The City of Green Selected as a Best Hometown by Ohio Magazine
Mayor Rocco Yeargin is pleased to announce that Ohio Magazine has named Green a Best Hometown for 2025-2026.
To determine this year’s honorees, Ohio Magazine solicited nominations in the spring and conducted visits across the state over the summer. The editors evaluated finalists in six categories — Community Spirit, Education, Entertainment,
Health and Safety, Business Environment, and Culture and Heritage — to help make their selections.
The magazine’s editors chose Green in part for its impressive parks, reuse of historic spaces as modern concepts, and variety of residential housing.
Green will be featured in Ohio Magazine in November.
Explore The CORE at the Grand Opening Event on November 15 and November 16
The City welcomes all to join us for the official ribbon cutting and grand opening of The CORE on Saturday, November 15 from 9 am to 1 pm. Explore the features
The CORE has to offer, grab a bite to eat, sign up for a membership, enjoy family activities and entertainment, and more! Members of The CORE can enjoy a members only celebration on Sunday, November 16. See more details about The CORE on pages 7-8.
Learn more at cityofgreen.org/TheCORE
Rocco Yeargin, Mayor mayor@cityofgreen.org (330) 896-6602
Best Hometown 2025–2026!
We’re proud to share that Green has been named one of Ohio Magazine’s Best Hometowns for 2025–26! This is a well-earned recognition of our incredible community, the people, the places, and the welcoming spirit that makes Green such a special place to call home. It's a moment to celebrate and a chance to share with the rest of Ohio what we already know: Green is something truly exceptional.
Our Fight for One Zip Code Continues
While we celebrate this honor, we’re also continuing the important work of getting Green a single, unified zip code.
Right now, Green is split among five different zip codesnone of which say “Green, Ohio”. This might have made sense decades ago, back when we were a small township. But today, we’re the fastest-growing city in Summit County, and our zip code should reflect who we are.
Changing a zip code isn’t quick or simple. Mayors before me have raised the issue with the postal service and now, we’ve taken that request further than it’s ever gone. In June, Green was included in a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives alongside other communities facing similar challenges. The bill passed the House but now awaits action in the Senate—a process that will take persistence and strong advocacy.
Do you think Green should have its own zip code? Fill out the survey and let us know!
We’re fortunate to have the support of leaders including U.S. Senator Jon Husted, Congresswoman Emilia Sykes, Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro, Sheriff Kandy Fatheree, and many business partners. But we’ll also need the voices of our residents and local businesses to be heard.
If you believe Green deserves a zip code of its own, please visit cityofgreen.org/zip and take our short survey. Your input matters. It helps strengthen our case and shows just how united our community really is.
City of Green Contact Information:
General Information (330) 896-5500
Mayor’s Office (330) 896-6602
City Council (330) 896-6604
Engineering Department (330) 896-5510
Finance Department (330) 896-6603
Highway/Stormwater Division (330) 896-6607
Human Resources Division (330) 896-4138
Income Tax Division (330) 896-6622
Law Department
Lisa Carey Dean, Law Director (330) 896-6615
Parks & Recreation Division (330) 896-6621
Planning Department (330) 896-6614
Public Service Department (330) 896-4176
Zoning Division (330) 896-6605
9-1-1 Emergency
Fire Division Non-Emergency Number (330) 896-6610
Summit County Sheriff Non-Emergency Number (330) 643-2181
Interested in becoming more involved with your city? Consider applying to serve on one of the City of Green’s various boards and commissions. Applications are currently being accepted through the end of November. Positions are available on the Board of Zoning Appeals, Planning & Zoning Commission, Design Review Board, Historic Preservation Commission, Veterans Advisory Board, Living Green Task Force, and the Charter Review Commission. Apply at cityofgreen.org/BoardsCommissionsOnlineApplication
To see the requirements of each position, visit cityofgreen.org/boards-commissions
In addition, the United States is celebrating 250 years of Independence in 2026, and the City of Green is putting together a City of Green America 250 Committee. If you are interested in being a part of this Committee, please email communications@cityofgreen.org
Green Community Leadership Initiative
Green Leadership Applications
Open November 15
