Akron Council's Weekly Legislative Spotlight! 2025 Issue #26

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From the Desk of the Council President

Hello Joan,

Welcome to This Week’s Edition of the Council’s Legislative Spotlight!

To our new subscribers—welcome! We’re thrilled to have you join our growing community of engaged Akronites. And to our loyal readers—thank you for your continued support and your commitment to staying informed about how local government shapes our everyday lives.

As the school year has ended and summer is in full swing, Akron is alive with energy, reflection, and celebration. .

For 200 years, Akron has been defined by innovation, resilience, and community spirit—and being recognized as an All-American City reaffirms what so many of us already know: that Akron is a city built by and for its people, and one that continues to rise to meet the challenges and opportunities of our time.

Recent developments—both nationally and here in Ohio—continue to impact Akronites in real and lasting ways. From federal budget decisions will affect community grants and healthcare, to Ohio’s infrastructure and small business policy shifts, these issues touch everything from housing to transit to everyday affordability.

Here in Akron, these broader policies connect directly to our local priorities. Infrastructure conversations mirror our own revitalization efforts, including transit upgrades and neighborhood improvements. Statewide debates on housing and economic opportunity echo Akron’s push to create inclusive, accessible spaces where every resident can thrive.

Each edition of the Legislative Spotlight will highlight the issues that impact us locally. Here’s what you can expect every week:

Legislative Updates: A breakdown of what your City Council covered during Monday’s meeting—key decisions, discussions, and what they mean for you.

Terminology Explained: We simplify complex terms so you always know what’s really being said.

Council Facts: Learn how Council works, who represents you, and how you can make your voice heard.

Community Events: From Bicentennial happenings to neighborhood gatherings and July 4th festivities, we spotlight ways to connect, contribute, and celebrate Akron.

As we honor Akron’s rich past, we remain focused on building a transparent, informed, and empowered future. When we understand the decisions being made—and the language they’re made in—we’re all better equipped to shape the community we want to live in.

Share the Spotlight! Invite your friends, family, and neighbors to subscribe. An informed Akron is a stronger Akron—and it starts with each of us.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s make this summer a season of celebration, connection, and civic pride—together.

Sincerely,

Margo Sommerville

Council President

Ward 3 Council Member

Legislative Highlights From Monday, July 21, 2025

Ordinance No. 243-2025 approving the City of Akron 2025-2029 Consolidated Strategy and 2025 Annual Action Plan including applications and certifications for the Community Development Block Grant (“Community Development”), the HOME Investment Partnership (“HOME”) and Emergency Solutions Grant (“ESG”) Programs; authorizing the Director of Planning and Urban Development to enter into all necessary contracts for the operation and term of the Programs; and declaring an emergency. Vote: Ayes: 12, Nays: 0 (Hannah absent). Council held an open comment public hearing on this legislation July 14th. You can view the Executive Summary here.

Ordinance No. 244-2025 amending Title 3 “Administration,” Chapter 30 “Mayor and Council,” Article 1 “Generally” of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Akron to add Section 30.04 “Official Insignia;” and declaring an emergency. Vote: Ayes: 12, Nays: 0 (Hannah absent). No person or entity shall use Administrative Insignia or the Corporate Seal except in the manner prescribed by the Mayor or his designee and no person or entity shall use the Council Insigne, except as duly authorized by the body of Akron City Council.

Ordinance No. 253-2025 authorizing the Mayor or his designee to enter into a contract or contracts with Akron Community Service Center and Urban League, dba Akron Urban League, to provide support for the Akron Urban League Entrepreneur Empowerment Center (EEC) for small-business assistance programming; and declaring an emergency. Vote: Ayes: 12, Nays: 0 (Hannah absent). Providing small-business support for the Akron Urban League Entrepreneur Empowerment Center will promote the community vitality, commercial resiliency, and empower local entrepreneurs to serve consumers' needs while stimulating economic growth and vibrancy.

Council leadership requested a review of the Capital Budget. You can view that presentation here. Council must pass the Capital Budget each year prior to February 15th. The 2025 Capital Budget was approved by Council on February 10, 2025. You can view the current and previous Capital Budget documents here.

Remember...

You can see all the legislation discussed during the meeting at: https://onlinedocs.akronohio.gov/OnBaseAgendaOnline/

Check out the calendar on

Council's website for

upcoming Ward Meetings!

Your Council Representative

Is Available to Serve You!

There are several ways to reach your Ward Representative:

View their information on the Council's website .
Attend their ward meeting .
Call or email them.

Upcoming Open Comment

Public Hearings

Monday, July 28th

5:00 p.m. Special Meeting

Ordinance authorizing a Conditional Use to construct a dual-use marijuana dispensary at 1956 W. Market Street.

Notices are posted on our website at least 15 days before the meeting.

Suppose the Ordinance is a Conditional Use (Zoning measure). In that case, a notice is also mailed to the owners and residents of property within, contiguous to, and directly across the street from the property involved in the Ordinance (per Charter Section 34). Notices are also published in the Akron Beacon Journal.

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