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Council adopts sustainability funding, economic activation program and EV charger contract; multiple first readings set
Summary
Oxford City Council approved $16,000 for sustainability projects, adopted an economic activation program to encourage property reinvestment, and awarded a $95,489 contract for six DC fast EV chargers; several ordinances (including a Glenwood rate update) received first readings and will return for later votes.
Oxford City Council on March 10 approved several resolutions and contracts intended to support sustainability, economic reinvestment and EV infrastructure.
Sustainability: Council adopted a resolution authorizing allocation of $16,000 for two unbudgeted sustainability projects — technical assistance to explore solar at the closed landfill (estimated $14,000) and a battery‑recycling program (estimated $2,000) to pay recycling costs for collection bins placed in municipal buildings and the police lobby. Staff said the funds are available in the city’s budgeted economic development and sustainability accounts.
Economic activation: Council adopted an economic activation program presented by staff and endorsed by the Community Improvement Corporation. The program is designed to proactively notify underused commercial properties, encourage voluntary reinvestment through facade grants and low‑interest loans, and offer a 16‑month activation window before stronger enforcement. Staff clarified the program applies to non‑safety code violations; immediate hazards would still require remediation.
EV chargers: Council awarded a contract to EV United LLC not to exceed $95,489 to install six direct‑current fast chargers (four in the surface lot near town parks; two at the municipal building). The project is funded through an ODOT grant administered by regional partners; staff noted potential additional costs for transformers (projected in a supplemental budget item later in the meeting). Council adopted the contract; the recorded vote contained one opposition.
Other business: Council held first readings on housekeeping right‑of‑way dedications along US Route 27 and an ordinance to update the city’s franchise/rate ordinance for Glenwood Energy (natural gas). The Glenwood proposal would raise fixed monthly meter charges for residential and commercial customers while adjusting per‑unit service rates; staff said the application is consistent with PUCO principles and will return for further council consideration.
Votes at a glance (select items): - Resolution: $16,000 for sustainability — adopted (unanimous voice vote). - Resolution: Economic Activation Program — adopted (voice vote). - Resolution: EV chargers contract (EV United LLC) — adopted (recorded; one opposed). - Ordinance: Annexation of Miami University airport parcel — adopted on second reading (roll call recorded; majority yes).
Council discussed but did not adopt the supplemental budget appropriation on first reading; staff will return with clarifications on mayor’s court start‑up costs and transformer contingencies.
