Agenda. Mrs. Carter
seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. West, Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka, Mrs. Carter, Mr. Lolli.
MOTION AGENDA
2026 Tax Budget

Contract with Gibbons
Planning Group, LLC

Receive, file and adopt the 2026 Tax Budget.
Mr. Horn moved to receive, file and adopt the 2026 Tax Budget. Mr. West seconded. Motion
carried. Ayes: Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.
Authorize a contract with Gibbons Planning Group, LLC in the amount of $118,600.00 for
the update of the Middletown Development Code.
Mr. West moved to authorize a contract with Gibbons Planning Group, LLC in the amount of
$118,600.00 for the update of the Middletown Development Code. Mr. Lolli seconded.
Motion carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Horn.

JobsOhio Vibrant
Communities
Program Grant

To accept a JobsOhio Vibrant Communities Program Grant for in the amount of $28,250.00
for planning assistance for the Middletown Community Grocer/Health Clinic Project.

Approve 4 School
Resource Officers

To approve providing four School Resource Officers to Middletown City School District for the
2025-2026 school year.

Mr. Lolli moved to accept a JobsOhio Vibrant Communities Program Grant for in the amount
of $28,250.00 for planning assistance for the Middletown Community Grocer/Health Clinic
Project. Ms. Slamka seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. Lolli, Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka. Nays:
Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.

Ms. Slamka moved to approve providing four School Resource Officers to Middletown City
School District for the 2025-2026 school year. Mrs. Carter seconded.
The following was discussed: The Middletown City School District is set to receive four School
Resource Officers (SROs) for the 2025–2026 school year, with the district covering 75% of
employment costs and additional expenses such as training, cell phones, and vehicles, totaling approximately $413,985.80, while the city covers 25% of costs during times when
school is not in session, amounting to $140,412.86. This contract follows recent patrol officer salary adjustments, including an 8.8% increase effective November 1, 2024, and a
scheduled 4.5% increase in November 2025, which are now included in the cost calculations.
Key concerns raised during the meeting included the reduction from six to four SROs, potential impacts on street patrol coverage, and vague contract language regarding training approvals, adherence to school policies, and arrest authority. Chief Nelson responded that the
four SROs are capable of handling their school assignments without overburdening street
officers, that training decisions are made by the police department, and that arrests are
executed by the SROs with notification to school staff rather than requiring school approval.
The legal director emphasized that officers must retain operational control to ensure safety,
with schools being informed but not directing arrests, and that day-to-day responsibilities
such as safety patrols and training are managed collaboratively. Before final approval, contract language will be revised to clarify training approvals, arrest authority, and updated costsharing percentages to reflect wage increases. Ms. Slamka withdrew her motion.
Table SRO Contract

Mr. Lolli moved to table the motion to provide four School Resource Officers to Middletown
City School District for the 2025-2026 school year. Mr. West seconded. Motion carried. Ayes:
Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli.

Recess

At 9:26 p.m., Mayor Slamka called for a brief recess.

Return

At 9:34 p.m., Mayor Slamka called the meeting back to order and the meeting resumed.

Ord. No. O2025-38
Dell Virtual Environment

Ordinance No. O2025-38, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing the
purchase of Dell Virtual Environment hardware from Insight Public Sector, Inc. and declaring

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MIDDLETOWN, OHIO
Hardware Purchase

July 1, 2025

an emergency was read.
Mr. Lolli moved to approve Ordinance No. O2025-38, an ordinance establishing a procedure
for and authorizing the purchase of Dell Virtual Environment hardware from Insight Public
Sector, Inc. and declaring an emergency. Mr. West seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. West,
Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka, Mrs. Carter, Mr. Lolli.

Res. No. R2025-21
Opposition to HB 335

Resolution No. R2025-21, a resolution opposing House Bill 335 and urging the Ohio General
Assembly to reject legislation that eliminates inside millage and transfers local budgetary
authority to county budget commissions and declaring an emergency was read.
Mr. Lolli moved to approve Resolution No. R2025-21, a resolution opposing House Bill 335
and urging the Ohio General Assembly to reject legislation that eliminates inside millage and
transfers local budgetary authority to county budget commissions and declaring an
emergency. Mr. West seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs.
Carter, Mr. West.

Res. No. R2025-22
Amend Appropriations
(General Fund)

Resolution No. R2025-22, 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, 2025 (General Fund) was read for the first
time.

NEW BUSINESS

Mr. Horn suggested October 4th as the as the target date for RFQ decisions. The discussion
focused primarily on setting a timeline for the RFQ (Request for Qualifications) related to the
Manchester and other municipal buildings. There was a consensus that releasing the RFQ
around August 1st would allow the standard 30-day response period while giving staff and
committees adequate time to review submissions. Council members emphasized consulting
staff and the community downtown committee to ensure the date works for all parties and
to prevent repeated discussions at future meetings. They also noted the importance of allowing sufficient time after the 30-day response window for evaluation, taking into account
holidays in early September, so final decisions could be executed by the last quarter. Overall,
the council agreed to hold off on finalizing the specific RFQ date until further review by staff
and relevant committees.
Mr. West asked staff to look at potential funding streams for police firing range

EXECUTIVE SESSION

RETURN
APPOINTMENTS
Tara Ramsey-Hunter
Planning Commission
Marie Edwards
MidPointe Library Board
ADJOURNMENT

At 9:45 p.m., Mr. West 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; and under the authority of
O.R.C. 121.22 (G) (3) Conferences with an attorney for the public body concerning disputes
involving the public body that are the subject of pending or imminent court action. Mr. Lolli
seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Horn.
At 10:16 p.m., Mr. West moved to return to regular session. Mrs. Carter seconded. Motion
carried. Ayes: Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka.
Mr. Horn moved to appoint Tara Ramsey-Hunter to the Planning Commission. Mrs. Carter
seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli.
Mr. Lolli moved to appoint Marie Edwards to the MidPointe Library Board. Mrs. Carter
seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli.
At 10:17 p.m., the meeting was declared adjourned until the regular meeting on July 15,
2025 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.

Attest: ___________________________

______________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor

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At 4:00 p.m., Mayor Slamka called the special City Council meeting for the purpose of regular
business to order in Council Chambers, Lower Level of the City Building.
ROLL CALL
Town Hall
Jade Smarda

Gabe Schoenlein

City Council Members present: J. Carter, Mr. West, P. Horn, E. Slamka, P. Lolli.
Jade Smarda, 121 South Main Street, Middletown, Ohio spoke. Mayor Slamka, members
of council, as you know, the demolition of the Manchester is no one's first choice, but
many of us recognize the need for market rate housing downtown. An infusion of
residents will help businesses flourish and hopefully that will spark other developers and
businesses to also invest in downtown Middletown. In short, I understand that mixed-use
development on a 4 acre parcel could be the catalyst we need to save the rest of our
historic downtown. But it would be useless to ignore that many citizens feel some
skepticism and distrust due to both the actions and inactions of past city councils. The
Manchester should have never sat vacant in the wrong hands for so long. Contrary to
popular belief and perhaps urban legend, the building could be saved, but the price tag
is high. So now, we have a big decision to make. But with demolition or potential
demolition, this council is asking residents to make a major sacrifice. So, it's only fair that
we ask for certain consideration in return. First, no demolition without a firm commitment
from a developer. We don't want a situation where the Manchester is gone and the
developer has changed its mind. One more vacant lot where a beloved building used to
stand will likely be the straw that breaks our fragile trust. Tell us what you can do to
guarantee that you will not demolish the Manchester for the sake of another vacant lot.
Second, designate the Manchester block as a historic district to ensure historic
commission review of future construction. This is a historic downtown. People come to
historic downtowns for a historic vibe. That's why people visit Lebanon, Miamisburg and
Hamilton. No one wants to see cheap or trendy construction that will be dated and tacky
by 2035. We already have apartment buildings like that near downtown and they did not
age well. We want something timeless like the Manchester that will age gracefully. In
short, a new construction built to look old and timeless. It can and has been done all over
the country and frankly the world. The drawing in the proposal is a first draft and we
appreciate that the developer wants to repurpose elements from the Manchester, but the
drawing is not there yet and it should be finalized under the supervision of the Historic
Commission. Third, we insist that any building that replaces the Manchester be just the
first big step to energize downtown. Once we have a commitment from a developer, take
it and leverage it with other developers and businesses. Do not take your foot off the gas.
Start with Central and Main and work all the way down Central, saving our old buildings
along the way. Fourth, improve and enforce your vacant property legislation. Even now,
there are businesses who want to be here, but they cannot get in. All of our efforts will be
a waste of time if good storefronts are being held hostage by landlords who allow them
to depreciate for a tax write-off. I know it is costly when they lawyer up. So, first tighten
your legislation if necessary, then diligently enforce it. If necessary, expand your law
department so you have dedicated staff attorneys focusing on this issue. If they do their
jobs well, then you can scale back on the law department down the road. In return, we
will have more businesses and tax dollars coming in here. The fiscally responsible thing
to do is to spend money to make money. Finally, don't underestimate the importance of
refreshing downtown. I know East End development feels like an easy win, but it will not
last if the rest of Middletown is left to flounder and eventually fester. Thank you.
Gabe Schoenlein, 121 South Main Street, Middletown, Ohio spoke. Good evening, Mayor
Slama and City Council. This is a pivotal time in Middletown's history. This council has
chosen to take urgent decisive action in determining what role the Manchester and other
historic buildings will have in Middletown's future. Our neighbors across southwest Ohio
are watching us as private and public dollars, jobs and reputations, and Middletownians
identity and pride hang in the balance. I'm here today speaking on behalf of members of
the Save Downtown Middletown coalition to deliver a short list of our recommendations
related to the Manchester decision and the broader downtown revitalization effort moving
forward. We understand that the developer’s proposal is a first draft and there's much
work to be done to refine it. So, we'll provide city council with our full list of questions and
concerns about this first draft and ask that they be considered in the next phase. Uh, but
moving on to our short list now. Item number one, citizen representatives should be given
a place at the table. Council should take meaningful steps to ensure that healthy levels
of transparency and citizen engagement we have seen in 2025 is carried forward. Too
often has a lack of transparency and in citizen engagement deprived citizens of
opportunities to contribute to hold our leaders and city staff accountable to learn from
past mistakes and to build effective relationships and trust. Middletown citizens are still
recovering from the chaos left in the wake of the Wayland and Hollywood Land projects.
We insist that changes be made to empower us citizens to help prevent those disasters
from being repeated. Council should arrange for citizen representatives independent from
city staff and city council to be included in important communications and have a seat at
the table when impactful decisions are being made. Item number two, city council should
commit to making the arrangements necessary to ensure that any new construction on

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the Manchester and Sonshine property will genuinely contribute to downtown's historic
character. Any new construction on the Manchester site will have a major effect on the
historic character of our downtown. Because the Manchester building is historically
designated, the land on which it resides is not, these standards may not apply to any new
development. This is an unacceptable risk to Middletownians. We commend city council
and the developer for honoring Manchester's history by proposing to incorporate some of
its architectural details into the building that will replace it. Equal consideration should be
given to our downtown’s aesthetic. We must make certain standards applicable to these
new structures to ensure that they contribute, not detract, from our downtown’s beauty
and historic character. To this end, city council should commit to granting the Historic
Commission the right to review final plans, support any future efforts to add the
Manchester block to the Main Street commercial historic district and be open to
increasing public investment in Manchester site projects commensurately with the
additional cost associated with meeting these existing standards. Pay for quality. We
deserve quality as Middletownians.
Raymond Peterson

Raymond Peterson, 306 Ross Street, Middletown, Ohio spoke. Good afternoon. I'm here
as the President of the Middletown Arts Center Board of Governors. I would like to begin
by saying that we at the Middletown Arts Center are pleased and excited about the
redevelopment of these properties which we support. But we think the plan needs to be
expanded to include the entire Dora district in a meaningful, integrated, and synergistic
way. As perhaps you know, the Middletown Arts Center is located just across Donham
Plaza, adjacent to the Middletown Historical Society. We've been there for 70 years and
we plan to be there for at least 70 more. But we are disturbed to see that from the site
drawing dated October 24, 2025, the plan is to wall off Donham Plaza, the Art Center,
and the Historical Society with a line of garages, excluding that part of the DORA District
from the redevelopment area. CMC wrote in their downtown development plan slide deck
that the development footprint has been deliberately
planned to respect existing street grids while introducing new pedestrian linkages and
that they desire integration with the Dora district boundaries to encourage walkability and
community activity and that they desire synergy with existing adjacent privately held
properties. And yet the plan is to wall off the only existing community institutions in the
project area. I'll let the historical society speak for itself, but we at the Middletown Arts
Center are perplexed. Why would CMC exclude a vibrant and thriving cultural center from
their plans? Why have they never spoken with us? Perhaps they do not know we're here
just across the plaza or perhaps they don't know the impact that we have in the
community. And so I've asked our Executive Director, Kate Morrow to bring everybody up
to speed.

Kate Morrow

Kate Morrow, 200 Scarlet Oak Drive, Monroe, Ohio spoke. Thank you. I am the Executive
Director of the Middletown Arts Center and like many here, I'm really excited to see the
new development proposed for downtown, especially so close to the Middletown Arts
Center. When I served on the downtown refresh committee, the focus was on creating a
cohesive, walkable arts and entertainment district. That vision really meant a lot to us
because we've often felt a little disconnected. Even though we're only a couple blocks
from Central Avenue, the new park and development finally felt like a bridge to the rest of
downtown. But when we look at this site plan, it appears that we would be physically cut
off from the new park by the front face of the Main Street building and the line of parking
garages. I think this unintentionally creates a barrier between the cultural institutions that
are already there and the new development. A fully connected space both visually and
physically would support citywide events with coordinated use of Donham Plaza, the park,
the MAC, the Historical Society, and the city building itself all the way to the Sorg and the
DORA District. It just could connect the whole area. But when you can't even see us
because of this structure, there's no connectivity. The MAC is already doing the work of
bringing people to downtown every single day and growing significantly while doing it. In
the past five years, our visitors are up 60%. Our payment to artists are up 91%. The
numbers of our employees up 80%. Our community partners up 186%, our revenue up
88%, all while increasing our outreach programs with more than 1,000 people receiving
free art programs in our economically disadvantaged area. All of that sounds pretty good,
but this year has surpassed them all. Just so far in 2025 with our newly launched annual
event series with over 30 free fun art experiences that has helped to re-energize
downtown. These events that bring families and visitors to downtown that support local
businesses. So far, our visitor numbers have already skyrocketed over 80% over 2024
alone. So, people want to come downtown. They want art experiences. You know, this is
something people want. Our families, our visitors, and we still have major events ahead
like this Saturday's Merry Mixer with the Middletown Community Foundation and several
other things. I wouldn't be surprised if we double our numbers this year over 2024. All of
this is happening right where we stand today directly adjacent to the project area. So, the
MAC is not a theoretical asset. We're a thriving active cultural anchor driving people to
downtown right now and we just want to be fully integrated into the vision for downtown
into this walkable arts district. We're really, truly grateful that council has recognized the
MAC's role and has begun providing the foundational support to us. We collaborate with

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over 50 local businesses and organizations to serve our community. We just ask that
tonight, as you guide this design forward, you think bigger and just imagine the
possibilities of what we could all achieve collectively if we prioritize that connectivity and
partnership.
David Balsmeyer

David Balsmeyer, Mount Pleasant spoke. I have lived in the area for years. I propose
that they salvage as much of the beautiful woodwork as they can from the Manchester.
They should build a nice supper club and use the reclaimed wood in it; the kind of place
where men must wear a tie. Thank you.

