Westerville City Council meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month (not including summer recess).
Meetings are held in the temporary Council Chambers, located at the Justice Center, at 229 Huber Village Blvd., and also air live on WestervilleTV (www.Westerville.org/TV). Visit www.Westerville.org/Council to learn more.
CONTACT
us.
Find staff members listed by department at www.westerville.org/contactus to reach by email or phone. Reach out to the City Manager’s Office directly at CMO@westerville.org. You may reach all members of Westerville City Council at CityCouncil@westerville.org.
WESTERVILLE CITY COUNCIL
Pictured from left-right: Back Row: David Grimes, Jeff Washburn, Aaron Glasgow
Front Row: Megan Reamsnyder, Vice Chair; Michael Heyeck, Chair; Kenneth L. Wright, Mayor; and Coutanya Coombs, Ph.D, Vice Mayor.
CITY MANAGER MESSAGE FROM THE
Westerville is READY to capture great opportunities this year. “A state of readiness” was our message at this year’s State of the City, and the concept we’re pursuing in every public program and service delivered by the City in 2025 and beyond.
What does it mean to be ready? Ready for what?
Right now it means a Westerville that can continue to thrive amid a changing central Ohio. The local media calls Columbus (and the surrounding region) “Boomtown.” Predicted population surges, slower than expected job growth and housing challenges are at the heart of the matter. That’s why it’s important for Westerville to stay ready to evaluate what makes sense for our community, and how to grow reasonably and responsibly.
I urge you to visit www.Westerville.org/SOC to watch my full remarks about what “Ready” means for Westerville. Maintaining a strong local economy and consistent high-quality services for our residents while central Ohio evolves is our priority.
For example, an aspect of our readiness is happening now on the infrastructure project at the “East of Africa” Road site. This $30 million extension of infrastructure and roadways is expanding the center of commerce positioning Westerville to be ready for more investment and amenities to serve residents for decades to come. Read more on page 10 or www.Westerville.org/EOA.
@cityofwesterville
@tellwesterville
There are ways we work every day to preserve the things we love about Westerville. We do this with emphasis on quality services, availability and accessibility of jobs and modern-day amenities through careful, thoughtful planning.
I think you will find that to be true in the pages of this publication. Our commitment to our residents is unwavering, and I am excited about where our readiness will lead us, together.
Monica Dupee | City Manager
Monica Dupee City Manager
Find the full strategic plan at www.westerville.org/strategicplan.
STRATEGIC PRIORITIES WESTERVILLE
Westerville City Council and administration finalized a series of strategies that define our priorities for the future within the last two years. These ideas remain our “north star” as we manage public programs and services.
WHAT THE CITY PROVIDES
IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE
The Westerville Community Guide is published and mailed to your home six times a year. Read the City’s latest headlines and use the catalog to find classes, events and more hosted by Westerville Parks & Recreation. Never miss an issue at www.westerville.org/
WESTERVILLE
STATE OF THE CITY
www.westerville.org
March 20, 2025
Westerville City Manager Monica Dupee set intentions for 2025 that will help the City meet its priorities at the annual State of the City on March 20 at the Renaissance Westerville-Polaris Hotel. Her core message focused on the City’s state of readiness–being able to adapt to the ever-changing economic climate while preparing for a future-ready Westerville. To watch event remarks, visit www.Westerville.org/SOC.
The City of Westerville’s commitment to transparency starts at the online Westerville Transparency Hub, a portal for facts, figures and statistics of incoming and outgoing public data. View a full financial perspective at the Hub, which features dashboards for revenue and expenditures and much more.
The Hub also includes pertinent information pertaining to the following: Public Safety | Mayor’s Court | Utilities | Public Service | Parks & Recreation
www.westerville.org/transparency
*Westerville Division of Fire also serves Blendon Township.
COMPETITIVE BIDDING
$2.6 million +
In 2024, more than $2.6 million was saved through the City’s formal and informal competitive procurement efforts. This process requires bids and quotes from a number of service providers in order to determine the best price. Contracts and services are awarded to providers who meet the City’s “lowest and best” award criteria. Additionally, $670,000 in additional savings was achieved through the use of cooperative purchasing opportunities with other government entities.
INSURANCE
1.0% over past three years
By self-funding many lines of insurance, the City has saved money. For example, the employee health care plan experienced a 3% increase for 2024, a 1.0% decrease for 2023 and a 2.0% increase for 2022. This slight increase over the past three years is significantly less than the national trend for health care. These savings reflect a commitment to seeking reliable, cost-saving options while providing essential services to employees.
