On the agenda: Trenton meeting — license plate reader (Sep 17)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 17th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.

Floyd Croucher

Ray Nichols

Ryan Perry
Mayor
Austin Proffitt Ken Roark

Vice Mayor

Council Member

Council Member

Council Member

Marci Butts

Sharon Montgomery

Council Member

Council Member

CALL TO ORDER
PRAYER

1. Pastor Jason Pauley
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
PRESENTATIONS
APPROVAL OF MINUTES

1. Minutes of the September 3rd, 2026, Council Work Session
2. Minutes of the September 3rd, 2026, Regular Council Meeting
CONSENT AGENDA

1. A MOTION RECOGNIZING THE PLANNED, BUDGETED, AND EXECUTED CASH
TRANSFERS OF THE 2026 BUDGET YEAR AND TO APPROVE ALL ATTACHED IN
EXHIBIT A AS PRESENTED FOR ANNUAL AUDIT COMPLIANCE.
2. A MOTION TO APPROVE THE CONTRACT AWARD FOR THE TRENTON EV
CHARGING STATION PROJECT TO YORK ELECTRIC, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF
$143,750.00 AND AUTHORIZE A 10% CONSTRUCTION CONTINGENCY IN THE
AMOUNT OF $14,375.00 FOR UNFORESEEN CONSTRUCTION-RELATED
EXPENSES AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL NECESSARY
CONTRACT AND CHANGE ORDER DOCUMNTS FOR A TOTAL PROJECT
AUTHORIZATION OF ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-EIGHT THOUSAND AND ONE
HUNDRED TWENTY-FIVE DOLLARS ($158,125.00)
CORRESPONDENCE

1. August Financial Snapshot
AUDIENCE OF PUBLIC
UNFINISHED BUSINESS

1. A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING A PART TIME POLICE OFFICER POSITION
WITHIN THE POLICE DEPARTMENT, AND COMPENSATION RATES FOR THAT
POSITION, TO BE ADDED TO THE CLASSIFICATION AND WAGE PLAN. (Second
Reading)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 17th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
NEW BUSINESS
LEGISLATION

1. A RESOLUTION ADOPTING AN EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN FOR THE CITY
OF TRENTON AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (First Reading)
2. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1242.01 DEFINITIONS, ROADSIDE STAND
OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO. (First
Reading)
3. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1258.02 HOME OCCUPATIONS OF THE
CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO. (First Reading)
4. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1258.04 ACCESSORY BUILDINGS,
STRUCTURES AND USES OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF
TRENTON, OHIO. (First Reading)
REPORTS
AUDIENCE OF COUNCIL
ADJOURNMENT

City Council Work Session Agenda MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026
6:30 pm
Mayor Perry
i. To Consider confidential information that is directly related to a request
for economic development assistance under any provision identified in
Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)(8), or that involves public infrastructure
improvements or the extension of utility services that are directly related
to an economic development project, as 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 and to confer with legal counsel. (AWS and Township Discussion)
Motion – To Go To Executive Session For The Reasons Stated
(Roll Call Vote) 1st____ Mr. Roark _______ 2nd Mr. Nichols_ Time: 6:39 PM
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Proffitt, Roark, Butts
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
a.

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

Council motioned unanimously to move to executive session.

Motion – That executive session be adjourned
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______ 2nd _ Time:
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Proffitt, Roark, Butts
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.

Floyd Croucher Ray Nichols

Ryan Perry
Mayor
Austin Proffitt Ken Roark

Vice Mayor

Council Member

Council Member

Marci Butts

Council Member Council Member

Sharon Montgomery
Council Member

CALL TO ORDER
PRAYER

1. Councilwoman Montgomery
ROLL CALL
Present: Perry, Proffitt, Croucher, Nichols, Butts, Roark, Montgomery
Absent:

(7)
(0)

PRESENTATIONS

1. Miami Erie Young Marines Proclamation
2. Flock Presentation
a. Chief Carr provided a presentation regarding the Trenton Police Department’s
use of Flock license plate reader and vehicle recognition technology. He stated
that there was a large amount of information to cover and that, after reviewing
the material with Lieutenant Austin Scott and Police Department staff, it may be
helpful to hold a future town hall or open house where the topic could be
discussed in more detail outside of a regular Council agenda. Chief Carr also
noted that residents could speak with him at Coffee with a Cop. Chief Carr
explained that Flock is a license plate reader and vehicle recognition system and
stated that similar technologies are offered by other companies as well. He
stated that Flock provides value to the department because it can be installed
quickly, provide immediate results, and assist with investigations. Chief Carr
reviewed national information regarding the number of cameras and
communities using the technology, as well as reported investigative uses
involving missing persons and criminal cases. He stated that he had not yet fully
reviewed the underlying study referenced in the presentation but wanted to
provide the information available. Chief Carr acknowledged that there are trust
concerns surrounding license plate reader technology due to misuse incidents in
other jurisdictions, and he explained that the Police Department is reviewing and
tightening controls on its system. He stated that updated controls include
required case codes, use of offense types, mandatory misuse detection,
abnormal activity lockouts, explicit sharing controls, and offense filtering. Chief
Carr stated that the department reviewed access to Trenton’s cameras and
removed or restricted certain categories, including city infrastructure surveys,
traffic offenses, immigration, and other low-level purposes, so that Trenton’s
cameras cannot be used for those purposes. Chief Carr also discussed success
stories involving the system, including an aggravated robbery at First Financial
Bank, an indecent exposure investigation near Speedway and McDonald’s,
stolen vehicles, domestic violence cases, arson investigations, violation of
protection orders, accident reports, and a missing person case in which the
system helped determine that the individual had been involved in a crash and

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
transported to the hospital. Chief Carr stated that every search requires a
registered user ID and offense type, that searches are saved in a permanent
audit trail, and that administrators can review who used the system and why. He
stated that the system captures publicly visible information from the rear of
vehicles, including the license plate, and does not capture vehicle occupants or
use facial recognition technology. Chief Carr stated that stored data is encrypted
to FBI criminal justice security standards. Chief Carr also reviewed department
usage statistics, stating that year-to-date vehicle reads from Flock cameras in
Trenton totaled 11,728,634 and that the department had performed 2,616
searches. He stated that the statistics demonstrate that the system is used very
rarely compared to the number of vehicle reads, but that it provides significant
investigative value when used. During the presentation, audience members
asked questions regarding the transparency portal, whether residents could
search license plates, the number and cost of cameras, data storage, system
security, access by other agencies, and potential misuse. Chief Carr stated that
the department is still learning the updated transparency portal features and
wants to make additional information available online when possible. He stated
that Trenton has 11 total Flock cameras, including two live-feed cameras
located at the roundabout and at Wayne Madison Road and State Street
because those are high-accident locations. Chief Carr stated that data is
currently stored for 30 days and that improper searches would be taken
seriously, noting that users must have a user ID, offense code, and call-forservice or report number, and must explain the reason for the inquiry. He stated
that if a member of the Trenton Police Department were found to be improperly
using the system, the matter would be referred for prosecution and the
employee would be terminated. Chief Carr also stated that Flock does not
independently identify the owner of a vehicle, and that officers must use a
separate law enforcement database to obtain that information, which has its
own testing, access, and compliance requirements. In response to questions
about privacy and whether the system is worth the cost, Chief Carr stated that
the cameras collect information visible from a public street and that, in his view,
the investigative benefits justify the system. He also referenced the broader
concept of social contract theory, stating that communities sometimes accept
limited tradeoffs for broader public safety benefits. Mayor noted that the
discussion was becoming philosophical and stated that there may be a deeper
conversation about the issue at a later time because Flock and similar
technology have become a national topic of debate. Mayor stated that the City
accepted the program around 2022 or 2023 and that, now that the issue has
become a larger public concern, the City will continue to review and research it.
(The Entire Presentation Can Be Viewed By Clicking Here)
3. Development and Annexation Presentation
a. Councilman Proffitt introduced the annexation and economic development
presentation and stated that both the earlier Flock presentation and the
annexation presentation were requested as informational items intended to help
Council and the public learn more about the issues, not to sway anyone’s
opinion, and he thanked staff for the time spent preparing the presentations.
Mr. Mesisklis stated that the presentation would provide additional detail

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
regarding recent economic development discussions, including conversations
between the City, Amazon Web Services, the townships, and Butler County, as
well as the timeline of events, the nature of annexations, and the City’s
annexation history. He stated that staff reviewed emails, County Auditor records,
County Recorder records, and other source materials to compile the information,
and he began by referencing a Theodore Roosevelt quote regarding the balance
between development and conservation, stating that the issue before Council
was whether a potential AWS project under City supervision could appropriately
balance economic and environmental protection. City Manager Nichols and Mr.
Mesisklis reviewed a map showing areas annexed into the City since the mid1990s, including areas annexed at the request of private landowners and areas
owned by the City at the time of annexation. They explained that certain
expedited annexations allow the township to retain 1.62 mills of property tax
even after the property enters the City limits, and staff reviewed examples of
prior annexations, including familiar locations such as Barn-N-Bunk, Shape
Corporation, Trenton Community Park, the Duke Energy area, and property
associated with the Trenton Mennonite Church cemetery. Mr. Mesisklis
explained that the Barn-N-Bunk annexation was requested to obtain access to
City sewage treatment infrastructure and that Wayne Township participated in
the expedited annexation process to retain a portion of property tax revenue. Mr.
Mesisklis discussed why the City accepts annexation requests, including job
retention, commercial and amenity growth, utility customer cost diffusion, public
safety revenue, and school funding. He stated that new development can help
spread infrastructure and service costs across a larger base. He also discussed
declining school enrollment and stated that residential growth can help support
enrollment while commercial development can provide revenue without adding
students. Staff reviewed Quail Hollow as an example of prior residential
annexation and stated that the neighborhood generates annual revenue for
both the school district and the City. City Manager Nichols and Mr. Mesisklis
reviewed the history of the City’s industrial park, including prior land purchases
and sales involving the U.S. Army Reserve, RV Nation, Carvana, Shape
Corporation, Prologis, and the Proeschel Farm property. Staff explained that the
City used bond proceeds and land sale proceeds to purchase and expand the
industrial park over time, rather than using general fund, income tax, or property
tax revenues for those acquisitions. City Manager Nichols stated that proceeds
from prior industrial park land sales were reinvested into additional property to
continue expanding the industrial park and supporting job retention and
economic development. Mr. Beresford provided historical and comprehensive
planning context, stating that Trenton’s growth discussions did not begin with
the current development proposal. He discussed Trenton’s early settlement
history and stated that the City’s modern growth policy was later formalized
through comprehensive planning. Mr. Beresford stated that the City began its
comprehensive planning process in the mid-2000s and adopted its current
Trenton 2050 Comprehensive Plan in 2023. He stated that both the older
comprehensive plan and the current plan contemplated annexation as a
planning tool, with the earlier plan referencing controlled annexation to support
future population trends and the current plan referencing annexation, when
appropriate, for business and industrial growth to the south. He stated that

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
annexation is not a new direction, but a longstanding component of the City’s
comprehensive growth policy. Mr. Beresford also discussed public notice and
transparency, stating that claims regarding transparency should be evaluated
through the public record, including public discussion, legislative readings,
Planning Commission review, legal publication, and public hearings. He stated
that public access is not the same as personal delivery and compared the City’s
website and public records to a grocery store where information is available, but
residents still need to access it or ask staff for assistance. He stated that
residents can access City information through agendas, meeting packets,
minutes, public hearings, legal advertisements, electronic notices, and online
resources. Mr. Beresford also stated that the City clarified its preference that
legal advertisements be requested for publication in the Journal-News going
forward, after questions were raised about a legal notice appearing in a different
publication. He also noted the City’s four-star rating for open and transparent
government and reviewed where agendas and minutes are located on the City
website. Mr. Mesisklis then introduced the negotiation timeline, stating that the
townships and county have taken their responsibilities seriously and have
sought to secure benefits related to the potential AWS development. He stated
that the City agreed early in the process on the non-financial protections,
including stormwater, road maintenance, water, wastewater, noise, and related
quality-of-life provisions. He stated that the remaining disagreement became
financial in nature and also involved the townships’ requested limitation on
future annexation petitions. City Manager Nichols reviewed earlier timeline
items, including the JobsOhio and Butler County Development meeting regarding
the Proeschel Farm property, public hearings on zoning matters, resident
concerns regarding water and tax revenue, a data center site visit, and
discussions with the townships and county regarding a benefit agreement or
make-whole TIF. Mr. Mesisklis reviewed the financial negotiations between the
City and the townships. He stated that the City agreed to make the townships
whole for the 1.62 mills associated with expedited annexations and later offered
additional millage above that amount. He also stated that the City offered
compensation to Madison Township for lost revenue associated with Duke
Energy and discussed additional proposed payments to Madison Local Schools
and New Miami Local Schools. Mr. Mesisklis stated that the townships
requested additional financial terms, including payments related to Boozembark
Road and a temporary prohibition on certain annexations, while the City
remained unwilling to limit the property rights of other landowners who may wish
to petition for annexation into the City. He stated that AWS had agreed to make
certain payments to the townships and that the City’s final offer included four
mills to each township, funding for Boozembark Road through AWS, and
continued school make-whole provisions. City Manager Nichols and Mr.
Mesisklis reviewed the non-financial terms that had been agreed upon
throughout the process, including stormwater containment, noise limits,
setbacks, berms, landscaping, road maintenance agreements, traffic flow
review, mitigation of road damage, construction traffic controls, infrastructure
studies, no direct aquifer access, and payment for Duke Energy upgrades. Mr.
Mesisklis stated that many of those protections were raised through township
input and legal counsel familiar with data center development, and that the City

