Aurora Council OKs Fire Engine Fix, K9 Sale and Overturns Roof Denial

Aurora City Council convened for its Committee of the Whole and regular session on August 17, addressing a wide range of issues from infrastructure repairs to community appointments. Council President George Horvat presided over the meeting, which included updates on city finances, employee promotions, and a contentious decision to overturn a roof permit denial. Council members Brad Duguay, Dennis Kovach, Reva Barner, Sarah Grdina Gilmore, John Seitz, John Kudley Jr., Ralph Ware and Scott Wolf were all present for the packed agenda. Finance Director Reports Strong Revenue and Clean Audit Finance Director Tim Clymer opened the meeting with encouraging news about the city's financial standing. Revenue is running 15 percent ahead of schedule for the year, while expenses remain 4 percent below pace. The city also passed its 2025 audit with a clean opinion from the Ohio Auditor of State, marking a shift from previous years when an independent firm conducted the review. Clymer noted that state auditors typically conduct more thorough examinations and flagged minor issues, such as the need for improved air conditioning in a server room, but no significant problems were found. Employee Promotions and Community Donations Approved Council confirmed a slate of employee promotions, including moves within the Parks and Recreation Department and new roles in city operations. The consent calendar also approved the donation of youth soccer goals, which will be distributed to local programs. Mayor Womer Benjamin’s report highlighted ongoing summer events, trail expansions and progress on Aurora Park construction, including irrigation work and the erection of trusses for a new restroom and office building. Fire Engine Repair and Water Bill Assessments A contentious discussion centered on approving a $120,000 repair for a city fire engine through F&S Automotive. Council members debated the cost but ultimately voted to proceed, citing the importance of maintaining emergency vehicle readiness. Separately, the council approved assessments for unpaid water and sewer bills, with collections set to begin in October. The measures aim to address outstanding balances from residents and businesses. Roof Permit Reversal and K9 Sale In a notable decision, council unanimously reversed a board’s denial of a metal roof permit for a residential home, citing the roof’s compatibility with the house’s style and concerns about outdated ordinances. Law Director Dean DePiero announced efforts to draft updated guidelines with stronger penalties for unapproved construction. Council also authorized the sale of K9 Ory, a police dog, to a neighboring department, with proceeds to fund future canine training programs. Mayor’s Report and Community Updates The mayor’s report emphasized continued summer activities, including the Aurora Trail Challenge and National Night Out events, which saw the distribution of over 1,100 hamburgers and hot dogs. Council President Horvat praised police efforts at National Night Out and announced the formation of a committee to review the Clerk of Council’s performance. The session also included remarks from state House candidate Vik Sandhu, who highlighted his experience in township fiscal management. Legacy and Local Concerns The meeting closed with a tribute to Bob Lukay, a former council member and educator, who was inducted into Aurora’s Educator and Staff Hall of Fame in 2013. Council member Reva Barner raised concerns about the condition of the CVS plaza parking lot, urging the developer to address issues despite the city’s lack of direct oversight. Council also entered executive session to discuss potential property acquisitions, though no public action was announced.