AKRON, Ohio – The Akron City Council convened on January 12, 2026, to address a robust agenda featuring significant infrastructure improvements, new business conditional uses, and internal modernization efforts. Following the approval of minutes from the January 5 meeting, where all 13 members were present, the council moved through a series of ordinances aimed at enhancing city services and supporting local economic growth.
Infrastructure and Public Service Enhancements
A primary focus of the meeting involved critical infrastructure and public service contracts. Council ratified an emergency purchase of Jacobi Carbon CB1 Product from Jacobi Carbons Inc. to ensure continued service reliability. Additionally, the Director of Public Service was authorized to enter into agreements with the County of Summit regarding the High Level Bridge replacement project, a vital link in the city’s transportation network.
The council also looked toward the future of city maintenance, authorizing the 2026 Resurfacing Program. This initiative includes the purchase and application of asphaltic concrete and various pavement maintenance techniques for streets across the city. To modernize internal operations, the Mayor was authorized to contract with Woolpert, Inc. for the implementation of new Cityworks processes, aimed at streamlining business procedures.
Economic Development and Zoning
Several high-profile business developments were discussed, particularly in the emerging marijuana industry. Council reviewed conditional use requests for dual-use marijuana dispensaries at 1960 W. Market Street (petitioned by Tango Ventures LLC) and 1140 W. Portage Trail (petitioned by OPC Cultivation, LLC).
Other notable economic items included:
- The approval of the Archwood Redevelopment Plan.
- An agreement with Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs, LLC to support their relocation to Akron.
- A lease extension for the Stow BMX Association, Inc. at the Akron/Fulton Airport.
- A conditional use request to rebuild a Taco Bell restaurant at 414 E. Exchange Street.
Public Safety and Community Support
In the realm of public safety, the council continued to hold time on an ordinance for the purchase of a mobile command vehicle from Farber Specialty Vehicles. Meanwhile, community development efforts were bolstered by an agreement with the Summit County Land Development Corporation (Summit County Land Bank) to develop a residential housing toolkit, supporting the city’s 2025 Consolidated Plan for Housing and Community Development.
During the public comment portion of the meeting, residents shared their perspectives on various local issues. While the council listened to these community voices, no immediate legislative action was taken on the specific concerns raised during the open comment period.