Athens City Council - May 18, 2026

The Athens City Council meeting on May 18, 2026, included several procurement and budget-related discussions. Key items included the approval of an ordinance authorizing the mayor to apply for Ohio Department of Natural Resources funds for park improvements, and an appropriation amendment of $65,000 to the general fund police for replacing voice logger and radio equipment. The council also discussed a $95,000 project to renovate and repair playground equipment at the community center, utilizing the Sourcewell cooperative purchasing agreement. Concerns were raised about the playground turf material, cost justification, and safety inspections. Additionally, a $1.3 million water meter upgrade project was introduced, funded from water and sewer funds, aiming to install radio-read meters for improved water management. The council approved an appropriation ordinance to cover electric costs in the CDBG fund and authorized payment for architectural fees related to a new bathroom project. A cleanup ordinance was passed to adjust expenditures for the completed West Washington sidewalk and safety improvement project. The meeting also included discussions on parking garage payment system updates and upcoming public engagement for utility infrastructure projects.