LONDON, Ohio – City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to place a natural gas aggregation program on the November ballot, giving residents the option to collectively negotiate utility rates while maintaining the ability to opt out.
The 7-0 vote on Ordinance 140-26 followed a public hearing that drew no comments from residents. The measure will appear before Madison County voters as a ballot question, and if approved, the city would be authorized to solicit bids for a government-run aggregation program.
Council also approved the sale of a 2025 Ford Mustang GT convertible seized from a felony DUI arrest. Proceeds from the sale, authorized under Resolution 146-26 with an emergency clause to expedite the process, will be directed to the law enforcement training fund.
In a separate action, council authorized sealed bids for a 2004 GMC Yukon used by the fire department. The vehicle has 170,149 miles and shows significant wear, including rust, peeling wrap and a deteriorating floorboard, according to a mechanic’s review.
Council approved a $21,000 appropriation for upgrades to city hall equipment, including new microphones. The funding, authorized under Resolution 141-26, passed unanimously.
A resolution to revise job descriptions and add residency requirements for certain positions was held on second reading with no final action taken. The measure also would adjust the maximum hiring age for police and fire positions to align with state law.
Public comment included a complaint from resident Mike McGraer, who was unable to attend but submitted an email read by council. McGraer said his vehicle was towed during the Strawberry Festival from a spot on South Main Street where no parking signs were not clearly posted. He later observed other vehicles parked in front of no parking signs without enforcement, according to the email. McGraer said he was charged a $500 tow fee and the tow company damaged his rental car.
Council President Rich acknowledged the issue and said the city would work on clearer guidelines for enforcement during special events.
The Strawberry Festival president also addressed council, reporting conflicts with businesses and law enforcement over the city’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area rules. Council members pledged to develop clearer guidelines for the DORA program.
City Manager Clawer provided an update on the transition to Rumpke for sanitation services, which takes effect Aug. 1. A mailer will be sent to residents explaining the change, which will maintain the same pickup days and service structure.
Councilman Eids urged residents to be respectful with fireworks over the holiday weekend, noting the police department posted information about permitted times and dates.
The next council meeting is scheduled for July 14.