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
accepted those protections as part of the development discussions. Mr.
Mesisklis also reviewed tax structure and TIF-related information. He explained
the difference between the City’s proposed TIF approach and township TIF
filings, including the townships’ use of a 10-year, 75% TIF under Ohio Revised
Code Section 5709.73(B). He stated that the township TIF structure does not
require school district approval if it remains within statutory thresholds and
noted that, although townships had verbally stated an intent to make schools
whole, that language was not included in the resolutions reviewed by staff. Mr.
Mesisklis compared the projected revenue distribution under current conditions,
annexation, the City’s final offer, and township TIF scenarios, stating that if
annexation does not occur, the City would receive no direct revenue from the
development. Staff then reviewed frequently asked questions regarding the
practical effect of annexation. It was explained that if the property remains in
the townships, township zoning and applicable township, county, and state rules
would apply. If annexed, Trenton zoning standards would apply, including
standards for setbacks, building height, noise, landscaping, water, wastewater,
and other site impacts. Staff stated that annexation affects more than the map
because it changes the applicable zoning rules, utility requirements, revenue
distribution, and local governance structure. Staff also reviewed questions
regarding infrastructure costs, water and sewer rates, noise, electricity, property
values, backup generators, and oversight. It was stated that the developer would
be responsible for new infrastructure costs and that, based on current
projections, the data centers would use less than 15% of the City’s current water
capacity at full buildout. Staff stated that the project would be subject to noise
thresholds, independent acoustic monitoring, and enforcement mechanisms.
Staff also discussed Amazon’s ratepayer protection pledge, utility-cost studies,
Ohio’s approved data center tariff structure, and a George Mason University
study regarding data centers and residential property values. Staff further stated
that backup generators would be used for grid failures and limited testing, that
environmental and acoustic reports would be conducted by independent third
parties and published on the City website, and that residents would have access
to a 24/7 community liaison hotline for complaints or concerns. Mayor Perry
thanked staff for the presentation and stated that it was thorough. He stated
that the presentation helped explain what had been occurring behind the
scenes and that the City was now at a point where more information could be
released. Councilman Nichols then commented that the City’s need for a new
water tower had been identified in the earlier comprehensive planning process
and was not created by the Prologis project. He also stated that the current level
of community involvement is encouraging and expressed hope that even more
residents participate when the City undertakes its next comprehensive planning
process. (The Entire Presentation Can Be Viewed By Click Here)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES

1. Minutes of the August 20th Council Work Session
2. Minutes of the August 20th Regular Council Meeting
Motion –To Approve The Minutes of the August 20th Council Work Session and Regular Council Meeting
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Mr. Nichols 2nd Vice Mayor Croucher_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion –Motion to accept items 1, 2 and 4 Under The Consent Agenda
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Mr. Proffitt_______ 2nd Ms. Butts_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

1. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A PURCHASE AGREEMENT
WITH MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS FOR THE PURPOSE OF INSTALLING NEW ANTENNAS AND
ACCESSORIES AT THE NEW MUNICIPAL BUILDING, SUPPORTING THE BUTLER COUNTY
RADIO NETWORK IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED SEVENTY-SEVEN THOUSAND EIGHT
HUNDRED FIFTY-FIVE DOLLARS. ($77,855.00), AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER
TO SIGN ALL DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
2. A MOTION APPROVING EMPLOYMENT AGREEMETN (EXHIBIT A), FIXING COMPENSATION
OF THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO STEP G OF THE CITY DIRECTORS’ PAY SCALE,
PROVIDING CERTAIN BENEFITS, AND REQURING A TERM OF SERVICE EXPIRING NOT
BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 2028.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
3. A MOTION DONATING $50,000 TO THE EDGEWOOD CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR THE
PURPOSES OF INSURANCE REIMBURSEMENT ($5,000) AND SUPPORTING THE
EDGEWOOD ATHLETIC BOOSTERS ($45,000) FROM THE CITY OF TRENTON GENERAL
FUND.
Motion –Motion To Amend Item 3 on the agenda to separate the following motion to two different
motions to authorize two different payments

(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher _______ 2nd Mr. Proffitt_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

a. A MOTION DONATING $5,000 TO THE EDGEWOOD SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR THE
PURPOSE OF INSURANCE REIMBURSEMENT FROM THE CITY OF TRENTON.
a. Mayor Perry stated that Council was aware of a water issue at Baybeck and
that, after investigation, it was determined that the City had made an error.
He explained that although the matter was later reviewed through the
insurance process and the City was not found legally liable, the school
district had paid its deductible. Mayor stated that Council felt the City should
reimburse the school district for the deductible because the City believed it
was responsible for the underlying issue and that reimbursement was the
appropriate thing to do. Mr. Mesisklis stated that the City informed both
insurance companies from the outset that the issue was the City’s fault;
however, because of the way public insurance works between two public
entities, the school district’s insurance paid the claim and the City’s
insurance was not required to pay. Mr. Mesisklis stated that the item before
Council was to reimburse the school district for its deductible.
Motion –Motion To Accept
(Roll Call Vote) 1st_____Ms. Butts____ 2nd Vice Mayor Croucher_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

b. A MOTION TO DONATE $45,000 TO THE EDGEWOOD ATHLETIC BOOSTERS FROM
THE CITY OF TRENTON GENERAL FUND.
a. Mayor Perry discussed a proposed donation related to Edgewood student
athletics and stated that, after attending several sporting events, he became
aware that at least one team was concerned about whether it would be able
to continue the following year because pay-to-play fees were too high for
some students and families. Mayor stated that he discussed the matter with
Mr. Mesisklis and that, through prior financial decisions, the City had saved
funds that had been budgeted for another purpose but were no longer
needed for that expense. Mayor stated that the proposed donation was

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
intended to help support Edgewood athletics and allow students to continue
participating in sports, particularly students who may otherwise be unable to
afford the pay-to-play cost. Councilman Nichols asked whether the City had a
commitment from Edgewood that the donation would eliminate pay-to-play
fees. Mayor stated that the City did not have such a commitment and that
the proposed amount may not be enough to cover all pay-to-play costs for all
students, but that it could help reduce costs or assist students with financial
need. Mr. Mesisklis stated that the original discussion had involved the
Edgewood Athletic Boosters, but he was not certain whether the donation
would go through the boosters or the school district itself. Councilman
Proffitt noted that he would like more information before voting and that, if
the City is going to donate $45,000, he would like to see $45,000
specifically used to reduce pay-to-play fees. Mayor stated that he could
discuss that with the school treasurer. Councilman Nichols stated that the
Edgewood Athletic Boosters is registered with the Ohio Attorney General’s
Office as a nonprofit and is separate from the school district. Mayor stated
that Council could table the matter if Council desired additional information
before taking action.

Motion –Motion To Table The Following Motion
(Roll Call Vote) 1st____ Vice Mayor Croucher ____ 2nd Mr. Nichols_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

4. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH
NORMAC COMPANY, LLC IN THE AMOUNT OF ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY THOUSAND
DOLLARS ($160,000.00) FOR ASPHALT PAVEMENT REHABILITATION WORK ON PEYTON
DRIVE, JOHN ALLEY, GREG ALLEY AND WHITEY’S ALLEY, FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
a. Mayor Perry requested that an ordinance be added to the agenda providing for
submission of the proposed Charter amendment adding Article IX, Section 9.06 to
the City Charter to the electors of the City of Trenton at a special election to be held
on November 3, 2026, directing certification to the Butler County Board of
Elections, and declaring an emergency. Mr. Ziepfel explained that the ordinance was
not included on the original agenda because the agenda had been posted the prior
Friday, and the City did not receive direction regarding placement of the matter on a
special election ballot until Tuesday afternoon following the Ohio Supreme Court’s
order. He stated that the City then contacted the Butler County Board of Elections to
confirm the proper procedure because the Board of Elections, not City Council or
City staff, administers the election. Mr. Ziepfel stated that there were questions
regarding whether the matter could be placed on the November 3 ballot due to
applicable election statutes and the unusual posture of the case. He further stated

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
that the City received a response that day through delivery from the Sheriff on
behalf of the County Prosecutor, but that the response was not received in time to
amend the agenda before the meeting. Mr. Ziepfel stated that the legislation had
been prepared and was before Council for consideration.

Motion –Motion To Amend The Agenda (The Following Legislation Is Listed Under Legislation Under the
Minutes Along With The Votes)

(Roll Call Vote) 1st____ Ms. Butts____ 2nd Ms. Montgomery_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

CORRESPONDENCE
AUDIENCE OF PUBLIC
Mayor explained the rules for the Audience of the Public portion of the meeting. He stated that,
in order to keep meetings to a reasonable length and preserve decorum, speakers should not
personally attack members of the public or Council, and that comments should be addressed to
Council as a whole rather than to individual members. Mayor stated that public comment is
open to all, but Trenton taxpayers and individuals who sign up using their legal names will be
given priority to speak. He explained that the person at the lectern has the floor during their
allotted time and that no one else should speak during that time. After a speaker has finished,
Council or staff may answer questions if they wish. Mayor stated that while there is no set time
limit, speakers should be respectful of the time so that everyone has an opportunity to speak.
He also stated that Council and staff will not answer theoretical questions, and that if litigation is
mentioned, the matter will be directed to Mr. Ziepfel and no comment will be made by staff.
Mayor stated that he would ask Council whether they wished to respond after each speaker had
concluded. Mayor noted that he was reminded that he has the ability to limit cursing he added
he did not discuss that with council and he believes that should be agreed upon he did note that
he wanted those who are speaking to be respectful.
John Glenn, 3191 Wayne Madison Road – Mr. Glenn addressed Mayor and Council regarding
the proposed data center development, township TIF actions, road impacts, the Trenton Solar
Project, and related community concerns. Mr. Glenn stated that he had attended St. Clair
Township and Madison Township meetings and believed the township TIFs were adopted
because township officials felt the data center and annexation discussions were being pushed
on them and that they were trying to protect their communities. He stated that, in his view, St.
Clair Township does not want the data centers and that he had that position in writing. Mr. Glenn
also stated that the request to repave Boozembark Road was related to current dump truck
traffic from the existing data center site, which he stated is damaging the road. Mr. Glenn then
asked about the Trenton Solar Project, stating that he believed the City and residents had been
misled because the project sign uses the Trenton name even though St. Clair Township,
Madison Township, and the County have regulations related to solar farms. He asked how the
project was able to proceed if those zoning restrictions were in place. Mr. Glenn also raised
concerns regarding potential road maintenance, the possibility of an overpass near Wayne
Madison Road, impacts to nearby homes, and what would be done for the community. He stated
that school funding alone should not be used as the justification for the project if residents with

