Powell · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Powell public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
EV charging station rates
The city's public chargers operate at a loss. A recommended switch from per-minute billing to $0.46 per kilowatt-hour could bring the program toward break-even while keeping rates in line with central Ohio fast chargers.
Pediatric cancer awareness and The 2816 Foundation
Council honored the Schreiner family, whose son Alex is battling medulloblastoma, and their nonprofit The 2816 Foundation, which helps central Ohio families with the financial strain of childhood cancer treatment.
Powell Pool partnership spending
The city doesn't own the pool but is planning about $1 million in improvements over five years to keep it open. Chairman Counts suggested it's time to discuss whether a city-spending pool should become a public facility.
County tourism marketing map
Destination Delaware wants $2,000 for Powell's inclusion in a countywide tourism map; the PDC has $25,000 budgeted and will consider a full marketing agreement in August.
Redwood development final acceptance
The city formally accepted the finished roads, sidewalks, and sewer lines in the Redwood development at 3041 Home Road, which starts the reimbursement process to the developer under the 2023 development agreement.
RITA delegate appointment
Finance Director Samantha Borchers will cast Powell's vote at the Regional Income Tax Agency's annual member meeting, with Assistant Finance Director Tina Birch as her alternate — a small role that touches how well the city collects income taxes.
City records retention schedule updates
The city updated how long it keeps records across departments — hiring files, grievance and investigation records, payroll, tax files, and bids. Longer retention for employment and investigation records aligns Powell with Ohio and federal requirements.
Property purchase for public purposes
The committee discussed a potential property purchase behind closed doors under the exception for real estate transactions. No details or decision were made public.
Deer management study
The Operations Committee discussed possible deer management within city limits, looking at Worthington's three-year roadmap as a model. No action yet, but a budget line item could come next year.
New Tree Board appointments
Powell's new Tree Board got its first four members, replacing the old parks and rec structure as part of the city's Tree City USA obligations. Two citizen seats remain open and applications are still being taken.