Finance committee recommends salary ordinance adding crime analyst, code enforcement and deputy public service roles

Grandview Heights’ finance committee recommended approval on second reading of a nonunion salary ordinance that adds positions city staff say are needed to support growth and restore service capacity.

The committee moved the ordinance forward after staff described four changes to nonunion titles that align with positions budgeted for 2026. Director Maxwell told the committee the additions reflect roles included in the proposed budget and that two of the four positions represent a net increase in headcount. “The new position titles include changing assistant director of service to deputy director of service slash engineering manager, adding a code enforcement technician 1 position, [and] a crime analyst position,” Maxwell said.

Why it matters: Staff said the new deputy public service director/engineering manager would provide in-house project management and technical expertise—functions now largely contracted to EP Ferris—and create supervisory depth for the service department. Mayor Kearns said residents respond better to a city project manager than an outside contractor, and that the role would improve communication on large capital projects such as the 1st Avenue work.

Code enforcement: Committee members discussed re-establishing a distinct property maintenance enforcement role. Staff said the position had been funded earlier but not filled; the ordinance changes the title and signals intent to recruit next year. Council members raised concerns about tone and timing, noting some residents might be surprised after years of lower-intensity enforcement. Staff emphasized that public education would precede any large-scale enforcement effort and that updated property maintenance codes and certification training are being considered.

Crime analyst role: Police leadership described the proposed civilian crime analyst as a data-focused position intended to support detectives by analyzing reports, mapping patterns, preparing prosecutorial packets and managing evidence-room logistics. The chief said the role is common across regional agencies and would allow sworn staff to concentrate on investigations. The committee also discussed data partnerships with state and county labs and task forces and cautioned that any advanced analytic tools would require verified best practices and training.

Fire prevention staffing: Although the assistant fire marshal is part of the collective bargaining unit (and not the nonunion ordinance), the fire chief briefed the committee on restoring a deputy/assistant role. Chief Eisenacher said the city is “several 100 of our annual inspections down that weren't happening” and described the hire as necessary to maintain twice-yearly inspections for high life-safety occupancies, update pre-plans, and provide succession planning for Fire Marshal Chris Everard.

Vote and next steps: On second reading the committee voted by voice to recommend approval. A committee member moved to recommend the ordinance and it was seconded; members answered “aye” during a voice vote, and the recommendation will go to council for final action. Staff repeatedly stated the right-of-way to change or drop positions remains open at third reading if council chooses not to fund them.