On the agenda: Trenton meeting — data center (Jul 9)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 9th, 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. TBD
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
PRESENTATIONS
APPROVAL OF MINUTES

1. Minutes of the June 11th, 2026, Special Council Meeting
2. Minutes of the June 14th, 2026, Special Council Meeting
3. Minutes of the June 18th, 2026, Council Work Session
4. Minutes of the June 18th, 2026, Regular Council Meeting
CONSENT AGENDA
CORRESPONDENCE
AUDIENCE OF PUBLIC
UNFINISHED BUSINESS

1. A RESOLUTION ADOPTING A STATEMENT OF SERVICES THE CITY OF
TRENTON, OHIO, WILL PROVIDE TO THE PROPOSED ANNEXATION INTO THE
CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO OF 601.589 +/- ACRES OF LAND, LOCATED IN ST.
CLAIR TOWNSHIP AND MADISION TOWNSHIP, BUTLER COUNTY, OHIO, AND
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (Second Reading)
2. A RESOLUTION CONSENTING TO THE ANNEXATION TO THE CITY OF TRENTON,
OHIO CERTAIN TERRITORY PROPOSED TO BE SO ANNEXED PURSUANT TO AN
ANNEXATION PETITION FILED WITH THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS OF BUTLER COUNTY, OHIO, AS PROVIDED FOR IN OHIO
REVISED CODE SECTION 709.024, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.(Second
Reading)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 9th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
3. AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE EDITING AND INCLUSION OF CERTAIN
ORDINANCES AS PARTS OF THE VARIOUS COMPONENT CODES OF THE
CODIFIED ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF NEW MATTER IN
THE UPDATED AND REVISED CODIFIED ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR THE
PUBLICATION OF SUCH NEW MATTER; REPEALING ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT THEREWITH; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
(Second Reading)
4. AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A
COMMUNITY REINVESTEMENT AREA AGREEMENT AND A COMPENSATION
AGREEMENT, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY (Second Reading)
PUBLIC HEARINGS
NEW BUSINESS

1. A MOTION TO AUTHORIZE THE CLERK OF COUNCIL TO CERITFY TO THE OHIO
DEPARTMENT OF LIQUOR CONTROL THE TRENTON CITY COUNCIL DOES NOT
REQUEST A HEARING ON THE APPLICATION FOR A LIQUOR PERMIT TO 2
BROTHER LLC 4 EAST ST TRENTON OH 45067.
2. A MOTION TO REVISE THE CITY OF TRENTON STRATEGIC PILLARS; PUBLIC
SAFETY AND OPERATIONS, STRONG AND SECURE NEIGHBORHOODS,
CONNECTED COMMUNITY, ECONOMIC VITALITY AND TO INCLUDE AN
ADDITIONAL PILLAR, RESPONSIBLE INFRASTRUCTURE.
3. A MOTION, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN
AGREEMENT WITH THE KLEINGERS GROUP FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICE
RELATED TO THE CITY OF TRENTONS 2026 LOCAL PAVING PROGRAM AT A
TOTAL COST OF THIRTY-FIVE THOUSAND ($35,000.00) AND TO EXECUTE ALL
DOCUMENTS NECESSARY TO IMPLEMENT THE AGREEMENT.
LEGISLATION

1. A RESOLUTION CREATING A CITIZENS COMMITTEE FOR PLANNING AND
ZONING ORDINANCES. (First Reading)
2. A RESOLUTION RESTRICTING RATE INCREASES ON WATER AND SEWER
CUSTOMERS OF THE CITY OF TRENTON USING LESS THAN 8,000 GALLONS PER
MONTH UNTIL JANUARY 1, 2032. (First Reading)
REPORTS
AUDIENCE OF COUNCIL
ADJOURNMENT

City of Trenton
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 11th, 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. TBD
ROLL CALL
Present: Perry, Croucher, Proffitt, Nichols, Proffitt, Montgomery, Butts (6)
Absent: Roark
(1)

Motion –To Excuse Mr. Roark from Tonight’s Council Meeting
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Butts_______ 2nd Mr. Vice Mayor Croucher
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Proffitt, Butts
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Roark

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

EXECUTIVE SESSION REQUEST

1. A MOTION TO GO INTO EXECTUIVE SESSION TO CONSIDER THE
APPOINTMENT / EMPLOYMENT / DISMISSAL / DISCIPLINE / PROMOTION /
DEMOTION / COMPENSATION OF A PUBLIC EMPLOYEE OR OFFICIAL UNDER
ORC 121.22 AND TO CONFER WITH LEGAL COUNSEL.
Motion –To Go Into Executive Session
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Butts_______ 2nd Vice Mayor Croucher Time: 7:33 PM
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Proffitt, Butts
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Roark

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

Motion –That the executive session be adjourned
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery_______ 2nd Ms. Butts Time: 7:33 PM
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Proffitt, Butts
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Roark

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

City of Trenton
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 11th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
ADJOURNMENT

Motion - That the meeting be adjourned.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery____ 2nd Vice Mayor Croucher_ Time:10:41 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Proffitt, Butts
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Roark

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

City of Trenton
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 14th, 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. TBD
ROLL CALL
Present: Perry, Croucher, Nichols, Montgomery, Butts
Absent: Roark, Proffitt

(5)
(2)

Motion –To Excuse Mr. Roark and Mr. Proffitt from Tonight’s Council Meeting
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Butts_______ 2nd Mr. Vice Mayor Croucher
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Roark, Proffitt

(5)
(0)
(0)
(2)

EXECUTIVE SESSION REQUEST

1. A MOTION TO GO INTO EXECTUIVE SESSION TO CONSIDER THE APPOINTMENT /
EMPLOYMENT / DISMISSAL / DISCIPLINE / PROMOTION / DEMOTION / COMPENSATION
OF A PUBLIC EMPLOYEE OR OFFICIAL UNDER ORC 121.22 AND TO CONFER WITH LEGAL
COUNSEL.
a. Prior to executive session Mayor Perry indicated that, due to his personal
relationship to an interested party in the employee relations situation, he would
enter executive session merely to relay information as presented to him, not
engage in discussion, and exit the executive session to allow Vice Mayor
Croucher to conduct executive session with the other 3 members. Mr. Mesisklis
explained that, while usually Council executive session does not expect action
upon reconvening, today was different, as there was an agenda item up for
discussion. He stated the front door would remain unlocked and council
chambers open until the meeting concluded
Motion –To Go Into Executive Session
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Butts_______ 2nd Vice Mayor Croucher Time: 3:06 PM
YAYS: Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Perry
ABSENT: Roark, Proffitt

(4)
(0)
(1)
(2)

City of Trenton
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 14th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Motion –That the executive session be adjourned
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery_______ 2nd Ms. Butts Time: 3:51 PM
YAYS: Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Perry
ABSENT: Roark, Proffitt

(4)
(0)
(1)
(2)

NEW BUSINESS

1. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO CONDUCT INTERNAL
INVESTIGATION AND HIRE INDEPENDENT LEGAL COUNSEL IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED $10,000.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Butts
YAYS:
NAYS: Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts
ABSTAIN: Perry
ABSENT: Roark, Proffitt

(0)
(4)
(1)
(2)

ADJOURNMENT

Motion - That the meeting be adjourned.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Butts____ 2nd Ms. Montgomery_ Time:3:53 P.M.
YAYS: Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Perry
ABSENT: Roark, Proffitt

(4)
(0)
(1)
(2)

City Council Work Session Agenda MINUTES
June 18th, 2026
6:30 pm
1. Finance Director, Matthew Mesisklis
a. Discuss Correspondence
i. May Financial Snapshot
1. Mr. Mesisklis stated that he would address one item from the
financial snapshot, specifically income tax. He stated that the
City has been closely monitoring the differences between
receivables and the net revenue comparison from the prior year
under RITA. Mr. Mesisklis stated that the primary reason
income tax is approximately 19% behind year-to-date has been
identified. He explained that withholding remains stable,
meaning businesses are still paying their required withholding,
but due to changes in the Ohio Revised Code, RITA is not able
to follow up on non-filers until after the extension due date in
October. He stated that, historically, the City had been able to
follow up with non-filers sooner after April 15, but RITA now has
to wait until October 15 due to those changes. Mr. Mesisklis
further explained that after October 15, RITA will have data
based on federal taxable income and can pursue the matter
through its legal program the following year. He stated that
there is a six-year statute of limitations to go back and claim
missed revenues. Mr. Mesisklis stated that he expects the City
to improve by the end of the year and be less than 19% behind.
He also noted that the Attorney General’s Office was aggressive
in the first quarter of the prior year, and while the City expected
a drop-off this year, that drop-off has occurred. Mr. Mesisklis
stated that income tax is slightly below budget, but the City is
above budget in a few other areas. He also stated that, with a
majority of interest payments being incorporated back into the
General Fund, the City will be able to meet its General Fund
budget for the year without any changes in operations. Mr.
Mesisklis stated that he will provide a more in-depth report in
the June report, which will represent the halfway point of the
year.

b. Discuss New Business
i. A motion to adopt the Fiscal Year 2027 Tax Budget (Exhibit A) and to
authorize the City Finance Director to submit the same to the Butler
County Budget Commission.
1. Mr. Mesisklis presented the motion to discuss and adopt the
2027 Fiscal Year Tax Budget. He explained that the tax budget
is procedural and does not approve spending for 2027. Rather,
it reflects the City’s first-half property tax settlements,
anticipated revenues, status quo operating expenses, and
available resources. Mr. Mesisklis stated that the tax budget is
submitted to the County Budget Commission, which reviews the
City’s projected revenues, cash on hand, and expected
resources, and then issues a certificate of resources that
establishes the City’s spending limit as part of the operating
budget process. He clarified that although expenses are shown
in the tax budget, Council is not approving those expenses
through this action. Mr. Mesisklis stated that the submitted
total revenues are $25,831,187, with expenses projected at
$26,433,786. Current projections show no residential water or
sewer rate increases, a 3.6% increase for larger users, a 4%
garbage rate increase based on expected Rumpke increases,
and a 1% street light increase. He stated that, aside from
approximately $400,000 for water meter replacements, large
capital items are not expected in 2027 because most major
projects are included in the 2025 and 2026 budgets. Mr.
Mesisklis stated that the General Fund is projected to have a
$500,000 surplus, mostly due to anticipated income tax
stabilization through the RITA legal program, recapturing
revenues currently being delayed, and bringing interest
revenues back primarily into the General Fund. He also stated
that, due to bargaining contracts, the General Fund police
subsidy is expected to increase by $360,000 in 2027.
Additionally, to maintain fire operations without a new levy
request, the General Fund is expected to contribute $600,000
in 2027, compared to the recent annual contribution of
$300,000. Mr. Mesisklis stated that, after accounting for the
increased General Fund fire subsidy and continued EMS
funding, the Fire Levy Fund is projected to have a $140,000
surplus. He explained that the tax budget is the City’s first look
at planned operations for 2027 based on current revenue
trends, planned capital projects, and standard inflationary
expenses, and that it must be approved by the County Budget
Commission before the City begins the operating budget
process. Mayor asked about the projected payroll from the
facility, noting that the number appeared to average

approximately $42,000 per employee. Mr. Mesisklis clarified
that the $5 million figure represents the annual payroll the
developer is comfortable pledging, not the income tax the
developer would pay. He stated that the pledge appears low
compared to actual payrolls he has reviewed from other data
centers, where starting salaries are often around $85,000 and
many positions exceed $100,000. Mr. Mesisklis stated that the
developer likely pledged conservatively to avoid a situation
where it commits to a higher number and fails to meet it, similar
to concerns surrounding prior development agreements. He
stated that the City expects the actual payroll to be significantly
higher than the pledged amount, based on other data centers
he has reviewed. Mayor asked whether information could be
provided at the next meeting showing what could reasonably be
expected, and Mr. Mesisklis stated that he would provide that
information. Mr. Ziepfel also noted that the CRA agreement
includes a pledge for a portion of labor hours to be performed
by workers employed under a collective bargaining agreement.
He stated that the pledged percentage is modest,
approximately 6.5%, for similar reasons, as the City and
developer do not want to create a pledge that could be
breached. Mayor asked whether additional information could be
provided regarding typical labor numbers, and Mr. Ziepfel
stated that he would see what information could be obtained.
2. City Attorney, Nick Ziepfel
a. Discuss Legislation
i. A resolution adopting a statement of services the City of Trenton, Ohio,
will provide to the proposed annexation into the City of Trenton, Ohio of
601.589 +/- acres of land, located in St. Clair Township and Madison
Township, Butler County, Ohio, and declaring an emergency. (First
Reading)
1. Mr. Ziepfel addressed Council regarding several items on the
agenda, beginning with two resolutions related to the proposed
annexation territory that has been discussed over the past month
and a half to two months. He stated that the first resolution was
a statement of services for the potential annexation territory and
explained that it outlines the services the City would provide to
the territory if it is annexed. Mr. Ziepfel stated that the legislation
is required under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 709 and that the
deadline for the municipality to pass the resolution as part of the
annexation process is very quick, occurring within approximately
20 to 25 days after the petition is filed. He explained that, in
order to allow Council to have two full readings of the legislation,
the first reading was being held that evening, with the petition

anticipated to be filed before the July 9 meeting and a second
reading expected at that meeting. Mr. Ziepfel stated that he had
previously discussed the resolution with Council and reviewed
what it means through prior presentation materials. He then
addressed the second resolution, which consents to the
proposed annexation, and explained that Council had already
approved moving forward with filing the petition. He stated that,
under Chapter 709 of the Ohio Revised Code, within 30 days
after the filing of an annexation petition, the municipality must
pass a resolution either consenting or objecting to the
annexation. Mr. Ziepfel stated that both resolutions were before
Council for first reading and would return for second reading at
the July 9 meeting. Mayor noted that, in the past, annexations
had been done on one reading by emergency due to time
constraints, and Mr. Ziepfel confirmed that was correct, stating
that this approach allows Council to have two actual readings
rather than suspending the required readings. Mr. Ziepfel then
addressed the ordinance approving a Community Reinvestment
Area agreement and related compensation agreement. He
explained that the Ohio Community Reinvestment Area, or CRA,
program is an economic development tool contained in the Ohio
Revised Code and administered by municipalities and county
governments to provide real property tax exemptions for property
owners who renovate existing buildings or construct new
buildings. He stated that the City adopted its CRA program
approximately 30 years ago and has amended it over the years
as the Ohio legislature has made changes to the program. Mr.
Ziepfel explained that new structures and improvements meeting
the minimum requirements are eligible for tax exemption,
including residential, commercial, and industrial structures. He
noted that residential exemptions are generally approved
administratively for up to 100% of the increase in improved
property value if the owner applies, while industrial or
commercial improvements must be separately approved by
Council and are not automatically granted. Mr. Ziepfel stated that
the project-specific legislation before Council would authorize the
City to enter into a CRA agreement with Prologis for the proposed
development. He stated that the CRA agreement would provide
a 15-year exemption on 75% of the qualifying new structures,
which is expressly permitted under the Ohio Revised Code and
the City’s CRA program, while the land and remaining taxable
value would continue to be taxed at 100%. He stated that the
agreement contemplates one or two data center buildings, with
the first two buildings each projected to be a minimum of
200,000 square feet and at least $600 million in cost. Mr.
Ziepfel further stated that the project is estimated to create at

least 120 new full-time jobs with an annual payroll of
approximately $5 million. Mr. Ziepfel explained that the
compensation agreement is a companion document to the CRA
agreement and is a voluntary agreement that Prologis has
agreed to enter into, which is above and beyond what is required
under the CRA agreement. He stated that Prologis agreed to
provide $1 million to the applicable school districts, split
between Edgewood and Butler Tech, as well as $200,000 to the
City’s Water Capital Improvement Fund. He stated that the
developer is not required to make those payments and that they
were negotiated by the City on behalf of the school districts. Mr.
Ziepfel then turned the discussion over to Mr. Mesisklis to
address the financial details. Mr. Mesisklis stated that, under the
agreement, as a contingency upon Council approving the CRA,
the tap fees for four buildings would be paid upfront to the City,
even though the CRA specifically calls out two buildings. He
stated that the tap fees are based on peak capacity rather than
typical daily usage expected from similar development. Mr.
Mesisklis explained that, although the CRA agreement states the
tap fees will be paid upon passage, they had already been paid,
and the City deposited approximately $2.7 million in water and
sewer tap fees into its STAR Ohio accounts, where the funds will
be held for future water infrastructure payments, particularly
payments related to the new water tower. Mr. Mesisklis stated
that the City had projected that the water tower project, even with
a subsidized OWDA loan at a relatively low interest rate, would
have required approximately a 3.6% annual residential rate
increase over the next five years. He stated that because the tap
fees were paid upfront and are being held and invested for that
project, the City does not anticipate residential water and sewer
rate increases for the next five years, which represents a
significant savings for residents. Mr. Mesisklis stated that the
City still intends to increase rates for higher-end users and larger
industrial users as much as possible in order to keep the
residential side flat. He clarified that this does not mean a
resident’s entire utility bill will not increase, as refuse collection
costs through Rumpke may increase during future negotiations,
but the residential water and sewer side is being held flat. Mayor
asked who decides water and sewer rate increases, and Mr.
Mesisklis explained that, prior to his time with the City, rate
increases were tied directly to the Consumer Price Index and
occurred automatically. He stated that when CPI reached 9.1%,
Council was not interested in applying that level of increase, and
Council provided administrative authority allowing the Finance
Director to choose a rate increase below CPI based on
projections. He stated that, over that period, there had been one

1% increase, and that past rate increases can be viewed on the
City website. Mr. Mesisklis stated that the most recent CPI report
was 4.2%, and under the prior structure, the City would have
been bound to increase rates by that amount, but because of the
payment received, the residential rate is being held flat. Mayor
stated that, to put residents at ease, Council may want to
consider freezing residential rate increases for five years so that
any increase would have to come back before Council. Mr.
Ziepfel stated that he would review whether that would need to
be done by ordinance or resolution and report back to Council.
Mayor stated that he has heard concerns from residents that
water rates will increase and would like residential rates to
remain in Council’s hands for at least the next five years. Mr.
Mesisklis also noted that one of the recitals in the draft
agreement referenced a future TIF resolution and separate tax
increment financing agreement, but stated that this was from an
older version of the document and would be corrected before a
vote. He explained that the City had initially considered a TIF
agreement for the site, which would have allowed the unabated
portion of property taxes to be used for public infrastructure
directly serving the site, but the City was no longer interested in
that arrangement and had successfully removed it from
negotiations. Mr. Mesisklis stated that there would not be a TIF
agreement and that, while the City already has a TIF resolution,
the spending of those funds would be at Council’s discretion
through the normal budgeting process and could be used for
items such as water tower debt, existing or future fire station
bonds, or park improvements that generally serve the area. Mr.
Mesisklis then returned to the CRA and compensation
agreement, stating that the City had initially sought $1 million for
Edgewood Schools, but after further review, the City determined
it could not discriminate between school districts that serve the
area. He stated that the payment must be split proportionally
between the districts, resulting in approximately $940,000 to
Edgewood and the remaining amount to Butler Tech. Mr.
Mesisklis stated that this had been communicated to Edgewood
Schools, that he had dropped off the legal notice, and that the
City has a good working relationship with the school treasurer.
He stated that the payment is expected within 30 days of
passage, before the beginning of the next school year.
ii. A resolution consenting to the annexation to the City of Trenton, Ohio
certain territory proposed to be so annexed pursuant to an annexation
petition filed with the Board of County Commissioners of Butler County,
Ohio, as provided for in Ohio Revised Code Section 709.024, and
declaring an emergency. (First Reading)

iii. An Ordinance Approving And Authorizing The Execution Of A Community
Reinvestment Area Agreement and declaring an emergency. (First
Reading)
3. Clerk of Council Stanislav Beresford
a. Discuss Legislation
i. An ordinance approving the editing and inclusion of certain ordinances
as parts of the various component codes of the codified ordinances;
providing for the adoption of new matter in the updated and revised
codified ordinances; providing for the publication of such new matter;
repealing ordinances and resolutions in conflict therewith; and declaring
an emergency. (First Reading)
1. Mr. Beresford stated that Council had before it an ordinance
approving the editing and inclusion of certain ordinances as
parts of the various component codes of the codified ordinances,
providing for the adoption of new matter in the updated and
revised codified ordinances, providing for the publication of such
new matter, repealing ordinances and resolutions in conflict
therewith, and declaring an emergency. Mr. Beresford explained
that, for newer members of Council, the item is essentially a
basic housekeeping matter. He stated that Council had already
originally passed the ordinances, and this ordinance would allow
the City to update the codified ordinance book in his office and
the City’s website. He clarified that the ordinance does not enact
any new policy, but simply updates the codified ordinances to
reflect previously passed legislation, generally from July 17,
2025 through March 6, 2026. Mr. Beresford also noted that
there were two public hearings. The first involved an ordinance
amending Chapter 620 to increase the number of chickens and
quail permitted within residential districts from six to twelve and
to allow waste from those animals to be used as fertilizer on site.
He stated that the item was before Council for a second reading.
The second involved an ordinance amending Section 1258.18
regarding mobile food units. Mr. Beresford explained that the
current City Code requires a food truck to have a mobile food
service license from Butler County, but Ohio does not use that
exact license name. He stated that Ohio recognizes two main
license types: a Mobile Retail Food Establishment and a Mobile
Food Service Operation. Mr. Beresford explained that the
amendment is a cleanup item that updates the language so the
City Code matches state law and avoids confusion during
enforcement.

