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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    
Miami Township 
Miami Valley Election Protection Coalition   
Miamisburg City Council 
Springboro City Council
Trotwood City Council
Yellow Springs Village Council

Beavercreek Township Trustees  
April 7 (Rebecca Jarvi) 
Trustees approved the renewal of seven memberships for fire personnel to a fitness center. The memberships are shared between all the members of the fire department. It was noted in approving the renewal that since 2003 medical claims have dropped in half and lost-time claims have also dropped. Trustees opened discussion of remodeling of Fire Stations 62 and 64. Three architects have submitted plans. The Township Fiscal Officer proposed establishing a new fund with the money from the sale of the Gosinger property for the purpose to acquire and improve land for recreational purposes. No vote was taken on the proposal.

March 10, 2008 (Rebecca Jarvi) 
Trustee Carol Graff will represent the township on the Greene County Combined Health District Advisory Council. Trustees approved funding for the township to participate in the Shared Records Management System which includes other Greene County municipalities. This is a pilot program for the state and involves a Public Safety Information Sharing Network that features vehicle location, unit dispatching and E -911 cellular call mapping.  A request for construction of an enclosed grandstand at Rotary Park was denied, noting there were no funds allocated for such a project. The Sox organization, which had submitted the request, was advised to submit another plan and the Trustees offered to host a meeting of the various different groups that use the ball field to work out a coordinated plan.

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  
March 25, 2008 (Beatrice Delph) 
The primary election was certified by the Board. Compensatory time was again discussed. There is a policy in place for hourly employees but not for salaried employees. Dale Henry, regional liaison, will see what other Boards are doing. So the item was tabled. A person voting at the Dayton Avenue Baptist Church reported that people at the church were handing out brochures at the polls. The church stated that if they could not hand out the brochures, the church could not be used as a polling place. The Director will be investigating further.  The Board went over the 2008 Budget. They anticipate additional costs because of the November election. The Deputy Director is working on a policy manual and job descriptions for all employees. The state is asking for 11 counties to volunteer for a post election audit. Seven percent of voters will be counted. Only those Boards of Elections that don’t have recounts will be considered. The Board voted to participate in the audit.

Feb. 28, 2008 (Bea Delph) 
Attendance: Four Board members, two staff persons, one person from the prosecutor’s office. Other groups present: Jennifer  Alexander from the Ohio Election Justice Campaign, Dale Henry Regional Liaison for the Secretary of State.
Agenda items of importance to the League:
Discussed was the Youth at the Booth program. A brochure from Kids Voting describes the program. The Board of Elections (BOE) wants to involve kids from area high schools. They need at least 80 more people for November, preferably kids. The Group gets the kids and they do the training. They also go thru the BOE training. The Xenia Library will also make computers available to poll workers that don’t have computers so that they can go through the training provided online. The Board voted to use the Youth at the Booth program.  The Board discussed the need to change the policy for public requests of documents. They set limits on checks and also will give the person making the request one person’s e-mail and phone number to deal with at the BOE.  The Board voted to accept the new policy.  The Board than proceeded to do the Public Logic and Accuracy testing. They checked the accuracy of the Diebold touch screen voting machines as well of the optical scanners used to read the paper ballots.  The Director then explained the process of setting up for the election.  The Director mentioned that voters will have the option to vote by paper ballot or by the touch screen voting machines.

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]    
May 20, 2008 (Vivienne Himmell) 
The board discussed a problem that exists with polling places at schools. Due to security issues, schools are refusing to allow polling places in their building. The Board of Elections is working on the problem, and lobbying for making Election Day a school holiday. Another solution might be to work with superintendents to possibly make the day a teacher in-service day so that no children are in the school.  Director Steve Harsman announced a Summer Conference on June 23-25 given by the office of Secretary of State at the Columbus Hyatt Hotel. He announced that his personal goal is to have well trained poll workers in this county, with an equal number of Rs and Ds at each polling location for the General Election.  There will be open enrollment for poll workers with six or seven classes each; there will be Power Point presentations on the Web site; and the County Commissioners have passed a resolution to get employers to sign on to poll worker training. A review of the Ohio Revised Code showed that that poll working is NOT considered political activity.  There was a discussion of additional security at Boards of Elections offices which would be provided by the Secretary of State’s Office– such as swipe cards or other forms of entrance.  It also was noted that if anyone has tried to access the SoS Web site that it is being updated, so there may be some delay.  Once the updating is complete it will have a whole new look and should be easier to navigate.

