..Mission:  Informed and active participation of citizens ..in government, increased understanding of major ..public policy issues, and influencing public policy ..through education and advocacy is an important part ..of many organizations.  An Observer Corps helps meet ..that mission.  By regularly attending public meetings ..of local governmental agencies, the Observer Corps’ ..members keep elected officials aware of the ..organization’s interest in local government and helps ..all the organization’s members be better informed ..citizens .through the reports on those meetings.  
..Distinction Between Observing and Monitoring

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...Observer Reports

Beavercreek Township Trustees
Beavercreek Trustees
Board of Elections - Montgomery County
Board of Elections - Greene County
Centerville City Council 
Dayton Board of Education
Dayton City Council

Five Rivers Metro Parks
Kettering Board of Education
Kettering City Council
Springboro City Council
Trotwood City Council
Yellow Springs Village Council

...
Beavercreek Township Trustees
 

January 28, 2008 (Rebecca Jarvi)
Trustee discussed township reimbursement for use of the Coy House by the Beavercreek Historical Society and the Wetlands Association. The township spent $13,500 in the past year for improvements to the property and anticipates additional cost to cover making the building handicap accessible. It was decided that a monthly rent will be charged to both organizations.

Trustees approved the purchase of a new ambulance. Other township bills were approved. The township Fiscal Officer advised the trustees of changes in policy for changes in rate changes, requiring approval by all three Trustees. A work session of the trustees will be held to examine the consequences of the policy change.

Trustees discussed a settlement between the township and a developer regarding allowable density of housing units in a contested area. The township agreed to four units over the seven requested by the developer.

Sept. 24, 2007 (Rebecca Jarvi)
The Beavercreek Wetlands Association and the Beavercreek Historical Society will be invited to jointly attend and special session to discuss the uses and needed improvement for the Coy House.  A new policy on meeting procedures was approved. Residents desiring to speak will be limited to three minutes. Ten minutes will be allowed for groups or individuals already on the agenda. Others wishing to speak can be scheduled for more time as needed. Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission (MVRPC) made a presentation.

June 18, 2007 (Rebecca Jarvi) 

  1. A resident’s request for the creation of a three-way stop at an intersection on Factory Road was denied. 

  2. A price of $1.98 million has been agreed on for the sale of Gosinger Park to the Beavercreek School Board. The sale contract will stipulate that the land cannot be resold for anything other than recreational or educational uses for the next 25 years. 

  3. The Township will levy a 3% excise tax on hotel guest accommodation transactions.

  4. Greene County Education Specialist Gussie Jones asked the Trustees for a letter of approval and recommendation to be attached to a grant request for funding assistance from the Kellogg Corporation for building a fully accessible playground on 7.2 acres within Victory Park. 

  5. Purchase of an advance support fire engine with Emergency Medical Service (EMS) capability will be funded through a new capital equipment fund. A levy renewal of two mills for five years (to be on the tax lists for 2008, to begin collection in 2009) will be on the November ballot.

  6. A new member of the Beavercreek Zoning Commission was approved for an appointment that lasts until 2012. Since the Zoning Commission is made up of local citizens who may not have prior experience with zoning issues, Zoning Inspector Victoria Long recommended that the Township pay the $50 cost of an Ohio State distance- learning course that would be good training for zoning commission members. 

  7. A request from the City of Beavercreek to share the expense of additional roof  repair on the Senior Center was held for further clarification.

Jan., 2007 (Dec. 18, Rebecca Jarvi) 
There was a full room to recognize the newly hired fire fighters and promotions.  Beavercreek Library requested that the township assume expanded responsibility for snow removal at the library.  The fire department requested new communication equipment which would allow them to do in-house upgrades Jeff Siebenthaler wants to convert some land to general agriculture use, partly because the ash trees have been wiped out by the ash borers. The request was approved. 

Sept., 2006 (Sept.25 - Rebecca Jarvi) 
A new position has been created and filled: Zoning Inspector. Following a request from the prevention center, the Trustees declared October as Family Violence Prevention month.  Environmental questions and details about both water flow into the wetlands and light pollution relating to ODNR property were continuing with the developers of the old Siebenthaler tree farm and surrounding land (290 acres which will have 475 houses).  Future meetings will be held in the basement of the fire station as the current meeting room will become the Township Zoning Office.  Groups in attendance were a Cub Scout troop, representatives from the land development companies and local residents with concerns about the development as well as a spokesperson from the Wetlands Association. There was no media.

Summer, 2006 (Rebecca Jarvi) 
A new position of “Zoning Inspector” was approved. A special meeting on personnel management and policies was scheduled. No media coverage was identified. Two land development firms wanting postal addresses changed from Xenia to Beavercreek had opposition from a number of citizens there. (August meeting) 
A parcel of land is being set aside out of the Spring Ridge and Spring Meadows developments for a park.  ODNR has accepted responsibility for this park and the Wetlands Association is advising the developers regarding site development.  A representative from the Wetlands requested that neither Bradford nor Calvary pear trees be planted because they are invasive plants.  The fire department has purchased 15 sets of gear which are lighter and protects against biological and chemical agents. They have also received a $300,000 grant for headset communication equipment. (September meeting)     [Top]

Beavercreek Trustees
Mar., 2007
(3/26 - Rebecca Jarvi) 
1. Bellbrook School Superintendent presented data about anticipated population growth and its impact on student numbers. Several different tracts of land are being reviewed for future growth and new school buildings. It is anticipated that a proposal will be on the November ballot related to future plans and anticipated costs.
2. A presentation was made by the Dayton Raiders Swim Club who are hoping to build a multi-purpose community facility that would include a wellness center and an auditorium. The facility would be open to the public without membership fees, but would operate on fees for use. The Club is hoping that the Township will donate land for the proposal. No action was made by the Trustees, as the land in question was currently undergoing an appraisal.

