The Bellbrook City Council meeting on September 22, 2025, focused on the potential for an advisory election and the methods for surveying community opinions. The discussion highlighted the board of elections' openness to including an advisory election on the ballot, provided it aligns with the primary or general election cycles. Although no formal vote was taken, council members expressed optimism about moving forward with the proposal.

A significant part of the meeting revolved around the logistics and costs associated with conducting a comprehensive survey of residents. Council members discussed various options for gathering community input, including hiring a professional firm to conduct focus groups and analyze data. The estimated cost for a detailed survey could range from $7,000 to $10,000, depending on the depth of the study. Alternatively, a more cost-effective approach could involve using existing resources and online tools to gather data, potentially reducing expenses significantly.

The council also revisited a previous unanimous vote from April 2025, which supported pursuing an advisory election in 2026. However, members acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the costs associated with ballot measures, as these depend on various factors, including the number of local issues on the ballot and the specific election cycle.

As the council considers its next steps, the focus remains on ensuring that any advisory election reflects the community's views and is conducted efficiently. The discussions indicate a commitment to engaging residents and making informed decisions based on their feedback.