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
children are ultimately pushed out of the area. Mr. Glenn also expressed concern regarding
generator noise and emissions, stating that based on his experience with diesel engines, he did
not believe the generators could be reduced to the noise levels discussed and that he was
concerned about exhaust and air quality impacts. Mayor responded that he was also surprised
by the Trenton Solar Project and stated that nothing related to that project had come before
Council or the City’s zoning process because the project is not located within the City of Trenton.
Mayor stated that the use of the Trenton name does not necessarily mean a project or business
is located within City limits, referencing other examples in the area. Staff stated that the project
appears to be located in Madison Township and may have proceeded through county-related
zoning or approval processes. It was also stated that the County’s solar restriction may apply
only above a certain megawatt threshold and that the solar project may be below that threshold,
although staff noted that they had not reviewed the full record. Mayor stated that he had spoken
with Mr. Willoughby and that Mr. Willoughby was also unaware of the project at the time. Staff
noted that, based on information heard informally, the project may be associated with Miller
Brewing, but that this had not been confirmed.
Jake Davis – Mr. Davis addressed Mayor and Council regarding the use of surveillance
technology and stated that, earlier in the week, he had emailed a proposed model surveillance
technology accountability ordinance to each member of Council, the City Attorney, and the City
Clerk. Mr. Davis stated that he submitted the proposal before the meeting because he wanted to
provide Council with a possible solution before the discussion occurred. He stated that he
shares concerns with others who would prefer that these systems not be used, but that if the
City is going to use them, clear rules should be established. Mr. Davis stated that the issue
should not be reduced to simply asking residents to trust the government or assume that people
with nothing to hide have nothing to fear. He explained that the proposed ordinance is intended
to create rules that remain in place even when the individuals holding City positions change. Mr.
Davis emphasized that the proposal is not anti-technology, anti-police, or anti-public safety, but
rather pro-responsible technology. He stated that if Flock is being used for legitimate public
safety purposes, those purposes should be placed in writing, and if the data is secure and not
being improperly shared, the City should establish written rules for access, auditing, sharing,
retention, and cost transparency. Mr. Davis further stated that the proposal is not limited to
Flock, because technology continues to evolve and future systems could include facial
recognition, biometric surveillance, drones, gunshot detection, or other technologies not yet
contemplated. He stated that Trenton should establish a framework now rather than writing new
rules each time a new surveillance technology is introduced. Mayor stated that he had read the
proposed ordinance, that much of it made sense, and that he would provide it to Mr. Ziepfel and
Chief Carr for review. Councilman Proffitt thanked Chief Carr for the presentation and stated that
he had not yet reviewed everything Mr. Davis submitted, but agreed with many of the points and
believed Council should consider parameters to ensure the technology is used appropriately.
Councilman Proffitt also asked for patience from the public, stating that when Flock cameras
were first considered in 2023, he had concerns and considered voting against them, but
received criticism that he was anti-police. He stated that public views on the issue have changed
quickly and thanked residents for expressing their concerns civilly. Councilman Proffitt stated
that if Council wishes to move forward with rules governing the technology, it should do so, while
recognizing that technology often changes faster than legislation.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Barry Blankenship – Mr. Blankenship addressed Mayor and Council and stated that he was
upset and concerned with the tone and conduct of recent Council meetings, including
arguments, individuals being removed from meetings, videos being shown, and political
comments being made. Mr. Blankenship stated that he believed those incidents reflected poorly
on the community and its leaders and asked that they not happen again. He also stated that the
Charter amendment issue should have been placed before the voters when it was first
proposed, and that he did not believe taxpayer money should have been spent litigating the
matter before the Ohio Supreme Court. Mr. Blankenship then spoke regarding the proposed
data centers, stating that he does not understand why some members of Council support them
when many residents have expressed opposition. He urged Council to listen to residents and
stated that the issue has damaged the City’s reputation. Councilman Roark responded that
meetings become difficult when people become angry, use inappropriate language, or make
accusations, and stated that he also does not like when meetings get out of control. He stated
that residents will now have the opportunity to vote and that everyone should be prepared to
accept the result, regardless of whether the vote goes their preferred way. Councilman Roark
also stated that Council listens to public comments each meeting, even when Council members
are criticized, and asked that Council and staff be shown the same respect. Councilman Nichols
also responded and stated that he had never opposed residents voting on the issue. He stated
that his concern was based on his oath to uphold the City Charter and his interpretation of the
Charter at the time of the vote. Councilman Nichols stated that he was not elected as a judge,
that interpretation of the law is ultimately the role of the Supreme Court, and that Council would
now follow the Court’s direction.
Larry Falcon – Mr. Falcon addressed Mayor and Council and stated that he lives in Cincinnati
and was speaking on behalf of the Sierra Club Miami Group. He stated that the Sierra Club is a
national environmental organization and that the Miami Group is its Southwest Ohio affiliate,
with members in the City of Trenton. Mr. Falcon stated that he was speaking in support of
W.A.T.E.R. and in opposition to the proposed data centers. He stated that the Sierra Club Miami
Group has adopted a position paper on data centers, which he intended to share with Council by
email. Mr. Falcon explained that the position paper recognizes that data centers can be
developed well or poorly, and that a well-designed project can be a community asset while a
poorly designed project can become a community liability. He stated that factors to consider
include the source of power, emergency power generation, water source, wastewater disposal,
revenue distribution, and open decision-making. Mr. Falcon stated that, in his view, the data
center proposals under discussion fail several of those tests. He encouraged Council to review
the position paper and evaluate the details of the proposed development, stating that while
annexation and growth may be important, not every development or annexation is necessarily
beneficial. He stated that opposition to this project should not be viewed as anti-growth, but
rather as opposition to this specific type of growth. Mayor stated that he would be interested in
meeting with Mr. Falcon to discuss what a data center project would need to look like in order to
be considered a community asset. Mayor stated that one of Council’s concerns is that, if the
property is not annexed into the City, Trenton may lose the ability to shape the project or apply
City standards if it is developed. Mr. Falcon stated that he would be happy to have a more indepth discussion, and Mayor stated that he would provide him with a card.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
David Ziegler – Mr. Ziegler addressed Mayor and Council regarding the City’s farm stand
ordinance and stated that he was encouraged to receive an email from Mr. Bridge in response to
concerns he raised at the prior meeting. Mr. Ziegler referenced Section 1258.04 of the City
ordinances, which he stated restricts farm stands from being placed in required front or side
yards and limits them to the rear yard of a residence. He stated that this is the specific provision
he would like Council to consider changing, noting that the ordinance appears to have been
adopted in May 2003 and, in his view, should be reconsidered. Mr. Ziegler stated that he
understands reasonable restrictions would be appropriate if Council permits farm stands in front
yards. He said he would support requirements related to neighborhood aesthetics, including
color or appearance standards, as well as height and width limits to address traffic visibility. He
also stated that he would support requiring the stand to be mobile, prohibiting it from remaining
roadside overnight, prohibiting produce or other products from being left out overnight,
establishing hours of operation such as 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and requiring a trash receptacle
at the stand to help prevent litter and protect neighboring properties.
Nicholas Owens – Mr. Owens addressed Mayor and Council and stated that he represents the
petitioners who brought the matter before the Ohio Supreme Court and that he drafted the
petition for the proposed Charter amendment to be placed on the November 3 ballot. Mr. Owens
stated that the petition was modeled after a statewide petition effort regarding data centers and
thanked Council for placing the matter on the ballot. He stated that, in his view, the Ohio
Supreme Court’s decision confirmed that Council had a constitutional duty to submit the
proposed amendment to the voters once the signatures were verified and that the 10%
threshold is based on the last municipal election. Mr. Owens also discussed Ohio’s home rule
authority and municipal charters, referencing the 1912 Ohio Constitutional Convention and
stating that municipal charters cannot supersede the Ohio Constitution. He stated that he
believed Council should have placed the issue on the ballot earlier and that residents should not
have had to pursue litigation before the Ohio Supreme Court. Mr. Owens also thanked Mr.
Gmoser for his role in providing direction related to the matter and stated that placing the
amendment on the ballot would allow Trenton voters to decide the issue. Councilman Roark
asked whether the relevant case law dated back to 1995. Mr. Ziepfel provided clarification and
Councilman Roark stated that he is new to the issue and understood the relevant legal history to
involve a 1995 decision regarding the definition of electors.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Erika Updike (Liberty Township) – Ms. Updike addressed Mayor and Council regarding road
impacts, historic properties, the proposed data center development, and meeting decorum. Ms.
Updike stated that although some roadway questions may ultimately be directed to the Butler
County Engineer’s Office, she was concerned that widening roads such as Woodsdale Road
could significantly impact nearby homes, historic structures, and surrounding properties. She
stated that road expansion could affect Woodsdale Road, Augspurger Road, Camp Kern, and
other nearby areas, and asked whether Camp Kern had been contacted regarding the potential
impacts of data center development near the camp. Ms. Updike also raised concerns about a
historic Fenner home and a possible unmarked family cemetery on the property, stating that she
believed the area may have historical significance to Trenton and the surrounding community.
She stated that, in her view, the proposed development differs from the incremental
development that shaped the area historically because it involves large-scale development by
out-of-state developers. Ms. Updike also commented on meeting decorum and stated that
respect must be earned. She expressed concern that members of Council had laughed, smirked,
or made comments while members of the public were speaking, and she referenced a prior
Council meeting statement that she felt was directed at residents watching online. Councilman
Roark responded that he believed he was the Council member who made the quoted statement
and stated that he stood by it. He stated that, in his view, people sometimes hear what they
want to hear, and that he has the right to express his opinion.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Motion –Motion to read Item 1 Under Unfinished Business By Title Only
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Mr. Nichols 2nd Ms. Butts_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

1. AN ORDINANCE THAT THE CITY OF TRENTON WILL PICK UP THE STATUTORILY REQUIRED
CONTRIBUTION TO THE OHIO PUBLIC EMPLOYEES RETIREMENT SYSTEM FOR THE
EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY OF TRENTON PURSUANT TO IRC SECTION 414(H)(2) (Second
Reading)
Motion – The Ordinance Be Approved
(Roll Call Vote) 1st_____ Vice Mayor Croucher 2nd Mr. Roark_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. None.
NEW BUSINESS

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
LEGISLATION

*Added Via Voice Motion Listed Under Legislation For Clarity*
AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR SUBMISSION OF THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT ADDING
ARTICLE IX, SECTION 9.06 TO THE CHARTER TO THE ELECTORS OF THE CITY OF TRENTON
AT A SPECIAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 2026, DIRECTING CERTIFICATION
TO THE BUTLER COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (First
Reading, Suspend Rules)
Motion –Motion To Suspend The Required Two Readings
(Roll Call Vote) 1st_____ Mr. Proffitt _______ 2nd Ms. Butts
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

Motion –Motion To Adopt The Ordinance
(Roll Call Vote) 1st_____ Mr. Proffitt _______ 2nd Ms. Butts
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

Motion –Motion to Read Items 1 and 2 under legislation by title only
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher______ 2nd Ms. Butts
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

1. A RESOLUTION DETERMINING THAT THE PETITION FOR THE ORGANIZATION OF THE
TRENTON SQUARE COMMUNITY AUTHORITY COMPLIES AS TO FORM AND SUBSTANCE
WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 349.03 OF THE OHIO REVISED CODE AND TO
FIX A DATE AND PLACE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING ON THAT PETITION, AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY. (First Reading, Suspend Rules)
a. Mr. Ziepfel discussed the proposed Trenton Square New Community Authority
and stated that his partner, Mr. Xanders, could provide additional detail if
needed. He explained that the petition relates only to the Trenton Square
community and the approximately 87-acre development area. Mr. Ziepfel stated
that a New Community Authority is a special-purpose public entity created for a
defined development area to help collect revenues used to pay for public
infrastructure associated with that development. He explained that the authority
may collect charges equivalent to real estate taxes and use those funds for
public infrastructure such as roads, sewers, and other improvements in the
development area. Mr. Ziepfel also stated that the charges would still support
shared City services, including police, fire, public works, and other general fund

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
needs, and are not necessarily limited only to the development site. Mr.
Mesisklis added that some New Community Authorities have broader powers,
referencing Liberty Center as an example where an additional sales tax charge is
used for items such as private security and parking facilities. He stated that the
proposed Trenton Square New Community Authority is more limited and does
not include an additional sales tax or similar charge. Mr. Mesisklis stated that
the revenues are primarily intended to support fire services and the City building
bonds associated with the YMCA portion of the project.
Motion – Motion To Suspend The Rules And The Resolution Is Voted On Tonight
(Roll Call Vote) 1st_____ Mr. Nichols_______ 2nd Vice Mayor Croucher
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

Motion – The Resolution Be Approved
(Roll Call Vote) 1st_____ Mr. Roark______ 2nd Mr. Nichols
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

2. A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING A PART TIME POLICE OFFICER POSITION WITHIN THE
POLICE DEPARTMENT, AND COMPENSATION RATES FOR THAT POSITION, TO BE ADDED
TO THE CLASSIFICATION AND WAGE PLAN. (First Reading)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
REPORTS

Clerk of Council Stanislav Beresford – Mr. Beresford reported that the City is still accepting
applications for the Parks Board. He also stated that there are upcoming openings on the
Board of Utility Appeals and that staff will post application information for those position
Finance Director Matthew Mesisklis - Mr. Mesisklis stated that he did not have a formal
report but wished to make two brief comments. First, he stated that although the
roundabout has been identified as the most crash-involved roundabout in the county,
information from the Engineer’s Office indicates that crashes at that intersection have been
greatly reduced and traffic flow has substantially improved compared to the previous
configuration. He stated that the roundabout remains a positive safety improvement despite
the number of reported crashes. Mr. Mesisklis also stated that the earlier Young Marines
presentation reminded him of his younger cousin, who serves in the Army, and he
congratulated her on a recent achievement.
City Manager Marcos Nichols - City Manager Nichols wished Ms. Montgomery a happy
belated birthday and provided project updates to Mayor and Council. Regarding Trenton
Square and the new City building, he stated that the parking lot proof roll passed, stone is
down and compacted, and concrete curbs and walks are being formed and poured on the
west and north sides. He stated that block masons are installing interior walls, interior walls
are being installed in the administration section, exterior brick work continues, concrete
flower planters are installed, column pours will follow the planters, and gas service has been
connected. City Manager Nichols stated that the building remains on track to be dried in,
meaning the roofing, windows, and doors installed, by early September. He reported that
Basin 3 is complete and that sidewalks are approximately 50% installed along the collector
roads. Regarding off-site improvements, City Manager Nichols stated that there was an
ordering issue with the electrician subcontractor for the traffic lights at the Edgewood Drive
and State Street intersection, causing the lights to be on backorder with an approximately
ten-week delay. He stated that staff is reviewing a potential Plan B involving stop signs on
Edgewood Drive to remove the construction traffic entrance and allow the residential
developer to continue grading, with construction traffic moving to Edgewood Drive. He
stated that the Service Department and Police Department are discussing the most
appropriate way to handle the intersection. City Manager Nichols also reported that elevated
water tower tank parts are being mobilized, quotes are still being obtained for the missing
sidewalk on Hamilton Trenton Road, and the City is waiting on a letter of recommendation to
award the EV charging station project before bringing it to Council. He stated that the urban
paving project, which is the ODOT State Street project, is scheduled for final milling and
paving beginning the week of September 8. Regarding the Safe Haven Baby Box project, he
stated that staff is still seeking three quotes from preferred installers to better understand
the total cost and that the box is in production. City Manager Nichols also stated that the
2026 local paving pre-construction meeting will occur the following week, which will provide
a better understanding of project timelines, and that the 2026 OPWC waterline replacement
project pre-construction meeting is scheduled for the following day. He concluded by stating
that the 301 State Street demolition project is currently in the ten-day health notice period
for asbestos abatement and that demolition will follow.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.