Nov., 2006 (11/6— Rebecca Jarvi) 
The City of Beavercreek is seeking a new site for the annual Popcorn Festival. One suggestion was using Rotary Park; the options on that will be studied. There was discussion of development of a new ball field and, which would be fully handicapped accessible. Rotary and Victory Parks. In a later follow-up to that topic, the observer found that the land has been set aside and funding sources are being pursued.

Board of Elections—Greene County 
Jan., 2008 (1/8 - Bea Delph)
The Board discussed the “Board of Elections Member Survey” sent out by the Secretary of State. The Chairman said it was a good survey. The State Liaison said that it was a good way to get the opinions of Board members. He added that there was a lot of concern expressed about the Everest Project.  

The Director reported that they would be sending out 10, 000 paper ballots (10% of total of 2004 vote) for the general election. For the primary election they would have to send out ballots for Independents, Democrats and Republicans. The concern was that poll workers would confuse paper ballots with provisional ballots. They would have to train poll workers.  They also would have to buy new ballot boxes. Another concern expressed by the Director was that if the state goes to all paper ballots, whether printers in the state would be able to handle the printing of the paper ballots because by law, they cannot print them out of state.  

There was further discussion on the Everest Project. Discussed was the chain of security, recruiting of poll workers, poll worker training, and vote centers. Since voting at vote centers would go for 15 days, security would be a problem. The State Liaison mentioned that there was a video on the State website on poll worker training.  

The question also came up whether an independent voter could serve as a poll worker. Board policy is to have equal number of Democrats and Republicans. According to the State, two independents can work at a precinct. They have to agree to work for one or the other party.  

The Board went on to discuss the budget and certify the petitions of those running for office. On February 26, 2008 there will be a swearing in of new Board members at the Board of Elections in Montgomery County at 10:00 to 11:15 a.m.  Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner will be there.

Aug. 28, 2007 (Bea Delph) 
Project Everest was discussed. It is a program where the Secretary of State borrows voting machines to test them. They can borrow up to six. The Board voted to certify all Local Option and Nominating petitions. All petitions were looked over very carefully.  The Director gave the Board information on the Central Count Optical Scan system. This is a system where a scanner’s data goes directly into the database instead of a memory card. All 4 scanners of the Board of Elections could be hooked up to it. It allows for faster reading of the results. Right now the Board has optical scanners for paper ballots and touch screens for others.  Because of HB 119, anything that has to be brought in extra for an election, the Board of Elections will be able to charge back to the subdivisions (a subdivision is defined as any board of county commissioners, board of township trustees, legislative authority of a municipal corporation, board of education, or any other board, commission, district, or authority that is empowered to levy taxes or permitted to receive a tax levy’s proceeds). The Board voted to support the Director in what he has to do to have a secure and correct presidential election. The Sugarcreek precinct was split into two precincts because of crowding. The new precinct is number 156. The Board discussed who was eligible to run as an independent candidate. Anyone who is a member or an officer in a political party is not eligible to run as an independent..

May, 2006 (5/22, Bea Delph) 
The results of the May Primary election were certified, requiring that all four Board members are present at the time of the official count. A board member asked if the allocation of voting machines was noted anywhere in the official report. It was noted that the allocation of one machine for every 175 registered voters in a precinct was noted in the previous month's minutes. A discussion was held about what should be done about absentee ballots that are damaged by the Post Office.  One ballot in the Primary Election was so damaged it was unreadable and attempts to contact the voter were unsuccessful.  The Board will contact the Secretary of State for guidance.

Nov., 2006 (11/27—Beatrice Delph) 
A Xenia Gazette reporter came to the meeting, but left because there wasn’t any room (the room is very small). The Board decided to postpone the overview of the elections until the next meeting, but mentioned that one church was not a good location because people had to stand and wait outside. Of a little over 11,000 absentee ballots, only 14 had to be reviewed. Of 2096 provisional ballots, 21 were questionable for I.D. purposes and only one not counted because the person did not want to vote on the voting machine.   [Top]

Oct. 2006 (Oct 25—Beatrice Delph) 
One voting machine will be provided for at least every 175 voters in Greene County. The logic and accuracy testing of the equipment was performed by the Board. Each machine is to be tested for 10 days, using regular, absentee, provisional and curbside ballots to make sure the tabulators are working correctly.  Both Democrats and Republicans will be involved in the testing.  An attorney from Advocates for Basic Legal Equality (ABLE) brought up the question of the long lines that have occurred at Central State University in several recent elections. The Director (Tracy Smith) said that this year instead of designating machines according to precinct, they will set up machines that can be used by persons from any precinct.  The Director reported that he and the Deputy Director and some of the members of the Board were taking classes at the Certification Center for Boards of Elections. Twelve classes are offered and a certificate is given after completion. The meeting was attended by a Xenia Gazette reporter and photographer.

Recommendations for League Action or Follow-Up:
Beatrice Delph (observer for Greene County BOE) noted that a technician from the Diebold Company set up the voting machines to be tested and helped with the testing. Since the owner of Diebold contributed to the Bush campaign, she thinks someone else other than a Diebold technician should be doing the testing. Viola Matyas (observer for Centerville Council) suggests that the meeting to prepare the proposal for annexing the Greene County land was not properly advertised (not informing Sugar Creek Township trustees nor Dayton Daily News prior to the meeting).   

Board of Elections—Montgomery County  [Top]
February 19, 2008 (Sharon Harmer)
So far 10,000 absentee ballots have been requested. This is double the 2004 election. It is likely that an additional
3-4 thousand will be requested. At this point approximately 60% of those are Democratic ballots.  “Remaking ballots” was discussed. It applies to ballots that are torn, marked inadequately or from 17 year olds (who can vote for candidates but not issues).

A public records policy has been adopted. It stipulates a “reasonable amount of time” to comply with public information requests. It specifies that preparing for elections are the priority for staff time.

