The Bellbrook City Council meeting on September 22, 2025, focused on several key issues, including community engagement strategies for upcoming surveys and discussions on short-term rental regulations.

One of the primary topics was the need for effective communication with residents regarding a forthcoming survey. Council members debated various methods to inform the public, including hiring a consultant for approximately $1,500 to ensure the survey's accuracy and reliability. Alternative suggestions included sending postcards to voters or including a notice on water bills, although the latter was deemed less effective due to the number of non-resident customers. The council expressed a strong desire to engage the community, emphasizing the importance of public input in decision-making processes.

In addition to the survey discussion, the council reviewed the current status of short-term rental regulations in Bellbrook. It was reported that there are approximately six active short-term rental listings in the city, generating an average income of about $9,000 annually. Council members discussed the potential need for a registration process to better monitor these rentals and address any complaints, particularly regarding noise and parking issues. While there was some support for reducing the minimum rental duration from 25 days, most council members agreed that there was no pressing demand for such changes at this time. Instead, they favored maintaining the current regulations while implementing a registration requirement to facilitate better oversight.

The meeting concluded with updates from the city manager, who highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects and community education efforts related to an upcoming public safety fund ballot issue. The council's commitment to transparency and community involvement was evident throughout the discussions, reflecting a proactive approach to governance in Bellbrook.