The Stow City Council met last Thursday evening with a packed agenda that included a comprehensive zoning code update, approval for a new Huntington Bank, and recognition of an award-winning teacher.
Major Zoning Code Revisions Presented
Planning Director Cowen outlined extensive revisions to the city’s zoning code aimed at modernizing regulations and reducing non-conformities. The most significant change involves consolidating eight commercial districts down to three: C1, C2, and C3.
“About 60% of our residential lots are currently non-conforming in lot area or width,” Cowen explained while presenting the steering committee’s recommendations to decrease minimum lot sizes across residential districts.
The proposed changes would maintain existing R1, R2, and R3 residential districts, while commercial areas would see substantial restructuring:
- C1: Essentially a renamed RV district allowing more retail, restaurants, and mixed-use
- C2: Supporting retail and restaurants with pedestrian-friendly design
- C3: Regional commercial along Route 8 and at Kent Road/Fish Creek
A new Public Institutional (PI) district would be created for schools and government buildings, addressing issues with the current classification of these properties as residential.
Several council members expressed concerns about a proposed mixed-use overlay district for Route 91 between Graham and Kent Road. Councilman Kyle Herman framed the area as “downtown Stow,” while Councilman Jeremy McIntyre cautioned about potential resident opposition, referencing historical resistance to similar proposals.
“When we proposed downtown changes previously, this chamber was packed,” McIntyre noted, recalling earlier attempts to modify the area.
New Huntington Bank Approved Despite Questions
Council approved Resolution 2025-096 allowing a lot split and site plan for a new 3,600-square-foot Huntington Bank building on Kent Road. The plan includes four drive-through lanes and required seven variances involving lot dimensions, setbacks, and other technical requirements.
Council members expressed frustration that no Huntington Bank representative attended the meeting to answer questions, particularly about whether existing Stow branches would remain open. The applicant’s representative, Lauren Marshall from Allegro Civil Engineers, was unable to provide this information.
“I get a little frustrated when we’re taking action but it’s not important enough for somebody to show up,” remarked Council President Cyle Feldman, before the resolution ultimately passed.
Ohio Teacher of the Year Honored
Mayor Jani presented a proclamation to Stow resident Danielle Pickney, recognizing her as the 2025 Ohio Teacher of the Year. Pickney, an English teacher at Twinsburg High School, was honored for her dedication to education, including creating a senior-level course on African-American literature.
“You’ve gone above and beyond in and out of the classroom,” said Mayor Jani during the presentation. “We are proud to have you in our community.”
Pickney expressed gratitude for the recognition. “I am absolutely proud to be a resident of Stow,” she said.
Charter Review Progress
Charter Review Commission member Rick Charles provided an update on the commission’s work reviewing the city charter. The group has examined 15 of 22 articles thus far and has submitted five proposed changes to council.
“We believe that these proposals are changes that will enhance our local government,” Charles stated, noting that the commission held a town hall meeting on April 2 to gather public input, with another planned before completing their work.
Budget Items and Infrastructure Plans
Council approved several major purchases and projects, including:
- A new 26-passenger Freightliner community bus through a lease-purchase arrangement over five years
- Design services for Young Road sidewalk improvements between Norton Road and the Sierra Vista neighborhood
- Network infrastructure upgrades for City Hall
- Ten replacement mobile radios for police cruisers
- Branding and promotional services for the new Stow amphitheater project
Public Concerns
During public comment, 96-year-old resident Donald Sterns addressed council regarding his exclusion from the senior center, stating he had been banned for two months without explanation. Council President Feldman offered to meet with Sterns privately to discuss the situation.
The next regular council meeting is scheduled for April 24, 2025.
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