On the agenda: North Canton meeting — Data Center (Aug 24)

City of North Canton
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
Notice is hereby given that:
The City Council of the City of North Canton shall hold a Regular Council Meeting on Monday,
August 24, 2026 at 7:00 PM at Council Chambers, North Canton Civic Center 845 W Maple St. North
Canton, OH.
See attached agenda for matters to be discussed.
Meetings are open to the public or may be livestreamed on the City of North Canton’s YouTube page.
BY THE ORDER OF THE CITY OF NORTH CANTON, COUNTY OF STARK, STATE OF OHIO:

08.21.2026
________________________
Date

Regular Council Meeting Agenda

Liam K. Ott
________________________
Clerk

August 24, 2026

1

NORTH CANTON REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 24, 2026, 7:00 PM
Agenda
1.

Call to Order

2.

Opening Prayer

3.

Pledge of Allegiance

4.

Roll Call

5.

Consideration
5.a Minutes from July 6, 2026 - City Council

6.

Special Presentations
6.a Special Presentation from the UPLIFT North Canton Team on the organization's community
service efforts.

7.

Recognition of the Public (Legislation on the Agenda only)
Members of the public wishing to speak before Council at regular council meetings must sign up
to speak. Speakers may sign up the night of the meeting or may sign up in advance at
https://forms.office.com/r/jSPYnvddvG. Members of the public may only speak at one of the two
Recognition of the Public items.

8.

Old Business
8.a Ordinance 16-2026, 2nd Reading, Community and Economic Development Committee
An ordinance repealing Chapter 1139, Industrial District Regulations, and amending various
provisions of Chapter 1137, Business District Regulations, of the Codified Ordinances of the
City of North Canton, to update, modify, and clarify the regulations governing the City’s
business districts.
8.b Resolution 32-2026, 3rd Reading, Parks and Recreation Committee
A resolution in support of accepting the 2026 Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces (PROS)
Master Plan.
8.c Ordinance 39-2026, 2nd Reading, Parks and Recreation Committee
An ordinance establishing Chapter 149, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, of the
Codified Ordinances of the City of North Canton, thereby establishing the Parks and
Recreation Advisory Board for the City of North Canton.

9.

New Business
Upon a successful motion and 2nd to suspend Council Rule 23, Council may consider Resolution
41-2026 without a Committee report.
9.a Resolution 41-2026, 1st Reading, Parks and Recreation Committee

Regular Council Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026
2

A resolution authorizing the Mayor of the City of North Canton to provide the information
and documentation necessary to apply for funding assistance through the Muskingum
Watershed Conservancy District’s Connecting Communities Grant Program, and declaring
the same to be an emergency.
10. Recognition of the Public (Topics Under City Authority)
Members of the public wishing to speak before Council at regular council meetings must sign up
to speak. Speakers may sign up the night of the meeting or may sign up in advance at
https://forms.office.com/r/jSPYnvddvG. Members of the public may only speak at one of the two
Recognition of the Public items.
11. Department Reports
Directors of Administration
Mayor Stroia
12. Council Reports
Ward 1 - Jamie McCleaster
Ward 2 - David Metheney
Ward 3 - Christina Weyrick
Ward 4 - John Orr

Directors of Finance
Council Clerk
At Large - Holly Pierpont
At Large - Andrew Pratt
At Large - Jeff Stocker

13. Final Call for New Business
14. Executive Session
14.a Upon a successful motion and roll call vote Council may enter into an executive session for
the purpose of discussing the purchase or sale of property as permitted by ORC 121.22(G)(2).
14.b Upon a successful motion and roll call vote Council may enter into an executive session for
the purpose of discussion with an attorney for the public body concerning disputes involving
the public body that are the subject of pending court action as permitted by ORC 121.22(G)
(3).
15. Meetings Calendar
August 31, 2026 – Committee of the Whole
September 07, 2026 – No Meeting - Holiday
16. Adjourn

Regular Council Meeting Agenda

August 24, 2026
3

AGENDA ITEM NO. 6.a

Item Cover Page

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
DATE:

August 24, 2026

SUBMITTED BY:

Administration

ITEM TYPE:

Non-Legislation Council Items

AGENDA SECTION:

Special Presentations

SUBJECT:

Special Presentation from the UPLIFT North Canton Team on the
organization's community service efforts.

DESCRIPTION:
ATTACHMENTS:

4

AGENDA ITEM NO. 8.a

Item Cover Page

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
DATE:

August 24, 2026

SUBMITTED BY:

Administration

ITEM TYPE:

Ordinance

AGENDA SECTION:

Old Business

SUBJECT:

Ordinance 16-2026, 2nd Reading, Community and Economic
Development Committee
An ordinance repealing Chapter 1139, Industrial District Regulations,
and amending various provisions of Chapter 1137, Business District
Regulations, of the Codified Ordinances of the City of North Canton,
to update, modify, and clarify the regulations governing the City’s
business districts.

DESCRIPTION:

The proposed legislation would update North Canton’s zoning
framework by repealing Chapter 1139, Industrial District
Regulations, and revising the Chapter 1137, Business District
Regulations, to better reflect current development needs. By
repealing Chapter 1139 and amending Chapter 1137, the City aims to
clarify, modernize, and improve the rules governing business
districts, specifically those outside the Main Street districts. The
changes are intended to remove outdated provisions, provide clearer
standards, and support positive economic development. By
consolidating and updating district regulations, the City aims to
create a more flexible and coherent regulatory structure that aligns
with recent growth and anticipated future development in North
Canton’s business districts.

