NORTH CANTON – The North Canton City Council approved several grant applications and elected new leadership during their August 18 meeting at the Civic Center.
The council unanimously elected Stephanie Werren as the new council president and David Metheney as vice president. Werren becomes the first female president in the city’s history.
Major Grant Applications Approved
Council members approved three significant grant applications that could bring substantial funding to the city:
Price Park Improvements: The council authorized Mayor Matthew Stroia to accept a $300,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for accessibility improvements at Price Park. The project will include a new fishing gazebo, adaptive fishing features, new benches and landscaping improvements.
West Maple Street Reconstruction: Members approved applying for Ohio Public Works Commission funding for a $1.2 million reconstruction project on West Maple Street from Lindy Lane to Wise Avenue. The project would include full reconstruction with new aggregate base and three layers of asphalt. The city is partnering with Jackson Township, which will contribute funding for repaving their portion of West Maple between Wise and Whipple avenues.
9th Street Water Line Replacement: The council authorized applying for OPWC grant funding for water line replacement on 9th Street Northeast, which officials described as the worst street in the city. The project will also include street reconstruction.
Financial Appropriations
The council approved $15.3 million in supplemental appropriations, with the majority – $15.2 million – designated for fire station construction funded through recently sold bonds. Finance Director Jina Alaback reported the bonds sold successfully with strong investor interest.
Other appropriations included $28,000 for a Walsh Tech education grant that provided Excel training for 14 city employees, and $2,550 for compensated absences for terminated employees.
Administrative Changes
Mayor Stroia announced the promotion of Jason Scaglione to deputy director of administration, replacing Ben Young who moved to the City of Shaker Heights. Scaglione brings nearly three decades of public service experience, including previous roles with the City of Akron and Stark County.
Council Vacancy Remains Unfilled
Despite receiving eight applications for the at-large council seat vacated when Stroia became mayor, the council chose not to make an appointment. Under city procedures, if council doesn’t fill the position within 30 days, the appointment authority shifts to the mayor.
Resident Concerns
During public comment, resident Brad Davis raised concerns about the city’s permit fee structure, specifically questioning variable fees based on square footage for plumbing permits. Davis argued the current system may burden businesses and deter development.
Long-time resident Pat Patterson announced the next community walk will be held October 19 at either West Park or Doug Weers Park.
Recognition and Updates
The finance department received recognition for earning the Government Finance Officers Association budget award for the second consecutive year. Only 22 Ohio entities received the prestigious award in 2024.
Director of Finance Alaback also reported that Standard & Poor’s revised the city’s bond rating outlook from stable to positive, while maintaining the AA-minus rating. The upgrade was attributed to voter approval of the income tax increase, reserve growth, and improved policies and practices.
The Main Street Festival was highlighted as a major success, with officials noting record attendance and vendor participation.
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