Hamilton · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hamilton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Ray Avenue storm sewer repair
A 1904-era storm sewer was found failing; council waived the bidding process to let the crew already working nearby fix it, saving about $25,000 and avoiding closing the road twice.
Conditional use — auto collision repair at 1820 Fair Grove Avenue
A vacant 1.8-acre corner lot would become an auto collision repair shop, with a variance to park awaiting-repair vehicles in the side yard behind a privacy fence since the lot has no rear yard.
17 Strong Advisory Board codification (Chapter 156)
Council heard a proposal to formally codify the 17 Strong neighborhood program, which issued about $55,000 in grants last year, into the city ordinances.
Hamilton schools improve to 3.5 state rating
Councilmember Lauer celebrated the district's jump to a 3.5 overall state rating, with every school scoring above 3 despite last year's cuts and building closures.
TvHamilton agreement renewal
The updated three-party agreement for TV Hamilton raises the city's contribution from $40,000 to $50,000 and updates insurance terms after the station's move.
577 Main Street historic designation
After a public hearing with no speakers, council gave a first reading to an ordinance denying the owner's request to remove the local historic designation from 577 Main Street.
Fairfield Township sewer connections
Four Fairfield Township properties can now hook into Hamilton's sewer system — and the landowners are paying their own way.
Commission training on conflicts of interest
Board members are lining up joint training with the BZA and ADRB, the first in two years. Commissioner Horsley wants a deep dive on conflict-of-interest gray areas.
Right-of-way dedication at North F Street & Liberty Avenue
The city petitioned to dedicate right-of-way at this intersection to support the public street network; the commission forwarded it for approval.
Walmart/Wing drone delivery at 1505 Main Street
Council reviewed the conditional use and variances for a drone delivery 'nest' in the Walmart parking lot — the first in the Cincinnati area — with FAA approvals in hand and a condition that outstanding remodel inspections be closed before permits issue.
Medicaid Administrative Claiming program renewal
The health department will keep participating in the MAC program, which brings federal reimbursement for helping low-income residents enroll in and access Medicaid.
Greenup Hydro emergency repair
A failed Kaplan tube forced a $175,397.65 emergency repair on Greenup Hydro unit 2; the custom-fabricated tubes were made in Wyoming and the unit is back online. Council waived the normal advertising requirement.
Riverside Natural Area improvements grant
Council is applying for an ODNR NatureWorks grant to fund improvements at Riverside Natural Area.