Meeting Observed: Kent City Council

Date of Meeting: 5/20/2026

Format: Observer was “virtual”

Meeting Summary:

In a relatively light business meeting, the Council accepted strictly administrative proposals that they had discussed previously. Included was a motion accepting a Standing Rock Cemetery proposal of a 0.6 mill continuing tax. Residents of Kent City and Franklin Township pay maintenance fees for the cemetery.

In another discussion, the city agreed to include the Ohio Department of Transportation in a redesign of SR 59 from Horning Road to SR 261. It will include shifting some of the widths to accommodate buses on the right, if needed, on a four-lane design with center turn lanes and pedestrian crossings.
In council comments, Heidi Shaffer Bish (Ward 5) said a constituent who lives near mostly student housing is leaving. Heidi said he fears the resale of his home will be affected by the “beer bong tables” that are permanent structures on home lawns along Summit and side streets. She asked that the question be referred to a committee to explore options.

Members Present: Eric Dreger, Jack Amhrein, Jeff Clapper, Heidi Shaffer Bosh, Tracy Wallach, Benjamin Tipton, Chris Hook

Absent: Melissa Celko (none mentioned), Robin Turner (health)

Media: Unknown

Public Notice: Yes

Agenda: Yes

Minutes: Yes

Observer: Barb Hipsman Springer