Development News for Dayton, Ohio

City Authorizes Sale of Historic Building, Seeks Federal Grant for Northwest Dayton Safety Improvements, and Approves State Road Resurfacing

The commission reviewed several infrastructure and funding-related items. These included authorizing the sale of 40 South Edwin Moses Boulevard to Zion Baptist Church for economic development, involving a mixed-use development of up to 120 housing units with adaptive reuse and historic preservation. The sale is considered an emergency due to Magnus Capital Partners' deadline. Additionally, the city is consenting to ODOT's resurfacing of State Route 444, a $5.27 million project funded by ODOT. Finally, authorization is sought to apply for a $6 million federal grant for safer streets and faster response in Northwest Dayton, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, which would require a 20% local match ($1.2 million).

Commission Schedules Police Work Session and Retreat to Address Gun Violence; Emphasizes Comprehensive, Community-Involved Approach

Following public comment, the commission discussed matters related to public safety and community engagement. A work session with the police department is scheduled for June 10th to address community concerns regarding gun violence. The commission also committed to a retreat to delve deeper into these issues and explore best practices. The Felons with the Future program was highlighted as a crucial component of the city's strategy, with a commitment to making it a permanent budget item and expanding its reach. There was a strong emphasis on a comprehensive, multi-angle approach to violence reduction, involving community stakeholders, churches, youth organizations, businesses, and individual residents as 'peace ambassadors.' The importance of addressing underlying issues like poverty, housing instability, and investing in youth was reiterated.

Felons with the Future CVG Program Highlights 82 Days of No Gun Violence in North Riverdale; Commission Pledges Support for Expansion

The Felons with the Future CVG program presented to the City Commission to raise awareness for Gun Violence Awareness Month. The program has achieved 82 days of no gun violence in the North Riverdale area through community outreach and engagement. Several members of the program spoke about their experiences and the program's impact. Commissioners expressed support for the program and a commitment to its expansion citywide, aiming to make it a permanent budgeted item.

City Commission Approves Sale of Historic Property, Student Vision Plan; Moves Forward with Infrastructure Funding and Road Resurfacing

During the legislation portion, the commission addressed several items. Ordinance 32191-26, authorizing the sale of 40 South Edwin Moses Boulevard for economic development, was passed on its second reading as an emergency ordinance with four votes in favor. Resolution 6936-26, adopting the City of Dayton's Student Vision Master Plan and establishing the Mayor's Children's Cabinet, was also passed on its second reading as an emergency resolution with four votes in favor. First readings were held for Ordinance 32192-26 concerning the State Route 444 resurfacing, Resolution 6934-26 for applying for the Safe Street and Roads for All (SS4A) grant, and Resolution 6935-26 to apply for water supply revolving loan account funding for various water infrastructure projects.