LONDON, Ohio — City Council on July 2 unanimously approved placing a natural gas aggregation program on the ballot and authorized the sale of a seized Ford Mustang and a fire department vehicle, while fielding complaints about selective towing enforcement during the recent Strawberry Festival.

Council held a public hearing on Ordinance 140-26, which would authorize a governmental natural gas aggregation program with opt-out provisions. No residents offered comments, and council later voted unanimously to adopt the ordinance and direct the Madison County Board of Elections to put the question before voters.

In other business, council adopted Resolution 135-26 authorizing advertisement for bids for a city truck no longer needed, after a mechanic’s report detailed extensive issues with the vehicle.

Council also approved Resolution 141-26, appropriating up to $21,000 for equipment and upgrades at city hall, including new microphones.

Two vehicle sales drew unanimous support. Resolution 146-26 authorized bids for a 2025 Ford Mustang GT Convertible seized in a felony DUI case, with proceeds going to the law enforcement training fund. Council added an emergency clause to the measure. Resolution 147-26 authorized bids for a 2004 GMC Yukon from the fire department, which has 170,149 miles and rust issues including a deteriorating floorboard.

Council held Resolution 145-26, which would revise job descriptions, add residency requirements, and adjust the maximum age for police and fire positions to align with state law. Members said they needed more discussion and took no vote.

During audience concerns, council President Josh Peters read an email from resident Mike McGraer, who said his rental car was towed during the Strawberry Festival from a spot on South Main Street where no parking signs were not clearly posted. McGraer said he later saw at least two other vehicles parked in front of no parking signs during the festival and that a police officer told him he was “not sure” if those cars were allowed to be there. McGraer said he faced a $500 tow bill and that the tow company damaged his rental car.

“I can understand his frustration if officers towed him from a spot and then were blatantly ignoring the fact that there were people parked in a no parking zone as the festival was ongoing,” Peters said.

Council members acknowledged the complaint and said they would review enforcement procedures.

Resident Raymond Anthony asked about the transition to Rumpke for sanitation services. City Manager said the contract has been signed, Rumpke will take over Aug. 1, and a mailer will go out to residents. He said service days and pickup schedules will remain the same, and the city’s three sanitation employees have interviewed with Rumpke.

Council also discussed the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area during the Strawberry Festival, with festival president and council acknowledging a lack of clear guidance that led to disputes with businesses and law enforcement.

Councilman Greg Eids urged residents to be respectful with fireworks over the July 4th holiday, noting fire risks and late-night disturbances. Police Chief said the department posted a link on social media outlining permitted times and dates for fireworks.

Council adjourned after wishing residents a safe holiday.