The City is accepting applications from November 15 –December 31, 2025 for the fifth Green Leadership Initiative for the Spring 2026 cohort. Residents or Green business leaders are invited to apply for the six-session program which provides an inside peek into our community including topics such as education, health and wellness, quality of life, and safety. Up to 20 class members are accepted per class. For more details or to apply, visit cityofgreen.org/leadership
Special Thanks to Our 2025 Sponsors
Special thank you to Serra Auto Park for their second year sponsoring the Central Park Summer Celebration. Thank you to all of our 2025 event and project sponsors:
Alpine Landscaping
ANR Electric
Bisesi's Bicycle & Fitness
Cristan's Stage
Donamarc Water Systems Co
EXP Realty
First Energy
Fun Booth Canton
General RV
Gervasi Vineyard & Twisted Olive
Hammer and Nails
Hometown Roofing & Construction
Kempthorn Motors
LMNT
my FitLife Personal Training
Nancy Bartlebaugh
RE/MAX Trends
Northeast Ohio
Pickleball Players
NOPEC
Pav's Creamery
Prismatic Fiber Arts
Quality Heating & Cooling
Raintree Golf and Event Center
Ryan Homes
SEL Benefits
Selkirk Sport
StageWorX
Sue Spargo Folk-art Quilts
Sweet Frog Premium
Frozen Yogurt
Town Tavern
Uniquely You
Magazine
Waylon’s Handcrafted Ice Cream
2026 Sponsorship
Opportunities Open
The City of Green offers a wide range of sponsorship opportunities to businesses and organizations. From event sponsorships to prize donations, we want to work with you. Learn more at cityofgreen.org/Sponsorships
news CITY
Backyard Chicken Ordinance Updated
The City of Green now permits chicken hens on properties less than 2 acres. No other animals or livestock are included in this change, and roosters are not allowed. Residents newly permitted to raise chickens must adhere to restrictions on the number of chickens, space requirements, and permitted activities.
If your HOA or deed prohibits chickens, you cannot raise
them. Check with your HOA or Summit County Fiscal Office for restrictions. Below is the chicken allowance based on property size:
• Under 20,000 sq ft: 0 chickens
• 20,000 sq ft to 1 acre: up to 6 chickens
• 1 to 2 acres: up to 8 chickens
• 2 to 5 acres: up to 4 chickens per acre
Any lot size can cultivate bees, flowers, grapes, or other horticulture, but agricultural structures must be on lots over 5 acres.
To raise chickens, apply for an annual certificate of approval from the Zoning Division. Requirements include a detailed application and annual coop inspections. Coops must be well-built, located in the backyard, and meet specific size and distance requirements.
Sanitary rules include proper waste disposal, no on-site slaughtering or sales of chicken meat. Violations may result in enforcement actions.
For more information, visit cityofgreen.org/ PermitsLicenses
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded an Older Adult Home Modification Grant (OAHMP) to Summit County. The grant will allow the County to undertake a multi-year program designed to keep older adults in their home and allow them to complete the necessary activities of daily living.
In Summit County, the Department of Community Development aids in making homes age friendly. The federal funding will support the installation of highimpact home modifications such as stair rails, grab bars, ADA toilets, bathtub cut-outs, pathway lighting, stair tread replacement, temporary ramps, tub/ shower chairs, and more. Applications can be downloaded at cityofgreen. org/HomeRepairGrants.
For assistance with applications email Sarah Haring at sharing@ cityofgreen.org
news CITY
Fiber Internet Expanding to Green Neighborhoods
High-speed fiber internet is on its way to neighborhoods across the City of Green. This fall internet providers are installing new underground fiber lines. Contractors hired by each internet provider are working on the installations. Before construction begins, existing underground utility lines are marked by Ohio Utility Protection Services (OUPS). It is also recommended that residents with private facilities like dog fences, sprinkler systems, and down spouts clearly mark them, as these are not recorded on public utility maps and not part of the OUPS system.
To stay informed, sign up for our text alerts by texting GREENOH to 99411. Follow the prompt to register your address to receive project-specific updates, road closures, and emergency notifications from Green Fire. The City does not have additional info on when fiber internet service will be available.
The Veterans Advisory Commission Invites you to
Nominate a Veteran or Join Their Contact List
Every year the City of Green honors local Veterans as part of the annual Veterans Day Ceremony. Nominate a loved one to be honored at cityofgreen.org/Veterans or call 330-896-6621
To keep up to date with our Veterans Advisory Commission, join their email list with the QR code.