Ellis Jacobs presented a report from the Montgomery County Voter Protection Coalition on an analysis of voting machines from the November 2007 election. There were quite a few malfunctions, but the vast majority of those were solved by troubleshooters or precinct workers within the first half-hour of opening the polling place. The Board of Elections and staff were upset with the report because they felt it portrayed the BOE operations as inadequate and promoted a negative public perception of voting operations. The presenter (Ellis Jacobs) responded that these were problems that occurred, as recorded by troubleshooters, pollworkers and calls into the BOE. They could be used by the BOE as information to help them in training or maintenance of equipment.  There will be a regional swearing in ceremony of Board of Election officials on Monday, February 25 at 10 a.m. on the 10th floor of the County Building.

Jan. 10, 2008 (Sharon Harmer)
Candidates for the March Primary were certified. Candidates are recommended to turn in 3 times the number of signatures
needed. After that amount, the Board of Elections stops counting. Legally, more signatures than that are not acceptable.  An executive session regarding personnel and a potential criminal action on an election issue was held.  The Director brought up the directive from Secretary of State Brunner. She wants board members to tell her their responses; board members were not to discuss the issue with fellow board members or staff. The results will be given at the state BOE association meeting next week.  

In Montgomery county, optical scan ballots will be available over the amount of 10% suggested by Brunner. It will take considerable time to count these ballots; in 2006, it took 8 hours to do the 42,000 optical scan ballots. The directives are unfunded requirements requiring expenditures for ballots, staff and equipment. Union County is challenging the directive.  Pollworker training will be on the Secretary of State’s website in a couple of weeks.  

Ellis Jacobs gave a summary from the Election Protection Coalition (The Dayton League is a member of this group) on Brunner’s proposal. Her study showed that voting machines flunked all tests for security by people in the business of computer security. There are 3 main concerns with Brunner’s proposal:  

  1. the possible elimination of precincts

  2. using only a centralized count on election night (concern is on transporting them and recording the under/over votes)

  3. trying to accomplish all this by March.

Dec. 4, 2008 (Sharon Harmer) 
The recounts from the November General Election were certified. There were 3 recounts for Huber Heights; there was a one vote change in one of the recounts conducted, 2 votes on another and 10 votes in the 3rd. There was no change in the
Northridge recount.  Petitions for local options were certified for Sinclair and multiple locations for Speedway and Kroger. An evaluation of the elections training by Sinclair resulted in a “very good” commendation. There will be candidate seminars in January, required for all judicial candidates. It was noted that the optical scanner may or may not read the marks if only a small line or mark is in the oval.

Nov. 20, 2007 (Sharon Harmer)
The Board certified all results of the November 6, 2007 General Election. Three races will require a recount (less than ½ % difference in votes) they are: Huber Heights School Board levy, Northridge School Board race, and Miami Township Fiscal Officer. More than 1,400 provisional ballots were cast in the General Election of which more than 300 were invalid. Individuals wishing to verify that their ballot was counted can call in to the BOE up to 30 days following the election. There was no significant increase in the number of people voting by absentee ballot.  

Kids Voting supplied approximately 300 students and there were approximately 150 County employees who worked at the polls for this election. Both groups are to be commended for their efforts. There were 2 official complaints regarding campaign practices; one was referred to the sheriff’s office for investigation and another had a written response from the BOE to the concern. The Board discussed a directive from the Ohio Secretary of State regarding use of optical scanning for ballots ripped or torn.

Oct. 23, 2007 (Sharon Harmer)
Boards of Elections offices are being advised by the Secretary of State to make no comments about State Issue 1 until all lawsuits are settled. Discussion about Type 2 annexation problems that could cause a parcel of land to be required to pay taxes to two jurisdictions. There will be a future ballot issue to address and correct the problem. Discussion about the ballot language used for Local Option issues that appear on the ballot. The Secretary of State has questioned some of the specific language used in the Local Option ballot issues.

Aug. 28 & Sept. 11, 2007 (Sharon Harmer)
Sept. 11 - Candidates and ballot issues for the coming election were given final approval. There are 5 write-in candidates for Union mayor. The Ohio Secretary of State has approved the official language for Issue One. Since the petition certification is not complete, the issue will appear on the ballot; if there were not enough signatures, there will be a sign posted that votes for that issue will not be tabulated. The office is working on the Strategic Plan for the November 2008 election. There has been staff training which included reviews of policies, machines, board and an assessment test as well as education on legislation affecting elections. An idea was posed relating to identifying pollworkers by either a label, button or t-shirt. The costs will be investigated. The office is making a presentation to the Mayors and Managers on “Day for Democracy” (getting workers for the polls).

Aug. 28 - The Board looked at certification of candidates for the November General Election. Those who did not have enough signatures (as checked by the staff), were not certified. Those petitions which were questionable were discussed by the board. Some qualified under the “sandwich rule” (a date left out but included elsewhere) and others who had used an earlier form and left out a section in them were judged to be acceptable. It was noted that if anyone wanted their name removed from the ballot that must be filed by Sept 7 ; write-in candidates must file by September 5th The major topic of discussion was on Day For Democracy and wearing of t-shirts at the polls. The law limits anything relating to electioneering from being within 100 feet from the polls. After much discussion, it was decided that during the pollworker training the board would discourage wearing t-shirts. However, a complete ban was not implemented; anyone who has a complaint filed against them can be dismissed.  
A grant to Kids Voting was approved to aid in training and obtaining youths for the polls. It was announced that 13,000 have been purged from the rolls for inactivity over the past 4 years. A request from the Ohio Secretary of State to loan 6 voting machines for testing was approved. 
The chairman of the Board of Elections was retiring following this meeting. She has successfully emphasized a nonpartisan approach to voting issues. The new chair will be Greg Gantt, who is the current chair of the county Republican party.