ATTACHMENTS:
Ord. 16-2026 Amending Chapter 1137 and Repealing Chapter 1139.docx

5

North Canton City Council
Community and Economic Development Committee
ORDINANCE 16 - 2026
An ordinance repealing Chapter 1139, Industrial District Regulations, and amending
various provisions of Chapter 1137, Business District Regulations, of the Codified Ordinances of
the City of North Canton, to update, modify, and clarify the regulations governing the City’s
business districts.
WHEREAS, the City of North Canton wishes to amend various provisions of its business
district regulations in order to clarify such regulations and encourage positive economic
development in its non-main street business districts; and
WHEREAS, with recent growth and development, there is an evolving need to clarify
business district regulations and modify provisions that may be outdated or do not meet the present
and anticipated future needs of the City’s business districts; and
WHEREAS, the Office of City Council, on April 15, 2026, received a completed and
approved Application for Zoning Amendment for the above-described zoning change from the
Office of the Mayor; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a public meeting for the purpose of gaining
public input on the proposed zoning change on July 8, 2026, pursuant to Section 1182.04 of the
North Canton Codified Ordinances, and recommended that City Council approve as submitted;
and
WHEREAS, City Council held a public meeting for the purpose of gaining public input on
the proposed zoning change on August 17, 2026, pursuant to Section 1182.06 of the North Canton
Codified Ordinances.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORTH
CANTON, COUNTY OF STARK, AND STATE OF OHIO:
Section 1.

That Chapter 1139, Industrial District Regulations, of the Codified Ordinances of
the City of North Canton be, and is hereby, repealed.

Section 2.

That Chapter 1137, Business District Regulations, of the Codified Ordinances of
the City of North Canton be, and is hereby, amended and to read as set forth in
“Exhibit A” attached hereto and incorporated herein.

Section 3.

That the Clerk of Council and Mayor of the City of North Canton be, and are
hereby, authorized to make such amendments as may be needed to the Codified
Ordinances of the City of North Canton to accurately reflect this ordinance upon
approval of such amended pages by a voice vote of Council.

Section 4.

That if a provision of this ordinance is or becomes illegal, invalid, or unenforceable,
it shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this
ordinance.

Section 5.

That this ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after the earliest
period allowed by law.
Passed in Council this __________ day of ___________________, 2026.
Attest: _______________________________
Liam K. Ott, Clerk of Council

_____________________
Matthew Stroia, Mayor

Signed on: _____________________

6

Ordinance No. 16 - 2026
2 | Page

SECTION 1137.01

Exhibit A

INTENT

North Canton has four commercial and industrial districts that solely allow commercial
and industrial uses: General Business A (GB-A), General Business B (GB-B), Office Building
(OB), and Limited Industrial (LI). These districts are established to promote commercial and
industrial development in appropriate and convenient locations, that are sufficient areas for
business activities, but protect adjacent residential neighborhoods. These districts are intended to
respect existing surrounding development patterns while promoting desired future development.
(a) The following are the general characteristics of the Commercial and Industrial
Districts that these regulations advance:
(1) Office Building Districts (OB) to create an environment that is conducive
to well-located and designed office building sites to accommodate all types
of offices and limited business service activities.
(2) General Business Districts (GB-A) accommodate a variety of nonautomobile centric retail and service establishments in generally a shopping
center environment, and where only limited outdoor sales are permitted.
(3) General Business Districts (GB-B) accommodate uses beyond those
permitted in the GB-A District, and to thereby provide service and sales in
support of the primary business activities in the community.
(4) Limited Industrial Districts (LI) are for industrial establishments that can be
appropriately located in the center of the city in a manner that is compatible
with the surrounding character of the downtown and which normally
generate only limited outdoor activities accessory to and in association with
a principal activity conducted in enclosed buildings.
SECTION 1137.02

APPLICABILITY

(a) This Chapter contains the use regulations and development standards for
commercial and industrial uses in General Business A (GB-A), General Business B (GB-B), Office
Building (OB) and Limited Industrial (LI) districts. Except as otherwise set forth herein, the
provisions of this Chapter shall apply, govern, control, and supersede all other regulations of the
City of North Canton Zoning Code (“Zoning Code”).
(b) All terms not expressly defined herein shall have the meaning set forth in the
Zoning Code. All administrative procedures of the Zoning Code shall apply to this Chapter except
that any dimensional or area standard herein may be varied by an amount of up to twenty percent
(20%) upon a determination by the Director of Administration, or their designee, that the variance
would satisfy the variance standards set forth in the Zoning Ordinance.
SECTION 1137.03

GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATIONS

Graphics are used throughout this Chapter to illustrate the development standards. Graphics
are either illustrative or regulatory as indicated.
SECTION 1137.04

USE REGULATIONS

(a) Uses Permitted by Right. A use listed in Section 1137.05 shall be permitted by
right as a principal use for either the entire building/site or part thereof provided that all
requirements of other City ordinances and this Zoning Ordinance have been met according to the
following:
(1) When denoted with the letter “P” the use is permitted by right for the entire
building or site meaning such uses may be located within the entire
structure, inclusive of the first floor and all upper floors. Furthermore,
whole building uses may also be located solely on upper floors or streetlevel floors in addition to the whole building.
(b) Conditional Uses A use listed in Schedule 1137.03 shall be permitted as a
conditional use in a district when denoted by the letter "C", provided the Planning Commission

7

Ordinance No. 16 - 2026
Page | 3

Exhibit A

first makes the determination that the requirements of Chapter 1145 have been met according to
the procedures set forth in Chapter 1177.
(c) Accessory Uses. A use listed in Schedule 1137.03 shall be permitted as an
accessory use in a district when denoted by the letter "A". Such use shall be permitted as a
subordinate building or use when it is clearly incidental to and located on the same lot as the
principal building or use. Accessory uses are further regulated in subsequent sections of this
Ordinance.
(d) Accessory Buildings. Accessory buildings that have a gross floor area greater than
200 square feet shall conform to all lot and yard regulations and development plan review and
approval requirements of the zoning district in which the parcel or lot is located. All other
accessory buildings shall be located in a side or rear yard and shall comply with the parking
setbacks. Any detached accessory building shall not be constructed until the principal building is
completed.
(e) Non-Permitted Uses. A use listed in Section 1137.05 shall be prohibited as a nonpermitted use in a district when denoted by the letter "NP".
(f) Use Not Listed in Schedule. It is recognized that this Code may require
interpretation to assign all possible uses to individual zones or districts. Therefore, any use which
is not specifically set forth in this Code shall be reviewed by the Director of Permits to identify the
most similar use identified within the Schedule of Permitted Uses and to determine consistency
with the intent set forth in the Code and compatibility with districts. Based upon this determination,
the proposed use would only be permitted in districts identified within the Schedule of Permitted
Uses for the most similar use. The Director of Permits shall have the discretion to refer
determinations to the Planning Commission. Any party who is denied a requested use by the
Director of Permits or Planning Commission may file an appeal of this determination with the
Zoning and Building Standards Board of Appeals (ZBOA). The ZBOA shall have final authority
on all appeals of any determination.
SECTION 1137.05

SCHEDULE OF PERMITTED USES

Land Use Category

OB
GB-A
Residential
Residential Care Facility
NP
C
Multi-Family Residential
C
C
Live/Work Unit(s)
P
P
Office and Professional Service
Administrative Government Services
P
P
Business Equipment and Supplies Sales
NP
P
Experimental Testing and Research Facilities
NP
NP
Hospital and Associated Medical Offices
NP
NP
Veterinary Hospital
NP
NP
Research and Testing Laboratory
NP
NP
Office Warehouse and Storage
NP
NP
Offices including Administrative, Medical,
P
P
Business, and Professional
Funeral Home
P
C
Call Center
NP
NP
Land Use Category
OB
GB-A
Retail/Services
Bed and Breakfast
C
P
Hotel/Motel
NP
C
Essential Services
P
P
Financial Office or Bank
C
P
Personal Services
C
P
Body Art Establishments
NP
P

GB-B

LI

C
C
P

NP
C
C

P
P
NP
P
P
P
NP
P

P
P
NP
P
NP
P
P
P

C
C
GB-B

NP
NP
LI

P
C
P
P
P
P

NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP

8

Ordinance No. 16 - 2026
4 | Page

Restaurant
NP
Commercial Kitchens and Catering Services
NP
Retail Establishment
C
Business Services
P
Photographic Reproduction Services
C
Sales Offices w/ Only Sample of Goods
C
Studios for Instruction
P
Drive-thru Facility
NP
Car Wash
NP
Dry Cleaning and Laundry Counter Outlets
NP
Vehicle Repair Facility
NP
Pharmacy
NP
New Car Sales
NP
Gasoline Station
NP
Dog Kennel
NP
Smoke Shop
NP
Cannabis Facility Subject to Section 513.16
NP
Land Use Category
OB
Retail/Services
Outdoor Commercial Recreation
NP
Concentrated Outdoor Commercial
NP
Recreation
Indoor Recreation
NP
Library or Museum
C
Membership Sport/Fitness Club
NP
Dance Studios and Schools
P
Public Park and/or Playground
NP
Mainstream Media Shop
NP

Exhibit A

P
P
P
P
P
P
P
C
C
P
C
P
NP
C
NP
NP
NP
GB-A

P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
C
P
P
C
NP
NP
NP
GB-B

P
P
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
P
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
LI

C
C

P
P

NP
NP

P
P
P
P
C
P

P
P
P
P
C
P

NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP

C

NP

P
P
P
P
C

NP
NP
NP
NP
C

C
C

C
C

P
C
C
GB-B

P
C
C
LI

NP

P

NP
NP

NP
P

NP

P

NP

P

Adult Uses as defined in Section 1145.07
NP
NP
Community Facilities
Adult Day-Care Facility
NP
C
Child Day-Care Center
NP
P
Civic Facility for Public Assembly
NP
P
Clubs, Lodges, or Other Assembly Halls
C
C
Post Secondary School Facilities and
C
C
Buildings
K through 12 School Facilities and Buildings
C
C
Facility Providing Government-sponsored
NP
C
Adult Education
Public Safety or Service Facility
C
P
Places of Worship
C
C
Parking Garage
NP
C
Land Use Category
OB
GB-A
Storage and Distribution
Truck or Transfer Terminal; Motor Freight
NP
NP
Garage
Mini/self-Storage Facility
NP
NP
Distributors, Warehouse, and Wholesale
NP
NP
Outlet (Including Break-Bulk Operations
Such as Bottling and/or Packaging)
Industrial / Manufacturing
Manufacturing, Compounding, Processing,
NP
NP
Assembling, and Packaging
Manufacture of Food products, cosmetics,
NP
NP
pharmaceuticals, and toiletries (except when

9

Ordinance No. 16 - 2026
Page | 5

Exhibit A
such operation would create a hazard or
common-law nuisance beyond the confines
of the building).
Manufacture of Electrical and electric
NP
appliances, instruments, and devices.
Manufacture of Musical instruments, toys,
NP
novelties, and other similar small rubber,
plastic, or metal products.
Manufacture of Products from previously
NP
and elsewhere prepared materials (i.e.,
cardboard, cellophane, clay, cloth, fibers,
glass, leather, metals, paper, plastic, precious
or semi-precious metals and/or stones,
rubber, wax, or wood).
Manufacture of products from raw materials.
NP
Computer Data Center
NP
Wireless Telecommunications Facility
Land Use Category
OB
Accessory Uses
Child Day-Care
A,C
Outdoor Dining
NP
Parking Lot
A
Parish Residence, Convent, or other
A
Residential Use Associated with a Place of
Worship
Flag Poles Subject to Section 1123.04(b)(1)
A
Used car sales when accessory to new car
NP
sales as the primary use
Gasoline Station
NP
Overnight Storage of Fleet Vehicles Used in
C
the Operation of the Principal Use
Storage of Vehicles, Trucks, and/or
NP
Equipment for Rental/Lease
SECTION 1137.06

NP

NP

P

NP

NP

P

NP

NP

P

NP
NP
NP
NP
See Chapter 1157
GB-A
GB-B

C
C
LI

A
A
A
A

A
A
A
A

A, C
NP
A
NP

A
A

A
NP

A
NP

A, C
A

NP
A

NP
A

NP

A

A

CANNABIS FACILITIES AND SMOKE SHOPS PROHIBITED

(a) Pursuant to Section 513.16 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of North Canton,
Cannabis Facilities for the cultivation, processing, or sale of cannabis as defined in Chapter 3780
of the Ohio Revised Code are hereby specifically prohibited in all commercial/industrial districts.
(b) Smoke Shops, as defined in this section, are hereby specifically prohibited in all
commercial/industrial districts.
(1) “Smoke Shop” means any retail establishment whose primary use is
related to the sale of products containing, derived from, containing any
form of, or relating to the usage of non-tobacco nicotine, CBD, kratom,
and/or hemp-derived or synthetic cannabinoid, including but not limited to
Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC, that is intended for human use or consumption.
(A) This shall not prohibit the sale of products containing, containing
any form of, or relating to the usage of traditional tobacco, where
the finished product is cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, or chewing
tobacco.
(B) As used in this section, “Primary Use” shall mean the amount of an
area devoted to the sale of products described in this section where
the following apply:
(i) Such products constitute more than 33 percent of the shop’s
stock in trade; or
(ii) Such products occupy more than 33 percent of the shop’s
floor area.

10

Ordinance No. 16 - 2026
6 | Page

SECTION 1137.07

Exhibit A

BUILDING PLACEMENT

Every building shall be located on a lot in compliance with the setback and spacing
requirements set forth in this Section.
(a) Schedule 1137.06(a) Schedule of Building Setbacks.
OB
GB-A
20 ft.
10 ft.
Minimum Front Yard Setback
50 ft.
N/A
Maximum Front Yard Setback
20 ft.
10 ft.
Minimum Side Yard Setback
N/A
N/A
Maximum Side Yard Setback
20 ft.
20 ft.
Minimum Rear Yard Setback
40 ft.
40 ft.
Minimum Setback from a property
line adjoining an “R” or “RMF”
district.

GB-B
20 ft.
N/A
10 ft.
N/A
20 ft.
40 ft.

LI
0 ft.
N/A
15 ft.
N/A
20 ft.
50 ft.

(b) Figure 1136.06(b) Regulatory Graphic Illustrating Lot Standards

(c) Spacing between Buildings on the Same Lot. Whenever two or more buildings are
located on the same lot and such buildings do not share a common wall, the buildings shall
maintain the minimum separation specified in the Building Code.
(d) Front Yards of Built-Up Blocks. In any Commercial/Industrial District whenever
a vacant lot is proposed for development and there are existing buildings (other than those of an
accessory use) on adjacent lots that do not meet the minimum setback requirements, the minimum
front setback for the vacant lot shall be the mean distance of setback of the nearest buildings within
two hundred (200) feet of the proposed structure along the block front.

SECTION 1137.08

LOT AND DENSITY REQUIREMENTS

Land areas shall be divided and developed, and buildings shall be erected, altered, moved, and
maintained in Business Districts only in compliance with the following regulations.
(a) Schedule 1137.04: Minimum Lot Requirements.

Minimum Lot Size
Minimum Lot Width

OB
40,000 sq. ft
150 ft.

GB-A
40,000 sq. ft
150 ft.

GB-B
40,000 sq. ft
150 ft.

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Ordinance No. 16 - 2026
Page | 7

Exhibit A

(b) Lots of Record. A lot of record existing on the effective date of this Zoning
Ordinance shall comply with the nonconforming lot regulations set forth in Section 1159.
SECTION 1137.09

HEIGHT REGULATIONS

The height of all buildings and structures shall conform to the following:
(a) Schedule 1136.08(a) Schedule of Permitted Building Heights.
OB
GB-A
GB-B
15 ft.
25 ft.
25 ft.
Minimum Building Height
30 ft.
45 ft.
45 ft.
Maximum Building Height

LI
25 ft.
50 ft.

(b) Principal buildings in excess of stated maximums up to fifty percent (50%) over
the stated maximums may be permitted as a conditional use when the Planning Commission
determines that the conditional use criteria set forth in Sections 1145.02 and 1145.03 have been
met.
(c) Wireless telecommunication facilities shall comply with the height regulations set
forth in Chapter 1157.
SECTION 1137.10

OFF-STREET PARKING REGULATIONS

Off-street parking areas shall conform to the regulations of Chapter 1153..
SECTION 1137.11

FOOD AND BEVERAGE PICK-UP STANDARDS

(a) Drive-Thru Standards. In all Commercial/Industrial Districts drive-thru facilities
shall comply with the following:
(1) Have a minimum vehicle stacking capacity of eight (8) vehicles;
(2) Have a maximum of two (2) lanes which shall have a minimum width of
ten (10) feet, and be set back a minimum of ten (10) feet from both the curb
cut and any property line with no more than two (2) windows for service;
(3) Have a maximum of two (2) menu boards located in the rear yard which is
no larger than thirty-six (36) square feet and no taller than eight (8) feet;
and
(A) Such menu board does not count towards the property’s total sign
allowance.
(4) May use video and sound equipment to provide service but only when open
for business.
(b) Drive-Up Window Standards. In all Commercial/Industrial Districts drive-up
facilities shall comply with the following:
(1) Have a minimum vehicle stacking capacity of six (6) vehicles;
(2) Have a maximum of two (2) lanes which shall have a minimum width of
ten (10) feet, and be set back a minimum of ten (10) feet from both the curb
cut and any property line with no more than one (1) window for service;
(3) Have a maximum of two (2) menu boards located in the rear yard which is
no larger than thirty-six (36) square feet and no taller than eight (8) feet;
and
(A) Such menu board does not count towards the property’s total sign
allowance.
(4) May not use video and sound equipment to provide service.
(c) Walk-Up Window Standards. In all Commercial/Industrial Districts walk-up
facilities shall comply with the following:
(1) Have a maximum of one (1) window for service;
(2) Have a maximum of one (1) menu board affixed to a building wall that is
no larger than four (4) square feet; and
(A) Such a menu board does not count toward the property’s total sign
allowance.
(3) May not use video and sound equipment to provide service.

12

Ordinance No. 16 - 2026
8 | Page

SECTION 1137.12

Exhibit A

OUTDOOR DISPLAY

Outdoor display of merchandise for sale, when permitted, shall comply with the following.
(a) The outdoor display of merchandise for sale shall:
(1) Outdoor display of merchandise for sale shall be limited to products that are
customarily associated with the operation of the principal business located
on the premises and conducted by employees of such principal business.
There shall be no outdoor display of merchandise for sale by any person
operating or conducting a business that is different or distinct from the
principal business conducted at that location except for temporary displays
pursuant to Section 1123.06(b).
(2) The area of the lot devoted to outdoor display shall not exceed 25 percent
of the ground floor area of the building(s) on the lot.
(3) The outdoor display area shall comply with the building setback
requirements set forth in Schedule 1137.05 for the district in which the lot
is located.
(4) The outdoor display area shall not be located in areas intended for traffic
circulation as identified on the site plan.
SECTION 1137.13

FENCES, SCREENING, AND LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS

(a) Fences. Fences are permitted in all Commercial/Industrial Districts in accordance
with the following:
(1) Fences may be no more than eight (8) feet tall;
(2) Fences may only be in rear or side yards;
(3) Fences must be made out of, vinyl, or non-chain-link metal fence except as
provided below;
(4) Black, vinyl-coated chain-link fence shall be limited to the rear and side
yards.
(A) Gates must be made from the same material as the corresponding
fence.
(b) Dumpster/Waste Receptacle Screening. Dumpster screening is required in all
Commercial/Industrial Districts in accordance with the following:
(1) Screening must be at least six (6) feet tall but no more than eight (8) feet
tall; and
(2) May only be located in the rear or side yards except as provided below.
(c) Landscape Requirements. Landscape buffers shall be provided for all lots in nonresidential districts in accordance with the provisions set forth in Chapter 1155.
SECTION 1137.14

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

All uses shall comply with the following performance standards.
(a) Waste Receptacles. All solid waste products, including empty packing boxes, that
result from any permitted principal, conditional, or accessory use shall either be disposed of, stored
in buildings, or completely enclosed in containers. Such building, container, or dumpster shall be
located in a side or rear yard and shall comply with the minimum parking setbacks established and
be screened.
(b) Lighting. The placement, orientation, distribution patterns, and fixture types of
outdoor lighting shall comply with the regulations set forth in Section 1155.11.
(c) Enclosure. All uses and operations, except off-street parking and loading facilities,
shall be performed wholly within enclosed buildings unless specifically permitted otherwise.

13

Ordinance No. 16 - 2026
Page | 9

Exhibit A
SECTION 1137.15
SUPPLEMENTAL
REGULATIONS
STATIONS AND AUTO SERVICE STATIONS

FOR

GASOLINE

In addition to the above regulations, all gasoline stations and auto service stations shall comply
with the following standards.
(a) Fuel pumps and associated access aisles and canopies shall comply with the parking
setbacks set forth in Section 1137.07.
(b) The only services permitted to be performed outside on a vehicle shall be the
dispensing of air and vehicle fluids such as fuel, oil, and windshield wiper fluid.
(c) Except while being serviced at a pump island, no vehicle shall be parked between
the pumps and the front property line.
SECTION 1137.16

DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW

(a) All conditional uses in a nonresidential district shall be permitted only after
development plans have been reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission according to
the procedures set forth in Chapter 1175.
(b) All permitted uses in a nonresidential district shall be permitted only after
development plans have been reviewed and approved by either the Director of Permits or the
Planning Commission according to the procedures set forth in Chapter 1175.
SECTION 1137.17

APPEAL

(a) Any party who is aggrieved by a determination from the Director of Permits or
Planning Commission may file an appeal with the Zoning and Building Standards Board of
Appeals (ZBOA). The ZBOA shall have final authority on all appeals of any determination.

14

AGENDA ITEM NO. 8.b

Item Cover Page

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
DATE:

August 24, 2026

SUBMITTED BY:

Administration

ITEM TYPE:

Resolution

AGENDA SECTION:

Old Business

SUBJECT:

Resolution 32-2026, 3rd Reading, Parks and Recreation
Committee
A resolution in support of accepting the 2026 Parks, Recreation, and
Open Spaces (PROS) Master Plan.

DESCRIPTION:

The proposed legislation expresses City Council’s support for
accepting the 2026 Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces (PROS)
Master Plan. The Plan was developed through a comprehensive,
community-driven planning process led by Brandstetter Carroll, Inc.
The Plan reflects resident input gathered through multiple
opportunities for public engagement and is intended to guide the
City’s parks and recreation system over the next ten years. The
legislation indicates Council's support of the Administration’s
acceptance and use of the Plan as a strategic planning tool, while
clarifying that such support does not commit Council to fund or
implement any specific recommendations. The resolution also
requires that a copy of the Plan be maintained by the Administration
Department for at least ten years.

ATTACHMENTS:
Res. 32-2026 Accepting 2026 Parks and Recreation Master Plan.docx

15

North Canton City Council
Parks and Recreation Committee
RESOLUTION 32 - 2026
A resolution in support of accepting the 2026 Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces (PROS)
Master Plan.
WHEREAS, the City of North Canton has undertaken a planning process to determine the
parks and recreation needs and desires of its residents; and
WHEREAS, the City selected Brandstetter Carroll, Inc. as the consultant for the
development of a comprehensive, community-driven Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces (PROS)
Master Plan; and
WHEREAS, residents of the City of North Canton were provided with opportunities during
the development of the PROS Master Plan to express opinions, ask questions, and discuss all
aspects of the parks and recreation master plan; and
WHEREAS, this Council supports the acceptance of the 2026 Parks, Recreation, and Open
Spaces (PROS) Master Plan by the City Administration and the Administration’s intent to utilize
the PROS Master Plan as a planning tool for matters related to the City of North Canton’s Parks
and Recreation System over the next ten (10) years.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORTH
CANTON, COUNTY OF STARK, AND STATE OF OHIO:
Section 1.

That this Council hereby supports the acceptance of the 2026 Parks, Recreation,
and Open Spaces (PROS) Master Plan by the City Administration prepared for the
City of North Canton by Brandstetter Carroll, Incorporated.

Section 2.

That a copy of the 2026 Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces (PROS) Master Plan
shall be kept on file in the Administration Department for a period of at least ten
(10) years.

Section 3.

That this resolution shall not obligate this Council to allocate City resources in any
specific manner or to fund any particular recommendations contained in the Plan.

Section 4.

That if a provision of this resolution is or becomes illegal, invalid, or unenforceable,
it shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this
resolution.

Section 5.

That this resolution shall take effect and be in full force from and after the earliest
period allowed by law.

Passed in Council this __________ day of ___________________, 2026.
Attest: _______________________________
Liam K. Ott, Clerk of Council
_____________________
Matthew Stroia, Mayor

Signed on: _____________________

16

AGENDA ITEM NO. 8.c

Item Cover Page

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
DATE:

August 24, 2026

SUBMITTED BY:

Council's Office

ITEM TYPE:

Ordinance

AGENDA SECTION:

Old Business

SUBJECT:

Ordinance 39-2026, 2nd Reading, Parks and Recreation
Committee
An ordinance establishing Chapter 149, Parks and Recreation
Advisory Board, of the Codified Ordinances of the City of North
Canton, thereby establishing the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Board for the City of North Canton.

DESCRIPTION:

The proposed legislation would establish Chapter 149, Parks and
Recreation Advisory Board, within the North Canton Codified
Ordinances and formally establishes a five-member advisory board
to assist the Mayor and City Council on matters related to the City's
parks and recreation system. The Board's role would be to provide
recommendations and guidance concerning the acquisition,
development, maintenance, and operation of parks and recreational
facilities, while also working cooperatively with civic, historical, and
youth athletic organizations to help meet community recreation
needs. The Board would be strictly advisory and would have no
authority to spend or commit public funds, acquire or dispose of
property, or accept donations on behalf of the City. Such powers
would remain with City Council, though the board may review and
make recommendations regarding parks and recreation funding
priorities when requested.
The legislation would establish the Board's membership, appointment
process, and operating structure. The Board will consist of five

17

qualified North Canton electors who are not City employees, elected
officials, appointees to other City boards, or holders of other
municipal offices. Three members will be appointed by the Mayor
and two by City Council, with staggered five-year terms to ensure
continuity. The chairperson of the appropriate Council committee,
along with several City administrative and parks officials, will serve
as non-voting members in advisory capacities. Board members will
serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for pre-approved
expenses. The board must elect its own chairperson and vicechairperson annually, meet at least once quarterly, maintain records
of its proceedings, adopt operating rules, and conduct its activities in
compliance with Ohio law.

ATTACHMENTS:
Ord. 39-2026 Establishing the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.docx

18

North Canton City Council
Parks and Recreation Committee
ORDINANCE 39 - 2026
An ordinance establishing Chapter 149, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, of the
Codified Ordinances of the City of North Canton, thereby establishing the Parks and Recreation
Advisory Board for the City of North Canton.
WHEREAS, the City wishes to establish a board to serve in an advisory capacity to both
the Mayor and City Council on the parks and recreational needs of the community; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Parks and Recreation Advisory Board would advise the City
with respect to the acquisition, development, maintenance, and operation of the parks and
recreational facilities of the City; and
WHEREAS, Charter Section 3.03 grants Council the authority to establish by ordinance
such boards and commissions as may be deemed necessary for the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORTH
CANTON, COUNTY OF STARK, AND STATE OF OHIO:
Section 1.

That Chapter 149, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, of the Codified
Ordinances of the City of North Canton be, and is hereby, established with the
chapter and sections attached hereto and incorporated herein as “Exhibit A”.

Section 2.

That there be, and is hereby, established the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
which shall serve in an advisory capacity to both the Mayor and City Council on
the parks and recreational needs of the community with respect to the acquisition,
development, maintenance, and operation of the parks and recreational facilities of
the City.
a.
The Board may solicit input from, provide assistance to, and cooperate with
civic, historical, and youth athletic organizations in providing these services
and facilities.

Section 3.

That the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board shall have no authority to expend or
obligate public funds. The authority to purchase, sell, lease, dispose of, or accept as
donations, any property or money resides in City Council.
a.
The Board may review and provide advisory input regarding proposed parks
and recreation funding priorities when requested by the Mayor or Council.
The Board may recommend priorities and planning considerations for the
use of appropriated funds, subject to the approval and direction of Council.

Section 4.

That the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board shall consist of five (5) qualified
electors of the Municipality, who shall hold no other appointed or elected municipal
office, nor hold membership on any other City board or commission, nor be an
employee of the City, to be appointed to the Board.
a.
Members shall serve staggered terms of five (5) years, or until their
successors have been appointed. Initial appointments of five (5) elector
members shall be terms of one (1), two (2), three (3), four (4), and five (5)
years with subsequent appointments for five (5) years.
b.
A vacancy during the term of any Advisory Board member shall be filled
for the remaining unexpired term in the same manner as that vacated
member's original appointment.

Section 5.

That the members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board shall be appointed
as follows:
a.
Three (3) members shall be appointed by the Mayor.
b.
Two (2) members shall be appointed by City Council.

Section 6.

That the Chairperson of the appropriate committee of Council shall serve as a nonvoting member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.
a.
The Director of Administration, Deputy Director of Administration, Park
Planning & Development Administrator, and the Parks Operations Manager
shall serve as non-voting members of the board in an advisory capacity.

19

Ordinance No. 39 - 2026
2 | Page

Exhibit A

Section 7.

That the members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board shall serve without
compensation unless expressly provided for by the City Charter or by ordinance of
Council. Reimbursement for expenses incurred by the members of the Advisory
Board in the performance of their duties shall be permitted. Expenses for
reimbursement must be pre-approved by the Mayor or his/her designee.

Section 8.

That the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board shall annually elect from among its
members a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson who shall serve for one (1) year. A
member may serve multiple terms as Chairperson.

Section 9.

That the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board shall meet quarterly each year.
Meetings shall be on the 2nd Wednesday of March, June, September, and
December at 6pm. The Board may meet more frequently as desired but no less than
3 times per year.

Section 10.

That the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board shall adopt written operating rules
and regulations subject to approval or revision by a simple majority vote of the
members of the Board and shall keep a complete journal of its proceedings.

Section 11.

That the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board shall conduct all proceedings in
accordance with Ohio Law and shall adopt by rule appropriate rules, regulations,
and procedures to govern all proceedings thereof.

Section 12.

That the Director of Administration shall designate a qualified person to serve as
the recording secretary of the Board who shall prepare meeting agendas and
minutes of each meeting and shall provide copies of same to the Mayor and
President of Council and for public posting at the City administrative offices.

Section 13.

That if a provision of this ordinance is or becomes illegal, invalid, or unenforceable,
it shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this
ordinance.

Section 14.

That the Clerk of Council and Mayor of the City of North Canton be, and are
hereby, authorized to make such amendments as may be needed to the Codified
Ordinances of the City of North Canton to accurately reflect this ordinance upon
approval of such amended pages by voice vote of Council.

Section 15.

That this ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after the earliest
period allowed by law.
Passed in Council this __________ day of ___________________, 2026.
Attest: _______________________________
Liam K. Ott, Clerk of Council

_____________________
Matthew Stroia, Mayor

Signed on: _____________________

20

Ordinance No. 39 - 2026
Page | 3

Exhibit A
SECTION 149.01 BOARD ESTABLISHED

There is hereby established the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board which shall review
decisions, notices, orders, or other mandates issued under the North Canton Property Maintenance
Code of the Codified Ordinances of the City of North Canton.
SECTION 149.02 MEMBERS; TERMS; COMPENSATION
(a) The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board shall consist of five (5) qualified electors
of the Municipality, who shall hold no other appointed or elected municipal office, nor hold
membership on any other City board or commission, nor be an employee of the City.
(b) Members shall serve staggered terms of five (5) years, or until their successors have
been appointed. Initial appointments of five (5) elector members shall be terms of one (1), two (2),
three (3), four (4), and five (5) years with subsequent appointments for five (5) years. Members
may serve multiple terms.
(1) A vacancy during the term of any Advisory Board member shall be filled
for the remaining unexpired term in the same manner as that vacated
member's original appointment.
(c) Members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board shall be appointed as
follows:
(1) Three (3) members shall be appointed by the Mayor.
(2) Two (2) members shall be appointed by City Council.
(d) The Chairperson of the appropriate committee of Council, the Director of
Administration, Deputy Director of Administration, Park Planning & Development Administrator,
and the Parks Operations Manager shall serve as non-voting members of the board in an advisory
capacity.
(e) Members of the Board shall serve without compensation unless expressly provided
for by the City Charter or by ordinance of Council. Reimbursement for expenses incurred by the
members of the Advisory Board in the performance of their duties shall be permitted. Expenses
for reimbursement must be pre-approved by the Mayor or his/her designee.
SECTION 149.03 RESPONSIBILITIES OF RECREATION BOARD; ADMINISTRATION
(a) The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board shall act as an advisory board to both
the Mayor and City Council. The Board shall may review and recommend long-range plans,
policies, and priorities to address the parks and recreational needs of the community.
(b) The Board may advise with respect to the acquisition, development, maintenance,
and operation of the parks and recreational facilities of the City. The Advisory Board may solicit
input from, provide assistance to, and cooperate with civic, historical, and youth athletic
organizations in providing these services and facilities.
(c) The Board shall have no authority to expend or obligate public funds. The authority
to purchase, sell, lease, dispose of, or accept as donations, any property or money resides in City
Council.
(1) The Board may review and provide advisory input regarding proposed parks
and recreation funding priorities when requested by the Mayor or Council.
The Board may recommend priorities and planning considerations for the
use of appropriated funds, subject to the approval and direction of Council.
(d) The Board shall annually elect from among its members a Chairperson and ViceChairperson who shall serve for one (1) year. A member may serve multiple terms as Chairperson.
(e) The Board shall adopt written operating rules and regulations subject to approval
or revision by a simple majority vote of the members of the Board and shall keep a complete
journal of its proceedings.

21

Ordinance No. 39 - 2026
4 | Page

Exhibit A

(f) The Director of Administration shall designate a qualified person to serve as the
recording secretary of the Board who shall prepare meeting agendas and minutes of each meeting
and shall provide copies of same to the Mayor and President of Council and for public posting at
the City administrative offices.
SECTION 149.04 MEETINGS
(a) That the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board shall meet quarterly each year.
Meetings shall be on the 2nd Wednesday of March, June, September, and December at 6pm. The
Board may meet more frequently as desired but no less than 3 times per year.
(b) The Board shall conduct all proceedings in accordance with Ohio Law and shall
adopt by rule appropriate rules, regulations, and procedures to govern all proceedings thereof.

22

AGENDA ITEM NO. 9.a

Item Cover Page

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
DATE:

August 24, 2026

SUBMITTED BY:

Council's Office

ITEM TYPE:

Resolution

AGENDA SECTION:

New Business

SUBJECT:

Resolution 41-2026, 1st Reading, Parks and Recreation
Committee
A resolution authorizing the Mayor of the City of North Canton to
provide the information and documentation necessary to apply for
funding assistance through the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy
District’s Connecting Communities Grant Program, and declaring the
same to be an emergency.

DESCRIPTION:

The proposed legislation would authorize the Mayor of the City of
North Canton to prepare and submit an application, along with all
required information and documentation, to seek funding through the
Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District’s (MWCD) Connecting
Communities Grant Program for planned renovations to Rotary Park.
The MWCD grant program supports capital projects that expand
public access to outdoor recreation, such as trails, playgrounds,
waterfront access, and park improvements, and is funded through
revenue generated from oil and gas development within the
watershed. Emergency passage has been requested to ensure the
City's grant application can be submitted before the September 1,
2026 deadline.

ATTACHMENTS:
Res. 41-2026 MWCD Connecting Communities Grant for Rotary Park Improvements.docx

23

North Canton City Council
Park and Recreation Committee
RESOLUTION 41 - 2026
A resolution authorizing the Mayor of the City of North Canton to provide the information
and documentation necessary to apply for funding assistance through the Muskingum Watershed
Conservancy District’s Connecting Communities Grant Program, and declaring the same to be an
emergency.
WHEREAS, the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) Connecting
Communities Grant supports capital projects that expand public access to outdoor recreation
throughout counties served by the MWCD; and
WHEREAS, the program, funded through MWCD’s oil and gas revenue, represents a
strategic reinvestment of natural resource development back into the communities of the watershed
to support projects that enhance quality of life and create lasting public benefit; and
WHEREAS, the MWCD’s Connecting Communities Grant provides funding for capital
projects that create outdoor recreational infrastructure, including trails, playgrounds, waterfront
access, and park improvements; and
WHEREAS, the City of North Canton desires financial assistance under the MWCD’s
Connecting Communities Grant program for planned renovations to Rotary Park.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORTH
CANTON, COUNTY OF STARK, AND STATE OF OHIO:
Section 1.

That this Council does hereby authorize the Mayor of the City of North Canton to
prepare and submit an application with the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy
District and to provide all information and documentation required to become
eligible for possible funding assistance through the MWCD’s Connecting
Communities Grant Program and to accept funds if granted.

Section 2.

That the City of North Canton does hereby agree to obligate the funds required to
satisfactorily complete the proposed project and become eligible for reimbursement
under the terms of the Connecting Communities Grant Program.

Section 3.

That if a provision of this resolution is or becomes illegal, invalid, or unenforceable,
it shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this
resolution.

Section 4.

That this resolution is hereby declared to be an emergency measure necessary for
the preservation of the health, safety, and peace of the City of North Canton and
further necessary to ensure an application is completed and filed before the deadline
of September 1, 2026, wherefore, provided it receives the affirmative vote of six or
more members of Council elected thereto, this resolution shall take effect and be in
full force upon its adoption by Council, together with the Mayor’s approval.
Otherwise, it shall take effect and be in force from and after the earliest period
allowed by law.
Passed in Council this __________ day of ___________________, 2026.
Attest: _______________________________
Liam K. Ott, Clerk of Council

_____________________
Matthew Stroia, Mayor

Signed on: _____________________

24

AGENDA ITEM NO. 14.a

Item Cover Page

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
DATE:

August 24, 2026

SUBMITTED BY:

Administration

ITEM TYPE:

Non-Legislation Council Items

AGENDA SECTION:

Executive Session

SUBJECT:

Upon a successful motion and roll call vote Council may enter into an
executive session for the purpose of discussing the purchase or sale
of property as permitted by ORC 121.22(G)(2).

DESCRIPTION:
ATTACHMENTS:

25

AGENDA ITEM NO. 14.b

Item Cover Page

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
DATE:

August 24, 2026

SUBMITTED BY:

Law

ITEM TYPE:

Non-Legislation Council Items

AGENDA SECTION:

Executive Session

SUBJECT:

Upon a successful motion and roll call vote Council may enter into an
executive session for the purpose of discussion with an attorney for
the public body concerning disputes involving the public body that
are the subject of pending court action as permitted by ORC
121.22(G)(3).

DESCRIPTION:
ATTACHMENTS:

26