Xenia City Council reflects on successful July 4 celebrations and plans for future events

The City Council of Xenia, Ohio, convened on July 10, 2025, to discuss various community matters, including a recap of the recent Red, White, and Blue Block Party and fireworks festival, as well as updates on local infrastructure projects.

The meeting commenced with a commendation for the successful execution of the recent Independence Day celebrations. Council members expressed gratitude to numerous contributors, including the Sunny Calf family for their financial support of the fireworks, the Xenia Rotary for coordinating activities, and various city staff members who played pivotal roles in organizing the event. Mayor Merriman highlighted the importance of community involvement, thanking volunteers and local businesses for their participation, which helped create a festive atmosphere for families.

In addition to the celebrations, the council addressed ongoing infrastructure concerns, particularly regarding the installation of fiber optic lines by UltraFire. Councilman Reynolds clarified that the city does not regulate the installation process, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). He emphasized that while the city can set standards for work done in public rights-of-way, it does not oversee the actual fieldwork conducted by utility companies.

Council members also shared personal reflections on the July 4 festivities, with several expressing regret for missing the event due to illness but acknowledging the positive feedback from constituents who attended. The council discussed the need for improved mental health services in the community, with Mayor Merriman indicating that discussions would continue to identify gaps in care and potential solutions.

As the meeting progressed, Councilman Crawford reported on the Property Management Committee's recent discussions, which included housing preservation initiatives and downtown parking strategies. The council expressed a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents through these efforts.

In closing, the mayor announced plans for a city-wide worship service scheduled for July 27, inviting community members to participate. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter an executive session to discuss personnel matters, indicating ongoing administrative considerations within the city government.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's dedication to community engagement and infrastructure development, setting the stage for future initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Xenia.