June 26 & July 31, 2007 (Sandie Mants) 
Director Steve Harsman commented that the staff has prepared and conducted 12 elections (general and special) within the past 16 month time frame. The summer months are being used for staff training and gearing up for the November 6th, 2007 election. The last special election was a mayoral election in Moraine on July 10th, following another recall. There is speculation that still another recall petition is currently being circulated in the Moraine area against another council member.  The board is following the progress of possible statewide petitions for issues to be placed on the November 6th ballot. As petitions are circulated in the Dayton area, the board staff is responsible for verifying the signatures and reporting to the Secretary of State. There are three possible statewide issues that may make it to the fall ballot on the topics of school financing, adult oriented businesses and a community defense act.  

There was been recent publicity about a controversy related to the board’s attempt to utilize a new marketing tool for the recruitment of new poll workers. A Day for Democracy program has been promoted to area businesses and organizations as a poll worker recruitment effort. Part of the plan included conversations about poll workers being allowed to wear a shirt bearing a company’s logo as a way to acknowledge the organization’s participation in the program. A non profit pro-life organization has made it known that they intend to recruit poll workers and encourage them to wear shirts with a pro-life logo while they are working as poll workers. This has caused much community discussion and the Board of Elections board members are now reviewing the entire Day for Democracy program. Discussions have centered on the “integrity of the polling location” and the potential confusion for voters that this particular part of the program could create. A final decision was tabled until all Board members (one board member was absent for the July meeting) could be present for a vote.

May, 2007 (5/21, Sharon Harmer)
Candidates for the replacement of City of Moraine Mayor were certified with the election to be held on July 10. Several local options and candidates for the fall election were also certified. This process will be continuing throughout the summer until final candidate deadlines in late August.  It was announced that new pollworkers are being recruited through a new program “Day for Democracy” that includes recruitment within corporations and also targets high school students. It was also announced that the Ohio Secretary of State as part of a pilot program will be sending voter registration cards to be included with high school student diplomas.  Signature requirements for petitions for non major party candidates for U.S. President have been changed to 20,000. This reflects a correction and lowers the amount of signatures required.

Apr., 2007 (4/17 - Sandra Mants)
The majority of the meeting was spent reviewing the proposed strategic plan prepared by staff. Each area of the plan addressed current community and board concerns on election operations. Those areas are: 
1. Board of Election Staff training. Discussion of cross-training and specialized training.
2. Election Preparation, including the issue of electronic voting machine calibration issues and solutions.
3. Pollworker recruitment and training This included a discussion of working closely with Kids Voting to identify and recruit 17 & 18 year old students to become pollworkers. 
4. Troubleshooter (individuals who work to resolve special problems on Election Day) recruitment and training 
5. Voter Education. It was noted that this is an on-going issue that requires face-to-face opportunities.

Jan., 2007 (1/2 and 1/16. Sharon Harmer) 
The proposed state ballot issue signature verification cost more than $5000 to do.  A policy was adopted that when there is a fraction of a person required for the total number of signatures, it will be rounded up to the next whole number. In the past, the determination has been mathematical (if under .45, rounded down).  Recommendations from the state were to round up, so that is what is being done.  There have been questions from citizens and state legislators on issues relating to “Type 2” annexations. These are initiated by a single owner and the later homeowners are taxed by both the township and city district for fire, police and garbage. This also means they can vote on both township and city issues (and candidates) for those items. There are only a few areas in this situation.

Dec., 2006 (12/19 - Sharon Harmer) 
After the Board set tentative 2007 meeting dates, the Director reported that they had just received petitions with 26,000 signatures to verify within 3 ½ days. The petitions are for legislation on proscribing “sexually oriented business” activities and will probably be on the 2008 fall ballot. Because completing the verification would require calling in extra employees and possible overtime for a staff that has already put in long hours this fall and winter, the board directed him to seek a delay in any possible way.  A recount of the Kettering 3H precinct (2 vote difference) turned out the same as originally counted. Results of the 12/12 Moraine  recall election will be verified at the January 2nd meeting. The wording (required by their charter) was confusing to some.  The Deputy Director will be meeting with a new county commissioner to explain “Day for Democracy” a poll worker recruiting program. The League was provided a DVD about the program as well as a copy of the petition (mentioned above) requiring signature verifications. There was no media present.   [Top]

Nov., 2006 (11/28—Sharon Harmer) 
Channel 2 and the Dayton Daily News were at this meeting. When certifying the official results of the election, it was noted that 3 local issues in Kettering were within 2 votes so a recount is mandated. The increase in the number of special elections is a concern. It costs $800-850 per precinct (to the jurisdiction) plus BOE time (paid by the county). If it is a recall and the individual is successful in defending him/herself, that cost is also born by some jurisdictions (depends on their charters). {Moraine had one recently, holding more on Dec 12, Jan 6 and in February}  Of the 6400 provisional votes, 5196 were valid. Those not valid were usually because they hadn’t registered before the 30 days prior to the election or were at the wrong precinct. Under Ohio law, you must vote at your “home precinct”. This law may come up for changes in the next General Assembly.  Ellis Jacobs presented the results of the Election Protection Coalition’s work on election day. Of the 75 complaints (in sample precincts), voting machines were the most common basis of complaints; they registered a vote incorrectly, were out of service, or had other problems. This will be considered in the BOE’s assessment of problems to be avoided in future elections.  

Centerville City Council   [Top]
January 28, 2008 - Viola Matyas
A 2007 study was completed about the feasibility of merging the City of Centerville and Washington Township with the goal of saving money and increasing efficiency of present duplicate services and the possibility of lowering taxes. The study confirmed that all these things were possible. Council is now planning to have the merger proposal placed on the fall 2008 ballot. A number of Town Hall meetings will be held to educate the public.

Several citizens voiced concern about the increased traffic and the need for an additional traffic signal near the Dille property that was annexed by the City of Centerville. The city Planning Commission will monitor the situation. Plans for the development of the Dille property were briefly discussed commenting on the plan for a bike path, saving of a number of the trees along the Wilmington Avenue side of the property and development that will include paved streets, parking lots and buildings on the property.

The city’s Green Initiative Commission first action has been the purchase of a hybrid vehicle for the city.

