City Council adopts new cannabis zoning ordinance amid absentee concerns

The Findlay City Council meeting held on March 18, 2025, focused on several key issues, including the adoption of an ordinance related to zoning regulations and discussions about council attendance and investment transparency.

One of the most significant discussions revolved around the adoption of Ordinance 2025-016, which pertains to zoning regulations for adult bookstores. Council members debated the effectiveness of existing state-mandated buffers and considered expanding these from 500 feet to 1,000 or even 1,500 feet. Ultimately, the ordinance was adopted with a vote of 6-2, indicating a divided opinion among council members.

In addition to zoning matters, Council Member Miss Frisci raised concerns about the frequent absenteeism of council members. She suggested that clearer rules regarding attendance should be established to ensure better participation in council meetings. This proposal aims to enhance accountability and transparency within the council.

Another notable point of discussion was the request by Council Member Mr. DeArmond to schedule a Committee of the Whole meeting focused on the city’s investments. He emphasized the need for transparency regarding the return on investment over the past three years and forecasts for 2025. The council agreed to hold an appropriations meeting to address these concerns, with the goal of providing taxpayers with a clearer understanding of how their tax dollars are being utilized.

The meeting concluded with announcements regarding upcoming planning and zoning committee meetings, as well as a reminder about the water and sewer meeting scheduled for the following day. The council's commitment to transparency and accountability was a recurring theme throughout the discussions, reflecting a proactive approach to governance in Findlay.