Sam Ashworth

Sam Ashworth, 1912 Antrim Court, Middletown, Ohio spoke. I wasn't really sure what the
format was going to be tonight. We've had a couple different town hall formats. I have
more questions for the developer and maybe that'll happen later. I will say that I'm glad
that something is finally happening. It's been a long time and we need to get off the dime
and make some things happen for Middletown. This could be the spark that really does
that. I'm hoping so. I have been over the proposal and studying it and I do have questions
for the developer. One of the things I do want to say is that I really appreciate their
willingness to incorporate several aspects of the historical side of the Manchester. If you
look at the proposal, they're proposing something not only outside but inside. I think that
that will really satisfy a lot of the citizens that that have a connection to the Manchester
and I applaud them for doing that. I look forward to working with them in terms of
providing historically significant photos and information. I do however share the concerns
of the art center. In looking at the proposal, the only entryway into the parking lot is
through the plaza and right by the Historical Society end. That seems to me to be a little
constricted, of course the plaza was used as an entry into the Manchester. However, the
plaza has had a lot of uses. The pavers are not really in good shape. So, when you consider
two-way traffic coming and going out of there, I think that's an issue that needs to be really
looked at. Secondly, I do share their concerns about the garages on that side facing or the
back ends of them facing the Historical Society and the art center. We were over in
Lebanon last week and I drove down to their installation that they have in Lebanon. Took
a couple pictures of the back ends of the garage garages to just to kind of get an idea of
what that would look like out of our window and it's not really a good connection. Ever
since we've been in the what was the women's center, the Manchester has been closed.
We've been looking forward to something happening in this area to really bring people
over to the Historical Society. There is a disconnect between our end of the downtown and
the official downtown. I look forward to working with the developers to see if we can find
some solutions for some of these concerns. Thank you very much.

John Heda

John Heyda, 16 Alameda Circle, Middletown, Ohio John Hayda, 16 Alameda Circle spoke.
Unlike many of you, I’m fairly new in town. When I got here in 1981, I lived downtown on
First Avenue across the street from the Parrot. At that time, the City Center Mall was
relatively new. I'm thinking that as we're looking at making significant changes to the
downtown, we should keep in mind the need for parking for residents and shoppers. I'm
hoping that as we work on the development of this project we'll take a look at traffic flows
and traffic and pedestrian movement. I think there's still some work to do on that.

Mary Johnson

Mary Johnson, 6700 Locust Lane, Middletown, Ohio spoke. I'm very excited about this. As
you all know, I'm also chair of Downtown Middletown, Inc. Every one of us, as are most
people in this room, are very passionate about our downtown and passionate about our
history. So, it's very exciting to finally see something happening on a big scale. It's going
to make a big difference to downtown. It's going to be very visible. So, I think along that
line, then the diagrams that I've seen as part of this presentation of what the actual
building would look like are very underwhelming. So, we're taking a historically significant
building, tearing it down, salvaging it, which is wonderful. Yet that apartment building
could be anywhere. It, you know, it's steel, glass, and brick, but that's not really anything
unique about it. As I looked at the examples from other communities of the work of this
developer, they're really amazing. Some of them look like they have been there for a very
long time. So, I feel like we should do better. If we're taking a space that had a historically
significant building, we should replace it with a new build, right, that looks historically
significant as well. As a previous speaker said, it won't age, ungracefully in the next 10
years. It'll look like something that, perhaps is old already yet with all the modern
conveniences. Secondly, I think most of us are so excited about this because it's a spark,
right? We've all been waiting, you know, we've seen Miamisburg, we've seen Hamilton,
everyone has really had their renaissance, particularly downtown, and we're waiting for
our renaissance. I think what we need to do is to make sure that that spark doesn't fizzle
out and die because of our problem with vacant property. So, you know, we've heard
vacant property legislation is being worked on with the city. I would like to see a timeline.
I would like to see an update of what's going on. I would like to see what obstacles are in
the way. This has been in the works for a number of years. We've obviously had vacant
property legislation that was not enforced. How are we going to solve that problem? I think
in tandem with this right which is supposed to be completed what like within the next
three years in 2028 or 2027 this property that it really does ignite that flame downtown

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but it's not smothered under the weight of all the vacant property and all the irresponsible
landlords that are just you know using our downtown buildings as tax breaks. So, I think
we have a spark. We must have fuel to feed that fire. We don't want someone throwing
ashes and a blanket and water on it because of the vacant property. Thank you all for
your service.
Jeff Payne

Jeff Payne, 1050 Central Avenue, Middletown, Ohio spoke. Downtown Middletown, Inc.
hasn't had an opportunity to formally review this, and we would invite Mr. Cohen to come
and meet with us so we can share ideas and give insight into our thoughts. DMI has
invested over 4700 hours of volunteer time just this year alone, equaling $159,800.00
of free labor to help revitalize the downtown. I think we can all agree that this site plan as
proposed had to come in under a timeline. So we needed to have something to start with.
I wanted to draw your attention to a piece that's called the public private partnership term
sheet. I think it's very important that you as policy makers understand the implications of
what this term sheet is saying because it's basically a contract wherein the city is going to
make certain commitments uh and uh if those commitments aren't made that gives the
developer the opportunity to say well I can't do the project. I think we all understand that
we have a very soft housing market downtown and that's one of the things we need to
strengthen. As I was reviewing this, I noticed that you're looking at a five-year moratorium
on multifamily zoning outside of the downtown. So what does that mean? How is that
interpreted? Because we're trying to catch up on all the stuff that's been going on outside
of the downtown and there are development interests out there that for some reason I
would consider them sometimes competing and they lawyer up too. You want to make
sure you you're prepared to do that. There are a number of other things, but I just wanted
to make sure that at least that is one that is clearly addressed and explained to the
broader community as well as to downtown. I would echo that vacant property legislation
is absolutely essential. I think the developer would tell you that he needs to know that you
are going to provide encouragement to these other building owners who are just kind of
sitting and waiting so that when the other developers who will follow come in that if they're
not listening or being attentive that you have a way of encouraging them to be a little bit
more attentive. Thank you.

Jim Cohen,
CMC Properties

Mr. Jim Cohen, CMC Properties commented, good evening, and thank you all very much
for coming out tonight and sharing your comments. They are extremely helpful, and I’d
like to address as many of them as I can. I’ll start with the housing moratorium, because
I think that’s an important concern and I appreciate it being raised. If we are going to grow
downtown, we need to concentrate our efforts downtown. Over the decades, much of the
attention in Middletown has been focused on the I-75 corridor. While that corridor has
developed nicely, downtown has suffered as a result. What I’m asking Council to consider
is this: over the next several years, as we reinvigorate downtown, now that we’ve sparked
new momentum, I’d like to see fuel added to that spark. That means encouraging more
housing downtown. It may sound contrary to my own financial interests to say this, but I
am not asking the city to prevent additional development that could compete with my
building. In fact, I’m encouraging it. Competition and increased density are what will help
downtown grow. A couple hundred new residents is helpful. Four hundred is better. A
thousand is even better than that. If we want to see historic buildings like the Sorg Opera
House, the First National Bank Building, and the Get Tower brought back to life, the key
is people. We need residents downtown who will bring energy and vitality, people who will
support businesses and create the demand necessary for redevelopment and reuse. I’d
also like to thank Mr. Payne for his comments. I would absolutely welcome the opportunity
to sit down with Downtown Middletown, Inc. I’ve had a very positive relationship working
with Downtown Lebanon, Inc., and I believe we can accomplish similar good work together
here. Regarding the design: this is an initial proposal, it is not the final design. Our
architect, Tony Ravanani, is here tonight. He has spent significant time walking through
downtown and studying its historic buildings. Our goal is to create a design that fits within
the character and architectural language of downtown Middletown. As we refine the plans,
we will continue working toward a design that the community and Council can support. To
address the concern about the garages acting as a barrier: that’s a fair point. The current
layout reflects our civil engineer’s effort to orient the building toward the park and the
city’s new investment there. As you can see in the design, both legs of the L-shaped
building are focused on the park. In Hamilton, our Marcum project integrates directly with
Marcum Park, allowing the park to flow naturally into the residential development. We
hope to create a similar synergy here. That said, we agree that connectivity is critical. As
we continue working with our civil engineer, we will absolutely explore relocating the
garages or adjusting the site plan to improve pedestrian flow, ensuring that the park
connects through the building and back into downtown in a way that feels intuitive and
welcoming. Finally, I love the supper club idea that was mentioned. Preserving elements
of the existing building, such as woodwork, during demolition and incorporating them into
the new development is something we’re very open to. We plan to include retail on the
first floor, and I would love to see a local pub or supper club that honors the history of the
original hotel. If that’s not feasible for a retail tenant, we can certainly explore
incorporating those historic materials into the lobby or leasing office. Reusing those

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elements would be a meaningful way to carry forward the building’s legacy. Thank you all
for your thoughtful feedback. I truly appreciate it, and I’m more than happy to continue
the conversation and answer any additional questions.
Mr. Horn

Mr. Horn explained that the establishment of the planned park area would have a domino
effect and the development project will follow and serve as a catalyst for broader
downtown revitalization. He expressed appreciation for the developer’s collaboration with
Mr. Ashworth of the Historical Society and Mr. Schoenlein, emphasizing the importance
of preserving and honoring Middletown’s history. Mr. Horn noted that the Manchester
Hotel was originally constructed to replace the historic U.S. Hotel, the city’s last pre-Civil
War building. He stressed the importance of incorporating historical elements, such as
stone features and a historical marker, into the new development to commemorate the
site’s legacy. He reflected on longtime community landmarks, including the Paramount
Theater, Colonial Theater, City Center fountain, and the former town mall, noting that
while physical structures may be removed, community memories remain. He stated that
the Manchester Hotel had become obsolete in recent years and referenced its decline
following a water main break. He emphasized that moving forward with redevelopment is
necessary for the city’s future. He described the proposal as preliminary and part of a
broader planning process that will include community input. Mr. Horn outlined the vision
for an “entertainment corridor” connecting the Sorg Opera House, the Windamere, and
the proposed park. He stated that this type of mixed-use development has proven
successful in other communities and is consistent with current development trends. The
lower level of the proposed building would consist of retail space to support both residents
and visitors and activate the park area. He also referenced infrastructure improvements
in the area, including electrical connections intended to support events such as MiddFest,
which city leadership is working to reestablish. Mr. Horn concluded by emphasizing the
need for collaboration among City Council, the City Manager, the developer, and
residents. He acknowledged that the governmental process may be lengthy but stated
that the project represents a necessary step toward downtown revitalization.

Mr. West

Mr. West thanked everyone for their input and hard work throughout the RFQ process —
Mr. Schoenlein, Mr. Ashworth, Downtown Middletown, Inc., and everyone else involved. A
year ago, we made a commitment that it was time to take downtown seriously. I knew that
would come with some heartache and growing pains, but none of us on Council can simply
sit back and believe that one single action will fix downtown. It’s going to take everything
working together. Looking ahead to 2026, one of our main focuses will be vacant
properties downtown. I want to be clear: there are some excellent stewards of downtown,
business owners who lease their buildings and maintain them properly. But there are also
property owners who, as I’ve said for months, are intentionally allowing their commercial
real estate portfolios to depreciate while using Middletown to do it. I’m not willing to
tolerate that anymore. Addressing vacancy will be a priority. I also want to thank Mr.
Joshua Smith with the Butler County Finance Authority. He has been a crucial partner as
we moved downtown to the forefront of our priorities. While we all care about the East
End, we must focus on every corner of the city. Investments in public safety, the Sonny
Hill Community Center, downtown redevelopment, and the East End, all of it matters. The
East End, in particular, is going to be a race. We must outpace the next highway exits that
are being developed. There are hundreds of millions of dollars potentially tied up in that
area, and we need to ensure that progress there benefits the entire city. At the end of the
day, all revenue flows into the same pot, so all of Middletown must succeed.
Now, regarding the development terms that were presented:
• Item 6: Master lease of select apartments by a university or the City of Middletown.
I would be opposed to this. The City is not in the business of guaranteed leasing. That
said, Mr. Cohen, I’ve visited many of your developments, and I believe in your product
and your firm. I’m confident the units will lease without City guarantees.
• Item 7: City-sponsored student loan grants for downtown residents.
I understand the sentiment, and I know there are initiatives in Hamilton that may be
relevant. However, I would prefer to remove this for now until we have further
clarification on similar programs citywide.
• Item 9: 30-year property tax abatement (100% residential improvements, 75%
commercial
improvements).
This development falls within the downtown CRA. The first 15 years would be under
that CRA, and years 16 through 30 would operate as a TIF structure.
• Item 12: Five-year moratorium on multifamily zoning outside of downtown.
I am 100% opposed to this. There are multiple developers looking at multifamily
projects across various areas of the city, including the East End. We cannot restrict that
growth.
• Item 13: City-provided leasing incentives for commercial tenants ($300,000 for spaces
over 3,000 square feet; $100,000 for spaces under 3,000 square feet).
I would be opposed to this as well.
The remaining items: park improvements, tap-in fees, streetscape investments — I fully
support. Those are smaller but important pieces of the overall strategy. That’s one reason
we fought so hard for the park going in across the street. I believe that park is a tipping

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point — not only for downtown residents but for developers considering investing here.
This project will spur additional development. More investors will look at downtown. That
is why addressing vacant properties is critical. Finally, I would ask the Law Department to
review whether the Historic Commission can legally play a role in reviewing site plans for
this development. Since this is not an existing historic structure, I’m unsure whether that
would be legally permissible under the current framework. If not, I agree with many
residents who emphasized the value of community input during the RFQ process. Perhaps
another review panel could be established. I would like Law to examine those options.
Mr. Lolli

Mr. Lolli thanked everyone who came out tonight and voiced their comments. I’ve heard
some excellent suggestions. I am very confident that staff will continue to include
everyone who has been involved as this downtown effort moves forward. I know the City
Manager and her team, particularly in Economic Development and Community
Development, and that’s how they operate. Ashley is building a strong team, and they are
very receptive. Moving forward, this will continue to be a collaborative effort between city
staff, the developer, Joshua Smith and the Butler County Finance Authority, the Historic
Commission, the South Main Historic Group, and the citizens and downtown organizations
who have already played an important role. I am confident staff will ensure those groups
continue to have meaningful involvement, because that participation is critical. I also want
to address a concern that was raised tonight — making sure this project comes to fruition
and does not result in another vacant lot if a building is torn down. Over the last five years,
alongside Chief Snively, Chief Leugers, and my command staff, we undertook and
completed the construction of four fire stations. When we started that project, we saw it
through to completion. I am the type of leader who takes on projects and ensures they
reach fruition. When I was given a fire department in 2015 that was essentially decimated,
my command staff and I rebuilt it over the following four to five years. My point is this:
when we commit to something, we follow through. I can assure you that I, along with this
council, will see this project through because it is important. Now, I’ll be candid: I’ve long
considered myself an East End person. I strongly believe we must develop the East End.
But I also believe downtown must move forward. The developments on the East End will
likely generate significant financial resources that can then be reinvested into downtown.
As Council Member West said earlier, we are one city. All resources generated across the
city support the same community. Some have suggested that the East End will take care
of itself. That’s simply not the case. We are in competition with many communities along
the I-75 corridor. We must develop the entire city strategically. I am confident we can
advance both the East End and downtown simultaneously. You have my commitment that
over the next four years, before my term concludes, we will see real progress downtown.
Regarding the term sheet, I expect staff will receive feedback from Council and then work
with the City Manager, Economic Development, and Joshua Smith with the Butler County
Finance Authority to refine it. I am comfortable providing feedback to guide that process.
There is one item that is a deal-breaker for me: the proposed housing moratorium. I do
not see how we could implement that, and I would not support it. I would also like more
detailed information about the proposed $4 million commitment, specifically how that
would flow through the Butler County Finance Authority and how matching commitments
from other agencies would be structured. Finally, I want to address a comment made
tonight. It was stated that Downtown Middletown, Inc. (DMI) has not had the opportunity
to formally review the proposal. DMI has had two weeks. It concerns me that the time has
not been taken to review it. DMI is an essential partner in downtown’s success. I would
strongly encourage you to review the proposal promptly. We need you on the team. You
are a vital part of downtown’s future.

Mrs. Carter

Mrs. Carter commented that I’m listening and observing everybody's opinion. One of the
things that I disagree with on the term sheet is the City sponsored student loan grants for
downtown residents. I would like to see loan grants for everybody, not just downtown
residents.

Ms. Slamka

Ms. Slamka expressed her appreciation to everyone who came out. She said she truly
loved the idea of including residents, downtown groups, and historic organizations as part
of the conversation. She asked for more information about the moratorium.

