Tallmadge Council Approves Economic Development Contract, Addresses Traffic Safety Concerns

TALLMADGE – City Council unanimously approved a $24,000 contract with Insight Advisory Group for economic development consulting services during its July 24 meeting, while multiple residents voiced serious concerns about traffic safety on local roads.

The 7-0 vote came after extensive discussion about the partnership between the consulting firm and Economic Developer Samantha Pool. Sean Joyce, representing Insight Advisory Group, presented data showing the firm’s work has resulted in retaining 60 jobs and creating 235 new positions, generating $17.5 million in new payroll and nearly $400,000 in local tax revenue.

Council President Jonathon Bollas praised the detailed financial breakdown provided by the firm. “This is some of the information we’ve all been craving in this relationship,” Bollas said.

Mayor Carol Siciliano-Kilway defended the partnership as fulfilling a campaign promise to build a comprehensive economic development team. The contract runs through the end of 2025.

GOVERNMENT

Public Safety Recognition Council recognized Officer Aaron Fersick for graduating from the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission on July 18 with honors for attendance and leadership. Fire Marshal Quick completed specialized fire investigation training at the National Fire Academy in Maryland, and the city welcomed new firefighter paramedic Zachary Heffley.

Police Chief Douglas T. Bohon’s department received provisional certification for the 14th standard of the Ohio Law Enforcement Collaborative, maintaining status as a certified law enforcement agency.

Budget Approvals Council approved five ordinances on first reading, including:

• $31,400 for additional demolition costs at 111 West Avenue due to hazardous materials discovery
• Road salt purchase authorization
• Grant applications for cemetery vault restoration totaling up to $22,500
• East Avenue corridor improvement funding application

The 2026 budget workshop was scheduled for November 5 at 6 p.m.

Federal Funding Discussion revealed the city submitted a tunnel project connecting downtown to the circle area for federal community project funding through Congresswoman Emilia Sykes. The project advanced through initial phases, though approval remains uncertain. Other considered projects included Howl Road improvements and West Avenue paving.

PUBLIC SAFETY

Trail Crossing Incident A mother reported a near-miss incident involving her children at the Metro Park trail crossing on Howl Road. Stephanie Schmidt described how a driver in a fourth lane nearly struck her stroller-bound children when traffic signals were flashing, crediting another driver’s warning honk with preventing tragedy.

Mayor Siciliano-Kilway outlined plans for a “road diet” on Howl Road, reducing it from four lanes to three with a center turning lane and pedestrian island at the crossing. The project awaits county completion of preliminary work.

Speeding Complaints Multiple residents addressed ongoing speeding concerns on residential streets. Julia Lewis renewed calls for increased police presence on Nottingham Street, emphasizing that engineering solutions require enforcement support.

Council discussed purchasing removable speed tables for problem areas, though Mayor Siciliano-Kilway cautioned that proper engineering studies are essential to avoid creating safety hazards.

COMMUNITY

Swimming Program Recognition Council presented a certificate of appreciation to Nate May, president of the Tallmadge Marlins swim team for 15 years. Under his leadership, the volunteer-run program has grown to 140 swimmers and won 11 league championships since MAC pool reopened in 2009.

The program will offer bonus weekend hours August 16-17 for members only, marking the first time adequate staffing allowed the additional service.

Cemetery Improvements Assistant Director of Public Service Hela Hussing presented photos showing deterioration of the 1881 cemetery receiving vault, including damaged ceiling and foundation issues requiring restoration through the proposed grant funding.

Business Development The Crafty Steer held its grand opening on North Avenue with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Council waived the hearing requirement for East Avenue Gyros’ liquor permit application for beer and wine service.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Circle Fest: August 9, 5-11 p.m.
• MAC pool bonus weekend: August 16-17, noon-7 p.m. (members only)
• Next council meeting: August 14
• Budget workshop: November 5, 6 p.m.