Stow Council Greenlights New Infrastructure, Public Safety Upgrades, and Community Projects in Packed November 6 Meeting

At their November 6, 2025 meeting, the Stow City Council took decisive action on a long list of items, ranging from technology upgrades and infrastructure improvements to public safety funding and zoning changes. It was a pivotal evening that has laid much of the groundwork for Stow’s operations in 2026.

Here’s a breakdown of the highlights and what they mean for residents.

Major Connectivity Upgrade: Cell Tower Approved

A key approval came in the form of a new 173-foot cell tower near North River Road, which will serve AT&T, T-Mobile, and Dish customers. The monopole design tower replaces an older structure that was removed after a lease expiration and will sit on land near the Summit County wastewater treatment facility.

Councilmembers emphasized the importance of improved cellular coverage, and residents living nearby actually supported the project—welcoming better service in their area.

Learn more about the project and its positive community response in this article:

Big Connectivity Boost Coming to Stow, Ohio: New Cell Tower Approved on North River Road

Zoning Decisions: A Mixed Bag

The Council approved a zoning amendment to reclassify property on Marsh Road from residential to general business use, clearing the way for future development along a major corridor. However, another zoning proposal was turned down after concerns were raised that the proposed changes were more expansive than needed. Councilmembers warned against changing zoning without a clear and specific purpose.

Public Safety Investments

Both the police and fire departments received funding boosts to keep their teams well-equipped and prepared:

– The fire department was granted additional spending authority for gear and maintenance after an unexpected increase in expenses.

– The police department received federal funding through the Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) to purchase five new portable radios. Council specifically praised the department’s grant-writing team for continuing to bring in outside funding to offset local costs.

Additionally, Council approved the hiring of new officers and firefighters to fill upcoming retirements and ensure adequate staffing into 2026. One police hire comes as a replacement after an officer returned to another department, while five firefighter hires will offset both planned and recent retirements.

Smart City Solutions: GIS and Equipment Contracts

To keep pace with technology, the City approved a contract for mapping services with Mapped Out GIS, an external provider supporting Stow’s growing need for up-to-date geographic data. The move complements the City’s ongoing efforts to integrate data tools for smarter planning and coordination.

Public Works also received approval to increase spending for salt augers—critical equipment for snowplows—as Stow prepares for winter.

Road Projects and Grant Applications

Maintenance and mobility were also a focus. The City applied for several grants through the Akron Metropolitan Area Transportation Study (AMATS) to help fund:

– Resurfacing of Fishcreek Road (Phase 2)

– Shared-use paths and sidewalk improvements on Graham Road

– A road widening project to alleviate congestion between State Route 91 and Liberty Road

– A joint project with Hudson to reconstruct a section of Norton Road

– A pedestrian- and signal-improvement project for Fishcreek and Stow Roads

These applications reflect a growing focus on safer streets, better connectivity, and proactive infrastructure spending.

Flood Relief Coming to Homewood Avenue

In a big win for homeowners affected by repeat flooding, the Council approved the City’s purchase of a small parcel on Homewood Avenue. The land will be used to build a stormwater management facility and fix aging pipes, answering long-standing complaints about drainage and road flooding.

Water Rate Hike Rejected

While many capital improvements moved forward, one did not: Council voted down a proposed water rate increase after concerns were raised about the burden on residents—especially those on fixed incomes. The proposal would have significantly raised both base rates and infrastructure fees. Several councilmembers emphasized the need for future discussions around affordability and potential funding alternatives.

Council Operations and Cybersecurity

Looking inward, Council approved the 2026 meeting calendar and adopted a citywide cybersecurity policy in line with new state requirements. The policy includes annual training, data protection, and procedures for responding to ransomware incidents.

Supporting the Community: Holiday Drives and Veteran Appreciation

Councilman Jeremy McIntyre delivered a heartfelt Veterans Day speech, connecting the symbolism of voting with the service and sacrifice of military veterans. Mayor John Pribonic later reminded residents to support the City’s holiday campaigns, Stuff the Ambulance (November) and Stuff the Sleigh (December), which collect food, gifts, and essentials for families in need.

The Mayor noted the growing participation from local businesses and emphasized that donations from the community have already exceeded expectations. Collection sites are stationed around the city and rotate through key pick-up weekends.

Looking Forward

As the year winds down, Stow is clearly leaning into smart planning, community upgrades, and public safety. Several infrastructure contracts are in motion, public service workers are being supported and replaced ahead of retirement waves, and grant-seeking efforts are poised to pay off in 2026.

City officials say a commitment to transparency and long-term investment will help Stow grow responsibly—without compromising on services that residents depend on.