Delaware · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Delaware public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Price Farms II annexation services
Council formally brought nearly 285 acres into the city across two annexations. This sets the stage for future development and city services on those properties.
City Manager Leadership Transition
Council decided not to renew City Manager Paul Brake's contract, meaning the city will need new leadership at the top. Members emphasized the decision came after extensive private deliberation and praised Brake's service. The current contract runs through the end of its term, so a transition is ahead rather than immediate.
City Manager transition
City Manager Paul Brake is stepping away from active duties after Oct. 9 under a mutual exit agreement, keeping pay and benefits through year-end while staying reachable for transition questions. Assistant City Manager Andy Beare runs the city in the meantime.
Shift of high-risk tree work to contractors
Commissioners wrestled with requiring street trees in places where the city's two-person forestry staff would have to make special trips to maintain them. With 23,000 street trees already, every added tree is a long-term cost — and storm damage removals can run $4,500 per tree.
Flock surveillance cameras
The city's 20-year-old camera system is end-of-life and can't retain footage. IT wants to grow from ~70 to ~110 cameras with 30-day retention, saving about $300,000 by having city crews do the installation.
Business Approval
Delaware just approved its very first Chick-fil-A, bringing new fast-food options to town. Expect some fresh dining choices, but also brace yourself for heavier traffic in the area.
Grady Memorial maternity unit closure
Council members highlighted last meeting's resolution urging OhioHealth to reconsider closing the Grady Memorial maternity unit, saying the conversation continues and residents should 'put people before profit.'
Legislation
Delaware just passed a new law to stop a local facility from shutting down, meaning community services are safe for now. It's a quick fix that keeps essential programs running right in your backyard.
Healthcare Services
Local officials in Delaware are fighting OhioHealth's plan to shut down the town's only maternity ward, which would force expectant parents to travel much further for childbirth services. This closure leaves families scrambling for local care options and raises serious safety concerns.
Ethics and Misconduct
A Delaware city councilman is facing criminal charges for harassment and menacing, causing a huge distraction for local government and raising questions about whether he should keep his seat. It's a messy situation that shakes up confidence in our elected officials.
Personnel Resignation
Delaware's city attorney just quit over claims of workplace bullying, creating a leadership vacuum right at the top. This sudden shakeup is bound to disrupt ongoing legal cases and everyday city operations.
Judicial Appointment
A local prosecutor just got promoted to municipal judge, which means the court handling your traffic tickets and local disputes is getting a new face in charge. This shift could change how local cases are handled and prosecuted moving forward.
Noise Ordinance
Delaware just updated its noise rules, meaning your next backyard party or late-night hangout could easily result in a fine if you're not careful. It's a good idea to brush up on the new limits before hosting any outdoor get-togethers.
Administrative Appointment
Delaware just hired a brand-new city manager to run daily operations. This person's decisions will directly impact the local services and policies you deal with every single day.
Flag Policy
Delaware decided against flying Pride flags after a Supreme Court ruling, kicking off a heated local debate about public inclusivity and free speech. It's a classic clash over what symbols city property should actually feature.
Ethics Investigation
A Delaware city councilman is currently facing an ethics investigation after allegedly sending threatening messages to a local business. This kind of behavior from an elected official raises serious questions about abuse of power and integrity in local government.
City Attorney Appointment
Delaware has a brand new city attorney who was promoted straight from the city prosecutor job. This leadership swap could totally change how local laws get enforced and how the city handles its legal business.
Legal Settlement
The City of Delaware is shelling out $6.5 million to settle a lawsuit with the estate of Jim Stillwagon. This massive payout is bound to leave a mark on city finances and could mean tighter budgets for local taxpayers.