Council holds first reading on Brook Park ordinance; mayor urges caution and broader public input

Grove City Council heard a first reading and public hearing for Ordinance C22-25, a parks-related measure described by the sponsor as directing no further investment in Brook Park and asking the city administrator to examine negotiations; the item will return for second reading and public hearing on June 16.

The ordinance drew substantial commentary in new business from Mayor Stage, who said he believes the ordinance is “ill-timed.” The mayor urged council to avoid removing 16 acres from the city’s asset portfolio without broader public engagement and said discussions with Southwestern City Schools and potential community-center planning remain ongoing. Mayor Stage also clarified that the city canceled a contract for pickleball courts at Brook Park and that staff later used in-house resources for related work, saying reports the city had proceeded with the canceled contract were false.

Mayor Stage asked that the council hold community meetings or an open house to give residents a chance to weigh in on Brook Park plans. He also noted operational considerations — including potential interim uses for Brook Park and coordination with planned community-center facilities — and asked for consistent messaging from council and administration if the city pursues a voter measure related to facilities.

Council took no final action on the ordinance during the meeting beyond holding its first reading; the item remains pending further review and a scheduled second reading/public hearing on June 16.

Next steps: Ordinance C22-25 returns for second reading and public hearing on June 16; Mayor Stage and other councilmembers requested additional public outreach and clarification of negotiation goals before any final action.