Jim Cohen,
CMC Properties

Mr. Cohen explained that we had less than two weeks to prepare this presentation,
including the renderings, the site plan, and the downtown study. That is the timeframe in
which this entire proposal came together. I sincerely appreciate Mr. Lolli’s confidence and
support. I am a doer, and Joshua Smith is a doer as well. If we work together, I am
confident we can make this happen. I would like to address the concerns raised regarding
the term sheet. I’m not arguing against the concerns, I simply want to explain the
reasoning behind them, because they are important. Regarding the “moratorium”
language: that was likely not the best word choice. We are not suggesting that
development should not occur outside of downtown. Rather, we are asking Council not to
incentivize new housing outside of downtown during the period in which we are
intentionally focusing investment there. Downtown needs concentrated attention. If the
City’s vision is truly to revitalize downtown, then incentives should be concentrated

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downtown. Properties already zoned for multifamily outside downtown can absolutely still
be developed. We are only suggesting that no new rezonings occur outside of downtown
during this focused effort. Frankly, the only person that could negatively impact financially
is me. I have no issue building without competition, but I am inviting competition because
it advances the City’s goal. As for commercial tenant incentives, this is not a landlord
subsidy. Incentivizing downtown retailers helps create the right mix of businesses. We
could fill the building easily with national chains, but that is not our model. We focus on
bringing in strong local concepts and independent restaurateurs who want to be part of a
vibrant downtown. Many of them require fully built-out kitchens, and they are unlikely to
invest in a new building without that infrastructure. In many cities where we’ve worked,
municipalities have subsidized kitchen build-outs. The city owns the kitchen equipment,
and it remains with the space if a tenant leaves. That approach allows us, in partnership
with the City, to curate the right retail mix and accelerate downtown revitalization.
Regarding the tax abatement: without a long-term abatement, the project does not
financially pencil out. Our most recent development required a 22-year abatement.
Without a similar structure, this site is likely to remain tax dormant. A long-term abatement
is not a loss, it is an investment in future growth and long-term tax generation. On the
master lease component: the RFQ specifically referenced leveraging adjacent institutions.
A master lease of a select number of units by the City, Miami University, or local hospitals
would signal institutional confidence in the project. If major employers commit to leasing
units for employees, it demonstrates shared investment and helps secure financing —
which is not easy in downtown Middletown at this time. The student loan assistance
program is designed as a talent attraction initiative. It encourages young graduates with
significant student loan debt to move downtown, purchase homes, and build their lives
here. This would apply broadly within the downtown corridor, not just to our building. A
similar program in Hamilton proved highly effective in attracting new residents and
revitalizing the urban core. Without it, I’m not sure that growth would have occurred there.
Each of these incentives has been carefully considered and successfully implemented in
other communities. I want to close with this message: this development is not about
wiping the slate clean. It is about carrying the Manchester story forward in a building
designed to serve the next 100 years. Thank you to everyone who stayed, participated,
and shared input. This is just the beginning. There will be many more discussions ahead,
and your engagement is both valuable and appreciated.
RECESS

At 5:20 p.m., Ms. Slamka called for a brief recess.

RETURN

At 5:30 p.m., the meeting was called back to order and continued.

PRESENTATION

Mayor Slamka welcomed council member Paul Horn to receive the following
proclamation
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the Middletown City Council conducted a thorough and thoughtful selection
process to fill the two-year unexpired term on City Council, reviewing a pool of fifteen highly
qualified applicants, including four former candidates for City Council. From this
distinguished group, Paul Horn, a lifelong resident of Middletown and respected local
businessperson, was chosen for his integrity, commitment to the community, and deep
understanding of the needs and values of Middletown; and
WHEREAS, during his service on City Council, Mr. Horn has faithfully represented the city
as liaison to the Airport Commission and the Planning Commission, demonstrating an
unwavering dedication to the betterment of the city; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Horn’s background as an electrician, combined with his attention to detail,
has proven invaluable in his role as Councilmember. He has consistently shown himself to be
an independent, thoughtful, and pragmatic decision-maker—one who approaches issues with
realism, common sense, and a focus on solutions that are effective and achievable; and
WHEREAS, in his short time on Council, Mr. Horn has contributed to significant progress
on major community initiatives, including the new aquatic center, the community center
expansion and renovation, downtown redevelopment, the future Towne Mall project, the
securing of EV charger grants, and the advancement of new housing developments across the
city; and
WHEREAS, under the leadership of this Council, and with Mr. Horn’s support, the City lifted
outdated restrictions at the Middletown Event Center, improved zoning standards, and
strengthened City boards and commissions through the appointment of committed new
members; and
WHEREAS, City Council, with Mr. Horn’s active participation, prioritized public safety by
expanding services to include a remote police station, finalized the School Resource Officer
contract, and appointed new Fire and Police Chiefs. They also supported our local fine arts
programs, the Middletown High School marching band, and cherished community
institutions; and
WHEREAS, City Council further honored Middletown’s rich history with projects such as
the Bonnie Vance memorial bench dedication and the upcoming Helen Brown memorial
bench dedication and prepared the community for major upcoming events including the 2026
Air Show; and

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WHEREAS, the Council, exercising its charter authority, appointed City Manager Ashley
Combs, whose leadership has already contributed meaningfully to the City’s progress—a
decision Mr. Horn strongly supported in the interest of effective, forward-looking governance.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor of the City of Middletown, Ohio, on behalf
of the Middletown City Council do hereby recognize and honor Paul Horn for his exemplary
service, steadfast dedication, and meaningful contributions to the City of Middletown. His
leadership and commitment to the advancement of our community reflect the very best of
public service.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this proclamation is hereby issued in gratitude and recognition
on this 2nd day of December 2025.

Mr. Horn commented that it’s always good to have your name said and not recently died
or recently indicted. So, this is awesome. This is something that you treasure when
someone actually says nice things about you and we've done a lot of work in 24 months.
So just imagine what this next group can do in another 24 months and 48 months. Just
keep pushing forward. I truly believe Middletown has an opportunity and always has,
sometimes it just takes that push that we're going to do this and we might have the rafters
full of no you're not. Oh yes, we are because we're trying to do what's better for the future.
Well, it's still remembering the folks from the past. I will treasure this proclamation and it
will remind me of everything that we did and all the hard work that we put in. This is a fulltime job where you get paid part-time pay and that's okay because I've done my civic duty
and that's why I did this. There's two reasons why people do this. One, for their civic duty,
or two, if they took political science in college and they have to start someplace. This is
the beginning for some folks who make a career in government. To me, I wanted to serve
and finish the term, but I also wanted to make sure that I packed in as much as I could
and react with impact on things that are important. Interestingly, the majority of the things
that are listed, I won't use or I can't, but I wanted to fulfill an assignment that was given
and I'll mention that in my speech. Thank you, Mayor, so much for the proclamation. This
is great, this will be very much treasured. This is one of these rare air things that you get
to experience on city council and I greatly appreciate it.
CITIZEN COMMENTS
Marva Gaston

COUNCIL
COMMENTS
Mr. Lolli

Marva Gaston, 913 6th Avenue, Middletown, Ohio spoke. Once again, I’ve come to inquire
on the Middletown Paperboard cleanup site and the gravel material that was left behind.
It's been a couple of months since I've been here, but since the 6th of May, I have been
inquiring as to what your plan is and what's going to happen on that site. I've gotten very
little feedback and even some of the things that council has mentioned that they were
going to do, I have yet to see happen. So, I'm here looking for an update as to how things
are going to move forward. This is nothing that I'm going to just sit down on. I was told
these things take time and I feel as though I have given time and I'm still not getting
answers that I feel are adequate on how things are moving forward. So, I’m still interested
in what the council's plan is to remediate this situation. I'd also like to come before council
on behalf of a friend and former resident of this town. His name was Richard Whartonberg
who recently lost his life as one of the pilots on the horrific UPS crash in Kentucky on
November 4th of this year. I did not see or hear where the city of Middletown itself actually
acknowledged him. I saw on the news that it was noted that he was a former resident of
Middletown, but he was a longtime resident here of the city. I think that it would be nice
to see the city recognize him, especially at the intensity of the situation as to how he lost
his life. That’s history in itself, it's UPS history and as far as I'm concerned, that's
Middletown history. I knew Rich very well. I served with him at Wright Patterson Air Force
Base in 445th Airlift Wing. One of the nicest guys you'd ever want to meet. It saddens me
to know that he lost his life in the manner that he did. I didn't know if anyone from council
or the city of Middletown reached out to his family to say anything or do anything. If you
have not, I request that you do because I think it's important for us to remember the
residents that are here now, but also the ones that have gone on. He was a longtime
resident of Middletown and it's a devastating way to lose your life. I think that it would be
very nice for the city of Middletown to do something to recognize that he was a 22-year
veteran of the United States Air Force Reserve, retired. He gave his life serving both
military and civilian. And I think it'd be very nice for the city of Middletown to do something
to recognize him. Thank you.

Mr. Lolli commented I hope everybody had a safe and happy Thanksgiving. If you're like
me, you ate way too much Thursday and then you got to eat the cold turkey sandwiches
with mayonnaise the next day. My favorite. I hope everybody's Thanksgiving was great
with family and friends. I’d like to thank Scott Tadych and the road crews today. I think
they did a fantastic job. I really did think the roads were good. By midday, most of all the
roads were clear, side roads and everything. Thank you very much, we appreciate it.
Congratulations to Chief Wright and the firefighters, the Middletown Fire Department is
now occupying all four fire stations. That's a good thing, like I talked about earlier in the
town hall, it's awesome when you see a project that was started way back in 2015-2016.
That actually goes back to the late 90s, but we really started getting it off the ground in

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2015 - 2016 to build new fire stations, and a lot of other communities told us we were
absolutely crazy to try to build four at once, but we did it. We did it and we're in them. The
buildings are incredibly awesome. If you haven't had an opportunity to go see those
stations, you should because they are awesome. Chief Wright, congratulations and I hope
you guys enjoy it because you certainly deserve it because you have probably, if not the
best, one of the best fire departments around. I mean, if your house catches on fire, you
want the Middletown Fire Department to be the ones there to put it out. If you're having a
heart attack, you want the Middletown Firefighter Paramedics to be there. They're a gold
standard in acute coronary syndrome by the American Heart Association and Premier
Hospital for a reason, same if you're having a stroke. These guys have gotten what they
deserve and they're now in environments that can only enhance that. Council member
Horn, Paul, thank you for everything you've done for me while I was city manager, and now
as a city council member, I appreciate everything you've done and all the help you've given
me. Good luck and don't be a stranger.
Mrs. Carter

Mrs. Carter thanked the community for participating in the town hall meeting. I would like
to say Mr. Cohen was saying that we're concentrating on the east end and the only thing
we got completed on the east end is the fire stations. So, we were not concentrating on
the east end. We have completed several things on the south end, the north end, and the
west end. So, I'd like for us to say that refresh Middletown. We keep saying refresh
downtown. Let's say refresh Middletown. We need to repair and refresh everything in the
city and not just focus on one thing, one area. I went into the community center last week
that we just completed. Really nice community center. Space for the children, space for
their parents, and it's a great job that they completed. They're working now on Douglas
Park and the splash pad that had been neglected for a while. And so we're working on
that. So, let's say refresh Middletown. Let's get a new mindset because when we say
refresh east end and refresh downtown the community is asking me what is that? What
does that mean? And I had to say I don't know what it means. I lived in California for 25
years. I returned here. I never knew before I left about a south end and an east end. And
people would say that to me and I say, "Well, where's South end? Where's East End?" And
I was born and raised here. Middletown, that's the key word, Middletown. I want to thank
Paul also for his knowledge and he helped me with a lot of things I didn't understand and
I'm truly going to miss him. I want to shout out to the Middletown Middies. They did an
excellent job and I really appreciate the staff that helped our young men realize they are
somebody and they could do great work with people pushing them and saying you are
somebody. I'd like to thank them and that's all I have.

Mr. West

Mr. West commented I hope everybody had a great Thanksgiving. Chief Wright,
congratulations on taking the keys to all the fire stations. I stopped in at headquarters a
couple of Saturdays ago and the firefighters gave me a tour of the equipment and
facilities. They really take pride in maintaining their trucks, equipment, and new living
quarters. I appreciate the community for supporting the funding and construction of the
city’s new fire stations. I echo the comments made by Mrs. Carter regarding the successful
season of the Middletown High School Middies football team. What they did for the city
you can't really put into words unless you experienced it yourself. I reached out to the city
manager and the school superintendent to propose collaboration on a community parade
to celebrate the team, its coaches, and the families who supported the players throughout
their development. I was really impressed with the coaching staff for their composure and
mentorship of the athletes, and I congratulate the team on recent Division I college
commitments. Mr. Horn congratulations and thank you for your service and commitment
through participation in council meetings and various boards and commissions. I really
have appreciated your knowledge, dedication, and willingness to stand firm in your
beliefs, and your contributions particularly in matters related to the Planning Commission.
I want to comment about the timeline on the Middletown Paperboard cleanup site. The
soil remediation and grading plans for the site have been received and approved. The
city’s Public Works Department will prepare the bid packet in December and release the
project for bidding. Bids are expected to be due in January, with the goal of executing a
contract for the remediation project between February and March.

Mr. Horn

Mr. Horn encouraged residents to attend council meetings in person when they feel
passionate about an issue. I believe that direct participation allows council members to
hear residents’ concerns firsthand and helps strengthen communication between the
community and its local government. I want to express my appreciation to several
individuals who have supported me throughout my service. I want to thank my parents,
Pete and Sandy Horn, for raising me in Middletown and instilling in me a strong sense of
community. I also want to thank Michael Combs, Linda Kennedy, and Zach Ferrell for their
support and advice during my time on council. In addition, I expressed appreciation to City
Manager Ashley Combs and her administrative team for their leadership and dedication
to our city. I encouraged the city to continue focusing on timely project execution and to
maintain a strong sense of urgency in development efforts so that Middletown can remain
competitive with surrounding communities. I also appreciate the work of the Law Director
and legal staff and encourage careful review of contracts and development agreements

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to ensure the city’s interests are well protected. I want to thank my fellow council
members for their service and I want to encourage continued collaboration and open
discussion of agenda items during meetings, consistent with the transparency our
residents expect from their local government. As I reflect on my two years of service, I
want to note that I have been a Middletown business owner for 14 years and that I plan
to remain actively involved in the community by serving on boards and supporting local
initiatives. One of the experiences I especially appreciated during my time on council was
participating in ceremonial pinning events recognizing new first responders in our police
and fire departments. I also want to reiterate my belief in planning for the city’s long-term
future, something I have previously described as planning for the “10-year-old, 20-yearold, and 30-year-old.” For me, that means preparing young residents for future workforce
opportunities, supporting individuals entering adulthood as they decide where to live and
work, and ensuring that Middletown remains an attractive place for families who want to
establish long-term roots. Workforce development programs, particularly those in
partnership with local schools and community organizations, are an important part of that
effort. I want to conclud my remarks by highlighting five elements that I believe contribute
to a successful community: health and wellness, education, resources for aging adults, a
strong sense of community, and financial stability. Thank you to the council and city staff
for the opportunity to serve and I am optimistic about Middletown’s future.
Ms. Slamka

Ms. Slamka thanked Paul Horn for his service to the community. I have appreciated the
opportunity to work with him during his time on council. The City of Middletown has
extended the deadline for the Development Code Update online survey and encouraged
community members in Middletown to participate and share feedback on the city’s
development code and possible improvements. Ms. Slamka highlighted several upcoming
holiday and community events taking place throughout the city, including activities
associated with Very Merry Middletown and Light Up Middletown, as well as other
seasonal events occurring downtown. Ms. Slamka also recognized Giving Tuesday and
encouraged residents to support local nonprofit organizations and participate in acts of
generosity within the community. Ms. Slamka promoted a number of local arts,
entertainment, and cultural events, including First Friday at the Pendleton Art Center, popup markets hosted by Crooked Dog Comics, performances by the Performing Arts
Academy, and programming at the Sorg Opera House and the Middletown Art Center. Ms.
Slamka also highlighted additional community events, including a holiday event hosted
by the Butler County Warbirds at the Middletown Regional Airport, the annual Santa Run,
the Holidays in the Highlands Home Tour, and a charitable Blue Christmas concert
benefiting the Hope House Women and Children’s Center. Ms. Slamka encouraged
residents to attend the upcoming ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Robert “Sonny” Hill
Community Center. As a reminder, the city of Middletown accepts applications for our
boards and commissions throughout the year. So, if there is something that you have an
interest in and you wish to give back to your city in this way, please do submit your
application. To learn more please visit the city's website at cityofmiddletown.org. Lastly
and as always, there are many ways to get involved with your community and give back.
Join a board or committee, run for office, apply for a job with the city, volunteer at the
hospital, pick up trash in your neighborhood or park, plant a garden in your yard, smile at
a neighbor, find joy and satisfaction for a job well done in whatever work you do or just
have a positive and giving attitude. Find something that you can do regularly and give
back. We are all connected and we are all in this together. The care of our city is an
adventure in which we all get to share.