AUDIENCE OF COUNCIL

Mr. Roark – Mr. Roark thanked everyone for staying through the meeting and stated that he
appreciated the public’s attendance on a long evening. He stated that he enjoyed the
presentations and noted that Council reviews significant amounts of information during
meetings and executive sessions before making decisions for the community. Councilman
Roark stated that Council does its best to make informed decisions. He also commented on
the Flock camera discussion, stating that he was surprised by the level of concern because
many people already carry phones that track location information. Councilman Roark thanked
everyone for attending and stated that he felt positive about the outcome of the meeting
because residents will have a voice on the issue. He stated that he hopes something good
comes from the process and that, going forward, residents continue to have a voice in matters
that come before the City.
Ms. Butts – Ms. Butts thanked staff and Chief Carr for the presentations. She also thanked
Councilman Proffitt for requesting additional discussion on the issues so that the information
could be addressed. Ms. Butts further thanked Council for allowing voters to vote on the
Charter amendment in the November election.
Mr. Proffitt- Mr. Proffitt thanked staff for their work on the reports and presentations, stating
that he knew staff had spent a significant amount of time preparing the information. He
specifically thanked Mr. Beresford and stated that, while residents may have frustrations with
Council, Mr. Beresford does a good job and should be shown respect while speaking.
Councilman Proffitt also commented on the Flock camera presentation, stating that Flock
cameras are a significant public issue and that Council’s intent was to address the matter
proactively. He noted that the cameras have been in the City for several years and that Council
wanted public input regarding their use. Councilman Proffitt also referenced the ordinance
submitted by Mr. Davis and stated that reviewing it is part of Council’s effort to be more
transparent moving forward.
Ms. Montgomery- Ms. Montgomery stated that she was grateful to still be alive and reflected
on her birthday. She shared that her mother had often told her that the day she was born was
extremely hot, and that after looking it up, she found that the temperature in Cincinnati that
day was 102 degrees and that the record had not been broken. Councilwoman Montgomery
stated that her mother had been telling the truth and that she is grateful for her upbringing,
her heritage, and where she came from. She stated that she was born in Cincinnati and lived
in Mount Orab for most of her life until she was married. Councilwoman Montgomery also
expressed gratitude for what God has done in her life and for her husband still being with her,

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
noting that it has been a trying time for many people. She stated that knowing the value of
her life is a wonderful thing and concluded her remarks.
Mr. Nichols – Mr. Nichols thanked everyone for attending the meeting and for staying through
the presentation. He stated that the presentation included a significant amount of information
and noted that many members of Council have had the opportunity to receive and review
information about the project over an extended period, while newer Council members have
had to review a large amount of information in a shorter time. Councilman Nichols
encouraged residents to review the presentation online and continue researching the matter.
He also reminded residents that the final Movie in the Park for the year is scheduled for
September 12 and stated that additional activities are expected before the movie.
Councilman Nichols then stated that he recently toured the new City building and YMCA
construction site and was impressed with the quality of work being performed. He stated that
he believes the completed facility will be something the entire community can be proud of.
Vice Mayor Croucher - Vice Mayor Croucher thanked Mrs. Montgomery for offering the prayer
and wished her a happy birthday. He also thanked Chief Carr for his presentation and
reminded residents that Coffee with a Cop would be held the following day at McDonald’s,
where residents could ask questions about Flock cameras and how they operate in the City
of Trenton. Chief Carr then clarified that he had made an incorrect statement earlier and that
residents cannot look up their own license plate to determine whether it has been recorded.
Chief Carr stated that he would provide an additional meeting date, time, and location
regarding Flock cameras on the Police Department’s Facebook page, and it was noted that
the City would share that information on the City Facebook page as well. Vice Mayor Croucher
thanked Chief Carr, Councilman Proffitt, and City staff for the annexation presentation and
congratulated the Young Marines. He then yielded his remaining time to City Manager Nichols
to provide additional updates. City Manager Nichols stated that the State Street traffic light
timing upgrade is moving forward, with the quote signed and the purchase order sent back.
He also stated that the City is obtaining architectural quotes for the live fire training prop. In
response to a question regarding the ODOT State Street paving project, City Manager Nichols
stated that paving is expected to begin the following week. Vice Mayor Croucher concluded
by wishing everyone a happy Labor Day weekend and encouraged everyone to be safe.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Mayor Perry – Mayor Perry stated that he believed everything he intended to say had already
been addressed by others during the meeting. He thanked everyone for attending and
thanked those involved in helping clarify many of the issues discussed. Mayor stated that the
City has not been through a situation like this before and that many others likely have not
either. He thanked residents for becoming involved and sharing information, stating that
doing so helps the City understand concerns and work to set the record straight.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 3rd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
EXECUTIVE SESSION

1. DISCUSS THE HIRING, FIRING, OR DISCIPLINARY ACTION OF A PUBLIC EMPLOYEE OR
OFFICIAL.
Motion – To Go To Executive Session For The Reasons Stated
(Roll Call Vote) 1st_____ Vice Mayor Croucher___ 2nd Mr. Nichols_ Time 10:08 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

Motion - That the Executive Session meeting be adjourned.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st_____ Vice Mayor Croucher 2nd Ms. Butts_ Time 10:12 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

ADJOURNMENT

Motion - That the meeting be adjourned.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st_____ Ms. Butts 2nd Vice Mayor Croucher _ Time 10:12 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Montgomery, Nichols, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)

MOTION NO 53-2026
A MOTION RECOGNIZING THE PLANNED, BUDGETED, AND EXECUTED CASH
TRANSFERS OF THE 2026 BUDGET YEAR AND TO APPROVE ALL ATTACHED IN
EXHIBIT A AS PRESENTED FOR ANNUAL AUDIT COMPLIANCE .

Motioned by __________ recognizing the planned cash transfers of the 2026 budget year and to
approve all executed transfers depicted in EXHIBIT A as presented for annual audit compliance.
Seconded by: _________________________
Upon Roll Call, the Vote Resulted as follows:
AYES:__________
NAYS:__________
ABSENT:__________

CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that the
foregoing Motion No. 53-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the 17th day of September, 2026 and that at least a majority of the elected members
voted in the affirmative on said motion.

__________________________________
Clerk of Council

Staff Report

City Council Meeting Staff Report
Report to:

The Honorable Mayor Ryan Perry & Members of the City Council

Report From:

Matthew L. Mesisklis, Finance Director

Agenda Item:

2026 Cash Transfer Recognition

Ordinance/Resolution/Motion
Motion

1st Reading Date: 9-17-26
2nd Reading Date
Motion Date:
Resolution Date:
Public Hearing Date:

Contract

Contract Required: No

Fiscal Impact

Budgeted: Yes, +400,000
Revenue:
Destination Fund: Various

STRATEGIC GOALS
Connected Community
Economic Vitality
Operational Excellence
Strong & Secure Neighborhood
General Operations
Additional Document(s)
Attached:
Please see further, more detailed
information regarding the fiscal impact in
the summary section of this report.

Policy Issue
Does City Council wish to adopt: Approve Budgeted and additional Cash Transfers for compliance
purposes
Policy Alternative
Council may choose not to approve. Approval recommended to fulfill public safety cash flow needs
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends that Council receive this report accept the cash transfers authorized in the 2026
operating budget, in addition to $300,000 for the Fire Levy fund and $100,000 to the Employee
Benefits and Cashout Fund.
Statutory/Policy Authority
• ORC and the Ordinances of the City of Trenton.
Fiscal Impact Summary
This resolution will not tangibly affect City Finances or increase spending in any manner. This is a
compliance requirement
Background Information
Budgeted and supplemental transfers throughout CY 2026 must be approved separately for audit
purposes. This motion summarizes all of those together

EXHIBIT A - 2026 CASH TRANSFERS
Amount

FROM Fund

TO Fund

011 General
011 General
011 General
011 General
011 General
026 Water
026 Water
026 Water
066 Sewer
102 Streets
253 RIDs
253 RIDs

234 Capital
132 Parks
222 Fire
890 Employee Termination
218 Police Levy
036 Water Capital
023 Water Debt
890 Employee Termination
890 Employee Termination
890 Employee Termination
013 General Debt
224 Fire Capital / Debt

$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$

12,000
360,000
600,000
130,000
3,360,000
12,000
452,607
6,000
6,000
4,800
952,549
128,700

S
Reason
2026 Budget
2026 Budget
2026 Budget + $300,000 need
2026 Budget, + Cashouts
2026 Budget
2026 Budget
2026 Budget
2026 Budget
2026 Budget
2026 Budget
2026 Budget
2026 Budget

MOTION NO 54-2026
A MOTION TO APPROVE THE CONTRACT AWARD FOR THE TRENTON EV CHARGING
STATION PROJECT TO YORK ELECTRIC, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $143,750.00 AND
AUTHORIZE A 10% CONSTRUCTION CONTINGENCY IN THE AMOUNT OF $14,375.00
FOR UNFORESEEN CONSTRUCTION-RELATED EXPENSES AND AUTHORIZE THE
CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL NECESSARY CONTRCT AND CHANGE ORDER
DOCUMENTS FOR A TOTAL PROJECT AUTHORIZATION OF ONE HUNDRED FIFTYEIGHT THOUSAND AND ONE HUNDRED TWENTY-FIVE DOLLARS ($158,125.00).

Motioned by _________________authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with York Electric,
Inc. for the City of Trenton EV Charging Station Project in the amount of $143,750.00, authorize a 10%
contingency allowance of $14,375.00 for unforeseen construction-related expenses, for a total project
authorization of $158,125.00, and further authorize the City Manager to sign all contracts, change orders, and other
documents necessary to complete the project.

Seconded by: _________________________
Upon Roll Call, the Vote Resulted as follows:
AYES:__________
NAYS:__________
ABSENT:__________

CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, hereby certify that the foregoing
Motion No. 54-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of Trenton, Ohio on
the 17th day of September, 2026 and that at least a majority of the elected members voted
in the affirmative on said motion.

__________________________________
Clerk of Council

Staff Report

City Council Meeting Staff Report
Report to:

The Honorable Mayor Ryan Perry & Members of the City Council

Report From:

Brad Baker, Service Director

Prepared By:

Amy King, Assistant to the Service Director

Agenda Item: Motion Authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with York Electric, Inc. for
the City of Trenton’s EV Charging Station Project.
Ordinance/Resolution/Motion
Motion

1st Reading Date:
2nd Reading Date:
3rd Reading Date:
Motion Date: 08-17-2026
Resolution Date:
Public Hearing Date:

Strategic Goals
Connected Community
Economic Vitality
Operational Excellence
Strong & Secure Neighborhoods
General Operations
Responsible Infrastructure

Contract
Fiscal Impact

Bid total: $ 143,750.00
10% contingency: $ 14,375.00
Total: $158,125.00

Reimbursement amount up to
$54,545.00

Contract Required:
Budgeted: Yes
Expenditure:
$158,125.00
Source Funds: >>>

Additional Document(s) Attached:
Please see further, more detailed information regarding the
fiscal impact in the summary section of this report.

Source Funds:

234-1907-53105

Policy Issue
Does City Council wish to approve the motion authorizing the City Manager to enter into an
agreement with York Electric, Inc. for the construction of the City of Trenton’s EV Charging Station
Project and to execute all related project documents?
Policy Alternative
City Council may choose not to approve the contract award and direct staff to suspend, rebid, or
otherwise reconsider the City of Trenton EV Charging Station Project. Council may also elect not to
proceed with the project.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends that Council approve the motion authorizing the City Manager to enter into an
agreement with York Electric, Inc. for the construction of the City of Trenton’s EV Charging Station
Project and to execute all related project documents.
Statutory/Policy Authority
•
•
•

Article III, Legislative Action, of the Charter of the City of Trenton.
Chapter 208.02 Contracting Authority and Procedures.
Charter Section 7.04 Contracting Procedures.