4. City Manager, Marcos Nichols
a. Discuss Motion
i. A motion authorizing the City manager to enter into an agreement with
Tele Vac Environmental for emergency sewer repairs in the amount of
$138,775 and further authorizing the city manager to sign all required
documents related thereto.
1. City Manager Nichols stated that, as Mr. Mesisklis mentioned,
the agenda included a motion authorizing $138,775 for
emergency sewer repairs. He explained that a sewer main
backup occurred on Martin Court, and after reviewing the
available options, Service Department staff recommended
lining the sanitary sewer lines as the least destructive
approach. City Manager Nichols stated that this method would
avoid excavating the road and going between two houses to
replace the sanitary sewer line.
b. Project Updates
i. City Manager Nichols provided project updates beginning with Trenton
Square and the municipal building. He stated that the roof structure is
being installed, various concrete slabs are being poured throughout
the building, and block masons are installing interior walls. He stated
that parking lot and second entrance construction are expected to
begin late next week once the crane leaves the site, and that the crane
is expected to be gone next week after structural steel is completed.
City Manager Nichols stated that parking lot light foundations have
been installed and that the City is still awaiting soil sample results for
Basin 3. He also stated that Miller Valentine has assured the City that
electric service can be run to the veterans site location at the park and
will be stubbed out so that concrete will not need to be removed later.
Regarding off-site improvements, City Manager Nichols stated that
traffic pole foundations have been completed, traffic pole conduits and
pull boxes are in place, the slotted drain installation is complete, and
paving is tentatively expected for June 25. Regarding the splash pad,
City Manager Nichols stated that final electric has been installed,
landscape sprinklers are functioning and on a timer, and two benches
have not yet been installed because the City is waiting on the surface
mount bases to arrive. He stated that PSS, the subcontractor
responsible for installing the structures, has been working at another
site and has had scheduling conflicts completing that job. City
Manager Nichols stated that PSS was expected to be on site that day,
but after driving by several times, he had not observed any work being
completed. He stated that he followed up and sent an email to Mr.
Ziepfel to review the bid documents regarding liquidated damages for
the project because, at this point, the City does not have a projected
completion date and needs to obtain one. City Manager Nichols stated
that the elevated water tower is at 48 feet high. He also stated that

Founders Park electric should be complete the following week, with
Cougar Electric waiting on Duke Energy to complete the new service
drop to the meter location. City Manager Nichols stated that the City is
still obtaining quotes for the sidewalk on Hamilton Trenton Road and
that staff is also having conversations with One Church regarding the
St. Clair Township portion. He stated that the old farmhouse and barn
are being demolished and that the City’s process is to obtain
permission from One Church and then have conversations with St.
Clair Township. Regarding the Home Avenue ballfield dirt, City Manager
Nichols stated that the dirt arrived the previous day and is expected to
be installed the following week.
c. Executive Session Request
i. To Consider confidential information that is directly related to a request
for economic development assistance under any provision identified in
Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)(8), or that involves public infrastructure
improvements or the extension of utility services that are directly related
to an economic development project, as necessary to protect the
interests of the applicant or the possible investment or expenditure of
public funds to be made in connection with the economic development
project and to confer with legal counsel
ii. Purchase of property for public purposes.
5. Council Comments and Questions.
a. Councilman Nichols - Councilman Nichols asked City Manager Nichols
whether there had been any update regarding the study to link and retime the
two intersection signals. City Manager Nichols stated that he did not believe
there had been an update within the past week or couple of weeks, but that
the City could certainly follow up. He stated that the engineering group had
been working on putting items together so the signals could be programmed
together and installed. Councilman Nichols also noted that a traffic count had
been completed, which he had observed.
b. Mayor Perry - Mayor Perry stated that Vice Mayor Croucher had brought
forward an idea that he thought was a good one and should be discussed with
the rest of Council. Mayor Perry explained that Vice Mayor Croucher had come
to him approximately one month prior regarding several issues being raised by
residents, including whether licensed golf carts should be permitted on City
roads, concerns from a food truck owner regarding the City’s food truck
permitting process, and recent comments regarding the City’s fence
ordinances. Mayor Perry stated that, as the City continues to change rapidly,
Council has discussed reviewing the City’s zoning regulations for a long time,
and he believes it is time to form a committee of citizens to review the zoning
code and advise Council on where changes may be needed to bring the code
up to date. He stated that there have been multiple complaints and that much

of the zoning code has not been updated in years. Mayor Perry stated that he
could not think of a better way to proceed than forming a committee to review
the zoning regulations and provide recommendations to Council. City manager
Nichols asked whether the intent was to create the committee as an ad hoc
committee or to amend the codified ordinances and create it as a formal
board. Mayor Perry stated that the initial idea was to create an ad hoc
committee for a set amount of time, rather than a permanent committee, and
suggested six months as an example. He stated that committee members
would be selected, would meet to discuss the issues, would have someone
chair the committee to maintain order, and would vote on recommended
changes to bring back to Council. Mayor Perry compared the idea to the
veterans committee, but with a limited duration, noting that if the committee
works well and Council wishes to continue it, Council could consider making it
permanent, but if it serves its purpose, it could simply expire. City Manager
Nichols asked whether the committee would be a subcommittee of Council or
a subcommittee of the Planning Commission, similar to how the veterans
committee was a subcommittee of the parks board, so he could understand
the organizational structure for drafting purposes. Councilman Nichols stated
that he thought the committee was a good idea, provided residents
understand that not every recommendation they make will necessarily be
adopted because zoning involves legal requirements and considerations that
committee members may not fully know during their discussions. He stated
that public input is important because residents know the community well,
and noted that while Council had previously discussed hiring an outside firm,
an outside firm would not know the community as well as residents, Council,
and the City’s existing committees. Discussion continued regarding whether
the committee should report to Council or the Planning Commission. Mayor
Perry stated that he was somewhat in between the two because any zoning
changes would ultimately need to go through the Planning Commission
regardless, but he believed the committee should report to Council because
Council would refer zoning matters to the Planning Commission as part of the
normal process. Mr. Mesisklis asked whether Council would be interested in a
professional facilitator or a resident-led board. Mayor Perry stated that the
idea was for a board of residents, though there was discussion that a
facilitator could be someone from City staff, an outside party, or a member of
the Planning Commission. Mayor Perry stated that having the Planning
Commission chair serve as facilitator could be an option, but emphasized that
the discussion was still general and that Council would need to discuss it
further before making final decisions. City Manager Nichols stated that staff
could draft a resolution or similar document setting the parameters of the
committee and bring it back to Council for further discussion.

Motion – The Work Session Meeting Be Adjourned
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Mr. Roark_ Time: 7:09 PM
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Proffitt
a.

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

Council motioned unanimously to move to executive session.

Motion – That executive session be adjourned, and the meeting be adjourned.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher _______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery_ Time: 7:29 PM
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Proffitt

*Agenda is subject to change

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 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. Councilwomn Montgomery
ROLL CALL
Present: Perry, Croucher, Nichols, Butts, Roark, Montgomery
Absent: Proffitt

(6)
(1)

Motion –To Excuse Mr. Proffitt from Tonight’s Council Meeting
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Butts 2nd Vice Mayor Croucher_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Proffitt

PRESENTATIONS

1. B-Safe 25th Anniversary Proclamation
2. Citizens Academy Participant Recognition

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES

1. Minutes of the June 4th Council Work Session
2. Minutes of the June 4th Regular Council Meeting
Motion –To Approve The Minutes of the May 16th Council Workshop
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Mr. Nichols_______ 2nd Vice Mayor Croucher_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols
NAYS:
ABSTAIN: Butts, Roark
ABSENT: Proffitt

(4)
(0)
(2)
(1)

CONSENT AGENDA
CORRESPONDENCE

May Financial Snapshot (The Entire Snapshot Can Be Viewed Below These Minutes)
AUDIENCE OF PUBLIC
Prior to the Audience of the Public portion of the meeting, Mayor explained the rules for public
comments. He stated that, in order to keep the meeting to a reasonable expense to the City and
preserve decorum, personal attacks against members of the public or Council would not be
permitted. Comments should be addressed to Council as a whole and not to individual
members. Mayor stated that comments are open to all taxpayers of Trenton, and that individuals
who signed up using their legal name would be given the first opportunity to speak. He explained
that the person speaking would have the floor during their time at the lectern, and no one else
should speak during that time. After the speaker has finished, Council or staff may answer any
questions if they choose to do so. Mayor further stated that, while there is no set time limit,
speakers should respect the time so that everyone has an opportunity to speak, and the
Audience of the Public portion would be kept to a reasonable amount of time. He also noted that
Council and staff would not answer theoretical questions. If litigation is mentioned, the matter
would be referred directly to Mr. Ziepfel, and no comment would be made by staff. Mayor stated
that, once each speaker’s comments concluded, he would ask Council if they wished to respond
to anything that was said.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Amy Humbert – Ms. Humbert addressed Council and stated that she had several points and
questions to raise. She apologized for not attending prior meetings, stating that she has had
other commitments, and noted that some of her questions may have been addressed during the
work session. Ms. Humbert first commented on codified ordinances being changed after a
resident has purchased property, using the example of someone buying a home with plans to
build a fence, only to later find that the ordinance had changed and the fence could no longer be
built. She stated that she understood Council may be creating a committee regarding this issue
and said she thought that was a good idea, as changing requirements after someone has
purchased property can make it difficult for residents living in a subdivision. Ms. Humbert then
commented on the rules for public comments and stated that, while she understands the need
for decorum, she feels the rules may subdue her First Amendment rights if she wanted to
address one specific Council member, whether to compliment something that person said or to
express concern about something that person said. She stated that requiring comments to be
directed to Council as a whole lumps Council together as one entity and, in her opinion, implies
that individual Council members do not have their own thoughts, questions, ideas, or concerns.
Ms. Humbert then stated that she noticed the word “emergency” appeared several times on the
agenda and questioned why multiple ordinances needed to be declared emergencies. She
stated that, in her understanding, emergency legislation can be enacted and started right away,
and questioned why items before Council needed to be agreed upon and enacted immediately
rather than allowing citizens the opportunity to hear about the items and have them voted on at
the next reading. She stated that it seems there are a lot of emergencies and executive
sessions, which does not appear to show the transparency Council is trying to build. Ms.
Humbert also expressed concern that the City government is bringing large industry into the
community and trying to make Trenton an industrial powerhouse, but may be forgetting the
residents who made Trenton what it is today, describing it as a small town with a big heart. She
stated that many residents have made Trenton their home for 20 or 30 years, or even for
generations, and that it appears the City wants to make Trenton what it wants rather than what
the community wants. She stated that, based on the past eight or nine months, she has only
heard a couple of people publicly support the data center, and it does not seem that everyone
wants it, but that it is being built regardless of the concerns being raised. Ms. Humbert stated
that her message to people interested in moving to Trenton would be to consider what Council is
doing to its long-term residents because history can repeat itself, and that new residents may
face the same issues in 20 years. She added that, as the town grows, Trenton may not be a
small town much longer and Council may need to think of a different motto. Ms. Humbert then
addressed Item Number Five on the agenda and stated that, as a citizen, she found the
language difficult to understand and described it as a “word salad.” She stated that her
interpretation was that Council was creating an ordinance that would allow it to approve, edit,
and include other ordinances and component codes, approve new matters, add them to
updated and revised ordinances, print new publications without anyone having to know what the
ordinances are, and reject ordinances and resolutions that conflict with what Council wants, all
under an emergency because “everything in Trenton seems to be an emergency.” After Ms.
Humbert concluded, Mr. Ziepfel explained that the words “declaring an emergency” are required
under the City Charter for any ordinance that, upon passage, Council may adopt and begin
operating under. He explained that this applies to resolutions as well and that the language
must be included in the title. Mr. Ziepfel clarified that declaring an emergency does not mean
the legislation is being passed that night, and that the City Charter requires two readings of all
legislation unless Council separately votes to suspend the required readings and adopt the
legislation that evening. He stated that he did not believe any of the legislation on the agenda
was up for that procedure and that there would be a second reading of the legislation at the July
9 meeting. Mr. Ziepfel further explained that Item Number Five related to technical code

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
updates adopted through American Legal Publishing, which updates the City’s standard
ordinances that mirror applicable sections of the Ohio Revised Code. He stated that the item
does not include substantive changes, but rather incorporates and updates the City’s code with
the technical updates provided through American Legal Publishing. Mr. Beresford then explained
the item in more general terms, stating that it is a basic housekeeping item involving the City’s
codified ordinances and the City’s code book. He explained that, when Council passes
ordinances, those sections need to be updated in the codified ordinance book and on the
website, and this ordinance ensures that previously passed ordinances are reflected in the
updated code. Mr. Beresford stated that the item is done quarterly, that the City had been
waiting on American Legal Publishing for the update, and that the ordinance does not enact
anything that has not already been passed by Council. He explained that the purpose is to notify
American Legal Publishing of the ordinances that have already been passed so the website and
code book accurately reflect the current ordinances of the City of Trenton. Mayor further clarified
that the emergency language does not mean Council is rushing to vote on the item that evening,
but means that once the item is voted on and passed, it does not have the normal 30-day
waiting period and can go into effect immediately. Mayor stated that the wording can be
confusing and noted that declaring an emergency does not eliminate the required number of
readings unless Council takes a separate vote to waive those readings. Mr. Ziepfel also stated
that the specific language declaring an emergency is required by the City Charter.
Angie Markham, 600 South First Street – Ms. Markham Council and stated that it had been an
interesting 10 days in the City, noting that there had been two special Council meetings called, a
lawsuit filed against the City, and a lot of speculation surrounding those matters. Ms. Markham
stated that she was going to discuss some legal matters and understood that Council may not
be able to comment, but hoped Council would listen to her perspective. She stated that she was
reviewing the public-facing information and acknowledged that she did not know what was
discussed in executive session or all of the details behind the matter, but was trying to piece
together, from an outside perspective, what was occurring and explain her concerns. Ms.
Markham referenced the special Council meeting held on Sunday and stated that there had
been a motion to hire independent legal counsel in an amount not to exceed $10,000, which
she believed was voted down. She stated that she had a copy of the lawsuit filed against the City
and the Personnel Board and read portions of it, including that the City terminated the plaintiff’s
employment, the plaintiff timely submitted a written appeal, and the Personnel Board did not
convene proceedings regarding the appeal. She stated that, according to the lawsuit, the City,
through its attorney, denied the plaintiff’s appeal and asserted that the plaintiff occupied an
unclassified position with no right to appeal. Ms. Markham further stated that the plaintiff
sought review and investigation before the State Personnel Board of Review, and that an
administrative law judge issued a report and recommendation dated May 11, 2026. She stated
that the administrative law judge concluded that the plaintiff had a right to appeal to the
Personnel Board, and further found that the Personnel Board itself did not refuse to hear the
appeal because the City Attorney prevented the Personnel Board from hearing it. Ms. Markham
also stated that the administrative law judge found reason to believe that an abuse of removal
power occurred through the deprivation of post-deprivation due process, and that an immediate
and justiciable controversy exists between the parties concerning whether the City Attorney
possessed authority to deny or intercept the plaintiff’s appeal. Ms. Markham stated that, when
considering this information along with the fact that Council had considered hiring independent
legal counsel, she wondered from an outside perspective whether the City Attorney may have
made a mistake somewhere along the way. She stated that, if that was the case and it was part
of the lawsuit, she believed Council should consider outside legal counsel to represent the City
and/or the Personnel Board because it appears to be a conflict of interest if the City Attorney

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
was potentially part of the problem. She clarified that she was not saying anything was
intentional, but that people make mistakes, and if that possibility is part of the lawsuit, she did
not understand why the City would not want to be represented by independent legal counsel.
Ms. Markham recommended that Council reconsider hiring independent legal counsel if
possible. Mayor responded that he would provide as much of the full story as he could and
asked whether he could discuss why the person was terminated. Mayor stated that, if people
were going to know a lot about the matter, they should also know why the person was
terminated and what they did, and stated that the judge denied the matter outright as to
whether the judge had authority to review the case because Trenton is a chartered city. Mayor
stated that the individual had been a friend of his for a long time and that he recused himself
from the matter because of that friendship. Mayor also stated that it was a personnel matter
and should remain private, noting that the City would like to see the individual be able to receive
employment elsewhere, and that if the full case came out, it could endanger the individual’s
ability to obtain employment in another jurisdiction. Councilman Nichols stated that there had
been a lot of discussion online regarding why Council held a meeting on Sunday. He explained
that Council learned of the lawsuit late Friday after business hours, and that the Personnel
Board was concerned because it was named in the lawsuit and wanted an answer as quickly as
possible. Councilman Nichols stated that some members of Council have jobs and that, while he
is retired and can make a meeting anytime, not everyone on Council has that flexibility. He
stated that Sunday afternoon was the earliest time the most members could get together, noting
that one member owns a business and travels out of town, Mrs. Montgomery works in hospice
and may be called out, and Mayor works some second shift. Councilman Nichols stated that
there was no intent to keep anything secret, and that the meeting was held quickly because the
City wanted to know what was going on. He also stated that the family of the former employee
released the lawsuit and sent copies to people, and that it was posted on Facebook before the
City knew anything about it or had been served. Mayor then addressed why the City Attorney
made the decision, stating that when he asked a member of the Personnel Board for copies of
paperwork concerning the matter, the first words on the paperwork were “Personnel Board” and
“City Attorney,” and it indicated that the Personnel Board should have its representation
complete the document. Mayor stated that the matter was addressed to the City Attorney and
the Personnel Board, and noted that Mr. Ziepfel did not receive a paper copy, but received it by
email. Mayor stated that, because the document was addressed to the City Attorney and
Personnel Board, Mr. Ziepfel completed it, and that he was already aware that the position was
unclassified and that a judge had already stated the City did not have authority over the case.
Mayor stated that, therefore, the matter could not be appealed to the Personnel Board because
the individual was an unclassified employee, and that it had already been stated by the judge
that they had no authority or standing in the case. Mr. Ziepfel confirmed that, under the Charter,
the matter was not reviewable. Mayor further stated that, as of the Sunday meeting, the City had
not yet been served with the lawsuit. Mr. Ziepfel stated that the City was not served until Monday
and did not have a paper copy until then, and that the lawsuit had been circulated in the
community before it was given to the City. Mayor stated that the plaintiffs put it online before the
City was served, and that the Personnel Board either saw it online or one member had it emailed
to them from the plaintiff before the City was served. Mayor stated that the Personnel Board
contacted the City and requested an answer because they needed to know what was going on.
He stated that, after the City received the information late Friday afternoon, he began circulating
on Saturday whether Council needed to hold a meeting, and because a 24-hour notice was
required, the meeting had to be set for Sunday, which was the quickest Council could respond to
the Personnel Board.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Chad, Clara Drive – Chad addressed Council and stated that he has lived in Trenton for
approximately nine years, with July marking that anniversary, and had three items to discuss.
First, he addressed code enforcement complaints and stated that he has concerns with the
current process allowing residents to file complaints about neighboring properties anonymously.
He stated that, while he understands the need to report legitimate issues, anonymity can also
create opportunities for repeated complaints that border on harassment. Chad stated that he
has dealt with this personally with a neighbor, explaining that if someone has personal issues
with a neighbor, they can potentially use the City’s complaint system repeatedly without any
accountability. He stated that the property owner has no way of knowing whether they are
dealing with multiple residents reporting a problem or one individual repeatedly making
complaints. He asked Council to consider whether there should be better tracking of repeat
complaints, safeguards against abuse of the system, or greater transparency while still
protecting legitimate complaints. Chad stated that, over the years, his neighbor has found
several ways to harass him, including calling the police about his dogs and making various
complaints, and that over the last two years he believes the neighbor has made a habit of
anonymously complaining about grass and other minor code matters. He stated that these
complaints result in City staff contacting him about issues he was already going to address,
including while he was out of town, and that he would like the City to find a way to record that
information so he can determine whether the same person is repeatedly filing complaints and, if
necessary, address it as harassment. Chad then addressed water quality and stated that he had
previously spoken with Mayor by phone about the issue. He stated that many residents know
Trenton has extremely hard water and that, in his opinion, residents often have to spend
thousands of dollars on water softening systems if they want decent water in their homes. He
stated that, at the same time, residents pay some of the highest water bills in the area, based
on his comparison with friends who live in surrounding communities. Chad stated that he feels
residents are paying a premium rate for a product that many homeowners feel is not great
compared to other areas, and said that many people complain about the water coming from the
tap. He asked whether the City has any plans to improve water quality, reduce hardness levels,
or upgrade the treatment process. Chad then addressed the data center and stated that he
does not support the project and wanted his voice to be heard. He stated that, from what he has
seen, many residents have expressed similar concerns, and that it appears the City is pursuing
an additional annexation that could lead to more data center development. Chad stated that the
argument has been made that if Trenton does not accept the project, it will be built nearby and
residents will have to deal with the impacts without receiving the revenue. He stated that he
does not believe that is a good reason, and that if the majority of residents do not want the
project, Council should represent them and not vote for it, regardless of the revenue involved.
Chad further stated that if revenue is the driving factor, residents deserve a clear explanation of
why the revenue is necessary, how it will be used, and how it will directly benefit the citizens. Mr.
Roark commented that, in his opinion, individuals filing complaints should have to provide their
names because requiring a name may reduce complaints made simply to cause problems. He
stated that he has experienced repeated complaints regarding his trucks and fence and believes
people would be less likely to file complaints if they had to identify themselves. Vice Mayor
Croucher stated that he could also see the other side of the issue, noting that the City does not
want disputes between neighbors to escalate or for the City to be drawn into personal feuds. Mr.
Roark stated that, on the other side, when someone has to face what they are complaining
about, it may not be something worth complaining about. Mayor stated that code enforcement
has been a back-and-forth issue since he has been on Council and likely since there has been a
Council, noting that some residents want active code enforcement while others feel it is too
strict or not strict enough. Mayor stated that the way the City enforces codes could be something
for the proposed citizens committee to review as part of its work on ordinances, zoning, and the

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
zoning book. Mayor stated that he sees both sides of the issue, explaining that a resident may
not want to be identified when reporting a legitimate concern, but another resident may also
face repeated complaints without repercussions. Mayor suggested that the City may be able to
consider some type of internal policing process where the person receiving complaints knows
who is filing them and can determine whether complaints appear legitimate or whether they
appear to be repeated harassment. Vice Mayor Croucher agreed with taking the issue to the
subcommittee. Mayor then addressed the water and data center issues together, stating that
the City’s finances, infrastructure needs, and potential data center revenue are connected.
Mayor stated that the City currently has a fire department with five people on each shift and has
them on one side of the tracks, which allows the City to respond to certain calls without
immediately relying on mutual aid, but that the City cannot continue that level of service without
additional funding. Mayor stated that the City currently provides approximately $300,000 to the
fire department each year and is increasing that amount to approximately $600,000 just to
keep up with rising costs. He stated that inflation affects the City just as it affects residents,
including increased costs for the fire department, police department, employees, and general
City operations. Mayor stated that, when Council looks at rising costs, there are two main ways
to fund the City: through property taxes and tax money from residents, or by growing industrially
and placing more of the tax burden on businesses. Mayor stated that potential revenue from the
developments could be used for items such as adding a second firehouse on the other side of
the tracks, helping seed funding for an overpass, making Wayne Madison two lanes across,
improving infrastructure, and addressing water system needs without having to raise water
rates. Mayor stated that Council’s goal is to provide the same or better services and
infrastructure without additional tax money from residents. He stated that Council hears
residents’ concerns regarding traffic, water systems, fire coverage, response times, and trains
delaying emergency services, but also does not want to pass additional levies. Mayor stated that
this creates a choice between accepting industry on land that is not currently industrialized or
asking taxpayers to take on the tax burden for those projects. Mayor stated that many citizens
want improvements, including himself, but that he also does not want residents to pay more
taxes, especially with inflation, and that this is the choice Council is facing.
Barry Blankenship, 811 South First Street – Mr. Blankenship addressed Council and first
thanked those involved with the citizens class. He stated that he understood he could not call
out names individually, but wanted to recognize the individuals present who helped with the
class, noting that a fifth individual was not present. Mr. Blankenship thanked everyone involved
and thanked City Council for allowing citizens to participate, stating that the class was exciting,
educational, and an honor to be a part of. Mr. Blankenship then addressed the proposed
annexation and stated that Butler County, St. Clair Township, and Madison Township have
incorporated moratoriums on the type of land the City wants to annex. He stated that, by moving
forward with annexation and going against those moratoriums, it makes citizens feel as though
those running the City of Trenton believe they know better or have more power than other cities
or Butler County government. He stated that Council should think carefully about what is
occurring before pushing the issue forward. Mr. Blankenship stated that, based on the way the
CRA is written, the City may receive two buildings but is not guaranteed four. He further stated
that residents have heard numbers change since November, including 360 employees, 150
employees, and 120 employees, while the average per building has also been discussed as 18
employees, which would result in 36 employees if there are only two buildings. He questioned
where the numbers and math add up. Mr. Blankenship also stated that residents have been told
the City can control the project more, but stated that the City cannot control Prologis if
generators are used because the generators were exempted from noise regulations. He stated
that, knowing all of that and knowing that one Council member was absent, he asked Council to

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
table the annexation item until all seven members could be present. He stated that, if the issue
is that important, all seven members should be present at the same time to discuss and
understand what is going on, rather than having separate conversations at different times.
Mayor responded that Council was not voting on anything that evening and that there had been
no plan to vote on the annexation-related items that night. Mayor stated that there was a
misconception regarding what declaring an emergency means, explaining that it means the
legislation goes into effect immediately upon passage, not that Council is voting on it that
evening. Mayor stated that Council has specifically expressed that it does not want to vote on
items with only one reading if at all possible, and that the items were placed on the agenda that
evening to allow for the necessary two readings. Ms. Butts also noted that she also had asked
about the matter for transparency because she was initially confused and thought Council was
voting on it that evening, and appreciated the issue being raised. Mr. Mesisklis then addressed
the financial numbers discussed during the work session and stated that the projections have
remained consistent with what he has presented. He stated that, in terms of the agreement, the
developer does not want to be in the same situation as Carvana and not meet its projections.
Mr. Mesisklis stated that he has reviewed payrolls from other data centers, which show an
$85,000 starting salary and significantly higher headcounts than what is pledged in the initial
agreement. Mayor then addressed moratoriums generally, stating that a moratorium applies to
new zoning and that a moratorium passed by the City of Trenton now would not include the
Prologis facility. Mayor also stated that moratoriums are not permanent or binding in the sense
that they can be lifted or rescinded by the body that enacted them. He explained that, if Butler
County had a large project come in, it could lift its moratorium, and that the City could similarly
pass a moratorium and rescind it at a later meeting. Mayor stated that, as he understands
Commissioner Dixon’s position, the purpose of a moratorium would be to pause and review what
infrastructure is needed in the future, not necessarily to stop development permanently. Mayor
further explained that a moratorium prevents new petitions from being filed during the
moratorium period, but negotiations and background work can still continue behind the scenes,
and once the moratorium is lifted, an applicant may proceed with filing.
Donna Le Fevre - Donna Le Fevre addressed Council and stated that Council was being asked to
approve two emergency annexation resolutions affecting more than 600 acres, as well as a CRA
agreement with Prologis granting a 15-year, 75% property tax exemption, while asking the public
to trust promises that stretch nearly a decade into the future. Ms. Le Fevre asked why Trenton is
committing to expand sanitary sewer, water, police, fire, EMS, road maintenance, zoning, and
stormwater services into land where residents of St. Clair and Madison Townships have
repeatedly said they do not want annexation, when many Trenton residents already believe
those same services are failing them. She stated that Trenton’s water quality is poor, water
pressure is inconsistent, roads need repair, and emergency response is complicated by the
railroad tracks that divide the City. She stated that, when trains block the crossings, fire and
EMS can be delayed from reaching residents, and that this is not hypothetical but a reality many
residents live with. Ms. Le Fevre questioned why the City is expanding services before
demonstrating that the services already provided are meeting the needs of the people who
currently live in Trenton. She then addressed the Prologis agreement, stating that the City is
willing to provide a 15-year, 75% tax exemption, while the agreement acknowledges that it
cannot require Prologis to complete what it starts. She stated that taxpayers are expected to
provide infrastructure and accept traffic, noise, environmental impacts, and long-term costs,
while the developer is not required to finish the project. Ms. Le Fevre stated that the impacts are
not somewhere off in the future, as residents have already seen increased truck traffic,
speeding on roads, and daily consequences of development. She stated that residents are
already living with the impacts, and Council is asking them to accept more. Ms. Le Fevre stated

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
that the community has already been forced to accept one massive data center adjacent to
homes and is now being asked to accept another one next door. She questioned how many data
centers are too many before the City requires comprehensive studies on cumulative impacts to
water, power, infrastructure, noise, traffic, emergency services, and neighboring residents. Ms.
Le Fevre stated that residents have repeatedly been told there are no site plans for the first
project, yet construction is taking place, and she questioned what approvals have been granted
and what documents exist to authorize that work. She stated that residents deserve a clear
explanation because the information they have been given does not match what they see with
their own eyes. Ms. Le Fevre stated that developers will build, collect their profits, and eventually
move on, and that many officials may one day move on as well, but residents will remain in
Trenton raising families, paying taxes, driving on the roads, waiting on trains, relying on public
services, and living with the consequences of the decisions being made. Mayor responded that
he believed a couple of items had been confused, explaining that the ordinance receiving a first
reading to provide services only pertains to the proposed annexation property and does not
relate to the Prologis site. Mayor stated that the Prologis property was annexed into the City
many years ago before Prologis was involved, and that the City has been supplying services to
that property for many years. Mayor stated that Ms. Le Fevre made good points regarding fire,
traffic, and other concerns, and that the revenue being discussed is intended to improve those
issues. He stated that Council recognizes the problems and the City’s financial restraints, and
that while Council wants to solve those problems, the question is where the funding will come
from. Mayor stated that he does not want the funding to come from residents and would rather
have companies moving into Trenton’s industrial areas pay for those improvements. Mayor
stated that he wants improvements such as an overpass, a second firehouse, and water system
improvements, but does not want residents’ water bills or taxes to increase in order to pay for
them. Ms. Butts stated that Council members also live in Trenton and that most have lived there
for a long time. She stated that she has lived in Trenton for 62 years, left to serve in the military,
and returned to settle in the community. Ms. Butts stated that any decision she makes is made
with herself and her family in mind, noting that her mother lives across the street. Another
Council member stated that he has lived in Trenton his entire life, approximately 42 years, and
has family who also live in the community.
Resident - An unknown resident addressed Council and asked, since the number of jobs coming
to the data center has changed, how the City knows whether the individuals hired to work at the
data center will live in Trenton or outside of Trenton. The resident questioned how the City would
account for income tax if a larger percentage of employees lived outside of Trenton, stating that
it would be a reciprocal tax and that the City may not receive 100% of the income tax from those
employees. Mayor responded that the City receives income tax from anyone working in the City,
regardless of where they live. Mayor used himself as an example, stating that he works in
Springdale and pays income tax to Springdale rather than Trenton. He stated that this is where
Trenton runs into issues because there are not enough jobs located within the City, causing the
City to rely more heavily on residents and property taxes to fund City services. Mayor stated that
the more jobs located in Trenton, the more income tax revenue is generated for the City, even if
those employees live elsewhere, and that construction workers working on-site in Trenton would
also pay Trenton income tax for work performed within the City. Mr. Mesisklis further explained
Ohio municipal income tax, stating that individuals generally file where they live and pay where
they work, and that Trenton offers a 100% reciprocal credit. He provided examples of residents
who live in Trenton and work in another municipality, as well as individuals who live elsewhere
and work in Trenton, explaining that income earned in Trenton is subject to Trenton income tax
through employer withholding. Mr. Mesisklis stated that, for the data center, construction
employees working in Trenton would have Trenton income tax withheld regardless of whether

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
they live within City limits. He also noted that if someone lives in Trenton and works at the data
center, the City would not collect both a resident income tax and a workplace income tax on the
same income, and that those amounts would need to be considered in projected revenue. Mr.
Mesisklis stated that he lives in Fairfield and pays Trenton income tax on the income he earns
working in Trenton. Mayor stated that if residents have questions about these types of issues,
they may contact Council or staff for clarification, as there has been information circulating that
may not accurately reflect how municipal income tax works. Mayor also stated that, based on
conversations with the developer, one of the main goals is not only to locate in Trenton but also
to have future employees come from the Trenton community. He stated that there would be
opportunities to partner with the schools and Butler Tech to help train and prepare students for
the evolving workforce so that, after high school, they may be prepared to enter advanced
technology jobs. Mayor stated that the developer has indicated that it wants workers to come
from the local community because it is easier and less expensive to hire people who already live
in the area than to pay for relocation. Mr. Mesisklis also addressed the concern regarding
changing numbers, stating that the projections for payroll and full-time employees have
remained the same, although the numbers the developer is willing to formally pledge have
changed. He stated that data centers operating in central Ohio and other areas have
headcounts that remain above Trenton’s initial projections after construction. Mr. Mesisklis
acknowledged that water usage numbers changed significantly from what was initially discussed
based on what the developer has now purchased utility-wise. Mayor clarified that the projected
water usage went considerably down, which is positive from an environmental perspective,
though it may result in less revenue for the City’s water system than originally anticipated.
Amanda, Day Springs - Amanda, a resident of Day Springs, addressed Council and stated that
while she understands the argument that data center development may bring in revenue to help
fund infrastructure and other City needs, communities nationwide do not want data centers
because of the issues they can bring. She asked why the City is not looking for other types of
companies to bring in revenue, referencing existing companies such as Carvana and Miller.
Amanda stated that the City should look for companies that do not bring the same concerns and
stated that the community is saying it does not want data centers and that Council should listen
to residents. She stated that schools need funding, buses are broken down, classes are
underfunded, teachers need better raises, and streets are in disrepair. She questioned why the
City is discussing development-related road improvements while other streets also need repair,
and stated that instead of annexation for another data center, the City should look for other
companies. Amanda then addressed fencing regulations, stating that she has custody of a child
who is a runner and that, as a resident of 10 years on a back-to-back corner lot, she cannot
install a fence without losing more than a quarter of her land due to where the fence would be
required to be placed. She stated that the matter needs to be addressed and that she would be
willing to serve on the proposed subcommittee because the issue needs to be fixed immediately.
Amanda stated that she has a large dog and children, and that many families, including families
with children with disabilities, need fences. She stated that the City’s current rules are too strict
and antiquated and need to be reviewed from all perspectives. Mayor responded regarding other
businesses and stated that the City has advertised and worked through resources such as REDI
Cincinnati, JobsOhio, and others to attract development. Mayor stated that there have been
multiple companies interested in the land, including a dog food manufacturer and a water
bottling plant, but those companies ultimately chose other locations or stopped pursuing the
project. Mayor stated that this is part of economic development and that the data center project
continued moving forward as other potential projects did not. Mayor explained that, aside from
the City-owned acreage, the City did not control the development of the other property involved
in the annexation. He stated that the property owners in the townships were approached by the

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
company and chose to sell their land, and that the company then indicated it wanted to be part
of Trenton, which is why those property owners are requesting annexation. Mayor stated that the
City could choose not to annex the property, but that would not necessarily mean the project
would not be built; it could potentially be built in the township or county just outside of Trenton.
Mayor referenced Miller as an example, stating that Miller is not located within Trenton and that
if Trenton had declined annexation in a similar situation, it would not necessarily have stopped
the development, but would have prevented Trenton from receiving benefits from it. Mayor
stated that he was not speculating as to whether the project would or would not be built if the
City does not annex the land, but there are no guarantees that declining annexation would stop
the development from occurring nearby.
Karen Embry – Ms. Embry addressed Council regarding a recent accident coming off the bridge
in which a young lady was aircared to the hospital in critical condition. Ms. Embry stated that she
was home that day and, for approximately four and one-half hours, observed the traffic problem
that was created, which she believed may have been partially due to work occurring near the
Pierson Road area. She stated that the traffic was horrendous going up and down the road, and
expressed concern about the road near the bridge, possibly Woodsdale Road, where vehicles
coming out of that road make a left-hand turn onto the bridge. Ms. Embry stated that she did not
know who was at fault in the accident and that fault was not the important issue, but rather that
the left-hand turn onto the bridge is dangerous. She stated that the traffic flow should be halted
for left-hand turns coming from that road because similar incidents have happened more than
once during the 27 years she has lived there. Ms. Embry stated that vehicles coming off the
bridge use the area as an easy way to access the back roads, but vehicles coming out of that
road should not be allowed to make a left-hand turn into traffic, as it creates a dangerous
situation. She suggested that those vehicles could be detoured to come out at the stoplight near
the drive-thru and stated that a traffic study should be completed regarding the dangers of that
left-hand turn and what can be done to stop left-hand turns onto the bridge for safety reasons.
Vice Mayor Croucher stated that, unfortunately, the City cannot take direct action because the
area is not within the City of Trenton and would fall under Butler County’s jurisdiction. Ms. Embry
stated that someone should still be contacted regarding the issue because it has been a longstanding problem and there have been multiple accidents at that intersection. Vice Mayor
Croucher stated that the appropriate contact would be the Butler County Engineer’s Office. City
Manager Nichols stated that the City has been in contact with Butler County regarding traffic in
that area and will continue to do so, and encouraged Ms. Embry to also raise the issue with
Butler County, noting that more complaints may help bring attention to the matter. Ms. Embry
stated that during the incident, hundreds of vehicles turned around in her driveway, including
semis, dump trucks, vehicles pulling campers, and other traffic, and while she does not object to
people turning around in her driveway, her main concern was that the injuries from the accident
should not have happened at that intersection. She reiterated that there should not be a lefthand turn onto the bridge. An officer stated that he was on the scene of the crash as part of the
Sheriff’s Office crash team and agreed that the area is dangerous. He stated that, because of
the type of crash, the road had to be shut down for multiple hours to investigate, and that
limited manpower made traffic control difficult.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Gary Embry 2029 Wayne Madison Rd - Mr. Embry addressed council regarding traffic concerns
in the Woodsdale area, stating that, as best as he can determine, the majority of traffic traveling
through Woodsdale and along Wayne Madison Road or Woodsdale Road is going to and from
Trenton. He stated that the City’s development will add significantly more traffic, and while he
acknowledged that cities should develop, he emphasized that the traffic problem has existed for
approximately 26 years. Mr. Embry referenced prior actions taken by Monroe and stated that
traffic solutions can take many years, using the Pleasant Avenue overpass in Hamilton as an
example of a project that took decades to plan and complete. He stated that, while an overpass
over the railroad would be a good idea, he does not believe it will happen in his lifetime because
of the difficulty involved. Mr. Embry stated that the road issue has not been corrected in his
lifetime and that additional development will only add to the problem. He stated that he
understands the City is attempting to annex land at the request of property owners, but that
doing so will create additional traffic issues. He stated that when he went to the County and
spoke with their engineers, the last traffic study had been completed many years ago and
showed approximately 14,000 cars per day, and he believes the current number is much higher.
Mr. Embry stated that the problem is being magnified and that, in his view, the City is helping
Trenton while hurting Woodsdale. He described a recent incident in which he and his wife were
coming home and signaled to turn into their driveway, but his wife had to continue driving to
avoid being struck due to traffic behind them. Mr. Embry stated that the City is adding to
Woodsdale’s problem while fixing its own, and that although he speaks with passion, he has
enough sense to know the issue is being exacerbated. He stated that he has heard the response
twice that it is the County’s problem and questioned what that means for Woodsdale residents,
asking whether they matter. He stated that the concerns regarding Woodsdale are the reason
the issue continues to be raised and that he will continue speaking about it as long as he is able.
Mayor responded that it is similar to the issue of sidewalks in St. Clair Township, explaining that
the City cannot build a sidewalk in St. Clair Township for children walking to school because it is
outside the City’s jurisdiction. Mayor stated that the City can either tell Trenton children to stop
walking that way or try to work to improve the situation, but that the City cannot make decisions
that would raise taxes on Trenton residents because the County will not improve the road. Mayor
stated that he sympathizes with the problem and would fix it if the City had the authority, but he
could not responsibly limit Trenton’s growth, raise taxes, or pursue levies for Trenton residents
because the County will not fix a traffic issue outside the City’s control. Vice Mayor Croucher
then asked Chief Carr whether there was any way to speak with the County about conducting a
study to lower the speed limit in that area, noting that there had been another wreck that week
involving a vehicle going underneath a semi. Chief Carr stated that the area being discussed,
near the incline in Woodsdale, is currently posted at 35 miles per hour when traveling
northbound on Madison, then changes to 45 miles per hour near the crest and later to 55 miles
per hour farther north. Chief Carr stated that he was not certain whether a county road could be
lowered below 35 miles per hour, but that the City would be in contact with the appropriate
parties. There was also discussion about whether school bus stop signage or flashing lights
could help slow traffic during certain times of day. Council then moved on to public hearings.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

1. None.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 620, FARM ANIMALS, OF THE CODIFIED
ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO.
a. Mayor opened the floor for those who wish to speak for the ordinance. Nobody
came to the floor. Mayor then opened the floor for those who wish to speak
against the ordinance. Nobody came to the floor. Mayor then closed the public
hearing.
2. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1258.18 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE
CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO.
a. Mayor opened the floor for those who wish to speak for the ordinance. Nobody
came to the floor. Mayor then opened the floor for those who wish to speak
against the ordinance. Nobody came to the floor. Mayor then closed the public
hearing.
NEW BUSINESS

1. A MOTION TO ADOPT THE FISCAL YEAR 2027 TAX BUDGET (EXHIBIT A) AND TO
AUTHORIZE THE CITY FINANCE DIRECTOR TO SUBMIT THE SAME TO THE BUTLER
COUNTY BUDGET COMMISSION
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Mr. Nichols_______ 2nd Ms. Butts_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Proffitt

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
2. A MOTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH
TELE VAC ENVIRONMENTAL FOR EMERGENCY SEWER REPAIRS IN THE AMOUNT OF ONE
HUNDRED THIRTY EIGHT THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY FIVE DOLLARS
($138,775) AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN ALL REQUIRED
DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO
a. City Manager Nichols stated that the item involved one bid and explained that
staff wanted to move forward with the matter quickly. He stated that the City
initially planned to move forward with the emergency repair and then bring the
item back to Council as a then-and-now purchase order, but because there was
a Council meeting scheduled, staff decided to bring the item before Council at
that time for approval. Mr. Roark asked whether this was the company the City
normally uses for scoping lines and related work, and City Manager Nichols
confirmed that it was. Vice Mayor Croucher asked whether the project would
involve tearing up roads or going between houses and disturbing private
property. City Manager Nichols stated that the intent was not to dig up the
sanitary sewer line, but to line it instead, noting that this would be the less
invasive method.
Motion –Motion To Authorize
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher_______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Proffitt

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
LEGISLATION

Motion –Motion To Read Items 1 through 6 Under Legislation By Title Only
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Mr. Nichols______ 2nd Mr. Roark_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Proffitt

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

1. A RESOLUTION ADOPTING A STATEMENT OF SERVICES THAT THE CITY OF TRENTON,
OHIO, WILL PROVIDE TO THE PROPOSED ANNEXATION INTO THE CITY OF TRENTON,
OHIO OF 601.589 +/- ACRES OF LAND, LOCATED IN ST. CLAIR TOWNSHIP AND
MADISON TOWNSHIP, BUTLER COUNTY, OHIO, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (First
Reading)
2. A RESOLUTION CONSENTING TO THE ANNEXATION TO THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO
CERTAIN TERRITORY PROPOSED TO BE SO ANNEXED PURSUANT TO AN ANNEXATION
PETITION FILED WITH THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF BUTLER COUNTY,
OHIO, AS PROVIDED FOR IN OHIO REVISED CODE SECTION 709.024, AND DECLARING
AN EMERGENCY. (First Reading)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
3. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 620, FARM ANIMALS, OF THE CODIFIED
ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO. (Second Reading)
a. Mayor stated that the item would raise the number of chickens residents may
keep in their yards and would also allow chicken manure to be used as fertilizer,
noting that it must be mixed with lime. Vice Mayor Croucher asked City Manager
Nichols whether the City had received any complaints from residents regarding
the number of chickens residents are allowed to have. City Manager Nichols
stated that, as far as approved and permitted chicken coops are concerned,
code enforcement has not received any complaints regarding properties with
approved chicken coops. Vice Mayor Croucher stated that when the ordinance
was first passed, there was a lot of discussion on both the number of chickens
and the use of manure, and Council’s approach at that time was to be
conservative and see whether any issues arose, which had not occurred to date.
Mr. Roark asked whether chickens are permitted only in certain areas of the
City, stating that he did not want chickens in his subdivision, and asked whether
residents could have chickens anywhere in Trenton. Mr. Ziepfel stated that he
would need to review the ordinance, but believed chickens are permitted in
residential areas so long as certain guidelines are followed, including having a
chicken coop, prohibiting roosters, and meeting minimum lot size requirements.
It was further clarified that chickens are permitted in RE, R-1, and R-2 districts
with a minimum lot size of 10,000 square feet. Mayor clarified that, although
multiple items had been read, the item before Council for a vote at that time
related only to farm animals.
Motion –The Ordinance Be Approved
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher______ 2nd Ms. Butts_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Proffitt

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

4. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1258.18 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE
CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO. (Second Reading)
Motion –The Ordinance Be Approved
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Mr. Nichols______ 2nd Ms. Montgomery_
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Proffitt

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
5. AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE EDITING AND INCLUSION OF CERTAIN ORDINANCES AS
PARTS OF THE VARIOUS COMPONENT CODES OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES;
PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF NEW MATTER IN THE UPDATED AND REVISED
CODIFIED ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF SUCH NEW MATTER;
REPEALING ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT THEREWITH; AND
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (First Reading)
6. AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A COMMUNITY
REINVESTEMENT AREA AGREEMENT AND A COMPENSATION AGREEMENT, AND
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (First Reading)
REPORTS

Finance Director, Matthew Mesisklis - Mr. Mesisklis stated that he had no formal report, but
wanted to address the traffic issue that had been discussed earlier in the meeting. He
stated that the Woodsdale area is also the route he takes home and that the dogleg turn
onto Woodsdale, particularly turning left rather than continuing to the traffic light, is a
difficult and unsafe traffic pattern. Mr. Mesisklis stated that he has recently been going to
the traffic light instead because it is safer, even though it usually requires waiting. He
further stated that, during the prior visit to the AWS site, the project team indicated that its
engineering team is working on a traffic solution for the Woodsdale area and is aware of the
issue as it relates to a traffic study. Mr. Mesisklis stated that he would allow City Manager
Nichols to provide any additional information.
City Manager Nichols - City Manager Nichols stated that the City is interested in a traffic
impact study that would evaluate not only final buildout conditions, but also traffic impacts
during construction. He further stated that any development would be held accountable to
the requirements identified through that process. Mr. Nichols also had a request to go to
executive session To Consider confidential information that is directly related to a request
for economic development assistance under any provision identified in Ohio Revised Code
121.22(G)(8), or that involves public infrastructure improvements or the extension of utility
services that are directly related to an economic development project, as necessary to
protect the interests of the applicant or the possible investment or expenditure of public
funds to be made in connection with the economic development project and to confer with
legal counsel. Purchase of property for public purposes. Mayor asked City Manager Nichols,
per a request from the public, to provide a broad, plain-language explanation of the purpose
of the upcoming executive session so there would not be speculation about the matter. City
Manager Nichols stated that the executive session would involve the AWS project and
conversations with other jurisdictions

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.

AUDIENCE OF COUNCIL

Mr. Roark - Mr. Roark stated that one thought he had was that while he knows many people
do not want the City to annex the property, and he is not sure whether all members of Council
want to either, Council needs to consider what would be accomplished if the City does not
annex and Amazon proceeds with the development anyway. He stated that Amazon does not
lack money and could still move forward with the project, and questioned what would be
accomplished by not annexing and not taking advantage of potential revenue coming into the
City of Trenton. Mr. Roark stated that this is something Council needs to think about.
Ms. Butts - Ms. Butts congratulated Mr. Beresford on his graduation. She also reminded
everyone that the first Council meeting in July has been moved back one week to July 9, as
July 2 will be the City’s Let Freedom Boom celebration for America 250. Ms. Butts stated that
there will be several activities taking place, beginning with a parade at 6:00 p.m., along with
events at the community park, a live concert, and fireworks. She encouraged residents to
attend, noting that the fireworks the previous year were excellent. Ms. Butts also thanked
everyone who attended the first Movies in the Park event, stating that there was a large
turnout and that it was the City’s largest turnout yet. She noted that 15 pounds of popcorn
were used and joked that the success of Movies in the Park is measured by the amount of
popcorn served. Ms. Butts also reminded residents that while there is a lot of information
shared on Facebook, she encouraged people to verify information before posting it in order
to avoid misinformation, and asked residents to reach out to those who have the answers
before posting inaccurate information.
Ms. Montgomery- Ms. Montgomery congratulated Mr. Beresford on his graduation, stating
that he was one of the people who visited her when she was in the hospital and that she was
very proud of him for earning his master’s degree. Ms. Montgomery also stated that it was
her and her husband’s 45th wedding anniversary. She shared that her husband has gone
through health issues, but that she had received a good report, noting that the known cancer
had not spread and that the cancers were benign. She stated that lymph nodes had been
removed, that he was also dealing with Bell’s palsy and other complications from surgery, and
that he has been hesitant to go out because of embarrassment. Ms. Montgomery thanked
God for the good report and stated that God gave her a good man and she plans to hold on
to him. She concluded by encouraging everyone to enjoy the weekend with their families if
they have the ability to do so, stating that family is a big deal.
Ms. Butts – Ms. Butts thanked Mr. Mesisklis and Mr. Ziepfel for their reports and for bringing
clarity regarding what is going on and the positives that could come to the community. She
stated that she understands they could not provide too much detail, but that she is anxious
to hear more about the positive things that could come from the discussions. Ms. Butts also
thanked everyone who organized the Council retreat, stating that it was a great opportunity
for Council to dig into the strategic plan and make sure the City is moving in the right direction.
She stated that the plan was already solid and that, although Council made a few tweaks, it
was a very good day. Ms. Butts also reminded everyone that Council has to look at matters

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
from every direction and cannot simply focus on one issue. She stated that Council must
consider the pros and cons and how matters will benefit or not benefit the entire community,
not just certain areas. She encouraged everyone who is listening and reading information to
ask questions of the people who actually know and have the data and answers, rather than
simply taking what they read or hear as fact. Ms. Butts asked that everyone have the same
respect and accountability for themselves that they expect from those sitting on Council.
Mr. Nichols – Mr. Nichols thanked everyone who helped in any way with Spring Fest and
Movies in the Park, stating that both events were very well attended. He stated that it is
difficult to judge attendance at the park because there is not one single entrance and exit for
larger events, but estimated that the most recent Movies in the Park event had close to 1,000
people in attendance, which was likely double prior attendance. Mr. Nichols stated that a
large part of the success is due to Kelsey Moore, the City’s activities coordinator, who has
done an excellent job adding more to each event and helping them continue to grow. Mr.
Nichols congratulated Mr. Beresford on graduating from his master’s program and also
congratulated the citizens who attended the Citizens Academy, including his wife, who
attended to learn more about the City and better understand the work being discussed. Mr.
Nichols then addressed comments made earlier regarding the City’s water system. He stated
that concerns about uneven water pressure have been reviewed for several years, and that
the new water tower on the south end of town is being built to address those pressure issues.
He clarified that the water tower was planned before the data center development and was
not related to that project. Mr. Nichols stated that the City’s yearly water reports are published
on the City website, as are the City of Hamilton’s reports, and that when comparing the two
reports, there is very little difference between Trenton’s water quality and Hamilton’s water
quality. He stated that the hardness is almost identical, with some differences in chlorine and
sodium, and that overall the quality is very similar. Mr. Nichols further stated that there is not
much the City can do regarding hardness because the water comes from an aquifer that
naturally contains hard water and minerals. Mr. Nichols also addressed comments regarding
the cost of water, stating that Trenton’s water rates are not among the highest. Mr. Mesisklis
noted that the City of Piqua prepares a yearly water rate report that includes approximately
50 to 60 cities in the area, and Mr. Nichols stated that Trenton’s rates typically fall around
the middle. Mr. Nichols also noted that the most recent report included cities that had
implemented water rate increases, many of which had done so within the past year, while
Trenton had not.
Vice Mayor Croucher - Vice Mayor Croucher thanked Ms. Montgomery for the prayer and
thanked everyone for attending the meeting. He congratulated Mr. Beresford on his
graduation, stating that everyone on Council is proud of him. Vice Mayor Croucher also
thanked and congratulated everyone who attended the Citizens Academy, stating that he
attended the first Citizens Academy and that it is a useful tool to learn how the City operates
and how City business is conducted. He reminded everyone that Coffee with a Cop will be
held on July 3 at McDonald’s at 7:00 a.m., and stated that Chief Carr will be there to answer
questions and buy attendees a cup of coffee. Vice Mayor Croucher also remembered Deidra
Griffin, stating that she was a great friend who volunteered whenever she was asked,
including for Movies in the Park and other City events. He stated that volunteering and getting
involved is how people meet others in the community and learn what their hearts are made
of. Vice Mayor Croucher stated that Ms. Griffin had a heart bigger than gold and will be dearly
missed.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Mayor Perry – Mayor Perry congratulated Mr. Beresford on his graduation, stating that it was
a great achievement. Mayor Perry stated that, with Mr. Beresford being gone for the weekend,
it became clear that he is the glue that helps hold the City together. He noted that during Mr.
Beresford’s absence, there were questions regarding who to contact, where paperwork
should be filed, and where certain documents were located. Mayor Perry thanked Mr.
Mesisklis for doing a good job filling in, but stated that Mr. Beresford’s absence was definitely
noticed. Mayor Perry thanked Mr. Beresford for all of the hard work he does for the City, stating
that he is sure Mr. Beresford does more than most people realize. Mayor Perry also wished
Ms. Montgomery and her husband a happy anniversary. Mayor Perry then thanked everyone
who attended the recent events in the park, stating that attendance has grown significantly.
He noted that Movies in the Park used to be considered successful with approximately 100
attendees, and now attendance is estimated near 1,000 people, with approximately 15
pounds of popcorn served. It was also noted that approximately 500 hot dogs were served
during Franks with the Fuzz, along with snow cones, cotton candy, and other items. Mayor
Perry reminded everyone that the food and activities provided at Movies in the Park are free,
with the only charges coming from any food trucks that may be present. Ms. Montgomery
stated that she attended Spring Fest and observed vehicles from several surrounding
counties, including Warren, Montgomery, Butler, and Preble Counties. She stated that it was
wonderful to see children and families enjoying the activities, including the bubbles, and
noted that the event has grown beyond Trenton residents and now draws people from
surrounding communities. Ms. Montgomery stated that she is proud of that growth. Mayor
Perry concluded by stating that the City was short on volunteers for Spring Fest and that
community organizations, including baseball and soccer, are also in need of volunteers. He
stated that it often seems to be the same people volunteering at every event. Mayor Perry
stated that he understands some residents may disagree with the current direction of the City
and respects that, but encouraged residents to volunteer and get involved in the community.
He stated that many great things are happening in Trenton and that many great organizations
need help to continue moving the community forward. Mayor Perry encouraged anyone who
has the time and ability to volunteer with one of the organizations and meet other people in
the community.

City of Trenton
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
June 18th, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
EXECUTIVE SESSION REQUEST

I. To Consider confidential information that is directly related to a request for economic
development assistance under any provision identified in Ohio Revised Code
121.22(G)(8), or that involves public infrastructure improvements or the extension of
utility services that are directly related to an economic development project, as necessary
to protect the interests of the applicant or the possible investment or expenditure of
public funds to be made in connection with the economic development project and to
confer with legal counsel
II. Purchase of property for public purposes.

Motion – To Go To Executive Session For The Reason Stated
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Mr. Nichols____ 2nd Vice Mayor Croucher_ Time:9:31 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Proffitt

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

Motion – To Go To Executive Session For The Reason Stated
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Ms. Montgomery____ 2nd Vice Mayor Croucher_ Time:11:01 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Proffitt

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

ADJOURNMENT

Motion - That the meeting be adjourned.
(Roll Call Vote) 1st______Vice Mayor Croucher____ 2nd Ms. Butts_ Time11:01 P.M.
YAYS: Perry, Croucher, Montgomery, Nichols, Butts, Roark
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT: Proffitt

(6)
(0)
(0)
(1)

RESOLUTION NO 08-2026
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING A STATEMENT OF SERVICES THE CITY OF TRENTON,
OHIO, WILL PROVIDE TO THE PROPOSED ANNEXATION INTO THE CITY OF
TRENTON, OHIO OF 601.589 +/- ACRES OF LAND, LOCATED IN ST. CLAIR TOWNSHIP
AND MADISON TOWNSHIP, BUTLER COUNTY, OHIO, AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY
WHEREAS, the owners of approximately 601.589 acres of real property, more or less, located in St.
Clair Township and Madison Township, Butler County, Ohio, as described in the document attached
hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit A (the "Property"), desire annexation into the City of
Trenton, Ohio; and
WHEREAS, a petition for annexation of the Property was filed with the Board of County
Commissioners of Butler County, Ohio (the "Board") on __________________, seeking annexation
of the Property pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 709.024; and
WHEREAS, Ohio Revised Code Section 709.024(C)(2) requires that a municipal corporation shall,
by ordinance or resolution, adopt a statement indicated what services, if any, the municipal corporation
will provide to the territory sought to be annexed and an approximate date by which it will provide
them; and
WHEREAS, Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, supports the proposed annexation and will provide
the services set forth in this Resolution to the Property upon its annexation to the City, as set forth
below.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Trenton, County of
Butler, Ohio:
SECTION 1. The following services will be available and provided by the City of Trenton, Ohio, to
the Property once the City’s resolution or ordinance accepting the annexation becomes
final as provided by law. Such services will be provided by the City of Trenton, Ohio,
as permissible under applicable law, on the terms and conditions, and shall be subject
to the rates, rules and regulations, established by City ordinances, to the same extent
as such are provided to other territory and properties located within the City of Trenton,
Ohio:
A. Sanitary Sewer Services and Potable Water Services;
B. Police Services;
C. Road/Street Maintenance
D. Storm Water Utility Maintenance;
E. Zoning;
F. Fire and EMS Services; and
G. All other public services and utilities to the same extent and under the same
conditions as such services and/or utilities are provided to all other citizens and
properties within the City of Trenton, Ohio.
SECTION 2. The City of Trenton, Ohio agrees that if upon annexation of the Property, a street or
highway as defined in Ohio Revised Code Section 4511.01 will be divided or
segmented by the boundary line between either St. Clair Township or Madison
Township and the City of Trenton as to create a road maintenance problem, the City of
Trenton, Ohio will assume the maintenance of that street or highway.
SECTION 3. The Clerk of the City of Trenton, Ohio is hereby directed to immediately file a certified
copy of this Resolution with the Board of County Commissioners of Butler County,
Ohio within the time period(s) applicable under Ohio Revised Code 709.024.

RESOLUTION NO 08-2026
SECTION 4. That all formal actions of this Council relating to the adoption of this Resolution and
all deliberations of the Council and any of its committees leading to such formal action
were conducted in meetings open to the public, in compliance with the laws of the State
of Ohio, including Ohio Revised Code §121.22.
SECTION 5. This Resolution is hereby declared to be an emergency measure necessary for the
preservation of the public health, safety, and general welfare of the City of Trenton,
and shall be effective immediately upon its passage for the reason that it establishes
access to utilities and other public services to the Property as otherwise available to
real property located within the City.

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. 08-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City
of Trenton, Ohio on the 9th day of July, 2026 and that at least two-thirds of the elected members
voted in the affirmative on said motion.

__________________________________
Clerk of Council

RESOLUTION NO 08-2026
Exhibit A

EXHIBIT A

RESOLUTION NO 09-2026
A RESOLUTION CONSENTING TO THE ANNEXATION TO THE CITY OF TRENTON,
OHIO CERTAIN TERRITORY PROPOSED TO BE SO ANNEXED PURSUANT TO AN
ANNEXATION PETITION FILED WITH THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BUTLER COUNTY, OHIO, AS PROVIDED FOR IN OHIO REVISED CODE SECTION
709.024, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY
WHEREAS, the owners of approximately 601.589 acres of real property, more or less, situated in St.
Clair Township and Madison Township, Butler County, Ohio, and proposed to be annexed to the City
of Trenton, Ohio (the "Property"), have prepared a petition for annexation pursuant to Ohio Revised
Code Sections 709.021 and 709.024 (the "Petition"); and
WHEREAS, a petition for annexation of the Property was filed with the Board of County
Commissioners of Butler County, Ohio (the "Board") on __________________, seeking annexation
of the Property pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 709.024; and
WHEREAS, Ohio Revised Code Section 709.024(C)(1) provides that, upon the filing of an Expedited
Type 3 annexation petition, City Council may, within thirty days after the date the petition is filed,
adopt and file with the County an ordinance or resolution consenting to the proposed annexation; and
WHEREAS, the City of Trenton, Ohio, supports the proposed annexation and is, on this same date,
adopting a resolution setting forth the services it will provide the territory proposed for annexation,
upon its annexation to the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Trenton, County of
Butler, Ohio:
SECTION 1. The Council of City of Trenton, Ohio hereby consents to the above-referenced
annexation.
SECTION 2. The Clerk of the City of Trenton, Ohio is hereby directed to immediately file a certified
copy of this Resolution with the Board of County Commissioners of Butler County,
Ohio within the time period(s) applicable under Ohio Revised Code 709.024.
SECTION 3. That all formal actions of this Council relating to the adoption of this Resolution and
all deliberations of the Council and any of its committees leading to such formal action
were conducted in meetings open to the public, in compliance with the laws of the State
of Ohio, including Ohio Revised Code §121.22.
SECTION 4. This Resolution is hereby declared to be an emergency measure necessary for the
preservation of the public health, safety, and general welfare of the City of Trenton,
and shall be effective immediately upon its passage for the reason that it establishes
access to utilities and other public services to the Property as otherwise available to
real property located within the City.

RESOLUTION NO 09-2026

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. 09-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City
of Trenton, Ohio on the 9th day of July, 2026 and that at least two-thirds of the elected members
voted in the affirmative on said motion.

__________________________________
Clerk of Council

ORDINANCE NO 17-2026
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE EDITING AND INCLUSION OF CERTAIN
ORDINANCES AS PARTS OF THE VARIOUS COMPONENT CODES OF THE CODIFIED
ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF NEW MATTER IN THE UPDATED
AND REVISED CODIFIED ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF
SUCH NEW MATTER; REPEALING ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT
THEREWITH; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
WHEREAS, American Legal Publishing has completed its annual updating and revision of the
Codified Ordinances of the City; and
WHEREAS, various ordinances of a general and permanent nature that have been passed by Council
since the date of the last updating and revision of the Codified Ordinances (April 17, 2025) have been
included in the Codified Ordinances of the City; and
WHEREAS, certain changes were made in the Codified Ordinances to bring City law into conformity
with State law.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Trenton, County of
Butler, Ohio:
SECTION 1. That the editing, arrangement and numbering or renumbering of the following
ordinances are hereby approved as parts of the various component codes of the
Codified Ordinances of the City, so as to conform to the classification and numbering
system of the Codified Ordinances.
Ord. No.

Date

C.O. Section

14-2025

7-17-25

620.01 to 620.03, 620.99

24-2025

7-17-25

892.01 to 892.27, 892.99

27-2025

8-21-25

1252.14

28-2025

8-21-25

1256.11

33-2025

9-18-25

870.66

34-2025

9-18-25

1258.18

35-2025

9-18-25

1044.01

39-2025

10-16-25

205.03

40-2025

10-16-25

1046.01

42-2025

11-6-25

1248.01

43-2025

11-6-25

1264.02

44-2025

11-6-25

1264.06

45-2025

11-6-25

1252.17

46-2025

11-20-25

48-2025

12-18-25

Repeals 222.07; 222.12, 222.13
1258.18

ORDINANCE NO 17-2026
Ord. No.

Date

C.O. Section

49-2025

12-28-25

1610.01

52-2025

1-8-26

276.01 to 276.05

04-2026

2-19-26

210.02

11-2026

3-19-26

210.02

SECTION 2. That the following sections of the Codified Ordinances are or contain new matter in
the Codified Ordinances and are hereby approved, adopted and enacted:
432.30, 442.01, 452.05, 606.10, 612.08, 612.09, 618.01, 618.02, 618.03, 618.04,
618.05, 618.06, 618.07, 618.08, 618.09, 618.10, 618.11, 618.12, 618.13, 618.14,
618.15, 618.16, 618.17, 618.18, 618.19, 618.20, 618.21, 618.22, 618.23, 618.24,
624.01, 624.14, 624.19, 630.01, 642.01, 642.08, 642.33
SECTION 3. That pursuant to Section 3.07 of the City Charter. By a majority vote of the members
of Council, the Council may cause the ordinances and resolutions of the City to be
revised, codified, recodified, rearranged, or published in book form. Such revisions,
codification, recodification, rearrangement or publication of ordinances and
resolutions in book form shall be immediately effective upon approval of a majority
vote of the members of Council, and may contain new matter therein. The Clerk of
Council shall cause a notice of such proposed revision, codification, recodification,
recodification, rearrangement or publication of ordinances to be posted on the City web
site, and copies available at Civic Hall within the City at least seven days prior to the
final approval thereof by the Council, and no further publication shall be necessary. A
current service supplementing such revision, codification, recodification,
rearrangement or publication of ordinances and resolutions in book form shall be
maintained in the manner prescribed by the Council.
SECTION 4. That all ordinances and resolutions or parts thereof which are in conflict or inconsistent
with any provision of the new matter adopted in Section 2 of this ordinance are hereby
repealed as of the effective date of this ordinance except as follows:
(a) The enactment of such sections and subsections shall not be construed to affect a
right or liability accrued or incurred under any legislative provision prior to the
effective date of such enactment, or an action or proceeding for the enforcement
of such right or liability. Such enactment shall not be construed to relieve any
person from punishment for an act committed in violation of any such legislative
provision, nor to affect an indictment or prosecution therefor. For such purposes,
any such legislative provision shall continue in full force notwithstanding its repeal
for the purpose of revision and codification.
(b) The repeal provided above shall not affect any legislation enacted subsequent to
March 19, 2026.

ORDINANCE NO 17-2026
SECTION 5. That this ordinance is declared to be necessary for the operation of the City Government
of the City of Trenton, Ohio, in that the City needs an up-to-date code of ordinances
with which to administer the affairs of the City and to enforce law and order, and this
ordinance, therefore, shall take effect immediately upon its passage by Council.
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. 17-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the 9th day of July, 2026 and that at least two-thirds of the elected members voted in
the affirmative on said motion.

__________________________________
Clerk of Council

ORDINANCE NO 18- 2026
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A
COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT AREA AGREEMENT AND A COMPENSATION
AGREEMENT, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY
WHEREAS, the City of Trenton, Ohio (the “City”) has determined to encourage the development of
real property located in the area designated as the City of Trenton Community Reinvestment Area (the
“CRA”); and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Trenton, Ohio, by Resolution No. 17-2025 adopted July
17, 2025, created the CRA; and
WHEREAS, the Developer identified and defined in the Agreements described below, has acquired
certain real property located within the CRA and as depicted in the Community Reinvestment Area
Agreement as the “Project Site”; and
WHEREAS, the City and the Developer desire to enter into a Community Reinvestment Area
Agreement (the “CRA Agreement”), attached hereto as Exhibit A, under which the City will provide,
subject to the terms and conditions of the CRA Agreement, a real property tax exemption applicable
to the assessed valuation of new structures constructed on the Project Site; and
WHEREAS, the City and the Developer also desire to enter into a Compensation Agreement (the
“Compensation Agreement”), attached hereto as Exhibit B, under which the Developer will make, or
cause to be made, certain payments for the benefit of the school districts and the City; and
WHEREAS, this Council has determined that the CRA Agreement and the Compensation Agreement
are related components of the same economic development transaction for the Project, are in the best
interest of the City and will promote the public purpose of encouraging investment, development,
infrastructure planning, job creation, and economic development within the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Trenton, Ohio:
SECTION 1. That the Community Reinvestment Area Agreement, attached hereto as Exhibit A, and
the Compensation Agreement, attached hereto as Exhibit B (collectively, the
“Agreements”), are hereby approved in substantially the forms attached hereto, with
such non-substantive changes, corrections, completion of blanks, and conforming
revisions as the City Manager determines to be necessary or appropriate and not
adverse to the City.
SECTION 2. That the City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute the Agreements
and to take all necessary administrative actions to implement and carry out said
Agreements.
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
Agreements.
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
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 timely facilitate the Project, enable the City to execute and implement the
Agreements in compliance with applicable statutory timelines, and promote economic

ORDINANCE NO 18- 2026
development and infrastructure planning within the City, and therefore this Ordinance
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. 18-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the 9th 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 18- 2026
Exhibit A

ORDINANCE NO 18- 2026
Exhibit B

COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT AREA AGREEMENT
(Project Accordion)
This agreement, including all of its attached exhibits (the “Agreement”), is made and entered
into as of ___________, 2026 (the “Effective Date”), by and among the CITY OF TRENTON,
OHIO, a municipal corporation in the State of Ohio, through the Trenton City Council (the “City”)
and [PROLOGIS L.P.], a ________ limited partnership (together with any permitted successors,
assigns or transferees, referred to herein as the “Developer”). The City and the Developer may be
collectively referred to herein as the “Parties” or individually as a “Party.”
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the City has determined to encourage the development of real property and the
acquisition of personal property located in the area it has designated as the City of Trenton
Community Reinvestment Area (the “CRA” or the “Area”); and
WHEREAS, the Developer has acquired or intends to acquire in one or more phases the real
property contained within the CRA described and depicted on Exhibit A attached hereto (the “Project
Site”), and intends to develop and construct (in one or more phases) on that Project Site one or more
data center(s) as well as certain buildings, structures and infrastructure for administrative, accessory,
supporting, associated or related uses, such as (but not limited to) offices and utility buildings,
structures and appurtenances together with related site improvements (collectively, the “Project,”
with each individual building or structure within the Project being referred to herein as a “Building”),
with the combined square footage of the Buildings estimated to total approximately 800,000 to
1,000,000 square feet, provided that the appropriate development incentives are available to support
the economic viability of the Project; and
WHEREAS, the City, through its City Council, by Resolution No 17-2025 adopted July
17, 2025, created the area designated as the CRA, and thereafter: (i) transmitted a copy of the
resolution and map of the CRA to the Director of the Ohio Department of Development, and (ii)
published the resolution in a newspaper of general circulation in the City once a week for two
consecutive weeks, each in accordance with Ohio Revised Code Section 3735.66; and
WHEREAS, the Director of the Ohio Department of Development has assigned to the CRA
a unique designation by which the area shall be identified for purposes of Ohio Revised Code Sections
3735.65 to 3735.70 (collectively, the “CRA Statute”); and
WHEREAS, the City, having the appropriate authority for the Project, desires to provide the
Developer with the incentives set forth herein to support the development of the Project on the Project
Site; and
WHEREAS, the City, subject to the terms of this Agreement, has agreed to provide the
Developer with a fifteen (15) year, 75% real property tax exemption applicable to the construction of
each Building on the Project Site (collectively, the “Exemptions”); and

WHEREAS, the Developer intends to convey or lease the Building(s) or parts thereof and
the land upon which the Building is constructed to one or more future owners (each an “Owner”;
collectively the “Owners”), which Owners and/or their lessees shall be the parties whom equip and
occupy the Building(s) and employ workers at the Project; and
WHEREAS, the City’s Housing Officer, duly designated under Ohio Revised Code Section
3735.65, has reviewed the Agreement Application and has recommended the approval of the same to
the City Board of Commissioners on the basis that the Developer is qualified by financial
responsibility and business experience to create and preserve employment opportunities in the Area
and improve the economic climate of the City; and
WHEREAS, the Project Site is located: (i) in the Edgewood City School District (the “School
District”), and (ii) in the district of the Butler Technology and Career Development Schools(the
“JVSD”), a joint vocational school district, and the School District and the JVSD, each through their
respective boards of education, have been notified in accordance with Ohio Revised Code Sections
3735.67, 3735.671 and 5709.83, and have been given a copy of this Agreement and the Agreement
Application; and
WHEREAS, the City and Developer have agreed to enter into a compensation agreement
(“Compensation Agreement”), substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B, in order to
provide compensation to the City, the School District and the JVSD; and
WHEREAS, the City has passed a TIF Resolution, pursuant to which, in accordance with the
requirements of Ohio Revised Code Sections 5709.77 through 5709.81, the parcels on the Project Site
shall be subject to a real property tax exemption set forth in the TIF Resolution (the “TIF Exemption”);
and
WHEREAS, the City and the Developer intend for the Exemptions set forth in this Agreement
to precede the TIF Exemption on each parcel of real property, and for the Exemptions in this
Agreement to take priority over any real property tax exemption granted pursuant to Ohio Revised
Code Sections 5709.77 through 5709.81; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the CRA Statute, the City Council has, by Resolution No. ____2026, adopted on ________, 2026, approved the terms of this Agreement and consented to the
approval and execution of this Agreement; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the CRA Statute and in conformance with Ohio Revised Code
Section 3735.671(B), the Parties hereto desire to set forth their agreement with respect to matters
hereinafter contained.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants hereinafter contained and the
benefit to be derived by the Parties from the execution hereof, the Parties herein agree as follows:
1.

Project and Project Investment.

-2-

a.
The Developer intends to develop and construct (in one or more phases) on the Project
Site one or more data center Buildings as well as certain buildings, structures and infrastructure for
administrative, accessory, supporting, associated or related uses, such as (but not limited to) offices
and utility buildings, structures and appurtenances together with related site improvements
(collectively, the “Project,” with each individual building or structure within the Project being referred
to herein as a “Building”). No machinery, equipment, furniture, fixtures or inventory owned by the
Developer exists at the Project Site prior to execution of this Agreement or is held at another location
in the State of Ohio and is to be relocated to the Project Site.
b.
The Developer shall use commercially reasonable efforts to construct an initial data
center Building (the “First Building”) with a minimum gross building square footage of two hundred
thousand (200,000) square feet. The Developer approximates that the total capitalized cost (including
but not limited to, construction costs, on-site infrastructure costs and equipment costs) of the First
Building will be at least $600,000,000. Other Buildings for administrative, accessory, supporting,
associated or related uses may also be constructed at various times and are not included in the estimate
for the First Building. The Developer shall use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain a temporary
certificate of occupancy for the First Building by December 31, 2027. The City agrees that the
Developer will not be deemed to be in breach of its obligations under this Section if the Developer
obtains a temporary certificate of occupancy for the First Building by December 31, 2028.
c.
The Developer shall use commercially reasonable efforts to construct a second data
center Building (the “Second Building”) with a minimum gross building square footage of two
hundred thousand (200,000) square feet. The Developer approximates that the total capitalized cost
(including but not limited to, construction costs, on-site infrastructure costs and equipment costs) of
the Second Building will be at least $600,000,000. Other Buildings for administrative, accessory,
supporting, associated or related uses may also be constructed at various times and are not included
in the estimate for the Second Building. The Developer shall use commercially reasonable efforts to
obtain a temporary certificate of occupancy for the Second Building by December 31, 2028.The City
agrees that the Developer will not be deemed to be in breach of its obligations under this Section if
the Developer obtains a temporary certificate of occupancy for the Second Building by December 31,
2029.
d.
The Developer may elect to construct additional data center Buildings and/or other
Buildings in addition to the First Building and Second Building. Any such additional Buildings shall
be eligible for Exemptions as provided in Section 4 of this Agreement.
e.
The investment amount estimates and the costs associated with the Project may
increase or decrease significantly and do not necessarily equal taxable value. Except as specifically
set forth in subsections (b) and (c) above regarding minimum square footage requirements and
Building delivery dates, the assumptions and estimates provided in this Section are good faith
estimates and shall not be construed in a manner that would limit the amount or term of the
Exemptions (as defined in Section 4 of this Agreement).
f.
The City acknowledges that it has no right to compel the Developer to commence or
complete construction of any Building within the Project.

-3-

2.
Job Creation. The Developer currently estimates that by December 31, 2035, there
will be created at the Project Site approximately One hundred twenty (120) new full-time jobs (i.e.,
at least 35 hours/week), with an annual payroll of approximately $9,000,000. No employee positions
currently exist at the Project Site and therefore no employee positions will be retained due to
construction of the Project. The estimates provided in this Section are good faith estimates
provided pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 3735.671(B) and shall not be construed in a
manner that would limit the amount or term of the Exemptions (as defined in Section 5 of this
Agreement). The Parties to this Agreement recognize that the employment and any payroll
estimates associated with the Project may increase or decrease significantly. The Parties to this
Agreement also recognize that the employees at the Project Site may be employed by any Owners
or tenants or their contractors, or one or more entities that control an Owner or tenant, are
controlled by an Owner or tenant, or are under common control with an Owner or tenant. The
Developer currently has no full-time, part-time, permanent or temporary positions at other sites in
the State of Ohio.
3.
Collective Bargaining Agreement Commitment. Developer shall use commercially
reasonable efforts to ensure that, to the extent sufficient expertise and labor are available, not less
than six and a half percent (6.5%) of the total labor hours performed in connection with the
construction of the Project are performed by workers employed under a collective bargaining
agreement. The foregoing percentage shall apply on a Project-wide basis and shall not be construed
to require that any individual building or phase of the Project independently satisfy the six and a
half percent (6.5%) threshold. Developer shall include with each Annual Report (as defined below)
a good-faith assessment of its progress towards meeting the commitment described in this Section
3. The assessment shall be summary in nature and shall not require disclosure of proprietary
information, including pricing and individual subcontractor identities.
4.
Information for Tax Incentive Review Council. The applicable Tax Incentive Review
Council (the “Council”) shall annually review this Agreement pursuant to Ohio Revised Code
Section 5709.85(C)(1). To facilitate that annual review, not more than once each calendar year during
the term of this Agreement, the Developer shall provide, or cause to be provided, to the Council any
information reasonably required by the Council to evaluate, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section
5709.85(C)(1), the Developer’s compliance with the Agreement. The current form of annual report
used by the Council is attached hereto as Exhibit C (the “Annual Report”). The Annual Report shall
be due no earlier than March 30 each year during the term of this Agreement, and in the event the
Developer fails to timely submit the Annual Report in any year, the Developer shall be entitled to a
grace period of at least thirty (30) days to submit the Annual Report after receiving written notice of
such failure. The City shall request that the Council only require the Developer to report the
information identified on the Annual Report, as may be updated by the Council from time to time.
5.
Real Property Tax Exemption for Project. Upon receipt of a real property tax
exemption application (form of Exemption Application attached hereto as Exhibit D) filed by a
Building owner with the Housing Officer designated by the City after substantial completion of
any Building on the Project Site, certifying the facts contained therein (as required by the City)
regarding that Building (regardless of the phase of the Project in which such Building is built), the
City shall as soon as practicable undertake the verifications and make the certifications required
to grant a 75% real property tax exemption for that Building for a period of fifteen (15) years
-4-

(each an “Exemption,” and collectively for more than one Building, the “Exemptions”). For each
qualifying Building on the Project Site, the Exemption commences the first year for which the real
property would first be taxable were that property not exempted from taxation. No Exemption
shall commence after tax year 2036 (i.e., tax lien date January 1, 2036) nor extend beyond tax year
2050 (i.e., tax lien date January 1, 2050). Pursuant Ohio Revised Code 3735.67(A), the Parties
agree to, in good faith, discuss amending this Agreement and the term of the Exemptions set forth
hereunder if the Project is expected to be owned or occupied by a megaproject operator at any time
throughout the duration of this Agreement. Each Exemption shall apply irrespective of whether
the real property is owned by the Developer, or, in accordance with and subject to Section 14 of
this Agreement, by any Permitted Transferee (as defined herein). The Developer acknowledges that
the Exemption with respect to Building on the Project Site is subject to and conditioned upon the
filing of the tax exemption application by the Building owner with the Housing Officer designated
by the City.
6.
City Council Approval. The Developer and the City acknowledge that this Agreement
must be approved by formal action of the legislative authority of the City as a condition for the
Agreement to take effect, and as set forth in the recitals, this Agreement has been approved by
resolution of the Trenton City Council.
7.
Waiver of Fees. The Developer shall not be required to pay any annual fees under
this Agreement and any such fees are hereby waived.
8.
Payment of Non-Exempt Taxes. The Developer shall pay such real property taxes
and equivalents as are not exempted under this Agreement and are charged against the Project and
shall file all tax reports and returns as required by law. If the Developer fails to pay such taxes or file
such returns and reports, and such failure is not corrected within thirty (30) days after the Developer’s
receipt of written notice thereof from the City, the Exemptions granted under this Agreement are
rescinded beginning with the year for which such unpaid taxes are charged or such unfiled reports or
returns are required to be filed and thereafter. The provisions in this Section are subject to Ohio
Revised Code Section 5709.85, and except as expressly set forth below, nothing in this Agreement
restricts or limits the Developer’s right to contest the valuation of the Project or the Project Site under
Ohio Revised Code Sections 5715.13 and 5715.19 or to contest any other Ohio state or local tax
matters. Notwithstanding the foregoing, solely with respect to the valuation of the land component of
the Project Site and expressly excluding any valuation of improvements or other taxable interests, if
the School District or City files or prosecutes a tax valuation complaint or appeal pursuant to Ohio
Revised Code Section 5715.19 seeking to establish the true value of the land at an amount not to
exceed Eight Million Fifty Thousand Dollars ($8,050,000), the Developer agrees that, for a period of
five (5) years following the date of the Developer’s acquisition of the Project Site, it shall not oppose,
contest, or appeal such land valuation or any resulting determination. The Developer agrees to
provide supporting documentation for informational purposes only as reasonably requested by the
School District, City, or its counsel, including copies of the recorded deed, settlement statement, and
purchase agreement (with confidential or proprietary terms redacted as permitted by law), to
substantiate the arm’s-length nature and consideration of the transaction in accordance with Ohio
Revised Code Section 5713.03, provided that the Parties agree that such documentation is provided
for informational purposes only and does not establish market value or waive appeal rights other than
as described in the preceding sentence.
-5-

9.
City Cooperation to Claim and Maintain Exemption. The City shall perform such acts
as are reasonably necessary or appropriate to effect, claim, reserve, and maintain the Exemptions
including, without limitation, joining in the execution of all documentation and providing any
necessary certificates required in connection with the Exemptions.
10.
Continuation of Exemption under Certain Circumstances. If for any reason the CRA
designation expires, the Director of the Ohio Department of Development revokes certification of the
Area, or the City revokes the designation of the Area, this Agreement shall nevertheless continue in
effect in accordance with its terms and (i) any Exemption previously granted under Section 5 of this
Agreement for a Building shall continue for the number of years specified under this Agreement, and
(ii) Exemptions yet to be granted but provided for under Section 5 shall be granted by the City in
accordance with the terms of this Agreement. The preceding sentence shall not apply to
circumstances where the Developer materially fails to fulfill its obligations under this Agreement
beyond all applicable notice and cure periods and the City terminates or modifies the Exemptions
pursuant to Section 11 of this Agreement. Except for any amendment, rescission, revocation,
modification, suspension or termination otherwise permitted under this Agreement, the City agrees
that it will not amend or revoke the CRA designation as to the Project Site, or modify the Exemptions
available under that designation for any Building on the Project Site, unless otherwise mandated by
Ohio law.
11.
Termination or Modification of Exemption. If the Developer materially fails to fulfill
its obligations under the Agreement, and such failure remains uncured for a period of sixty (60) days
after the receipt of written notice thereof by the Developer from the City, or if the City determines
that the certification as to delinquent taxes required by this Agreement is fraudulent, the City may
terminate or modify the exemptions from taxation granted under the Agreement, from the date of such
material failure. The termination, suspension, or modification of exemptions under this Section 11 is
the City’s sole remedy for a material failure by the Developer under this Agreement. For the
avoidance of doubt, the preceding sentence will not limit the City’s respective remedies specified in
Sections 8 and 18 of this Agreement. Developer will not be deemed in default or otherwise in
violation of any term of this Agreement to the extent Developer’s action, inaction or omission is the
result of a Force Majeure Event. Developer agrees to use commercially reasonable efforts to promptly
resolve any Force Majeure Event that adversely and materially impacts its performance under this
Agreement. A Force Majeure Event pauses Developer’s performance obligation for the duration of
the Force Majeure Event but does not excuse it. “Force Majeure Event” means any event or
occurrence that is not within the control of Developer or its affiliates and prevents Developer from
performing its obligations under this Agreement, including without limitation, any act of God; act of
a public enemy; war; riot; sabotage; blockage; embargo; failure or inability to secure materials,
supplies or labor through ordinary sources by reason of shortages; labor strike, lockout or other labor
or industrial disturbance (whether or not on the part of agents or employees of Developer or its
affiliates); epidemic; pandemic; partial or complete unavailability or failure of utilities; civil
disturbance; terrorist act; power outage; fire, flood, windstorm, hurricane, earthquake or other
casualty; any law, order, regulation or other action of any governing authority; any action, inaction,
order, ruling moratorium, regulation, statute, condition or other decision of any governmental agency
having jurisdiction over Developer or the Project Site other than the City unless such action or inaction
by the City would give rise to a writ of mandamus.
-6-

12.
Certification of No Delinquent Taxes. The Developer hereby certifies that at the time
this Agreement is executed, (i) the Developer does not owe any delinquent property taxes to any
taxing authority of the State of Ohio, and does not owe delinquent taxes for which the Developer is
liable under Chapter 5735, 5739, 5741, 5743, 5747, or 5753 of the Revised Code, or, if such
delinquent taxes are owed, the Developer currently is paying the delinquent taxes pursuant to an
undertaking enforceable by the State of Ohio or an agent or instrumentality thereof, (ii) has not filed
a petition in bankruptcy under 11 U.S.C. 101, et seq., and (iii) no such petition has been filed against
the Developer. For the purposes of this certification, delinquent taxes are taxes that remain unpaid on
the latest day prescribed for payment without penalty under the chapter of the Ohio Revised Code
governing payment of those taxes.
13.
Further Representations. As of the Effective Date, the Developer affirmatively
represents that it does not owe: (i) any delinquent taxes to the State of Ohio or a political subdivision
of the State; (ii) any moneys to the State or a state agency for the administration or enforcement of
any environmental laws of the State; and (iii) any other moneys to the State, a state agency or a
political subdivision of the State that are past due, whether the amounts owed are being contested in
a court of law or not.
14.
Restrictions on Assignment or Transfer. This Agreement is not transferable or
assignable without the express written approval of the City, which shall not be unreasonably withheld
or delayed. The City and the Developer acknowledge that the exact legal and financing structure used
by the Developer in developing, equipping and operating the Project may include additional legal
entities; therefore, the City hereby approves the assignment or transfer of this Agreement, in whole
or in part, to (i) any entity that controls the Developer, is controlled by the Developer, or is under
common control with the Developer (control may include majority ownership, operational or other
functional control, or both), (ii) any entity resulting from the merger or consolidation of or with the
Developer, (iii) any person or entity which acquires all (or substantially all) of the assets of the
Developer, (iv) any successor of the Developer by reason of public offering, reorganization,
dissolution, or sale of stock, membership or partnership interests or assets, (v) any data center end
user that acquires all or a portion of the Project Site, or (vi) in connection with any financing
transaction entered into for the Project, including, but not limited to, any financing transaction under
Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4582 (each a “Permitted Transferee”). For any assignment and/or
transfer, the Permitted Transferee will execute and deliver to the City an assumption agreement. As
used herein, “Prior Owner” means, as of any point in time, any person or entity which shall have been,
but is not then, the person or entity in control of the Project Site, or any portion thereof, as owner.
Upon delivery to the City of the assumption agreement, each Prior Owner will be released from
liability for any default or violation occurring after the date of the change in ownership or control by
which that Prior Owner became a Prior Owner, as such change is reflected in the assumption
agreement.
15.
Legal Authority; Binding Effect. The Parties to this Agreement respectively represent
and covenant that each is legally empowered to execute, deliver and perform this Agreement and to
enter into and carry out the matters contemplated by this Agreement. The Parties further respectively
represent and covenant that this Agreement has, by proper action, been duly authorized, executed and

-7-

delivered by the Parties. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Parties
hereto and their respective permitted successors and assigns.
16.
Notices. Any notices, statements, acknowledgements, consents, approvals,
certificates or requests required to be given on behalf of any Party to this Agreement shall be made
in writing addressed as follows and sent by (i) registered or certified mail, return receipt requested,
and shall be deemed delivered when the return receipt is signed, refused or unclaimed, or (ii) by
nationally recognized overnight delivery courier service, and shall be deemed delivered the next
business day after acceptance by the courier service with instructions for next-business-day
delivery:
If to the City, to:
City of Trenton, Ohio
11 E. State Street
Trenton, Ohio 45067
Attention: City Manager
With a copy to:
Fox & Ziepfel, LLC
215 Main Street, Suite B
Hamilton, Ohio 45013
Attention: Nick Ziepfel
If to the Developer, to:
[Prologis L.P.]
and
[Tenant, at the address provided to the Parties when Tenant is identified.]
With a copy to:
Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP
52 East Gay Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Attention: Chris Knezevic
or to any such other addresses as may be specified by any Party, from time to time, by prior written
notification.
17.
Validity. The Developer and the City are prohibited from challenging the validity of
this Agreement or the CRA. In that regard, the Developer and the City each waive any defects in any
proceedings related to the CRA or this Agreement. If the validity of the CRA or this Agreement is
-8-

challenged by any entity or individual, whether private or public, the Developer and the City shall
advocate diligently and in good faith in support of the validity of the CRA and this Agreement.
18.
Revocation of Exemptions. The Exemptions from real property taxation granted
under this Agreement shall be revoked if it is determined that the Developer, any successor to the
Developer or any related member (as those terms are defined in division (E) of Ohio Revised Code
Section 3735.671) has violated the prohibition against entering into this Agreement under division
(C) of Ohio Revised Code Section 3735.671 or Section 5709.62, 5709.63 or 5709.632, as such
division or either of those sections are in effect as of the Effective Date prior to the time prescribed
by that division or either of those sections.
19.
No False Statements. The Developer represents and warrants, as of the Effective Date,
the Developer has not knowingly made any false statements to the City or failed to provide any
information required by Ohio Revised Code Section 9.66(B) concerning an application for economic
development assistance in connection with this Agreement. The Developer acknowledges that
whoever, in an application for economic development assistance (including but not limited to an
application for a real property tax exemption under the CRA Statute), knowingly makes a false
statement or fails to provide any information required by Ohio Revised Code Section 9.66(B) shall
be ineligible for any future economic development assistance from the State of Ohio, any State agency
or a political subdivision under Ohio Revised Code Section 9.66(C)(1).
20.
Termination. Unless terminated earlier pursuant to its terms, this Agreement shall be
in full force and effect until December 31 of the later of (i) 2050, or (ii) the year following the last tax
year for which an Exemption remains in effect, after which this Agreement and the obligations of all
Parties hereto shall terminate. The Developer has the right to terminate this Agreement for any reason
or no reason by delivering a signed writing to the City at least thirty (30) days prior to the desired
termination date.
21.
Anti-Corruption. In connection with the negotiation and performance of this
Agreement, the City represents, warrants and covenants that it has complied and will continue to
comply with all applicable anti-corruption laws, rules, and regulations, including by using any
payments or other investments provided by the Developer solely for the purposes stated in this
Agreement and not in any way, directly or indirectly, that would constitute bribery, an illegal
kickback, an illegal campaign contribution, or would otherwise violate any applicable anti-corruption
laws. If the City becomes aware of any violation or suspected violation of this Section 21 of the
Agreement, it shall provide prompt written notice to the Developer, setting forth the relevant facts
and circumstances. The City will, consistent with applicable laws, cooperate with the Developer in
good faith to review any suspected violations of this Section 21 of the Agreement, including by
providing the Developer with reasonable access to relevant documentation. Notwithstanding any
other provision in this Agreement, the Developer may immediately terminate this Agreement if the
City is in breach of any of its obligations under this Section 21 of the Agreement.
22.
Estoppel Certificate. Within fifteen (15) days after the written request of the
Developer, the City shall execute and deliver to the Developer or any proposed purchaser, mortgagee
or lessee of the Project Site, a certificate stating: (i) that the Agreement is in full force and effect, if
the same is true; (ii) that the Developer is not in default under any of the terms, covenants or conditions
-9-

of the Agreement, or, if the Developer is in default, specifying same; and (iii) such other matters as
the Developer reasonably requests.
23.
No Personal Liability. No covenant, obligation, representation or agreement is
deemed to be a covenant, obligation, representation or agreement of any present or future member,
officer, agent or employee of Parties other than in his or her official capacity, and neither officers or
employees of the City, members of the legislative authority of the City, nor any officers or employees
of the Developer executing this Agreement are liable personally under this Agreement or subject to
any personal liability or accountability by reason of the execution thereof or by reason of the
covenants, obligations or agreements of the Parties contained in this Agreement. With respect to any
proceeding or action arising out of or in any way related to this Agreement (whether in contract, tort,
equity or otherwise) the Parties knowingly, intentionally, and irrevocably waive their right to trial by
jury.
24.
Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of
which shall be deemed to be an original, and all of which together shall constitute one and the same
Agreement.
25.
Titles. The Parties have inserted the section titles in this Agreement only as a matter
of convenience and for reference, and those titles in no way define, limit, extend or describe the
scope of this Agreement or the intent of the Parties in including any particular provision in this
Agreement.
26.
Severability. If any provision of this Agreement or the application of any such
provision to any person or any circumstance shall be determined to be invalid or unenforceable,
then such determination shall not affect any other provision of this Agreement or the application
of such provision to any other person or circumstance, all of which other provisions shall remain
in full force and effect; and, if any provision of this Agreement is capable of two constructions one
of which would render the provision valid, then such provision shall have the meaning which
renders it valid.
27.
Third-Party Beneficiaries. Except as expressly provided in this Section 27, this
Agreement is entered into solely for the benefit of the Parties and their respective permitted
successors and assigns, and no other person or entity will be deemed to be a third-party beneficiary
of this Agreement or have any right to enforce any provision hereof. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, the Parties expressly acknowledge and agree that Amazon Data Services, Inc., a
Delaware corporation, or any affiliate thereof that is a lessee of all or any portion of the Project
Site (collectively, the “Lessee”), is an intended third-party beneficiary of this Agreement; provided
that Lessee is the sole tenant of the Project Site. The Lessee will have the right to enforce, in its
own name, any provision of this Agreement that confers a benefit or imposes an obligation that
relates to or affects the Lessee, including without limitation provisions relating to the availability,
maintenance, continuation, or reinstatement of the real property tax exemptions and the City’s
cooperation obligations related thereto. The Parties shall not amend, modify, or terminate this
Agreement in any manner that would materially diminish or adversely affect the Lessee’s rights
as a third-party beneficiary under this Section 27 without the prior written consent of the Lessee.

- 10 -

28.
Public Records; Confidentiality. The Developer acknowledges and agrees that this
Agreement is a public record subject to disclosure under the public records laws of the State of
Ohio. The City acknowledges and agrees that Ohio public records laws exempt from disclosure
certain types of records, materials and information, as set forth in the Ohio Revised Code (e.g.
R.C. Sections 122.36, 122.75, 149.43(A)(1), 149.433, 149.45, 718.13, 1333.61 et seq., 5703.21,
5711.101). The City agrees to use adequate safeguards to maintain the security and confidentiality
of those exempt records. The City may disclose records, or such portions of records, which are
not exempt from Ohio public record laws to the extent required by law, provided that the City
shall: (a) give the Developer written notice at least five (5) business days prior to responding to all
records requests related to the Developer or the Project; (b) reasonably cooperate with the
Developer in responding to any such records requests; (c) disclose in response to such requests
only such records, or portion of records, as are required to be disclosed under Ohio public records
laws; and (d) redact, omit or refuse to provide any records not required to be disclosed under such
public records law. Nothing in this Agreement shall be interpreted as being contrary to the Ohio
Public Records Act (Ohio Revised Code Section 149.43).
29.
Applicable Law. This Agreement and all related documents are governed by, and
to be construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Ohio, without giving effect to any
conflict of laws provisions thereof to the extent such principles or rules would require or permit
the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than those of the State of Ohio. To the extent
permitted by the laws of the State of Ohio, this Agreement and all related documents shall be
construed in accordance with law and any applicable regulations in effect as of the Effective Date.
30.
Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the
Developer and the City pertaining to the subject matter contained herein and supersedes all other prior
or contemporaneous agreements or understandings between the Developer and the City in connection
with such subject matter.
[This Space Intentionally Left Blank.]

- 11 -

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this Agreement to be executed by their
duly authorized representatives to be effective as of the Effective Date.
CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO
By:
Its:
Date: _____________________________
Approved As To Form:
___________________, Prosecuting Attorney
Date: _____________________________
[PROLOGIS L.P.]
By:
Its:
Date: _____________________________

Exhibit A to Community Reinvestment Area Agreement

Description and Depiction of Project Site

[To be attached]

A-1

Exhibit B to Community Reinvestment Area Agreement
Compensation Agreement

[To be attached]

C-1

Exhibit C to Community Reinvestment Area Agreement
Annual Report

[To be attached]

Exhibit D to Community Reinvestment Area Agreement
Exemption Application

[To be attached]

COMPENSATION AGREEMENT
(Prologis Project)
This Compensation Agreement (this “Agreement”) is made and entered into effective the
last date signed below (the “Effective Date”) by and between [Prologis Entity], a Delaware limited
liability company, its affiliates, successors, nominees and/or assigns (collectively, the
“Developer”); and the City of Trenton, Ohio, a municipal corporation of the State of Ohio through
its City Council (the “City”).
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the Developer intends to develop and construct (in one or more phases) one or
more data center(s) as well as certain buildings, structures and infrastructure for administrative,
accessory, supporting, associated or related uses, such as (but not limited to) offices and utility
buildings, structures and appurtenances together with related site improvements (collectively, the
“Project,”) on real property within the City of Trenton, the Edgewood City School District (the
“Local School District”), and the Butler County Joint Vocational School District (the “JVSD”, and
together with the Local School District, the “School Districts”), as depicted in Exhibit A attached
hereto (the “Project Site”), provided that the appropriate development incentives are available to
support the economic viability of the Project; and
WHEREAS, in connection with the construction of the Project, pursuant to Ohio Revised
Code (“R.C.”) Section 3735.671, the City of Trenton, Ohio (the “City”) desires to enter into a
community reinvestment area agreement with the Developer (the “CRA Agreement”), under which
the City is providing a fifteen (15) year, 75% exemption for the assessed valuation of new structures
at the Project Site; and
WHEREAS, in order to provide support to the City and the School Districts to account for,
in part, foregone revenues from the exemptions provided pursuant to the CRA Agreement, the
Developer desires to provide certain compensation to the City and the School Districts; and
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and covenants contained herein and
the benefit to be derived by the parties from the execution hereof, the receipt and sufficiency of
which are hereby acknowledged, the parties herein agree as follows:
Section 1.
School Districts Payment. As consideration for the City’s approval of the
CRA Agreement, the Developer or one of its affiliates shall pay directly to the School Districts a
one-time payment equal to a total of one million dollars ($1,000,000) (the “School Payment”). The
School Payment shall be made within thirty (30) days after the Developer commences vertical
construction of a building or structure on the Project Site (the “Payment Date”). Notwithstanding
the foregoing, a payment made by Developer’s tenant or an affiliate of Developer’s tenant will
satisfy the Developer’s obligation under this Section 1. The School Payment shall be allocated to
the Local School District and JVSD proportionally based on the tax year 2024 millages of the Local
School District and the JVSD. The combined tax year 2024 millages of the Local School District
and the JVSD equal 32.26732 (30.33732 + 1.93) (the “Total School Millage”); therefore the Local
School District’s percentage of the Total School Millage is 94.02% and the JVSD’s percentage of
the Total School Millage is 5.98%. As a result, Developer shall pay $940,200 ($1,000,000 x

1

94.02%) directly to the Local School District and $59,800 ($1,000,000 x 5.98%) directly to the
JVSD on or before the Payment Date. Within five (5) days of making the School Payment, the
Developer shall provide the City with written evidence of such payments, which evidence may
include wire transfer confirmations, cancelled checks, or receipts from the School Districts. All
payments made under this Agreement are nonrefundable once made. Neither the Developer,
Developer’s tenants, nor their respective affiliates will be responsible or liable for any use,
distribution, or failure to use or distribute the proceeds of any School Payment by the School
Districts or City Payment (defined below) by the City.
Section 2.
City Payment. As additional consideration for the City’s approval of the
CRA Agreement, and in recognition of the increased demand on the City’s water system resulting
from the Project, the Developer or one of its affiliates shall pay into the City’s Water Capital
Improvement Fund for water system capital maintenance and improvements, a one-time payment
equal to two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000) (the “City Payment”). The City Payment shall be
made on or before the Payment Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a payment made by
Developer’s tenant or an affiliate of Developer’s tenant will satisfy the Developer’s obligation
under this Section 2. The method of payment for the City Payment shall be mutually agreed upon
by the City and the Developer. Within five (5) days of payment, the City will provide the Developer
with a written receipt confirming payment.
Section 3.
Water and Sewer Capacity ERU Purchase. In order to secure and reserve
sufficient water and sewer system capacity for the Project Site, and to enable the City to effectively
plan and manage its municipal water and sewer systems in connection with the Project, the
Developer or one of its affiliates shall, as part of the City's standard permitting and tap fee process,
purchase from the City the following Equivalent Residential Units ("ERUs") at the following perunit prices:
(a)

Water Capacity. Six hundred seventeen (617) Water ERUs at a price of Four
Thousand Dollars ($4,000.00) per ERU, for a total purchase price of Two Million
Four Hundred Sixty-Eight Thousand Dollars ($2,468,000.00); and

(b)

Sewer Capacity. Two hundred sixty-three (263) Sewer ERUs at a price of Eight
Hundred Dollars ($800.00) per ERU, for a total purchase price of Two Hundred
Ten Thousand Four Hundred Dollars ($210,400.00).

The ERU purchases described in this Section 3 shall be made in connection with and as part of the
City's issuance of the first building permit for vertical construction of a building or structure on
the Project Site. All payments made pursuant to this Section 3 are nonrefundable once made. In
the event the Project requires water or sewer capacity in excess of the ERUs purchased pursuant
to this Section 3, the Developer shall purchase such additional ERUs at the City's then-current perunit rates in effect at the time of such additional purchase. The Developer shall not be required to
purchase any additional ERUs beyond the quantities set forth in this Section 3 unless and until the
actual demands of the Project exceed the total capacity represented by the ERUs initially purchased
hereunder.
Section 4.
Failure to Make Payment; Construction Commencement. If the Developer
fails to make a timely payment as required under this Agreement, and such failure remains uncured

2

for a period of thirty (30) days after the receipt of written notice thereof by the Developer from the
City, the Developer shall be in default under this Agreement, which default shall also constitute a
default under the CRA Agreement. Any payment not made when due shall bear interest at the rate
per annum determined pursuant to ORC § 5703.47 then in effect from the date due until paid. The
Developer shall comply with the construction commencement requirements set forth in Section 1
of the CRA Agreement. A failure by the Developer to satisfy such requirements resulting in the
termination of the CRA Agreement shall simultaneously terminate this Agreement, and neither
party shall have any further obligation hereunder. In the event that the City and the Developer fail
to enter into a CRA Agreement for the Project, then this Agreement shall be void and the parties
shall be free from any obligations under it.
Section 5.
Assignment. The parties recognize that the exact legal and financing
structure used by the Developer in developing, equipping and operating the Project may include
additional legal entities and may evolve prior to and during the development of the Project.
Accordingly, this Agreement and the benefits and obligations hereof may be assigned in whole or
in part by the Developer to: (a) any entity that holds a fee ownership interest in the Project; (b) any
entity that leases a majority of the rentable area of the Project; or (c) any parent entity or affiliate of
an entity described in clause (a) or clause (b), and the City hereby approves of any such assignments
of this Agreement; provided, however, that (i) the City shall receive written notice of all such
assignments no later than 10 days after the effective date of each assignment, and (ii) any assignee
must expressly agree in writing to be bound by the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Any
purported assignment that does not meet the requirements of this Section 4 shall not be effective.
Section 6.
Notices. All payments, certificates and notices which are required to or may
be given pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be delivered by
(a) personal delivery, (b) certified United States mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, or
(c) nationally recognized overnight courier service. Notices shall be deemed given upon receipt if
personally delivered, three (3) business days after mailing if sent by certified mail, or one (1)
business day after deposit with an overnight courier, addressed to the following:
If to the City, to:
City of Trenton, Ohio
11 E. State Street
Trenton, Ohio 45067
Attention: City Manager
With a copy to:
Fox & Ziepfel, LLC
215 Main Street, Suite B
Hamilton, Ohio 45013
Attention: Nick Ziepfel
If to the Developer, to:

3

[Prologis L.P.]
and
[Tenant, at the address provided to the Parties when Tenant is identified.]
With a copy to:
Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP
52 East Gay Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Attention: Chris Knezevic
Section 7.
Severability of Provisions. The invalidity of any provision of this
Agreement shall not affect the other provisions of this Agreement, and this Agreement shall be
construed in all respects as if any invalid portions were omitted.
Section 8.
Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of
counterparts, all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument, and any
party to this Agreement may execute this Agreement by signing any such counterpart.
Section 9.
Governing Law; Venue. This Agreement shall be governed by and
construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Ohio. Any action or proceeding arising out
of or relating to this Agreement shall be brought exclusively in the courts of Butler County, Ohio,
or the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, and each party irrevocably
submits to the jurisdiction of such courts. With respect to any proceeding or action arising out of or
in any way related to this Agreement (whether in contract, tort, equity or otherwise) the Parties
knowingly, intentionally, and irrevocably waive their right to trial by jury.
Section 10.
Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement
between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior and
contemporaneous agreements, negotiations, and understandings, whether written or oral. This
Agreement may not be amended or modified except by a written instrument signed by both parties.
Section 11.
No Waiver. No waiver of any provision of this Agreement shall constitute
a waiver of any other provision or of the same provision on any future occasion. No failure or
delay by either party in exercising any right hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof.

[Balance of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

4

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be executed as of
the Effective Date.

CITY OF TRENTON, OHIO

By:
Its:
Date: _____________________________

Approved As To Form:

___________________, Law Director
Date:

_____________________________

[PROLOGIS L.P.]

By:
Its:
Date: _____________________________

5

EXHIBIT A
Depiction of Project Site

(attached hereto)

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: Prologis CRA Agreement
Ordinance/Resolution/Motion
Resolution

1st Reading Date: 6/19/26
2nd Reading Date: 7/9/26
Motion Date:
Resolution Date: 7/9/26
Public Hearing Date:

Contract

Contract Required: No

Fiscal Impact

Budgeted: N/A
Revenue: See below
Destination Fund: Various

STRATEGIC GOALS
Connected Community
Economic Vitality
Operational Excellence
Strong & Secure Neighborhood
General Operations
Additional Document(s)
Attached: 2025 CRA
Resolution
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: Prologis CRA Agreement
Policy Alternative
The City Council can choose to not approve. Failure to approve may stall the project and any potential
school and city payments.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends that Council receive this report and approve the terms of this CRA.
Statutory/Policy Authority
• ORC and the Ordinances of the City of Trenton.
Fiscal Impact Summary
This CRA agreement facilitates site development and generates City and school revenues in the
following manner:
Already Paid:
$2,468,000 to Trenton Water Works (Capacity Fee)
$210,400 to Trenton Sewer Fund (Tap Fee)
Within 30 days:
$940,200 to Edgewood Schools
$59,800 to Butler County JVSD (Butler Tech)
Annually at full buildout (Property Tax):
$824,000 ($3,005,000 after CRA ends) to Edgewood Schools
$513,000 ($1,870,000 after CRA ends) to City of Trenton

Staff Report

Annually at employment pledge (Income Tax)
$67,500 to Edgewood Schools
$67,500 to City of Trenton
$4,000,000 to City of Trenton (total projected sum of construction job withholding)
Altogether, this project provides a consistent funding equivalent of a 2 mill levy, which would
otherwise be the equivalent of a $70 annual bill per $100,000 of property value withing the city.
It also provides capital resources to the City’s utility funds, eliminating the projected 3.6% annual
water/sewer increases for the next 5 years.
Background Information
Execution of this CRA agreement secures Prologis’s investment and job pledges in the Trenton
Industrial Park, in exchange for a 75% property tax abatement on new non-utility construction in the
area.
Residents may also apply for 100% tax abatements on improvements increasing the value of their
property, pursuant to the CRA terms of Trenton Resolution 17-2025.

MOTION NO 40-2026
A MOTION TO AUTHORIZE THE CLERK OF COUNCIL TO CERTIFY TO THE OHIO
DEPARTMENT OF LIQUOR CONTROL THE TRENTON CITY COUNCIL DOES NOT
REQUEST A HEARING ON THE APPLICATION FOR A LIQUOR PERMIT TO 2
BROTHER LLC 4 EAST ST TRENTON OH 45067
Motioned by __________ to authorize the Clerk of Council to certify to the Ohio Department of
Liquor Control that the Trenton City Council does not request a hearing on the application for a liquor
permit to 2 Brother LLC 4 E State St Trenton OH 45067
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. 40-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the 9th day of July, 2026 and that at least a majority of the elected members voted in
the affirmative on said motion.

__________________________________
Clerk of Council

Department of
Commerce

com. ohio. gov

Division of Liquor Control

Mike DeWine, Governor

'Jim Tressel, Lt. Governor

Sherry Maxfield, Oir.e ctor

TRENTON CITY COUNCIL
ATTN CLERK
11 E STATE ST
TRENTON OH 45067
NOTICE TO LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY
10017422-1

TO

NEW

2 B rother LLC

PE
=RMl..:...
T.:...:
Nc::c
U.:..:.;
M=.
BE
=R..:.____,___..;.TY
P E=-----l 4 E State St
.:_:::.!:
t-:�=-':'
ISSUE DATE:
ton OH
-----------1 Tren
t
_ _T_E_5: =-=1=-s,:--:2=-025=- =-- _G_DA
- IN
-FIL
-:':.:.:

45067

•

t-- -------- ---------1 u i Villag
e/Twp: Trenton
M n/
PERMIT CLASSES: 0-5
09121
JUN
CEIPT NO

TAXDISTRICT

RE

PERM IT NUMB E R
ISS UEDATE :

FROM 6/9/2026

TYPE

FILI N G DATE:
PE RMIT CLASSES:
TAXDIST RICT

MA ILED

CEIPT NO

RE

6/9/2026

RESPONSES MUST BE POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN

07/10/2026

IMPORTANT NOTICE

PLEASE COMPLETE AND RETURN THIS FORM TO THE DIVISION OF LIQUOR CONTROL WHETHER OR NOT
THERE IS A REQUEST FOR A HEARING.
REFER TO THIS NUMBER IN ALL INQUIRIES: -�J::.=.
42�2:.;;•.:.
1 _____________
W ----!1�00�1!.!.7.;::;
UN
!.:.--..!.l!N=E.:..:.....
(TRA NSACTIO N & NUM B ER)

(MUST MARK ONE OF THE FOLLOWING)
WE REQUEST A HEARING ON THE ADVISABILITY OF ISSUING THE PERMIT AND REQUEST THAT THE HEARING
IN COLUMBUS
BE HELD
IN OUR COUNTY SEAT

□

WE DO NOT REQUEST A HEARING
DID YOU MARK A BOX?

□

□

IF NOT, THIS WILL BE CONSIDERED A LATE RESPONSE.

PLEASE SIGN BELOW AND MARK THE APPROPRIATE BOX INDICATING YOUR TITLE:

(Printed Name)

6606 Tussi ng Road
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 U.S.A.

(Title) - lll Clerk of City Council
D Township Fiscal Officer

(Date)

(Email Address)

(Telephone No.)

The State of Ohio is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Provider of ADA Services

614 I 644-2360
com.ohio.gov

MOTION NO 41-2026
A MOTION TO REVISE THE CITY OF TRENTON STRATEGIC PILLARS; PUBLIC
SAFETY AND OPERATIONS, STRONG AND SECURE NEIGHBORHOODS, CONNECTED
COMMUNITY, ECONOMIC VITALITY AND TO INCLUDE AN ADDITIONAL PILLAR,
RESPONSIBLE INFRASTRUCTURE
Motioned by __________ to revise the City of Trenton Strategic Pillars; Public Safety and Operations,
Strong and Secure Neighborhoods, Connected Community, Economic Vitality and to include an
additional pillar, responsible infrastructure.
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. 41-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the 9th day of July, 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:

Stanislav Beresford, Clerk of Council

Agenda Item: Motion to update the City of Trenton existing Strategic Pillars; Connected Community,
Economic Vitality, Strong and Secure Neighborhoods, Public Safety and Operations
and to include an updated pillar, Responsible Infrastructure.
Ordinance/Resolution/Motion
1st Reading Date:
Ordinance/Resolution/Motion 2nd Reading Date:
3rd Reading Date:
Motion Date: 07-09-26
Resolution Date:
Contract
Fiscal Impact

Public Hearing Date:
Contract Required:
Budgeted:
Expenditure:
Source Funds:

Strategic Goals
Connected Community
Economic Vitality
Operational Excellence
Strong & Secure
Neighborhoods
General Operations

Additional Document(s)
Attached: Yes
Please see further, more detailed
information regarding the fiscal impact
in the summary section of this report.

Policy Issue
Does City Council wish to update the City of Trenton existing strategic pillars; connected community,
economic vitality, strong and secure neighborhoods, public safety and operations and to include an
updated pillar, responsible infrastructure?
Policy Alternative
City Council can choose not to approve.
Recommendation
Staff recommends that Council receive this report and approve the motion.
Statutory/Policy Authority
Fiscal Impact Summary

Staff Report

Background Information
The City of Trenton held a City Council retreat on May 16, 2026. The retreat was planned and facilitated
by Raftelis. During the retreat council broke into small groups to revisit the strategic framework, the
city has operated with four strategic pillars since they were first developed in 2002 and refined at the
2023 retreat. Members of council recorded their reflections on the pillars. Following the initial
brainstorming, participants worked in small groups to revise the associated success statements as
follows:
Public Safety and Operations
•

Continue to provide proactive and responsible public service by implementing effective and
efficient operations that meet the needs of evolving community now and in the future.

Strong and Secure Neighborhoods
•

Continue to create and maintain safe and appealing neighborhoods where people are proud
to live and play.

Connected Community
•

Continue to facilitate diverse opportunities that connect community and foster civic pride.

Economic Vitality
•

Continue to strengthen and diversity the City’s economy by supporting and advancing strategic
business growth, developing the workforce, and promoting balanced land use decisions.

During the retreat it was discussed the need to incorporate an additional pillar related to infrastructure,
noting that ensuring stable infrastructure is a necessary component of all the other strategic pillars.
For example, without appropriate utility and road infrastructure in place, economic growth would stall
and public safety would be challenged to provide responsive service. The langue for the additional
pillar is:
Responsible Infrastructure
•

Continue to build and maintain a strong infrastructure foundation, including utilities, roads,
and public facilities, that provides the stability and functionality the entire community relies
on.

CITY OF TRENTON

City Council Retreat
Summary Report
Held May 16, 2026

City of Trenton / City Council Retreat Summary Report

1

The City of Trenton (City), Ohio, held a City Council retreat on May 16, 2026. The
retreat was planned and facilitated by Raftelis.
The retreat began with the City Manager welcoming the group.
Members of the City Council and staff then introduced
themselves and shared their hopes for the retreat, as captured in
the image to the right.

Why I Serve
Council members were asked about what motivated them to run
for City Council, what issues matter most to them, what they
hope the community becomes, and what they hope this City
Council will be known for.
Highlights from the conversation include a shared sense of
purpose rooted in personal connection to Trenton. Council
members described paths to service shaped by faith, community
relationships, and a desire to see the City grow. Several
members noted they did not originally plan to run for office, but
were asked, encouraged, or moved by specific experiences to
step up. Common threads included deep listening, a commitment to transparency, and a desire to give back to
a community they are proud to call home. Across the group, the conversation reflected genuine investment in
Trenton’s future and a personal sense of accountability to residents.
Participants were asked to reflect on themes
they heard across stories, and where there
was noticeable alignment. The group quickly
identified that nearly everyone shared a
journey from community engagement to
formal service, often initiated by
relationships rather than personal ambition.
There was strong agreement that the work is
not always easy, and that everyone is still
learning and figuring things out together.
Members noted a collective love for the City
and a shared desire to see it grow, alongside
an honest acknowledgment that there is a lot
happening and it can feel overwhelming at
times. The most consistent thread was
commitment: to residents, to transparency,
and to showing up even when the path is
uncertain.
Additional details are captured in the image
to the left.

City of Trenton / City Council Retreat Summary Report

2

Governance Roles
In 2016, Julia Novak and Dr. John
Nalbandian identified six roles that the
City Council must fulfill as the governing
body. A strong governing body benefits
from members who gravitate toward
different roles, creating a more dynamic
and well-rounded team. This diversity of
strengths ensures that all aspects of
governance receive appropriate attention
and energy, allowing Council to
collectively address the full spectrum of
leadership responsibilities more
effectively than if all members gravitated
toward the same role.
Participants individually ranked each role
according to their preference in
performing it, followed by an engaging
discussion of the Council’s strengths,
roles that are underrepresented, and how
the group can best work together.
Definitions of each role are provided
below, and highlights of the conversation
are reflected in the image to the right.
Strategic/Vision – Big Picture Thinker:
The focus here is on decisions that can have a significant impact on the City. Can be long-term or short-term; often
focuses on the future and what might make a significant difference; seeing possible connections and relationships;
thinks beyond present data and constraints.
Trustee – Steward: While listening to and respecting constituent views, the trustee feels responsible to the City as a
whole and to future residents. The trustee will make uncomfortable decisions that may run counter to constituent
wishes because the decision is in the interest of the greater good.
Community Builder – Bringing People Together: In the community builder role, the Council member focuses on
relationships and consensus-building. The community builder fosters relationships and is able to work through
differences. Community is not just a casual word to the Council member who gravitates to this role.
Representative – Constituent Advocate: In this role, the Council member acts as a “customer service
representative.” The Council member is a conduit between citizens and the City services. Often, residents see this
Council member as responsive to their individual concerns.
Oversight: In this role, the focus is on the accountability of staff to the Council.
Decision-Maker: The decision-maker sees their role much like a judge – information is presented, and the
decision-maker votes it up or down. This is not an easy role, but often it is a more passive role in contrast to that of
the community builder.

City of Trenton / City Council Retreat Summary Report

3

Revisiting the Strategic Framework
The City has operated with four Strategic Pillars since they were first developed in 2020 and refined at the
2023 retreat. Members of the City Council recorded their reflections on the pillars via a sticky note exercise,
including their ideas for wording adjustments. Following the initial brainstorming, the facilitator led a
discussion on each pillar. Following the discussion, participants worked in small groups to revise the
associated success statements as follows:

Public Safety and Operations
•

Continue to provide proactive and
responsible public service by
implementing effective and efficient
operations that meet the needs of the
evolving community now and in the
future.

Strong and Secure Neighborhoods
•

Continue to create and maintain safe
and appealing neighborhoods where
people are proud to live and play.

Connected Community
•

Continue to facilitate diverse
opportunities that connect community
and foster civic pride.

Economic Vitality
•

Continue to strengthen and diversify the City's economy by supporting and advancing strategic
business growth, developing the workforce, and promoting balanced land use decisions.

Participants discussed the need to incorporate an additional pillar related to infrastructure, noting that
ensuring stable infrastructure is a necessary component of all the other strategic pillars. For example, without
appropriate utility and road infrastructure in place, economic growth would stall and public safety would be
challenged to provide responsive service. The language for the additional pillar is:

Responsible Infrastructure
•

Continue to build and maintain a strong infrastructure foundation, including utilities, roads, and
public facilities, that provides the stability and functionality the entire community relies on.

A Shared Vision
Participants were asked to look ahead and consider what would be true about Trenton if they stay focused on
their strategic pillars and make meaningful progress over time. The responses painted a vivid and consistent
picture of the shared vision they are working toward. Participants described a Trenton where people are
committed to their community and proud to live, work, and visit, where businesses choose to open and
economic opportunity is visible. They envisioned a city with a strong education system, residents who trust
their local government, understand its decisions, and feel genuinely well-served. Several members pointed to

City of Trenton / City Council Retreat Summary Report

4

the importance of building from within, noting that a strong succession plan would signal a healthy and
forward-thinking organization. Perhaps most notably, there was a sense of aspiration that goes beyond
Trenton's own boundaries. Participants described a future where other communities look to Trenton and want
to know how they did it. Taken together, these ideas reflect a shared vision rooted in pride, trust, and a belief
that Trenton can be a model for what good local government looks like.
The following graphic summarizes these conversations and captures the strategic framework.

City of Trenton / City Council Retreat Summary Report

5

Establishing Priorities
Council members were invited to share their top three priorities. Using a dot-voting exercise, each Council
member selected the key priorities from the full list that they would like to pursue together. The results of the
exercise are presented below. These results will help serve as a practical guide for staff as they set work plans,
prioritize budget requests, and allocate resources across departments.
Priority

Number of Dot Votes

•

Overpass for the railroad

•

6 dots

•
•
•
•

Develop Home Avenue Park and Community Park amenities
Construct veteran’s memorial
No new levies
Transparency; provide Council more information on issues

•

3 dots

•
•
•

Expand sidewalk access to bike path and schools
Continue public safety growth as the community grows
Redevelop Downtown, including City building

•

2 dots

•

•

1 dot

•
•
•

Expand access to and utilization of the bike path and Miami
riverway
Bring businesses in; be economically strong
Maintain strong public safety
Ensure EMA food bank meets community needs

•
•
•

Maintain infrastructure as the community grows
Redevelop Home Avenue Park
Bring in the restaurants and businesses people want

•

0 dots

Closing Thoughts
As the retreat concluded, participants shared their final reflections on the discussions, reflecting a shared
appreciation for the time to connect and learn from one another and optimism for the future of the City.

MOTION NO 42-2026
A MOTION, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN
AGREEMENT WITH THE KLEINGERS GROUP FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICE
RELATED TO THE CITY OF TRENTONS 2026 LOCAL PAVING PROGRAM AT A
TOTAL COST OF THIRTY-FIVE THOUSAND ($35,000.00) AND TO EXECUTE
ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY TO IMPLEMENT THE AGREEMENT.

Motioned by
__ authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with The
Kleingers Group for Professional Services related to the City of Trenton’s 2026 Local Paving Program
in the amount of $35,000.00 and to execute all documents necessary to implement the agreement.

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. 42-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the
City of Trenton, Ohio on the 9th day of 2026, and that at least a majority of the elected members
voted in the affirmative on said motion.

Clerk of Council

July 9, 2026. Staff Report

City Council Meeting Staff Report
Report to:

The Honorable Mayor Ryan Perry & Members of the City Council

Report From:

Brad Baker, Service Director

Agenda Item: A Motion Authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with The Kleingers
Group for Professional Services related to the City of Trenton’s 2026 Local Paving
Program in the amount of $35,000.00 and to execute all documents necessary to
implement the agreement.
Ordinance/Resolution/Motion
Motion

Contract

1st Reading Date:
Strategic Goals
nd
Connected Community
2 Reading Date:
rd
Economic Vitality
3 Reading Date:
Operational Excellence
Motion Date: July 9, 2026
Strong & Secure Neighborhoods
Resolution Date:
General Operations
Public Hearing Date:
Contract Required: Additional Document(s) Attached: Yes
Please see further, more detailed information regarding the
Budgeted: Yes
fiscal impact in the summary section of this report.
Expenditure:
Kleingers Group Proposal for Professional
$35,000
Services Agreement for Project ID: 120209.132
Source Funds:
102-6006-53109
202-6306-53109
253-1906-53109

dated 5/12/2026.

Policy Issue
Does Trenton City Council wish to approve the motion to authorize the City Manager to enter into an
agreement with The Kleingers Group for Professional Services related to the City of Trenton’s 2026
Local Paving Program?
Policy Alternatives
City Council may choose not to authorize the City Manager to enter into this agreement and not move
forward with the engineering, bidding, and construction administration services required for
Trenton’s 2026 Local Paving Program, defer consideration, or direct staff to modify the proposed
scope of services before authorization.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommend that the City Council receive this report and approve the motion authorizing the City
Manager to enter into an agreement with The Kleingers Group for the Professional Services required
for Trenton’s 2026 Local Paving Program.
Statutory/Policy Authority
•
•

Article III, Legislative Action, of the Charter of the City of Trenton.
ORC and the Codified Ordinances of the City of Trenton.

July 9, 2026. Staff Report

Fiscal Impact Summary
The City received a proposal from The Kleingers Group to provide professional services for the 2026
Local Paving Program, including project review with City staff, preparation of bid documents, bidding
coordination, contract award assistance, and construction administration services. The proposed
engineering fee is a base fee of $35,000. The paving program is being funded through the City's
street maintenance and capital improvement funds as appropriated in the 2026 budget.
Background Information
The 2026 Local Paving Program is part of the City's ongoing street maintenance and pavement
preservation efforts. City staff evaluated roadway conditions throughout the community and prioritized
streets for resurfacing based on pavement condition ratings, maintenance history, and overall roadway
deterioration. The proposed program includes resurfacing John Street (West State Street to West
Roger Drive), Brelsford Avenue (From West Roger to West Aberdeen). In addition to roadway
improvements, the program includes asphalt resurfacing and restriping within Community Park,
including the parking lot, basketball court, U-shaped drive and the walking path. Should favorable bid
pricing or additional funding become available, the city may also consider resurfacing Greenwood Lane
from North Miami Avenue to Westview Avenue and/or East Roger Drive from North Miami Avenue to
East Aberdeen Drive as alternate bid items.
Preliminary construction cost estimates prepared by The Kleingers Group indicate a base project cost
of approximately $880,354, which includes improvements to John Street, Brelsford Avenue, and
several asphalt surfaces within Community Park. With the recommended contingency, the total
estimated project cost is approximately $968,389. The project also includes alternate bid items for
Greenwood Lane and East Roger Drive, allowing the city to evaluate additional roadway improvements
based on bid pricing and available funding.

Attached Information
•

The Kleingers Group Professional Services Proposal

CINCINNATI
COLUMBUS
AKRON

LOUISVILLE
TAMPA/ST. PETE

AGREEMENT FOR LIMITED PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Prepared By

William Brock

Date

page 1 of 3

Client Information
Contact Name Brad Baker

2026 Trenton Local Paving Program

Project # 120209.132

Firm / Agency City of Trenton

General Various public streets in the City of Trenton,
Location Ohio
General
Description

www.kleingers.com

INDIANAPOLIS

5/12/2026

Project Information
Project Name

6219 Centre Park Drive
West Chester, OH 45069
p: 513.779.7851
f: 513.779.7852

Address 11 E State Street

Trenton OH 45067

Review of Streets selected to be resurface with
City Staff, Generate Bid documents, coordinate
bidding and contract award, CA

Phone (5132) 988-6304 ext 157
E-mail [email protected]

Scope of Services
Consultation

Location Plan

Traffic Counts

Topographic Survey

Easement Documents

Feasibility / Due Diligence

Grading Plan

Traffic Analyses

Boundary Survey

Survey Plat

Concept Plan

Utility Plan

Drainage Study

Construction Layout

Plot Plan

Construction Drawings

Landscape Plan

Permitting

Other

Bid Documents and Const. Admin

Additional
Information

Fee Arrangement
BASE FEE

Hourly -

Services will be invoiced each period for time expended at our standard hourly rates.
The estimated fee (amount or range) for this project is:
This figure is provided for your general reference. The total amount invoiced may exceed this
amount, depending on the total effort actually required to complete the scope of services.

The maximum (Not To Exceed) fee for this project is:
Fixed Fee -

The amount invoiced each period for services will be a portion of the base fee equivalent to the percent of
work completed during that period.
The base fee for this project is: $35,000

EXPENSES

In addition to the Base Fee, Client agrees to reimburse The Kleingers Group the amount advanced for reproductions, delivery
charges, mileage, and/or any other direct expense incurred on behalf of the project.
Costs for reproductions, delivery charges, mileage, and/or similar expenses are included within the Base Fee amount unless
otherwise specified. Permit fees, if any, are not included within the Base Fee and will be paid by the Client.

SCHEDULE

Work will commence:

Immediately, based on your verbal / email authorization. Please notify us immediately if this proposal
does not match your understanding of the project. Return a signed copy of the agreement for our records.
Upon receipt of a signed copy of this Agreement.
Upon receipt of a retainer in the amount of: $
Within

10-15

days of

receipt of a signed copy of this agreement

Expected duration of Services: approximately 10 weeks from authorization to proceed
AUTHORIZATION

Your signature on the last page of this document or other direction to proceed with the outlined Scope of Services indicates
you understand and agree with the above information as well as the Terms and Conditions on the following pages.

AGREEMENT FOR LIMITED PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

5/12/2026

120209.132

page 2 of 3

Terms and Conditions
SERVICES PROVIDED

The Kleingers Group, Inc., the “Consultant”, agrees to perform the professional
services (the “Project”) as described in the preceding paragraphs and referenced
documents for the “Client”,

City of Trenton
The Client agrees to:









Provide full information as to his requirements for the Project prior to
commencement of work on the Project;
Assist Consultant by placing at his disposal all available information
pertinent to the Project;
Authorize and guarantee access to the project location and make all
provisions for Consultant to enter upon private property, if required, to
perform his services under this Agreement;
Provide and pay for any and all legal, accounting, and insurance counseling
services, technical reports, laboratory tests, and governmental permits that
may be necessary for the Project;
Give prompt written notice to Consultant whenever the Client observes or
otherwise becomes aware of any defect or problem in the Project or other
event that may substantially affect Consultant performance of services
under this Agreement;
Promptly compensate Consultant for services rendered under this
Agreement as outlined in the preceding and subsequent paragraphs; and
Promptly review and act on all submissions made to him by Consultant.

TIME OF COMPLETION

Notwithstanding the forgoing, in recognition of the relative risks and benefits of the
Project to both Client and Consultant, the risks have been allocated such that the
Client agrees, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to limit the liability of the
Consultant to the Client for any and all claims, losses, costs, damages of any
nature whatsoever or claims expenses from any cause or causes, including
attorney’s fees and costs and expert-witness fees and costs, so that the total
aggregate liability of the Consultant to the Client shall be the remainder of the
Consultant’s insurance proceeds up to the greater of:
$ 50,000.00
or the Consultant’s total fee for services rendered under
this Agreement. It is intended that this limitation apply to any and all liability or
cause of action however alleged or arising, unless otherwise prohibited by law.
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, and to the fullest extent
permitted by law, neither the Client nor the Consultant, their respective officers,
directors, partners, employees, contractors, or subconsultants shall be liable to
the other or shall make any claim for any incidental, indirect or consequential
damages arising out of or connected in any way to the Project or to this
Agreement. This mutual waiver of consequential damages shall include, but is not
limited to, loss of use, loss of profit, loss of business, loss of income, loss of
reputation, or any other consequential damages that either party may have
incurred from any cause of action including negligence, strict liability, breach of
contract and breach of strict or implied warranty. Both the Client and the
Consultant shall require similar waivers of consequential damages protecting all
the entities or persons named herein in all contracts and subcontracts with others
involved in this project.
FORCE MAJEURE

Consultant agrees to perform the outlined Scope of Services within the periods
specified from receipt of Authorization to Proceed – exclusive of review time and
time to complete review responses. Since neither Consultant nor Client have any
control over reviews by third parties, the completion deadlines will be extended to
accommodate reviews.

Neither party shall be deemed in default of this Agreement to the extent that any
delay or failure in the performance of its obligations results from any cause
beyond its reasonable control and without its negligence, such as natural
disasters and “Acts of God.”

COMPENSATION

In the event of termination of this Agreement by either party, the Client shall within
fifteen (15) calendar days of termination pay the Consultant for all services
rendered and all reimbursable costs incurred by the Consultant up to the date of
termination, in accordance with the payment provisions of this Agreement. The
Client may terminate this Agreement for the Client’s convenience and without
cause upon giving the Consultant not less than seven (7) calendar days written
notice. Either party may terminate this Agreement for cause upon giving the other
party not less than seven (7) calendar days written notice for any of the following
reasons:

For the Scope of Services outlined in the preceding paragraphs, Client agrees to
pay Consultant the compensation outlined in this Agreement. Client will be
invoiced each month for any work performed during the period. Payment is due
30 days of the invoice date. Accounts outstanding past the due date
within ____
every month thereafter will be subject to a 1.5% service charge on the unpaid
balance monthly.
STANDARD OF CARE

Consultant agrees to provide professional services to a standard of care that
would be reasonably and professionally exercised by reputable design
professionals practicing in the same or similar locality and under similar
circumstances. Consultant makes no warranties, express or implied, under this
Agreement or otherwise, in connection with Consultant’s services.
INDEMNIFICATION / LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

The Consultant agrees, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to indemnify and
hold harmless the Client, its officers, directors, and employees (collectively,
Client) against all damages, liabilities or costs, including reasonable attorneys’
fees, and defense costs, to the extent caused by the Consultant’s negligent
performance of professional services under this Agreement and that of its subconsultants or anyone for whom the Consultant is legally liable.
The Client agrees, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to indemnify and hold
harmless the Consultant, its officers, directors, employees and subconsultants
(collectively, Consultant) against all damages liabilities or costs, including
reasonable attorneys’ fees and defense costs, to the extent caused by the Client’s
negligent acts in connection with the Project and the acts of its contractors,
subcontractors or consultants or anyone for whom the Client is legally liable.
In addition, the Client agrees that to the fullest extent permitted by law, no
shareholder, officer, director, principal, or employee of the Consultant shall have
personal liability under this Agreement, or for any matter in connection with the
professional services provided with the Project.
Neither the Client nor the Consultant shall be obligated to indemnify the other
party in any manner whatsoever for the other party’s own negligence.

TERMINATION OF CONTRACT






Substantial failure by the other party to perform in accordance with the
terms of this Agreement and through no fault of the terminating party;
Assignment of this Agreement or transfer of the Project by either party
to any other entity without the prior written consent of the other party;
Suspension of the Project or the Consultant’s services by the Client for
more than ninety (90) calendar days, consecutive or in the aggregate;
Material changes in the conditions under which this Agreement was
entered, the Scope of Services or the nature of the Project, and the
failure of the parties to reach an agreement on the compensation and
schedule adjustments necessitated by such changes;

In the event of any termination that is not the fault of the Consultant, the Client
shall pay the Consultant, in addition to payment for services rendered and
reimbursable costs incurred, for all expenses reasonably incurred by the
Consultant in connection with the orderly termination of this Agreement, including
but not limited to demobilization, reassignment of personnel, associated overhead
costs, and all other expenses directly resulting from the termination.
DISPUTE RESOLUTION

In an effort to resolve any conflicts that arise during the design and construction of
the Project or following the completion of the Project, the Client and the
Consultant agree that all disputes between them arising out of or in relation to this
Agreement or the Project shall be submitted to nonbinding mediation unless the
parties mutually agree otherwise. The Client and the Consultant further agree to
include a similar mediation provision in all agreements with independent
contractors and consultants retained for the Project and to require all independent
contractors and consultants also to include a similar mediation provision in all

AGREEMENT FOR LIMITED PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

5/12/2026

agreements with their subcontractors, subconsultants, suppliers, and fabricators,
thereby providing for mediation as the primary method for dispute resolution.
If mediation fails, Client and Consultant agree that they shall submit any unsettled
claims, counterclaims, disputes, and other matters in question between them
arising out of or relating to this Agreement to arbitration in accordance with the
Construction Industry Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association,
effective as of the date of this Agreement. If a dispute is not resolved after
arbitration, the judgment may be entered into any court having jurisdiction thereof.
Should litigation or arbitration occur between the two parties relating to the
provisions of the Agreement, it is agreed that the prevailing party shall be entitled
to recover all reasonable costs incurred in the defense / prosecution of the claim,
including staff time, court costs, attorney fees, and other claim-related expenses.

OPINIONS OF COST

120209.132

page 3 of 3

When included in Consultant’s scope of services, opinions or estimates of
probable construction cost are prepared on the basis of Consultant’s experience
and qualifications and represent Consultant’s judgment as a professional
generally familiar with the industry. However, since the Consultant has no control
over the cost of labor, materials, equipment or services furnished by others, over
contractor’s methods of determining prices, or over competitive bidding or market
conditions, Consultant cannot or does not guarantee that proposals, bids, or
actual construction costs will not vary from Consultant’s opinions of probable
construction cost.
JOBSITE SAFETY DISCLAIMER

All drawings and documents prepared or furnished by Consultant pursuant to this
Agreement are the instruments of Consultant’s professional service, and
Consultant shall retain an ownership and property interest therein. Consultant
grants Client a revocable license to use instruments of Consultant’s professional
service for the purpose of constructing, maintaining, or operating the Project.
Reuse or modification of any such instrument of Consultant’s professional service
by Client or any other third party entity or individual, without Consultant’s written
permission, shall be at Client’s sole risk. Client agrees to indemnify and hold
Consultant harmless from all claims, damages, and expenses, including
attorney’s fees, arising out of such unauthorized reuse by Client or third party
entity or individual acting under the direction of the Client. In no event will the
Consultant be responsible for the consequences of any such unauthorized
modification or reuse of the instruments of Consultant’s professional service.

Neither the professional activities of the Consultant, nor the presence of the
Consultant or its employees and subconsultants at a project site, shall relieve the
General Contractor of its obligations, duties and responsibilities including, but not
limited to, construction means, methods, sequence, techniques, or procedures
necessary for performing, superintending, and coordinating the work in
accordance with the contract documents and any health or safety precautions
required by any regulatory agencies. The Consultant and its personnel have no
authority to exercise any control over any construction contractor or its employees
in connection with their work or any health or safety programs or procedures. The
Client agrees that the General Contractor shall be solely responsible for jobsite
safety, and warrants that this intent shall be carried out in the Client’s contract
with the General Contractor. The Client also agrees that the Client, the Consultant
and the Consultant’s subconsultants shall be indemnified by the General
Contractor and shall be made additional insureds under the General Contractor’s
policies or general liability insurance.

FREE PUBLICITY

GOVERNING LAW

OWNERSHIP AND COPYRIGHT OF DOCUMENTS

Consultant has the right to photograph the Project and to use the photos in the
promotion of the professional practice through advertising, public relations,
brochures, or other marketing materials. Should additional photos be needed in
the future, Client agrees to provide reasonable access to the facility. Client also
agrees to cite the name of Consultant as the provider of the professional services
outlined in this Agreement in all publicity, presentations, and public relations
activities that mention the name or depict the facility. Client permits Consultant to
place temporary jobsite signs on the site that advertise the consultant’s brand and
involvement in the project.
USE OF ELECTRONIC MEDIA

Copies of documents that may be relied upon by Client are limited to printed
copies (also known as hard copies) that are signed or sealed by Consultant. Files
in electronic media format or text, data, graphic, or other types that are furnished
by Consultant to Client are only for the convenience of Client. Any conclusion or
information obtained or derived from such electronic files will be at the user’s sole
risk. When transferring documents in electronic media format, Consultant makes
no representations as to long-term compatibility, usability, or readability of
documents resulting from the use of software application packages, operating
systems or computer hardware differing from those in use by Consultant at the
beginning of this assignment.

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws
of the State that the project lies.
SEVERABILITY

If any term or provision hereof is illegal or invalid for any reason whatever, such
illegality of invalidity shall not affect the validity of the remaining terms of this
Agreement.
ASSIGNMENT OF AGREEMENT

Neither Client nor Consultant shall transfer, sublet, or assign any rights under or
interest in this Agreement (including but not limited to monies that are due or
monies that may be due) without the prior written consent of the other party.
Subcontracting to subconsultants normally contemplated by the Consultant shall
not be considered an assignment for purposes of this agreement.
EEO

The Kleingers Group supports an Affirmative Action Program. During the
performance of this contract, the Consultant intends to comply with all Federal,
state and local laws respecting discrimination in employment and non-segregation
of facilities including, but not limited to, requirements set out at 41 CFR 60 – 1.4,
and 60 – 741.5(a) 4, which equal opportunity clauses are hereby incorporated by
reference and 60 – 250.45 and 29 CFR Part 471, if applicable.

Authorization
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this Agreement to be executed and delivered by their duly authorized
representations, effective as of the Effective Date listed below.
The Kleingers Group, Inc.

Client: City of Trenton

SIGNED

SIGNED

William Brock

PRINTED

Marcos Nichols

PRINTED

Senior Project Manager

City Manager

TITLE

TITLE

5/12/2026
DATE SIGNED

5-26-2026

DATE SIGNED / AGREEMENT “EFFECTIVE DATE”:

RESOLUTION NO 10-2026
A RESOLUTION CREATING A CITIZENS COMMITTEE FOR PLANNING AND ZONING
ORDINANCES.
WHEREAS, City Council desires to create a citizens committee for Planning and Zoning Ordinance
updates; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Trenton, County of
Butler, Ohio:
SECTION 1. The Committee will review and look at various sections of the Trenton Zoning Code
as it relates to exterior property maintenance, fencing, and other zoning related items
and create a list of potential sections of Zoning Code to update to City Council; and,
SECTION 2. This will be a committee reporting to City Council. The Committee will comprise of
six (6) City of Trenton Residents who are Council appointees, one (1) member of the
Trenton Planning Commission, the Planning and Zoning Administrator as the Secretary
of the Committee; and
SECTION 3. The Committee once formed will hold its initial meeting as an organizational meeting
to appoint a chairperson for the committee and create organizational rules for the
committee. Within Six (6) months after the initial meeting, the committee will present
a list of proposed sections of codified ordinances for update to Council and after the
report has been submitted to Council, the Committee will have fulfilled its purpose and
be considered abolished.
SECTION 4. That this Resolution, being necessary for the safety and welfare of the Citizens of
Trenton, Ohio, shall take effect immediately upon its passage by Council.
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. 10-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the 23rd day of July, 2026 and that at least a majority of the elected members voted
in the affirmative on said motion.

__________________________________
Clerk of Council

RESOLUTION NO 11-2026
A RESOLUTION RESTRICTING RATE INCREASES ON WATER AND SEWER
CUSTOMERS OF THE CITY OF TRENTON USING LESS THAN 8,000 GALLONS
PER MONTH UNTIL JANUARY 1, 2032.
WHEREAS, Trenton Codified Ordinances 1040.40 and 1044.03 permit the City Finance
Director to raise water and sewer rates in an amount not to exceed the rate of inflation of the
Federal Consumer Price Index (CPI); and
WHEREAS, Such water and sewer rates for users below 8,000 gallons per month of usage
increased by 1% from January 2021 to May 2026, while Federal CPI has increased 21.2%
over the same period; and
WHEREAS, Due to inflationary cost pressures on the city water system, including materials,
capital items, system improvements, insurance, and staffing, expenses would require a 3.6%
annual rate increase on all users from 2027 through 2031; and
WHEREAS, Recent water loss mitigation and development endeavors in the Trenton
Industrial Park have yielded increased revenue capture, and water/sewer tap fee revenue of
$2,691,805 to provide for debt service and capital needs of the water system; and
WHEREAS, It is the desire of City Council to pursue continued development to defray the
tax and utility burden on Trenton residents while also providing funding for public
improvements;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Trenton,
County of Butler, Ohio:
SECTION 1. That the authority of the Finance Director to raise water rates on customers
using less than 8,000 gallons per month pursuant to Trenton Codified Ordinance
1044.03(a) is hereby restricted until January 1, 2032.
SECTION 2. That the authority of the Finance Director to raise sewer rates on customers
using less than 8,000 gallons per month pursuant to Trenton Codified Ordinance
1040.40(a)(1) is hereby restricted until January 1, 2032.
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

ATTEST:
Stanislav Beresford_________________________
CLERK OF COUNCIL

Mayor
Rules Suspended
AYES
NAYS_____
ABSENT

RESOLUTION NO 11-2026

CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Clerk of Council for the City of Trenton, Ohio, Ohio, hereby certify that the
foregoing Resolution No. 11-2026 is a true and correct copy as passed by the Council of the City of
Trenton, Ohio on the 23rd day of July, 2026 and that at least a majority of the elected members voted
in the affirmative on said motion.

__________________________________
Clerk of Council