CITY MANAGER
REPORTS

City Manager Combs thanked Councilman Horn for his service. I've enjoyed serving with
you, our conversations and learning from you over these last two years and I look forward
to continuing that work with you and the council and the future council members.
City Manager Combs welcomed David Hood with Abilities First. Mr. Hood thanked council
and city staff for their support and recognized the city’s road crews for their work during
winter weather conditions. He reviewed the organization’s previous request for financial
assistance related to program growth at Abilities First, noting significant increases in
enrollment in the organization’s Autism Learning Center and Early Childhood Learning
Center since 2022. Mr. Hood explained that these increases created a funding gap of
approximately $250,000.00, of which $73,000.00 remained after fundraising efforts. Mr.
Hood expressed appreciation to council for unanimously approving funding to cover the
remaining gap, emphasizing the positive impact the support has had on children and
families served by the organization. He shared feedback from staff and families
describing how the funding has supported classroom resources, communication devices,
adaptive equipment, and therapeutic services for students. He also presented handmade
thank-you cards created by children in the program and posed with council members for
a commemorative photo recognizing the contribution.
Council members expressed appreciation for the work of Abilities First and commended
the organization’s staff and board for their dedication to serving children and families in
the community.

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City Manager Combs also provided an update regarding the city’s water billing process.
She reported that the city will not apply the previously announced 25 percent usage
adjustment on the next billing cycle. Additionally, due to the holiday season, no estimated
water bills will be issued in December and no water service shutoffs will occur during that
month. The city plans to resume regular water billing with actual meter readings beginning
in January 2026. She noted that while the first bill may be larger due to the gap in recent
billing cycles, the city is developing a grace period or payment plan to allow residents to
pay balances over several months. Further details will be provided in the coming weeks.
CONSENT AGENDA

Receive and file the Library Board of Trustees minutes of June 18, August 20, September
17 and September 26, 2025
Confirm the conditional appointment of Ken Brown to the position of Communications
Manager in the City Manager’s Department, Communications Division.
Mr. Lolli moved to approve the issues and actions listed on the Consent Agenda. Mrs.
Carter seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. West, Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs.
Carter.

LEGISLATION
Ord. No. O2025-65
Extend Contract
Summit Food
Service
Jail Food

Ord. No. O2025-66
Apply for Ohio
Airport Improvement
Program Grant

Ordinance No. O2025-65, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing an
extension of the contract with CBM Managed Services now known as Summit Food
Service for jail food service in 2025 and declaring an emergency was read.
Mr. Horn moved to approve Ordinance No. O2025-65, an ordinance establishing a
procedure for and authorizing an extension of the contract with CBM Managed Services
now known as Summit Food Service for jail food service in 2025 and declaring an
emergency. Mr. West seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli,
Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.
Ordinance No. O2025-66, an ordinance authorizing the city manager to apply for an Ohio
Airport Improvement Program Grant for state fiscal year 2026 from the Ohio Department
of Transportation, Office of Aviation and declaring an emergency was read.
There was discussion for and against this measure.
Arguments FOR
• Diversifies airport hangar inventory.
• Creates additional rentable space.
• Could increase jet traffic and fuel sales.
• May help justify maintaining runway length for future FAA funding.
• Hangar is included in the 2022 Airport Master Plan.
• Uses only ½ acre of approximately 9 available acres.
Arguments AGAINST
• Concern it could limit future economic development opportunities.
• Land may be needed for advanced air mobility, drone technology, or aviation
manufacturing.
• No marketing plan yet to attract jet tenants.
• Some questioned ROI since it houses only two jets.
• Council strategic planning session upcoming to determine long-term airport
vision.
Mr. Horn moved to approve Ordinance No. O2025-66, an ordinance authorizing the city
manager to apply for an Ohio Airport Improvement Program Grant for state fiscal year
2026 from the Ohio Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation and declaring an
emergency. Ms. Slamka seconded. Motion failed to carry. Ayes: Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka.
Nays: Mr. Lolli, Mr. West. Abstain: Mrs. Carter.

Ord. No. O2025-67
2026 PBO

Ordinance No. O2025-67, an ordinance establishing the pay ranges, pay policy and
benefits for various salaried and hourly classifications within the service of the city and
declaring an emergency was read.
Mr. Horn moved to approve Ordinance No. O2025-67, an ordinance establishing the pay
ranges, pay policy and benefits for various salaried and hourly classifications within the
service of the city and declaring an emergency. Mr. West seconded. Motion carried. Ayes:
Mr. West, Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka, Mrs. Carter. Nays: Mr. Lolli.

Ord. No. O2025-68
2026 Health PBO

Ordinance No. O2025-68, an ordinance establishing the pay ranges and certain benefits
for employee classifications in the Middletown Department of Health and Environment
and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Horn moved to approve Ordinance No. O2025-68, an ordinance establishing the pay
ranges and certain benefits for employee classifications in the Middletown Department

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MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

December 2, 2025

of Health and Environment and declaring an emergency. Ms. Slamka seconded. Motion
carried. Ayes: Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West. Nays: Mr. Lolli.
Res. No. R2025-35
Amend
Appropriations
General Fund
BWC Grant
Division of Fire

Resolution No. R2025-35, 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, 2025, and declaring an
emergency was read. (General Fund) (BWC Grant to Division of Fire)

Res. No. R2025-36
Amend
Appropriations
Year End –
Various Funds

Resolution No. R2025-36, 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, 2025, and declaring an
emergency was read. (Year End – Various Funds)

Mr. Lolli moved to approve Resolution No. R2025-35, 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, 2025,
and declaring an emergency. (General Fund) (BWC Grant to Division of Fire) Mr. West
seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Horn.

Mr. West moved to approve Resolution No. R2025-36, a resolution to make
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, 2025,
and declaring an emergency. (Year End – Various Funds) Mr. Horn seconded. Motion
carried. Ayes: Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka.
RECESS

At 7:02 p.m., Ms. Slamka called for a brief recess.

RETURN

At 7:12 p.m., the meeting was called back to order and continued.

Res. No. R2025-37
Annual Budget 2026

Resolution No. R2025-37, a resolution to make 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, and declaring an emergency. (Annual Budget
– 2026)
Mr. West moved to approve Resolution No. R2025-37, a resolution to make
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,
and declaring an emergency. (Annual Budget – 2026) Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried.
Ayes: Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli.

Res. No. R2025-38
Apply for Grant With
ODOT Office of
Aviation

Resolution No. R2025-38, a resolution authorizing the city manager to apply for a grant
and enter into a grant agreement with the Ohio Department of Transportation, Office of
Aviation to fund the City’s 5% match for the JETS roof replacement project and declaring
an emergency was read.
Mr. West moved to approve Resolution No. R2025-38, a resolution authorizing the city
manager to apply for a grant and enter into a grant agreement with the Ohio Department
of Transportation, Office of Aviation to fund the City’s 5% match for the JETS roof
replacement project and declaring an emergency. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried.
Ayes: Mr. West, Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka, Mrs. Carter, Mr. Lolli.

Ord. No. O2025-69
Extend Contract with
Kemira Water
Solutions, Inc.

Ordinance No. O2025-69, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing the
extension of a contract with Kemira Water Solutions, Inc. for the purchase of ferric sulfate
at the Water Reclamation Facility and declaring an emergency was read with no action
requested until December 16, 2025.

Ord. No. O2025-70
Contract with
Polydyne

Ord. No. O2025-71
Authorize Additional
Funds
for 2025 Grounds
Maintenance
Contracts

Ordinance No. O2025-71, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing
additional funds for the 2025 contracts for grounds maintenance and declaring an
emergency was read with no action requested until December 16, 2025.

Ord. No. O2025-72
Extend Nuisance
Abatement
Contracts

Ordinance No. O2025-72, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing the
extension of nuisance abatement contracts for 2026 and declaring an emergency was
read with no action requested until December 16, 2025.

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MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

December 2, 2025

Res. No. R2025-39
Request Advances

UNFINISHED
BUSINESS

Law Director Ewing took a straw poll of City Council asking, “Proceed with negotiations
and return with Development Agreement with CMC Properties?” Ayes: Mr. Lolli, Mrs.
Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka.
Law Director Ewing took a straw poll of City Council asking, “Proceed with the collection
of bids and return for First National Bank roof repairs?” It was clarified that this is just to
find out how much it costs, not to spend the money. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Horn, Mr.
West, Mrs. Carter, Mr. Lolli.

NEW BUSINESS

City Council thanked Chief Nelson for the Christmas ornaments.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

At 7:30 p.m., Mr. West 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: Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka,
Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.

RETURN

At 7:53 p.m., Mrs. Carter moved to return to open session. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion
carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Horn.

ADJOURN

At 7:53 p.m., the meeting was declared adjourned until the regular meeting on
December 16, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.

______________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor
Attest: ___________________________

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MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

December 16, 2025

At 5:30 p.m., Mayor Slamka called the regular City Council meeting to order in Council
Chambers, Lower Level of the City Building.
ROLL CALL

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

EXCUSE MR. HORN

Mr. West moved to excuse Mr. Horn’s absence. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried. Ayes:
Mr. West, Ms. Slamka, Mrs. Carter, Mr. Lolli.

CITIZEN COMMENTS
Larri Silas

Larri Silas, 1211 Elm Street spoke. I am here today to address the issue of roads not being
properly plowed after the recent snowfall, particularly the main roads and residential
streets. This is not the first time road maintenance has been subpar during snow events.
Like many others, I work weekend shifts, which means I, along with many others, must
drive on Saturdays and Sundays regardless of weather conditions to get to our places of
employment. We must also consider younger, less experienced drivers and elderly drivers,
who may have slower reaction times or experience anxiety on icy roads. No one, at any
age, should have to drive on poorly maintained, snow- or ice-covered roads. What makes
this especially frustrating is that the snowfall was forecasted and reported in the news for
multiple days before it occurred. Yet, based on the condition of the roads, one would
assume the snow was a complete surprise. I would like to know why the roads were not
treated in a way that would make travel safe, as today is three days after the snow, and
most roads are now smooth and clear.

COUNCIL
COMMENTS
Mr. Lolli

Mr. Lolli commented Larri, thank you for your comments, but I’m going to respectfully
disagree with you. First of all, I went out during the storm, and the crews did a fantastic
job. It’s important to note that the temperature was below zero, and some of the road
treatment chemicals don’t work at those temperatures. If someone can’t safely drive
under those conditions, the safest choice is simply not to drive. Again, a big shout-out to
our public works road crews. They worked long hours in persistent winter storm conditions,
showing dedication to the people of Middletown and our visitors. Many people have
complimented their efforts. While no road was perfect, continuing inclement weather
makes it challenging for chemicals and salt to be fully effective. Safety depends on drivers
being cautious and understanding these limitations. I also want to thank City Manager
Combs and staff for the employee Christmas party—it was incredible. Attendance was the
best I’ve seen in my 35 years with the city, especially with retirees joining in. A big thank
you to Ashley and the staff at the Middletown Event Center for a job well done. Additionally,
the drive downtown on Central Avenue looks amazing with the lights and decorations from
the Re-Imagine Middletown project. Light Up Middletown is also fantastic, and thanks to
the “grandpa gang” for making Middletown look so special. To all Middletown city
employees, 2025 was a tough year, and I appreciate your hard work. Being a city employee
is challenging—you’re constantly under scrutiny—but you’ve done a wonderful job, Ashley,
and please pass my thanks to the staff. Finally, I want to wish Middletown a very Merry
Christmas and a Happy New Year. Please be safe and enjoy a healthy holiday season.

Mrs. Carter

Mrs. Carter congratulated the two new council members and welcomed them to City
Council.

Mr. West

Ms. Slamka

Mr. West commented last weekend, I was able to attend the Wreaths Across America
ceremony at Woodside, and it was wonderful. The snow was just starting to fall, and I’d
like to thank the volunteers and everyone who came out to help with the event. I’m looking
forward to it again next year. Secondly, on Sunday evening, I attended the Middletown
football end-of-season banquet. I had the chance to speak with many of the families and
coaching staff, and it was great to see the culture Coach Jones is building. I want to thank
them for inviting me and giving me the opportunity to say a few words and show
appreciation from our community for what was truly a historic season. Finally, I want to
wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Please be safe and enjoy the
holiday season.
Ms. Slamka recognized Paul Horn for his two years of service. The Middletown
Development Code online survey received 252 responses, with the next public
engagement opportunity scheduled for the Planning Commission Study Session #2 on
January 22. Community events continue throughout December, including Reimagine
Middletown and Light Up Middletown festivities, ribbon cuttings at the Robert Sunny Hill
Junior Community Center and Boordan Studios’ John Ross Building Luxury Loft, Pajama

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MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

December 16, 2025

Story Time with Santa, Star Wars Trivia at New Ales Brewing, Sorg Opera House holiday
film screenings, the Blitzen Cookie & Cocktail Walk, Crooked Dog Comics pop-up
Saturdays, and horse-drawn carriage rides, concluding with Light Up Middletown’s closing
night on December 31 at Smith Park. As a reminder, the city of Middletown accepts
applications for our boards and commissions throughout the year. So, if there is something
that you have an interest in and you wish to give back to your city in this way, please do
submit your application. To learn more please visit the city's website at
cityofmiddletown.org. Lastly and as always, there are many ways to get involved with your
community and give back. Join a board or committee, run for office, apply for a job with
the city, volunteer at the hospital, pick up trash in your neighborhood or park, plant a
garden in your yard, smile at a neighbor, find joy and satisfaction for a job well done in
whatever work you do or just have a positive and giving attitude. Find something that you
can do regularly and give back. We are all connected and we are all in this together. The
care of our city is an adventure in which we all get to share.
CITY MANAGER
REPORTS

City Manager Combs welcomed Community Building Institute Executive Verlina Stewart to
the podium. Verlina Stewart provided an update to council and announced her upcoming
retirement after nearly 17 years of service since the organization’s founding in 2009.
Stewart introduced Marie Edwards as the new executive director and expressed
appreciation for the City’s long-standing partnership and support. She reported that CBI
served more than 2,500 individuals this year through youth, family, and community
programs at the Robert Sunny Hill Community Center, including after-school programs,
summer camps, workforce development opportunities, early childhood services, and adult
education and recreation. The organization operates with approximately nine full-time and
eight part-time staff and a $1.5 million budget supported by multiple public and private
funding sources, and has received clean financial audits in recent years. Stewart
highlighted outcomes such as youth leadership training, work experiences for students,
meal distribution, family support services, and community partnerships. Council members
expressed appreciation for Stewart’s leadership and contributions to the community,
congratulated Edwards on her new role, and discussed operational items related to the
renovated community center facility, including the addition of a concession sink needed
for food service licensing.

CONSENT AGENDA

Receive and file the following board and commission minutes:
Airport Commission – April 21 and July 21, 2025
Architectural Review Board – June 24, 2025
Planning Commission – September 10, 2025
Confirm the appointment of Devra Wells to the position of Field Inspector in the Division
of Building Inspection, Community and Economic Development Department.
To confirm the following title changes only in accordance with Ordinance No. O2025-67
effective January 1, 2026: Ashley Bretland – General Counsel to Assistant Law
Director Zachary Barnhart – General Counsel to Assistant Law Director
Approve and accept the final plat for The Villas at Emerald Enclave planned development.
Mr. West moved to approve the issues and actions listed on the Consent Agenda. Mrs.
Carter seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.

