Kent · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Kent public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
FirstEnergy Easement at Columbus Street Parking Lot
The city is considering granting a new utility easement to FirstEnergy at the Columbus Street parking lot, which would allow utility facilities on public parking property.
Sustainable Kent Award Program
The commission is developing a Sustainable Kent Awards program to recognize and encourage local sustainability efforts, distinct from the Portage Park District Awards. It's still in early planning, with an informal pitch for Kent Environmental Council co-sponsorship.
Shed setback variance on a substandard corner lot
Homeowners on a narrow corner lot at 251 Dodge Street needed to cut the required 10-foot spacing between house and accessory structure down to 5 feet to fit a storage shed. The house has no garage, basement, or attic, so storage is a real need.
Lights Out! bat event at Plum Creek
The commission is hosting a Lights Out! bat event on Friday, Oct. 9 from 7-8:30 p.m. at Plum Creek, with a rain date of Oct. 10. Flyers will be printed and shared with the Kent Environmental Council and around town, with possible tabling at the Haymaker Farm Market on Oct. 3.
Community food waste and recycling bin
A food waste/recycling bin is now open to everyone at the United Methodist Church, courtesy of the Kent Environmental Council. It has a latch to keep critters out.
KSU Town-Gown Relations and Enrollment
Kent State reports enrollment pressure from demographics and international visa issues, but touts a 51% graduation rate and strong downtown student engagement, including a successful Flash's First Friday drawing thousands of students downtown.
Trick-or-treating timing
Resident John Bard asked council to move Beggars Night to evening hours, noting surrounding communities trick-or-treat after dark and downtown's festival runs later than neighborhood trick-or-treating.
Sustainability Commission appointment of Ash D'Angelo
Ash D'Angelo was unanimously appointed to the Sustainability Commission, filling a seat on the volunteer board that guides the city's environmental initiatives.
Unlawful noise ordinance amendment
Council amended Section 509.12 of the city codified ordinances, the 'Unlawful Noise' provision. The text of the changes wasn't discussed in detail at the meeting.
Sustainability Commission appointment — Ash D'Angelo
Ash D'Angelo was appointed to the Sustainability Commission by unanimous vote, with the enabling resolution passing on first reading.
Davey Arboretum joint use agreement
The city, Davey Tree, and Kent City Schools will share use of the John Davey Arboretum alongside the new Davey Seed Campus.
Kent Designated a Purple Heart City
Portage County Auditor Matt Kelly presented Kent with a Purple Heart City plaque and signage is planned, honoring combat-wounded veterans in the community.
Continued property tax exemptions for local employers
Council continued tax exemption agreements with Davey Tree, Mazda's KMPH Real Estate and Klaben Property Management under the enterprise zone and community reinvestment area programs.
Safety Town Community Park Project
Rotary and the city are building a Safety Town in the South End with painted streets, a walking trail and open park-style access year-round — a legacy amenity for families.
Stormwater Ordinance Compliance
The Ohio EPA audited Kent's stormwater program and found four gaps. Council approved ordinance fixes — mostly paperwork and definitions, no added cost.
No-parking changes on Nathan and Philip Drives
After a December 2025 safety review, no-parking zones on Nathan and Philip Drives move from the south side to the north side near hydrants; Adrian, Bruce, Cottage Gate, and Nicholas were checked too, with a few signs to be rehung.
Celebrate Kent! 2026 event grants
$13,800 of the $15,000 annual downtown-events fund was distributed — every applicant was funded, including first-timer Kent State's Flashes First Friday. Staff will survey businesses on the events' economic impact.
Position allocation change (executive session)
Council met privately on a personnel matter and approved a position allocation change that will be voted at the March 18 regular meeting.
Historic designation of the Kent Historical Society home
The Claphwood Ward home at 237 East Main — built for the family of Kent's founder — becomes the city's eighth local historic property, protecting its restored historic character.
Bliss Ohio cannabis dispensary extended hours
The dual-use dispensary sought to match competitors' hours, with the biggest change being a few extra hours on Sundays. Police reported almost no problems since it opened, and council gave its blessing.
East Grant Street Parking Changes
The city amended its parking code to change permissible parking conditions on East Grant Street.
March for the Arts school partnership
Students from four Kent schools will create art about what home means to them, shown in 17 downtown businesses through March, with a kickoff reception March 13 at City Hall.
Water main break prevention success
After the 2002 Fairchild Avenue water tower failure, the city reworked its system management — and went 220 days without a single water main break this year, freeing up crews for potholes and streets.