Dec. 17,-2007 (Viola Matyas)
Centerville has not joined in the Montgomery County 911 Dispatch Center due to the fact that the city has invested a considerable amount of money in the city’s own dispatch center. It was noted that Washington Township has expressed interest in joining the Montgomery County Dispatch Center. The City of Centerville will be making suggestions to the Washington Township Trustees to consider instead joining the City of Centerville’s Dispatch Center at the same cost to the township.  T

he Mayor and Council have formally set up meetings with Sugarcreek Township Trustees to resolve differences concerning the Dille property that has been annexed by the City of Centerville.  

It was noted that there have been a number of citizen complaints about the new trash collection system used by the city.

Oct. 20, 2007 (Viola Matyas)
A presentation on the Human Service Levy was made requesting council endorsement. It is against council policy to endorse any issue; however a large number of council members spoke as individuals in support of the levy. A number of community ordinances will have public hearings in November one of which will define what item cannot be in a residential front yard. The city planning commission recommended that the council prohibit new signs that include an LED moving message. The council voted to discuss this recommendation with the business community before taking a final vote.

Aug. 20, 2007 (Viola Matyas) 
Meeting included the following items:

  • Announcement of a public hearing on Sept. 17 to enact a hotel/motel tax on Greene County properties

  • Approved the appeal of a builder of 40 condo units to not be required to build a long extension road around the development. Instead a bridge and short extension road will be built. 

  • Extended a 6 month moratorium on display signs with changeable copy, LED and electronic components.

Jun. 12, 2007 (Viola Matyas) 
Agenda items included: 

  • Councilman Doug Cline will, for the third time, lead a group of volunteers to Slidel, Louisiana, where they will gut houses that were destroyed in Hurricane Katrina. Volunteers being actively recruited. 

  • Centerville Police Force received its national accreditation and given “Flagship Agency” status. 

  • A public hearing was held on a change in the ordinance to inspect rental property every two years. Owners must notify tenants prior to inspection and refusals of entry must be penalized by owners.

  • Joint financial-feasibility study between Centerville and Washington Township, done by the University of Toledo, will be finished by the fourth quarter.

May, 2007 (5/21 - Viola Matyas) 
It was announced that the Mayor and city council members have met with the Ohio House speaker (Jon Husted) to oppose HB117. This bill would create a statewide franchise for cable and video service and would have the effect of drastically reducing the local franchises of Miami Valley Communications Council to continue providing public access to governmental and educational meetings.  The annexation process is continuing on the property at the corner of Wilmington, Whipp and Feedwire Roads in the southeast corner of the city.  The City of Centerville and the Washington Township Trustees are exploring a joint financial study to find cost savings opportunities in operations for the two entities.

Apr., 2007 (4/16 - Viola Matyas )
1. Council welcomed Centerville High School students who are participating in the Youth in Government Day on April 24. Students will spend the day with various city officials.  
2. Former City Manager of Kettering Steve Husemann, who is now working at the Miami Valley Communications Council (MVCC), gave a report on pending legislation, Ohio Senate Bill 117. He is asking for local governments to oppose the legislation. A lengthy discussion followed. The bill would eliminate MVCC franchising the local cable process that is used by Centerville and 8 other Miami Valley municipalities.  It is reported that AT&T wishes to replace the current "system" with a statewide cable system. The council voted to oppose the bill.

Jan., 2006 (1,22 - Viola Matyas) 
There were a number of public hearings at this meeting, including a thorough presentation of the 2007 budget.  The City will be
 having exploratory meetings with Washington Township regarding any possibilities of merging specific services to save money.  While there was no mention of Sugarcreek’s lawsuit against Centerville regarding the annexation of Dille property  to Centerville, this will be an issue to watch.

Dec., 2006 (12/18 - Viola Matyas) 
Lengthy reports on the county-wide 911 option were given by the assistant mayor, city manager, police chief and fire chief. All departments have met a number of times on the issue. It was concluded that joining the countywide 911 system would not be advantageous because of monetary considerations (cost and equipment already purchased), reduced personalized service, and existing coalition of 8 cities.

Oct., 2006 (Oct 16—Viola Matyas)
The Centerville City Council approved the annexation of a 228+ acre parcel of farmland in Greene County for the
purpose of housing development. The annexation was said to have been requested by landowners and future developers and was approved by Greene County. Sugarcreek Township trustees, who had not been informed of the special meeting held on October 9 to discuss this proposal, opposed the annexation. A public hearing on changing the zoning on these acres to permit development was scheduled for the Centerville City Council meeting, November 20, 8:00 P.M. The meeting was televised.

Summer, 2006 (Lee Mills) 
Construction at Kettering Middle School was behind schedule. A proposed renewal of the tax levy for permanent improvements was approved. There was no media coverage and about 15 citizens present (August meeting).  
A large number of human resource recommendations as part of the start of the school year.  Brief discussion of problems with the State School Board, but no specifics were noted. (September meeting)   

Dayton Board of Education [Top]
Dec. 4, 2007
(Sherry Green) 
A large part of the meeting involved updates on the various construction projects noting which projects were nearing completion and anticipated building occupancies. There was discussion of an Apprenticeship Program sponsored by Dayton Urban League. Superintendent Dr. Percy Mack reported on Family Fun Night (excellent community participation) and a report on the Gay and Lesbian Institute. Observer expressed concern on the reasons for two board members being absent as well as the low number of community members in audience.  

The observer commented on the efficiency and leadership shown in the conduct of meeting and pleasure at seeing the Pledge of Allegiance used to open the meeting. The observer recommended that follow -up be pursued with the Ohio Facilities Commission and with the Superintendent's office to learn the racial composition of Family Fund Night attendance.  Observer also expressed interest in doing a follow up with a student board member.

Dayton City Council   [Top]
Nov., 2006
(11/15—Viv Himmell) 
The media was well represented at this meeting: cable, Channels 2/7/22 and the Dayton Daily News. In addition to the appointment of Rashad Young as City Manager, there was a proposal to rejuvenate downtown Dayton. The latter will require cooperation with other downtown stakeholders. It was also noted that Commissioner Lovelace has been meeting with various people/businesses to improve the predatory lending laws.