A problem exists with polling places at schools. Due to security issues, some schools are refusing to allow polling places in their building. The Board of Elections is working on the problem, and lobbying for making Election Day a school holiday. Also dealing with superintendents to possibly make the day a teacher in-service day so that no children are in the school.  The director announced a Summer Conference on June 23-25 given by the office of Secretary of State at the Columbus Hyatt Hotel. He announced that his goal is to have well trained poll workers in this county, with an equal number of Republicans and Democrats.  There will be open enrollment for poll workers with six or seven classes each; there will be Power Point presentations on the Web site; and the County Commissioners have passed a resolution to get employers to sign on to poll worker training. Research shows that poll working is NOT a political activity, per the O.R.C.  There was a discussion of additional security at Boards of Elections which would be provided by the Secretary of State’s Office– such as swipe cards or other forms of entrance.  In terms of Issues on the ballot, May 22nd was the deadline for filing for the August election. There were no filings as of the date of this meeting.  If anyone has tried to access the Secretary of State's Web site, please note that it is being updated, so there may be some delay. However, it has a whole new look and should be easier to navigate.

March 25, 2008 (Sharon Harmer) 
The Secretary of State has asked for volunteers to participate in a mock audit of recounts in order to help set standards for 2008 elections. She is asking for 11 boards of elections to participate. The Board was concerned about current exhaustion of staff so did not volunteer. The certification process of provisional ballots was reported. In general, the Board allowed ballots or “remakes” whenever law permitted. Errors reported included voting on issues as well as candidates (17 year olds), multiple sets of ballots, inadequate marking of ballot (marginal marks, pen color, etc).  Some ballots were not allowed due to the following legal requirements: Non-uniform marks (checks and ‘x”s, not providing proper identification within 10 days of elections, printing instead of signing the affidavit, incomplete voter information (information not all there, voter not registered in this county, giving PO Box instead of street).  There are still a few provisional ballots to count/remake because information from other counties (residency change) has not been received. Certification is done 21 days after the election. The federal government is working on revisions as to what will trigger an automatic recount; the state may come up with such legislation as well as standards for “best practices.”

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] 
June 10, 2008 (Lee Mills) 
The director of the construction trades program at Fairmont High School presented a report about the program for the past school year. The program involved 10 seniors and 21 juniors from Kettering, Centerville and Oakwood who built a total of 32 sheds, a garage and an almost-complete house during the school year. The home was built on land donated by the City of Kettering. The city has procured a grant to help with this project which has been very successful and popular with the students. Several of the participating students acquired jobs in construction for the summer because of this training.

May 6, 2008 (Lee Mills) 
Board authorized expenditures for After-Prom Committee for Fairmont High School. Accepted resolution of support of new regulations for high school commencement. Discussed recognition for school nurses. Held induction ceremony for new members of the Chester Rousch Educators Hall of Fame.

March 18, 2008 (Lee Mills) 
Board expressed support for Youth Month with a proclamation. A report of the success of the career tech program was given. Board voted to approve the purchase of property on Delta Avenue for $1.00 from the City of Kettering. The property will be used by the trades program to construct a home.  School Treasurer reported that district’s financial status is stable at the present time, but cautioned that from 2001 and on the district will lose 1.7 million a year due to the State of Ohio taking local taxes from area businesses. It was commented that this is a state-wide problem with all public school districts.