Staff Report

Fiscal Impact Summary
The recommended contract award exceeds the engineer's estimate by approximately $22,750.00
(19%). Staff has reviewed the bid and, given the scope of work, current construction market
conditions, and the qualifications of the bidder, believes the pricing is reasonable for the project.
Funding for the project includes up to $54,545.00 in federal Carbon Reduction Program funds
administered through ODOT, which will be reimbursed to the City for eligible project expenses.
Background Information
The City of Trenton’s EV Charging Station Project includes the design and construction of one EV
charging station facility providing four (4) charging spaces for public use and will be located at 17
East State Street. Bids were publicly solicited in accordance with Ohio public bidding requirements.
The legal advertisement was published, and project documents were made available through
QuestCDN. Sealed bids were received and opened on August 31, 2026. One bid was received from
York Electric, Inc. in the amount of $143,750.00. The bid was evaluated by City Engineer William
Brock, PE and determined that York Electric, Inc. is a responsible bidder with experience performing
similar electrical infrastructure and public improvement projects. The engineer noted that York
Electric is familiar with Ohio Department of Transportation requirements and has successfully
completed comparable projects. We recommend adding a 10% contingency allowance ($14,375.00)
to cover unforeseen conditions, minor field adjustments, or change orders.
Attached Information
• City Engineer Letter of Recommendation.

September 4, 2026
Mr. Brad Baker, Service Director
City of Trenton
11 E. State Street
Trenton, Ohio 45067
Via email: [email protected]
RE: City of Trenton – Trenton EV Charging Station Project
Contract Award Recommendation
Dear Mr. Baker:
We have reviewed the bid received August 31, 2026, for the City of Trenton’s EV Charging Station
Project and recommend that the project be awarded to the sole bidder York Electric, Inc. with a bid of
$143,750.00.
York Electric, Inc., bid of $143,750.00 is 19% over the Engineer’s estimate listed in the Bid Documents
of $121,000.00.. York Electric has completed similar projects and is familiar with the ODOT
requirements of the job. Therefore, I recommend that Trenton award the contract to York Electric.
If you have any questions or need any further information, please contact me at (513) 644-1784.
Sincerely,
THE
KLEINGERS GROUP

William Brock, PE
City Engineer
cc: Marcos Nichols (City of Trenton), File

AUG 31, 2026 - CITY OF TRENTON FINANCIAL SNAPSHOT
Fund Name

Original Budget
(2026)

YTD Spent (2026)

011 GENERAL

$

6,951,127

$

4,580,614

66% $

013 GENERAL DEBT SERVICE
023 WATER DEBT SERVICE

$

1,619,000

$

809,500

$

452,607

$

53,803

025 WATER IMPROVEMENTS
026 WATER REVENUE

$

2,576,403

$

1,566,124

027 WATER RATE STABILIZATION
028 UTILITY CREDIT MEMO
036 WATER SYSTEM RESERVE

$

8,771,300

$

3,350,710

050 UTILITY DEPOSIT TRUST

$

65,000

$

40,384

066 SEWER REVENUE

$

1,941,108

$

1,172,104

076 SEWER RESERVE

$

300,000

$

116,175

096 REFUSE REVENUE

$

1,617,848

$

958,564

102 STREET MAINTENANCE & REPAIR

$

1,302,913

$

952,432

132 PARKS & RECREATION IMPROVEMENTS

$

1,113,600

$

235,675

166 STORMWATER PHASE II

$

327,940

$

225,358

192 COUNTY MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE

$

225,000

$

-

202 MUNICIPAL MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE

$

230,000

$

110,000

218 POLICE LEVY

$

4,554,717

$

2,798,654

222 FIRE LEVY

$

1,958,637

$

1,373,027

223 FIRE LEVY - CAPITAL & DEBT

$

128,700

$

31,850

$

-

224 FIRE DEPOSIT ESCROW
226 CASH BOND DEPOSIT
234 GENERAL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
250 GENERAL STABILIZATION RESERVE
251 PROPERTY REHABILITATION

$
$

2,323,000
30,000

252 MAYOR'S COURT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
253 TAX INCREMENT EQUIVALENT

$

2,081,249

Original Revenue
Estimate (2026)

% Spend

952,549 $

635,033

67% $

491,985

12% $
0% $

452,607

$

301,738

67% $

247,936

-

$

-

0% $

300,000

$

61% $
0% $

2,455,000

65% $

1,042,667

$

854,640

0% $

300,000

$

300,000

$

300,000 $2.5m Water Tap

$

-

$

-

$

1,588,690
-

$

21,800

68% $

3,703,088

65,000

$

45,234

70% $

264,028

60% $
39% $

1,852,200

$

1,198,428

65% $

952,120

$

910,796

20,000

$

248,261

1241% $

1,922,778

$

300,000 $210k Sewer Tap

59% $
73% $

1,360,000

$

910,751

67% $

372,135

903,000

$

647,045

72% $

555,821

21% $
69% $

453,200

$

311,918

69% $

1,580,390

315,000

$

237,139

75% $

405,701

0% $
0% $

225,000

$

190,000

0% $

190,000

160,000

$

108,908

68% $

101,574

61% $
70% $

4,407,800

$

2,894,206

66% $

420,200

1,538,500

$

976,084

63% $

255,481

25% $
$

128,700
-

$

85,800

$

-

67% $
0% $

53,950
-

-

$

-

0% $

33,494

$

311,216

11% $

21,156,866
948,366

-

-

0% $

-

$

-

$

1,925

4,834

-

6,000
2,500

$

$

6% $
0% $
62% $

0% $
81% $

$

1,933

77% $

122,400
2,441
1,062,412

$

72,000

$

-

150,000

$

-

402 LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST

$

3,000

$

250

$

53

300,000

6,042,936

$

-

2,510,348 RITA Taxes 1 month behind

$

0% $

1,290,740

$

8,863,300

0% $
38% $
62% $

16% $

$

Notes

50%

73,468

$

CASH Policy

4,204,651

370,587

$

0% $
0% $
0% $
8% $

890 EMPLOYEE TERMINATION BENEFITS

$

69,775

$

184,795

0% $
0% $
265% $

Grand Total

$

38,864,924

$

20,296,791

52.2% $

*Supplemental Budgets not reflected

CASH Remaining

83% $

$

256 TIF- MAGNODE INDUSTRIAL PARK

*Expenses Include only 2026 budgeted items

% Received

5,687,278

$

254 MUNICIPAL BUILDING PROJECT
255 TIF - CARVANA INDUSTRIAL PARK

432 FEDERAL ASSET FORFEITURE
518 UNCLAIMED MONEYS--TRUST

YTD Received

$

6,866,500

2,912,000

1,300,000

$

547,766

42% $

-

$

-

0% $

Includes grant match for ODOT
$

88,298
ODOT Grant match

MVO Projects paid from 2025
$

695,113

Infrastructure projects paid from 2025

-

72,000

$

36,849

51% $

36,849

120,000

$

(73,448)

-61% $

(73,448)

5,200

$

136

0% $

14,794

-

$

8

-

31,200

0% $
0% $

1,022
6,293

67% $

75,467

$

143,361

22,969,944

64.7% $

40,773,259

$

6,402,555

46,800

$
$

35,482,856

$

Due to County applying tax refund to Shape

MAJOR REVENUES

2025 YTD

2026 YTD

2026 Rev. Est.

INCOME TAX

$

2,855,687

$

2,437,189

$

AGO DELINQUENT TAX COLLECTIONS

$

1,860,430

$

1,369,466

$

Income Tax Net Rev + Receivable Comp

$

4,596,319

$

4,051,188

PROPERTY TAX / PILOT / ROLLBACK

$

4,171,615

$

1,865,310

WATER SERVICE

$

1,532,787

$

1,522,992

$

SEWER SERVICE

$

1,199,364

$

1,186,100

$

REFUSE SERVICE

$

881,091

$

910,751

$

EMS TRANSPORT

$

283,971

$

279,780

$

INTEREST

$

717,104

$

630,581

$

GAS TAXES

$

468,040

$

472,381

$

705,000

VEHICLE REGISTRATION (STATE, CITY)

$

156,693

$

168,023

$

250,000

TOTAL - MAJOR SOURCES

$

14,126,782

$

10,842,572

$

16,913,001

Statement
Balance

Month Interest

Uncleared Checks

Bank

$

%The
Rec.City of Trenton has several funds, dedicated to various purposes of local governance.

These funds have distinct revenues which they are allowed to collect, and equally-distinct
155.9%
categories of
spending that each fund can be used to provide for projects and city
operations. As good stewards of public finances, the City has policies within its various
1,200,000
87.6%
funds to maintain minimum balances based on spending trends. These policies allow
88% Trenton's operations
0.0% to remain efficient and intact even in times of crisis. Ample reserves
also contribute the City's respectable Bond rating of Aa1, which promotes access to low4,098,000 interest debt
219.7%
to complete large-scale projects without undue debt burden. Reserves also
the collection of interest revenue to further improve the City's financial security.
#REF!
2,370,000 allow for
The City holds its funds in StarOhio - Ohio's Local Goverment Investment Pool - which
1,840,000 operates as120.8%
a liquid money-market fund. The City also invests in securities such as CDs,
149.3%Treasury Bonds, and Commercial Paper for more aggressive yields with
1,360,000 Municipal Bonds,
its investment advisor, RedTree Financial. To maximize returns, funds are held in
139.4%
390,000 common with
investment advisors and then interest earnings are allocated to the City's
900,000 Capital Improvement
142.7% Fund.

3,800,000

149.2%by the Ohio Auditor of State, these statements are prepared monthly
As recommended
and provided
to the public for accountability purposes
148.8%
156.0%

Bank report balance

1st Financial General / Sub Accounts

$ 2,231,710.68

$

-

$

183,121 $

4,120,412.88

1st Financial Payroll

$

441,003.81

$

-

$

15,501 $

1,058,941.66

StarOhio

$

8,072,241

$

26,351

$

8,072,241

Redtree Financial

$

30,015,870

$

111,114

$

30,015,870

Argent Trust

$

290,375

$

615

$

290,375

TOTAL BANK STATEMENT BALANCE

$

41,051,201

$

138,080

TOTAL DEPOSITS-IN-TRANSIT

$

32,057.97

TOTAL UN-EXPENSED PAYMENTS

$

TOTAL BOOK FUND BALANCE

$

PAYMENTS-IN TRANSIT

$

TOTAL MONTH-END UNCLEARED CHECKS

$

198,621.45

NET DIFFERENCE (Book over Bank)

$

123,171

$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$

198,621

16,721.70 *See 5/3 Bills
40,773,259
4,928.91 *See Edenred 8/31 User-Requested Funds
% Difference
0.30%

Miller-Valentine Design-Build Trenton Community and Municipal Complex

Invoice Description
Interviews with staff, facility drawings, virtual design
Facility Drawings, Staff Interviews, Site review
Department Interviews, Design Alterations
Internal Design + Securty Specifics
Internal Design + Security + Pool specifics
HVAC + Security + Furnishing design
Electrical + Jail + Furnishing Design
Electrical + Security Design
Mobilization and Permiting Prep
Mobilization and Permitting
Grading and Temp Roadway
Temp Roadway
Pad and masonry
Precast Delivery and Install
Precast Install
Construction
Construction

$

Amount
99,103
322,085
74,327
486,617
347,583
208,551
208,550
69,516
69,517
703,505
1,731,971
1,752,331
2,610,802
2,631,362
1,559,060
3,398,186
4,612,274

Pay Date
2/12/2025
2/27/2025
3/25/2025
4/24/2025
5/31/2025
6/25/2025
7/31/2025
8/29/2025
9/30/2025
10/31/2025
12/19/2025
3/4/2026
3/10/2026
4/30/2026
5/12/2026
6/8, 6/24 2026
8/1, 8/31 2026