Five Rivers Metro Parks   [Top]
Summer, 2006 (Paul Lamberger) 
The district received $3 million to protect 1000 acres through the Clean Air Act.  Staff reports, capital outlay expenditures and an executive session occupied most of the rest of the meeting. There was no media present and only one citizen.  

Kettering Board of Education   [Top] 
Dec. 4, 2007
(Lee Mills)
Observer noted that approximately there were approximately 75 people in the audience to observe a math demonstration and to hear school choirs who were performing. Board members unanimously approved policies and bylaws presented by NEOLA of Ohio. Board unanimously approved participation in Southeastern Ohio Education Purchasing Council’s Natural Gas Program for a 6 year period which will save $550,000
.

Aug. 7, 2007 (0nnolee Mills)
A resolution to put a 4.9 mill school tax levy on the ballot in November was passed unanimously. The Board reduced costs by $2 million this summer in order to keep the levy at 4.9 mills. A Kettering resident addressed the board with concerns regarding the need for another levy so soon after the tax for building improvements two years ago.

Oct., 2006 (Oct 17—Onnolee Mills) 
The October 17th meeting of the Kettering School Board was recorded by Kettering Public Access. An executive session was called to discuss personnel matters. In the open session, attendees were given an explanation of the Ohio State Board Report  Card and a review of Kettering’s testing, teachers’ training and International Baccalaureate Standards. The Board approved a lease agreement for Riso duplicators to be used throughout the district. The revised five-year forecast for fiscal years 2007-2011 was approved.  

Summer, 2006 (Lee Mills) 
Construction at Kettering Middle School was behind schedule. A proposed renewal of the tax levy for permanent improvements was approved. There was no media coverage and about 15 citizens present (August meeting).  A large number of human resource recommendations as part of the start of the school year.  Brief discussion of problems with the State School Board, but no specifics were noted. (September meeting)   

Kettering City Council    [Top] 
February 12, 2008 (Mickey Gogle)
The Mayor presented his State of the city address. An Eagle Eye Watch Program has been started to encourage neighbors to keep an eye on what is happening in the city's parks. A Property Maintenance Task Force was created in 2007 to raise the awareness of property maintenance of Kettering residents. More than 4,200 violations are reported annually (only 4% are repeat problem cases) and the city has hired two more housing inspectors.

Jan. 22, 2008 (Mickey Gogle)
Council voted to support the Sinclair Community College Levy on the March 4 Primary ballot. Authorization was given to the City Manager to apply for state
funds for a bike path. 

Jan. 8, 2008 (Mickey Gogle)
Bruce Duke was elected to serve as Vice Mayor. The City of Kettering has been awarded a large number of communitydevelopment monetary awards including an additional award to build another skate park. A complete list of all projects
awarded will be available when formal minutes are prepared and filed for public consumption.

Dec. 18, 2007 (Mickey Gogle)
Council approved purchase of Road Rescue Medic Unit for the fire department. Council approved a $74 million budget for 2008. Complete details of the budget will be available for public consumption by February 1. Master Plan for Fire Department has been completed.

Dec. 11, 2007 (Mickey Gogle) 
Discussion on voter participation in the November election noted that 550 more voters participated over the previous election. Council adopted an alternative method for calculating and levying special assessments that would be based on size of lot and value of property. Council voted to advertise for bids and contract for renovation of former Justice Building (which was the former location of the Kettering Court in the Kettering Shroyer Road location) Following renovation, a number of city departments currently housed in the basement of the city building will be moved. City accepted a grant from the MVRTA to build 6 bus shelters. Kettering's contribution to the project will be $11,000 which is 20% of the total cost to build the shelters. Council upheld the decision of the Kettering Board of Zoning Appeals to use a private home as a private care home.

Oct. 25, 2007 (Mickey Gogle)
The council voted to endorse the Kettering City School levy. The council authorized the city manager to enter into agreements for expansion of the fiber communication system and to also work with the Homeownership Center of Greater Dayton to assist first time home buyers in Kettering.

Sept. 25 & Oct. 9, 2007 (Mickey Gogle)
Presentation on Human Services levy (Issue 20)and request for council endorsement. If the levy fails, Kettering residents would lose a considerable amount of levy supported services that are provided directly to residents who qualify for Human Service assistance. Council subsequently voted to support the levy at the October meeting. Date set for hazardous waste drop off for Kettering residents.

Aug. 28 & Sept. 11, 2007 (Mickey Gogle)
Sept. 11 - Council approved a change in development guidelines for Villas at Kettering Pointe allowing residents to put up fencing. Accepted a donation from Kettering Medical Center to cover cost of bike paths on KMC property. Working with Waste Management to have customer service department be open longer hours. Neighbors from Lincoln Park area protested the opening of a group home for developmentally disabled men. City Manager will review zoning code for any violations.
August 28 - Two presentations were made to the Council. The first providing information about the River Commons Project which is a housing project that will utilize the DMHA Helena High-rise building to provide supportive housing for single individuals. The second presentation was by DMHA speaking about the agency process for Section 8 housing in the suburban areas. This presentation followed by one day the presentation at the Oakwood City Council in response to community concerns about DMHA Section 8 housing in Oakwood and Kettering.

Aug. 14, 2007 (Mickey Gogle) 
Meeting agenda items included:

  • Report from Kettering's Law Department that reviewed the petition from the Citizens Against Regional Dispatch to place the question on the November ballot. The report concluded that the submitted petition was not "proper subject matter" for an initiative petition and it will not be forwarded to the Board of Elections for placement on the ballot.

  • City Manager reported that following a review of the proposed Regional Dispatch System plan that it did not appear to be in the best interest of the City of Kettering to participate. The primary objections were that the program was under the control of the Montgomery County Sheriff rather than a shared governance and there was no guarantee of improved service to the community. The Council voted to withdraw from the Regional Dispatch program.