Text GREENOH to 99411
Introducing New Finance Director: Shelley Goodrich, JD, CPA
The City of Green welcomes Shelley Goodrich, JD, CPA, as the new Finance Director following the retirement of Steve Schmidt. Shelley previously served as a Senior Assistant Attorney General at the Ohio Attorney General's Office. Goodrich also served as the Deputy Director of Finance for the City of Akron. Congratulations to Steve on his retirement and welcome to the City of Green, Shelley!
Are You Registered for Emergency Text Alerts?
Green Fire sends emergency alerts, like severe weather warnings, through a text system called Code Red. These alerts are also used to let residents know about road closures and construction nearby. To get these alerts, sign up by texting GREENOH to 99411. Immediately you will receive a text message with a link to register. You can create an account or sign in as a guest, but please make sure to add your home address. If there’s an emergency near you, like a road closure, you will get a message just for your area. Learn more at cityofgreen.org/GreenAlert
Welcome to The CORE: Center of Recreation and Education
1717 Steese Road | A City of Green facility
The grand opening for The CORE is right around the corner, bringing new opportunities for resident recreation, fitness classes, sports training, community events, and much more.
The CORE features:
• 4 full-sized basketball courts (2 courts with bleachers)
• Indoor turf field
• Fitness studio space
• Indoor walking track
• Rooftop terrace
• Athletic performance equipment
While these facilities offer new spaces to Green sports teams and organizations, they are also available for individuals looking to utilize the spaces for their fitness and educational needs. The CORE is now home to the City of Green’s indoor fitness programing, special events, and SilverSneakers. Individual and family memberships are on sale now.
Memberships
CORE memberships are on sale now for resident and nonresident individuals and families offering access to all facility features, fitness classes, and special events. Resident memberships purchased before November 30, 2025, qualify for Charter Membership status and come at a discounted rate. Charter members will see lifetime perks (e.g. discounts and special offers) and the first 500 Charter members will receive a free CORE hat or water bottle with purchase.
MEMBERSHIP RATES
Opening weekend is November 15 & 16, learn more on page 1.
Meet Our CORE Staff
Zack Kaufman Parks and Recreation Supervisor
As the Supervisor for The CORE, I facilitate the scheduling of courts and fields for youth sports teams and community use. Additionally, I manage staff and assist in planning the programming for the facility.
Favorite Sport: Baseball
Favorite activity at The CORE: I am excited for every activity at the CORE. I think individuals of all ages and abilities will find value in this facility!
Something unique about me: I play guitar and bass and enjoy writing and recording music.
Katie Jaworski Recreation Programmer
As the Recreation Programmer for The CORE, I oversee the planning, organization, and evaluation of a variety of programs and activities designed for families, youth, adults, and seniors.
Favorite Sport: Soccer
Favorite activity at The CORE: All of it! I’m most excited for the Rogue TRX performance equipment that will help our youth sports teams and others improve their athletic performance. Something unique about me: I’ve run two marathons to date and am currently training for the Chicago 2025 and the Boston 2026 marathons.
The CORE is attached to Green Middle School. What security measures are in place?
The CORE is connected to Green Middle School, but it runs on its own and has its own secure entrance. Everyone must show a government-issued ID or driver’s license to get in. Security cameras, staff, secured doors, and policies keep everyone safe and make sure the recreation areas and school areas stay separate. The CORE team has been working closely with the Green Local Schools administration to ensure security measures align with the districts expectations
Parker Green
Parks and Recreation Mascot
I attend special events for photo opportunities. I feel my presence at these events provides joy.
Favorite Sport: Basketball, pickleball, I play it all!
Favorite activity at The CORE: Yoga. I may be a red fox, but you should see my yoga pose downward dog.
Something unique about me: I love hugs.
Will fitness classes be free to members?
The City plans to move our fitness classes to The CORE. Most standard group fitness classes will be included in your CORE membership. However, certain specialty classes or programs may incur additional discounted fees.
How do I prove that I'm a resident?
Residents can show the address on their ID or on an utility bill.
