Service Director Chris Lehi told the committee the city introduced the Tallmadge surplus water agreement on Nov. 10 and that Tallmadge’s council approved the agreement last week. "We introduced this to you on November 10," Lehi said. He described the new contract as a 50-year agreement that replaces the prior 30-year agreement set in 1995.

Lehi said the financial terms mirror prior contracts: Tallmadge will "pay the Akron rate plus 22 and a half percent," plus the usual infrastructure fee charged to other customers. Lehi described the arrangement as "amicable" and said it would provide a sizable long-term water customer.

An unidentified committee member recounted negotiating the earlier deal about 30 years ago. The chair then called for a motion to approve; members voted to approve the agreement, with at least one member recorded as opposed (Mister Lowe). The ordinance was approved in committee and will advance for further action or finalization as required.