July 24, 2007 (Mickey Gogle) 
At the meeting the Kettering City Council voted to:

  • levy a 6 mill tax for all purposes of the city. This is not a new levy but one that has been renewed annually since 1958.

  • submit 3 applications to the State Capital Improvement Fund for 2 bridge replacements and for resurfacing Dorothy Lane near the South Dixie intersection. 

  • commend the Finance Director and staff for receiving an award from the State Auditor for being in the top 5% of agencies in the state for excellence in financial accountability.

July 10, 2007 (Mickey Gogle) 
Meeting was attended by approximately 30 members of Citizens Against Regional Dispatch. Two representatives of this group spoke against Kettering joining the Regional Dispatch Center. The group has turned in petitions with more than 4,000 signatures, hoping to get the question on the November ballot in Kettering. Other business included: 

The County Auditor asked the City Council to help get the word out about the expanded Homestead Tax Reduction Program that was enacted July 1st. With the removal of the income restriction to apply for a Homestead Tax Reduction, an estimated 4,500 Kettering residents who are over age 65 or permanently disabled are now eligible to apply for the tax reduction. Deadline for applying is October 1, 2007.

June 26, 2007 (Mickey Gogle) 
At the meeting, the Kettering City Council authorized the city manager to:

  • accept money from the Parks Foundation to provide financial assistance for special needs children of low -income Kettering families to attend Camp Discovery. 

  • acquire by the right of eminent domain a property on South Dixie that is in the process of bank foreclosure and is needed to finish the Dorothy Lane / South Dixie Project. 

The Council also heard: 

  • complaint from a resident about trucks and equipment being used by a neighbor to run a business out of his home. 

  • an appeal from a couple whose five pet chickens had been disallowed by the zoning board.

June 12, 2007 (Mickey Gogle) 
Agenda items included:

  • Replacing the bridge on Patterson Road at Acorn Drive

  • Hiring an agent to obtain sponsorships for the Fraze Pavillion and the Parks and Recreation and Cultural Arts department. 

  • Doubling the space for the Kettering Connection area at Town and Country Shopping Center.

May, 2007 (5/8 & 5/22, Mickey Gogle)
The May 22nd Council meeting included a vote to rezone the Birchwood Swim Club property for a senior housing complex.  Council passed a resolution opposing the statewide cable TV franchising bill. (SB 117) Passage of the legislation would mean the loss of $115,000 in franchise fees per year and would eliminate the network which includes all government phones and computers.

The May 8th Council meeting included a Resolution of Appreciation to Chief Master Sergeant David Marcum of the Ohio Air National Guard. Announcements were made about city spraying for Gypsy Moths in some neighborhood and that the search for a permanent Fire Chief was continuing. There was also discussion of a matrix study that is recommending a combining of the police and fire departments.  A large portion of the meeting was spent in discussion about the regional dispatch proposal and the activities of the C.A.R.D. group. Approximately 20 members of C.A.R.D. were present to voice their continued displeasure with the council and its position on the regional 911 dispatch system. The group is in the process of circulating petitions to have an initiative placed on the fall ballot in Kettering on the issue.

Apr., 2007 (4/24, Mickey Gogle)
The meetings are taped by cable TV, the April 24th Council meeting focused on two items: The Kettering City School levy and the proposed regional dispatch system. Following a presentation by the Kettering Public Schools on their 4.9 operating levy for the May ballot, the City council voted to support the levy.  There was accusatory testimony by a Citizens Against Regional Dispatch (C.A.R.D.) member in opposition to a regional dispatch system.  The Kettering Volunteer Advisory Council presented three Youth Volunteer Service Awards to students form Fairmont and Alter High Schools who had completed an impressive amount of volunteer work for the schools and community.

Mar., 2007 (3/27, 4/10, Mickey Gogle)
Both meetings were recorded by Miami Valley Communications.  
1. Council approved a policy that limits the use of signs in the Forrer Pointe development area (located in the area of Smithville and Forrer Blvd.) and allowing the Planning Commission to amend the policy, as needed with appeal provision to the council. 
2. Former City Manager of Kettering Steve Husemann, who is now working at the Miami Valley Communications Council (MVCC), gave a report on pending legislation, Ohio Senate Bill 117. He is asking for local governments to oppose the legislation. 
3. It was reported that Citizens Against Regional Dispatch are going door-to-door collecting signatures to place the issue of regional dispatch on the November ballot.

...
Jan., 2007 
(1/23, Mickey Gogle) 
Joseph Wanamaker was appointed to replace Raymond Wasky as Vice Mayor. The City has negotiated with the county for an extension of the deadline for making a decision on the consolidated dispatch system; 12 issues were listed as being involved in any decision about the dispatch system

(1/9, Mickey Gogle) 
Council gave approval for installing a 800 megahert radio system in police department and cruisers.  Much concern was expressed about the unprofessional job being done by subcontractor for DP & L in trimming trees along the right-of-way for DP & L lines.  Open forum being held at the high school cafeteria 1/17 on whether Kettering should join the regional dispatch system.  
On December 19, the  major topic of discussion was the regional dispatch system. The City Manager reported that Kettering needs to move to an 800 megaherts system so that its radios are on the same frequency as other departments (at a cost of $730,000).  This needs to be done regardless of any decision on joining the county system.  There were many comments from the public. Seventeen (17) community leaders spoke in favor of joining the county system and as many Kettering residents spoke in opposition.

Dec., 2006 (12/12 Mickey Gogle) 
2 television stations (besides cable) were at the meeting. There were many people present; about 1/3 were concerned about a zoning change on County Line Road and the rest were opposing the countywide 911 proposal.  The FOP has aggressively opposed the proposal; having gone door-to-door with petitions opposing it. The opposition to the 911 proposal became quite heated when alternative positions or ideas were broached. It was a
very long meeting.

