The Bellefontaine Council met in regular session in a packed council chamber on Tuesday night and followed the recommendation of Rules Committee Chairman Jenna James to table the controversial golf cart ordinance.
James requested that the ordinance, slated for its second of the required three readings, be tabled so that the Rules Committee could further define the vehicles that the ordinance would cover and obtain clarification on the ordinance’s scope.
Several residents addressed the council in the public comment portion of the meeting, each voicing opposition to the adoption of the ordinance.
Also tabled was an ordinance scheduled for its first reading that would address the use of sound-amplification devices and loud noises. James cited the need for similar refining of definitions and clarification of scope.
Mayor David Crissman expressed his thanks to the many city departments that pitched in to make the July 3 fireworks a huge success. He said he has received many positive comments about the entire evening’s festivities. Parks Superintendent Rick Reed discussed the celebration:
Service Safety Director Wes Dodds echoed the mayor’s comments about the efforts of city departments and thanked all those involved in the clean-up, saying that he received positive comments from the schools about the condition of their parking lots.
Dodds also told the council that the Planning Commission met earlier in the day and voted to table the Detrick Farms subdivision plans for further evaluation and study of the soon-expected traffic study. Dodds hopes to get that study in the near future.
Fire Chief Brian Wilson informed the council that the department’s ladder truck developed serious motor issues and is currently in Columbus for repairs. The engine looks to need a major overhaul, and the work will be covered by warranty.
Parks Superintendent Rick Reed said that the opening of Harmon Field last weekend was very well attended. Reed spoke about the events of the day:
Reed also thanked long-time “unpaid employee” Terry Lunz for his tireless volunteer efforts to keep Fred Carter Park in great condition. Reed also thanked Vineyard Church, which recently sent crews to build three pedestrian bridges at the park to assist people walking the park’s trails.
The council then moved to the legislative portion of the meeting:
Ordinances for 1st Reading
- Ordinance 26-32 – An ordinance amending and restating Section 509.11, Sound Amplifying Devices and Loud Noises, of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Bellefontaine, Ohio. Councilmember James made a motion to table the ordinance. Motion carried.
Ordinances for 2nd Reading
- Ordinance 26-31 – An ordinance establishing Section 331.46 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Bellefontaine, Ohio, authorizing low-speed, under-speed utility vehicles and mini-trucks within said city. Councilmember James made a motion to table the ordinance. Councilmember Mick Lyle voted no. Motion carried.
Ordinances for 3rd Reading
- Ordinance 26-28 – An ordinance making supplemental appropriations and amending the Permanent Appropriations ordinance for purposes of parks. Ordinance adopted.
The next meeting of the Bellefontaine Council will be Tuesday, July 28th, 2026, at 7:30 PM in council chambers.
