Chillicothe Council Approves Resolution for Affordable Housing Development Initiative

The Chillicothe City Council meeting on July 28, 2025, focused on several key issues, including a resolution for affordable housing development and financial appropriations related to opioid settlements and insurance costs.

The meeting began with a report from the Development Committee, which proposed a resolution to authorize Greater Chillicothe and Ross County Development to facilitate affordable housing on city-owned property located at 145. This initiative aims to address the growing need for affordable housing in the area.

In the Finance and Technology Committee report, several important financial matters were discussed. The committee voted to participate in a new national opioid settlement, which is expected to bring additional funds into the city. They also addressed the appropriation of $34,486 in unspent COVID-19 relief funds that must be returned to the U.S. Department of Treasury. Furthermore, the committee discussed the need for additional funds to cover increased costs of citywide insurance policies, which have risen by over $50,000.

The agenda included multiple items related to bond money for purchasing vehicles authorized in the city’s budget. The committee plans to request a waiver of the three-reading rule to expedite the approval process for these purchases.

Other committees, including Human Resources, Parks and Recreation, Safety Service, City Services, and Community Affairs, reported no new items on their agendas.

Mayor Feeney addressed public concerns regarding environmental issues at the former Wherever site, now operated by Howmet. He aimed to clarify the situation surrounding a reported plume, reassuring the community that the city is actively monitoring the site.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the city council's ongoing efforts to address housing needs, manage financial resources effectively, and maintain transparency with the public regarding environmental concerns.