MOTION AGENDA
STOP LOSS
COVERAGE 2026

To authorize the renewal of a contract with Optum Insurance for Stop Loss Coverage in
2026.
Mr. Lolli moved to authorize the renewal of a contract with Optum Insurance for Stop Loss
Coverage in 2026. Mr. West seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs.
Carter, Mr. West.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

At 6:03 p.m., Mr. West moved to adjourn to executive session under the authority of O.R.C.
121.22 (G) (6) Details relative to the security arrangements and emergency response
protocols for a public body or a public office, if disclosure of the matters discussed could
reasonably be expected to jeopardize the security of the public body or public office. Mr.
Lolli seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. West, Ms. Slamka, Mrs. Carter, Mr. Lolli.

RETURN

At 6:45 p.m., Mr. West moved to return to open session. Mrs. Carter seconded. Motion
carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.

LEGISLATION
Ord. No. O2025-69
Extend Contract with
Kemira Water
Solutions, Inc.

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MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

December 16, 2025

Mr. West moved to approve Ordinance No. O2025-69, an ordinance establishing a
procedure for and authorizing the extension of a contract with Kemira Water Solutions,
Inc. for the purchase of ferric sulfate at the Water Reclamation Facility and declaring an
emergency. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter,
Mr. West.
Ord. No. O2025-70
Contract with
Polydyne

Ordinance No. O2025-70, 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 2026 and declaring an emergency was read.
Mr. Lolli moved to approve Ordinance No. O2025-70, 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 2026 and declaring an emergency.
Mr. West seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Ms. Slamka.

Ord. No. O2025-71
Authorize Additional
Funds
for 2025 Grounds
Maintenance
Contracts

Ordinance No. O2025-71, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing
additional funds for the 2025 contracts for grounds maintenance and declaring an
emergency was read.

Ord. No. O2025-72
Extend Nuisance
Abatement
Contracts

Ordinance No. O2025-72, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing the
extension of nuisance abatement contracts for 2026 and declaring an emergency was
read.

Mr. Lolli moved to approve Ordinance No. O2025-71, an ordinance establishing a
procedure for and authorizing additional funds for the 2025 contracts for grounds
maintenance and declaring an emergency. Mr. West seconded. Motion carried. Ayes:
Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli.

Mr. West moved to approve Ordinance No. O2025-72, an ordinance establishing a
procedure for and authorizing the extension of nuisance abatement contracts for 2026
and declaring an emergency. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. West, Ms.
Slamka, Mrs. Carter, Mr. Lolli.
Ord. No. O2025-73
Animal Friends
Contract

Ordinance No. O2025-73, an ordinance establishing a procedure for and authorizing a
contract with Animal Friends Humane Society for services related to stray and seized
animals within the City of Middletown and declaring an emergency was read.
Mr. West moved to approve Ordinance No. O2025-73, an ordinance establishing a
procedure for and authorizing a contract with Animal Friends Humane Society for
services related to stray and seized animals within the City of Middletown and declaring
an emergency. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs.
Carter, Mr. West.

Ord. No. O2025-74
Vacating Easements
621-675 North
University Blvd.

Ordinance No. O2025-74, an ordinance vacating various easements granted to the City
of Middletown on a portion of city lots 12903, 12904 and 12905 also known as also
known as 621 – 675 North University Boulevard and declaring an emergency was read.
Mr. West moved to approve Ordinance No. O2025-74, an ordinance vacating various
easements granted to the City of Middletown on a portion of city lots 12903, 12904 and
12905 also known as also known as 621 – 675 North University Boulevard and
declaring an emergency. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli,
Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.

Res. No. R2025-39
Request Advances

Resolution No. R2025-39, a resolution requesting the Auditor of Butler County to
advance to the Treasurer of the City of Middletown, Ohio, taxes assessed and collected
for and on behalf of the City of Middletown, Ohio and declaring an emergency was read.
Mr. West moved to approve Resolution No. R2025-39, a resolution requesting the
Auditor of Butler County to advance to the Treasurer of the City of Middletown, Ohio,
taxes assessed and collected for and on behalf of the City of Middletown, Ohio and
declaring an emergency. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. West, Ms. Slamka,
Mrs. Carter, Mr. Lolli.

Res. No. R2025-40
Amend
Appropriations
Year-End- Various
Funds

Resolution No. R2025-40, 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, 2025 and declaring an
emergency was read. (Year End – Various Funds)

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MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

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Mr. Lolli moved to approve Resolution No. R2025-40, 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, 2025
and declaring an emergency. (Year End – Various Funds) Mr. West seconded. Motion
carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.
Res. No. R2025-41
Authorize Transfers
Prior Year Advances

Resolution No. R2025-41, a resolution authorizing transfers from the Central Avenue
Sidewalk Curb & Gutter Fund, 2019 Sidewalk Curb & Gutter Fund, 2020 Sidewalk Curb
& Gutter Fund, 2021 Sidewalk Curb & Gutter Fund and 2022 Sidewalk Curb & Gutter
Fund to the General Fund for repayment of prior year advances, and declaring an
emergency was read.
Mr. West moved to approve Resolution No. R2025-41, a resolution authorizing transfers
from the Central Avenue Sidewalk Curb & Gutter Fund, 2019 Sidewalk Curb & Gutter
Fund, 2020 Sidewalk Curb & Gutter Fund, 2021 Sidewalk Curb & Gutter Fund and 2022
Sidewalk Curb & Gutter Fund to the General Fund for repayment of prior year advances,
and declaring an emergency. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr.
Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.

Res. No. R2025-42
Resolution No. R2025-42, a resolution authorizing a transfer of funds subject to
Solid Waste Disposal repayment from the General Fund to the Solid Waste Disposal Fund and the Transit Fund
And Transit Fund
and declaring an emergency was read.
Mr. Lolli moved to approve Resolution No. R2025-42, a resolution authorizing a transfer
of funds subject to repayment from the General Fund to the Solid Waste Disposal Fund
and the Transit Fund and declaring an emergency. Mr. West seconded. Motion carried.
Ayes: Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Ms. Slamka.
Res. No. R2025-43
Amend
Appropriations
Police Grant FundsOneOhio Recovery
Foundation Grant

Resolution No. R2025-43, 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 and declaring an
emergency was read. (Police Grant Fund – OneOhio Recovery Foundation Grant)

Res. No. R2025-44
Adopt and Approve
Cyber Security
Program

Resolution No. R2025-44, a resolution to adopt and approve the cybersecurity program
and declaring an emergency was read.

Ord. No. O2025-75
Codified Ordinance
Supplement S-17

Ordinance No. O2025-75, an ordinance enacting and adopting the 2025 supplement (S17) to the codified ordinances of the City of Middletown, Ohio was read for the first time.

UNFINISHED
BUSINESS

Ms. Slamka reminded council that we will be deciding boards and commission liaisons at
the first meeting January so please review your schedules and current liaison
appointments for the coming year.

NEW BUSINESS

Ms. Slamka asked the city manager for an update on the infill housing project sometime
in January.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

At 7:05 p.m., Mr. West 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

Mr. West moved to approve Resolution No. R2025-43, 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
and declaring an emergency. (Police Grant Fund – OneOhio Recovery Foundation Grant)
Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli.

Mr. West moved to approve Resolution No. R2025-44, a resolution to adopt and approve
the cybersecurity program and declaring an emergency. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion
carried. Ayes: Mr. West, Ms. Slamka, Mrs. Carter, Mr. Lolli.

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MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

December 16, 2025

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: Mr. Horn, Ms. Slamka,
Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.
RETURN

At 8:09 p.m., Mr. West moved to return to open session. Mrs. Carter seconded. Motion
carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.

ADJOURN

At 8:09 p.m., the meeting was declared adjourned until the special meeting on
December 29, 2025 at 2 p.m. in Council Chambers.

______________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor
Attest: ___________________________

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MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

February 20-21, 2026

At 9:00 a.m., on Friday, February 20, 2026 the City of Middletown Strategic Plan- City
Council Retreat at Hueston Woods Lodge & Conference Center was called to order with the
following City Council Members present: J. Carter, S. West, J. Mulligan, E. Slamka, P. Lolli.
Envision Group, LLC facilitated the discussion utilizing the nominal group technique for each
of the 2022 Comprehensive Plan (Destination Middletown) Themes.
During the meeting, Council members shared all ideas relative to the theme, ranked the top
priorities from the ideas that were shared, and then they discussed the results. Below is a
summary.

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ADJOURN

February 20-21, 2026

At 2:30 p.m., on Saturday, February 21, 2026, the meeting was declared adjourned until
the regular meeting on March 3, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.

______________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor

Attest: ___________________________

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MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

March 3, 2026

At 5:30 p.m., Mayor Slamka called the regular City Council meeting to order in Council
Chambers, Lower Level of the City Building.
ROLL CALL

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

PUBLIC HEARING

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At 5:31 p.m., Law Director Alex Ewing swore in everyone who intended to speak at the public
hearing. City Planner Claire Fetters-Binegar explained that this was a request by
Jonathan Wocher of McBride Dale Clarion on behalf of CASTO to amend the zoning map for
parcels Q6542052000018 and Q6542055000012 from R-4P: Planned Development
District to B-2: Community Business District. The subject parcels, commonly known 1301 S.
Marshall Road, equate to a total of 5.4316 acres. The proposed map amendment will
require approval by Middletown City Council following the Planning Commission’s
recommendation on the application per Chapter 1226.03 of the Middletown Development
Code. Butler County Auditor identifies there to be one structure on the parcel with the street
address of 1301 S. Marshall Road (parcel Q6542052000018). The structure was built in
1974 and has a total of 20,430 square feet of gross building area. The other parcel, parcel
Q6542055000012, has remained undeveloped. The Auditor’s website does not have
record of any property transfers for the two subject parcels. The subject parcels are currently
zoned R-4P: Planned Development District. The purpose of the Planned Development
District is to provide an opportunity for creative and flexible land development where a base
zoning district will not accommodate the proposed development but where such
development will further the purpose of this code and the goals and policies of the master
plan. The Planned Development District is designed to allow for deviations from certain
zoning standards that would otherwise apply if not contrary to the general spirit and intent
of this code. City permit records show the subject property has been in use as a Masonic
Temple since 1974. Additional research of the subject parcels has found a number of
resolutions and ordinances that have changed the subject parcels’ zoning district as well as
established a planned use modification plan. The pertinent zoning history for the presentday zoning of the parcels found by City staff is as follows:
Resolution 4072, Adopted May 18, 1971: The resolution approved a modified use plan for
a private club on lots 13262 and 13118. Following approval of Resolution 4072, City
Planning Commission approved the final development plan in February 1974. A Certificate
of Zoning Compliance was approved by the City’s Zoning Administrator following Planning
Commission’s approval.
Surrounding Property Zoning Designations/Uses:
North: R-3 Medium-Density Residential District (existing residences and religious place of
worship)
East: R-3 Medium-Density Residential District (existing residences)
South: O-1P Planned Development District (existing commercial uses and school)
West: B-2 Community Business District (existing commercial uses)
In the review of the application submitted as compared to the City’s adopted plans and
regulations, staff finds the following:
Middletown Development Code
Chapter 1204.07 – Zoning District Regulations
The applicant requests to rezone the subject parcels “to allow redevelopment of the
property for commercial uses – 2 to 3 commercial lots are anticipated.” The map
amendment request aligns with the purpose statement of the B-2 zoning district.
Destination Middletown, 2022 Comprehensive Plan
Future Land Use Map
The future land use map is a guide for map amendments. The subject parcels are located
within the Neighborhood Mixed Use future land use category explained as primarily smallscale commercial, office, medical, and service uses that cater to the surrounding residential
neighborhoods with secondary uses that include residential.
In the review of the application submitted as compared to the City’s adopted plans and
regulations, staff finds the following:
Destination Middletown, 2022 Comprehensive Plan
Development Opportunities Map
The subject parcel is also located in the City’s Crossroads Development Opportunity Area.
PUBLIC NOTICE REQUIREMENT
No comments have been received to date via phone or email.
OTHER DEPARTMENT COMMENTS:
Public Works Department & Engineering Division
Future redevelopment may be subject to traffic impact studies.
Full access to the redeveloped site will only be permitted from Marshall Road; right-in, rightout could be permitted from Roosevelt Boulevard. No access will be permitted from Grand
Avenue.
Community & Economic Development Department

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March 3, 2026

The redevelopment of this site will add to the economic activity in the area, and the map
amendment is a strong first step in achieving future commercial sites.
The Planning Commission’s recommendation of approval for the proposed map amendment
is being forwarded to City Council for final review and decision. After reviewing the
application and supporting materials submitted, and hearing testimony from the applicant
and the public, Planning Commission voted 6-0 to approve the map amendment to rezone
parcel IDs Q6542052000018 and Q6542055000012 to B-2: Community Business District
from its current zoning of R-4P: Planned Development District.
Mayor Slamka invited applicant Jonathan Wocher of McBride Dale Clarion, representing
CASTO on this application to the podium. He explained that we are requesting the map
amendment for 1301 South Marshall Street, this is currently the Masonic Temple. The
building is becoming obsolete and the temple no longer needs the size property that they
have. With the current zoning of R-4P: Attached Residential Plan Development, we think
that a more appropriate zoning designation would be to the B-2 Business District, that would
be consistent with the large shopping center to the west of our property. We would intend
to develop this for two to three commercial lots. We don't have any specific users at this
time, but view this as the first step for allowing us to proceed with plans. We have met with
staff and they've shared some of the comments that were mentioned about, possible future
traffic studies and access. Our intent would be to preserve landscaping where we can and
meet or exceed the city's codes on that. We believe that we are consistent with the master
plan which designates us for neighborhood mixed use and that we think this could possibly
be a catalyst for additional development in this part of Middletown. We think we comply with
the zoning criteria for a zone map amendment and as mentioned by staff there was support
by planning commission and no opposition that has been raised.
Mayor Slamka called for those who wished to speak in support of the zoning map
amendment; hearing none she called for those who wished to speak in opposition. Hearing
none, the public comment portion of the public hearing was closed at 5:40 p.m.
Mr. Lolli commented that I hope we can come up with something original for this spot. I think
the last thing people want to see is another gas station, another dollar store, or another
pharmacy. I’m in favor of redevelopment, but I hope we can work with staff to bring
something unique to Middletown. I’ve heard from a lot of residents about this. I’ve known
about it for a long time, and I know many people involved with the Masons, so I’ve received
quite a few comments from both them and the general public.
Mr. West concurred.
Law Director Ewing took a straw poll of City Council to accept the recommendation from the
planning commission. Ayes: Mr. Mulligan, Mr. West, Ms. Slamka, Mrs. Cater, Mr. Lolli.

CITIZEN COMMENTS
Karen DuPee

COUNCIL COMMENTS
Mr. Lolli

Karen DuPee, 612 15th Avenue, Middletown, Ohio asked for an update regarding the street
surveillance cameras the city discussed previously. The last time I attended, it was
mentioned that funding had been secured and that installation could take around 30 days.
I understand these projects can take time, but I was hoping to get an update on the current
status—whether the cameras have been ordered or installed yet, and approximately how
much longer residents should expect to wait. Thank you for your time.
Mr. Lolli thanked the fire department, Chief Wright and your team on an excellent stop they
made on the fire at 1716 central. Even though that building looks like it's probably going to
have to come down, the buildings adjacent to it appear to be saved. And those are very
difficult fires especially when you got a lot of apartments in there and you know there's high
life safety but by the grace of God everybody got out and the firefighters are all safe. So,
thank you and good job to the firemen. video t

Mrs. Carter

Mrs. Carter commented, Good evening, Middletown.

Mr. West

Mr. West seconded Councilman Lolli’s comments, Chief Wright, thank you. I think all the
training that you and your crews do definitely pay off in in these types of events. I was glad
to hear that everybody was safe and they were evacuated. So, good work.

