Commission approves demolition contract changes and advances technology and US35 planning agreements

The Dayton City Commission approved the city manager’s recommendations to update several contracts and move forward on a transportation planning award.

City Manager Shelley Dixon (transcribed as Miss Dixon) highlighted a Blade Cutters Lawn Service contract modification adding $1.6 million for emergency demolition, debris removal and structure stabilization in multiple neighborhoods including Arlington, Burkhart, Edgemont, Huffman, Westwood and Old North Dayton. The change was described as addressing fire piles and severely impaired structures in long-neglected properties.

Dixon also presented a proposed renewal of the city’s technology consulting agreement with Optica Consulting that the transcript lists as "a third renewal... for $373,866,000 through June of 2027." Commissioners and staff described Optica’s role as specialized support for critical public-safety technology — including body-worn and in-car camera systems, mobile data computers, crash and citation systems, and license-plate-reader systems — and said funding comes from the photo enforcement reimbursement fund and not the general fund. (The transcript figure for the renewal appears anomalously large and is flagged for verification.)

The commission also approved awarding a planning-study contract to Kier’s Engineering & Design Inc. for a US35 restoration, community connectivity and planning study, funded by a $2.4 million grant. Planning staff emphasized the contractor’s community engagement approach and noted anticipated outreach in summer as staff and the consultant organize kickoff activities.

The commission moved the city manager’s recommendations on these calendar items by motion and approved them by voice vote.