Meeting Observed: Kent City Council
Date of Meeting: 7/15/2026
Format: In-person
Meeting Summary:
Council members discussed various applications for grants involving the Fire Department (new suits) and a kitchen model for demonstrations that could be moved easily; also approved the hiring of three firefighters if a federal grant can be secured to limit the use of overtime. The city's budget, to be sent to the county auditor, was discussed and approved for the second reading. It appeared the council did pass a contract with city manager Dave Ruller.
The members then moved to a work session on a major relocation of sewer lines in downtown Kent, replacing lines that are actually running or actually "hanging" along the river and deteriorating.
A citizens' advisory board has been meeting to discuss which amenities could be added to downtown to make it more attractive. Ideas include better River Access and lighting that focuses UP on downtown bridges, highlighting them. A small splashpad park is in the mix, with additional seating or park-like areas where the river could serve as a relaxing backdrop. That could include a better river deck or accessible viewing spots.
The work is expected to have a pump station across from Sheetz on 43 at Fairchild. Lines would cross the river, then run to the rear of Wright Heating and Cooling. It would continue behind all buildings until the Hometown Bank Plaza, where it would move a few feet up on East Main and continue in front of Over Easy, the former rail station, down until College Street, where it would move under the Haymaker Bridge, potentially affecting the Haymaker Market through to Stow Street. Limited discussion began about where to relocate the Saturday Market if it needs to be held during its summer run from May through the end of October. No firm decisions are needed.
Capital programs including infrastructure can be found in the 2025 plan
https://www.kentohio.gov/media/s5cdillp/2025-cap-plan-book-final-version...
Members Present: Melissa Celko, Eric Dreger, Benjamin Tipton, Heidi Shaffer, Jeff Clapper, Sarah Wesley
Absent: Robin Turner, Ill; Tracy Wallach, unknown; Chris Hook, out of country for work
Media: n/a
Public Notice: Yes
Agenda: Yes
Minutes: Yes
Observer: Barb Hipsman Springer