Mr. Mulligan

Mr. Mulligan reported that as the council representative to Keep Middletown Beautiful I
recently attended their board meeting and offered my thanks to the volunteers that make
that possible and try to beautify our city throughout the year and also educate youth. They've
got some upcoming sessions with school age kids coming up this spring and summer. Also
of note, it's been on social media, Keep Middletown Beautiful Earth Day is the last Saturday

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March 3, 2026

of April from 9 a.m. until noon and we will kick that off from the Event Center in Middletown.
So please join us. Last year there were over 100 volunteers and I'll be participating with the
Middletown Rotary Club and others. Please come out and help beautify our neighborhoods.
Thank you.
Ms. Slamka

Ms. Slamka also recognized the fire department. They worked down on Central Avenue
almost the entire day, and it was cold; but that's what they do every day, so thank you. City
Council and staff had a great strategic planning session on February 20th and 21st. This
was the kickoff for the planning of council's community priorities for the next three to five
years beginning in 2027. I thank City Manager Combs for creating the meeting for us, Tina
Blevins for doing a wonderful job with all the logistics, all the directors and staff who were
present and participated. My fellow council members for their careful preparation and good
conversation and Envision Group LLC. for facilitating. This Friday, March 6th, is DMI's
Downtown Middletown, Inc.'s first Friday event called Luck on the Rocks, a Shamrock Sip
and Shop beginning at 5:00 p.m. and ending at 8:00 p.m. Stroll the streets, explore unique
boutiques, enjoy special deals, and discover something new while supporting the
businesses you love. Please visit downtownmittletown.org for more information, including
where to find the local specials of the evening. Saturday, March 7th, from 12 - 4 p.m. is the
popular Girl Scout cookie walk presented by DMI. You can walk to local shops and eateries
and establishments for different Girl Scout cookies and an optional wine pairing. As an
added bonus, there will be a cookie monster scavenger hunt where you can find hidden
cookies in downtown businesses and redeem your passport for a free box of Girl Scout
cookies. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit
downtowntownmtown.org. Later that evening, this Saturday, March 7th, from 6 - 9:00 p.m.
at the Event Center of Middletown located at 3907 Central Avenue, is Bourbon and
Barbecue brought to you by the City of Middletown and the Middletown Rotary. This
signature community event is a curated experience featuring a gourmet barbecue dinner,
bourbon tastings, and live musical performances. Proceeds support the Middletown
Rotary's mission and community service projects. For more information and ticket prices,
please visit city of middletown.org under events. Next Friday, March 13th, from 6 - 8 p.m.,
the MAC, our beloved Middletown Art Center, presents Textiles to Art, Contemporary Quilt
and Fiber Artists. This exhibition runs through April 23rd in the main exhibition hall and
showcases contemporary textile art and quilts by members of CQFA, which is Contemporary
Quilt and Fiber Artists, highlighting innovative approaches to fiber, pattern, and process. For
more information, please visit middletownartcenter.org. Continue your evening next Friday,
March 13th, at 800 PM at the beautiful and historic Sorg Opera House located at 63 South
Main Street with Night Moves, the ultimate Bob Seager tribute. This is a high octane revival
of the raw soul and straight ahead thunder that defined a generation. For more information,
please visit Sorgoperahouse.org. Next Saturday, March 14th, from 1 - 4 p.m., enjoy
camaraderie, fresh air, and laughs at the Middletown Kawanis Club's 8th annual Book
Around Middletown to benefit the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Teams decorate a
grocery cart with a theme they choose based on a children's book and then race around
downtown Middletown shops, bars, and restaurants, completing as many games as
possible. For more information, please visit cityofmiddletown.org under events. That same
evening, next Saturday, March 14th, head over to the Sorg Opera House to enjoy Cashmere,
the Led Zeppelin show, blazing guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and all the classic anthems
you know and love. Whether you're a diehard Zeppelin fan or just love good rock music, this
show promises energy, nostalgia, and a crowd ready to rock. For more information, please
visit Sorgoperahouse.org. Please save the date of March 28th from 7 - 11 p.m. at the
Windamere located at 2 South Main Street for the Enchanted Forest Fantasy Ball presented
by the Windamere and Crooked Dog Comics. You are encouraged to dress in your best ball
attire and dance the night away. For more information and ticket options, please visit
crookedcomics.com/enchanted forest-ball. As a reminder, the city of Middletown accepts
applications for our boards and commissions throughout the year. So, if there's something
that you have an interest in and you wish to give back to your city in this way, please do
submit your application to learn more, please visit the city's website at cityofmiddtown.org.
Is there an update on the surveillance or maybe we can speak to that during City Manager
Reports?
City Manager Combs Responded that Police Chief Nelson is going to speak with Ms. DuPee
about the surveillance cameras.

CITY MANAGER
REPORTS

City Manager Combs announced that both Luke Modesto, the new Community and
Economic Development Program Manager and Thomas Smith the new Community and
Economic Development Director were here tonight.
City Manager Combs welcomed Ms. Mattia to the podium. Cassie Mattia, Public Relations
Coordinator for the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities, spoke about the
organization's mission to help people with developmental disabilities access their

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communities and live independent lives. The board supports about 4,300 individuals from
birth through adulthood, providing services such as early intervention, case management,
job support, housing coordination, and protective services. She explained that
developmental disabilities are lifelong conditions that begin before age 22 and may include
conditions like autism, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy. The board uses a personcentered approach, tailoring services to each individual’s goals, whether that means
employment, independent living, or personal milestones like marriage. Ms. Mattia also
highlighted the importance of early intervention, employment opportunities, assistive
technology, and community partnerships. However, she noted that rising costs and flat
revenue have led the agency to declare a fiscal emergency, prompting a 2-mill levy on the
May ballot to preserve existing services for people with developmental disabilities in Butler
County.
CONSENT
AGENDA

Approve City Council Minutes of November 18, 2025, and February 17, 2026
Confirm the conditional appointments of Thomas Smith to the position of Community and
Economic Development Director in the Community and Economic Development
Department and of Robert Blake to the position of Expedited Water & Sewer in the
Department of Public Works and Utilities, Water Maintenance Division and of James
Fox to the position of Code Specialist in the Community & Economic Development
Department.
Confirm the appointment of Alyssa Bowles to the position of Engineer in the Department
of Public Works & Utilities, Division of Engineering.
Confirm the promotional appointment of Aaron Wenzel to the position of Equipment
Operator in the Department of Public Works & Utilities, Division of Sewer
Maintenance.
Receive and file Oaths of Office for Jacob Adams, Jesse Garcia, Tristan Gesler, Joshua
Morrow and Timothy Payne.
Mr. Lolli moved to approve the issues and actions listed on the Consent Agenda. Mr. West
seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr.
West.

Provide $53,000
To MAC

Authorize a one-year City Services Agreement to provide funding to the Middletown
Arts Center in the amount of $53,000.00.
Mr. West moved to authorize a one-year City Services Agreement to provide funding to the
Middletown Arts Center in the amount of $53,000.00. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried.
Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan. Nay: Mrs. Carter.

LEGISLATION
Ord. No. O2026-07
Approve a Revised
Development Plan
Havenwood

Ordinance No. O2026-07, an ordinance approving the revised final development plan for
the Havenwood planned development on Towne Boulevard was read for the second time.
Mr. Lolli moved to approve Ordinance No. O2026-07, an ordinance approving the revised
final development plan for the Havenwood planned development on Towne Boulevard. Mr.
West seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms.
Slamka.

Res. No. R2026-02
Approve and Adopt
the Historic
Preservation Plan

Resolution No. R2026-02, a resolution approving and adopting the Middletown Historic
Preservation and Revitalization Plan was read for the second time.

Res. No. R2026-03
Amend
Appropriations
Buildings &
Structures

Resolution No. R2026-03, a resolution to make a supplemental appropriation for the
Middletown Division of Police to renovate the former Fire Station 82 into a
police substation and declaring an emergency was read.

Res. No. R2026-04
Amend
Appropriations
Police Grant Fund

Resolution No. R2026-04, a resolution to make a supplemental appropriation for the
2024 Ohio Sexual Assault Investigation Grant Program and declaring an emergency was
read.

Mr. West moved to approve Resolution No. R2026-02, a resolution approving and adopting
the Middletown Historic Preservation and Revitalization Plan. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion
carried. Ayes: Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli.

Mr. West moved to approve Resolution No. R2026-03, a resolution to make a
supplemental appropriation for the Middletown Division of Police to renovate the
former Fire Station 82 into a police substation and declaring an emergency. Mr. Lolli
seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter.

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Mr. West moved to approve Resolution No. R2026-04, a resolution to make a
supplemental appropriation for the 2024 Ohio Sexual Assault Investigation Grant Program
and declaring an emergency. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr. Mulligan, Ms.
Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West.
Res. No. R2026-05
Warren County MultiJurisdictional Drug
Task
Force MOU

Res. No. R2026-06
Purchase Property
1 North Main Street

Resolution No. R2026-05, a resolution authorizing participation in the Warren County
Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force and authorizing the city manager to execute the
related Memorandum of Understanding and declaring an emergency.
Mr. West moved to approve Resolution No. R2026-05, a resolution authorizing
participation in the Warren County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force and authorizing
the city manager to execute the related Memorandum of Understanding and declaring an
emergency. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter,
Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan.
Resolution No. R2026-06, a resolution approving the purchase of certain real property
and authorizing the city manager to enter into a purchase agreement and to execute
related agreement and documents and appropriating funds therefor and declaring an
emergency.
Mr. West moved to approve Resolution No. R2026-06, a resolution approving the
purchase of certain real property and authorizing the city manager to enter into a
purchase agreement and to execute related agreement and documents and appropriating
funds therefor and declaring an emergency. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mr.
Lolli, Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka.

NEW BUSINESS

Ms. Slamka asked staff to look at making wayfinding signs to help direct traffic around
long waits at the train tracks.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

At 6:12 p.m., Mr. West moved to adjourn to executive session under the authority of O.R.C.
121.22 (G) (1) To consider the appointment, employment, dismissal, discipline, promotion,
demotion, or compensation of a public employee or official; and 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:
(a)
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.
(b) 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. Mr. Mulligan seconded. Motion carried. Ayes: Mrs. Carter, Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan,
Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli.

RETURN TO OPEN
SESSION

At 7:06 p.m., Mrs. Carter moved to return to open session. Mr. Lolli seconded. Motion
carried. Ayes: Mr. West, Mr. Mulligan, Ms. Slamka, Mr. Lolli, Mrs. Carter.

ADJOURN

At 7:06 p.m., the meeting was declared adjourned until the regular meeting on March 17,
2026, at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
______________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor

Attest: ___________________________

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HUMAN RESOURCES

March 2, 2026

TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM:

Megan Ellis, Human Resources Manager

SUBJECT:

APPOINTMENT – FIREFIGHTER PARAMEDIC

We are recommending the appointment of AIDAN MATALA to the position of Firefighter
Paramedic in the Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire. Mr. Matala is currently
employed in the Division of Fire as a Firefighter EMT. This appointment is taking place
based on the MOU and contract language related to authorized percent strengths: IAFF,
LOCAL #336 Article 7.
Mr. Matala will be assigned to Range FF-PM, FO1, Step C which provides a salary of
$75,797.15 annually. The effective date of the appointment is February 25, 2026.
/cs
c:

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

Ccmtg3/17/2026

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HUMAN RESOURCES DIVISION

March 2, 2026

TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM:

Megan Ellis, Human Resources Manager

SUBJECT:

APPOINTMENT – ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

We are recommending the appointment of GAYLE GILBERT to the position of
Administrative Assistant in the Finance Department. This is a new position in the 2026
budget.
Ms. Gilbert will be assigned to Range 184, Step B, which provides a salary of $2,117.40 biweekly, $55,052.40 annually. The appointment is conditional on the candidate passing the
required background check and medical evaluation.

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

Ccmtg 3/17/2026

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MOTION
AGENDA

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Hazen
Hazen and Sawyer
7870 E. Kemper Road, Suite 300
Cincinnati, OH 45249

November 20, 2025
Scott Belcher
Manager — Water Treatment
City of Middletown
805 Columbia Avenue
Middletown, OH 45042

Re:

Recarbonation System Replacement
Middletown Water Treatment Plant

Dear Mr. Belcher:
We appreciate the opportunity for Hazen to support the City of Middletown with its water treatment
needs. Hazen understands that the existing recarbonation system requires replacement and additional
capacity is needed to stabilize pH prior to filtration. The existing TOMC02 system delivers carbon
dioxide to water within the filter influent channel through piping and diffusers located within the channel.
When the City takes one solids contact clarifier off-line for cleaning, the plant runs in single-stage
softening mode that has higher pH in the clarifier effluent. pH stabilization with higher C02 dosing is
required during these periods.
This project designs a new recarbonation feed system replacing the existing system and provides additional
capacity meeting a wider range of water treatment needs. This includes a new vertical storage tank for
liquid C02 storage, recarbonation equipment, buried piping, and diffusers. Functionally, the system will
operate in a similar manner but with newer equipment providing greater reliability and capacity. Our
proposed scope of services, fee, and project schedule follow.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact me at (513) 545-3132
or [email protected].
Very truly yours,

Jeff Macomber, PE
Senior Associate

hazenandsawyer.com

Page 59 of 106

Hazen

November Scott 20, Belcher2025

'1 . Scope of Services
The City wishes to replace its existing C02 storage and feed system with a new system as the existing
equipment has reached the end of its lifecycle and additional feed is desired with a newer system. The
current recarbonation system was installed in 1992 and includes a horizontal storage tank, vaporizer,
pumps, piping, and diffusers installed within the filter influent channel. pH monitoring provides feedback
on C02 dosing from both primary and secondary points within the channel ensuring pH stabilization prior
to filtration. When the City takes one of the two solids contact clarifiers off-line for cleaning, the other
clarifier operates in a single stage mode, but without split treatment where some raw water bypasses a
primary clarifier. This single stage operating condition requires a greater pH drop from the recarbonation
process than the split system would require.
This project will review the various options for a new C02 storage and feed system, provide design of
the recommended improvements, and enable solicitation of bids for construction. The City desires
replacement of the existing horizontal C02 storage tank with a larger capacity vertical tank that requires
less footprint at the plant. Other equipment would accompany the storage tank ensuring a complete
system. The C02 tank and control system require new underground piping, electrical, and controls
systems between the main building, the new tank location, and diffusers located in the filter influent
channel in the dry chemical feed room.

Task 1 — Basis of Design for New Recarbonation System
Hazen will hold a virtual kickoff meeting with the City of Middletown establishing project goals, timing,
and managing any constraints.
Hazen will develop basis of design for the new C02 system including recommendations for treatment
flow rates, pH adjustments, C02 feed rates, storage tank volumes, locations, and monitoring. We
anticipate a pressure solution feed (PSF) system will inject C02 within a pumped sidestream flow then
diffused into the clarifier effluent channel that leads to the filters. Given the limited site availability, no
additional recarbonation tank storage or contact time will be designed.
We will develop a technical memorandum summarizing these design conditions then meet and review
with the City. We will finalize the basis of design following receipt of comments, and incorporate into
detailed design efforts.

Task 2 — Detailed Design
Following the basis of design, Hazen will initiate design of the new recarbonation feed system. Our
design will be suitable for Water System Plan Approval permit application to Ohio EPA and for the
City solicitation of a general contractor who will procure, install, and commission the new infrastructure.
Hazen will develop a 50% design deliverable with drawings illustrating the demolition of existing
equipment, location of new equipment, process schematics, and design details. A geotechnical firm will
install two borings at the proposed storage tank location and provide a geotechnical report guiding
foundation requirements. Site civil drawings shall utilize a previously collected field survey. This 50%
design deliverable will include a technical specification for the new recarbonation feed equipment. Hazen

hazenandsawyer.com

Page 2 of 5

Page 60 of 106

Hazen

November Scott 20, Belcher2025

will meet with the City to review the 50% design and gather comments engaging WTP operations staff
and advance the design.
Following receipt of feedback and comments on the 50% design, Hazen will develop a 90% design
deliverable. This includes all anticipated drawings, technical specifications, and an appropriately detailed
opinion of probable construction cost. We will again meet with the City reviewing and gathering
feedback on the 90% design. Solicitation of Water System Plan
Approval from Ohio EPA is derived from the 90% design
deliverable.

-a

The final design deliverable will consist of drawings,
specifications, opinion of probable construction cost. This will
incorporate feedback from the 90% design review and be suitable
for use as bidding documents.

