Development News for Westerville, Ohio

Westerville Provides Update on Backflow Prevention Program to Ensure Water Safety

Adam McDowell, Water Utility Manager, presented an update on the Westerville Backflow Prevention Program. He explained that backflow is the contamination of potable water with contaminated water and emphasized its importance for public safety, utility integrity, and legal compliance (Ohio Plumbing Code, Ohio Administrative Code 3745-95, and city ordinance). The program involves maintaining a cross-connection policy to identify and prevent potential mixing points. Planning and Development reviews permits for new construction to ensure no cross-connections. The meter and backflow department conducts on-site audits and maintains an online database (CINCTA) for certified backflow devices, which must be tested annually. The city will update its cross-connection policy to streamline hazard identification and align with the latest Ohio Administrative Code and EPA guidance. A communications plan will be implemented starting June 2026, with bill inserts, postcards, and social media to raise awareness, followed by direct mail for deficiencies. The goal is to have the new cross-connection policy finalized by June 2026.

Westerville City Council Rejects 64 East Walnut Street Proposal Amidst Resident Concerns

The Westerville City Council convened a meeting where Ordinance 2026-11, related to a proposal for 64 East Walnut Street, was discussed. After initial deliberation and a motion to advance the second reading, the council ultimately voted to reject the ordinance. Mayor Grimes emphasized that the rejection was in response to resident feedback indicating discomfort with the project and concerns about the communication process. Following the rejection, Mayor Grimes outlined a series of commitments regarding future engagement on the property, including an open house, compilation of goals and priorities, a detailed explanation of the city's process, and information on fund impacts and property valuation factors. No further agenda items related to 64 East Walnut will be considered until these steps are completed. This decision followed significant public comment and engagement from residents and community groups.

Westerville Council Approves Purchase of Road Rejuvenator Using ODOT Contract

During the Westerville City Council meeting, a motion was made and seconded to authorize the city manager to purchase liquid asphalt with materials in place, application services from Pavement Technology, utilizing an Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) cooperative contract. Mr. Lang explained that this liquid asphalt acts as a 'rejuvenator' for roads, similar to lotion for cracked hands, reducing small cracks and restoring elasticity to extend pavement life. He noted that the city has been using this ODOT contract for four years, which saves money and allows funds to be reallocated to other road maintenance. The council unanimously approved the motion.

Westerville Council Considers Updated Regulations for E-bikes and Personal Transportation Devices

During a Westerville City Council meeting, Ordinance 2026-12 was presented for its first reading. This ordinance aims to modernize regulations for bicycles, electric bicycles, and personal transportation devices (PTDs) to address safety concerns arising from increased usage. Key provisions include defining PTDs as a new category for devices not otherwise classified, establishing rules for where these devices can operate (roadways, bike lanes, shared paths unless prohibited), and prohibiting operation on sidewalks in business districts and shopping centers, including Uptown. The ordinance requires operators to yield to pedestrians and give audible signals before passing. Specific speed limits are proposed for different facilities: 8 mph on sidewalks, 15 mph on shared paths and in parks, 20 mph in bike lanes, and compliance with posted road speeds on roadways. A significant safety provision requires all individuals under 18 to wear helmets, with a parental accountability clause for helmet violations. The ordinance also addresses concerns about e-bike modifications and includes provisions for impounding devices used in violations. The Chief of Police presented the ordinance, highlighting the need to balance safety with the evolving use of micro-mobility devices. Public comment raised concerns about enforcement, speed, and the definition of PTDs, particularly regarding accessibility for individuals with disabilities.