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Mayor delivers upbeat State of the City highlighting public safety upgrades, redevelopment and volunteerism
Summary
The mayor presented a State of the City video Feb. 24 emphasizing fiscal awards, public-safety equipment and regional cooperation, economic redevelopment projects, expanded senior and youth services, and volunteer contributions following a year of infrastructure investments.
The mayor delivered a State of the City address by video during the Feb. 24 Kettering City Council meeting, saying the city enters 2026 with “deep gratitude and tremendous optimism.” The presentation highlighted continued fiscal discipline — including the city’s 43rd consecutive Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting and a 40th Distinguished Budget Presentation Award — as evidence of Kettering’s financial stewardship.
The mayor credited staff for growth in city services and operations: “We brought on 20 full‑time employees, eight part‑time team members, and promoted 14 staff across departments,” the mayor said, and noted a new income‑tax pilot that allows tax professionals to file electronically for clients.
Public safety featured prominently. The address listed recent police investments — added drones and a SWAT transport vehicle — and noted the department’s reaccreditation. Fire department upgrades included delivery of engine 36, a rescue medic unit, mobile data terminals across apparatus and new automatic chest‑compression systems; the mayor said those changes support response capabilities and lifesaving care.
Economic development highlights included several redevelopment projects and the Barnes project, described as a historic building conversion to a small‑business and entrepreneurship hub in partnership with Kettering City Schools and local foundations, with construction slated for later in 2026. The city also cited about 100 new jobs tied to small businesses and a microenterprise assistance program that helped 11 local owners.
On community services, the mayor noted expanded senior programming — including a $16,000 Miami Valley Age Friendly Grant to support ADA improvements at the Charles Iram Senior Center — and new accessibility measures at youth programs, such as nursing support at summer day camps.
The address also outlined sustainability and parks initiatives: a new sustainability office website, composting and recycling drop‑off locations at Indian Ruffle Park, and the opening of Laam Garden Plaza. Volunteers were singled out as central to city life: the mayor said “over 400 volunteers donated 14,500 hours” in 2025.
Why it matters: The address frames the city’s priorities — public safety, infrastructure, economic revitalization and community programs — and signals projects and grants residents can expect in 2026, from the comprehensive land‑use plan to targeted capital improvements.
Council returned to regular business after the presentation; the mayor closed the video thanking staff and residents for their service and inviting the community to participate in America 250 events throughout the year.