Audit Limit %
7%

Total Spent as of 8/31/26
Fund 234 - Capital Improvement

$

20,885,340

0123456738ÿÿ ÿ

ÿ
8ÿ0123456738ÿ12647278ÿÿ06ÿ671ÿ3471ÿ3710ÿ3276738ÿ7678ÿ
61ÿ3471ÿ106186ÿ8ÿ31826738ÿ0612ÿ30ÿ66ÿ3276738ÿ63ÿ
1ÿ1ÿ63ÿ61ÿ422776738ÿ8ÿ1ÿ48ÿ
1012ÿÿ"#$ÿ%&ÿ'()%)ÿ*+#(+ÿ%ÿ+,-.#+ÿ,ÿ/,(0#1 ÿ2%.#3ÿ4&&#3(ÿ/%+##%)ÿ%ÿ+5//.1 )ÿ
6#+#)7ÿ/%+##%)+ÿ8#ÿÿ2%.#3ÿ9 /,(1 ):ÿ,)*ÿÿ
1012ÿ#+ÿ/%+##%)ÿ8#..ÿ-ÿ5)3.,++#&#*ÿ,)*ÿ61/:ÿ,)*ÿ
1012ÿÿ/,(ÿ#1 ÿ/%+##%)ÿ%&ÿ2%.#3ÿ4&&#3(ÿ#+ÿ)3++,($ÿ&%(ÿÿ&&#3#)ÿ%/(,#%)ÿ%&ÿÿ
2%.#3ÿ9 /,(1 ):ÿ,)*ÿ
1012ÿ#ÿ,+ÿ-3%1 ÿ)3++,($ÿ%ÿ,1 )*ÿÿ".,++#&#3,#%)ÿ,)*ÿ<,7ÿ2.,)ÿ%&ÿÿ"#$ÿ%&ÿ
'()%)=ÿ4#%ÿ%ÿ/(%/(.$ÿ(&.3ÿ#+ÿ3,)7:ÿ,)*ÿÿ
83ÿ6101301ÿ1ÿ76ÿ30781ÿ-$ÿÿ"#$ÿ"%5)3#.ÿ%&ÿÿ"#$ÿ%&ÿ'()%)=ÿ"%5)$ÿ%&ÿ
>5.(=ÿ4#%?ÿ
216738ÿÿ@)ÿ,**##%)ÿ%ÿ%+ÿ/%+##%)+ÿ,.(,*$ÿ+,-.#+*ÿ8##)ÿÿ'()%)ÿ"#$ÿ".,++#&#3,#%)ÿ
,)*ÿ<,7ÿ2.,)ÿ-$ÿ/(#%(ÿ.7#+.,#%)=ÿ(ÿ#+ÿ(-$ÿ+,-.#+*ÿÿ&%..%8#)7ÿ/,$ÿ(,)7ÿ
&%(ÿ#+ÿ/%+##%)ÿ8#ÿÿ/%.#3ÿ*/,(1 )ÿ%&ÿÿ"#$ÿ%&ÿ'()%)=ÿ4#%Aÿ
24B@'@4Cÿ'@'DEÿ
2,(0'#1 ÿ2%.#3ÿ4&&#3(ÿ
31826738ÿ'ÿ%5(.$ÿ(,ÿ%&ÿ3%1/)+,#%)ÿ&%(ÿÿ2,(0'#1 ÿ4&&#3(ÿ+,..ÿ-ÿÿ,//.#3,-.ÿ
%5(.$ÿ(,ÿ+,-.#+*ÿ/5(+5,)ÿ%ÿÿ35(()ÿE"B9ÿ3%)(,3=ÿ8#3ÿ#+ÿFGHIJJÿ/(ÿ%5(ÿ,+ÿ%&ÿÿ
&&3#Kÿ*,ÿ%&ÿ#+ÿL +%.5#%)ÿ
216738ÿÿÿ'#+ÿ/%+##%)ÿ+,..ÿ-ÿ,//%#)*ÿ-$ÿÿ2%.#3ÿ"#&=ÿ,+ÿ8#ÿ%(ÿ/%+##%)+ÿ8##)ÿÿ
2%.#3ÿ9 /,(1 )Iÿÿ
216738ÿMÿ',ÿ#+ÿL +%.5#%)ÿ+,..ÿ,Nÿ&&3ÿ#11 *#,.$ÿ5/%)ÿ#+ÿ/,++,7Iÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿ

0123456738ÿÿ ÿ

ÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿ ÿ ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ
 ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ! ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿ ÿ ÿ ÿ "#ÿ
$!%ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿ ÿ ÿ ÿÿ&'(ÿ&()**ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ
+,(-ÿ*,.ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ! ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ
/#*ÿ*,.ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ$!%ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿÿÿÿÿÿ
%%%0ÿ
-,('1ÿ$(2#*3333333333333333333333333ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ
44105ÿ36ÿ4358474ÿ
41067674761ÿ
89ÿ-:ÿ&*(,.*ÿ;'<ÿ#2ÿ;#&/,'ÿ2#ÿ-:ÿ;,-ÿ#2ÿ%-#9ÿ=:,#9ÿ=:,#9ÿ:>ÿ/-,2ÿ-:-ÿ-:ÿ
2#.#,.ÿ(#'&-,#ÿ!#-:?ÿ@ABCDCEÿ,(ÿÿ-&ÿ*ÿ/#/-ÿ/#)ÿ(ÿ)((*ÿ>ÿ-:ÿ;#&/,'ÿ#2ÿ-:ÿ;,-ÿ#2ÿ
%-#9ÿ=:,#ÿ#ÿ-:ÿ@Fÿ*ÿ#2ÿ)-G>9ÿCDCEÿ*ÿ-:-ÿ-ÿ'(-ÿ-H#B-:,*(ÿ#2ÿ-:ÿ'/-*ÿGG>(ÿ
1#-*ÿ,ÿ-:ÿ22,G-,1ÿ#ÿ(,*ÿG#-,#?ÿ
ÿ
ÿ
ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ;'<ÿ#2ÿ;#&/,'ÿ
ÿ

ÿ
ÿ

ÿ

ÿ

Position Description
Police Officer
Classification Title
Classification
FLSA STATUS
Full-Time/Part-Time
Adopted
Revised
Probationary Period

Part-time Police Officer
Unclassified
Non-Exempt
Part-Time
One (1) Year

General Description
This is a highly responsible and at times stressful position that responds to requests from the public for police
services, and from other law enforcement, fire, and EMS entities requesting assistance from the City of Trenton.
Part-time Police Oofficers perform under the general direction and supervision of the Chief of Police and the
Lieutenant/Operations Commander and are also responsible to all Police Sergeants; however, extensive leeway
is granted for the exercise of independent judgment and initiative due to both design and necessity. The nature
of the work performed by the police department requires that all officers establish and maintain close
cooperative working relationships with representatives of other public safety and law enforcement agencies,
local business and industry representatives, other City staff, and the public. This position requires that officers
perform and conduct themselves both on- and off-duty in a manner that does not damage or endanger the loss
of trust with the public, their coworkers, and other public safety entities.
The Part-time Police Officer position requires general and varied duty police work in the protection of life and
property through the enforcement of laws and ordinances. Work normally consistsconsists of augmenting or
assisting full-time patrol officers in their duties, working special events, or other designated specialized
assignments in addition to of routine patrol, preliminary investigation, traffic regulation, and investigative duties
on an assigned shift, and involves an element of personal danger. Officers must be able to act without direct
supervision and exercise independent judgment in responding to calls and meeting emergencies. Officers may
receive special assignments based on specialized abilities, training, and/or knowledge. Officers may be required
to assist other department personnel with interrogations, searches, and other related duties as assigned.
Assignments and general and special instructions are received from a higher-ranking officer who reviews work
methods and results through reports, personal inspection, and discussion. Assignment is limited to 1500
working hours per year.

Job Duties
•
•

•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Observes and prevents violations of Federal and State laws and City of Trenton Ordinances
Receives and responds to:
o Radio communications
o Complaints from citizens
o Emergency and non-emergency requests from service agencies and the public
o Information from other agencies
o Requests for assistance from other agencies and departments, including the City of Trenton’s
Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services
Obtains and records pertinent information in multiple formats and forms as required
Performs queries, enters, clears, and cancels entries in multiple local, state, and national databases
and report management systems
Operates various office-type equipment as needed
Completes required reports and takes affidavits
Actively patrols the City of Trenton via vehicle and/or on foot
Pursues suspects on foot as necessary; can include short runs and long distances requiring physical
endurance; physically restrains and/or subdues suspects as necessary
Conducts security checks on businesses and residential units

Page 1 of 3

Position Description
Police Officer
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Observes and apprehends violators of traffic laws and issues warnings and written citations
Conducts or assists with investigations and/or responds to criminal and civil complaints, interviews
witnesses, suspects, complainants, and victims, and makes arrests as required by law
Collects, analyzes, and interprets data received at a crime scene and preserves evidence
Operates law enforcement equipment and instruments such as a patrol car, radio, firearms and other
weaponry, radar, breath analysis system, and related law enforcement tools
Interviews and counsels parties in domestic disputes
Serves official documents such as court orders, writs, citations, and subpoenas
Testifies in court
Properly uses and maintains all assigned equipment
Performs civic functions by providing public education and crime prevention through various programs
Attends training sessions, seminars, workshops, etc., to remain knowledgeable of current law and law
enforcement practices and administration
Works special details, e.g., City functions, local school events, parades, and festivals
Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance
Performs other related work as required and/or as assigned by a supervisor
May serve as a School Resource Officer with appropriate certification

Essential Skills, Knowledge, Abilities
•

•

•

This position requires:
º Demonstrated ability to speak clearly and effectively
º Good general intelligence and emotional stability
º Willingness and ability to interact and cooperate with administrators, fire and EMS staff,
dispatchers, other law enforcement, and the public
º Desire to learn and continuously increase and improve skills
º Ingenuity and inventiveness in the performance of assigned tasks
This position requires the ability to:
º Cope with situations firmly, courteously, tactfully, and with respect for the rights of others;
º Analyze situations quickly and objectively, and determine a proper course of action to be taken;
º Understand and carry out oral and written instructions;
º Write, speak, and communicate effectively;
º Develop skill in the use and care of firearms and other weaponry and equipment as required;
º Complete routine forms accurately;
º Use the internet for applications appropriate to assigned duties, e.g., maps;
º Troubleshoot reported problems and resolve them in a quick, efficient, and safe manner;
º Learn quickly and put to use new skills and knowledge brought about by rapidly changing
information;
º Prepare accurate documentation in a timely manner;
º Demonstrate physical strength, endurance, and agility; and
º Coordinate and perform multiple tasks with accuracy and speed under pressure and in, at times,
life-and-death situations.
This position requires prior knowledge of or the ability to learn:
º FCC rules and regulations;
º Local RMS, LEADS/NCIC computer operations;
º Public safety radio procedures;
º Police department policies and procedures;
º General safety practices and procedures;
º Public relations;
º Records management; and
º Program tasks, equipment, material, and procedures.

Page 2 of 3

Position Description
Police Officer

This position requires prior skill in or the ability to learn the operation of:
º
º
º
º
º
º
º

Multi-band base radio;
LEADS computer terminal;
Windows-based computer system using standard word processing, spreadsheets, and email;
Department reporting system;
City audio and video recording systems;
City telephones system; and
Various office equipment, e.g., copier, fax.

Minimum Qualifications
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Must be 21 years of age or older
Must be a citizen of the United States
Must hold current, valid Ohio Peace Officer Training certificate
Must have valid driver’s license or State ID
Basic computer literacy
Must meet such medical standards as prescribed and successfully pass any qualifying examinations,
either oral or written
Must pass an in-depth background investigation and be free of any felony convictions
LEADS and CCH certification must be obtained within the first three (3) months

Preferred Qualifications
•

Previous work experience in a law enforcement environment

Physical/Mental Abilities and Work Environment
Work conditions vary by shift. Flexibility is important due to the need to frequently enter and exit vehicles, inspect
buildings, climb over and around obstacles, suddenly move out of the way of danger, etc. Mental alertness is
important due to the need to make fine discriminations and decisions concerning subtle cues of impending
danger or to discover inconsistencies in witness or suspect testimonies. Physical and mental demands may
change dramatically within a short space of time and tax the maximum of human endurance; therefore, all
officers must maintain a physical and mental state of fitness and readiness that will enable them to handle
recurring contacts and involvements with dangerous and potentially dangerous people, animals, and equipment
with minimal force and often without backup. Officers may potentially be exposed to human blood and other
body substances. Requires 24/7 scheduling availability and can require work in excess of 40 hours as
necessary.
•
•
•
•

•

Rarely: Few tasks require heavy lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying heavy loads.
Occasionally: Bending over, reaching overhead, repetitive hand motions, grasping, holding
Frequently: Color distinction, sustained attention and concentration, fingering, reading, writing, visual
inspection, and learning new tasks. Lifting (less than 10 lbs.).
Constantly: Hand-eye coordination, sitting or standing, hearing, talking, remembering processes,
maintaining focus, making timely decisions in the context of a workflow, and adhering to and applying
established protocols in a timely manner.
Work Environment – Conditions can and do often vary by shift. Many tasks are performed inside a
climate-controlled building or from a police cruiser; however, many incidents and assigned tasks involve
lengthy stays outdoors, during which, although equipped with appropriate uniform items and footwear,
officers are often at the mercy of the weather.

Page 3 of 3

Formatted: Font: (Default) Franklin Gothic Book, 10 pt

RESOLUTION NO 15-2026
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING AN EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN FOR THE CITY OF
TRENTON AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of the City of Trenton, Ohio (hereinafter referred to as the “City”)
to protect life and property from the effects of hazardous events; and
WHEREAS, local government has the primary responsibility for emergency management activities;
and
WHEREAS, City staff has reviewed the Emergency Operations Plan and recommended
amendment(s) thereto; and
WHEREAS, City employees have been trained in the use of National Incident Management System
(“NIMS”) in their daily activities, emergency response, and disaster recovery; and
WHEREAS, the City’s Emergency Operations Plan has been revised to comply with Homeland
Security Presidential Directive (HSPD-5) and was developed in conjunction with the Butler County
Emergency Operations Plan; and
WHEREAS, this Council finds and determines that adoption of the revised Emergency Operations
Plan is necessary and in the best interest of the health, safety, and general welfare of the City and its
residents.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Trenton, County of
Butler, Ohio:
SECTION 1. This Council hereby adopts the revised Emergency Operations Plan for the City of
Trenton.
SECTION 2. That all formal actions of this Council related to this Resolution and all deliberations
of Council and of any of its committees that resulted in such formal action were in
meetings open to the public in compliance with all legal requirements, including
section 121.22 of the Revised Code.
SECTION 3. That this Resolution is hereby declared to be an emergency measure for the reason that
it provides the immediate preservation of public health, safety, and general welfare by
ensuring that the City maintains a current Emergency Operations Plan for the
prevention of, response to, and recovery from emergencies and disasters, and shall take
effect immediately upon its passage.