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] 
June 24, July 8, July 22 and August 12, 2008 (Mickey Gogle) 
Council approved a number of summer project that included in part: replacement of street lights, building of sidewalks and curbing, purchase of computer software for Tax Division office. Council also authorized funds to expand Camp Fantastic Program at JFK and Greenmont School buildings for low income student to participate and also authorized provision of youth counseling services for Kettering students, including those attending private schools. City Manager was authorized to purchase GPS mapping software and associated equipment for the Public Safety Communications Center to assist in locating cell phone calls.  A report was presented on property maintenance complaints. It was documented that 20% of apartments located in the City of Kettering are in violation of maintenance regulations.  Council voted to place a bond levy on the November 4 ballot for improvements to the city’s parks and recreation facilities. The levy would replace an existing levy which is expiring and would not be an increase in taxes.  Mayor Patterson has been appointed to a task force to look into reuse of the General Motors site located in Kettering.  Council approved East Dorothy Lane & Wilmington Pike intersection improvement project. Council accepted various grants for a variety of items including demolition of a building in the Kettering business park, funds for Kettering Youth Council and upgrades for Kettering Public Safety Communication Center.  Council also approved the placement of a bond issue on the November ballot for improving and expanding the city Recreation Center and various parks located in the city. The bond issue will replace an expiring levy so there will be no increase in taxes.

April 22, May 13 and May 27, 2008 (Mickey Gogle) 
Amended zoning of Arbor Commercial Center to allow a limited menu restaurant with a drive-thru window.  Rezoned Tannenberg Kennels from suburban residential classification to residential development to allow for upgrading of property. Reminded Kettering residents that mulch is available for personal property use.  Council voted to proceed with joint project with Centerville for sidewalks, curbs and road resurfacing in area on Whipp Road from Brainard to Wilmington Pike. City will be obtaining equipment that will be able to identify 911 calls from cell phones.  Council accepted a grant from the Kettering Parks Foundation to provide financial assistance to city children unable to afford city camp programs.

April 8, 2008 (Mickey Gogle) 
Council proclaimed April 19 as Arbor Day in Kettering and will hold a tree planting. The City of Kettering has been proclaimed a Tree City by the Arbor Day Association for the past 25 years. The city has received a grant from the Kellogg Foundation to cover 50% of the cost to make Pondview Park more accessible. The Optimist International is giving the City of Kettering an award and declaring the program as the Project of the Year.  Council granted a permit for a limited menu drive-in restaurant in the Arbor Commercial Center south of the former Groby’s Garden Center. The city will hold public hearings to rezone Tannenberg Kennels (located on West Stroop Road) to consider an upgrade of the kennel, not to increase the number of animals allowed to be housed.  The council authorized the city manager to enter into an agreement with the Ohio Department of Transportation to replace traffic signals, resurface parts of Dorothy Lane and reconstruct portions of Wilmington Pike in the area of Ansel and Smithville.

March 4, 2008 (Mickey Gogle)
Council approved proclamation declaring March to be Youth Month. Students accepting the proclamation told the council about the many benefits that "Partners for Health Youth" provided.  Council approved the resurfacing of running /walking track at the Kettering Recreation Center.  Ohio Representative Jon Husted will be holding an Open House for constituents at the Kettering City Building.  Mayor Don Patterson is working on holding a meeting with officials from other surrounding communities to take a pro-active stance on the housing foreclosure issue in the suburban areas.

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]

MIAMI TOWNSHIP  
March 25, 2008 (Thelma Schneider) 
Meeting opened with a reading of “Operation Iraqi Freedom” casualties. The majority of the work session dealt with personnel issues, an employee manual update and discussion of an ED/GE application. There was a presentation from a new company wishing to open a franchise youth entertainment business in the township.

