Twinsburg City Council began its August 26 meeting with a moment of silence for Donald Spice, a 93-year-old architect who significantly shaped the community over five decades. Council then moved through several emergency measures addressing municipal operations and infrastructure needs.
The meeting honored Spice’s extensive contributions to Twinsburg, including his role in designing both the old and new libraries, multiple schools, and the current fire station during his 55-year career. Spice also served over 25 years on the library board and was active at Ss. Cosmas and Damian Catholic Church.
Legislative Actions
Council approved multiple emergency ordinances to expedite municipal business. The emergency measures included authorizing delinquent sewer and water charges to be placed on county tax records, purchasing fire department alerting equipment from Bryx Inc., and approving appropriation amendments for various city accounts.
A significant $2.075 million bond measure passed for Twinsburg Fitness Center improvements, specifically targeting roof reconstruction and HVAC system upgrades for the indoor swimming pool area.
Council also approved purchasing a bucket truck for the service department and authorized the mayor to enter into professional services contracts for streetscape design guidelines with Environmental Design Group.
Planning and Development
Scott Barr reported on recent Planning Commission activities, including approval of a data center project in the Innovation and Manufacturing zone. The commission determined data centers qualify as similar use to warehouses but with higher power consumption and fewer employees. Twinsburg’s location between Akron and Cleveland makes it attractive for such facilities.
Council addressed multiple zoning code amendments, including text changes for stormwater discharge permits, cemetery definitions, downtown district language, and local landmark listings. New restrictions prevent front-loading garages from extending beyond front building walls to avoid garage-dominated home designs.
Committee Updates and Community Events
Karen Labbe highlighted the Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee’s first Family Diversity Day on July 22, featuring activities and an African drummer whose storytelling focused on diversity and encouragement. The event moved indoors due to weather but remained successful.
Multiple council members participated in the 50th anniversary Twins Days Festival, noting record attendance and international visitors from Amsterdam and Japan. Bill Furey promoted an upcoming Red Cross blood drive at the Hilton Garden Inn.
Chuck Bonacci reported on downtown improvement efforts through the Community Improvement Corporation, working with Economic Development Director Rebecca Ziegler to enhance building appearances around the square through architectural renderings and property owner meetings.
Mayor’s Report
Mayor Sam Scaffide discussed summer Rock the Park concerts, praising the improved amphitheater facilities including new bathrooms and playgrounds. The city introduced a new tradition of providing popsicles to summer camp participants during their pool day.
Scaffide highlighted Pepperl+Fuchs, a sensor technology company that recently relocated its North American headquarters to a new 25,000-square-foot facility on Darrow Road. The German-based company, which pioneered proximity sensors 50 years ago, now houses approximately 120 employees in a state-of-the-art, environmentally sustainable building designed for LEED Gold certification.
Executive Session and Liquor Permit
Council approved a motion not to oppose a new D-3 liquor permit for Quintessential Cigar Lounge LLC on Darrow Road. The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss property sales and legal matters.
The next regular council meeting is scheduled for September, with various committee meetings planned throughout the month.
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