Proposed List of Drawings
Hazen anticipates the final design effort includes the following 21
drawings representing the proposed construction improvements.
GOOO

cool
Cloo

Example Vertical C02 Storage Tank
Arrangement (Ft. Wayne, IN)

Cover Sheet
Demolition Plan
Proposed Site Plan

CDOI

Civil Details
MOOI Process Flow Diagram and Basis of Design
M100 C02 Tank Plan and Section
MIOI

C02 Feed System Sections

M102 C02 Diffusers MDOI Process Details som
s002
Structural Notes Il
Sloo
EOOI

Structural Notes I

C02 Tank Concrete Pad and Details
Electrical Legend and Symbols

E002

Electrical Abbreviations and General Notes

EIOO

Electrical Site Plan

EIOI

Electrical Power Plan

E102

Electrical Panelboard and Details

EDOI Electrical Details
1001

Instrumentation Legend, Symbols, and Abbreviations

1100

C02 Process and Instrumentation Diagram (P&lD)

1101

Instrumentation Details

Middletown 's Existing Filter Influent
Flume and C02 Diffuser Detail

Task 3 — Bidding Services
Hazen anticipates the City will solicit bids from general contractors using its electronic platform. Hazen
will participate in a pre-bid meeting and site visit with prospective bidders describing the project and

hazenandsawyer.com

Page 3 of 5

Page 61 of 106

Hazen

November Scott 20, Belcher2025

bidding requirements. We will provide responses to the City on questions received from bidders during
the bidding process clarifying the design and providing addendum language. Again, we expect the City
would notify potential bidders of addenda and distribute electronically. Following the City's receipt of
bids, Hazen staff will review and discuss selection of a general contractor to perform the work.

Task 4 — Construction Administration
Following the bidding process, we anticipate the City will engage in a construction contract with the
selected general contractor. Hazen will provide construction administration services supporting the City
during the construction period helping ensure the designed project is adequately constructed. Our team
will review shop drawings, RFIs, change order proposals, attend periodic construction meetings, and be
available for questions and collaboration.
We will provide limited Resident Project Representative (RPR) services observing construction activity.
With the limited scope of construction work, we anticipate up to 60 hours of RPR services would be
needed, and coordinated before major equipment installation and the contractor's commissioning.
Hazen will participate in a site walkthrough to develop a punch list near the contractor's substantial
completion milestone, and develop record drawings after receipt of the contractor's red-line as-built
drawings.

2. Proposed Cost
Hazen will complete this scope of services with a not-to-exceed cost of $146,000 with task
estimates provided in the table below. We will invoice monthly based on incurred hours and hourly
rates. All subconsultant services and reimbursable expenses will be invoiced at cost with no markup.
Estimated
Hours
1 — Basis of Design for New Recarbonation System

$14,000

2 — Design Services

480

$98,000

3 — Bidding Services

$4,000

4 — Construction Administration

160

$30,000

740

$146,000

3. Project Schedule
We anticipate starting work in December 2025 and meet key milestones presented in the preliminary
schedule below. We have allocated review periods following key deliverables and design review
meetings ensuring collaboration.

Task
Anticipated Notice to Proceed
Submit Basis of Design Report

BODR Review Meeting
Submit 50% Design Deliverable 50%
Design Review Meeting Submit 90%
Design Deliverable
90% Design Review Meeting

hazenandsawyer.com

Page 4 of 5

Page 62 of 106

Hazen

November Scott 20, Belcher2025

Submit Ohio EPA Permit Application
Submit 100% Design Deliverable
City Advertise for Bidding
City Execute Construction Contract
Construction Period
Complete Project

Milestone Date
December 19,
2025 January 30,
2026
February 6, 2026
March 31, 2026
April 8, 2026
May 29, 2026
June 9, 2026
June 12, 2026
July 15, 2026
August 2026
October 2026
October 2026 — October 2027
November 2027

5hazenandsawyer.com

Page 5 of

Page 63 of 106

STAF REPORT

For the Business Meeting of March 17, 2026

February 11th, 2026
TO: Ashley Combs, City Manager
FROM: Kayla Carle, Purchasing Agent

Purchase of a Truck for Parks Maintenance
PURPOSE
To request approval to purchase a 2026 Ford F-550 from Rush Truck Centers of Cincinnati, Ohio
in the amount of $119,795.35 for the Parks Maintenance Division.
BACKGROUND and FINDINGS
The Parks Maintenance Division has a truck that needs to be replaced and has met the City’s 15point replacement schedule. The truck to be replaced is #2830 2008 GMC 3500HD and is 90
months past due for replacement. This truck will be sold on Gov Deals.
The 2026 Ford F-550 will support routine work throughout the city of Middletown & associated
parks. Work will include debris and snow removal. Truck comes fully functional (fit up) dump
body, snowplow, sand and salt spreader.
The 2026 Ford F-550 truck is available through the cooperative purchasing program, Sourcewell.
ALTERNATIVES
The alternative is not to purchase the new truck. This will impact future operations as current
truck (#2830) has surpassed service life and maintenance costs will continue to escalate due to age.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There are sufficient funds available in the Garage Fund for this purchase (605.550.54340), This
truck was identified during budget planning for FY26.
EMERGENCY/NON-EMERGENCY
Motion Agenda
cc:

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

Page 64 of 106

STAFF REPORT
For the Business Meeting of March 17th, 2026

March 4th, 2026
TO:
FROM:

Ashley Combs, Acting City Manager
Kayla Carle, Purchasing Agent
Bid Recommendation, Bid #26-0212-01
Water Maintenance Supplies

PURPOSE
To request approval for a contract with various vendors for the purchase of supplies for the
Water Maintenance Division.
BACKGROUND and FINDINGS
The Water Maintenance Division maintains an inventory of supplies to be used by the Water
Service Workers. This recommendation is for contract pricing for various supplies/parts. The
bid has been divided into eight sections (brass, stainless steel repair clamps, valve boxes/solid
sleeves, solid repair couplers, gate valves, alpha gate valves, sewer rings/lids, and miscellaneous)
with the intention to award by section, rather than by individual part.
Bids were taken to get contract pricing that will be good through February 28th, 2027.
ALTERNATIVES
Do not approve this contract and purchase these parts individually, on an as needed basis.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
Bids were taken, and are being recommended as follows. The bid asked for individual prices for
parts, and the parts were divided into eight sections. Four vendors responded. The dollar
amounts shown below are an estimate for the purchase of parts over a 12-month period. Low bid
was recommended in all sections except sections 2, 3, and 4.
The lowest bid in Section 2 – Repair Clamps, quoted parts using Smith-Blair (Xylem Brand), the
department prefers Ford parts and have had issues in the past with the quality of Smith-Blair.
The issues were with gaskets staying connected to the repair bands along with longevity of the
product. The difference in price is $3,247.40; making Everett J. Prescott the lowest and best bid
for Section 2.
The lowest bid in Section 3 – Valve Boxes/Solid Sleeves, quoted parts using brands SIP, Brecco
and EBBA, the department prefers Sigma parts. The department feels that Core & Main offer

Page 65 of 106

rebranded products that they are not familiar with and the longevity of those products are
unknown. Ferguson Enterprises quoted materials that the department frequently uses and that is
why they are the preferred vendor for that section. The difference in price is $4,739.14; making
Ferguson Enterprises the lowest and best bid for Section 3.
The lowest bid in Section 4 – Solid Repair Couplers, quoted parts using Hymax (Mueller brand),
the department prefers Romac parts and have had issues in the past with the quality of Hymax.
Romac repair couplings are constructed of ductile iron and Hymax is constructed from different
material and is imported which causes delays in delivery, high tariff prices, etcetera. The
difference in price is $1,495.98; making Ferguson Enterprises the lowest and best bid for Section
4.
Section
Section 1 – Brass
Section 2 – Repair Clamps
Section 3 – Valve Boxes, Sleeves
Section 4 – Solid Repair Couplers
Section 5 – Gate Valves
Section 6 – Alpha Gate Valves
Section 7 – Sewer Rings, Lids
Section 8 – Miscellaneous

Vendor
Everett J. Prescott – Huber Heights, OH
Everett J. Prescott – Huber Heights, OH
Ferguson Enterprises – Cincinnati, OH
Ferguson Enterprises – Cincinnati, OH
Ferguson Enterprises – Cincinnati, OH
Ferguson Enterprises – Cincinnati, OH
Core and Main, LP – Fairfield, OH
Everett J. Prescott – Huber Heights, OH

FINANCIAL IMPACT
The 2026 budget includes enough funding to cover the cost of these parts.
EMERGENCY/NON EMERGENCY
Motion agenda
cc:

Samantha Zimmerman, Finance Director
Scott Tadych, Public Works & Utilities Director
Ethan Harness, Public Works & Utilities Superintendent
Robert Blake, Expeditor - Water & Sewer

Total
$24,507.75
$31,745.25
$56,750.52
$16,309.80
$12,797.90
$36,893.58
$15,105.20
$ 3,456.00

Page 66 of 106

LEGISLATION
ITEM 1

Page 67 of 106

ORDINANCE NO. O2026-09
AN ORDINANCE RENEWING THE DESIGNATED OUTDOOR REFRESHMENT
AREA AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
WHEREAS, Middletown City Council established a “Designated Outdoor
Refreshment Area” (DORA) in the downtown area by Ordinance No. O2015-59,
adopted on November 3, 2015; and
WHEREAS, City Council has previously amended and renewed the DORA
through passage of Ordinance No. O2018-24, adopted June 19, 2018, Ordinance
No. O2019-05, adopted February 5, 2019; and Ordinance No. O2021-14, adopted
February 16, 2021; and
WHEREAS, R.C. 4301.82(I)(2) requires the legislative authority of the City to
review the operation of the area and determine if its operation should continue; and
WHEREAS, City Manager Ashley Combs submitted a staff report to City
Council for review at the March 17, 2026, council meeting proposing the continued
operation of the DORA; and
WHEREAS, notice of City Council’s review of the DORA was published in a
newspaper of general circulation in the City of Middletown; to wit the Journal News
in compliance with R.C 4301.82; and
WHEREAS, City Council finds that the proposed renewal of the DORA would
be in the best interest of the City and businesses located within the DORA;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of
Middletown, Butler/Warren Counties, Ohio that:
Section 1
City Council hereby approves the continued operation of the DORA in the area
of downtown Middletown, as previously approved by Ordinance No. O2021-14.
Section 2
This ordinance is not of a general or permanent nature, nor does it provide for
a public improvement.

Page 68 of 106

Section 3
This ordinance is declared to be an emergency measure necessary for the
immediate preservation of the public health, safety and general welfare, to wit: to
allow for the continued operation of the DORA without interruption, and shall take
effect and be in force from and after its adoption.
________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor
Adopted:__________
Attest:_______________________
Clerk of City Council
H:/Law/leg/2026 Leg/O DORA 5 year Renewal

Page 69 of 106

STAFF REPORT

For the business meeting of March 17, 2026

______________________________________________________________________________
DATE:

March 12, 2026

TO:

City Council

FROM:

Ashley Combs, City Manager
Prepared by: Julie Klehamer, Paralegal

Application to City Council for Five
Year Renewal of DORA
PURPOSE
To request City Council’s approval to continue operating the Designated Outdoor Refreshment
Area (DORA) for five more years.
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS
Pursuant to R.C. §4301.82(I)(2), five years following the renewal of an outdoor refreshment area,
the City is required to review the operation of the area and shall, by ordinance or resolution, either
approve the continued operation of the DORA or dissolve it.
The City created the DORA in 2015. Since its inception, the DORA has been amended on two
occasions. The three amendments included lengthening the hours of operation from noon to
midnight daily and extending the eastern boundary along Central Avenue and extending the
boundary over to First Avenue to include the block bounded by Philadelphia Avenue, Garfield
Street, First Avenue and Baltimore Street. The DORA was last renewed in February 2021.
The DORA has proven to be successful in Middletown. The City has been able to maintain public
safety and sanitation in the area with limited problems or on-going concerns. The number of
businesses within the DORA have continued to increase.
The only operational change to the DORA since the last renewal was a change in how someone
participates. Previously, participants would need to purchase a wristband for $1.00 which would
be good for the entire day at each authorized establishment in the DORA. Now, participants
purchase a designated DORA cup for $1.00 from each business.
The DORA currently has 12 or more participating businesses.
Staff recommends that City Council approve the continued operation of the DORA for an
additional five years.

Page 70 of 106

ALTERNATIVES
The alternatives would be for City Council to amend the existing DORA or to dissolve the DORA.
Any changes to the DORA would require a new application to the legislative authority, a new
public hearing and legislation.
FINANCIAL IMPACTS
N/A
EMERGENCY/NON EMERGENCY
Emergency passage is requested to ensure the continued operation of the DORA.

Page 71 of 106

LEGISLATION
ITEM 2

Page 72 of 106

RESOLUTION NO. R2026-07
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 AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
(PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT FUND – POLICE SUBSTATION)
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 Property Development
Fund of the City to accounts of the City for the purposes herein described as follows:
FROM: Unappropriated Property Development Fund (Fund # 499)
TO:
Building and Structures, Account 499.990.54400
TOTAL PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT FUND

$77,673.76
$77,673.76
$77,673.76

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, including Resolution No.
R2026-03, approved March 3, 2026.
Section 4
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
enhance police services within the City and fund critical repairs and upgrades,
ensuring that essential improvements can be completed without delay, and shall take
effect and be in force from and after its adoption.
_______________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor

Page 73 of 106

Adopted:_____________

Attest: _________________________
Clerk of City Council
H:/Law/leg/2026 leg/r Supp Approp (Police Substation)

Page 74 of 106

STAFF REPORT

For the Business Meeting of March 3, 2026

February 11th, 2026
TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM:

Earl Nelson, Chief of Police

**BACK BEFORE COUNCIL DUE TO ERROR OF
THE FUND IDENTIFIED IN THE PRIOR
LEGISLATION (R2026-03) - NEW RESOLUTION NO.
R2026-07

Supplemental Appropriation – Police Substation (Old Fire Station 82)
PURPOSE
The purpose of this report to request a supplemental appropriation for the Middletown Division of
Police to renovate the old Fire Station 82 into a Police Substation, as previously approved by City
Council.
BACKGROUND and FINDINGS
The Division of Police is requesting a supplemental appropriation to continue the renovation of
the old Fire Station 82 located at 3765 Dixie Hwy, Middletown, OH 45005. Funding for this
project was initially approved in 2025. However, the renovations for the substation have taken
longer than anticipated, and additional work is still needed to make it operational.
Therefore, the Division of Police is requesting that the remaining balance from the allocated funds
for 2025 be transferred to 2026 to complete the project.
ALTERNATIVES
The alternative would be not to allocate the funds, and not to open the substation.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
This will allow the unused portion of the 2025 appropriation to be appropriated into the Building
and Structures account (499.990.54400) to be used for the remainder of the substation renovations
in 2026 - $77,673.76.
EMERGENCY/NON-EMERGENCY
This emergency legislation is necessary to enhance police services on the east end of Middletown.
Immediate appropriations are required to fund critical repairs and upgrades, ensuring that essential
improvements can be completed without delay.

Page 75 of 106

LEGISLATION
ITEM 3

Page 76 of 106

RESOLUTION NO. R2026-08
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 AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (POLICE
GRANT 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 Police Grant Fund of the
City to accounts of the City for the purposes herein described as follows:
FROM: Unappropriated Police Grant Fund (Fund # 251)
TO:
Other Equipment, Account 251.035.54360
TOTAL POLICE GRANT FUND

$7,826.33
$7,826.33
$7,826.33

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, including Resolution No.
R2026-04, approved March 3, 2026.
Section 4
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
enhance police services within the City and fund critical repairs and upgrades, ensuring
that essential improvements can be completed without delay, and shall take effect and
be in force from and after its adoption.
_______________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor

Page 77 of 106

Adopted:_______
Attest:_______________________
Clerk of City Council
H:\Law\leg\2026 Leg\ r Supp Approp (Police Grant - OH sexual assault investigation grant)

Page 78 of 106

STAFF REPORT

For the Business Meeting of March 3rd, 2026

February 11th, 2026
TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM:

Earl Nelson, Chief of Police

**BACK BEFORE COUNCIL DUE TO ERROR OF
THE FUND IDENTIFIED IN THE PRIOR
LEGISLATION (R2026-04) - NEW RESOLUTION
NO. R2026-08

Appropriations of Funds for the 2024 Ohio Sexual Assault Investigation
Grant Program
PURPOSE
To request approval to do a Supplemental Appropriation of $7,826.33 to the following account for
the 2024 Ohio Sexual Assault Investigation Program:
Fund 251 Police Grant Fund, specifically:
251.035.54360 Other Equipment $7,826.33
BACKGROUND and FINDINGS
The City of Middletown was awarded a grant totaling $11,748.96 from the Ohio Office of
Criminal Justice Services for the 2024 Ohio Sexual Assault Investigation Program in the
previous fiscal year. The police department allocated $3,922.63 of these funds for the purchase
of equipment last year. A supplemental appropriation of the remaining balance, amounting to
$7,826.33, is necessary to be directed to Fund 251, the Police Grant Fund, specifically to account
251.035.54360 for Other Equipment, in order to facilitate reimbursement for future acquisitions.
These funds will be designated to cover the expenses associated with the installation of new
fencing at the new police substation, former firehouse located at 3765 Dixie Highway, as well as
for the procurement of additional shelving and containers for the property room.
ALTERNATIVES
None.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
No financial impact to the City of Middletown.
EMERGENCY/NON-EMERGENCY
Emergency passage is requested. A request for expedited consideration is being made in order to
meet the objectives of the grant prior to the established deadlines.