Read all the FAQs at cityofgreen.org/TheCORE
Learn more or purchase your membership at cityofgreen.org/TheCORE
news CITY
Willadale Trail
events CITY
september
Parker’s Trail Challenge
Through October 31
See page 8 for details
Lace up your shoes and grab your walking stick for Parker’s Trail Challenge! Enjoy nine of our established trails throughout the City of Green. Once finished, submit your challenge form for your Parker’s Trail Challenge backpack (first year only) and your 2025 completion patch. Download additional challenge forms at cityofgreen.org/TrailChallenge
The Women Who Built Green’s New Schools Panel Discussion
Presented by the Inclusion & Belonging Committee
September 25 | 5:30 pm
Green Elementary School, 1711 Steese Rd
Hear from a panel of the women behind the design, planning, and development of the Green Elementary School, Green Middle School, and The CORE. Learn more at cityofgreen.org/Inclusion
october
Bulldog Dash
Green Local Schools
October 5 | 8 am
Green Memorial Stadium, 1737 Steese Rd
Calling all bulldogs! Get your running paws ready for the Bulldog Dash 5k and Fun Run benefiting Green Elementary and Green Primary Schools. Participate in four of the eight Great Eight races and receive a FREE Green Great Eight Race Series sweatshirt. Register online at cityofgreen.org/Great8
Mayor Morning Meet-up
September 26 | 9 am
Fire Station #1, 4200 Massillon Rd
Enjoy a cup of joe and a good chat with Mayor Rocco Yeargin and Fire Chief Jeff Funai. No registration required. Learn more at cityofgreen.org/Mayor
Twisted Wilderfest
September 27 | 10 am – 5 pm
Southgate Park, 5300 Massillon Rd
New this year: Twisted WilderFest Jr.
see page 12 for details
CAK On the Runway
Akron-Canton Airport
October 5 | 8 am
MAPS Air Museum, 2260 International Pkwy
Enjoy a unique view of the Akron-Canton Airport - from the runway! A portion of the proceeds will go to the MAPS Air Museum. Participate in four of the eight Great Eight races and receive a FREE Green Great Eight Race Series sweatshirt. Register online at cityofgreen.org/Great8
Stay connected with the City of Green.
Sign up for our enewsletters at www.cityofgreen.org/enews Receive text alerts by texting GREENOH to 99411.
HalloWin Race
Rayl Charitable Organization
October 18 | 8 am
Boettler Park, 5300 Massillon Rd
Rayl Charitable Organization's HalloWin Race includes a 5k race and 1-mile fun run. This event has $2,000 in prizes, fun costumes, and a whole lot of candy! Proceeds benefit the Debbie Rayl Kindness for Kids Program. Participate in four of the eight Great Eight races and receive a FREE Green Great Eight Race Series sweatshirt. cityofgreen.org/Great8
news CITY
Trick-or-Treat Trail, Costume Contest, and Movie-in-the-Park
October 18 | 2:15 pm Costume Contest, 3 pm Trail, 5 pm Movie
Central Park, 1795 Steese Rd
Green Fire Push-in Ceremony & Fire Prevention Week Open House
October 11 | 9 am – 11 am | 10 am Ceremony
Fire Station #1
4200 Massillon Rd
Green Fire Department welcomes a new heavy rescue truck into service with an open house during Fire Prevention Week. Stop by for children’s activities, refreshments, informational tables, and more. Learn more at cityofgreen.org/Fire
The Costume Contest begins at 2:15 pm and Trick-or-Treat Trail begins at 3 pm. Take a walk around the park and collect candy from Green businesses and organizations. Enter the costume contest to win prizes and show off your creativity! Admission is a nonperishable food item. New this year: after gathering your candy, enjoy a free showing of E.T. with commentary from Joe Fortunato. Businesses and organizations interested in passing out candy can sign up by emailing parks@cityofgreen.org by October 10. Learn more at cityofgreen.org/TrickorTreatTrail
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
October 25 | 10 am – 2 pm
Volunteer
Appreciation Breakfast
October 25 | 9 am
Central Park Community Hall, 1795 Steese Rd
City of Green Volunteers are invited to enjoy a delicious thank you breakfast, on us! Deadline to register is October 20. Register at cityofgreen.org/Volunteer or call 330-896-6602.
Fire Station #2, 393 East Turkeyfoot Lake Rd
Summit County Sheriff’s Department collects unwanted, unused, or expired prescription drugs allowing participants a safe means of disposing of prescription medicine.
Community Wide Trick-or-Treat Night
October 25 | 6 pm – 8 pm
Leave your porch light on, if you plan on participating in the annual community wide trickor-treat night.
