Northfield Village Council Passes Tax Budget, Seeks Ward B Applicants

NORTHFIELD VILLAGE – The Northfield Village Council unanimously approved its 2026 tax budget and passed new anti-camping legislation during its May 28 meeting, while also announcing multiple board and commission openings.

Council members passed Resolution 2025-32, adopting the village’s tax budget for fiscal year beginning January 1, 2026. Finance Director Jennifer Potvin said the budget must be submitted to Summit County by July 15.

The council also approved Ordinance 2025-33, establishing Section 642.15 of the village criminal code that prohibits camping on public property. The ordinance makes it unlawful to camp on municipal property including streets, sidewalks, parks and public grounds without mayoral permission. Violations are classified as fourth-degree misdemeanors, escalating to first-degree misdemeanors for repeat offenders within 365 days.

Historical Society Reports Growth

Ellen Bertel from the Historical Society of Old Northfield told council the organization has experienced significant growth, with monthly meetings expanding from 5-6 people to 18-22 attendees. The society has replaced five windows at the Palmer House and installed a new flagpole using community donations.

Their Facebook page documenting the former Akron Bedford Cleveland Railroad received over 5,000 hits for one post. The society’s next open house is scheduled for the third Sunday in June from 1-4 p.m.

Bertel requested any remaining budget funds to continue Palmer House improvements, noting nine windows and entry doors still need replacement.

Department Updates

Fire Department officials announced firefighter Christopher Molnar has begun full-time duties. The department’s Touch a Truck event is set for June 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring an obstacle course, safety demonstrations, police K-9 units, and a helicopter landing scheduled between 1-1:15 p.m.

Service Superintendent Jason Walters reported ongoing challenges with dumpster management due to heavy rainfall but said the new police station construction remains on track. Occupancy is expected by mid-June pending final concrete work and sidewalk repairs.

Multiple Positions Available

The village is accepting applications until June 19 for several openings:

Ward B Council Seat (term expires Dec. 31): Requires one year of continuous village residency and voter registration. Members cannot hold other public office in Ohio or village employment. Position pays $400 monthly plus $100 expense stipend. Meetings are second and fourth Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. Apply to Finance Director Jennifer Potvin at finance@northfieldvillage-oh.gov.

Planning Commission (term expires Dec. 31, 2028): Professional architectural, building, planning or zoning experience preferred but not required. Meetings are third Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. when needed.

Recreation Board (unpaid volunteer positions): Members meet first Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. when needed.

Planning Commission and Recreation Board applications should be sent to Mayor Jennifer Domzalski at mayor@northfieldvillage-oh.gov.

Summer Schedule

Council voted to cancel first meetings in June, July and August for summer recess. The next meeting is Wednesday, June 4 at 6 p.m.