Miami Valley Election Protection Coalition 
March 14, 2008 (Sandra Mants) 
Coalition members gathered for an initial planning meeting for the fall Presidential Election activities. A brief discussion was held about problems encountered by voters during the March 4 Primary Election. The majority of the problems were related to jamming of the paper record on the DRE electronic machines.  Discussion noted that this problem has been a concern since the electronic machines were put in place. Planning for activities in the fall election will need to take this recurring issue into account.  Plans for Election Protection activities for the balance of this calendar year were tentatively made as follows:  
1. APRIL_MAY Once the Primary Election results are certified a request for public information will be made to obtain a report on the number and reasons for provisional balloting during the Primary Election. This information will assist the coalition in identifying any problem areas of pollworker training and/or voter education that need to be addressed before the fall election.  
2. JUNE_SEPTEMBER The focus during the summer months will be designing and distributing educational materials on basic voter rights and working on encouraging the public to take responsibility for updating their voter registration information (address changes) well in advance of the fall election.  
3. OCTOBER As the fall election gets closer the coalition will focus on publicizing the availability of early voting as well as educating about voter rights and voter ID laws.  

MIAMISBURG CITY COUNCIL 
April 1, 2008 (Thelma Schneider)  
The majority of the meeting dealt with discussion and passage of ordinances involving various contract between the City of Miamisburg and organizations with whom the city contract for services. There was discussion and planning for Cruise the Berg events scheduled for various dates in June, July, August and September. Mayor Church commented on the League observer’s presence and invited our continued participation. 

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] 
May 19, 2008 (Sally Mier) 
Greene County Solid Waste Management plan was adopted by council. A capitol improvements plan will be developed for current and future distribution and transmission of electrical current. Village manager was authorized to develop rules and regulations for sidewalk repair, replacement and installation. A special report was presented by Verizon to install a cell tower on village property to enhance service to village residents.

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: 

• Land use as outlined in the village comprehensive plan 

• The need for guidelines to outline responsibilities / liability and financial obligations for Village owned property that is used by others (e.g. Greene County Yellow Springs Branch Library) 

• A citizen comment form was initiated to facilitate community comment during a council meeting.

Apr., 2007 (4/2 - Sally Mier )
An annexation request has been withdrawn due to the sale of the property. Discussion and reading of Resolution on the Designation of Building Official / Unified Building Codes. Channel 13 and the Yellow Springs News were also in attendance.

Jan., 2007 
(Jan. 16, Millard Mier) 
A new Council member was sworn in. All ordinances passed; one council member recused herself due to conflict of interest. The 
 issue of “Planned Growth” evidenced some controversy. A number of citizens are resistant to Ordinance 2006-25, Section 3, that  describes cooperation with Miami township regarding “development”.

(Jan. 2, Sally Mier) 
A proposed annexation had an outside study and report which was discussed.  The state has adopted a unified Building Code, which Yellow Springs ( a home rule community) may adopt or not.  Three candidates have applied to fill the seat recently vacated.  

Nov., 2006 (Nov 6—Sally Mier) 
A Yellow Springs News reporter was present as well as Channel 13. School students were there to speak in favor of the levy. There was a review of the village charter.  It was mostly “housekeeping” in that it was bringing the charter up to date to reflect compliance with state laws and current village practices.

Oct., 2006 (Oct. 2 - Sally Mier) 
In petitions, a request for annexation of property just west of the high school and south of Dayton-Yellow Springs road was received. Zoning will be addressed at the next council meeting. Factions in the community have objected to that area being used for commercial development but it was advocated as an ancillary business center by a “Smart Growth” conference two years ago. In the Public Hearing section, supplemental appropriations were approved and 2007 goals were tabled to the next meeting.  Greene County Health Commissioner Mark McDowell talked about the replacement levy of 0.5 mill on the ballot, which replaces a current 0.5 mill levy. The replacement will result in additional money for the County Health Department because of increased property values.  There was an executive session on personnel. The meeting was covered by the local public access channel and there was a Yellow Springs News reporter at the meeting. There were approximately 8 residents attending the meeting.  

Summer, 2006 (Sally Mier) 
A major topic for the September 5th meeting was budget policies along with the audit results (the latter was a closed meeting prior to the council). Coming agenda items include personnel (new treasurer and village manager), the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, committee appointments and contributions to miscellaneous funds. Channel 13 videotaped the meeting and there were 15 citizens in attendance.   [Top]