Kent · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Kent public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Feral Cat Feeding Ordinance
Kent's ordinance bans feeding wild animals, and feral cats are currently included. The Law Director wants feral cats removed from the ban so council can consider alternatives like TNR (trap-neuter-return) programs, following resident emails on both sides.
Deer Management in Kent
Kent's deer are basically city slickers now — no fear of humans, adapted to backyard living. The city is collecting crash and removal data and will report back on management options.
2027-31 Capital Improvement Plan
Council's Finance Committee will review the proposed five-year capital plan, which sets priorities and funding for infrastructure and city projects from 2027 through 2031.
JEDD Board Appointments and Contract Review
The Franklin-Kent JEDD brings in income tax revenue shared with Franklin Township, and its board terms are expiring. Council will consider re-appointing two members and discuss why expanding the JEDD's business participation has been difficult.
Utility Rates for the 2031 Sewer Relocation Project
The city is planning a major sewer relocation project in 2031 and is weighing utility rate options to pay for it. Residents and businesses could see changes in their water and sewer bills depending on the option chosen.
Feeding Wild Animals and Fowl Ordinance Amendment
The city is proposing to amend its rules on feeding wild animals and fowl. Depending on the final language, this could affect residents who feed birds or other wildlife in their yards. The emergency clause means any change would take effect immediately upon adoption.
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.
Gas-powered leaf blowers
City Council has asked the Sustainability Commission to weigh in on gas-powered leaf blowers, which raise concerns about noise and emissions. Any eventual rules could affect landscaping companies and homeowners alike.
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.
Rural EMS and dispatch modernization grant
A proposed ordinance lets the Kent Fire Department apply for a state grant to buy dispatch software and equipment for its paramedicine program — a boost for emergency response if awarded.
Towing and storage fee review request
City Service and Bakers Service Center asked the city to raise the city's towing and storage fees. The city manager issued a temporary rate increase on October 5 while council works toward a final decision.
Rescission of Klaben CRA tax-incentive agreements
Two tax-incentive deals with Klaben Auto Group were scrapped because the dealerships' national corporate parents wouldn't release construction payroll data. Oddly, this is good news for schools: they now collect full property taxes instead of a quarter of them.
Cemetery worker pay raises
Standing Rock Cemetery staff will see cost-of-living raises effective June 1, 2026, with hourly rates between $14 and $22.50 depending on classification.
Corporate money in politics and Citizens United
The annual charter-required hearing lets residents weigh in on whether corporate campaign spending is drowning out ordinary voters. Speakers pushed for a 28th Amendment overturning Citizens United.
2025 Charter Review Commission Council action
Voters will be asked to lower the vote needed to suspend the rules and pass emergency measures from three-fourths to two-thirds, matching Robert's Rules — something council says would make special meetings easier.