Mayor’s Morning Meet-Up
October 31 | 9 am
The CORE, 1717 Steese Rd
Tour The CORE, enjoy a cup of joe, and a good chat with Mayor Rocco Yeargin and Green Service Director Valerie Wax Carr. No registration required. Learn more at cityofgreen.org/Mayor
november
Election Day
November 4
6:30 am – 7:30 pm
The registration deadline for the November 4 general election is Monday, October 6. Visit SummmitCountyBoe.gov for election information.
Veterans Day Ceremony
November 11 | 10:45 am
Veterans Memorial Park, 1900 Steese Rd
In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved indoors to the Queen of Heaven Parish Life Center, 1800 Steese Rd
The City of Green honors local Veterans as part of the Veterans Day Ceremony. Nominate a loved one to be honored by calling 330-8966621 or visit cityofgreen.org/Veterans
The CORE Grand Opening Weekend
November 15 & 16 | 9 am
The City welcomes all to join us for the official ribbon cutting and grand opening of The CORE, November 15 from 9 am to 1 pm and will include family activities, entertainment, food and more. Enjoy a members only celebration on November 16. Learn more at cityofgreen.org/TheCORE
events CITY
Senior Bus Trip: Christmas Connection
November 21 | 9 am – 3 pm
Central Park Parking lot, 1795 Steese Rd
Discover the holiday joy of worry-free travel with our Senior Bus Trips! Enjoy a trip to the IX Center’s Christmas Connection! Deadline to register is November 14. Register by calling 330-8966621 or visit cityofgreen.org/Register
Great Eight Race Series: Turkey Trot
Green Professionals Association
November 27 | 8 am
Green Memorial Stadium, 1737 Steese Rd
The Turkey Trot 5k is the Green Professionals Association’s marquee event, providing funding for collegiate scholarships awarded to Green High School Seniors. Participate in four of the eight Great Eight races and receive a FREE Green Great Eight Race Series sweatshirt. Register online at cityofgreen.org/Great8
Small Business Saturday
November 29
Participating Local Green Businesses
Sponsored by the Green Chamber of Commerce and local businesses throughout Green.
Shop participating Green businesses on Saturday, November 29 and submit your receipt to info@greenareachamber.org to be entered into a drawing for prize baskets from local businesses. Learn more at greenareachamber.org
Monday, October 13
Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Tuesday, November 11
Veterans Day
Thursday & Friday, November 27 & 28
Thanksgiving Thursday, December 25
Christmas
City Offices Closed
Thursday, January 1
New Year’s Day
Monday, January 19
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Monday, February 16
Presidents’ Day
On weekends or holidays, contact Dispatch’s nonemergency line at 330-8966610 for immediate assistance. In the event of an emergency, call or text 911.
december
Senior Holiday Lunch
December 4 | 11:30 am
Raintree Golf and Event Center, 4350 Mayfair Rd
Enjoy a holiday lunch with music and giveaways! Registration is required. The deadline to register is November 21. Register by calling 330-896-6621 or visit cityofgreen.org/Register
Holiday Concert
Featuring the Akron Symphonic Winds
December 16 | 7 pm
The Chapel in Green, 1800 Raber Rd
Enjoy the holiday melodies of the Akron Symphonic Winds. Doors open at 6 pm, show starts at 7 pm. Purchase tickets by calling 330-896-6621 or visit cityofgreen.org/Register
Christmas at Central Park
December 6 | 3 pm
Central Park, 1795 Steese Rd
Ring in the holiday season with snacks, music, train rides, fireworks, and a holiday pop-up market! At 5:30 pm a very jolly guest will join us for pictures - Santa! Learn more at cityofgreen.org/Christmas
State of the City Address
Thursday, January 29, 2026
7 pm, Green High School Auditorium, 1474 Boettler Rd
Enjoy handmade crafts, food vendors, hay rides, pumpkin painting, and more at Twisted WilderFest, Saturday, September 27. Experience fall in Green’s signature nature park, Southgate Park, located at 5300 Massillon Rd, adjacent to Boettler Park. This collaboration of nature and makers is the perfect way to kick off your fall season. Parking and admission is free! Learn more at cityofgreen.org/TwistedWilderFest
NEW THIS YEAR
We are excited to announce a fun new twist to Twisted WilderFest: Twisted Jr!
Twisted Jr. will showcase and make space for our incredibly skilled youngsters right here in our city. Children age 5 - 17 will have the opportunity to sell their creations to a crowd of around 4,500 attendees! Learn more at cityofgreen.org/TwistedWilderFest