Nov., 2006 (11/14 and 11/28—Mickey Gogle) 
A proposal for the rezoning of the Groby property was presented on the 14th and completed on the 28th. 2/3 of the property will be commercial and 1/3 will be residential. Some area residents spoke in opposition to the plan.  By a vote of 4 to 3, it was authorized for Dayton History to provide operational and curatorial service for the Kettering-Moraine Museum at an annual cost of $24,250.  Karl Keith, County Auditor, explained the new law that requires owners of residential rental property to register their property with the auditor. The state law prohibits the city from requiring landlords to register with the city.  A county-wide dispatch study for police and fire has been completed, but many questions remain. A number of firemen and policemen spoke in opposition to the idea. There is a Feb.1 deadline for local communities to decide if they want the county to handle 911 emergency dispatching.   [Top]

Oct., 2006 (10/10 and 24—Mickey Gogle)
People attending the October 10 meeting of the Kettering City Council were urged to vote for the “Smoke Free Ohio” amendment, for the City Charter amendments 22, 23 and 24, and for the schools’ “Permanent Renewal Levy.” 

At their October 24 meeting, the Kettering City Council approved an increase of 22 cents in the monthly trash rate charged by Waste Management and authorized the city manager to contract with a financial institution to assist the city in implementing and administering the Home Enhancement Loans Program (HELP) for housing rehabilitation. Students from Wright State, Sinclair, Alter High School and Fairmont High School attended the meeting.

Sept., 2006 (9/12 and 26 - Mickey Gogle) 
The City Council approved a 6 mill tax for the ballot; the tax has been in effect since 1948 and has to be voted on each year. The city is going to phase out Kettering’s recycling center because waste management offers curbside recycling pickup and the County has a recycling center west of town which takes more items.  The present site will continue to take yard waste. The September 12th meeting was taped by cable and had groups from Smoke Free Kettering and the Acorn Avenue neighborhood area. The latter were protesting having sidewalks put  in which they don’t want.  At the Sept 26th meeting, the head of the RTA gave an annual report which mentioned that they are reducing administration, have a balanced budget for 2007, and are proposing a new system with major changes in routes.  They are also reinstituting a Senior Transportation Program for Kettering residents who are 60 and over, starting October 1. Buses will have wheelchair lifts.  Individuals who wish to use it must register one week ahead at the recreation center. The Smoke Free Kettering group was in attendance and the meeting was taped by cable. 

Summer, 2006 (Mickey Gogle) 
There were a number of citizens from the Acorn Avenue area protesting installation of sidewalks they do not want and do not want to pay for.  The group threatened a recall of all council members if the sidewalk project moves ahead. There was discussion of phasing out the city recycling center except for collection of yard waste, which will continue.   [Top]

Springboro City Council Meeting 
Oct., 2006
(Oct19—Jane Taylor) 
The Springboro City Council approved a Five-year Capital Improvements Plan and scheduled a budget meeting for November 14 at 6 P.M.

Summer, 2006 (Jane Taylor) 
This summer, Springboro was primarily concerned with zoning issues. An ordinance proposing a charter amendment was defeated by the council. The council was consistently responsive to citizen input. Channel 2 covered the August meeting, but there was no media coverage of the July meeting.

Trotwood City Council  [Top]
Summer, 2006
(Valorie Lee) 
No items of significance to League were identified. There was no media present, but there were a number of citizens with specific interests.   

Yellow Springs Village Council   [Top] 
Jan. 7, 2008
(Sally Mier) 
The majority of the meeting was spent on goal setting for the village in the following areas: 

  • Economics 

  • Land use planning

  • Energy conservation

  • Human relations

and community members in the audience expressed concern about topics that included:  

  1. Sustainable community

  2. Growth

  3. Affordability for village citizens

Dec. 17, 2007 (Sally Mier) 
An accessibly report was given to the council with focus on two locations in the village, specifically the Yellow Springs Credit Union and the Chamber of Commerce, which is located in the old train station. Village solicitor reviewed the Ohio Sunshine Law with board (which included 2 new members). The observer commented on the excellent presentation. There was citizen concern expressed about the safety of the KKK demonstration. Village Chief of Police responded that the KKK followed all requirements for conducting a demonstration including the required petition that indicated the anticipated number of demonstrators and details on signs and placards that would be used. The Chief of Police stated that there was no legitimate reason to deny the KKK their request or to interrupt the demonstration.

Nov. 5, 2007 (Sally Mier)
The Council approved a contract to purchase electricity from the Prairie States Power Plant (located in southern Illinois). This contract will replace the current contract the city holds that is due to expire in 5 years. 
The Prairie State Power Plant is currently under construction and when completed will meet current requirements for clean coal burning in the production of electricity. The Council also approved a contract for purchasing hydroelectric service beginning in the year 2012.

Sept. 17, 2007 (Sally Mier)
Primary topic of discussion was the village’s options for replacing power contracts that will be expiring over the next 5-6
years. Controversy exists between resident who only want “green” energy vs. those who are concerned about securing energy at fixed rates. The proposed contract with AmpOhio will be for “clean coal: energy but has a clause providing for no penalty for withdrawal at a future date. The observer recommends that the League should be observant of Montgomery and other Greene County communities examining similar energy contracts.

Sept. 4, 2007 (Sally Mier)
Council discussed handicapped accessibility and sidewalks in the village. There was also a discussion on the power needs of the village with projections for future needs and sources for the power. Antioch College trustees held a meeting that was open to the public and media. The Council and the Antioch alumni group will continue to monitor the Board of Trustees for future opportunities to provide input and share village concerns.

August 6, 20, 2007 (Sally Mier) 
Discussion items included: 

  • The impending closure of Antioch College in the spring of 2008. A student from Wittenberg is reviewing and preparing a study about the impact of the closure on the village economy. The Antioch Trustees have invited resident participation at a planned Trustee meeting to be held in the near future. The President of the Village Council has been specifically invited to attend. Other agenda items included: