On the agenda: Trenton meeting — data center (Jan 22)
Past ⚠ Agenda Watch Trenton, Ohio · Thursday, January 22, 2026 — 8 months ago
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The published agenda for this January 22 meeting contains: "data center". The meeting has passed; the record and its outcome live here permanently.
Check the agenda document for the meeting time.
The agenda, word for word
Government public record — the full text of the published document, archived August 17, 2026. Gold highlighting of key terms is ours, not the original’s. Read the original document ↗
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 22nd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Floyd Croucher
Ray Nichols
Ryan Perry
Mayor
Austin Proffitt Ken Roark
Vice Mayor
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
Marci Butts
Sharon Montgomery
Council Member
Council Member
CALL TO ORDER
PRAYER
1. Keith Risner
ROLL CALL
PRESENTATIONS
1. Councilman Proffitt Planning Commission Swearing In Ceremony
2. Ted Farmer and Josh Vinson BZA Swearing In Ceremony
3. Financial Transparency Tools
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Minutes of the December 18th, 2025, Council Work Session
2. Minutes of the December 18th, 2025, Regular Council Meeting
3. Minutes of the January 8th, 2026, Council Work Session
4. Minutes of the January 8th, 2026, Regular Council Meeting
CORRESPONDENCE
1. Law Enforcement Trust Fund
2. December Financial Snapshot
3. December 9th, 2025, Parks Board Minutes
AUDIENCE OF PUBLIC
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
PUBLIC HEARINGS
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 22nd, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
NEW BUSINESS
1. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO PURCHASE TWO KUBOTA
ZD 1211 ZERO TURN MOWERS FROM ZIMMER TRACTOR FOR THIRTY-SEVEN
THOUSAND FORTY-FOUR DOLLARS AND FORTY-FOUR CENTS. ($37,044.44) AND
FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL REQUIRED
DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
2. A MOTION TO APPOINT JOSH VINSON TO FILL THE VACANCY ON THE BOARD
OF ZONING APPEALS FOR A 4 YEAR TERM ENDING DEECEMBER 31, 2029.
3. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A PURCHASE
AGREEMENT WITH TIM LALLY CHEVROLET, FOR THE PURPOSE OF
PURCHASING A 2025 CHEVROLET TAHOE POLICE VEHICLE IN AN AMOUNT
NOT TO EXCEED FIFTY-THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS AND ZERO CENTS
($53,000.00) FOR USE BY THE CITY OF TRENTON POLICE DEPARTMENT AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL DOCUMENTS RELATED
THERETO.
LEGISLATION
1. A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE BUTLER COUNTY AUDITOR TO ADVANCE TO
THE FINANCE DIRECTOR OF THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO, TAXES ASSESSED
AND COLLECTED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO. (First
Reading)
2. AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A LEASE AGREEMENT WITH CHRIS PROESCHEL
FARMS, LLC, FOR THE LEASE OF REAL PROPERTY OWNED BY THE CITY OF
TRENTON, OHIO, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (First Reading)
3. AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A LEASE AGREEMENT WITH ALEX PROESCHEL
FOR THE LEASE OF REAL PROPERTY OWNED BY THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO,
AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (First Reading)
4. AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE
FIRST EXTENSION AND MODIFICATION OF THE PROSECUTION SERVICES
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO AND THE CITY OF
MIDDLETOWN, OHIO, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (First Reading, Suspend
Rules)
AUDIENCE OF COUNCIL
ADJOURNMENT
City Council Work Session Agenda MINUTES
December 18th, 2025
1. Public Comment
2. Finance Director, Matthew Mesisklis
a. Discuss Motion
i. Regarding authorizing the City Manager to pay for the city’s 2025
Bureau of Workers’ Comp premium at a cost of $44,517, and further
authorizing the Finance Director to approve the then and now
1. Mr. Mesisklis stated that several items were before Council,
some of which were also included as correspondence for the
regular Council meeting, and he would review those briefly. He
explained that the first item on the work session agenda was
authorization to pay the City’s 2025 Workers’ Compensation
premium in the amount of $44,517. He noted that the City
typically has a purchase order in place for this expense, but it
was inadvertently missed during the year-end carryover
process. Mr. Mesisklis reported that the City’s Bureau of
Workers’ Compensation costs have decreased by nearly
$20,000 over the past three years, which he attributed to
improvements in safety practices and a recent audit showing
reduced costs associated with firefighter staffing compared to
prior years. He added that the premium amount is generally
consistent with last year’s cost.
b. Discuss Legislation
i. An Ordinance to make annualized appropriations for current operating
expenses and other expenditures of the City of Trenton . (Second
Reading)
1. Mr. Mesisklis explained that the budget ordinance was before
Council and that all related documents were included in the
Council agenda. He stated that he had prepared his customary
PowerPoint presentation and noted that budget approval occurs
at the fund and expense category level, such as personnel and
other expenses, while the detailed line items are available for
review within the agenda materials. During discussion, Mayor
asked City Attorney Ziepfel to clarify whether Council may
amend the budget after adoption. City Attorney Ziepfel
confirmed that once adopted, Council may amend the budget at
any time to reflect updated priorities. He further explained that
the budget process is governed by Ohio Revised Code Chapter
5705 and that there is a mandatory deadline of April 1 of the
fiscal year for adoption. He stated that failure to adopt a budget
by that date would prevent City expenditures, except potentially
through temporary appropriations, which could restrict
operations. Mr. Ziepfel advised that adopting the budget is the
most risk-averse approach to avoid disruption, noting that a
newly seated Council may revisit and amend the budget as
needed. Mr. Mesisklis added that while adoption after January
1 would result in an audit note, supplemental appropriations
may be adopted at any time during the year and may increase
or decrease appropriations. He concluded by stating that this
completed his overview of the budget.
ii. A Resolution accepting the amounts and rates as determined by the
budget commission and authorizing the necessary tax levies and
certifying them to the county auditor. (First Reading, Suspend Rules)
1. Mr. Mesisklis explained that the resolution before Council
concerned accepting the amounts and rates determined by the
County Budget Commission and authorizing the necessary tax
levies to be certified to the County Auditor. He stated that the
item is procedural in nature and is typically approved alongside
the tax budget, but was inadvertently omitted earlier in the year.
He explained that as part of the operating budget process, the
County Auditor reviews the City’s valuation data and provides an
estimate of the property tax revenue the City is expected to
collect in the coming year. Approval of the resolution authorizes
the City to accept those figures and transmit them back to the
County
iii. An Ordinance (Supplemental Appropriations and Adjustments)
Amending 2025 final appropriation Ordinance 33-2024 to adjust
appropriations for various funds and declaring an emergency. (First
Reading, Suspend Rules)
1. Mr. Mesisklis explained that the ordinance before Council was a
supplemental appropriation and adjustment amending the
2025 final appropriations ordinance to account for various
budget changes and to declare an emergency. He stated that
the purpose of the ordinance is to reconcile year-end expenses
with all additional items approved by Council throughout the
year, bringing the official 2025 budget into alignment with
actual 2025 expenditures. He noted that the ordinance also
includes outstanding purchase orders for 2025 items that will
be expended in future periods. As examples, he cited large
capital projects such as the City building and the water tower,
which are not expected to be completed within a single year but
require funds to be encumbered in one fiscal year and
expended over time. He explained that this accounts for the
higher supplemental appropriation amount, as those funds will
be spent from the 2025 budget throughout the following year.
c. Discuss Presentation
i. 2026 Budget Presentation
1. Mr. Mesisklis stated that another item of correspondence
before Council was the City’s audit report, which auditors
reviewed in greater depth this year. He explained that audits
are typically released in June or July, but because the City will
be transitioning to a different auditing standard and moving
directly under State auditing oversight next year, the auditors
conducted a more thorough review. He read excerpts from the
audit opinion, noting that the auditors issued an unmodified
opinion stating that the City’s financial statements fairly
present, in all material respects, the financial position and
changes in financial position of the City of Trenton for the year
ended December 31, 2024, in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles. He highlighted that total assets
and deferred outflows exceeded total liabilities and deferred
inflows at year-end by approximately $39,759,14, representing
the City’s net position, which increased by approximately
$6,131,38—an 18% increase from 2023—across governmental
and business-type activities. Mr. Mesisklis reported that the
audit identified one material weakness related to compensated
absences, explaining that changes in Governmental Accounting
Standards Board requirements increased how sick leave
liabilities must be reported and that the City had initially
understated that liability by approximately 20 percent. He noted
that the issue was corrected prior to issuance of the audit
report and documented accordingly. He further stated that a
management letter was also issued outlining immaterial
adjustments, which prevented the City from receiving the
Auditor of State Award, a designation achieved by
approximately four percent of municipalities. Mr. Mesisklis then
reported that the City did receive the Ohio STAR Transparency
Award, earning four out of four stars after meeting all seven
evaluation criteria, including timely public records responses,
use of the Ohio Checkbook, publication of the audit and
management letter on the City website, and enhanced
transparency practices. He noted that approximately fifteen
percent of Ohio local governments receive this recognition. He
stated that the audit documents are posted on the City’s
website and are required to be read into the record but do not
require Council action. He concluded by noting that aside from
the budget presentation, no additional items were before
Council at that time.
3. City Attorney, Nick Ziepfel
a. Discuss Legislation
i. Regarding approving the terms and conditions of a three year
successor collective bargaining agreement. (First Reading, Suspend
Rules)
1. City Attorney Ziepfel addressed Council regarding an ordinance
approving a collective bargaining agreement with the City’s
police officers. He explained that City staff and the bargaining
unit began negotiations a few weeks prior and that the City
historically operates under three-year collective bargaining
agreements for full-time patrol officers. He noted that during
the prior negotiation cycle in late 2022 and early 2023, the
agreement underwent a near-complete rewrite, which was a
challenging and lengthy process, but resulted in what City staff
believed to be a fair agreement. Ziepfel stated that this
negotiation cycle was significantly more efficient, requiring
fewer than two bargaining sessions to reach a tentative
agreement. He summarized the key terms, including wage
increases of 6 percent, 8 percent, and 6 percent over the next
three years, noting that these increases are consistent with
comparable jurisdictions of similar size, call volume, and
department structure, and align with historical compensation
trends over the past 15 to 20 years. Additional changes include
a small quarterly stipend recognizing the added responsibilities
of the assigned detective, minor adjustments to shift
differential pay, and updates to the uniform allowance. Mr.
Ziepfel also highlighted changes related to health insurance
contributions, explaining that as the City evaluates future health
insurance options, including a potential transition to a Health
Savings Account (HSA) plan, the agreement includes incentives
to encourage participation in wellness programs and greater
cost-consciousness in healthcare spending. He stated that
there were no other substantive economic changes in the
agreement and praised both City staff and the bargaining unit
for their preparation and cooperation throughout the process.
Council members commended the efficiency of the negotiations
and expressed appreciation to both the City and the union.
Ziepfel noted that the agreement represents a rare instance in
which a successor collective bargaining agreement was
reached prior to the expiration of the existing contract, which
runs through the end of the year, with the new agreement
scheduled to take effect January 1, 2026, and continue through
December 31, 2028.
4. Clerk of Council, Stanislav Beresford
a. Discuss Motion
i. Regarding a motion to appoint Jennifer Harris to continue to serve on
the planning commission
ii. Regarding a motion to appoint Bob Melloh to continue to serve on the
planning commission
iii. Regarding a motion to appoint a council member to serve on OKI
1. Mr. Beresford addressed Council and stated that several
motions were before them. He explained that motions were
presented to reappoint Jennifer Harris and Bob Melloh to
continue serving on their respective commissions. He also
noted that a motion was before Council to appoint a Council
member to serve as the City’s representative to OKI (OhioKentucky-Indiana Regional Council of Governments). Mr.
Beresford explained that committee assignments are typically
discussed at the first meeting in January, but the OKI
appointment must be made prior to the start of 2026. Mr.
Beresford opened the discussion and noted that Mr. Croucher
currently serves as the City’s OKI representative. Mr. Croucher
stated that he wished to remain in that role, and no other
Council members expressed interest. Mayor then highlighted
the impact of Mr. Croucher’s service, noting that the City’s
paving budget increased by approximately $1 million for the
upcoming year as a direct result of OKI funding efforts. He
stated that Mr. Croucher attends monthly meetings in
Cincinnati, represents the City, ensures required documentation
is completed, and actively advocates for infrastructure funding.
Mr. Croucher also thanked City Manager Nichols, Assistant City
Manager Nicole, Finance Director Mesisklis, and Mr. Brad Baker
for ensuring all paving projects and documentation were
properly prepared, stating that their coordination contributed to
the successful funding outcome. Council members expressed
appreciation for the collective effort.
b. Discuss Legislation
i. Regarding an Ordinance Amending Ordinance 34-2025 for the purpose
of correcting a scrivener’s error. (Second Reading)
1. Mr. Beresford stated that additional legislation was before
Council. He explained that one ordinance amends Ordinance
34-125 for the purpose of correcting a scrivener’s error, noting
that two ordinances had previously established Section
1252.17 and that the proposed ordinance corrects the
numbering by establishing Section 1252.18. He emphasized
that no language within the code is being changed. Mr.
Beresford then addressed an ordinance amending Chapter 276
of the Codified Ordinances relating to the Parks and Recreation
Board. He read the proposed changes, which establish a sevenmember board consisting of one Council member appointed for
a one-year term and six citizen members appointed by Council,
and authorize the board to create alternate positions as
needed. The amendment clarifies that alternates may serve in
place of absent citizen members in accordance with board
procedures, but may not substitute for the Council
representative, and that only a non-serving Council member
who also sits on the Parks and Recreation Board may substitute
for the Council representative if necessary. During discussion,
Council members confirmed that the changes prevent
alternates from substituting for the Council representative and
limit the number of Council members serving simultaneously on
the Parks and Recreation Board. Mayor noted that the
amendment provides clearer structure and avoids overlap
between Council and board roles. Mr. Beresford stated that
Council would make appointments at a future meeting and
concluded that he had no further items.
5. City Manager, Marcos Nichols
a. Discuss Motion
i. Regarding a motion authorizing the City Manager to enter into a
contract with the Kleingers Group, for the construction design of
widening wayne Madison Road for a total cost of $185,000.00 and
further authorizing the City Manager to sign all required documents
related thereto.
1. Mr. Nichols stated that a motion was before Council to enter
into a contract for the construction design of the Widening Way
Madison Road project at a total cost of $185,000. He explained
that approving the contract would allow the City to begin the
engineering process, identify project requirements, and develop
a final estimated construction cost for widening Way Madison
Road to incorporate a third lane. In response to a question, he
clarified that the project area extends from State Street to the
roundabout on Way Madison. He asked if there were any
additional questions regarding the motion.
b. Discuss Legislation
i. An Ordinance authorizing the purchase of approximately 7.26 acres of
real property located in the City of Trenton, Butler County, Ohio. (First
Reading)
1. Mr. Nichols explained that an ordinance was before Council
authorizing the purchase of 7.26 acres of property located at
3046 Pearson Road for Water Division purposes. He stated that
in 2026 the City intends to establish a public/institutional
zoning district, and that this property, along with City parks and
the City building, would be considered for inclusion in that
district in the future. He noted that Community Park and Home
Avenue Park are currently zoned residential and stated that it
would be more appropriate to align those properties with a
public/institutional zoning classification rather than residential
zoning.
ii. A Resolution authorizing cooperation with ODOT for PID NO. 115754
resurfacing improvements to East State Street (S.R. 73) (First Reading)
1. Mr. Nichols presented a resolution for ODOT Project No.
115754, explaining that it relates to the resurfacing project
extending from First Street to the bridge outside of town. He
stated that Council has approved similar agreements in recent
months and that ODOT requires confirmation that all
agreements are in place following completion of preliminary
engineering. He noted that the resolution acknowledges the
City’s estimated share of the project cost, totaling $685,999,
and authorizes approval for inclusion in the upcoming year’s
budget. Mr. Nichols then addressed the previously discussed
ordinance authorizing the purchase of the 7.26-acre property
for Water Division purposes, noting that although the ordinance
was drafted as an emergency, staff recommended proceeding
with a second reading and final passage at the same meeting
due to delays exceeding two months that have caused
additional costs to the sellers, who have been required to keep
utilities active while awaiting closing. Council Member Perry
expressed concern with closing a property transaction under an
expedited process but agreed that the property should move
forward, noting that the well testing conducted over the past
several years showed this site to be the strongest option and
that the purchase price was reasonable. Mr. Nichols
acknowledged that delays were partly due to
miscommunication between staff and the City’s real estate
broker regarding the environmental assessment process and
engineering scheduling, and he apologized for the delay. Mayor
Perry stated that while he understood the circumstances, he
was uncomfortable with closing a property purchase under an
accelerated process and requested that staff review the
timeline to identify what caused the delay and ensure similar
issues do not occur in the future. Mr. Nichols agreed to review
the matter and report back to Council.
c. Executive Session Request
i. To consider the confidential information related to marketing plans,
specific business strategy, production techniques, trade secrets, or
personal financial statements of an applicant for economic
development assistance and to confer with legal counsel.
ii. To discuss pending or imminent court action with the public body’s
legal counsel.
iii. To discuss the appointment of a public official
1. Mr. Nichols held his executive session request till the regular
council meeting
6. Council Comments and Questions.
a. Mayor Perry addressed an incident involving damage to the local soccer fields,
stating that it was unfortunate and disappointing to see the harm done. He
emphasized that the fields are maintained by volunteers through donations
and fundraising efforts so that children and families can enjoy them, and that
damaging the fields set those efforts back significantly. Mayor Perry stated
that if those responsible are unwilling to come forward, he encouraged them
to volunteer to help clean up and repair the damage. He noted that the City
has been in contact with the soccer association and plans to meet to
determine what assistance the City can provide to help make the situation
right. He encouraged anyone with information about the incident to contact
the Police Department, noting that the City has license plate reader cameras
that could assist in identifying those responsible. Mayor Perry stated that
helping law enforcement in this matter helps the City, the children, and the
broader community. He added that if the incident was an act of frustration or
anger, it was misdirected, as the fields are operated by a private organization
on donated land. He concluded by stating that the City would do everything it
can to assist in addressing the damage and restoring the fields.
Motion - That executive session be adjourned, and the meeting be adjourned.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st Vice Mayor Woodrey 2nd Ms. Montgomery
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Croucher, Nichols, Combs, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Time: 6:57 PM
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
Calvin Woodrey Floyd Croucher
Ryan Perry
Mayor
Jennie Combs
Dale Perry
Vice Mayor
Council Member
Council Member
Raymond Nichols Sharon Montgomery
Council Member Council Member
Council Member
CALL TO ORDER
PRAYER
1. Deacon Larry Gronas
ROLL CALL
Present: Perry, Woodrey, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Perry (7)
Absent:
(0)
PRESENTATIONS
a. Prior to Presentations Mayor made a motion to read items 4 and 5 under new business
Motion – Motion to read items 4 and 5 under new business
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Ms. Combs _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
A. A MOTION TO APPOINT HANNAH DEARTH AND VINCE WASILOSKI TO FILL THE TWO
VACANCY POSITIONS ON THE PARKS BOARD FOR A 3 YEAR TERM BEGINNING JANUARY
1, 2026 AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2028
B. A MOTION TO APPOINT DONNA FIELDS, SAMANTHA OWENS, HENRY ROOT, TIMOTHY
PHILLIPS AND NATHAN COFFEY AS ALTERNATES ON THE PARKS BOARD FOR TERMS
BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2026 AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2028.
Motion – Motion to Approve the following appointments
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Mr. Croucher _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
1. Donna Fields, Samantha Owens, Henry Root, Timothy Phillips, Nathan Coffey: Parks
Board Alternate Swearing In Ceremony
2. Hannah Dearth and Vince Wasiloski: Parks Board Member Swearing In Ceremony
3. Councilmember Dale Perry Proclamation and Recognition
4. Councilmember Jenni Combs Proclamation and Recognition
5. Councilmember Calvin Woodrey Proclamation and Recognition
6. New Council Swearing In Ceremony
7. Vice Mayor Swearing In Ceremony
8. Mayor Swearing In Ceremony
9. 2026 Budget Presentation
a. Mr. Mesiklis presented an overview of the City’s 2026 operational budget and
noted that the detailed line-item budget was included in the Council agenda
packet. He explained that municipal budgets serve two primary purposes: (1) a
guideline for spending and an estimate of resources and revenues for the
calendar year, and (2) a policy document reflecting the City’s priorities and
projects. He stated that Trenton uses fund accounting, with 31 active funds and
legally restricted uses for revenues deposited into each fund. He identified the
City’s major fund categories as water, sewer, streets, police levy, fire levy,
general, and capital/TIF-related funds, and explained that utility bill revenues
are deposited into their respective funds and cannot be intermixed. Mr. Mesiklis
outlined the budget development and approval process, stating that
departments draft fund budgets by line-item expenditures, management reviews
them with department heads, and budget discussions may be held with Council
members and committees. He said the budget is reviewed through committees
(including Public Safety and Strategic Management), then presented to Council
for approval by fund and expense category, entered into the City’s accounting
software as the spending plan for the year, and filed with the County Auditor. He
also summarized the City’s budget policies, including requirements that funds
end the year within reserve balance targets (noting a General Fund reserve goal
of approximately five to six months of operating expenses, and strategic
reserves in the Water and Sewer funds for contingencies), and that each
operating fund must be balanced pursuant to statutory requirements (revenues
plus cash on hand must be equal to or greater than expenditures). He noted it is
best practice for non-recurring project expenses—when exceeding revenues—to
be charged to reserve balances, and stated that unbudgeted expenses must be
authorized by Council through supplemental appropriations, with amended
ordinances and certified resources submitted to the County Auditor as needed.
Mr. Mesiklis discussed financial metrics used in municipal finance and stated
that the City maintains bond ratings for general obligation and water enterprise
debt. He reported Trenton’s general obligation bond rating as AA2 (Moody’s) and
the water enterprise rating as A1, describing both as strong. He referenced
Ohio’s balanced budget requirement and stated that Ohio municipalities
generally compare favorably nationwide due to that requirement. He provided
examples of ratings for nearby jurisdictions for comparison and stated that bond
rating changes can occur when new debt is issued. He noted that Trenton
received upgrades in both the general obligation and water ratings in 2025,
citing factors identified by Moody’s including successful audits, a budget book
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
award, strong income tax growth, and economic development prospects, and
explained that improved ratings can reduce borrowing costs. Turning to the
2026 budget figures, Mr. Mesiklis stated that total expected all-funds revenues
were approximately $35.1 million (including transfers), with the General Fund
just under $6.5 million. He explained that transfers are recorded as revenue
within funds but do not represent new external money. He highlighted that
increases within the Police Levy Fund reflected a higher General Fund transfer
rather than increased levy collections. He also explained that debt proceeds are
treated as revenue because they represent cash inflow, noting that projected
Water Fund revenues included OWDA loan proceeds associated with the water
tower project. He stated that certain potential revenues—such as PILOT
payments tied to economic development projects and water service
agreements—were not included due to uncertainty and would be addressed later
through supplemental appropriations and certificates of resources if realized.
Mr. Mesiklis summarized major revenue assumptions and changes, including:
(1) short-term notes having been paid in full in prior years; (2) a projected
$45,000 decrease in property tax revenues due to state and county rollbacks,
with RID-related revenues expected to remain stable due to new construction
offsetting impacts; (3) expected receipt of outstanding property tax payments in
a TIF fund that were not paid in the prior period; (4) a projected 15% decline in
income tax revenue budgeted conservatively due to timing impacts from the
RITA transition and a slowdown in delinquent collections; (5) a police transfer
budgeted at approximately $3.36 million, with an expectation that this subsidy
will continue to grow; and (6) reduced investment revenue due to falling interest
rates and statutory investment limitations. Mr. Mesiklis then reviewed the
expense side of the budget. He stated that the 2026 all-funds initial budget
totaled approximately $38.9 million, with significant changes driven by the water
tower construction activity. He noted decreases in certain funds compared to
2025 were attributable to project timing, carryovers, and previously initiated
contracts. He explained that the initial budget does not include supplemental or
unforeseen items that occur throughout the year. He also described the level of
Public Works support provided to parks maintenance, estimating that parksrelated work accounts for approximately 8.9% of Public Works time, or roughly
$200,000 annually when wages and benefits are considered. Mr. Mesiklis
identified key expense items and planned allocations, including a General Fund
capital transfer, a parks transfer, continuation of the annual General Fund
transfer to the Fire Levy, and a budgeted increase in the Police transfer. He
stated that the City reworked its health insurance plans to achieve a zero-cost
increase for 2026 by transitioning to an HSA-based plan and expanding
wellness incentives. He described planned parks and recreation investments
funded through RID/TIF and related funds, including continued work on the
splash pad and Founders Park electrical upgrades, a placeholder for Home
Avenue Park redesign, Community Park repaving improvements, a dog park
allocation, community events funding, and a proposed parks supply building to
improve operational efficiency. Mr. Mesiklis discussed capital planning and
infrastructure, including OWDA financing and repayment timing, and noted the
City’s paving/infrastructure investment levels for 2026. He referenced
anticipated and ongoing projects such as roadwork supported by grant and loan
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
programs, engineering for widening Wayne Madison Road, and additional capital
needs to be brought to Council as plans and funding become more certain. He
also noted that additional property tax shifts and credits contemplated in
pending state legislation could affect local revenues, and encouraged the public
to review the legislation and form their own opinions. Mr. Mesiklis explained that
authorizing a budget does not automatically authorize individual purchases, and
that Council retains the ability to approve or deny expenditures (particularly
those over thresholds requiring Council authorization) even if appropriations
exist. He provided a detailed review of utility funds, stating the City was planning
0% increases for residential water and sewer rates, while noting that certain
commercial/industrial sewer rates above a usage threshold would be tied to CPI.
He also stated that the refuse fund would require a $1/month increase due to
the contractor agreement. Mr. Mesiklis reviewed Fire Levy operations and
sustainability, stating the City budgeted for five-person staffing at all times,
included 3% COLA assumptions plus step increases, and projected EMS revenue
improvements. He discussed levy effectiveness declining due to property
valuation-driven millage reductions and presented projections showing the Fire
Levy fund balance drawing down in coming years, with decisions likely required
in future years. He reviewed Police operations, stating the Police Levy was not
intended to fund the entire department, that the General Fund subsidizes the
majority of police and dispatch operations, and that the subsidy is expected to
increase annually. He also referenced bargaining agreement cost drivers,
dispatch staffing levels, vehicle replacements, and other operating
considerations. Mr. Mesiklis concluded by summarizing that the 2026 budget
reflected expected revenues of approximately $35.12 million and budgeted
expenses of approximately $39.0 million, resulting in a planned drawdown
supported by available cash balances. He reported an expected year-end 2026
all-funds balance of approximately $17.7 million and a year-end 2026 General
Fund balance just under $3.0 million, consistent with reserve policies. He
concluded his presentation and noted the line-item details were available for
Council review. The Mayor added that City expenditures are publicly available
through the Ohio Checkbook system. (The Entire Budget Presentation Can Be
Viewed Below These Minutes)
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Minutes of the December 4th, 2025, Council Work Session.
2. Minutes of the December 4th, 2025, Regular Council Meeting.
Motion –To approve the minutes of the December 4th, 2025, Council Work Session and Regular Council
Meeting
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Mr. Nichols___ 2nd_____ Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Woodrey
ABSENT:
(6)
(0)
(1)
(0)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
CORRESPONDENCE
1.
2.
3.
4.
2024 Audited Financial
2024 STARS Report
Clark Schaefer Hackett Management Letter
November Financial Snapshot (The Entire November Snapshot Can Be Viewed Below
These Minutes)
AUDIENCE OF PUBLIC
Fire Chief Brian Sebald- Chief Sebald addressed Council and described the evening as
bittersweet, thanking outgoing council members for their years of support and contributions
to the Trenton Fire Department, including wage increases, step raises, added holidays, new
and modern equipment, and the construction of the new fire station in 2018, all of which
have helped build a strong and stable department. He emphasized that the department
wants to continue moving forward but acknowledged that many future goals will require
additional funding, noting this as an ongoing challenge. Chief Sebald also shared a
lighthearted remark about Vice Mayor Woodrey’s dedication, clarifying that while he may not
claim dedication to saving lives and property in the traditional sense, he is firmly dedicated
to the safe delivery of the crew, a phrase Chief Sebald explained originated years earlier as
his own email tagline during his career. He concluded by thanking outgoing members for
their service, expressing appreciation to current members, and welcoming incoming council
members while noting they have big shoes to fill. Following his remarks, Vice Mayor
Woodrey reflected on the budget presentation by comparing the proposed $2 million 2026
fire department budget to the roughly $40,000 annual budget during his time on the
volunteer fire department in the 1980s, noting how much the department and times have
changed while expressing pride that they “made it” through those earlier years.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Motion –That Items 1 through 3 Under Unfinished Business is read by title only
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
1. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE 34-2025 FOR THE PURPOSE OF CORRECTING
A SCRIVENERS ERROR. (Second Reading)
Motion –The Ordinance Be Adopted
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
2. AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE 2025 REVISION OF THE OHIO FIRE CODE AND
UPDATING THE CITY OF TRENTON CODIFIED ORDINANCES TO REFLECT SUCH CHANGES.
(Second Reading)
Motion –The Ordinance Be Adopted
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Mr. Croucher _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
3. A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE MUNICIPAL WAGE SCALE OF THE CITY OF TRENTON.
(Second Reading)
Motion –The Resolution Be Adopted
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Ms. Combs _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. AN ORDINANCE TO MAKE ANNUALIZED APPROPRIATIONS FOR CURRENT OPERATING
EXPENSES AND OTHER EXPENDITURES OF THE CITY OF TRENTON, STATE OF OHIO,
DURING A PERIOD BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2026, AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2026.
a. Mayor opened the public hearing, he opened the floor for anyone who wishes to
speak for the ordinance. No-one came to the floor. Mayor then opened the floor
for those who wish to speak against the ordinance. No-one came to the floor.
Mayor then closed the public hearing.
NEW BUSINESS
1. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH THE
KLEINGERS GROUP, FOR THE CONSTRUCTION DESIGN OF WIDENING WAYNE MADISON
ROAD FOR A TOTAL COST OF ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY-FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS
AND ZERO CENTS ($185,000.00) AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
SIGN ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motion –Motion To Authorize.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Mr. Croucher _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
2. A MOTION TO APPOINT JENNIFER HARRIS TO CONTINUE TO SERVE ON THE PLANNING
COMMISSION FOR A TERM OF 4 YEARS BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2026 AND ENDING
DECEMBER 31, 2029.
Motion –Motion To Appoint
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__Mr. Croucher___ 2nd_____ Ms. Combs _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
3. A MOTION TO APPOINT BOB MELLOH TO CONTINUE TO SERVE ON THE PLANNING
COMMISSION FOR A TERM OF 4 YEARS BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2026 AND ENDING
DECEMBER 31, 2029.
Motion –Motion To Appoint
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Mr. Nichols _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
(7)
(0)
(0)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
ABSENT:
(0)
4. A MOTION TO APPOINT HANNAH DEARTH AND VINCE WASSILOSKI TO FILL THE TWO
VACANCY POSITIONS ON THE PARKS BOARD FOR A 3 YEAR TERM BEGINNING JANUARY
1, 2026 AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2028.
5. A MOTION TO APPOINT DONNA FIELDS, SAMANTHA OWENS, HENRY ROOT, TIMOTHY
PHILLIPS AND NATHAN COFFEY AS ALTERNATES ON THE PARKS BOARD FOR TERMS
BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2026 AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2028.
6. A MOTION TO APPOINT MR. CROUCHER TO SERVE ON OHIO KENTUCKY INDIANA (OKI)
REGIONAL COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS FOR A ONE YEAR TERM ENDING DECEMBER
31, 2026.
a. Mayor Perry noted that for those who may not have attended the work session,
Mr. Croucher has shown significant dedication to the City by traveling to
Cincinnati each month to attend meetings, and that his efforts this year directly
helped secure a grant of approximately one million dollars to increase the city’s
paving budget, explaining that this increase was made possible through a
combination of city staff having the necessary paperwork in order and the strong
relationships Mr. Croucher has built through consistent participation, and he
stated that Council would like to collectively thank Mr. Croucher for his work and
commitment.
Motion –Motion To Appoint
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__Ms. Montgomery___ 2nd_____ Mr. Perry _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Croucher
ABSENT:
(6)
(0)
(1)
(0)
7. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO PAY FOR THE CITY’S 2025 BUREAU OF
WORKERS’ COMP PREMIUM AT A COST OF $44,517, AND FURHTER AUTHORIZING THE
FINANCE DIRECTOR TO APPROVE THE THEN AND NOW CERTIFICATE RELATED THERETO
IN COMPLIANCE WITH AND PURSUANT TO OHIO REVISED CODE SECTION 5705.41(D)
AND CITY OF TRENTON RESOLUTION NO. 12-2022.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Mr. Perry _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
LEGISLATION
Motion –That Items 1 through 7 Under Legislation is read by title only
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Mr. Croucher _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
1. AN ORDINANCE TO MAKE ANNUALIZED APPROPRIATIONS FOR CURRENT OPERATING
EXPENSES AND OTHER EXPENDITURES OF THE CITY OF TRENTON, STATE OF OHIO,
DURING A PERIOD BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2026, AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2026.
(Second Reading)
Motion –The Ordinance Be Approved
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Mr. Croucher _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
2. AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF APPROXIMATELY 7.26 ACRES OF
REAL PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE CITY OF TRENTON, BUTLER COUNTY, OHIO, AND
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (First Reading, Suspend Rules)
Motion –That the Rules be Suspended and the Ordinance is voted on tonight
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Perry
NAYS: Perry
ABSTAIN: Croucher
ABSENT:
(5)
(1)
(1)
(0)
Motion –The Ordinance Be Authorized
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Mr. Nichols___ 2nd_____ Mr. Perry _
YAYS: Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Perry
NAYS: Perry
ABSTAIN: Croucher
ABSENT:
(5)
(1)
(1)
(0)
3. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 276 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY
OF TRENTON RELATING TO THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD. (First Reading)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
4. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING COOPERATION WITH THE OHIO DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION (ODOT) FOR PID NO. 115754 RESURFACING IMPROVEMENTS TO
EAST STATE STREET (S.R. 73); AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (First Reading)
5. A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE AMOUNTS AND RATES AS DETERMINED BY THE
BUDGET COMMISSION AND AUTHORIZING THE NECESSARY TAX LEVIES AND
CERTIFYING THEM TO THE COUNTY AUDITOR. (First Reading, Suspend Rules)
Motion –That the Rules be Suspended and the Resolution is voted on tonight
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Mr. Perry _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
Motion –The Resolution Be Approved
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
6. AN ORDINANCE (SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS AND ADJUSTMENTS) AMENDING
2025 FINAL APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE 33-2024 TO ADJUST APPROPRIATIONS FOR
VARIOUS FUNDS AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (First Reading, Suspend Rules)
Motion –That the Rules be Suspended and the Ordinance is voted on tonight
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Mr. Perry _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
Motion –The Ordinance Be Approved
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Mr. Perry _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
7. A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF A THREE-YEAR
SUCCESSOR COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT NEGOTIATIED BETWEEN THE CITY
OF TRENTON, OHIO AND THE OHIO PATROLMENS BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATION PATROL
OFFICERS, AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING EXECUTION OF SAID COLLECTIVE
BARGAINING AGREEMENT, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (First Reading, Suspend
Rules)
a. Mayor Perry stated that by all accounts this was one of the smoothest labor
negotiations the City has had, expressed appreciation to everyone involved, and
noted that there was a request to suspend the rules requiring two readings and
proceed with a vote on the matter that evening.
Motion –That the Rules be Suspended and the Resolution is voted on tonight
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Mr. Croucher _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
Motion –The Resolution Be Approved
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(6)
(0)
(0)
(0)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
REPORTS
City Attorney, Nick Ziepfel- Mr. Ziepfel briefly stated that it had been a pleasure to serve
Councilman Perry, Councilwoman Jones, and Councilman Woodrey, expressed his
appreciation for the opportunity to work under them, noted that he would still be around,
offered congratulations, shared a lighthearted remark acknowledging the moment, and
concluded by wishing everyone a Merry Christmas.
Clerk of Council, Stanislav Beresford- Mr. Beresford thanked the Vice Mayor, Ms. Combs,
and Mr. Perry, stating it had been an honor to serve them, reflected on his initial interview
with the council as an intimidating but meaningful experience, expressed appreciation for
the opportunity to work with all members including Ms. Montgomery, noted that he looks
forward to serving alongside Ms. Butts, Mr. Profitt and Mr. Roark and congratulated Mr.
Croucher on being sworn in as Vice Mayor and the Mayor on their role, and closed by
wishing everyone happy holidays and safe travels.
City Manager, Marcos Nichols- City Manager Nichols echoed the appreciation expressed by
others, thanked Mayor Perry and former council members for their time and support,
reflected on how early one-on-one conversations and learning the community helped him
succeed in his role, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, welcomed incoming
council members, and concluded by requesting that council enter executive session to
consider confidential economic development information, discuss the potential purchase of
property for public purposes, and address the appointment of a public official.
Finance Director, Matthew Mesisklis- Mr. Mesisklis provided a business-related report
explaining that residents and businesses recently received letters from the Regional Income
Tax Authority (RITA) with account information and filing instructions, clarified that the City
will continue to maintain in-house tax staff to assist residents with questions, payment
plans, credits, and issues during the transition, emphasized that residents can still come to
City Hall for help and that no penalties will be imposed due to confusion or delays, and then
expressed his sincere appreciation to the council members who hired him, noting how the
opportunity changed his life, sharing a lighthearted anecdote about receiving the job offer
during an argument with his wife, reflecting on his service as challenging but humbling and
rewarding, acknowledging former Mayor Woodrey’s confidence in him, and closing by stating
his continued commitment to serving the City and working with new council members, with
Mayor Perry adding a brief anecdote about the council’s enthusiasm in offering him the
position.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
AUDIENCE OF COUNCIL
Mr. Croucher- Mr. Croucher thanked Deacon Larry Gronis for the prayer, praised Mr. Baker
and the public works team for their outstanding snow response, noting Trenton’s roads were
in better condition than surrounding cities, congratulated new parks board members and
council, wished Lieutenant Rosenfelder a happy birthday, thanked council for allowing the
Clerk of Council to attend OKI meetings and highlighted the benefits that collaboration has
brought to the city, expressed personal appreciation for fellow council members—especially
acknowledging their support, leadership, and teamwork—and closed by wishing everyone a
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Ms. Montgomery- Ms. Montgomery stated that it was a hard night for her and shared that she
was sitting with some of the best people in the world, expressing deep gratitude to city
leadership, council, and staff for the support she received during a difficult time in her life.
She reflected on questioning why God placed her on council before her accident, but
emphasized that she would never forget the encouragement she received from council and
the police department, specifically noting Chief Carr removing the computer from his vehicle
so he could pick her up once she was out of a wheelchair, as well as council members coming
to her home to help move furniture when she returned. She stated that serving on council
taught her that God placed her in this city for a purpose, noted that she was reelected and
would continue serving, expressed appreciation for the prayers offered by the deacon, and
shared a personal story about Chief Carr and Lieutenant Rosenfelder visiting her in the
hospital, where staff remarked that she was a miracle. She expressed her commitment to
working with incoming council members, reaffirmed that her goal is to work for the residents
of the community, thanked those assisting the homeless, reflected that she was not walking
at this time last year, and concluded by stating that she is grateful for the opportunity to serve
four more years, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Mr. Nichols- Mr. Nichols thanked everyone who has been attending meetings recently, noting
that it has been especially encouraging to see incoming council members and council
members-elect attending and learning about the city before taking office, emphasizing how
different it feels once you are seated at the table. He reflected on his own first meetings on
council with Jenni and Calvin, recalling early executive sessions involving lawsuits over the
water treatment plant and the Delaware Crossing subdivision, and how overwhelming that
initially felt, but stated that council has consistently handled challenges professionally. He
noted that while council members do not always agree, they are able to disagree respectfully
and remain friends outside of meetings, which he said is key to why the council has worked
so well. He shared that he served 16 years with Jenny and Calvin, took two years off, then
returned to council, and reflected on the many improvements made over the past 20 years,
including significant investments in parks, the amphitheater, a new firehouse, and modern
equipment. He acknowledged that not everyone likes growth or change, but stated that it is
hard to deny the progress the city has made compared to 20 years ago. He also highlighted
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
the careful and responsible use of COVID funds on long-lasting improvements, recognized
that council has faced criticism at times, and echoed Ms. Montgomery’s sentiment that the
people on council and staff are among the best he has worked with. He credited city staff for
making council’s job easier, noted the transition from volunteer to staffed fire and EMS
services and the growth of the police department, expressed that he will miss working closely
with long-serving members, and concluded by saying it has been a good ride and that he is
grateful for everything he has learned.
Mr. Perry- Mr. Perry thanked everyone for their support and shared a personal reflection, first
clarifying the annual tradition behind his sock monkey sweater, which he wears each
Christmas after being unable to fit into his 1977 Edgewood High School leisure suit. He spoke
about the importance of being visible and engaged in the community, noting how meaningful
it has been to see city staff and officials interacting with residents at local gathering places
and emphasized that this openness helps build trust. Mr. Perry expressed appreciation to
those who encouraged him to seek office after years of attending meetings as a resident and
thanked voters for the opportunity to continue serving. He recognized Mr. Ziegler for his work
on behalf of the community, particularly efforts supporting the homeless, and highlighted
volunteer work through EMA and the food pantry, describing it as eye-opening and deeply
impactful. He thanked the residents of Trenton and Edgewood, the Edgewood Ministerial
Association, and local businesses for supporting food donation initiatives that resulted in the
distribution of hundreds of grocery bags, dozens of Thanksgiving turkeys, and approximately
70–75 Christmas dinners for families in need, noting that no one seeking help should leave
hungry. Mr. Perry acknowledged recent disagreements within the community over
development projects, stated that disagreement is acceptable when conducted respectfully,
and affirmed that he always speaks publicly under his own name. He concluded by expressing
his love for the city, his intention to remain active and involved, and extended holiday wishes
to everyone.
Ms. Combs- Ms. Combs thanked all individuals who serve on the City’s boards and
commissions, noting that time is one of the most valuable contributions a person can make
to the community. She reflected on her initial involvement in city government, explaining that
her attendance at council meetings began out of concern for local issues while she was
raising her family and operating her own business. She credited her neighbor, Arnold Brown,
for encouraging her to run for City Council and for emphasizing the importance of representing
everyday residents. Ms. Combs stated that after prayer and consideration, she ran for office
and was elected among eleven candidates for four seats, an outcome she described as both
surprising and humbling. She discussed the City’s early challenges, including the lack of an
action plan following adoption of the comprehensive plan and a limited tax base at the time,
and highlighted the vision and long-term effort that led to the creation of the industrial park.
She noted that naming Arnold Brown Industrial Drive was a meaningful highlight of her
service, recognizing his dedication to the City and mentorship. Ms. Combs reflected on her 20
years of service, expressing pride in the progress made, appreciation for fellow council
members and staff, and confidence that the City is being left in capable hands. She
acknowledged that not all decisions are popular but emphasized the responsibility of Council
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
to consider the long-term good of the community. She concluded by stating that growth is
inevitable and should be managed thoughtfully, extended holiday wishes to the public, and
said it had been an honor to serve.
Vice Mayor Woodrey- Vice Mayor Woodrey thanked and congratulated those sworn in to the
Parks Board and expressed appreciation to all residents who serve on the City’s boards and
committees, noting the importance of citizen input and the personal time commitment
involved. He made lighthearted remarks regarding the long-referenced yellow leisure suit.
Vice Mayor Woodrey reflected on his initial tour of the City with City Manager Nichols and
noted that shortly after Mr. Nichols began employment, the Carvana project required
immediate attention, stating his belief that Mr. Nichols’ leadership was instrumental in
bringing the matter before Council. He reflected on the City’s long-term planning efforts,
including the 2006 purchase of farmland for the industrial park, acknowledging past criticism
while emphasizing the importance of long-range vision and thoughtful decision-making. Vice
Mayor Woodrey reminded those present that differing opinions exist within the community,
including a “silent majority” that may not attend meetings, and encouraged respect for
differing viewpoints. He offered holiday travel wishes, stating that for those traveling over the
river and through the woods to grandma’s house, residents should travel safely and be sure
to give their grandmother a hug, noting that grandmas do not last forever. He encouraged
incoming officials to approach their service with an open mind, persistence, and patience
during what can be an overwhelming learning process. Vice Mayor Woodrey thanked visitors
in attendance. Councilman Croucher recognized a Lakota School Board member present in
the audience and noted that the individual is the youngest school board member elected in
Butler County history. He thanked attendees for taking the time to participate in the meeting.
Mr. Perry noted his involvement in the hiring of Mr. Beresford and Mr. Mesisklis, stating both
have been valuable assets to the City and expressing appreciation for their service.
Mayor Perry- Mayor Perry began by reiterating his plea regarding the damage to the soccer
fields, asking that anyone with information—or responsibility—please come forward to help
repair the damage, emphasizing that turning oneself in is difficult but helping fix what was
destroyed matters most. He stressed that the fields are maintained by a nonprofit
organization relying on fees and donations, and that without community support the damage
could have a lasting impact, urging residents to come together to rebuild. He then reflected
emotionally on serving alongside his father, acknowledging their disagreements over the
years but emphasizing the respect he has gained and how much he has learned both growing
up and while serving on council together. He addressed Councilwoman Combs, thanking her
for being the calm in the storm and knowing exactly when to step in during tense moments,
noting how much he will miss that steady presence. He expressed deep appreciation for the
years of service given by the outgoing members, calling their contributions humbling and
something to be truly proud of. He shared that when first elected, he told a friend he could
not imagine anyone better suited to be mayor than Calvin, and that he has tried to live up to
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 18th, 2025 - 7:30 p.m.
that standard ever since. He concluded by thanking all three outgoing members for their
guidance, stating that he came into council young and scared, and that their advice helped
him grow not only as a council member but as a person, a debt he said he could never fully
repay.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
A. Prior to executive session Vice Mayor Woodrey expressed his appreciation for the
proclamation and the Key to the City, stating that both would be prominently
displayed in his home.
Motion – To go into executive session for the reasons noted by City Manager Nichols
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Ms. Montgomery _ Time: 9:43 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
Motion – Executive Session Be Adjourned
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Ms. Montgomery___ 2nd_____ Ms. Combs _ Time: 11:43 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
ADJOURNMENT
Motion - That the meeting be adjourned.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st__ Vice Mayor Woodrey___ 2nd_____ Ms. Combs _ Time: 11:44 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Woodrey, Montgomery, Nichols, Combs, Croucher, Perry
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
(7)
(0)
(0)
(0)
NOVEMBER 30, 2025 - CITY OF TRENTON FINANCIAL SNAPSHOT
Fund Name
Original Budget
(2025)
YTD Spent (2025)
011 GENERAL FUND
013 GENERAL DEBT SERVICE FUND
023 WATER DEBT SERVICE FUND
025 WATER IMPROVEMENTS FUND
026 WATER REVENUE FUND
027 WATER RATE STABILIZATION FUND
028 UTILITY CREDIT MEMO
036 WATER SYSTEM RESERVE FUND
050 UTILITY DEPOSIT TRUST FUND
066 SEWER REVENUE FUND
076 SEWER RESERVE FUND
096 REFUSE REVENUE FUND
102 STREET MAINTENANCE & REPAIR FUND
132 PARKS & RECREATION IMPROVEMENTS FUND
166 STORMWATER PHASE II FUND
192 COUNTY MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE FUND
202 MUNICIPAL MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE FUND
218 POLICE LEVY FUND
222 FIRE LEVY FUND
223 FIRE LEVY - CAPITAL & DEBT FUND
224 FIRE DEPOSIT ESCROW FUND
226 CASH BOND DEPOSIT FUND
234 GENERAL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND
250 GENERAL STABILIZATION RESERVE FUND
251 PROPERTY REHABILITATION FUND
252 MAYOR'S COURT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS FUND
253 TAX INCREMENT EQUIVALENT FUND
254 MUNICIPAL BUILDING PROJECT FUND
255 TIF - CARVANA INDUSTRIAL PARK
256 TIF- MAGNODE INDUSTRIAL PARK
402 LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND
432 FEDERAL ASSET FORFEITURE FUND
518 UNCLAIMED MONEYS--TRUST FUND
890 EMPLOYEE TERMINATION BENEFITS FUND
Grand Total
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
*Expenses Include only 2025 budgeted items
*Supplemental Budgets not reflected
*Mayor's Court Not yet reconciled
8,267,603
456,532
2,999,668
260,000
55,000
1,869,786
800,000
1,349,656
891,277
2,131,000
284,527
150,000
170,000
4,113,348
1,819,042
130,650
26,100
200,000
30,000
250,000
70,000
10,000
3,000
30,000
26,367,189
8,243,933
1,159,220
58,266
2,799,505
196,206
68,049
1,654,666
585,262
1,145,031
744,071
552,874
162,670
3,966,063
1,728,385
130,650
26,100
10,122,094
1,935
30,718
727,967
33,168
21,447
1,208
48,814
34,208,302
% Spend
Original Revenue
Estimate (2025)
100% $
13% $
0% $
93% $
0% $
0% $
75% $
124% $
88% $
73% $
85% $
83% $
26% $
57% $
0% $
0% $
96% $
95% $
100% $
100% $
0% $
5061% $
0% $
6% $
0% $
291% $
0% $
0% $
332% $
715% $
0% $
0% $
163% $
129.7% $
8,608,000
0
456,532
2,918,000
5,000
260,000
60,000
1,870,000
30,000
1,300,000
848,000
1,683,700
308,000
150,000
170,000
4,174,000
1,418,500
90,958
960,000
20,000
2,000
1,350,000
72,000
40,000
700
38,000
26,833,390
YTD Received
$
$
$
8,338,440
1,825,671
456,532
$
2,928,036
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
(4,910)
205,650
79,050
1,668,843
163,552
1,210,075
914,730
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,708,903
287,277
141,269
4,294,878
1,579,599
90,958
$
40,211,140
$
$
$
50,683
2,918
1,373,677
$
$
$
$
73,197
65,271
10,343
50
$
38,000
$ 67,713,832
% Received
CASH Remaining
97% $
$
100% $
0% $
100% $
0% $
-98% $
79% $
132% $
89% $
545% $
93% $
108% $
101% $
93% $
0% $
83% $
103% $
111% $
100% $
0% $
0% $
4189% $
0% $
253% $
146% $
102% $
0% $
102% $
163% $
0% $
0% $
0% $
100% $
$
3,658,069
666,451
398,267
300,000
988,792
300,000
20,047
400,463
258,978
1,033,816
1,790,692
511,901
880,163
1,902,371
372,503
261,783
435,347
789,577
106,962
35,681,950
948,366
175,490
218
4,703,759
169,179
119,109
14,857
1,117
6,293
146,888
57,043,409
CASH Policy
$
Notes
2,333,177
$1.8m Premium, 740k Issuance Cost
$
$
$
300,000
795,715
300,000
$
300,000 Water Tower Loan + Construction beginning
$
$
979,701
300,000
$
96,745
$
826,760
$32m Issuance
Missed $193k Tax Bill
$
$
143,361
6,375,459
MAJOR REVENUES
INCOME TAX
AGO DELINQUENT TAX COLLECTIONS
PROPERTY TAX / PILOT / ROLLBACK
WATER SERVICE
SEWER SERVICE
REFUSE SERVICE
EMS TRANSPORT
INTEREST
GAS TAXES
VEHICLE REGISTRATION (STATE, CITY)
TOTAL - MAJOR SOURCES
2024 YTD
2025 YTD
$
3,733,284 $
3,789,036
$
2,025,890 $
1,933,228
$
4,171,615 $
4,193,696
$
2,147,993 $
2,179,096
$
1,657,264 $
1,668,449
$
1,142,294 $
1,210,075
$
337,188 $
389,541
$
749,934 $
1,038,393
$
643,001 $
658,550
$
167,344 $
218,318
$
16,608,463 $
17,278,382
2025 Rev. Est. %The
Rec.City of Trenton has several funds, dedicated to various purposes of local
governance. These funds have distinct revenues which they are allowed to collect,
$
4,300,000
113.5%
and equally-distinct categories of spending that each fund can be used to provide for
$
1,800,000 projects and93.1%
city operations. As good stewards of public finances, the City has
$
4,123,000 policies within
98.3%
its various funds to maintain minimum balances based on spending
$
2,325,000 trends.#REF!
These policies allow Trenton's operations to remain efficient and intact even
$
1,825,000 in times of crisis.
83.8%Ample reserves also contribute the City's respectable Bond rating of
promotes access to low-interest debt to complete large-scale projects
$
1,300,000 Aa1, which107.4%
debt burden. Reserves also allow for the collection of interest revenue
$
290,000 without undue
74.4%
$
600,000 to further improve
57.8% the City's financial security. The City holds its funds in StarOhio Ohio's Local Goverment Investment Pool - which operates as a liquid money-market
$
680,000
103.3%
fund. The City also invests in securities such as CDs, Municipal Bonds, Treasury
$
255,000 Bonds, and116.8%
Commercial Paper for more aggressive yields with its investment advisor,
$ 17,498,000 RedTree Financial.
101.3% To maximize returns, funds are held in common with investment
advisors and then interest earnings are allocated to the City's Capital Improvement
Fund.
Bank
Statement Balance
1st Financial
StarOhio
Redtree Financial
Huntington
TOTAL BANK STATEMENT BALANCE
TOTAL DEPOSITS-IN-TRANSIT
TOTAL BOOK FUND BALANCE
Month-end credit memos available
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
TOTAL MONTH-END UNCLEARED CHECKS
$
NET DIFFERENCE (Bank over Book)
$
1,545,225
10,804,730
45,081,753
404,655
57,836,363
28,896.78
57,043,409
20,047.47
Month Interest
$
$
$
$
813,106.01 *See Edenred 11/30 ACHs
% Difference
28,792
Audit Limit %
0.05%
Miller-Valentine Design-Build Trenton Community and Municipal Complex
Invoice Description
Interviews with staff, facility drawings, virtual design
Facility Drawings, Staff Interviews, Site review
Department Interviews, Design Alterations
Internal Design + Securty Specifics
Internal Design + Security + Pool specifics
HVAC + Security + Furnishing design
Electrical + Jail + Furnishing Design
Electrical + Security Design
Mobilization and Permiting Prep
Mobilization and Permitting
Total Spent as of 11/30/25
Fund 234 - Capital Improvement
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
As recommended by the Ohio Auditor of State, these statements are prepared
monthly and provided to the public for accountability purposes
36,551
64,032
1,061
101,644
Amount
99,103
322,085
74,327
486,617
347,583
208,551
208,550
69,516
69,517
703,505
2,589,354
Pay Date
2/12/2025
2/27/2025
3/25/2025
4/24/2025
5/31/2025
6/25/2025
7/31/2025
8/29/2025
9/30/2025
10/31/2025
7%
City of Trenton
2026 Operating Budget
Municipal Budgets
Guideline of spending and estimate
of revenues for the calendar year
Policy document to show the City’s
priorities and projects
Fund Accounting
The City has 31 different active funds where various revenues are deposited
Each fund has limited uses, set by law
Trenton’s major Fund categories are:
Water
Sewer
Streets
Police Levy
Fire Levy
General
Capital / TIF
Budget Approval Process
Staff drafts budget for
each fund by line-item
expenditures
Management reviews with
department heads and
presents to committees of
council
Revised budget is
presented to Council atlarge for approval by fund
and expense category
Budget is entered into
accounting software
serves as the city’s plan of
spending for the next year
Budget Policies
Funds must end the year within their fund
reserve balance policy
The City Budget must balance – that is, revenues
plus cash must be equal to or greater than
expenditures in each operating fund
It is a best practice that only non-recurring
project expenses in excess of revenues are
charged to reserve balances
Any unbudgeted expense each year must be
approved by Council via supplemental
appropriations
Signed ordinance must be provided to County
Auditor, along with supplemental budgets
throughout the year, and certified resources
Financial Metrics
General Obligation Bond Rating: Aa2
Water Enterprise Bond Rating: A1
Affected by Management Policies, Audit
Reports, Demographics, Economic
Development, Outstanding debt, Revenue
Streams, and reserve balances
Trenton received an upgrade in both G.O.
Bond and Water Bond rating in 2025
Moody’s noted successful audits, Budget
Book award, strong income tax growth, and
economic development prospects were
reasons for the upgrade
Upgrades result in decreased borrowing
costs for large projects
Revenues By Fund – Including Transfers
2026 All Funds Expected $35.1m Breakdown by Fund
2025 All Funds Expected $66.9m Breakdown
by Fund
Water Fund,
$3,008,000 , 4%
Other, non-debt
$9,461,119 , 14%
General Fund,
$8,608,000 , 13%
Other, non-debt
$6,463,356 , 34%
Sewer Fund,
$1,870,000 , 3%
Refuse
Collection
Fund,
$1,300,000 , 2%
Street
Maintenance
Fund, $848,000
, 1%
General Fund,
$6,488,500 15%
Fire Levy Fund
$1,538,500 , 4%
Police Levy Fund
$4,407,800 , 15%
Park Fund
$1,710,000 , 3%
Water Fund,
$11,318,300 , 26%
Stormwater Fund
Stormwater
$315,000 , 1%
Fund $308,000 ,
Park Fund
0%
$453,200 , 1%
Bond Issuance
+ Premium
(Capital Fund)
$33,825,671 ,
51%
Fire Levy Fund
$1,625,000 , 2%
Police Levy
Fund
$4,290,000 , 6%
Street Maintenance
Fund $903,000 , 2%
Refuse Collection
Sewer Fund
Fund $1,360,000 ,
$1,852,200 , 4%
3%
Revenues - Major Changes
All outstanding BANs have been paid in full
$45k decrease in property tax revenue due to Local Tax Rollbacks
RID Revenues stable due to new builds offsetting tax cut
Magnode TIF Increase $60k due to 2025 late payment
$8.6m in financing revenue from OWDA Loan
$1.3m decrease in Parks Transfer due to project carryover from 2025
Budgeted 15% decline in income tax, due to 1 month delay in RITA
collections and transition. Slowdown in delinquent collections
Increase of PD Transfer to $3.36m, which is the new status quo Police
Department need. Expected to grow 5% per year
Decreased investment revenue due to falling interest rates
Expenses By Fund
2025 All Funds Original Budget $26.4M Breakdown by Fund
Tax Increment
Fund, $250,000 ,
General Capital
1%
Improvement,
Other, $2,191,281 ,
$200,000 , 1%
8%
Fire Levy,
$1,819,042 , 7%
Tax Increment
Fund
$2,081,249 ,
5%
General Fund,
$8,267,603 , 31%
Police Levy,
,113,348 , 16%
Water Funds,
$2,999,668 , 11%
Stormwater
Phase II Fund,
$284,527 , 1%
Park Fund,
$2,131,000 , 8%
Street MTC and
Repair Fund,
$891,277 , 4%
Refuse
Collection Fund,
$1,349,656 , 5%
Sewer Funds,
$1,869,786 , 7%
Capital
Improvement
Fund
$2,323,000 , 6%
Fire Levy
Fund
$1,958,637 ,
5%
2026 All Funds $38.9M Breakdown by Fund
Other
$2,592,473 , 7%
General Fund
$6,951,127 ,
18%
Police Levy
Fund
$4,554,717 ,
11%
Stormwater
Fund $327,940
, 1%
Park Fund
Street
Refuse
$1,113,600 , Maintenance
Collection
3%
Fund
Fund
$1,302,913 , 3%
$1,617,848 , 4%
Water Funds
$11,800,310 ,
31%
Sewer Funds
$2,241,108 ,6 %
Staff Budget Devoted to Parks
Maintenance (2026)
Public Works staff is paid primarily out of the General, Water, Sewer,
and Street Funds
Significant time is still spent on Parks Maintenance, amounting to 3
staff members, 2 days a week for mowing 8 months of the year, plus
1 hour daily for basic checks, cleanup, and maintenance. Event
work averages 20 man-hours per month
Aside from this, All public works staff are expected to work various
City events throughout the year
Public Works Pay: $2,125,303 for ~26,960 hours + payroll expenses
2390 hours of Parks work/year = 8.9% of PW Time on Parks = $189k
per year on parks maintenance
Expenses – Major Points
General Fund
Budgeted Capital Fund Transfer $12,000
Budgeted Parks Transfer $360,000
Reworked Health Insurance plans for zero cost increase. Status quo budgeted staffing.
$505,000 increase in budgeted transfer to Police Department
Retaining $300k transfer to Fire Levy Fund
Fire Levy
Budget for 5 on-duty staff at all times, with competitive raises of 3%
Equipment costs will continue to be offset by aggressive grant applications
RID/TIF/Park Funds
Splashpad and Founders’ Electrical paid from 2025 POs
$500k Home Avenue Park redesign, $300k Community Park Repaving
$35k Dog Park, $175k Community Events, $30k Park Supply Building
TIFs used for road improvements and debt service on Fire Station and Municipal Complex
Capital Projects Fund
$900k Revenue from investments
$32m encumbrance from Municipal Complex and Infrastructure
continues from the 2025 budget
$500,000 additional placeholder for City Building-related needs
$425,000 for Water Meter replacements
$2,000,000 for Public Works building
$200k for Garage and related small capital items
$200k for dilapidated property purchases
Utilities – Fund Health and Rates
Utility Funds – 2026 Resources vs Expenses
$5,000,000
Expected Inflation 2025: 3.0%
2026 Base Increase: 0.0%
$4,500,000
$4,000,000
$3,500,000
$1,806,037
$2,826,021
$3,000,000
$2,500,000
$2,000,000
Rate increase above 8,000
Gal: 3.0%
$452,607
$42,650
$128,515
$303,000
$425,882
$1,500,000
$1,000,000
$2,455,000
$1,977,281
$1,852,000
$1,871,458
Sewer
Resources
Sewer
Expenses
$500,000
$-
Garbage Collection: $1
increase, due to Rumpke
contract
Water
Resources
Revenue
Water
Expenses
Cash On-Hand
Operating Exp
Capital Exp
$1,360,000
Garbage
Resources
$1,617,848
Garbage
Expenses
Debt Service
Water Tower Financing /
Construction excluded from
charts
*Cash On-Hand Denotes
October 31, 2025 Balances
Utilities Expenses – Major Changes
Water Fund - $835k Decrease
$500k Water advance return has been repaid
$244k decrease in personnel expenses (Health insurance, some re-allocations, moving cashouts to Fund
890)
$108k decrease in Capital Fund Transfer
$167k decrease in water meter supplies
$425k in new water meter / equipment needs paid from Capital Improvement Fund
Water Capital Fund to pay for tower and potential well expansion
Sewer Fund - $167k Decrease
$74k decrease in personnel expenses
$160k decrease in treatment contract costs (13 months paid in 2025)
$200k increase in general operating costs (Maintenance, utilities, prof serv, etc)
$20k increase in administrative transfers
Refuse Collection - $88k Increase
$60k increase due to Rumpke Contract
$3k increase in personnel; $15k increase in supplies/service allocation
Fire Levy Operations: Major Points
Budget for 5-person shifts at all times
3% base Cost of Living Adjustment for all Fire Staff, 25-75c steps above that.
Total Personnel Budget Increase: $69k (4.8%) up from total 2025 personnel
budget
Continuing $300k GF Subsidy, and payment of Bonds with $129k of RID Funds.
Net Budgetary Deficit: $335,550. This will draw down existing fund balance.
Due to new billing software and transport volume, EMS Revenue
budgeted at $100k (34%) more than 2025 original budget
Due to County Homestead increase, the levy will collect ~$23k (3%) less
than otherwise
Fire Department is on-track to sustain 5-person shifts through 2026 without
new levy need. Grants, RIDs, and Economic Development will continue
extending the life of the current levy.
Fire Levy – 2026 (Contd.)
$60k for Stryker equipment (Cardiac Monitors) and service contract
$13k for new Knox Box systems (whole fleet)
Electronically-integrated Field Ops software
$15k vehicle maintenance
$6300 for training – greater focus than previous years
Quint Ladder Truck nearing the end of service life – Potential $1.5m
cost looming
Fire Levy – Planned Operational Deficit
2026 Budget - $2.00m
Personnel
Services ,
$1,524,937 , 73%
Capital and Debt ,
$234,700 , 11%
2026 Fire Dept Funding- $1.67m
Levy and
Rollback
$796,000
General
Fund
Transfer
$300,000
Other
Expenditures ,
$327,200 , 16%
Grants
$45,000
Misc. $7,500
10/31/25 Fire Levy Balance: $853,894
12/31/26 Expected Balance: $427,450
Transport
Charges
$390,000
RID Contribution
$128,700
Levy vs Funding – Larger Shifts
The Current Fire Levy was passed in 2012 at 4.5 Mills. It is now
effectively 2.47 mills (res/ag)
Millage is automatically reduced on Voted Levies when home
values increase
Despite Trenton’s mandated 36% property valuation increase, this
levy did not collect additional funds
Sustainability 5-Man Part-Time
$1,200,000
$952,185
$1,000,000
$978,538
$853,894
$800,000
Total Cash Year-End
Chart reflects status quo
revenue and inflating
expenses
$427,450
$600,000
$400,000
$12,450
$200,000
$-
2023
2024
2025
2026
2027
2028
$(200,000)
$(472,550)
$(400,000)
$(600,000)
Year
2029
Police Department - Balanced Through
General Fund
2026 Estimated Funding – $4.4m
Impound Lot
+ Misc,
$32,800 , 1%
Police Levy Property Tax
and
Homestead,
$930,000 ,
21%
2025 Police and Dispatch Budget – $4.5m
Grants and
Reimbursements,
$85,000 , 2%
Personnel
Services
$3,634,201 , 81%
Other
Expenditures
$920,516 , 19%
General Fund
$3,360,000 ,
76%
2016 Millage: 5.25 ---
2025 Millage: 2.89 (Res/Ag)
Police Department – Projections
2025 GF Subsidy: $3,180,000 – Operational Need
2026 GF Subsidy Budget: $3,360,000 – Operational Need
Future Operational need expected to increase 5% (~$220k) annually
2025 Is a contract negotiation year with 2026 implementation
Potential state-mandated 6% OP&F City-funded increase
HB 280 would require $95k /yr additional employer cost for pensions
Police Fund – Major Changes
6 Total Full-Time Dispatchers (budgeted from 2025)
2 Vehicle purchases 2026 (standard schedule)
Additional PT Police Specialist
Prisoner Boarding: $7k decrease
Personnel budget increase 2025 – 2026: $65,423 (1.8%)
NO INCREASE to Health insurance premiums
Moving City to High-Deductible plan with employee HSA Contributions
2025 included Retention and Hiring incentives
Shifting cashout expenses to Fund 890
Total Budget increase 2025 - 2026: $111,439 (2.5%)
General Fund Health – Deficit
2026 GENERAL FUND REVENUES
$6.50M
Building Permits,
Other, $396,500
$100,000 , 2%
, 6%
Real Estate Tax
/ Rollback,
$880,000 , 13%
Local Gov Fund
Total, $310,000
, 5%
Parks Transfer,
$360,000.00 ,
5%
Fire Levy
Transfer,
$300,000.00 ,
4%
2026 GENERAL FUND EXPENSES
Other Special
$6.95M
Approp,
$30,000.00 ,
0%
Personnel ,
$1,159,143.00
, 17%
City Income Tax
$4,820,000 , 74%
AGO Delinquent
tax estimated
$1,200,000
Police Levy
Transfer,
$3,360,000.00
42%
Operating ,
$1,645,884.00
, 24%
Capital ,
$66,100.00 ,
1%
Upcoming Capital Projects included in
2026 Budget or Supplementals
The following items are attributed to the City’s Capital Funds:
1.5m Gallon Water Storage Tank ($8.8m construction cost)
$10.2m 3.7% OWDA subsidized 30-year loan
Annual payments ~ $383,610, beginning 2027
$2,294,840 in Paving
$1,228,039 Federal Grant for Hamilton-Trenton and E State Street
$409,603 - $964,603 OPWC Loan for N 1st, 2nd, Union Reconstruction
$555,000 in local paving contribution
Wayne-Madison Road engineering and widening
Currently-unknown cost. Will be requested through Supplemental
Appropriation and paid by RIDs.
All-Funds Total Budget
Potential additional loss of ~2% property tax / PILOT ($84k) Due to HB 186 Passage
Expected Revenues: $ 35,122,856
Transfers/Advances-in: $5,642,656
Will submit financing and property sale revenue as-needed in 2026
Budgeted Expenses: $38,864,922
Transfers/Advances-out:
$5,642,656
Supplemental budgets will be submitted for Water and Infrastructure projects
sale or PILOT revenue comes in
Net Draw-down: -$3,742,066
Old debt Reduction: $461,496
Subject to change due to project/grant timeline:
Year-End 2026 All Funds Balance: $17,700,000 (Est.)
Year-End 2026 General Fund Balance: $2,980,000 (Est.)
when
City Council Work Session Agenda MINUTES
January 8th, 2026
6:30 pm
1. Public Comment
a. Mayor Perry called the January 8, 2026 Council Work Session to order and
welcomed those in attendance. He noted that public comment would normally
begin the meeting, but stated that Council first needed to discuss an
appointment to the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) in order to provide
instruction on duties prior to the Board’s next meeting. Mayor Perry invited
any individuals who wished to speak and would not be present at the regular
Council meeting to come forward at that time. He requested that those
planning to attend the regular Council meeting wait to provide comments
then, as public comment would be available. No members of the public came
forward to speak.
2. Service Director, Brad Baker
a. Regarding authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with the
Kliengers Group for the construction design and survey work for a total cost of
$81,000.00
i. Service Director Brad Baker brought forward a motion requesting
authorization for engineering services related to the Hamilton–Trenton
Road paving project. He explained that funding has been received
through OKI to resurface the roadway from State Street to the west
side of Edgewood Drive. The project would include a three-inch mill and
fill with base repairs and would be completed in partnership with
ODOT. Mr. Baker noted that the engineering scope would also address
existing guardrail, including updates to ensure compliance or removal
if not warranted, with determinations to be made jointly with the
project engineer and a state inspector. He further stated that the
project includes installation of pavement markings upon completion.
Mr. Baker also took the opportunity to commend Public Works staff for
progress in reducing water loss, reporting a reduction of approximately
ten percent over the past three months. He added that additional
meter replacements have occurred since the most recent data was
provided to the Finance Director and expressed optimism that an
additional one-and-a-half to two percent reduction may be achieved.
He emphasized that staff continues to work diligently on this effort.
b. Regarding authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with Robinson
Fence Company for the purchase and installation of 496 feet of guardrails
and one 12 foot gate at Trentons Community Park for a total cost of
$23,800.00
i. Service Director Brad Baker presented a proposal for the installation of
guardrail at Community Park surrounding the entire parking lot. He
explained that the guardrail would encompass three sides facing the
park, with four-foot pedestrian openings at each corner and a twelvefoot gate where the sidewalk leads to the park shelters. Mr. Baker
stated that the project is intended as a first step toward improving
safety around the park, including the shelters, playground areas, and
the splash pad currently under construction. He noted that Robinson
Fence submitted the lowest quote and has completed numerous
projects for the City in the past. In response to questions, Mr. Baker
clarified that the installation would consist of standard steel guardrail
designed to prevent vehicle access, with the guardrail placed inside
the sidewalk to clearly separate pedestrians from vehicular traffic. He
added that the proposal is also intended to help prevent incidents
similar to recent damage at the soccer fields.
3. I.T. Director, Lon Green
a. Discuss Motion
i. Regarding, authorizing the City Manager to enter into a purchase
agreement with cabling specialist, inc. For the purpose of designing,
providing hardware, and installing fiber optic from the public works
garage to south water tower, in an amount not to exceed $169,395.00
1. IT Director Lon Green addressed Council and reported on three
related items, beginning with the proposed extension of the
City’s fiber network to the new water tower. He stated that staff
recommends continuing to utilize Cabling Specialists, noting
that the firm currently holds contracts for fiber installation at
the City Building and Public Works Garage and would extend the
fiber connection from the garage to the water tower. Mr. Green
explained that extending fiber to the water tower is critical to
operations, as it will allow the City to monitor the facility directly
from the water treatment plant. The connection would support
security cameras accessible from the City Building, enable
future networking capabilities such as selling water at that
location, and allow for controlled access through electronic fobs
for doors and gates. He emphasized that all of these systems
would be managed through the fiber connection, making the
extension an important infrastructure component.
ii. Regarding, authorizing the city manager to enter into a purchase
agreement with the vendor submitting the lowest responsible quote for
14 laptop computers in an amount not to exceed $40,000
iii. Regarding authorizing the city manager to enter into a purchase
agreement with the vendor submitting the lowest responsible quote for
14 desktop computers and in an amount not to exceed $20,000.
1. I.T. Director Lon Green continued his report by addressing the
City’s planned purchase of computers, including desktops and
laptops. He stated that Council members are scheduled to
receive new laptops in 2026, along with four laptops for the
Police Department and additional laptops for other
departmental uses. Mr. Green explained that police laptops
must be more rugged due to wear and tear from use in patrol
vehicles, while desktop computers are typically purchased as
all-in-one units. He advised Council that computer prices have
been increasing due to shortages of memory chips, processors,
and video processing components, and that vendors had
recently notified him that prior quotes were no longer valid. As a
result, staff made adjustments to remain within the approved
budget. Mayor Perry asked whether Council members who do
not frequently use City-issued laptops could opt out of receiving
one. Mr. Green responded that this would be acceptable and
could be coordinated privately. Mr. Mesisklis then asked about
the City’s existing spools of fiber. Mr. Green explained that the
City purchased fiber approximately 20 years ago with the intent
of running its own network. Some contractors have used the
City-owned fiber on past projects, while others declined due to
its limited applicability. He noted that additional fiber remains
stored at the Public Works Garage and may be used for future
projects; however, City staff are not trained to install fiber, and
installation must be completed by qualified contractors.
4. Fire Chief Brian, Sebald
a. Regarding, authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with
Stryker, for the purpose of purchasing 3 new LIFPAK 35’s and 4 new AED’s at
the quoted cost of $58,218.39
i. Fire Chief Brian Sebald addressed Council and presented a request
regarding the purchase of emergency medical equipment. Chief Sebald
stated that the Fire Department is seeking approval to purchase three
LifePak 35 cardiac monitors and four new AEDs through an interestfree five-year payment plan. He explained that the department
currently operates multiple monitors of different models and is working
to standardize and update its equipment. Chief Sebald noted that the
proposal also includes preventative maintenance for the department’s
Stryker cots, Stryker load systems, and LUCAS devices. No action was
taken at this time.
b. Regarding authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with
Vogelpohl for a total quoted cost of $45,671.17
i. Fire Chief Brian Sebald presented a second item regarding the
purchase of fire gear. Chief Sebald stated that the purchase is
included in the current budget and will be funded through the FEMA
Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG). He noted that the equipment
will be paid for entirely with grant funding.
5. Clerk of Council, Stanislav Beresford
a. Discuss Boards and Commissions
i. Mr. Beresford, presented a motion to approve the annual
appointments of Council members to various boards, commissions,
and committees as listed in Exhibit A. He explained that each year
Council members are assigned to different boards and committees
and noted that discussion could occur either during the work session
or at the regular Council meeting. Council agreed to defer discussion of
the appointments until the regular Council meeting to allow sufficient
time, particularly in light of the upcoming Board of Zoning Appeals
discussion
b. Discuss city purchase of real property located in City of Trenton, Ohio
i. Mr. Beresford, addressed Council regarding the City’s recent purchase
of property for water utility purposes. He explained that the transaction
included administrative extensions to allow completion of the Phase I
Environmental Site Assessment, which was received on November 20,
2025. Following receipt of the Phase I report, the City proceeded with
closing on the property. Mr. Beresford noted that he would review the
related correspondence in more detail later. Mayor Perry clarified that
Council had requested an explanation regarding the delays associated
with the property acquisition. He stated that the extended timeline
resulted in a situation Council was not comfortable with and requested
an accounting of how the delays occurred so Council could be fully
informed. Mr. Beresford indicated that he would address those details
in his report.
6. City Manager, Marcos Nichols
a. Executive Session Request
i. To consider the confidential information related to marketing plans,
specific business strategy, production techniques, trade secrets, or
personal financial statements of an application for economic
development assistance and to confer with legal counsel.
ii. To discuss pending or imminent court action with the public body’s
legal counsel.
iii. To discuss the appointment of a public official
7. Council comments and questions.
a. Mayor Perry - Mayor Perry asked City Manager Nichols about a recent road
repair performed at a corner location that had been discussed previously,
specifically seeking clarification on why the work had taken place. Mr. Nichols
responded that his understanding was that recent road repairs on Clara Drive,
from Roger Street to State Street, involved transverse crack repairs, and
noted that for any additional details he would defer to Service Director Baker.
Mayor Perry then clarified that the area in question was Clara Drive from State
Route 73 to Roger Street. Service Director Baker explained that the work was
part of the 2025 local paving project and consisted of transverse crack
repairs. He stated that sections of pavement were cut out, generally three feet
wide (with some sections larger), to remove bumps and improve ride quality.
He further noted that this work would facilitate future paving by completing
necessary base repairs in advance. Mr. Baker added that similar transverse
crack repairs were also completed on Ginger Ridge Road, Dry Ridge Road, and
Pine Knoll Drive
Motion – To go into executive session for the reasons noted.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery_ Time: 7:44 PM
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
Motion - That executive session be adjourned, and the meeting be adjourned.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Mr. Roark ____ 2nd Ms. Butts
Time: 7:25 PM
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
*Agenda is subject to change
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Floyd Croucher Ray Nichols
Ryan Perry
Mayor
Austin Proffitt Ken Roark
Vice Mayor
Council Member
Council Member
Marci Butts
Council Member Council Member
Sharon Montgomery
Council Member
CALL TO ORDER
PRAYER
1. Keith Risner
ROLL CALL
Present: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Roark, Butts, Montgomery, (6)
Absent: Nichols
(1)
Motion –To Excuse Councilman Nichols For Reasons Known To Council.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
PRESENTATIONS
1. Social Media Archive Demonstration
a. Mr. Beresford provided an overview and brief demonstration of the City’s
newly launched social media archive, which was added to the City
website earlier that day. He explained that the archive captures and
preserves content posted to the City’s Facebook and YouTube pages, as
well as other related City social media accounts. Mr. Beresford described
two ways the public can access the archive through the City website. First,
users may utilize the website search function by entering a keyword (such
as “banners”) and selecting the social media results, which redirects
users to the separate social media archive site. Second, users may
navigate directly through the website’s “Find” section by selecting “Social
Media Archiving,” which provides information about the archive and links
to the searchable platform. Mr. Beresford noted that, based on his
review, archived content generally dates back to 2019, depending on
when items were originally posted. He further explained that City Council
meeting videos are now consistently posted to YouTube due to
Facebook’s policy of deleting videos after 30 days, and that the archive
allows users to search and view both Facebook and YouTube content
related to City Council meetings. Mr. Beresford stated that information
about the archive had also been posted on the City’s Facebook page
earlier that day. Following the presentation, Council thanked Mr.
Beresford and expressed appreciation for his efforts to improve
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
transparency, expand access to City communications, and make archived
content more accessible to the public.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Minutes of the December 18th, 2025, Council Work Session.
2. Minutes of the December 18th, 2025, Regular Council Meeting.
Motion –To Table The Minutes Till The January 22nd Meeting
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
CORRESPONDENCE
AUDIENCE OF PUBLIC
Barry Blankenship First Street - Barry Blankenship, First Street, addressed Council
during public comment. He welcomed and congratulated the newly seated Council
members and clarified that his remarks were not directed toward them, noting they
were still becoming familiar with ongoing matters. Mr. Blankenship stated that he
attended a Planning Commission meeting in Wilmington, Ohio, where a proposed data
center project was tabled pending additional information and studies. He referenced
discussions regarding data center development statewide and emphasized that
property ownership alone does not constitute project approval. He described
information presented in Wilmington concerning the scale of the proposed facilities,
including the number of buildings and backup generators, and raised concerns about
potential noise, generator testing schedules, emissions, and environmental impacts. He
asked whether similar issues were being evaluated for the proposed development in
Trenton, including the type of backup power planned, noise mitigation measures,
generator cycling schedules, and the findings of any environmental impact studies. Mr.
Blankenship stated that if such information was not yet available, he believed additional
studies were necessary and requested that Council delay further action until more
information was provided and the newly elected Council members had sufficient time to
become fully informed. Mr. Blankenship also raised concerns regarding traffic impacts
associated with the proposed development. He referenced discussions with City staff
about increasing traffic and asked whether a specific parcel of land could be used as a
secondary ingress and egress point for construction and heavy truck traffic. City staff
responded that the parcel in question was intended to serve as a secondary ingress and
egress and that any traffic, site plans, or construction impacts would be addressed
during future Planning Commission review. City Manager Nichols clarified that the
upcoming Planning Commission agenda item involved a lot combination request only,
and that traffic and site plan details were not under consideration at that time. Mayor
noted that the City had not yet received final site plans, that the project had not reached
a stage requiring Council action, and that there was no legislation currently before
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Council to table. Mayor further noted that grading and soil movement approvals fall
under Butler County jurisdiction until such time as the project advances to City Planning
Commission review.
Bobby Angst 6573 Road - Mr. Angst thanked Council for the opportunity to speak and
expressed appreciation for Council’s efforts in working with Prologis to bring the
proposed project to the City. He stated that he represents Electrical Workers Local 648,
which serves Butler and Warren Counties, and noted that approximately 87 members of
the local union reside within the City of Trenton. He explained that the electrical trade
requires completion of an apprenticeship program and identified Edgewood High School
as a strong feeder school for that program. Mr. Angst shared that he is a graduate of
Edgewood High School and was accompanied by a first-year apprentice. Mr. Angst
stated that members of his union are currently working on data center projects
throughout Ohio and surrounding states, and emphasized that similar projects will be
built regardless of location. He expressed support for the project being located in
Trenton so local workers can work in their own community, pay local taxes, and spend
money locally. He estimated the project investment to exceed one billion dollars, with
approximately 20–25 percent representing wages and benefits, noting that multiple
skilled trades would be involved. He further stated that, beyond construction, such
facilities require ongoing maintenance and staffing, resulting in continued economic
activity and city income tax revenue. Mr. Angst concluded by stating that, while he
acknowledged community questions about data centers, he was speaking on behalf of
construction workers and trade members and described the project as a significant
economic opportunity.
Angie Markham 600 South First – Ms. Markham addressed Council during public
comment regarding transparency, communication, and community engagement related
to the proposed data center project. Ms. Markham asked whether recent statements
about improving transparency were a Council-wide initiative or an individual effort by the
mayor; the mayor responded that he could only speak for himself. Ms. Markham stated
that she first attended a City Council meeting on November 20 and asked where
residents could access data, studies, and information related to the project. She stated
that at that time she was told no studies had been conducted, plans were not finalized,
and there was no information available to share. She noted that similar responses have
continued to be provided. She referenced prior discussions regarding water usage
estimates originating from Hillyard and stated that she accepted that information in
good faith. Ms. Markham expressed concern that grading activity began prior to
residents receiving notice and stated that many residents became aware only after
observing activity or seeing comments on social media. She referenced a Facebook post
by Mr. Nichols stating that grading permits had been issued by Butler County and that
building permits had not yet been approved. Ms. Markham questioned why this
information was not shared earlier at the November meeting and asked whether Council
members were aware of the grading permits at that time. Mayor note that he personally
confirmed grading activity after contacting Mr. Mesisklis, who visited the site. Mayor
indicated that neither the City nor Butler County communicated the grading approval to
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
residents. Ms. Marham questioned how residents could have confidence in the process
if information is not shared or if residents are not informed that approvals may occur
through Butler County rather than the City. Ms. Markham asked what steps would be
taken moving forward to improve communication and ensure residents understand
where information originates, including which entities are responsible for various
approvals. Mayor responded that the City did not receive notice from Butler County
regarding the grading activity and acknowledged that the City cannot compel the County
to provide such notice. Ms. Markham reiterated that residents are not aware of
jurisdictional distinctions and requested clearer guidance on where information should
be sought in the future. Ms. Markham concluded by requesting improved proactive
communication regarding approvals handled by entities outside City control and
thanked Council for the opportunity to speak.
Danielle Huston - Danielle Huston addressed Council, stating that she does not speak
frequently at meetings due to the close-knit nature of the community and concerns that
unresolved issues can divide residents. She expressed concern that recent events and
discussions surrounding development, particularly the data center and solar farm, have
begun to create visible tension and division within the community. Ms. Huston
emphasized that residents rely on Council to provide clear, informed information and
accountability, acknowledging that this responsibility is difficult but essential. Ms.
Huston stated that while disagreements are inevitable, residents need to understand
what is occurring upfront, who is accountable, and how decisions are being made. She
raised concerns about potential reductions in municipal authority due to PUCO
involvement and questioned how Council anticipates addressing those challenges. She
acknowledged the argument that development may have been inevitable but stressed
that residents feel unheard and frustrated by the pace and way changes are occurring.
Ms. Huston noted that while growth can bring jobs and economic benefits, the process
has created community conflict, with neighbors disagreeing and relationships becoming
strained. She stated she is neither for nor against development in principle, but
expressed opposition to how the process has unfolded, stating that it is damaging
community cohesion. She referenced challenges experienced by the Edgewood
community in recent years, including decreased community engagement and trust, and
cautioned that similar patterns may emerge locally if concerns are not addressed. Ms.
Huston asked how the City intends to rebuild trust and improve communication,
emphasizing that optics matter, particularly because the City previously owned and sold
the property in question. Ms. Huston requested clarity regarding what authority the City
does and does not have, particularly in relation to PUCO and Butler County, and asked
what actions residents could take to support transparency and accountability, including
potential outreach to Butler County officials. She raised concerns regarding
accountability related to tax abatements and employment commitments tied to previous
developments. Ms. Huston asked whether comprehensive feasibility studies, financial,
environmental, and economic—have been completed for both the data center and the
solar farm. City Manager Nichols responded that the City has not contracted with
outside firms for independent feasibility studies and explained that submitted site plans
and studies from developers are reviewed internally by staff and the City’s contracted
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
engineering professionals, with revisions made as necessary before consideration by
the Planning Commission. Ms. Huston expressed concern that reliance on developerprovided information may not fully address community impacts and requested that
Council consider engaging an independent third party to conduct feasibility studies. She
emphasized that the ongoing frustration, defensiveness, and conflict observed at
meetings indicate a need to de-escalate tensions and restore trust before further harm
is done to the community fabric. Ms. Huston requested that Council consider placing an
item on a future agenda to explore the possibility of conducting independent feasibility
studies to better understand the impacts of proposed developments on the community.
She concluded by reiterating her belief that both Council and residents want what is
best for the community and stressed the importance of restoring communication and
unity.
Barry Blankenship First Street – Mr. Blankenship addressed Council and stated that he
was the individual who initially became aware of grading activity occurring at the site. He
explained that after observing the activity, he contacted City staff, which led to
communication with Mr. Nichols and subsequent conversations with Butler County. Mr.
Blankenship stated that he personally followed up by contacting Jacob Lynch, who
promptly provided the permit number and related information, including the NPDES
permit, without hesitation. Mr. Blankenship noted that the information was obtained
from Butler County simply by asking and stated that residents have been requesting
similar information from the City. He expressed frustration that information appears to
be accessible through the County but not clearly communicated at the City level. Mr.
Blankenship stated that residents want to work collaboratively with Council and
acknowledged that discussions have occurred publicly regarding the project. He
questioned whether, once a topic has been discussed publicly, Council is able to speak
more openly without violating executive session restrictions. Legal counsel clarified that
discussions held in executive session remain subject to confidentiality requirements,
even if the topic has been discussed publicly elsewhere. Mr. Blankenship expressed
concern that the lack of information and communication is contributing to division
within the community, stating that the issue has created tension between residents and
City leadership. He emphasized that residents are seeking transparency and answers,
not conflict, and noted that while rumors and public discussions may circulate, Council
members are still bound by legal limitations regarding what they can confirm or deny.
Mr. Blankenship stated that residents need clearer communication and responses from
both the City and the developer in order to restore trust and community unity. He
reiterated calls for increased transparency, openness, and the sharing of information to
help alleviate frustration and rebuild confidence in the process.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Motion –To Read Items 1 and 2 Under Unfinished Business By Title Only
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Butts_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
1. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 276 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF
THE CITY OF TRENTON RELATING TO THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD.
(Second Reading)
Motion –The Ordinance Be Approved
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Butts_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
Mr. Beresford explained that the proposed ordinance clarifies the appointment and rotation rules
for the Parks and Recreation Board. Under the ordinance, Council will appoint one member of
Council to serve on the Parks and Recreation Board. He stated that any Council member serving
as an alternate on the Parks and Recreation Board may only rotate with the appointed Council
member. A Council alternate may not rotate with a public member, and a public member may not
rotate with a Council member. Mr. Beresford further explained that the ordinance also
establishes that the Parks and Recreation Board may adopt its own rules and regulations, with
the exception of the requirement that one Council member serve on the Board. In response to a
question, Mr. Beresford confirmed that existing Council members serving as alternates on the
Parks and Recreation Board would only be permitted to rotate with the designated Council
representative.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
2. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CCOPERATION WITH THE OHIO DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION (ODOT) FOR PID NO. 115754 RESURFACING IMPROVEMENTS
TO EAST STATE STREET (S.R. 73); AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (Second
Reading)
City Manager Nichols provided an overview of the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) project
along State Route 73, extending from First Street to the corporation limits at the bridge. He stated
that the project scope includes pavement repair, pavement planning, asphalt and concrete
resurfacing, curb and curb ramp improvements, combination curb and gutter work, drainage
upgrades, sidewalk improvements, pavement markings, and other related work necessary for the
project. Mr. Nichols explained that the City’s estimated share of the project cost is $685,999. He
noted that this action would allow the City to move forward with the ODOT project and proceed with
resurfacing the corridor. He further stated that the project includes grant funding to offset a portion
of the total cost.
Motion –The Resolution Be Approved
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Butts_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
PUBLIC HEARINGS
NEW BUSINESS
1. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A PURCHASE AGREEMENT
WITH CABLING SPECIALIST, INC. FOR THE PURPOSE OF DESIGNING, PROVIDING
HARDWARE, AND INSTALLING FIBER OPTIC FROM THE PUBLIC WORKS GARAGE TO THE
SOUTH WATER TOWER, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-NINE
THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED NINETY-FIVE DOLLARS ($169,395.00), AND FURTHER
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motion –That the Motion Be Approved.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Mr. Proffitt_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
2. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A PURCHASE AGREEMENT
WITH THE VENDOR SUBMITTING THE LOWEST RESPONSIBLE QUOTE FOR FOURTEEN
(14) LAPTOP COMPUTERS, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED FORTY THOUSAND DOLLARS
($40,000), AND TO FURTHER AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL
DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motion –That the Motion Be Approved.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Butts_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
3. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A PURCHASE AGREEMNT
WITH THE VENDOR SUBMITTING THE LOWEST RESPONSIBLE QUOTE FOR FOURTEEN
(14) DESKTOP COMPUTERS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED TWENTY THOUSAND
DOLLARS ($20,000), AND TO FUTHER AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL
DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motion –That the Motion Be Approved.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Butts_______ 2nd Mr. Croucher_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
a.
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
Prior to the Reading of Item #4 Vice Mayor Croucher made a motion to amend item four
under new business to read the motion to appoint Councilman Austin Proffitt to serve a
term of one year on the planning commission ending December 31 st 2026.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
4. A MOTION TO APPOINT COUNICLMAN PROFFIT TO SERVE ON THE PLANNING
COMMISSION FOR A TERM ENDING DECEMBER 31st, 2026.
Motion –Motion To Amend
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Proffitt
ABSENT: Nichols
(5)
(0)
(1)
(1)
Motion –Motion To Adopt
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Proffitt
ABSENT: Nichols
(5)
(0)
(1)
(1)
5. A MOTION TO APPOINT MARCI BUTTS TO SERVE ON THE PARKS BOARD AS A COUNCIL
REPRESENTATIVE FOR A TERM ENDING DECEMBER 31st, 2026.
Motion –Motion To Adopt
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Mr. Proffitt _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Butts
ABSENT: Nichols
(5)
(0)
(1)
(1)
6. A MOTION TO APPROVE THE APPOINTMENTS OF VARIOUS BOARD, COMMISSION AND
COMMITTEE MEMBERS PER EXHIBIT “A”
Motion –Motion To Approve
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
7. A MOTION RATIFYING THE ELECTION OF RYAN PERRY AS MAYOR FOR A TWO YEAR
TERM.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Perry
ABSENT: Nichols
(5)
(0)
(1)
(1)
8. A MOTION RATIFYING THE ELECTION OF FLOYD CROUCHER AS A VICE MAYOR FOR A
TWO YEAR TERM.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery_______ 2nd Mr. Proffitt _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Croucher
ABSENT: Nichols
(5)
(0)
(1)
(1)
9. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH
STRYKER, FOR THE PURPOSE OF PURCHASING 3 NEW LIFPAK 35’s AND 4 NEW AED’s
AT THE QUOTED COST OF FIVE ANNUAL PAYMENTS OF FIFTY-EIGHT THOUSAND TWO
HUNDRED EIGHTEEN DOLLARS AND THIRTY NINE-CENTS ($58,218.39) FOR USE BY
THE CITY OF TRENTON FIRE DEPARTMENT AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
SIGN ALL DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery_______ 2nd Ms. Butts _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
10. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH
VOGELPOHL FIRE EQUIPMENT, FOR THE PURPOSE OF PURCHASING 9 STS OF FIRE
GEAT (COAT, PANT, BOOTS, HELMET) AT THE QUOTED COST OF FORTY-FIVE THOUSAND
SIX HUNDRED SEVENTY ONE DOLLARS AND SEVENTEEN CENTS ($45,671.17) FOR USE
BY THE CITY OF TRENTON FIRE DEPARTMENT AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER
TO SIGN ALL DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
A. Mayor stated that it was not long ago the City was actively encouraging individuals to join the
Fire Department, noting that the department transitioned from fully volunteer to part-time
staffing. He remarked that the City is now regularly purchasing new equipment for the Fire
Department and expressed that he has no issue with investing in firefighter gear given the
challenges previously faced. Mayor thanked the firefighters for their service to the community
and specifically thanked Fire Chief Seabold. He also complimented the culture within the Fire
Department, noting that it has led to increased interest from individuals wanting to work for the
City of Trenton.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery_______ 2nd Ms. Butts _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
11. A MOTION, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH THE
KLEINGERS GROUP INC., FOR THE CONSTRUCTION DESIGN AND SURVEY WORK TO
MEET ODOT STANDARDS AND TIMELINE FOR HAMITLON-TRENTON ROAD RESURFACING
PROJECT (PID 124961) FOR A TOTAL COST OF EIGHY-ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS AND
ZERO CENTS ($81.000.00) AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN
ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher____ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
12. A MOTION, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH
ROBINSON FENCE COMPANY FOR THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF 496 FEET OF
GUARDRAILES AND ONE 12-FOOT GATE AT TRENTONS COMMUNITY PARK FOR A TOTAL
COST OF TWENTY-THREE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED DOLLARS AND ZERO CENTS
($23,800.00) AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL
DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Mr. Proffitt_____ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
a.
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
Prior to Item 13 on New Business Mayor made a motion to appoint Mr. Farmer to the
BZA (Board of Zoning Appeals)
13. A MOTION TO APPOINT MR. FARMER TO THE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS (BZA)
Motion –Motion To Appoint
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher____ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
LEGISLATION
REPORTS
1. Finance Director, Matthew Mesisklis- Mr. Mesisklis reiterated Service Director Brad
Baker’s earlier report regarding progress in reducing water loss. He stated that in spring
of the previous year, water loss was recorded at just under 40 percent. By August,
following initial corrective efforts, water loss had been reduced to 37.5 percent. Recent
readings from November and December showed further improvement, with water loss
reduced to approximately 30 percent. Mr. Mesisklis explained that water loss is
calculated by comparing metered water usage against total water produced at the water
plant. He noted that the reduction from 40 percent to 30 percent in less than a year
represents significant progress, while acknowledging additional work remains. Mr.
Mesisklis credited Mr. Baker and the Public Works staff for their efforts and noted that
these improvements helped the City maintain stable residential water rates this year,
with increases applied only to business rates. He stated that continued reductions in
water loss could help maintain rate stability as the water system becomes more
efficient.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
2. Clerk of Council, Stanislav Beresford- Mr. Beresford reviewed the timeline discussed at
the work session regarding the City’s purchase of property. He stated that the original
purchase and sale agreement was executed on September 12, 2025, while discussions
regarding potential acquisition were still ongoing and no final decision was required,
necessitating an extension. A first amendment to the agreement was executed on
October 15, 2025, as the Phase I environmental study had not yet been completed due
to a miscommunication during early coordination. A proposal for the Phase I study was
signed on October 17, 2025. A second amendment was executed on November 15,
2025, as the study had still not been received, and an additional extension was
requested. The Phase I study was received on November 20, 2025. Upon receipt, an
email was sent confirming intent to move forward, followed by additional
communication on December 5, 2025. On December 6, 2025, after staff review and
receiving no negative feedback, direction was given to proceed with closing. Mr.
Beresford also announced that the Hometown Hero banners are officially installed and
visible along the roadway and State Street. He thanked the committee group for
selecting the banners and Mr. Baker and his team for completing the project on an
expedited timeline. Mayor added that several residents have inquired about joining the
program after the deadline. Mr. Beresford reported that approximately 40 polls were
submitted, with 15 accepted, and that no additional poles are currently available. Any
expansion of the program would require future staff coordination, and staff indicated
they would explore the possibility of requesting additional poles from Duke Energy.
3. City Manager, Marcos Nichols- Mr. Nichols had a request to go to executive session to
consider the confidential information related to marketing plans, specific business
strategy, production techniques, trade secrets, or personal financial statements of an
applicant for economic development assistance and to confer with legal counsel as well
as to discuss the pending or imminent court action with the public body’s legal counsel.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
AUDIENCE OF COUNCIL
Mr. Roark- Mr. Roark addressed Council and residents from a personal perspective, stating
that he has lived in the City of Trenton for nearly 30 years, raised his sons in the community,
and is now raising his grandchildren there. He emphasized that Council members are not
adversaries of residents and that Council’s goal is to act in the best interest of the City, even
when outcomes may not align with everyone’s expectations. He explained that his motivation
for serving on Council is to represent residents’ concerns and ask questions on their behalf,
including seeking information during executive sessions when appropriate, while
acknowledging the frustration that can arise when residents feel uninformed and noting that
there are limits on what information can be publicly shared. Mr. Roark stated that he is looking
forward to 2026 and his four-year term, expressed pride in the community and appreciation
for the City’s support of his family and small business, and stressed the importance of balance
in decision-making, recognizing that not every issue will result in a desired outcome for all
parties. He concluded by noting that division occurs when individuals are unable to move
forward after disagreements and emphasized the importance of maintaining respect, unity,
and positive relationships among neighbors despite differences.
Ms. Butts- Ms. Butts thanked City staff, including Mr. Baker and his team, for their continued
work and dedication. She also expressed appreciation to those in attendance and to the
community for the opportunity to serve on Council, stating that she values the passion
residents have for the City and shares that same commitment. She concluded by thanking
the community for their trust.
Mr. Proffitt- Mr. Proffitt thanked the residents who elected him to Council and expressed
appreciation for City departments, including Public Works, Fire, Police, and City staff, for their
assistance during the transition of new Council members. He also thanked Mr. Ziepfel and
noted that his first executive session extended late into the evening and focused heavily on
learning the laws and responsibilities associated with Council service. Mr. Proffitt shared that,
having attended meetings for several years as a resident, he previously had many of the same
questions as members of the public. After participating in executive session discussions, he
stated that he better understands why certain decisions were made prior to his election,
noting that while he may not agree with all of them, he can appreciate the reasoning behind
many of those decisions.
Ms. Montgomery- Ms. Montgomery thanked Pastor Risner for the prayer and shared that her
heart has always been with the Trenton community, where she has lived since 1995 and
previously pastored a church. She stated that she values the opportunity for everyone to voice
their opinions, acknowledging that discussions can at times become heated, but that the
community ultimately returns to a respectful and balanced baseline. Ms. Montgomery
reflected that living in Trenton has been a meaningful and faith-driven part of her life,
especially after recovering from a serious accident, and expressed deep appreciation for the
support she has received from the City, Council, and staff during that time. She stated that
she knows the hearts of the individuals serving on Council, including the newly elected
members, and believes they are genuinely motivated by what is best for the residents and the
town, not by personal interests. Ms. Montgomery also expressed gratitude for the police and
fire departments, reiterated her love for the City of Trenton, and stated that she will always
stand for what she believes is best for the community. She emphasized the importance of
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
prayer in her life and concluded by expressing care, compassion, and goodwill toward
residents, stating that her intentions—and those of Council—are rooted in service to the
community.
Vice Mayor Croucher- Vice Mayor Croucher thanked Pastor Keith for the prayer offered at the
Council meeting and expressed pride that the City of Trenton continues the tradition of prayer
before meetings, noting that it recognizes a higher power and is practiced by only a few cities
in Ohio. He thanked Public Works and City staff and noted that former Council member Dale
Perry was in attendance. Vice Mayor Croucher reminded residents that the EMA continues to
collect canned goods and food donations, including $5 and $10 bags available at Todd’s,
emphasizing that the food remains within the community, while also noting that individuals
in need from outside the community are not turned away. He then shared a personal
experience from December 1, expressing sincere gratitude to the Trenton Fire Department
for their professionalism and care after he had to call for assistance. He stated that the fire
department provided excellent service, transported his mother to UC Medical Center, and that
she is now doing much better. He thanked Chief Sebald, the fire department, and EMT staff
for their response and concluded his remarks.
Mayor Perry - Mayor Perry thanked the council members who previously served, noting it was
unusual not to see the same individuals he had served alongside for the past 14 to 16 years.
He expressed appreciation for their service, stating they endured some of the most
challenging years in Trenton’s history, including the transition from having no industrial land
to approving industrial development, often while facing sustained opposition. He also thanked
all residents who attended and spoke, emphasizing that Council members are not adversaries
of the public. Mayor Perry stated that disagreement on an issue does not affect Council’s
responsibility to serve residents, noting that he continues to assist constituents regardless of
criticism or past disagreements, including criticism expressed on social media. He
emphasized that Council members will continue to help residents whenever possible and that
disagreements should be set aside once an issue has concluded. Mayor Perry concluded by
welcoming the new council members, stating it is a pleasure to serve with them and
expressing that, with the City of Trenton undergoing significant change, some turnover was
timely and he looks forward to working together moving forward.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
EXECUTIVE SESSION REQUEST
Motion – Motion to go to executive session for the reasons stated by City Manager Nichols
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery______ 2nd Mr. Roark_ Time:8:12 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
Motion – Motion to Adjourn Executive Session
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Butts______ 2nd Mayor. Perry_ Time:10:02 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
ADJOURNMENT
Motion - That the meeting be adjourned.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery_____ 2nd Vice Mayor Croucher_ Time:10:03 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Floyd Croucher Ray Nichols
Ryan Perry
Mayor
Austin Proffitt Ken Roark
Vice Mayor
Council Member
Council Member
Marci Butts
Council Member Council Member
Sharon Montgomery
Council Member
CALL TO ORDER
PRAYER
1. Keith Risner
ROLL CALL
Present: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Roark, Butts, Montgomery, (6)
Absent: Nichols
(1)
Motion –To Excuse Councilman Nichols For Reasons Known To Council.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
PRESENTATIONS
1. Social Media Archive Demonstration
a. Mr. Beresford provided an overview and brief demonstration of the City’s
newly launched social media archive, which was added to the City
website earlier that day. He explained that the archive captures and
preserves content posted to the City’s Facebook and YouTube pages, as
well as other related City social media accounts. Mr. Beresford described
two ways the public can access the archive through the City website. First,
users may utilize the website search function by entering a keyword (such
as “banners”) and selecting the social media results, which redirects
users to the separate social media archive site. Second, users may
navigate directly through the website’s “Find” section by selecting “Social
Media Archiving,” which provides information about the archive and links
to the searchable platform. Mr. Beresford noted that, based on his
review, archived content generally dates back to 2019, depending on
when items were originally posted. He further explained that City Council
meeting videos are now consistently posted to YouTube due to
Facebook’s policy of deleting videos after 30 days, and that the archive
allows users to search and view both Facebook and YouTube content
related to City Council meetings. Mr. Beresford stated that information
about the archive had also been posted on the City’s Facebook page
earlier that day. Following the presentation, Council thanked Mr.
Beresford and expressed appreciation for his efforts to improve
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
transparency, expand access to City communications, and make archived
content more accessible to the public.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Minutes of the December 18th, 2025, Council Work Session.
2. Minutes of the December 18th, 2025, Regular Council Meeting.
Motion –To Table The Minutes Till The January 22nd Meeting
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
CORRESPONDENCE
AUDIENCE OF PUBLIC
Barry Blankenship First Street - Barry Blankenship, First Street, addressed Council
during public comment. He welcomed and congratulated the newly seated Council
members and clarified that his remarks were not directed toward them, noting they
were still becoming familiar with ongoing matters. Mr. Blankenship stated that he
attended a Planning Commission meeting in Wilmington, Ohio, where a proposed data
center project was tabled pending additional information and studies. He referenced
discussions regarding data center development statewide and emphasized that
property ownership alone does not constitute project approval. He described
information presented in Wilmington concerning the scale of the proposed facilities,
including the number of buildings and backup generators, and raised concerns about
potential noise, generator testing schedules, emissions, and environmental impacts. He
asked whether similar issues were being evaluated for the proposed development in
Trenton, including the type of backup power planned, noise mitigation measures,
generator cycling schedules, and the findings of any environmental impact studies. Mr.
Blankenship stated that if such information was not yet available, he believed additional
studies were necessary and requested that Council delay further action until more
information was provided and the newly elected Council members had sufficient time to
become fully informed. Mr. Blankenship also raised concerns regarding traffic impacts
associated with the proposed development. He referenced discussions with City staff
about increasing traffic and asked whether a specific parcel of land could be used as a
secondary ingress and egress point for construction and heavy truck traffic. City staff
responded that the parcel in question was intended to serve as a secondary ingress and
egress and that any traffic, site plans, or construction impacts would be addressed
during future Planning Commission review. City Manager Nichols clarified that the
upcoming Planning Commission agenda item involved a lot combination request only,
and that traffic and site plan details were not under consideration at that time. Mayor
noted that the City had not yet received final site plans, that the project had not reached
a stage requiring Council action, and that there was no legislation currently before
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Council to table. Mayor further noted that grading and soil movement approvals fall
under Butler County jurisdiction until such time as the project advances to City Planning
Commission review.
Bobby Angst 6573 Road - Mr. Angst thanked Council for the opportunity to speak and
expressed appreciation for Council’s efforts in working with Prologis to bring the
proposed project to the City. He stated that he represents Electrical Workers Local 648,
which serves Butler and Warren Counties, and noted that approximately 87 members of
the local union reside within the City of Trenton. He explained that the electrical trade
requires completion of an apprenticeship program and identified Edgewood High School
as a strong feeder school for that program. Mr. Angst shared that he is a graduate of
Edgewood High School and was accompanied by a first-year apprentice. Mr. Angst
stated that members of his union are currently working on data center projects
throughout Ohio and surrounding states, and emphasized that similar projects will be
built regardless of location. He expressed support for the project being located in
Trenton so local workers can work in their own community, pay local taxes, and spend
money locally. He estimated the project investment to exceed one billion dollars, with
approximately 20–25 percent representing wages and benefits, noting that multiple
skilled trades would be involved. He further stated that, beyond construction, such
facilities require ongoing maintenance and staffing, resulting in continued economic
activity and city income tax revenue. Mr. Angst concluded by stating that, while he
acknowledged community questions about data centers, he was speaking on behalf of
construction workers and trade members and described the project as a significant
economic opportunity.
Angie Markham 600 South First – Ms. Markham addressed Council during public
comment regarding transparency, communication, and community engagement related
to the proposed data center project. Ms. Markham asked whether recent statements
about improving transparency were a Council-wide initiative or an individual effort by the
mayor; the mayor responded that he could only speak for himself. Ms. Markham stated
that she first attended a City Council meeting on November 20 and asked where
residents could access data, studies, and information related to the project. She stated
that at that time she was told no studies had been conducted, plans were not finalized,
and there was no information available to share. She noted that similar responses have
continued to be provided. She referenced prior discussions regarding water usage
estimates originating from Hillyard and stated that she accepted that information in
good faith. Ms. Markham expressed concern that grading activity began prior to
residents receiving notice and stated that many residents became aware only after
observing activity or seeing comments on social media. She referenced a Facebook post
by Mr. Nichols stating that grading permits had been issued by Butler County and that
building permits had not yet been approved. Ms. Markham questioned why this
information was not shared earlier at the November meeting and asked whether Council
members were aware of the grading permits at that time. Mayor note that he personally
confirmed grading activity after contacting Mr. Mesisklis, who visited the site. Mayor
indicated that neither the City nor Butler County communicated the grading approval to
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
residents. Ms. Marham questioned how residents could have confidence in the process
if information is not shared or if residents are not informed that approvals may occur
through Butler County rather than the City. Ms. Markham asked what steps would be
taken moving forward to improve communication and ensure residents understand
where information originates, including which entities are responsible for various
approvals. Mayor responded that the City did not receive notice from Butler County
regarding the grading activity and acknowledged that the City cannot compel the County
to provide such notice. Ms. Markham reiterated that residents are not aware of
jurisdictional distinctions and requested clearer guidance on where information should
be sought in the future. Ms. Markham concluded by requesting improved proactive
communication regarding approvals handled by entities outside City control and
thanked Council for the opportunity to speak.
Danielle Huston - Danielle Huston addressed Council, stating that she does not speak
frequently at meetings due to the close-knit nature of the community and concerns that
unresolved issues can divide residents. She expressed concern that recent events and
discussions surrounding development, particularly the data center and solar farm, have
begun to create visible tension and division within the community. Ms. Huston
emphasized that residents rely on Council to provide clear, informed information and
accountability, acknowledging that this responsibility is difficult but essential. Ms.
Huston stated that while disagreements are inevitable, residents need to understand
what is occurring upfront, who is accountable, and how decisions are being made. She
raised concerns about potential reductions in municipal authority due to PUCO
involvement and questioned how Council anticipates addressing those challenges. She
acknowledged the argument that development may have been inevitable but stressed
that residents feel unheard and frustrated by the pace and way changes are occurring.
Ms. Huston noted that while growth can bring jobs and economic benefits, the process
has created community conflict, with neighbors disagreeing and relationships becoming
strained. She stated she is neither for nor against development in principle, but
expressed opposition to how the process has unfolded, stating that it is damaging
community cohesion. She referenced challenges experienced by the Edgewood
community in recent years, including decreased community engagement and trust, and
cautioned that similar patterns may emerge locally if concerns are not addressed. Ms.
Huston asked how the City intends to rebuild trust and improve communication,
emphasizing that optics matter, particularly because the City previously owned and sold
the property in question. Ms. Huston requested clarity regarding what authority the City
does and does not have, particularly in relation to PUCO and Butler County, and asked
what actions residents could take to support transparency and accountability, including
potential outreach to Butler County officials. She raised concerns regarding
accountability related to tax abatements and employment commitments tied to previous
developments. Ms. Huston asked whether comprehensive feasibility studies, financial,
environmental, and economic—have been completed for both the data center and the
solar farm. City Manager Nichols responded that the City has not contracted with
outside firms for independent feasibility studies and explained that submitted site plans
and studies from developers are reviewed internally by staff and the City’s contracted
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
engineering professionals, with revisions made as necessary before consideration by
the Planning Commission. Ms. Huston expressed concern that reliance on developerprovided information may not fully address community impacts and requested that
Council consider engaging an independent third party to conduct feasibility studies. She
emphasized that the ongoing frustration, defensiveness, and conflict observed at
meetings indicate a need to de-escalate tensions and restore trust before further harm
is done to the community fabric. Ms. Huston requested that Council consider placing an
item on a future agenda to explore the possibility of conducting independent feasibility
studies to better understand the impacts of proposed developments on the community.
She concluded by reiterating her belief that both Council and residents want what is
best for the community and stressed the importance of restoring communication and
unity.
Barry Blankenship First Street – Mr. Blankenship addressed Council and stated that he
was the individual who initially became aware of grading activity occurring at the site. He
explained that after observing the activity, he contacted City staff, which led to
communication with Mr. Nichols and subsequent conversations with Butler County. Mr.
Blankenship stated that he personally followed up by contacting Jacob Lynch, who
promptly provided the permit number and related information, including the NPDES
permit, without hesitation. Mr. Blankenship noted that the information was obtained
from Butler County simply by asking and stated that residents have been requesting
similar information from the City. He expressed frustration that information appears to
be accessible through the County but not clearly communicated at the City level. Mr.
Blankenship stated that residents want to work collaboratively with Council and
acknowledged that discussions have occurred publicly regarding the project. He
questioned whether, once a topic has been discussed publicly, Council is able to speak
more openly without violating executive session restrictions. Legal counsel clarified that
discussions held in executive session remain subject to confidentiality requirements,
even if the topic has been discussed publicly elsewhere. Mr. Blankenship expressed
concern that the lack of information and communication is contributing to division
within the community, stating that the issue has created tension between residents and
City leadership. He emphasized that residents are seeking transparency and answers,
not conflict, and noted that while rumors and public discussions may circulate, Council
members are still bound by legal limitations regarding what they can confirm or deny.
Mr. Blankenship stated that residents need clearer communication and responses from
both the City and the developer in order to restore trust and community unity. He
reiterated calls for increased transparency, openness, and the sharing of information to
help alleviate frustration and rebuild confidence in the process.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Motion –To Read Items 1 and 2 Under Unfinished Business By Title Only
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Butts_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
1. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 276 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF
THE CITY OF TRENTON RELATING TO THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD.
(Second Reading)
Motion –The Ordinance Be Approved
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Butts_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
Mr. Beresford explained that the proposed ordinance clarifies the appointment and rotation rules
for the Parks and Recreation Board. Under the ordinance, Council will appoint one member of
Council to serve on the Parks and Recreation Board. He stated that any Council member serving
as an alternate on the Parks and Recreation Board may only rotate with the appointed Council
member. A Council alternate may not rotate with a public member, and a public member may not
rotate with a Council member. Mr. Beresford further explained that the ordinance also
establishes that the Parks and Recreation Board may adopt its own rules and regulations, with
the exception of the requirement that one Council member serve on the Board. In response to a
question, Mr. Beresford confirmed that existing Council members serving as alternates on the
Parks and Recreation Board would only be permitted to rotate with the designated Council
representative.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
2. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CCOPERATION WITH THE OHIO DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION (ODOT) FOR PID NO. 115754 RESURFACING IMPROVEMENTS
TO EAST STATE STREET (S.R. 73); AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (Second
Reading)
City Manager Nichols provided an overview of the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) project
along State Route 73, extending from First Street to the corporation limits at the bridge. He stated
that the project scope includes pavement repair, pavement planning, asphalt and concrete
resurfacing, curb and curb ramp improvements, combination curb and gutter work, drainage
upgrades, sidewalk improvements, pavement markings, and other related work necessary for the
project. Mr. Nichols explained that the City’s estimated share of the project cost is $685,999. He
noted that this action would allow the City to move forward with the ODOT project and proceed with
resurfacing the corridor. He further stated that the project includes grant funding to offset a portion
of the total cost.
Motion –The Resolution Be Approved
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Butts_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
PUBLIC HEARINGS
NEW BUSINESS
1. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A PURCHASE AGREEMENT
WITH CABLING SPECIALIST, INC. FOR THE PURPOSE OF DESIGNING, PROVIDING
HARDWARE, AND INSTALLING FIBER OPTIC FROM THE PUBLIC WORKS GARAGE TO THE
SOUTH WATER TOWER, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-NINE
THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED NINETY-FIVE DOLLARS ($169,395.00), AND FURTHER
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motion –That the Motion Be Approved.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Mr. Proffitt_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
2. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A PURCHASE AGREEMENT
WITH THE VENDOR SUBMITTING THE LOWEST RESPONSIBLE QUOTE FOR FOURTEEN
(14) LAPTOP COMPUTERS, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED FORTY THOUSAND DOLLARS
($40,000), AND TO FURTHER AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL
DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motion –That the Motion Be Approved.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Butts_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
3. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A PURCHASE AGREEMNT
WITH THE VENDOR SUBMITTING THE LOWEST RESPONSIBLE QUOTE FOR FOURTEEN
(14) DESKTOP COMPUTERS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED TWENTY THOUSAND
DOLLARS ($20,000), AND TO FUTHER AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL
DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motion –That the Motion Be Approved.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Butts_______ 2nd Mr. Croucher_
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Proffitt, Roark NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
a.
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
Prior to the Reading of Item #4 Vice Mayor Croucher made a motion to amend item four
under new business to read the motion to appoint Councilman Austin Proffitt to serve a
term of one year on the planning commission ending December 31 st 2026.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
4. A MOTION TO APPOINT COUNICLMAN PROFFIT TO SERVE ON THE PLANNING
COMMISSION FOR A TERM ENDING DECEMBER 31st, 2026.
Motion –Motion To Amend
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Proffitt
ABSENT: Nichols
(5)
(0)
(1)
(1)
Motion –Motion To Adopt
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Proffitt
ABSENT: Nichols
(5)
(0)
(1)
(1)
5. A MOTION TO APPOINT MARCI BUTTS TO SERVE ON THE PARKS BOARD AS A COUNCIL
REPRESENTATIVE FOR A TERM ENDING DECEMBER 31st, 2026.
Motion –Motion To Adopt
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Mr. Proffitt _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Butts
ABSENT: Nichols
(5)
(0)
(1)
(1)
6. A MOTION TO APPROVE THE APPOINTMENTS OF VARIOUS BOARD, COMMISSION AND
COMMITTEE MEMBERS PER EXHIBIT “A”
Motion –Motion To Approve
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
7. A MOTION RATIFYING THE ELECTION OF RYAN PERRY AS MAYOR FOR A TWO YEAR
TERM.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Perry
ABSENT: Nichols
(5)
(0)
(1)
(1)
8. A MOTION RATIFYING THE ELECTION OF FLOYD CROUCHER AS A VICE MAYOR FOR A
TWO YEAR TERM.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery_______ 2nd Mr. Proffitt _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Croucher
ABSENT: Nichols
(5)
(0)
(1)
(1)
9. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH
STRYKER, FOR THE PURPOSE OF PURCHASING 3 NEW LIFPAK 35’s AND 4 NEW AED’s
AT THE QUOTED COST OF FIVE ANNUAL PAYMENTS OF FIFTY-EIGHT THOUSAND TWO
HUNDRED EIGHTEEN DOLLARS AND THIRTY NINE-CENTS ($58,218.39) FOR USE BY
THE CITY OF TRENTON FIRE DEPARTMENT AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
SIGN ALL DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery_______ 2nd Ms. Butts _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
10. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH
VOGELPOHL FIRE EQUIPMENT, FOR THE PURPOSE OF PURCHASING 9 STS OF FIRE
GEAT (COAT, PANT, BOOTS, HELMET) AT THE QUOTED COST OF FORTY-FIVE THOUSAND
SIX HUNDRED SEVENTY ONE DOLLARS AND SEVENTEEN CENTS ($45,671.17) FOR USE
BY THE CITY OF TRENTON FIRE DEPARTMENT AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER
TO SIGN ALL DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
A. Mayor stated that it was not long ago the City was actively encouraging individuals to join the
Fire Department, noting that the department transitioned from fully volunteer to part-time
staffing. He remarked that the City is now regularly purchasing new equipment for the Fire
Department and expressed that he has no issue with investing in firefighter gear given the
challenges previously faced. Mayor thanked the firefighters for their service to the community
and specifically thanked Fire Chief Seabold. He also complimented the culture within the Fire
Department, noting that it has led to increased interest from individuals wanting to work for the
City of Trenton.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery_______ 2nd Ms. Butts _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
11. A MOTION, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH THE
KLEINGERS GROUP INC., FOR THE CONSTRUCTION DESIGN AND SURVEY WORK TO
MEET ODOT STANDARDS AND TIMELINE FOR HAMITLON-TRENTON ROAD RESURFACING
PROJECT (PID 124961) FOR A TOTAL COST OF EIGHY-ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS AND
ZERO CENTS ($81.000.00) AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN
ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher____ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
12. A MOTION, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH
ROBINSON FENCE COMPANY FOR THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF 496 FEET OF
GUARDRAILES AND ONE 12-FOOT GATE AT TRENTONS COMMUNITY PARK FOR A TOTAL
COST OF TWENTY-THREE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED DOLLARS AND ZERO CENTS
($23,800.00) AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL
DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Mr. Proffitt_____ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
a.
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
Prior to Item 13 on New Business Mayor made a motion to appoint Mr. Farmer to the
BZA (Board of Zoning Appeals)
13. A MOTION TO APPOINT MR. FARMER TO THE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS (BZA)
Motion –Motion To Appoint
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher____ 2nd Ms. Montgomery _
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
LEGISLATION
REPORTS
1. Finance Director, Matthew Mesisklis- Mr. Mesisklis reiterated Service Director Brad
Baker’s earlier report regarding progress in reducing water loss. He stated that in spring
of the previous year, water loss was recorded at just under 40 percent. By August,
following initial corrective efforts, water loss had been reduced to 37.5 percent. Recent
readings from November and December showed further improvement, with water loss
reduced to approximately 30 percent. Mr. Mesisklis explained that water loss is
calculated by comparing metered water usage against total water produced at the water
plant. He noted that the reduction from 40 percent to 30 percent in less than a year
represents significant progress, while acknowledging additional work remains. Mr.
Mesisklis credited Mr. Baker and the Public Works staff for their efforts and noted that
these improvements helped the City maintain stable residential water rates this year,
with increases applied only to business rates. He stated that continued reductions in
water loss could help maintain rate stability as the water system becomes more
efficient.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
2. Clerk of Council, Stanislav Beresford- Mr. Beresford reviewed the timeline discussed at
the work session regarding the City’s purchase of property. He stated that the original
purchase and sale agreement was executed on September 12, 2025, while discussions
regarding potential acquisition were still ongoing and no final decision was required,
necessitating an extension. A first amendment to the agreement was executed on
October 15, 2025, as the Phase I environmental study had not yet been completed due
to a miscommunication during early coordination. A proposal for the Phase I study was
signed on October 17, 2025. A second amendment was executed on November 15,
2025, as the study had still not been received, and an additional extension was
requested. The Phase I study was received on November 20, 2025. Upon receipt, an
email was sent confirming intent to move forward, followed by additional
communication on December 5, 2025. On December 6, 2025, after staff review and
receiving no negative feedback, direction was given to proceed with closing. Mr.
Beresford also announced that the Hometown Hero banners are officially installed and
visible along the roadway and State Street. He thanked the committee group for
selecting the banners and Mr. Baker and his team for completing the project on an
expedited timeline. Mayor added that several residents have inquired about joining the
program after the deadline. Mr. Beresford reported that approximately 40 polls were
submitted, with 15 accepted, and that no additional poles are currently available. Any
expansion of the program would require future staff coordination, and staff indicated
they would explore the possibility of requesting additional poles from Duke Energy.
3. City Manager, Marcos Nichols- Mr. Nichols had a request to go to executive session to
consider the confidential information related to marketing plans, specific business
strategy, production techniques, trade secrets, or personal financial statements of an
applicant for economic development assistance and to confer with legal counsel as well
as to discuss the pending or imminent court action with the public body’s legal counsel.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
AUDIENCE OF COUNCIL
Mr. Roark- Mr. Roark addressed Council and residents from a personal perspective, stating
that he has lived in the City of Trenton for nearly 30 years, raised his sons in the community,
and is now raising his grandchildren there. He emphasized that Council members are not
adversaries of residents and that Council’s goal is to act in the best interest of the City, even
when outcomes may not align with everyone’s expectations. He explained that his motivation
for serving on Council is to represent residents’ concerns and ask questions on their behalf,
including seeking information during executive sessions when appropriate, while
acknowledging the frustration that can arise when residents feel uninformed and noting that
there are limits on what information can be publicly shared. Mr. Roark stated that he is looking
forward to 2026 and his four-year term, expressed pride in the community and appreciation
for the City’s support of his family and small business, and stressed the importance of balance
in decision-making, recognizing that not every issue will result in a desired outcome for all
parties. He concluded by noting that division occurs when individuals are unable to move
forward after disagreements and emphasized the importance of maintaining respect, unity,
and positive relationships among neighbors despite differences.
Ms. Butts- Ms. Butts thanked City staff, including Mr. Baker and his team, for their continued
work and dedication. She also expressed appreciation to those in attendance and to the
community for the opportunity to serve on Council, stating that she values the passion
residents have for the City and shares that same commitment. She concluded by thanking
the community for their trust.
Mr. Proffitt- Mr. Proffitt thanked the residents who elected him to Council and expressed
appreciation for City departments, including Public Works, Fire, Police, and City staff, for their
assistance during the transition of new Council members. He also thanked Mr. Ziepfel and
noted that his first executive session extended late into the evening and focused heavily on
learning the laws and responsibilities associated with Council service. Mr. Proffitt shared that,
having attended meetings for several years as a resident, he previously had many of the same
questions as members of the public. After participating in executive session discussions, he
stated that he better understands why certain decisions were made prior to his election,
noting that while he may not agree with all of them, he can appreciate the reasoning behind
many of those decisions.
Ms. Montgomery- Ms. Montgomery thanked Pastor Risner for the prayer and shared that her
heart has always been with the Trenton community, where she has lived since 1995 and
previously pastored a church. She stated that she values the opportunity for everyone to voice
their opinions, acknowledging that discussions can at times become heated, but that the
community ultimately returns to a respectful and balanced baseline. Ms. Montgomery
reflected that living in Trenton has been a meaningful and faith-driven part of her life,
especially after recovering from a serious accident, and expressed deep appreciation for the
support she has received from the City, Council, and staff during that time. She stated that
she knows the hearts of the individuals serving on Council, including the newly elected
members, and believes they are genuinely motivated by what is best for the residents and the
town, not by personal interests. Ms. Montgomery also expressed gratitude for the police and
fire departments, reiterated her love for the City of Trenton, and stated that she will always
stand for what she believes is best for the community. She emphasized the importance of
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
prayer in her life and concluded by expressing care, compassion, and goodwill toward
residents, stating that her intentions—and those of Council—are rooted in service to the
community.
Vice Mayor Croucher- Vice Mayor Croucher thanked Pastor Keith for the prayer offered at the
Council meeting and expressed pride that the City of Trenton continues the tradition of prayer
before meetings, noting that it recognizes a higher power and is practiced by only a few cities
in Ohio. He thanked Public Works and City staff and noted that former Council member Dale
Perry was in attendance. Vice Mayor Croucher reminded residents that the EMA continues to
collect canned goods and food donations, including $5 and $10 bags available at Todd’s,
emphasizing that the food remains within the community, while also noting that individuals
in need from outside the community are not turned away. He then shared a personal
experience from December 1, expressing sincere gratitude to the Trenton Fire Department
for their professionalism and care after he had to call for assistance. He stated that the fire
department provided excellent service, transported his mother to UC Medical Center, and that
she is now doing much better. He thanked Chief Sebald, the fire department, and EMT staff
for their response and concluded his remarks.
Mayor Perry - Mayor Perry thanked the council members who previously served, noting it was
unusual not to see the same individuals he had served alongside for the past 14 to 16 years.
He expressed appreciation for their service, stating they endured some of the most
challenging years in Trenton’s history, including the transition from having no industrial land
to approving industrial development, often while facing sustained opposition. He also thanked
all residents who attended and spoke, emphasizing that Council members are not adversaries
of the public. Mayor Perry stated that disagreement on an issue does not affect Council’s
responsibility to serve residents, noting that he continues to assist constituents regardless of
criticism or past disagreements, including criticism expressed on social media. He
emphasized that Council members will continue to help residents whenever possible and that
disagreements should be set aside once an issue has concluded. Mayor Perry concluded by
welcoming the new council members, stating it is a pleasure to serve with them and
expressing that, with the City of Trenton undergoing significant change, some turnover was
timely and he looks forward to working together moving forward.
City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
January 8th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
EXECUTIVE SESSION REQUEST
Motion – Motion to go to executive session for the reasons stated by City Manager Nichols
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery______ 2nd Mr. Roark_ Time:8:12 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
Motion – Motion to Adjourn Executive Session
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Butts______ 2nd Mayor. Perry_ Time:10:02 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
ADJOURNMENT
Motion - That the meeting be adjourned.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery_____ 2nd Vice Mayor Croucher_ Time:10:03 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Montgomery, Croucher, Proffitt, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Nichols
(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)
LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND
Recap Statement
Fund 402
Beginning Balance 01/01/2025: $
25,961.48
REVENUE
Middletown Municipal Court, fines:
Forfeited funds (Order Granting Disposal of Property):
Trenton Mayor's Court, fines:
Property/Evidence (drug money):
OVI Awareness:
Middletown Municipal Court, fines:
Trenton Mayor's Court, fines:
Forfeited funds {(BC Sheriff's Office (BURN)}:
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
94.50
150.00
50.00
10,098.88
Total Revenue 2025: $
10,393.38
EXPENDITURES
SPO
5
R
5
5
R
R
Total Actual
Cost
$
$
$
$
$
$
832.50
551.92
19,166.00
250.00
432.43
214.57
19
Total Expenditures 2025: $
21,447.42
Item(s) Purchased
Purpose
Challenge coins
2025 Community preventive education (10%)
2025 Police Academy - Frary/Keil
Sgt Dulle Memorial Award, Officer Andersen
2025 Community preventive education (10%)
2025 Community preventive education (10%)
Auction/Sale
Proceeds
20
21
22
23
24
TOTAL REMAINING FUNDS: $ 14,907.44
R
Required expenditure on community education programs for 2025: $
Actual expenditure on community education programs for 2025: $
P://Administration/Purchasing/402
Created 03/23/2022
1,039.34
1,198.92
Page 1 of 2
Last updated 01/07/2026
LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND
Recap Statement
Fund 402
KEY - Purpose of Expenditure
(in reference to ORC 2981.13, City of Trenton Ordinances 222.08(a) and 08-2022,
and Lexipol Policy 602.7.1)
1
2
3
4
5
R
To pay the costs of protracted or complex investigations or prosecutions
To provide reasonable technical training or expertise
To provide matching funds to obtain federal grants to aid law enforcement, in the support of DARE
programs or other programs designed to educate adults or children with respect to the dangers
associated with the use of drugs of abuse
To pay the costs of emergency action taken under section 3745.13 of the Revised Code relative to the
operation of an illegal methamphetamine laboratory if the forfeited property or money involved was
that of a person responsible for the operation of the laboratory
For other law enforcement purposes that the Chief of Police determines to be appropriate
Indicates required expenditure of "at least ten per cent of the first one hundred thousand dollars of
amounts deposited during each calendar year in the agency's law enforcement trust fund under this
section, and at least twenty per cent of the amounts exceeding one hundred thousand dollars that are
so deposited, shall be used in connection with community preventive education programs"
P://Administration/Purchasing/402
Created 03/23/2022
Page 2 of 2
Last updated 01/07/2026
DECEMBER 31, 2025 - CITY OF TRENTON FINANCIAL SNAPSHOT
Fund Name
Original Budget
(2025)
011 GENERAL FUND
013 GENERAL DEBT SERVICE FUND
023 WATER DEBT SERVICE FUND
025 WATER IMPROVEMENTS FUND
026 WATER REVENUE FUND
027 WATER RATE STABILIZATION FUND
028 UTILITY CREDIT MEMO
036 WATER SYSTEM RESERVE FUND
050 UTILITY DEPOSIT TRUST FUND
066 SEWER REVENUE FUND
076 SEWER RESERVE FUND
096 REFUSE REVENUE FUND
102 STREET MAINTENANCE & REPAIR FUND
132 PARKS & RECREATION IMPROVEMENTS FUND
166 STORMWATER PHASE II FUND
192 COUNTY MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE FUND
202 MUNICIPAL MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE FUND
218 POLICE LEVY FUND
222 FIRE LEVY FUND
223 FIRE LEVY - CAPITAL & DEBT FUND
224 FIRE DEPOSIT ESCROW FUND
226 CASH BOND DEPOSIT FUND
234 GENERAL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND
250 GENERAL STABILIZATION RESERVE FUND
251 PROPERTY REHABILITATION FUND
252 MAYOR'S COURT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS FUND
253 TAX INCREMENT EQUIVALENT FUND
254 MUNICIPAL BUILDING PROJECT FUND
255 TIF - CARVANA INDUSTRIAL PARK
256 TIF- MAGNODE INDUSTRIAL PARK
402 LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND
432 FEDERAL ASSET FORFEITURE FUND
518 UNCLAIMED MONEYS--TRUST FUND
890 EMPLOYEE TERMINATION BENEFITS FUND
Grand Total
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
*Expenses Include only 2025 budgeted items
*Supplemental Budgets not reflected
8,267,603
456,532
2,999,668
260,000
55,000
1,869,786
800,000
1,349,656
891,277
2,131,000
284,527
150,000
170,000
4,113,348
1,819,042
130,650
26,100
200,000
30,000
250,000
70,000
10,000
3,000
30,000
26,367,189
YTD Spent (2025)
$
$
$
9,141,227
1,159,221
456,531
$
3,056,800
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
432,210
74,244
1,857,290
585,262
1,441,250
807,298
568,956
176,595
$
$
$
$
4,283,431
1,895,686
130,650
26,100
$
12,251,319
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
57,935
30,718
1,494,465
182,894
103,567
21,447
1,208
$
$
166,743
40,403,047
Original Revenue
Estimate (2025)
% Spend
111% $
100%
0%
102%
0%
0%
166%
135%
99%
73%
107%
91%
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
27%
62%
0%
0%
104%
104%
100%
100%
0%
6126%
0%
193%
0%
598%
0%
261%
1036%
715%
0%
0%
556%
153.2% $
8,608,000
0
456,532
2,918,000
5,000
260,000
60,000
1,870,000
30,000
1,300,000
848,000
1,683,700
308,000
150,000
170,000
4,174,000
1,418,500
90,958
960,000
20,000
2,000
1,350,000
72,000
40,000
700
38,000
26,833,390
YTD Received
$
$
$
8,772,468
1,825,672
456,532
$
3,120,731
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
(2,404)
512,134
84,750
1,821,605
163,552
1,326,738
996,254
$
$
1,908,903
315,073
$
$
$
$
152,151
4,586,586
1,624,176
90,958
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
40,320,743
50,683
2,918
1,480,985
73,197
65,271
10,343
50
238,000
$ 69,998,069
% Received
CASH Remaining
102% $
$
100% $
0% $
107% $
0% $
-48% $
197% $
141% $
97% $
545% $
102% $
117% $
113% $
102% $
0% $
90% $
110% $
114% $
100% $
0% $
0% $
4200% $
0% $
253% $
146% $
110% $
0% $
102% $
163% $
0% $
0% $
0% $
626% $
$
3,263,898
666,451
1
300,000
1,069,442
300,000
22,554
594,693
259,478
1,061,892
1,790,692
424,622
907,894
2,094,069
395,051
272,665
447,154
681,322
106,962
33,662,328
948,366
119,490
508
4,296,190
48,710
14,857
1,117
6,293
229,062
53,985,761
CASH Policy
$
Notes
2,333,177
$1.8m Premium, 740k Issuance Cost
$
$
$
300,000
795,715
300,000
$
300,000 Water Tower Loan + Construction beginning
$
$
979,701
300,000
$
96,745
$
826,760
$32m Issuance
Missed $193k Tax Bill
$
$
143,361
6,375,459
MAJOR REVENUES
INCOME TAX
AGO DELINQUENT TAX COLLECTIONS
PROPERTY TAX / PILOT / ROLLBACK
WATER SERVICE
SEWER SERVICE
REFUSE SERVICE
EMS TRANSPORT
INTEREST
GAS TAXES
VEHICLE REGISTRATION (STATE, CITY)
TOTAL - MAJOR SOURCES
2024 YTD
2025 YTD
$
4,057,927 $
4,124,872
$
2,049,627 $
1,959,308
$
4,171,615 $
4,193,696
$
2,346,636 $
2,375,404
$
1,814,398 $
1,821,175
$
1,246,641 $
1,326,738
$
366,123 $
434,068
$
831,293 $
1,147,996
$
706,713 $
724,266
$
182,626 $
235,167
$
17,590,973 $
18,342,690
Bank
Statement Balance
1st Financial
StarOhio
Redtree Financial
Huntington
TOTAL BANK STATEMENT BALANCE
TOTAL DEPOSITS-IN-TRANSIT
TOTAL BOOK FUND BALANCE
Month-end credit memos available
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
TOTAL MONTH-END UNCLEARED CHECKS
$
NET DIFFERENCE (Bank over Book)
$
1,840,126
7,301,971
45,158,875
44,586
54,345,559
10,283.07
53,985,761
22,554.05
$
$
$
$
As recommended by the Ohio Auditor of State, these statements are prepared
monthly and provided to the public for accountability purposes
29,211
80,392
1,106
110,709
348,879.19 *See Edenred 12/31 ACHs
43,756
Audit Limit %
0.08%
Miller-Valentine Design-Build Trenton Community and Municipal Complex
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
RedTree Financial. To maximize returns, funds are held in common with investment
advisors and then interest earnings are allocated to the City's Capital Improvement
Fund.
Month Interest
% Difference
Invoice Description
Interviews with staff, facility drawings, virtual design
Facility Drawings, Staff Interviews, Site review
Department Interviews, Design Alterations
Internal Design + Securty Specifics
Internal Design + Security + Pool specifics
HVAC + Security + Furnishing design
Electrical + Jail + Furnishing Design
Electrical + Security Design
Mobilization and Permiting Prep
Mobilization and Permitting
Grading and Temp Roadway
Total Spent as of 12/31/25
Fund 234 - Capital Improvement
2025 Rev. Est. %The
Rec.City of Trenton has several funds, dedicated to various purposes of local
These funds have distinct revenues which they are allowed to collect,
$
4,300,000 governance.
104.2%
$
1,800,000 and equally-distinct
91.9% categories of spending that each fund can be used to provide for
city operations. As good stewards of public finances, the City has
$
4,123,000 projects and98.3%
policies within its various funds to maintain minimum balances based on spending
$
2,325,000
#REF!
trends. These policies allow Trenton's operations to remain efficient and intact even
$
1,825,000
76.8%
in times of crisis.
Ample reserves also contribute the City's respectable Bond rating of
$
1,300,000 Aa1, which promotes
98.0%
access to low-interest debt to complete large-scale projects
$
290,000 without undue
66.8%
debt burden. Reserves also allow for the collection of interest revenue
$
600,000 to further improve
52.3% the City's financial security. The City holds its funds in StarOhio Goverment Investment Pool - which operates as a liquid money-market
$
680,000 Ohio's Local93.9%
also invests in securities such as CDs, Municipal Bonds, Treasury
$
255,000 fund. The City
108.4%
Commercial Paper for more aggressive yields with its investment advisor,
$ 17,498,000 Bonds, and 95.4%
Amount
99,103
322,085
74,327
486,617
347,583
208,551
208,550
69,516
69,517
703,505
1,731,971
4,321,326
Pay Date
2/12/2025
2/27/2025
3/25/2025
4/24/2025
5/31/2025
6/25/2025
7/31/2025
8/29/2025
9/30/2025
10/31/2025
12/19/2025
7%
CITY OF TRENTON
Parks and Recreation Board Meeting
MINUTES
MEETING PLACE: CIVIC HALL - 11 EAST STATE STREET
December 09, 2025 – 6:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER
Ms. Hale called to order the regular meeting of the City of Trenton Parks & Recreation Board on
December 09, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Recited.
ROLL CALL
Ms. Moore conducted the roll call. All regular members were present, except for Ms. Osuna and Mr.
Hill. Alternate members in attendance are Ms. Hater and Mr. Proffitt. The motion to excuse Ms.
Osuna and Mr. Hill was made by Ms. Butts and seconded by Ms. Lucas. Mr. Proffitt, Mr.
Croucher, and Ms. Hatter voted Nay. Ms. Hale and Mr. Melloh voted Yea. Ms. Hale recognized
the alternate members in attendance, Mr. Proffitt and Ms. Hatter.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion is needed to approve or amend the minutes of November 18, 2025, of the Regular Parks
and Recreation Board meeting as submitted. A motion to approve the minutes of November 18,
2025, meeting was made by Mr. Melloh and seconded by Mr. Croucher. All other members
voted Yea.
PRESENTATIONS
No presentations at this meeting.
AUDIENCE OF PUBLIC
Ms. Hale acknowledged the audience and thanked all who attended.
Ms. Hale asked if there was anyone in the audience that would like to step up and speak this evening.
No one spoke.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. Update regarding the Veterans Memorial
Ms. Moore reported that at the last meeting, all members had received the Middletown Community
Foundation’s (MCF) 3rd Quarter fundraising report. She explained that there had been a question
regarding the administrative fee listed on the report. After contacting MCF, she confirmed that the fee was
established when the account was opened and is assessed at 3% per donation. For example, a $5
donation would incur a $0.15 fee, leaving $4.85 to go toward the fundraiser. Ms. Moore noted that the total
administrative fees will continue to grow as additional donations are received.
Ms. Hale inquired whether the 3% fee is applied at the end of each quarter or per donation. Ms. Moore
clarified that the fee is applied to each individual donation. Ms. Hale thanked Ms. Moore for the clarification
and asked if anyone had additional updates regarding the Veterans Memorial.
Ms. Butts stated that she had heard discussions about the potential location of the Veterans Memorial but
had not received any official communication from the city.
Ms. Hale noted that 1,000 coasters had been distributed throughout the community and expressed
appreciation to the local businesses for participating. She mentioned that it was difficult to gauge the
effectiveness of the coasters in promoting the fundraiser.
Mr. Croucher added that he visited Neighbors to distribute the remaining coasters and observed a patron
using the QR code on a coaster, indicating engagement with the fundraiser.
2. Discussion Regarding the Static Display Program
Ms. Moore reported that each board member had received a packet of information regarding retired
Army equipment. She read an email from City Manager Marcos Nichols, which stated:
“The USA Static Display Program has changed its procedures. Organizations are no longer automatically
placed on a list or presented with opportunities to accept displays. Instead, an available equipment list is
sent out, and any organization may submit a letter of interest. All restoration, transportation, and
demilitarization costs are the responsibility of the receiving organization. This opportunity is open until
January 8th, after which submissions will be reviewed. Due to high volume of requests, please allow up
to 90 days for a response.”
Ms. Moore noted that the exact costs of restoration, transportation, and demilitarization cannot be
determined until an organization is selected to receive equipment. She added that if the board wishes to
participate, City Manager Nichols requests that the board select its top five equipment preferences. At
this time, it is unclear whether multiple submissions can be made simultaneously.
Ms. Moore suggested that the board consider equipment that requires minimal rehabilitation and is not
excessively heavy, to help reduce associated costs.
Ms. Hatter noted that transportation costs would also depend on the location where the equipment would
be shipped from.
Mr. Croucher asked whether the board was expected to make a decision at this meeting. Ms. Moore
confirmed that the January 8th deadline requires a decision tonight if the board wishes to move forward.
Ms. Hale referenced the 90-day review period and suggested that it might be possible for new equipment
to become available later. She also noted that, since the location of the Veterans Memorial has not yet
been determined, it may not be ideal to select equipment at this time.
Ms. Butts stated that she had not supported the program from the outset because the Veterans Memorial
is intended to honor all branches of the military, while the Static Display Program primarily offers Army
equipment. She also noted that the board is focused on fundraising to build the memorial and does not
have the resources to take on this additional project at this time.
Mr. Croucher asked for clarification regarding the availability of future equipment. Ms. Moore stated that
she did not know whether new equipment would become available after the current batch.
Ms. Hatter commented that, while this is a valuable opportunity, rushed decisions often result in
mistakes.
Ms. Lucas agreed that the program is a good idea but expressed reluctance to move forward without
knowing the costs of transportation, restoration, and demilitarization.
Mr. Croucher suggested that, as other municipalities often build memorials in phases, the city could
consider adding equipment during a later phase of construction. He emphasized that fundraising is
critical to advancing the project.
Ms. Butts added that the appropriateness of equipment depends on the memorial’s location, noting that
what may suit a park may not be suitable in front of the new City Building. She cautioned that rushing the
decision would not benefit the community.
Mr. Melloh noted that some costs could be reduced if the memorial is built at the new City Building due to
reduced excavation needs. Mr. Croucher stated that cost savings and the visual impact of the memorial
are priorities.
Mr. Proffitt asked whether research could be conducted to estimate the costs of restoration,
transportation, and demilitarization. Ms. Moore replied that each piece of equipment would have a unique
cost, and the city would likely not know exact figures until a project is accepted and begun.
Ms. Butts suggested that the board revisit this opportunity at a later date.
Ms. Hale stated that she will need a motion to revisit the Static Display Program discussion on a later
date. A motion was made by Ms. Butts and seconded by Ms. Hatter. All voted Yea.
3. Discussion regarding the Suicide Prevention Signs at Home Ave Park and Community Park
Ms. Moore provided an update on the proposed installation of suicide prevention signs at Home Avenue
Park and Community Park. Ms. Moore reported that final artwork for the signs was still pending but
requested guidance from the Board regarding potential placement so installation could occur promptly
once the signs are received.
Ms. Moore confirmed that two signs per park had previously been recommended and explained that the
signs would be mounted on 4x4 posts with panels approximately 14 inches by 24 inches. It was noted
that the signs would be relatively easy to remove and reinstall, allowing flexibility should future park
improvements or layout changes occur.
Board members discussed the importance of locating the signs in areas with high pedestrian traffic and
where park visitors may naturally pause or congregate. For Community Park, members suggested
locations near the restroom facilities, and along the walking path, nearest the train trussell as these areas
are commonly used by park patrons. Board members noted that these areas provide natural
opportunities for individuals to see.
Discussion regarding Home Avenue Park focused on placing signs near the crosswalk connecting the
athletic fields, and near the playground and shelter. Members acknowledged that future improvements at
Home Avenue Park may alter the park’s layout but agreed that installing the signs now could provide
immediate benefit. The Board discussed examples of similar signage in other communities and
emphasized the importance of visibility and accessibility.
The Board reached consensus to provide general placement recommendations and to allow City staff
and the Public Works Department to determine the final locations based on visibility, safety, and site
conditions. No formal motion was required.
4. Updates regarding the Parks & Recreation Rules & Regulations – Rules & Regulation Overview
Ms. Moore presented a revised draft ordinance amending Chapter 276 of the Trenton Codified
Ordinances. The amendment reflects prior Board action to allow one regular City Council member to
serve on the Parks and Recreation Board, with City Council alternates eligible to serve in the absence of
the City Council member.
Board members reviewed the ordinance language and confirmed that it accurately reflected prior
discussion and intent. Additional clarification was provided regarding the Board’s advisory role within the
Recreation Division and its relationship to City Council.
Ms. Hale stated that the board will need to make a motion to City Council an ordinance amending
chapter 276 of the codified ordinance. A motion was made by Ms. Butts and seconded by Mr.
Melloh. All voted Yea.
Ms. Moore provided an overview of the Parks and Recreation Board’s purpose, duties, and operating
procedures. Topics included the Board’s advisory role to City Council and the City Manager, meeting
attendance requirements, expectations for member conduct, and staff support responsibilities.
Ms. Moore clarified the distinction between recommendations that should be directed to City Council
versus those that may be directed to the City Manager, particularly for event-related decisions and
expenditures within the City Manager’s spending authority. The Board discussed the process for
selecting the Chair and Vice Chair at the first meeting in January and acknowledged upcoming changes
to Board membership.
NEW BUSINESS
1. 2026 Community Celebration Dates
Ms. Moore presented proposed dates and descriptions for the 2026 Community Celebrations calendar.
Proposed changes included combining Arbor Day and Earth Day into a single event at Community Park,
extending Springfest hours, introducing a Fourth of July-related event titled “Let Freedom BOOM!
Trenton’s America 250 Celebration,” renaming Sundown Jamboree to “Pickin’ in the Park,” adjusting Fall
Fest timing to account for weather and daylight, modifying the 5K start time, and scheduling four Movies
in the Park during the summer months.
Board members discussed event timing, coordination with school calendars, anticipated attendance, and
logistical considerations such as vendors, staffing, and community impact. Members expressed
appreciation for Ms. Moore’s planning efforts and supported the proposed schedule as a strong
framework for future event planning.
Ms. Hale stated that the board will need to make a motion to recommend to City Manager, Marcos Nichols,
the 2026 Community Celebration Dates. Motion was made by Ms. Lucas and seconded by Ms. Butts.
All voted Yea.
REPORTS BY THE BOARD OR CITY ADMINISTRATORS
Kelsey Moore, Events & Volunteer Coordinator
1. 2025-2026 Community Celebrations Yearly Budget Overview
Ms. Moore presented a detailed report on the 2025 Community Celebrations budget, including
sponsorship revenue, vendor income, and overall expenditures. Ms. Moore reported that events
concluded under budget and provided a breakdown of costs and revenues for individual events.
Ms. Moore then presented a proposed 2026 Community Celebrations budget request of $175,000,
explaining anticipated event costs, enhancements, and the role of sponsorships in expanding
programming. Discussion included sponsorship strategies, potential fundraising concepts, comparisons
to other communities, and the growth of programs such as Active and Ageless. Ms. Moore emphasized
that the budget request was preliminary and subject to City Council approval.
Board members asked questions and provided feedback on sponsorship outreach, event sustainability,
and long-term planning. No formal action was taken.
Board members thanked staff for their work, welcomed new and prospective Board members, and
expressed appreciation for increased community engagement. Holiday greetings were shared among
members.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting will be held on January 13, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. A motion to adjourn the meeting
was made by Mr. Croucher and seconded by Ms. Butts. All voted Yea.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 7:18 P.M.
MOTION NO 14-2026
A MOTION, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO PURCHASE TWO
KUBOTA ZD 1211 ZERO TURN MOWERS FORM ZIMMER TRACTOR
FOR THIRTY SEVEN THOUSAND FOURTY FOUR DOLLARS AND
FOURTY FOUR CENTS. ($37,044.44) AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS RELATED
THERETO.
Motioned by __________ authorizing the City Manager to Purchase two Kubota ZD 1211 zero
turn mowers the amount of $37,044.44 and authorizing the City Manager to sign all documents
related thereto.
Seconded by: _________________________
Upon Roll Call, the Vote Resulted as follows:
AYES:__________
NAYS:__________
ABSENT:__________
CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that
the foregoing Motion No.14-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the
City of Trenton, Ohio on the 22nd day of January, 2026, and that at least a majority of the
elected members voted in the affirmative on said motion.
__________________________________
Clerk of Council
Staff Report
City Council Meeting Staff Report
Report to:
The Honorable Mayor Ryan Perry & Members of the City Council
Report From:
Cody Truster, Fleet Maintenance Supervisor
Agenda Item: A motion to purchase two Kubota ZD 1211 zero-turn mowers
Ordinance/Resolution/Motion
Motion
Contract
Fiscal Impact
1st Reading Date:
Strategic Goals
nd
Connected Community
2 Reading Date:
rd
Economic Vitality
3 Reading Date:
Operational Excellence
Motion Date: 1/22/26
Strong & Secure Neighborhoods
Resolution Date:
General Operations
Public Hearing Date:
Contract Required: Additional Document(s) Attached:
Please see further, more detailed information regarding the
Budgeted: Yes
fiscal impact in the summary section of this report.
Expenditure:
$37,044.44
Source Funds:
234-1907-53105
Policy Issue
Does the City Council wish to approve the Motion to authorize the City Manager to purchase two new
Kubota ZD 1211 zero-turn mowers from Zimmer Tractor in the amount of $37,044.44 for the Public
Works Department?
Policy Alternative
City Council may choose not to approve the motion to purchase the Kubota zero-turn mowers. If the
purchase is not approved, the Public Works Department will continue to maintain parks and right-ofways using the equipment currently available.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends that Council receive this report and approve the Motion Authorizing the City
Manager to purchase two Kubota ZD 1211 mowers.
Statutory/Policy Authority
• Article III, Legislative Action, of the Charter of the City of Trenton.
• Chapter 208.02 Contracting Authority and Procedures
• Charter Section 7 .04 Contracting Procedures
Fiscal Impact Summary
These two mowers were originally requested during the 2026 Budget meeting with City Manager
Marcos Nichols and Finance Director Matthew Mesisklis. Adding two new units to the mowing fleet
will reduce downtime and repair expenses associated with the aging equipment currently in service.
Staff Report
Background Information
Due to the city’s continued growth and development, the amount of green space associated with
new projects has increased significantly. The City currently operates three zero-turn mowers to
maintain these areas and associated right-of-ways. Purchasing two new mowers will allow the City to
retire and sell the oldest unit in the fleet while also adding the additional capacity needed to support
ongoing and expanding maintenance responsibilities.
Attached Information
• Kubota zero turn Quote
461 BREADEN DR
MONROE, OH, 45050
Phone: (513) 539-0539
ZIMMERTRACTOR.COM
Invoice #
Date
Time
003-0
1/7/2026
2:58 PM
PO #:
Document #:
Due Date:
CITY OF TRENTON (5139889296)
11 EAST STATE ST
Salesman:
Ship Via:
Terms:
003-27948
2/10/2026
Brian Petri
Net 10th
Ship To:
Wholegood Estimate
Reprint
TRENTON
OH
45067
Contact: CITY OF TRENTON, James (513) 988-9296
Item Number
Description
WG ON ORDER
KUBOTA ZD1211-3-60
Qty
Price
Amount
2.00
$22,849.00
$45,698.00
$45,698.00
$45,698.00
WG ON ORDER
ASSEMBLY FREIGHT PDI
2.00
$662.50
$1,325.00
$1,325.00
$1,325.00
WG ON ORDER
DOC FEE
1.00
$75.00
$75.00
$75.00
$75.00
WG ON ORDER
SOURCEWELL DISCOUNT
-2.00
$5,026.78 ($10,053.56)
($10,053.56)
($10,053.56)
Cash
$0.00
Check/Check#
$0.00
CC/CC Type
$0.00
On Acct.
$0.00
Disc
Subtotal
Mfg Credit
$0.00
CIT
$0.00
Extended
Amount
Back
Order
Deposit
$0.00
Drop
Ship
Other
$0.00
Summary of Charges
$0.00 Taxable
$37,044.44 Non-Taxable
$37,044.44 Subtotal
$0.00 Sales Tax
Price on this sales quote is an estimate and is subject to being increased.
Final pricing and applicable programs will be established at delivery.
Order cancellation and refund of earnest money deposits are available in the event of a price
increase between the date of the quote and the date of delivery.
Special order equipment that are non-stocking items will not be eligible for refunds of deposits
made on equipment.
Customer Signature
Sales
Tax
Date
$37,044.44 Total
$0.00 Amount Tendered
$0.00 Change Due
Exempt Tax Cert #:
Expiration Date:
Printed:1/7/2026 3:16 PM
Page 1 of 1 Pages
MOTION NO 15-2026
A MOTION TO APPOINT JOSH VINSON TO FILL THE VACANCY ON THE BOARD
OF ZONING APPEALS FOR A 4 YEAR TERM ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2029
Motioned by __________ to appoint Josh Vinson to fill the vacancy on the Board of Zoning
Appeals for a 4 year term ending December 31 2029
Seconded by: _________________________
Upon Roll Call, the Vote Resulted as follows:
AYES:__________
NAYS:__________
ABSENT:__________
CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that the
foregoing Motion No. 15-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the 22nd day of January 2026 and that at least a majority of the elected members
voted in the affirmative on said motion.
__________________________________
Clerk of Council
MOTION NO 16-2026
A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
PURCHASE AGREEMENT WITH TIM LALLY CHEVROLET, FOR THE
PURPOSE OF PURCHASING A 2025 CHEVROLET TAHOE POLICE VEHICLE IN
AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED FIFTY-THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS AND
ZERO CENTS ($53,000.00) FOR USE BY THE CITY OF TRENTON POLICE
DEPARTMENT AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL
DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO.
Motioned by __________ authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Tim
Lally Chevrolet, for the purpose of purchasing a 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe police vehicle in an
amount not to exceed fifty-three thousand dollars and zero cents ($53,000.00) for use by the
City of Trenton Police Department and authorizing the City Manager to sign all documents
related thereto.
Seconded by: _________________________
Upon Roll Call, the Vote Resulted as follows:
AYES:__________
NAYS:__________
ABSENT:__________
CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that the
foregoing Motion No. 16-2016 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the 22nd day of January, 2026, and that at least a majority of the elected members
voted in the affirmative on said motion.
__________________________________
Clerk of Council
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2025 TAHOE 4WD POLICE VEHICLE
PULL THIS STRIP TO EXPOSE ADHESIVE
EXTERIOR: BLACK
INTERIOR: JET BLACK
ENGINE, 5.3L ECOTEC3 V8
TRANSMISSION, 10-SPEED AUTO
Visit us at www.chevy.com
STANDARD EQUIPMENT
STANDARD
EQUIPMENT
• TRAILERING EQUIPMENT
ITEMS FEATURED BELOW ARE INCLUDED AT NO EXTRA CHARGE IN
THE STANDARD VEHICLE PRICE SHOWN
ITEMS
BELOW
ARE INCLUDED
AT NO EXTRA CHARGE IN
• AIRFEATURED
CLEANER,
HIGH
CAPACITY
THE STANDARD VEHICLE PRICE SHOWN
OWNER BENEFITS
CONNECTIVITY & TECHNOLOGY
OWNER
BENEFITS
• 8 YEARS ONSTAR BASICS
• TRAILERING
EQUIPMENT
UNIVERSAL VEHICLE
MODULE
• AIR CLEANER, HIGH CAPACITY
EXTERIOR
CONNECTIVITY
• LED HEADLAMPS& &TECHNOLOGY
TAILLAMPS
•SEE
3 YEAR
/ 36,000 MILE*
ONSTAR.COM
FOR TERMS
BUMPER-TO-BUMPER
• KEYLESS OPEN, LOCK & START
WARRANTY
•LIMITED
TWO POWER
OUTLETS, 120 VOLT
•• 517.7"
YEAR/60,000
MILE* COLOR LCD
DIAG ADVANCED
POWERTRAIN
LIMITED
DISPLAY WITH GOOGLEWARRANTY,
BUILT-IN
ROADSIDE
ASSISTANCE
& NAV
COMPATIBILITY
INCLUDING
COURTESY
TRANSPORTATION
CAPABILITY, CONNECTED APPS
•• FIRST
MAINTENANCE
VISIT AND
WIRELESS
APPLE CARPLAY
**WHICHEVER
COMES
FIRST
WIRELESS ANDROID AUTO FOR
SEE
CHEVROLET.COM
COMPATIBLE
PHONES OR DEALER
FOR
TERMS,
DETAILS
& LIMITS
• KEYLESS START
DAYTIME
RUNNING
• 8LED
YEARS
ONSTAR
BASICSLAMPS
•SEE
HIGHONSTAR.COM
APPROACH FRONT
FASCIA
FOR TERMS
POWER ADJUSTABLE
• KEYLESS
OPEN, LOCKOUTSIDE
& START
HEATED
•MIRRORS,
TWO POWER
OUTLETS, 120 VOLT
RAIN SENSING
• 17.7"
DIAG ADVANCED COLOR LCD
WINDSHIELD
DISPLAY
WITHWIPERS
GOOGLE BUILT-IN
COMPATIBILITY INCLUDING NAV
SAFETY & SECURITY
CAPABILITY, CONNECTED APPS
• HD SURROUND VISION
• WIRELESS APPLE CARPLAY AND
• REAR PARK ASSIST
WIRELESS ANDROID AUTO FOR
• REAR PEDESTRIAN ALERT
COMPATIBLE PHONES
• THEFT DETERRENT SYSTEM
• KEYLESS START
PERFORMANCE & MECHANICAL
PERFORMANCE
& MECHANICAL
INTERIOR
INTERIOR
• MECHANICAL LIMITED SLIP
DIFFERENTIAL
• 20" STEEL WHEEL
• TRANSFER CASE SINGLE SPEED
• FRONT SKID PLATE
• ELECTRONIC PRECISION SHIFT
•• MECHANICAL
LIMITED SLIP
TRI-ZONE AUTOMATIC
HVAC
DIFFERENTIAL
• FRONT 40/20/40 SPLIT BENCH
•• 20"
STEEL
WHEEL
SECOND
ROW
60/40 SPLIT
•FOLDING
TRANSFER
CASE SINGLE SPEED
BENCH
•• FLOOR
FRONT COVERING,
SKID PLATE
•RUBBERIZED-VINYL
ELECTRONIC PRECISION SHIFT
• 3 YEAR / 36,000 MILE*
BUMPER-TO-BUMPER
LIMITED WARRANTY
• 5 YEAR/60,000 MILE*
POWERTRAIN LIMITED WARRANTY,
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE &
COURTESY TRANSPORTATION
• FIRST MAINTENANCE VISIT
**WHICHEVER COMES FIRST
SEE CHEVROLET.COM OR DEALER
FOR TERMS, DETAILS & LIMITS
•PILLAR
UNIVERSAL
VEHICLE
MODULELEFT
MOUNTED
SPOTLAMP,
800.00
FRONT AUXILIARY DOME LAMP
170.00
EXTERIOR
WIRING, GRILLE LAMPS/SPEAKERS
92.00
• LED HEADLAMPS & TAILLAMPS
WIRING, HORN/SIRENS CIRCUIT
55.00
• LED DAYTIME RUNNING LAMPS
DAYTIME RUNNING LAMPS/AUTO
50.00
• HIGH APPROACH FRONT FASCIA
HEADLAMP DELETE
• POWER ADJUSTABLE OUTSIDE
SINGLE KEY SYSTEM
25.00
MIRRORS, HEATED
• RAIN SENSING
TOTAL OPTIONS
$1,192.00
WINDSHIELD WIPERS
TOTAL VEHICLE & OPTIONS
$56,692.00
DESTINATION
CHARGE
1,995.00
SAFETY
& SECURITY
• HD SURROUND VISION
• REAR PARK
ASSIST
$58,687.00
TOTAL
VEHICLE
PRICE*
• REAR PEDESTRIAN ALERT
• THEFT DETERRENT SYSTEM
MANUFACTURER'S SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE
$55,500.00
STANDARD VEHICLE PRICE
• TRI-ZONE AUTOMATIC HVAC
• FRONT 40/20/40 SPLIT BENCH
OPTIONS
& PRICING
• SECOND ROW
60/40 SPLIT
FOLDING BENCH
OPTIONS INSTALLED BY THE MANUFACTURER (MAY REPLACE
• FLOOREQUIPMENT
COVERING,
STANDARD
SHOWN)
RUBBERIZED-VINYL
Fuel Economy and Environment
15
combined city/hwy
6.7
Standard SUVs range from 12 to 115
MPG. The best vehicle rates 140 MPGe.
14
city
18
highway
You
$8,000
Frontal
Crash
more in fuel costs
over 5 years
compared to the
average new vehicle.
gallons per 100 miles
STANDARD VEHICLE PRICE
$3,500
Fuel Economy & Greenhouse Gas Rating (tailpipe only)
G
G
C
1
2
10
Smog Rating (tailpipe only)
1
Best
6
Actual results will vary for many reasons, including driving conditions and how you drive and maintain
your vehicle. The average new vehicle gets 28 MPG and costs $9,500 to fuel over 5 years. Cost estimates
are based on 15,000 miles per year at $3.50 per gallon. MPGe is miles per gasoline gallon equivalent.
Vehicle emissions are a significant cause of climate change and smog.
fueleconomy.gov
Calculate personalized estimates and compare vehicles
$58,687.00
$55,500.00
OPTIONS INSTALLED BY THE MANUFACTURER (MAY REPLACE
STANDARD EQUIPMENT SHOWN)
Not Rated
Driver
Passenger
10
Best
Not Rated
Not Rated
Based on the risk of injury in a frontal impact.
Should ONLY be compared to other vehicles of similar size and weight.
Side
Crash
Front seat
Rear seat
Rollover
Based on the risk of rollover in a single-vehicle crash.
This vehicle emits 590 grams CO2 per mile. The best emits 0 grams per mile (tailpipe only). Producing and
distributing fuel also create emissions; learn more at fueleconomy.gov.
Smartphone
QR Code™
cost
TOTAL VEHICLE PRICE*
OPTIONS & PRICING
Based on the risk of injury in a side impact.
Annual fuel
$1,192.00
$56,692.00
1,995.00
Based on the combined ratings of frontal, side and rollover.
Should ONLY be compared to other vehicles of similar size and weight.
spend
25.00
MANUFACTURER'S SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE
Overall Vehicle Score
MPG
800.00
170.00
92.00
55.00
50.00
TOTAL OPTIONS
TOTAL VEHICLE & OPTIONS
DESTINATION CHARGE
GOVERNMENT 5-STAR SAFETY RATINGS
TAHOE 4WD
Fuel Economy
PILLAR MOUNTED SPOTLAMP, LEFT
FRONT AUXILIARY DOME LAMP
WIRING, GRILLE LAMPS/SPEAKERS
WIRING, HORN/SIRENS CIRCUIT
DAYTIME RUNNING LAMPS/AUTO
HEADLAMP DELETE
SINGLE KEY SYSTEM
FOR VEHICLES IN THIS CARLINE:
U.S./CANADIAN PARTS CONTENT: 37%
MAJOR SOURCES OF FOREIGN PARTS
CONTENT: MEXICO 37%
This label has been applied
pursuant to Federal law – Do not
remove prior to delivery to the
ultimate purchaser. *Includes
Manufacturer's Recommended
Pre–Delivery Service. Does not
include dealer installed options
and accessories not listed above,
local taxes or license fees.
NOTE: PARTS CONTENT DOES NOT INCLUDE FINAL
ASSEMBLY, DISTRIBUTION, OR OTHER NON-PARTS COSTS.
FOR THIS VEHICLE:
FINAL ASSEMBLY POINT:
ARLINGTON, TX U.S.A.
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN:
ENGINE: UNITED STATES
TRANSMISSION: UNITED STATES
) with 5 being the highest.
Not Rated
Not Rated
Star ratings range from 1 to 5 stars (
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
www.safercar.gov or 1-888-327-4236
Equipped with the safety and
security of OnStar ®.
Visit onstar.com for details.
onstar.com/privacy
PARTS CONTENT INFORMATION
ORDER NO DXNVD6
SALES CODE C
SALES MODEL CODE CK10706
DEALER NO 28306
FINAL ASSEMBLY:
ARLINGTON, TX
U.S.A.
VIN 1GNS6UED2SR286501
REISSUE
DEALER TO WHOM DELIVERED
TIM LALLY CHEVROLET, INC.
24999 MILES RD
WARRENSVILLE HEIGHTS, OH 44128-5406
© 2009 General Motors LLC
GMLBL_PROD_0043 – 10/23/2023
24999 Miles Rd Suite 1
Warrensville Heights OH 44128
www.timlallySAVE.com
Tim Lally Chevrolet S.A.V.E
Speciality.Advanced.Vehicle.Equipment
Customer Information
Department
Trenton PD
Contact Name
LT. David Rosenfelder
Address
City, State, Zip
Phone
513-678-6888
Alt Phone
Email
[email protected]
Notes: 2025 State Contract RSI024953 (vehicle only)
Description
CC10706 - Tahoe 2X4
9C1 - Police Pursuit Package 4X4
6C7 - Red and White Large Dome Light
6E2 - Key Common - MUST HAVE AMF
6J3 - Grille Lamps and Siren Speaker Wiring
6J4 - Horn Siren Circuit Wiring
9G8 - Delete Daytime Driving-Auto Lights
AMF - 4 Additional Key Fob enabling/program
Date
Sales Rep
Phone
Email
Quote #
Cust #
12/31/2025
Jamie Onion
440-343-3160
[email protected]
Price
$48,536.00
$2,850.00
$170.00
$25.00
$92.00
$55.00
$50.00
$75.00
Items Ordered Item Total
1
$48,536.00
1
$2,850.00
1
$170.00
1
$25.00
1
$92.00
1
$55.00
1
$50.00
1
$75.00
Subtotal
$51,853.00
Tax
Total
$51,853.00
Staff Report
January 22nd , 2026
City Council Meeting Staff Report
Report to:
The Honorable Mayor Ryan Perry & Members of the City Council
Report From:
Patrick J Carr, Chief of Police
Agenda Item: Motion to authorize the purchase of a 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe Police vehicle from Tim
Lally Chevrolet for police department operations in an amount not to exceed $53,000.
Ordinance/Resolution/Motion
Motion
Contract
Fiscal Impact
1st Reading Date:
2nd Reading Date:
3rd Reading Date:
Motion Date: January 22nd 2026
Resolution Date:
Public Hearing Date:
Contract Required:
Additional Document(s)
Attached: Yes
Please see further, more detailed
Budgeted: Yes
information regarding the fiscal impact in
Expenditure $53,000.00
the summary section of this report.
Source Funds: PD 218-3103
Policy Issue
Does City Council wish to approve the purchase?
Policy Alternative
City Council can choose to not approve the purchase.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends that Council approve this purchase.
Statutory/Policy Authority
• Article III, Legislative Action, of the Charter of the City of Trenton.
Fiscal Impact Summary
Fiscal impact to the City of Trenton for the vehicles is noted above as $52,000.00
Background Information
The purchase of this vehicle is budgeted for 2026 and is in line with our retention schedule for patrol
vehicles. This is a remaining 2025 model-year vehicle that is available, which is approximately
$3700 cheaper that than 2026 models.
Attached Information
Quote and vehicle specifications
RESOLUTION NO 01-2026
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE BUTLER COUNTY AUDITOR TO ADVANCE TO
THE FINANCE DIRECTOR OF THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO, TAXES ASSESSED AND
COLLECTED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO.
WHEREAS, Ohio Revised Code Section 321.34 provides that the Council of an Ohio municipal
corporation may request from the appropriate County Auditor advance payment of tax funds assessed
and collected for and on behalf of such municipal corporation; and
WHEREAS, the aforesaid statute requires that such request be made by a formal resolution and that
such advance payment of tax funds be paid to the Finance Director of the municipal corporation;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Trenton, County of
Butler, Ohio:
SECTION 1. That Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 321.34, the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio hereby request that the Butler County Auditor advance the Finance
Director of the City of Trenton, Ohio taxes assessed in 2025 for and on behalf of the
City of Trenton and collected in 2026.
SECTION 2. This Resolution serves as an appropriate request to distribute advances of collected tax
funds at all various points as determined by the County Auditor in Calendar Year 2026.
SECTION 3. This Resolution shall take effect and be in full force from and after the earliest period
allowed by law.
PASSED
AYES
ABSENT
First Reading
Second Reading
Ryan Perry
NAYS
Mayor
Rules Suspended
AYES
NAYS_____
ABSENT
ATTEST:
Stanislav Beresford_________________________
CLERK OF COUNCIL
CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that the
foregoing Resolution No. 01-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the 5th day of February, 2026 and that at least two-thirds of the elected members
voted in the affirmative on said motion.
__________________________________
Clerk of Council
Staff Report
City Council Meeting Staff Report
Report to:
The Honorable Mayor Ryan Perry & Members of the City Council
Report From:
Matthew L. Mesisklis, Finance Director
Agenda Item:
Resolution for the Advance of Property Taxes from Butler County
Ordinance/Resolution/Motion
Resolution
1st Reading Date:
2nd Reading Date:
Motion Date:
Resolution Date: 2/5/26
Public Hearing Date:
Contract
Contract Required: No
Fiscal Impact
Budgeted:
Revenue: ~$200,000
Destination Fund: General
STRATEGIC GOALS
Connected Community
Economic Vitality
Operational Excellence
Strong & Secure Neighborhood
General Operations
Additional Document(s)
Attached:
Please see further, more detailed
information regarding the fiscal impact in
the summary section of this report.
Policy Issue
Does City Council wish to adopt: Resolution requesting a Tax Advance from the Butler County Auditor?
Policy Alternative
The City Council can choose to not approve. Approval Recommended for faster receipt of revenues
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends that Council receive this report resolve request the County auditor to remit funds
collected for City levies.
Statutory/Policy Authority
• ORC and the Ordinances of the City of Trenton.
Fiscal Impact Summary
This resolution allows the city to receive a portion of all due property taxes about a month faster than
normal, allowing for additional liquidity and interest revenue compared to waiting for the full
distribution.
Background Information
This resolution is routinely passed in February and has no fees associated with it.
ORDINANCE NO 01- 2026
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A LEASE AGREEMENT WITH CHRIS PROESCHEL
FARMS, LLC, FOR THE LEASE OF REAL PROPERTY OWNED BY THE CITY
OF TRENTON, OHIO, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY
WHEREAS, the City of Trenton, Ohio (hereinafter referred to as the “City”), owns real property
identified as Butler County Auditor Parcel No. E2310-008-000-012 (hereinafter referred to as the
“Property”); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Codified Ordinance 208.04, City Council may sell or lease real property
owned by the City if such is no longer needed for a municipal purpose; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the Property will not be needed for any municipal purpose
during the term of the proposed lease described herein; and
WHEREAS, the City Manager has negotiated the terms and conditions of a Lease Agreement (the
“Lease Agreement”) with Chris Proeschel Farms, LLC, an Ohio limited liability company (the
“Lessee”), for the lease of approximately 132 tillable acres of the Property for agricultural use during
the 2026 crop year, said Lease Agreement being attached hereto as Exhibit A; and
WHEREAS, under the Lease Agreement, the Lessee will lease a portion of the Property, as defined
therein, for the period beginning March 1, 2026, and ending December 31, 2026, at a rental rate of
Two Hundred Fifty Dollars ($250.00) per acre; and
WHEREAS, City Council finds and determines that approval of the Lease Agreement with Lessee on
the terms negotiated is necessary and in the best interest of the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Trenton, County of
Butler, Ohio:
SECTION 1. That the City Council hereby declares that the Property identified as Butler County
Parcel No. E2310-008-000-012 is not needed for any municipal purpose for the
duration of the 2026 crop year lease term.
SECTION 2. That this Council hereby finds that the rental rate of Two Hundred Fifty Dollars
($250.00) per acre for the portion of the Property as defined and provided in the Lease
Agreement represents fair market value for the agricultural use of the Property and is
in the best interest of the City.
SECTION 3. That the Lease Agreement between the City of Trenton and Chris Proeschel Farms,
LLC, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A, for the lease of the defined
portion of the Property for the 2026 crop year, is hereby approved.
SECTION 4. That this Council hereby directs the City Manager, Assistant City Manager, and
Finance Director to take all necessary administrative actions to implement and carry
out the terms of the Lease Agreement.
SECTION 5. That this Council hereby ratifies and confirms all prior actions taken by the City
Manager, Assistant City Manager, and Finance Director in connection with the
negotiation and preparation of the Lease Agreement.
SECTION 6. All formal actions of this Council related to this Ordinance and all deliberations of
Council and of any of its committees that resulted in such formal action were in
meetings open to the public in compliance with all legal requirements, including
Section 121.22 of the Revised Code.
ORDINANCE NO 01- 2026
SECTION 7. That this Ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after the earliest
period allowed by law.
PASSED
AYES
ABSENT
First Reading
Second Reading
Ryan Perry
NAYS
Mayor
Rules Suspended
AYES
NAYS_____
ABSENT
ATTEST:
Stanislav Beresford _________________________
CLERK OF COUNCIL
CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that the
foregoing Ordinance No. 01-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the fifth day of February, 2026 and that a majority of the elected members voted in
the affirmative on said motion.
__________________________________
Clerk of Council
ORDINANCE NO 01- 2026
Exhibit A
ORDINANCE NO 02- 2026
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A LEASE AGREEMENT WITH ALEX PROESCHEL
FOR THE LEASE OF REAL PROPERTY OWNED BY THE CITY OF TRENTON,
OHIO, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY
WHEREAS, the City of Trenton, Ohio (hereinafter referred to as the “City”), owns real property
identified as Butler County Auditor Parcel No. E2310-009-000-012 (hereinafter referred to as the
“Property”); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Codified Ordinance 208.04, City Council may sell or lease real property
owned by the City if such is no longer needed for a municipal purpose; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the Property will not be needed for any municipal purpose
during the term of the proposed lease described herein; and
WHEREAS, the City Manager has negotiated the terms and conditions of a Lease Agreement (the
“Lease Agreement”) with Alex Proeschel (the “Lessee”), for the lease of approximately 44 tillable
acres of the Property for agricultural use during the 2026 crop year, said Lease Agreement being
attached hereto as Exhibit A; and
WHEREAS, under the Lease Agreement, the Lessee will lease a portion of the Property, as defined
therein, for the period beginning March 1, 2026, and ending December 31, 2026, at a rental rate of
Two Hundred Fifty Dollars ($250.00) per acre; and
WHEREAS, City Council finds and determines that approval of the Lease Agreement with Lessee on
the terms negotiated is necessary and in the best interest of the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Trenton, County of
Butler, Ohio:
SECTION 1. That the City Council hereby declares that the Property identified as Butler County
Parcel No. E2310-009-000-012 is not needed for any municipal purpose for the
duration of the 2026 crop year lease term.
SECTION 2. That this Council hereby finds that the rental rate of Two Hundred Fifty Dollars
($250.00) per acre for the portion of the Property as defined and provided in the Lease
Agreement represents fair market value for the agricultural use of the Property and is
in the best interest of the City.
SECTION 3. That the Lease Agreement between the City of Trenton and Alex Proeschel,
substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A, for the lease of the defined
portion of the Property for the 2026 crop year, is hereby approved.
SECTION 4. That this Council hereby directs the City Manager, Assistant City Manager, and
Finance Director to take all necessary administrative actions to implement and carry
out the terms of the Lease Agreement.
SECTION 5. That this Council hereby ratifies and confirms all prior actions taken by the City
Manager, Assistant City Manager, and Finance Director in connection with the
negotiation and preparation of the Lease Agreement.
SECTION 6. All formal actions of this Council related to this Ordinance and all deliberations of
Council and of any of its committees that resulted in such formal action were in
meetings open to the public in compliance with all legal requirements, including
Section 121.22 of the Revised Code.
ORDINANCE NO 02- 2026
SECTION 7. That this Ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after the earliest
period allowed by law.
PASSED
AYES
ABSENT
First Reading
Second Reading
Ryan Perry
NAYS
Mayor
Rules Suspended
AYES
NAYS_____
ABSENT
ATTEST:
Stanislav Beresford _________________________
CLERK OF COUNCIL
CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that the
foregoing Ordinance No. 02-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the fifth day of February, 2026 and that a majority of the elected members voted in
the affirmative on said motion.
__________________________________
Clerk of Council
ORDINANCE NO 02- 2026
Exhibit A
ORDINANCE NO 03- 2026
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE FIRST
EXTENSION AND MODIFICATION OF THE PROSECUTION SERVICES AGREEMENT
BETWEEN THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO AND THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN, OHIO,
AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY
WHEREAS, in September 2022, the City of Trenton, Ohio (hereinafter “Trenton”) and the City of
Middletown, Ohio (hereinafter “Middletown”) entered into a Prosecution Services Agreement (the
“Agreement”) whereby Middletown, through its Department of Law, agreed to provide certain
prosecutorial services mandated under the Ohio Revised Code, for the City of Trenton in the
Middletown Municipal Court; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Agreement, Middletown serves as the prosecuting attorney for Trenton
in the Middletown Municipal Court and provides related prosecutorial services, including but not
limited to representation of the City in cases before the Middletown Municipal Court, advising
Trenton’s police officers regarding pending and potential criminal charges, communicating with
victims of offenses to ensure compliance with victims’ rights laws, seeking restitution-related
probation conditions when appropriate, and providing law enforcement training to Trenton’s officers;
and
WHEREAS, Trenton and Middletown have negotiated a proposed First Extension and Modification
of the Prosecution Services Agreement (the “Extension Agreement”) to extend the term of the
Agreement for an additional five (5) years, from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2030, and to
modify the compensation for said prosecutorial services to an annual amount of Thirty Thousand
Dollars ($30,000.00) for the year 2026 and Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000.00) for each of the years
2027, 2028, 2029, and 2030; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of Trenton has determined that the First Extension and Modification of
the Prosecution Services Agreement is in the best interest of the City; and
WHEREAS, this Council finds and determines that it is necessary to approve and ratify the execution
of the Extension Agreement and to authorize further administrative actions as needed to carry out the
Agreement as extended and ensure the continued provision of prosecution services for the City of
Trenton.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Trenton, County of
Butler, Ohio:
SECTION 1. That the First Extension and Modification of the Prosecution Services Agreement
between the City of Trenton and the City of Middletown, attached hereto as Exhibit A,
is hereby approved.
SECTION 2. That the City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute the Extension
Agreement and to take all necessary administrative actions to implement and carry out
said Extension Agreement, including in order to ensure the continued provision of
prosecutorial services in accordance with the Agreement.
SECTION 3. That this Council hereby ratifies and confirms all prior actions taken by the City
Manager and any other City officials in connection with negotiating and preparing the
Extension Agreement, and any actions taken to date to facilitate the continued
provision of prosecution services under the Agreement.
SECTION 4. All formal actions of this Council related to this Ordinance and all deliberations of
Council and of any of its committees that resulted in such formal action were in
ORDINANCE NO 03- 2026
meetings open to the public in compliance with all legal requirements, including
Section 121.22 of the Revised Code.
SECTION 5. That this Ordinance is hereby declared to be an emergency measure, necessary for the
immediate preservation of the public peace, health, safety, and welfare of the City, and
to ensure uninterrupted prosecutorial services for the City of Trenton in Middletown
Municipal Court, and shall take effect immediately upon its passage.
PASSED
AYES
ABSENT
First Reading
Second Reading
Ryan Perry
NAYS
Mayor
Rules Suspended
AYES
NAYS_____
ABSENT
ATTEST:
Stanislav Beresford _________________________
CLERK OF COUNCIL
CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that the
foregoing Ordinance No. 03-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the 22nd day of January, 2026 and that at least two-thirds of the elected members
voted in the affirmative on said motion.
__________________________________
Clerk of Council
ORDINANCE NO 03- 2026
Exhibit A
FIRST EXTENSION AND AMENDMENT OF
PROSECUTION SERVICES AGREEMENT
This First Extension and Modification of Prosecution Services Agreement (the “Extension”)
is entered into this ____ day of _______________, 2025 (the “Effective Date”), by and between the
City of Middletown, Ohio (“Middletown”) and the City of Trenton, Ohio (“Trenton”) (Middletown
and Trenton are collectively referred to herein as the “Parties”). Any capitalized terms not otherwise
defined herein shall have the same meaning in this Extension as defined in the Agreement.
WHEREAS, the Parties entered into the Agreement in September of 2022;
WHEREAS, Section 12 of the Agreement authorizes the Parties to amend the Agreement upon
mutual written agreement of the Parties;
WHEREAS, Section 4 of the Agreement authorizes the Parties to extend the Agreement upon
mutual written agreement of the Parties;
WHEREAS, the Parties desire to extend the Agreement for an additional five years,
commencing on January 1, 2026 and ending on December 31, 2030, and to increase the annual
compensation paid to Middletown from Trenton.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises, covenants, and agreements
contained here, the Parties agree as follows:
Section 1: The Parties agree to amend Section 2 of the Agreement as follows:
Prosecution Services. Middletown, through its Law Department, shall serve as the designated
prosecuting attorney for Trenton for purposes of providing the Trenton Prosecution Services before
the Middletown Municipal Court. This includes all services reasonably necessary and incidental to
performance of the Trenton Prosecution Services, including but not limited to: communications with
Trenton police officers and other officials for purposes of prosecuting criminal offenses included in
the Trenton Prosecution Services; advise Trenton police officers regarding pending and/or potential
criminal charges filed in the Municipal Court; communications with victims of criminal offenses
included in the Trenton Prosecution Services as necessary for compliance with Marsy’s Law
prosecutor requirements and any other applicable State or federal law; seeking probation in matters
involving restitution or similar remedies, when appropriate; and training Trenton police officers on
law enforcement matters to the extent such training is offered or conducted for Middletown police
officers.
Section 2: The Parties agree to amend Section 3 of the Agreement as follows:
Compensation. As compensation for the Trenton Prosecution Services, Trenton shall pay
Middletown an annual sum as follows by January 31 of each year of the Agreement:
2026 - $30,000.00
2027 - $50,000.00
2028 - $50,000.00
2029 - $50,000.00
2030 - $50,000.00
Section 3: The Parties agree to extend the Term of the Agreement, such that Middletown
agrees to provide the Trenton Prosecuting Services for an additional term starting on January 1, 2026,
and continuing through December 31, 2030.
Section 4. By executing this Extension, the Parties hereby agree that the Agreement shall
continue in full force and effect, under the same terms and conditions, unless otherwise modified
herein.
CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO
CITY OF MIDDLETOWN
____________________________
Marcos Nichols, City Manager
____________________________
Ashley Combs, City Manager
Date: ______________________
Date: _______________________
Approved as to form:
________________________
Law Director
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- Agenda Watch · Aug 17, 2026
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- Aug 17, 2026 Filed on the Docket
- Aug 17, 2026 Full document archived — public record
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