RESOLUTION NO __-2026

PASSED
AYES
ABSENT
First Reading
Second Reading

Ryan Perry

NAYS

Mayor

Rules Suspended
AYES
NAYS_____
ABSENT

ATTEST:
Stanislav Beresford_________________________
CLERK OF COUNCIL
CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that the
foregoing Resolution No. __-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the ___ day of ____, 2026 and that at least two-thirds of the elected members voted
in the affirmative on said motion.

__________________________________
Clerk of Council

ORDINANCE NO. 24-2026
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1242.01(vvvvvv) DEFINITIONS, ROADSIDE
STAND OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO
WHEREAS, it is the desire of City Administration to amend Section 1242.01(vvvvvv) of
the Code of Ordinances of the City of Trenton, Ohio; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TRENTON, OHIO:
SECTION 1: That Section 1242.01(vvvvvv) of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Trenton,
Ohio is hereby amended in its entirety and replaced with that set forth on Exhibit A, attached hereto
and made a part hereof.
SECTION 2: That this ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after the earliest
period allowed by law.
PASSED: ______________
Effective Date: __________
ATTEST: _______________

______________________
Ryan Perry, Mayor

CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that the
foregoing Ordinance No. 24-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City
of Trenton, Ohio on the th day of 2026 and that at least a majority of the elected members voted
in the affirmative on said motion.
__________________________________
Clerk of Council

EXHIBIT A
1242.01
(vvvvvv) "Roadside Stand." A temporary structure designed or used for the display or sale of
agricultural products produced on the premises on which the stand is located. A temporary, readily
movable structure or designated outdoor display area used for the direct sale of agricultural
products produced on the premises on which the stand is located. The term also includes a
residential cottage-food or farm stand approved under Section 1258.02, which shall be limited to
the products and activities permitted by that section.

ORDINANCE NO. 24-2026
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1242.01(vvvvvv) DEFINITIONS, ROADSIDE
STAND OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO
WHEREAS, it is the desire of City Administration to amend Section 1242.01(vvvvvv) of
the Code of Ordinances of the City of Trenton, Ohio; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TRENTON, OHIO:
SECTION 1: That Section 1242.01(vvvvvv) of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Trenton,
Ohio is hereby amended in its entirety and replaced with that set forth on Exhibit A, attached hereto
and made a part hereof.
SECTION 2: That this ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after the earliest
period allowed by law.
PASSED: ______________
Effective Date: __________
ATTEST: _______________

______________________
Ryan Perry, Mayor

CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that the
foregoing Ordinance No. 24-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City
of Trenton, Ohio on the ____ day of _____, 2026 and that at least a majority of the elected members
voted in the affirmative on said motion.
__________________________________
Clerk of Council

EXHIBIT A
1242.01 (vvvvvv)
“Roadside Stand”. A temporary, readily movable structure or designated outdoor display area used
for the direct sale of agricultural products produced on the premises on which the stand is located.
The term also includes a residential cottage-food or farm stand approved under Section 1258.02,
which shall be limited to the products and activities permitted by that section.

ORDINANCE NO. 25-2026
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1258.02 HOME OCCUPATIONS OF THE
CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO
WHEREAS, it is the desire of City Administration to amend Section 1258.02, Home
Occupations of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Trenton, Ohio; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TRENTON, OHIO:
SECTION 1: That Section 1258.02 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Trenton, Ohio is
hereby amended in its entirety and replaced with that set forth on Exhibit A, attached hereto and
made a part hereof.
SECTION 2: That this ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after the earliest
period allowed by law.
PASSED: ______________
Effective Date: __________
ATTEST: _______________

______________________
Ryan Perry, Mayor

CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that the
foregoing Ordinance No. 00-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City
of Trenton, Ohio on the ____ day of _____, 2026 and that at least a majority of the elected members
voted in the affirmative on said motion.
__________________________________
Clerk of Council

EXHIBIT A
1258.02 HOME OCCUPATIONS.
A home occupation shall be permitted only in accordance with the following provisions:
(a) No person or persons shall operate a home occupation or be employed thereunder other than
a resident of the premises.
(b) The home occupation shall be conducted entirely within the dwelling, and the use of the
dwelling for the home occupation shall be clearly incidental and subordinate to its use for
residential purposes by its occupants. Not more than 25% of the gross floor area of any dwelling
unit shall be used for a home occupation.
(c) There shall be no change in the outside appearance of the building or premises, or other
visible evidence of the conduct of such home occupation other than 1 home occupation sign, if
permitted under Chapter 826 of these Codified Ordinances.
(d) There shall be no sale on the premises of commodities not produced as the result of the
home occupation.
(e) No toxic, explosive, flammable, combustible, corrosive, etiologic, radioactive or other
restricted materials shall be used or stored on the site in amounts greater than those normally
associated with domestic use.
(f) In no case shall a home occupation be open to the public at times earlier than 8:00 a.m. nor
later than 10:00 p.m. The times of operations for babysitting shall be 6:00 a.m. through 11:30 p.m.
(g) No advertisement shall be placed in any media containing the address of the property.
(h) Vehicles associated with the home occupation shall be subject to the following:
(1) Not more than 1 vehicle shall be used for the purposes of the home occupation.
(2) Such vehicle shall not be larger than a 3/4-ton truck.
(3) Deliveries and/or pickups of goods related to the home occupation shall not be made in
vehicles other than the vehicle associated with the home occupation.
(4) Such vehicle shall not have any permanent advertising of the home occupation but may
have magnetic or other temporarily affixed advertising, provided such advertising is removed at
all times the home occupation is not open to the public, as set forth in division (f) of this section.
(i) No traffic, including deliveries, shall be generated by such home occupation in greater
volume than would normally be expected in a residential neighborhood, and any need for parking
generated by the conduct of such home occupation shall be off-street and not within a required
front yard.
(j) Equipment or processes shall not be used in such home occupation which create noise,
vibrations, glare, fumes, odors, or electrical interference detectable outside the dwelling. In the
case of electrical interference, no equipment or process shall be used which creates visual or
audible interference in any radio, television receiver off the premises, or cause fluctuations in
voltage off the premises.
(k) Only the following uses may be permitted as home occupations:
(1) Architectural and/or engineering service.
(2) Artist studio.
(3) Attorney.
(4) Babysitting, up to 8 children at a time. The times of operations for babysitting shall be
6:00 a.m. through 11:30 p.m.
(5) Beauty and barber services, 1 chair only.
(6) Professional consulting services.
(7) Data processing.

(8) Direct sale product distribution (Amway, Avon, Tupperware, etc.).
(9) Drafting and graphic design services.
(10) Dressmaking, sewing, tailoring, contract sewing (one machine).
(11) Financial planning, investment services.
(12) Graphic design.
(13) Internet sales, trading and information services.
(14) Home cooking and preserving for sale off-site.Qualifying cottage food production
operations and home bakeries licensed or registered as required by Ohio law, including off-site
sales and limited on-premises sales conducted in accordance with division (m) of this section.
(15) Home crafts such as model making, rug weaving, cabinet making or ceramics utilizing
a kiln with a capacity of 6 cubic feet or less.
(16) House cleaning service.
(17) Insurance sales or broker.
(18) Interior design.
(19) Laundry, ironing service.
(20) Licensed massage therapist.
(21) Locksmith.
(22) Mail order, no retail sales from site.
(23) Real estate sales or broker.
(24) Sales representative, office only.
(25) Court reporter, stenographer.
(26) Telephone answering, switchboard, call forwarding.
(27) Tutoring, limited to 1 student at a time.
(28) Typing, word processing service.
(29) Writing, computer programming.
(30) Other similar uses as determined by the Zoning Administrator.
(l) The following uses, by the nature of the investment or operation, have a pronounced
tendency once started to rapidly increase beyond the limits permitted for home occupations, and
thereby impair the use and value of a residentially zoned area for residence purposes. Therefore,
the uses specified below shall not be permitted as home occupations under any circumstances:
(1) Appliance repair.
(2) Automobile or vehicle repair, automobile or vehicle parts sales, automobile or vehicle
painting or detailing, and automobile or vehicle washing service, including businesses working at
customers' homes.
(3) Beauty and barber services, 2 or more chairs.
(4) Boarding house.
(5) Carpentry.
(6) Ceramics utilizing a kiln with a capacity of more than 6 cubic feet.
(7) Churches, religious instruction.
(8) Contracting, masonry, plumbing or painting.
(9) Gift shop.
(10) Health salons, gyms, dance studios, aerobic exercise studios.
(11) Limousine service.
(12) Medical or dental office.
(13) Mortician, hearse service.
(14) Palm reading, fortune telling.

(15) Photography studios.
(16) Private clubs.
(17) Rental equipment businesses.
(18) Restaurants, taverns, food preparation.
(19) Retail sales on site.
(20) Small engine repair.
(21) Tow truck services.
(22) Veterinary uses, including care, grooming, or boarding.
(23) Wedding or bridal shops.
(m) Residential Cottage-Food and Farm Stands. A home occupation permitted under division
(k)(14) may conduct limited on premises sales from one roadside stand only when all of the
following requirements are met:
(1) The operator shall reside on the premises and obtain a Zoning Certificate before installing
or operating the stand.
(2) The operator shall maintain all licenses, registrations, approvals, and food-safety
compliance required by the State of Ohio for the products offered for sale. Approval of a Zoning
Certificate does not constitute a determination by the City that a product complies with state food
law.
(3) Products shall be limited to agricultural products and qualifying cottage-food or homebakery products grown, produced, or prepared by the resident operator on the premises. Products
obtained from another farm, producer, wholesaler, or retailer shall not be sold.
(4) Only one stand shall be permitted on a zoning lot. The stand shall not exceed twenty-four
(24) square feet in ground area, six (6) feet in width, or six (6) feet in height.
(5) The stand shall be readily movable, shall not have a permanent foundation, and shall not
have a permanent electrical, water, sanitary, or other utility connection.
(6) The stand and all displays shall be located entirely outside the public right-of-way and
shall not obstruct a sidewalk, driveway, drainage facility, utility easement, required sight distance,
or emergency access. The Zoning Administrator may require another location on the same
premises when reasonably necessary for vehicle or pedestrian safety.
(7) The Zoning Certificate application shall include a site sketch showing the dwelling,
property lines, public right-of-way, driveway, sidewalks, off street parking, drainage facilities,
utility easements, and proposed stand location.
(8) Customer parking shall be provided off-street and outside a required front yard. Traffic,
deliveries, and other activity shall remain consistent with the volume and character normally
expected in a residential neighborhood.
(9) The stand may operate only between 8:00am and 8:00pm.
(10) A covered trash receptacle shall be available while the stand is open. Products,
packaging, waste and temporary displays shall be removed at the end of each business day, and
the area shall be kept clean and orderly.
(11) A stand that is not operated for fourteen (14) consecutive days shall be removed from
the front or side yard until operations resume.
(12) No seating, dining, food sampling or service, special event, amplified sound, or standrelated outdoor lighting shall be permitted.
(13) Any sign shall comply with Chapter 826.
(14) Notwithstanding divisions (b), (c), (f), (g), and (l)(19) of this section, the outdoor stand,
authorized on-premises sales, approved operating hours, and use of the property address in

advertising shall be permitted only to the extent necessary for a stand approved under this division.
Division (d) remains applicable.
(15) Failure to comply with this division or an approved Zoning Certificate constitutes a
violation of this Zoning Code and is subject to the City’s existing enforcement and appeal
procedures.

ORDINANCE NO. 26 - 2026
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1258.04 ACCESSORY BUILDINGS,
STRUCTURES AND USES OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF
TRENTON, OHIO
WHEREAS, it is the desire of City Administration to amend Section 1258.04, Accessory
Buildings, Structures and Uses of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Trenton, Ohio; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TRENTON, OHIO:
SECTION 1: That Section 1258.04 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Trenton, Ohio is
hereby amended in its entirety and replaced with that set forth on Exhibit A, attached hereto and
made a part hereof.
SECTION 2: That this ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after the earliest
period allowed by law.
PASSED: ______________
Effective Date: __________
ATTEST: _______________

______________________
Ryan Perry, Mayor

CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that the
foregoing Ordinance No. 26-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City
of Trenton, Ohio on the ____ day of _____, 2026 and that at least a majority of the elected members
voted in the affirmative on said motion.
__________________________________
Clerk of Council

EXHIBIT A
1258.04 ACCESSORY BUILDINGS, STRUCTURES AND USES.
(a) An accessory building is a building subservient to, and distinguishable from, the principal
building on a lot or parcel. No accessory building shall be erected in any required yard or court,
except a rear yard, and shall not occupy more than 30% of the area of the required rear yard. The
required rear yard shall be defined as the actual rear yard width multiplied by the minimum rear
yard depth required in the particular zoning district in question.
(b) Connection of an accessory building to a principal building by a breezeway, covered or
uncovered walkway, fence or other similar unenclosed structure or improvement does not render
it a part of the principal building.
(c) For computing the percentage of occupancy of a rear yard, as required in division (a) of this
section, if a detached accessory building is connected to the principal building by a breezeway or
covered walkway, the ground area of the breezeway or walkway shall be considered part of the
accessory building and be included in the computation.
(d) No accessory building shall exceed the height of the principal structure or 25 feet, whichever
is less.
(e) No accessory building shall be closer than 6 feet from any side or rear lot line, or any public
alley.
(f) On a corner lot abutting in the rear the side lot line of a lot in a residential district, any
accessory building or part thereof within 25 feet of the common lot line shall not be closer to the
side street lot line than the least depth of the front yard required on such other lot fronting the side
street; and in no case shall any part of the accessory building be closer to the side street lot line
than the least width of the side yard required for the principal building to which it is accessory.
(g) A Roadside Stand approved under Section 1258.02(m) shall be governed by that section
and shall not be subject to the location requirements for accessory buildings under divisions (a),
(e), and (f) of this section.

CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT | PLANNING & ZONING
Ohio Cottage Food Law / Trenton City Code

CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
Report to:
Report From:
Agenda Item:

The Honorable Mayor Ryan Perry & Members of the City Council
Randy Bridge, Planning and Zoning Administrator
Ohio Cottage Food Laws & Local Zoning Measures - State Requirements and Trenton’s
Framework for a Residential Farm Stand Ordinance

Ordinance/Resolution/Motion
Section 3.05 of the City
Charter:
Refer to the Planning
Commission after the first
reading by City Council
Contract: No
Fiscal Impact: None

1st Reading Date:
2nd Reading Date:
Motion Date:
Resolution Date:
Public Hearing Date:

STRATEGIC GOALS
Connected Community
Economic Vitality
Operational Excellence
Strong & Secure Neighborhoods
General Operations
Responsible Infrastructure

Contract Required: No
Budgeted: No
Revenue / Expenditure: None
Destination Fund:

Additional Document(s) Attached:

Purpose and Recommendation
Resulting from citizens’ inquiries at City Council meetings, the purpose of this report is to facilitate discussions with City
Council regarding current Ohio Cottage Food Laws and local zoning regulations
This report begins with the Ohio food-law framework and then explains what Trenton will need to change if Council
wishes to allow a resident to operate one small, visible farm stand from residential property. The State regulates the food.
The city regulates the land use, stand location, traffic, parking, signs, hours, and neighborhood impacts.
I recommend coordinated amendments to Section 1258.02, Home Occupations, and Section 1258.04, Accessory
Buildings, Structures and Uses. The amendment should allow one small, readily movable stand, subject to a zoning
certificate and clear operating standards, without opening residential property to unrestricted retail activity.
Key Terms
Cottage food operation: A home operation producing shelf-stable foods authorized by Ohio law without state licensing
or registration.
Registered home bakery: A home bakery registered with and inspected by the Ohio Department of Agriculture that may
produce qualifying refrigerated baked goods.
Value-added product: An agricultural product changed or processed to increase its value, such as fruit made into jam or
herbs made into a seasoning blend.
Cottage food product: A shelf-stable food authorized by Ohio law that does not require temperature control.
Agricultural product: A crop, plant, egg, honey, or other lawfully grown, raised, or produced farm product.
Farm stand: A small, temporary or movable outdoor structure or display used by a resident to sell permitted products.
Trenton does not currently define this term.
Roadside stand: A temporary structure used to sell agricultural products produced on the same premises.
Supplemental inventory: Products sold at the stand but not grown, produced, or prepared on the premises.
Incidental and subordinate: Secondary in size and impact to the property’s principal residential use.
Potentially hazardous food: Food requiring temperature control to prevent harmful bacterial growth or toxins.
Home occupation: A resident-operated business conducted as an accessory use of a dwelling.
Page 1

CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT | PLANNING & ZONING
Ohio Cottage Food Law / Trenton City Code

Ohio Cottage-Food Reference
Ohio permits a qualifying cottage food production operation to prepare specified shelf-stable foods in a home kitchen
without a state license, registration, inspection, or fee. State law does not establish an annual sales cap. Properly labeled
products may be sold directly to consumers and through licensed Ohio retail food establishments or food-service
operations, but they may not be sold outside Ohio.
Issue

Ohio rule

STATE APPROVAL

No license or registration is required for a qualifying cottage food production operation.

INSPECTION

No routine licensing inspection; the State may sample products for adulteration or
misbranding.

SALES CAP

No annual cap is stated in the governing statutes or rules.

SALES CHANNELS

Direct sales and sales through licensed Ohio retail food establishments or food-service
operations.

GEOGRAPHIC LIMIT

Cottage food products may not be sold outside Ohio.

REQUIRED STATEMENT

The label must state, “This product is home produced.” in at least 10-point type.

LOCAL REGULATION

The state exemption does not displace zoning, building, fire, traffic, parking, sign, nuisance,
or property-maintenance requirements.

Foods Covered
Ohio law provides two paths for food prepared in a home:
•

A cottage food operation may produce specifically authorized shelf-stable foods without state licensing,
registration, routine inspection, or a fee. Examples include cookies, breads, brownies, cakes, unfilled baked
donuts, pizzelles, waffle cones, jams, jellies, fruit butters, candy, granola, popcorn products, roasted coffee, dry
mixes, herbs, seasonings, and tea blends.
• A registered home bakery may produce a broader range of baked goods, including certain products that require
refrigeration. The bakery must be registered with and inspected by the Ohio Department of Agriculture and pay
the required annual fee.
Cottage food operations may not produce potentially hazardous or temperature-controlled foods, acidified foods, low-acid
canned foods, reduced-oxygen packaged foods, or products not expressly authorized. Examples include refrigerated cream
pies or cheesecakes, pickles, salsa, and canned vegetables.
What Ohio Law Means for Trenton
Ohio law determines which foods may be prepared in a home and what food-safety, labeling, registration, and inspection
requirements apply. Trenton does not need to create a separate food license or determine whether a product qualifies
under state law. Trenton’s authority is limited to how the business operates on the property. The City may decide whether
customers can visit a residence, whether an outdoor stand is permitted, and what requirements apply to its location, size,
hours, signs, parking, traffic, and appearance.
Labeling
Each cottage food package must comply with Ohio Revised Code Section 3715.023 and applicable federal labeling
requirements. The label must include:
• The business name and address;
• Required allergen information; and
• The name of the food product;
• The statement “This product is home produced.”
• Ingredients listed in descending order by weight;
in at least 10-point type
• Net weight or volume, as applicable;
Page 2

CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT | PLANNING & ZONING
Ohio Cottage Food Law / Trenton City Code

Pending State Legislation
•

•

•
•

House Bill 134 would create a registration option for preparing and selling a broader range of
homemade foods, including:
o hot meals
o products containing dairy, meat, poultry, or seafood.
Operators would register annually with the Ohio Department of Agriculture, and:
o pay a $25 registration fee
o complete food-safety training
o pass a home-kitchen inspection
o and pay an inspection fee of up to $50.
Annual gross receipts from potentially hazardous homemade foods would be limited to $150,000.
As of September 2, 2026:
o the General Assembly identifies the bill as pending.
o It is not current law unless enacted and effective.

Citizen Request
The request arose during Audience of Citizens and concerns a modest stand that would be visible and accessible from the
street. The proposed use is not a permanent commercial building or a general retail business. The citizen has indicated
support for reasonable limits addressing traffic visibility, stand size and appearance, mobility, trash, overnight product
removal, operating hours, and neighborhood compatibility.
Current Trenton Code
Section 1258.02 is the primary provision because the proposed business would operate from a residence as a home
occupation. It presently permits “home cooking and preserving for sale off-site,” but several provisions prevent or create
uncertainty about an outdoor stand:
• Division (b) requires the home occupation to be conducted entirely within the dwelling within 25% of the overall
floor space.
• Division (c) prohibits visible exterior evidence other than one permitted home-occupation sign.
• Division (d) prohibits the on-premises sale of commodities not produced through the home occupation.
• Division (f) establishes public hours of 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• Division (g) prohibits advertising that contains the property address.
• Division (i) limits residential traffic and requires business parking to be off-street and outside a required front yard.
• Division (l)(19) prohibits retail sales on site.
Section 1258.04 creates a separate location issue. Division (a) generally limits accessory buildings to a rear yard.
Although the proposed stand would be portable and lack a permanent foundation, its form could still create disagreement
over whether the accessory-building rule applies. The ordinance should resolve that point directly.
Section 1258.13, Seasonal Temporary Sales, is not a good fit. It applies to seasonal merchandise associated with an
existing principal business, limits approvals to 90 days per calendar year, and does not establish a durable framework for a
residential cottage-food stand.
Recommended Zoning Approach
Section 1258.02 should permit a resident operating a qualifying cottage food operation or registered home bakery to sell
approved products from one small, readily movable stand. The use should require a zoning certificate and site sketch and
remain incidental and subordinate to the residence.
For the initial amendment, the stand should be limited to agricultural products and qualifying cottage-food or registered
home-bakery products grown, produced, or prepared by the resident operator on the premises, with a maximum
percentage of goods This addresses the request while reducing the possibility that the property becomes a general retail
destination.
Page 3

CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT | PLANNING & ZONING
Ohio Cottage Food Law / Trenton City Code

Standards to Include
•
•
•

One stand per zoning lot, operated by a resident;
Maximum area of 24 square feet, width of six feet, and height of six feet, subject to Council’s direction;
Located outside the public right-of-way and clear of sidewalks, driveways, drainage facilities, utility easements,
sight-distance areas, and emergency access;
Readily movable, without a permanent foundation or utility connections;
Off-street customer parking outside the required front yard, with traffic consistent with the residential
neighborhood;
Defined hours, a covered trash container, and daily removal of products, packaging, waste, and temporary displays;
No seating, dining, sampling, food service, special events, amplified sound, or outdoor lighting; and
Signs must comply with Chapter 826.

•
•
•
•
•

The zoning-certificate application should show the house, property lines, right-of-way, driveway, sidewalks, parking,
drainage facilities, utility easements, and proposed stand location. Staff should be authorized to require another location
on the same property when needed for vehicle or pedestrian safety.
Required Code Amendments
•

Revise Section 1258.02(k)(14) to recognize qualifying cottage food production operations and registered home
bakeries.
Create narrow exceptions to the indoor operation, exterior-evidence, operating-hours, address-advertising, and onsite retail restrictions for an approved stand.
Preserve Section 1258.02(d) unless Council affirmatively allows products not produced through the resident’s
operation.
Add the stand location, size, mobility, hours, parking, sanitation, product, and prohibited-activity standards to
Section 1258.02.
Add a conforming provision to Section 1258.04 stating that a stand approved under Section 1258.02 is governed
by that section and is not subject to the general rear-yard rule for accessory buildings.
Use the City’s existing zoning enforcement and appeal procedures.

•
•
•
•
•

A concise conforming provision for Section 1258.04 could state: “A farm stand permitted under Section 1258.02 shall be
governed by the requirements of that section and shall not be subject to the location requirements applicable to accessory
buildings under this section.”
Products from Other Farms (Additional Amendment Needed)
Council may choose to allow limited inventory from other farms or Ohio producers. That would expand the request and
should not be added without clear limits. If Council wants that option, the ordinance should have clear limits, as such:
•
•
•
•

establish a minimum percentage of products originating from the premises
eligible supplemental products
geographic sourcing limits
source-identification requirements.

Should Council elect this option, then Section 1242.01’s Roadside Stand definition would also need review because it
currently refers to agricultural products produced on the same premises.
Council Direction Needed
Before final ordinance language is prepared, Council should provide direction on:
1. Permitted products and whether all must originate
from the premises
2. Whether limited products from other Ohio farms or
producers may be sold
3. Stand dimensions and Operating hours
4. Whether the property address may be used in farmstand advertising

5. How long can an inactive stand remain outdoors
before removal or storage
6. Whether the existing residential traffic standard is
sufficient
7. The residential districts in which the use should be
permitted
Page 4

CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT | PLANNING & ZONING
Ohio Cottage Food Law / Trenton City Code

Required Review Process
A zoning-text amendment must proceed under Charter Section 3.05. After first reading, the ordinance must be referred
immediately to the Planning Commission. The Commission has 30 days to provide its written recommendation unless
Council allows additional time. Council’s public hearing follows the Planning Commission review period and requires the
notices specified by the Charter.
An ordinance consistent with the Planning Commission recommendation requires approval by a majority of the elected
members of Council. An ordinance that departs from the recommendation requires a two-third vote. The Law Director
should review the ordinance and confirm the final language, cross-references, and enforcement provisions.
Conclusion
The request can be accommodated without allowing unrestricted residential retail activity. Coordinated amendments to
Sections 1258.02 and 1258.04, and potentially 1242.01, would give the residents a defined path for one small farm stand
while preserving the property’s residential character.
Once Council is responsive to the required questions above, I can prepare one ordinance for introduction and referral to
the Planning Commission.

Page 5