Explanation
Background: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to apply for grant funding from the Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) Clean Ohio Conservation Fund to preserve natural areas and green spaces in the 2027 fiscal year, including the acquisition of two properties for preservation of the City’s natural resources and future parkland.
The Ohio Public Works Commission’s Clean Ohio Conservation Fund is accepting 2027 applications for funding to preserve natural areas and green spaces. OPWC requires that a resolution, ordinance, or other written documentation to obligate funds for the project as part of the application. This ordinance is a commitment to provide the necessary match funds at a later date to satisfactorily complete the proposed project and become eligible for reimbursement under the terms and conditions of the grant. If the grant funding is awarded, future legislation will follow to authorize acceptance, appropriation, and expenditure of City funds.
The two properties and projects that this grant would support the acquisition of are as follows:
Site 1 - Southern Meadows - Inland Products Site
The project would acquire approximately 51 acres in the Southwest Community. The site has a high quality landscape of meadow and woodlands. If successful with the grant and subsequent acquisition, the property would become a significant centrally located greenspace for the surrounding neighborhoods. The Southwest Community is one of the city's most underserved areas for protected natural areas and parkland.
Site 2 - Hague Ravines - Vandervort Property
This project would acquire five acres of high-quality greenspace in the City’s West Scioto Community along Hague Avenue. The natural features of the site include a wooded ravine and stream. Stream preservation would be in a key property along a tributary flowing from Raymond Golf Course to the Scioto River. The Hague Avenue Corridor is one of the city's fastest de...
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