Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Services And Infrastructure topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Public Service committee moves multiple infrastructure and equipment items to consent
Summary
The Public Service Committee placed multiple service and capital items on the consent agenda, ranging from traffic‑calming signage on East Archwood Avenue to public works contracts, truck leases and a water‑main loan application.
Committee members approved placing a batch of service items on the consent agenda after brief staff presentations. Items moved to consent included:
- A measure to remove "through street" designation on portions of East Archwood Avenue so the corridor can be designated a consistent 25 mph speed zone. Staff said the move supports traffic‑calming across mixed residential and business areas and that ODOT requires the designation change as part of traffic engineering analysis.
- Authorization to solicit bids and enter into contracts for repairs to in‑ground service pits at the motor equipment facility. Staff described the pits, installed in 1973, as deteriorated and necessary for mechanics to access vehicle undercarriages.
- Authorization to enter into a 36‑month lease with Premier Truck Sales and Rental, Inc., for two 11‑yard packer (rear‑loader bulk pickup) trucks to replace 2013 and 2014 units; staff said the smaller trucks aid in alley and festival service.
- Legislation to apply for low‑interest loans from the Ohio EPA / Water Supply Revolving Loan Account or Ohio Water Development Authority for the Water Main Replacement Program 2024. Staff said they are seeking a 30‑year loan at an interest rate of about 3.22% at present and expect the loan to finance roughly 20,000 linear feet of main replacement.
- A resolution declaring Arbor Day (April 25, 2025) and Arbor Week (April 28–May 2, 2025) in Akron; committee members also moved to suspend the rules so the resolution can be recognized promptly. Council and staff highlighted tree‑planting events, including a planting at Joy Park and school plantings in partnership with the tree commission and Akron Public Schools.
Most items were agreed to for consent without extended debate. Staff indicated modest costs for signage associated with the Archwood change (about $500) and said the motor equipment facility repairs will be publicly bid. The loan application item included staff estimates of the current interest rate and loan term; final loan approval is contingent on state agency review.
