An ordinance that would have amended zoning regulations to accommodate industrial solar projects within Bellefontaine city limits failed to pass during Tuesday’s city council meeting, while a separate ordinance to ban marijuana dispensaries in the city advanced to its third reading.
Council members Jenna James, Kyle Springs and John Aler voted against the solar ordinance, preventing its passage after a motion was made to waive the required three readings and approve it on the second reading.
Meanwhile, the marijuana dispensary ban — set for its second reading — did not receive enough support to waive the three-reading rule, meaning it will proceed to a third and final reading at the next meeting. Council members Mackenzie Fitzpatrick and Aler voted against the ordinance.
In financial matters, an ordinance setting permanent appropriations for the 2025 fiscal year passed its first reading. The budget represents a 14.84% increase over last year, bringing total city spending to approximately $36 million. The increase is attributed to previously allocated funds for a new fire truck, park bonds, and debt payments totaling $3.3 million, council members were told.
Council accepted a United Way of Logan County grant for community outreach. Additionally, an ordinance authorizing a contract with the Logan County Engineer’s Office and Harrison Township was approved to chip-seal the city’s portion of Township Road 46 near State Route 47 toward County Road 13.
Mayor Dave Crissman recognized the Rake and Hoe Garden Club for its decades-long commitment to beautifying Bellefontaine.
Police Chief Chris Marlow introduced Raven, a newly-certified therapy dog assigned to D.A.R.E. Officer Chiles. Fire Chief Brian Wilson reported that two firefighters, Jonathan Downing and Logan Searcy, graduate from EMT school this Friday.
Bellefontaine City Council meets again at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 11.