Page 79 of 106

LEGISLATION
ITEM 4

Page 80 of 106

ORDINANCE NO. O2026-10
AN ORDINANCE CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION FOR TWO
PARCELS LOCATED AT 1301 SOUTH MARSHALL ROAD FROM R-4P (PLANNED
DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT) TO B-2 (COMMUNITY BUSINESS DISTRICT).
WHEREAS, 1301 South Marshall Road, also known as Butler County parcel
numbers Q6542052000018 and Q6542055000012, is presently zoned R-4P (Planned
Development District); and,
WHEREAS, the applicant, Jonathon Wocher of McBride Dale Clarion on behalf
potential purchaser, CASTO, and with approval of the property owner, Middletown
Masonic Temple, has petitioned for the parcels to be rezoned to B-2 (Community
Business District). CASTO expects the redevelopment to be for commercial uses with
two or three commercial lots; and,
WHEREAS, the City Planning Commission conducted a public hearing to review
the map amendment on January 14, 2026, after giving notice of the time and place of
the hearing to all property owners within two hundred feet of the boundaries of the
subject property and notice was published in the Journal News; and,
WHEREAS, the City Planning Commission has recommended that the request
for rezone to B-2 be approved for the parcels; and,
WHEREAS, City Council held a public hearing on March 3, 2026, notice of such
public hearing having been given in the Journal News at least 30 days prior to such
hearing and provided to all property owners within 200 feet; and
WHEREAS, City Council hereby concurs in the recommendation of the City
Planning Commission and agrees that the request substantially complies with the
review criteria contained in the City Development Code for rezoning of property;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of the City of
Middletown, Butler/Warren Counties, Ohio that:
Section 1
The zoning classification for 1301 South Marshall Road, also known as Butler
County parcel numbers Q6542052000018 and Q6542055000012, which is presently
zoned R-4P (Planned Development District) is hereby changed to B-2 (Community
Business District). The area to be rezoned is more particularly shown in Exhibit “A”,
attached hereto. Staff is directed to revise the zoning map for the City to reflect this
change.

Page 81 of 106

Section 2
This ordinance 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/O Zone Change – Middletown Masonic Temple

Page 82 of 106

For the Business Meeting of March 3, 2026

February 24, 2026
TO:
ATTN:
FROM:

City Council
Ashley Combs, City Manager
Claire Fetters Binegar, City Planner

SUBJECT:

Map Amendment (Zone Change) – Parcel IDs Q6542052000018
and Q6542055000012

APPLICANT:
Jonathan Wocher, AICP
McBride Dale Clarion
5721 Dragon Way, Suite 300
Cincinnati, OH 45227

PROPERTY OWNER:
Middletown Masonic Temple
P.O. Box 348
Middletown, OH 45042

PARCEL IDS:
Q6542052000018, Q6542055000012
REQUEST:
A request by Jonathan Wocher of McBride Dale Clarion on behalf of CASTO to amend the
zoning map for parcels Q6542052000018 and Q6542055000012 from R-4P: Planned
Development District to B-2: Community Business District. The subject parcels,
commonly known 1301 S. Marshall Road, equate to a total of 5.4316 acres. The
proposed map amendment will require approval by Middletown City Council following
Planning Commission’s recommendation on the application per Chapter 1226.03 of the
Middletown Development Code.
PROPERTY BACKGROUND:
The subject parcels are currently zoned R-4P: Planned Development District. The purpose
of the Planned Development District is to provide an opportunity for creative and flexible
land development where a base zoning district will not accommodate the proposed
development but where such development will further the purpose of this code and the
goals and policies of the master plan. The Planned Development District is designed to
allow for deviations from certain zoning standards that would otherwise apply if not contrary
to the general spirit and intent of this code.
Butler County Auditor identifies there to be one structure on the parcel with the street
address of 1301 S. Marshall Road (parcel Q6542052000018). The structure was built in
1974 and has a total of 20,430 square feet of gross building area. The other parcel, parcel
Q6542055000012, has remained undeveloped. The Auditor’s website does not have
record of any property transfers for the two subject parcels.
City permit records show the subject property has been in use as a Masonic Temple since
1974. Additional research of the subject parcels has found a number of resolutions and
ordinances that have changed the subject parcels’ zoning district as well as established a
planned use modification plan. The pertinent zoning history for the present-day zoning of
the parcels found by City staff is as follows:

Page 83 of 106

For the Business Meeting of March 3, 2026

•

Resolution 4072, Adopted May 18, 1971: The resolution approved a modified use
plan for a private club on lots 13262 and 13118. Following approval of Resolution
4072, City Planning Commission approved the final development plan in February
1974. A Certificate of Zoning Compliance was approved by the City’s Zoning
Administrator following Planning Commission’s approval.

Surrounding property zoning designations/uses:
• North: R-3 Medium-Density Residential District (existing residences and religious
place of worship)
• East: R-3 Medium-Density Residential District (existing residences)
• South: O-1P Planned Development District (existing commercial uses and school)
• West: B-2 Community Business District (existing commercial uses)
STAFF ANALYSIS:
The applicant requests to rezone the subject parcels “to allow redevelopment of the
property for commercial uses – 2 to 3 commercial lots are anticipated.” The map
amendment would impact a total of 5.4316 acres.
The purpose of the B-2 zoning district is to provide for areas of the City that will contain a
wide variety of commercial and office uses to meet the needs of the City and region that
require access to major arterial streets and are in close proximity to major residential
neighborhoods.
MIDDLETOWN COMPREHENSIVE PLAN:
The 2022 Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use map labels the subject parcels within the
Neighborhood Mixed Use future land use category explained as primarily small-scale
commercial, office, medical, and service uses that cater to the surrounding residential
neighborhoods with secondary uses that include residential.
The subject parcels are also located in the City’s Crossroads Development Opportunity
Area, which has the following vision: the Crossroads Development Opportunity Area
contains a mixture of shopping centers of varying size, age, and condition with a mix of
residential at the northeast and southeast corner of Roosevelt and Breiel Boulevard. Due to
its strategic location, proactive steps will be taken to recruit complementary development
within this area. The development will result in rehabilitated shopping centers and new
mixed use, pedestrian friendly developments located next to major thoroughfares. The
future land use for the development opportunity area is as follows: neighborhood mixed use
is encouraged in the Crossroads Development Opportunity Area to blend the existing and
planned land use patterns of residential and commercial.
PUBLIC NOTICE REQUIREMENT:
Per the Middletown Development Code, Table 1226-1: Notice Requirements, public notice
was provided to all property owners within 200 feet of the property and published notice
was issued in the Journal-News. No comments have been received to date.
OTHER DEPARTMENT COMMENTS:
2

Page 84 of 106

For the Business Meeting of March 3, 2026

Public Works Department
• Future redevelopment may be subject to traffic impact studies.
• Full access to the redeveloped site will only be permitted from Marshall Road;
right-in, right-out could be permitted from Roosevelt Boulevard. No access will be
permitted from Grand Avenue.
Community & Economic Development Department
• The redevelopment of this site will add to the economic activity in the area, and
the map amendment is a strong first step in achieving future commercial sites.
PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION:
The Planning Commission’s recommendation of approval for the proposed map
amendment is being forwarded to City Council for final review and decision. After
reviewing the application and supporting materials submitted, and hearing testimony
from the applicant and the public, Planning Commission voted 6-0 to approve the map
amendment to rezone parcel IDs Q6542052000018 and Q6542055000012 to B-2:
Community Business District from its current zoning of R-4P: Planned Development
District.
MAP AMENDMENT REVIEW CRITERIA:
Recommendations and decisions on code text or map amendment applications shall be
based on consideration of the following review criteria. Not all criteria may be applicable
in each case, and each case shall be determined on its own facts.
1. The proposed amendment is consistent with the master plan, other adopted City
plans, and the stated purposes of this code;
2. The proposed amendment is necessary or desirable because of changing
conditions, new planning concepts, or other social or economic conditions;
3. The proposed amendment will promote the public health, safety, and general
welfare;
4. The proposed amendment, if amending the zoning map, is consistent with the
stated purpose of the proposed zoning district;
5. The proposed amendment is not likely to result in significant adverse impacts
upon the natural environment, including air, water, noise, storm water
management, wildlife, and vegetation, or such impacts will be substantially
mitigated; and/or
6. The proposed amendment is not likely to result in significant adverse impacts
upon other property in the vicinity of the subject lot.
ATTACHMENTS:
Application, supporting documentation, and zoning map.

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LEGISLATION
ITEM 5

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ORDINANCE NO. O2026-11
AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A PROCEDURE FOR AND AUTHORIZING A
CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY AND MIDDLETOWN INDUSTRIAL
TECHNOLOGIES, LLC FOR THE SALE OF CITY OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED
ON HOOK DRIVE, KNOWN AS BUTLER COUNTY PARCEL NUMBER
Q6511026000021.
WHEREAS, the City owns certain vacant real property on Hook Drive known as
Butler County parcel number Q6511026000021; and
WHEREAS, Middletown Industrial Technologies, LLC (“MIT”) has offered to
purchase the land to expand its business with a second location in the City; and
WHEREAS, staff has proposed to split the lot to reserve 60 feet for future access
to the west side of the airport property and sell the remainder to MIT;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of the City of
Middletown, Butler/Warren Counties, Ohio that:
Section 1
The City Manager, having determined that it is appropriate, in this instance, and
as an economic development incentive to the purchaser, to waive the requirement
outlined in Chapter 721 of the Ohio Revised Code requiring that public land sales be
subject to appraisal as to fair market value; and to further waive the requirement to
follow the procedures for the public solicitation of bids as set forth in Ordinance No.
02002-87, is hereby authorized to enter into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with MIT
for their purchase of parcel Q6511026000021 along Hook Drive. The contract shall be
in a form substantially similar to Attachment “1”, attached hereto, and shall be 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 721 of the Ohio Revised Code and
Ordinance No. 02002-87 shall not be applicable to the award and execution of the
aforesaid contract.
Section 3
City Council hereby determines that the property to be transferred by the City is
not presently needed for any municipal purposes.

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Section 4
The City Manager is hereby authorized to execute any and all agreements and
other instruments necessary to implement the real estate transaction contemplated in
the attached Purchase and Sale Agreement.
Section 5
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 6
This ordinance 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/O Sale of Property to Middletown Industrial Technologies (MIT) - Hook Drive parcel

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STAFF REPORT

For the business meeting of March 17, 2026

_____________________________________________________________________________
DATE:

March 11, 2026

TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM:
PREPARED BY:

Jacob Schulte, CED Assistant Director
Michalla Perkins, Economic Development Program Manager

Middletown Industrial Technologies LLC--Purchase and Sale Agreement
PURPOSE
To authorize the City Manager to approve and enter into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with
Middletown Industrial Technologies, LLC for parcel Q6511026000021, located on Hook Drive,
in an amount of $100,000, conditioned on Middletown Industrial Technologies meeting certain
commitments.
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS
Middletown Industrial Technologies, LLC, a machining and fabrication company in the
engineering service industry, approached the City about purchasing parcel Q6511026000021 on
Hook Drive to expand the company into another location here in Middletown. The City purchased
this property from DJP Enterprises, LLC in November of 2016 for $100,000.
This purchase and sale agreement will allow Middletown Industrial Technologies, LLC to procure
the 3.5-acre property at a cost of $100,000. This purchase price will be placed in an escrow account
held until Middletown Industrial Technologies achieves payroll commitments. Prior to closing, the
City will survey the property and retain enough right-of-way along the southern portion of the
property for future access needs to the City Airport.
Middletown Industrial Technologies, LLC is planning to clear the site and construct a 6,000 SF
machine shop to suit their operational needs. They plan to increase their workforce with 16
employees with an estimated annual payroll, once fully operational, of at least $1,400,000.
ALTERNATIVES
1. Modify the agreement
2. Strike down the agreement
FINANCIAL IMPACTS
City is responsible for one-half of the closing costs and the cost of lot split.
NON-EMERGENCY / EMERGENCY
Non-emergency

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LEGISLATION
ITEM 6

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RESOLUTION NO. R2026-09
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO APPLY FOR AND
ENTER INTO A GRANT AGREEMENT WITH THE FEDERAL AVIATION
ADMINISTRATION AND OHIO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF
AVIATION FOR THE “RAMP EXPANSION JETS HANGAR DESIGN” PROJECT AT
MIDDLETOWN REGIONAL AIRPORT AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Middletown, Butler/Warren
Counties, Ohio that:
Section 1
The City Manager is authorized to apply for and to enter into a grant agreement
with the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”) and Ohio Department of
Transportation, Office of Aviation (“ODOT”), for the “Ramp Expansion Jets Hangar
Design” project at Middletown Regional Airport. It is anticipated that the FAA will pay
for 95% and ODOT will pay for 5% of the project. The agreement shall be in a form
approved by the Law Director.
In the event that separate applications and agreements are needed for both the
FAA and ODOT, the City Manager is authorized to execute any documents necessary
to procure these grants.
Section 2
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 3
This resolution is declared to be an emergency measure necessary for the
immediate preservation of the public health, safety and general welfare, to wit: so that
the application can be timely submitted before the May 1, 2026 deadline, and shall take
effect and be in force from and after its adoption.
_______________________________
Elizabeth Slamka, Mayor
Adopted:_____________
Attest: _________________________
Clerk of City Council
H:/Law/Leg/2026 Leg/r FAA ODOT Airport Grant – JETS Ramp Expansion Design

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STAFF REPORT
For Council Meeting: March 17, 2026
______________________________________________________________________________
DATE:

MAR 17, 2026

TO:

Ashley Combs, City Manager

FROM:

Nik Brumback, Airport Manager
Authorization to Apply/Accept FAA Grant for Ramp Expansion Jets
Hangar Design

PURPOSE
To authorize the city manager to apply and accept 95/5 (95% FAA/5% ODOT) grant from
FAA/ODOT to provide financial assistance to publicly owned airports, for the “Ramp Expansion
Jets Hangar Design” project.
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS
The Middletown Regional Airport has AIG funds from the FAA that are available. The Airport is
looking to expand the current ramp in front of the “Jets Hangar” to provide adequate parking for
the current tenants along with transient aircraft parking.
Over the coming months the airport will be moving the current FBO office space to a better suitable
area at the airport. The larger ramp will benefit the airport in adding additional fuel sales, increase
operations, along with better airport accessibility for visiting business travel.
This expansion of ramp is in line with the 2022 airport master plan along with the current ACIP
(Airport Capital Improvement Plan) that is reviewed by the FAA.
The deadline to apply is 5/1/26.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The total cost for the design of the project is $83,000. FAA funding would cover $78,850 and
ODOT would cover $4,150.
The current airport capital budget has the funds to upfront the project and would be fully
reimbursed by the FAA/ODOT.
ALTERNATIVES
City Council may elect to not move forward with the proposed grant opportunity.
EMERGENCY/NON-EMERGENCY

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2nd Reading Emergency
ATTACHMENTS
N/A

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UNFINISHED
BUSINESS

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NEW BUSINESS

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EXECUTIVE
SESSION

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