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Whitehouse council tables two annexation ordinances after initial readings
Summary
The Village of Whitehouse held first readings on two annexation petitions—RF Asset, LLC and Travis and Amanda Ratcliff—but moved to table both the ordinances and accompanying service resolutions after council members pressed for more information about service impacts and petition validity.
The Village of Whitehouse Council held first readings on two annexation ordinances on Jan. 20, 2026, then voted to table both measures after questions about service impacts and petition validity.
Solicitor Kevin Heban told council that Lucas County had accepted annexation petitions filed by RF Asset, LLC (Petition 2026-1) and by Travis and Amanda Ratcliff (Petition 2026-2), and that the village has 20 days to accept or reject such county-notified petitions. "It is a valid request because the properties have changed hands which allows for the annexation request," Heban said, explaining why the petitions met the county's filing requirements.
Council members pressed staff about what annexation would change for residents. Councilman Dave Riggenbach asked whether annexation would create new public-works obligations such as running waterlines or addressing nuisance properties; Solicitor Heban and staff said no immediate public-works requirement was triggered by the petitions, and noted that outside sewer and water rates are generally higher while village income-tax revenues would flow to Whitehouse if properties are annexed.
After the initial readings, Council voted to table Ordinance 01-2026 (RF Asset) and Ordinance 02-2026 (Ratcliff). Council also introduced, then tabled, companion resolutions indicating the village would provide utilities, fire and police protection for the properties if annexed. All tabling motions carried unanimously (6–0).
Councilmembers indicated a desire for more time and local outreach before final votes. Heban suggested completing a first reading now and making a final decision at a subsequent meeting; Council members asked for clarity about any negotiations with township trustees and about communications to affected residents beforehand. Mayor Rich Bingham said he planned to meet with township representatives the following morning to discuss concerns raised by trustees.
Next steps: council tabled final action on the ordinances and service resolutions; the petitions remain pending. Council members said they expect the items to return for further consideration after additional information is provided and staff follow-up with neighboring jurisdictions and stakeholders.