Honors & Awards
UPTOWN WESTERVILLE RECOGNIZED AS NATIONALLY CERTIFIED
MAIN STREET COMMUNITY
Westerville earned national recognition as a 2024 Main Street Community from the Ohio Main Street Program. The prestigious designation was bestowed upon Uptown Westerville, Inc., in recognition of preservation efforts and the revitalization of the City’s historic district.
FINANCE DEPARTMENT RECEIVES STATE AWARD
The City of Westerville Finance Department received the Ohio Auditor of State Award with Distinction in December 2024. The announcement was made Tuesday, Dec. 3 at the Westerville City Council Meeting at Westerville City Hall. The City of Westerville Finance Department also has received the Government Finance Officers Association Budget Award each of the last two years.
Grants & Donations
Many City departments pursue both state and federal grants for projects small and large.
$374,960 in grants received to help cover costs for public safety and sustainability programming.
$45,762 in donations toward public safety and Parks & Recreation programming.
The City of Westerville is among the few municipalities in the state of Ohio to own and maintain its own utilities, including water and electric service and distribution. See all your ultility rates and service information online at www.westerville.org
WESTERVILLE ELECTRIC DIVISION SERVICE
The Westerville Electric Division limited the residential rate increase to about 1.55% this year for customers who use about 965 kilowatts-perhour each month. Overall, Westerville customers get the advantage of reliable and personalized service at an affordable rate when compared to American Electric Power (AEP).
NEW UTILITY PORTAL
Improved navigation and access
The City is excited to announce the launch of a new Utility Customer Portal. In addition to viewing e-bills, usage data and payment history, the new portal improves customers’ experience and provides access to more information regarding residential and commercial utility usage. Customers can access the new portal using the same web address that was previously provided for the former portal
WATER QUALITY REPORT
Watch for your annual Drinking Water Consumer Confidence Report to view and understand the process behind Westerville’s water treatment and distribution system. The report includes statistics into the water treatment process, water quality data and source water information.
WATER TREATMENT AND DISTRIBUTION
The average residential customer (at 7 Ccf) saw a 2% increase resulting in a monthly water bill this year, an increase of approximately $0.50. Water rates are based on consumption to reflect the true cost of current service. Currently, the City is among the most affordable water providers in Franklin County.
READY FOR GROWTH: EAST OF AFRICA INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT
In March 2025, the City celebrated the newest chapter in its growth and development at the East of Africa Road Groundbreaking Ceremony behind the historic Sharp House. City Council Members, City Manager Monica Dupee and Assistant City Manager Jason Bechtold joined partners from the Westerville Industry and Commerce Corporation, Complete General Construction and CBRE: Global Commercial Real Estate Services to commemorate the milestone.
The East of Africa roadway and infrastructure project will result in an extension of the successful Westar business district that has created more than 10,000 jobs and serves as home to corporate headquarters including Vertiv, DHL Supply Chain (North America) and Lancaster Colony/T. Marzetti.
For more information and updates about East of Africa development plans, visit www.Westerville.org/Shovel-Ready-Sites .
Positions for City of Westerville Boards and Commissions will be available for appointments in 2026. If you are interested in public service, please see the application (due in October) at www.westerville.org/council.
DATES TO KNOW
Yard Waste Collection: Mondays
Refuse and Recycling Collection: Tuesdays
Please place yard waste, trash and recycling containers at the curb no earlier than 6 p.m. the night before collection. If collections fall on holidays, pick-up is delayed one day. Questions? Call the Public Service Department at (614) 901-6740.
INITIATE UTILITY SERVICE
To establish a utility billing account with the City of Westerville, call Utility Billing at (614) 901-6430 or visit 64 E. Walnut St. A deposit will be required for residential or commercial consumers who rent or lease the premises in which electric service is provided.
MANAGE, PAY UTILITY ACCOUNTS ONLINE
The City has an online utility portal to help registered customers manage and pay their accounts. Westerville utility users can now make a debit or credit payment by phone too; registration is not required for this service. Register at www.westerville.org/billpay.
REPORT A POWER OUTAGE
Call the Westerville Electric Division 24/7 if your power goes out. WED is known for quick, reliable service. Call (614) 901-6700 and follow the menu of options.
INCOME TAX
The Westerville Income Tax Division handles the collection, audit and enforcement of the 2% municipal income tax pursuant to the Westerville City Code. Extended hours for service are available closer to the income tax deadline. For assistance, call (614) 901-6430.
NON-EMERGENCY NUMBER
To report an accident or for non-emergency situations, call (614) 882-7444.
Use this number to:
• File a report
• Report suspicious persons, vehicles, or activity. Report a crime (not in progress).
• Report non-injury accidents
GET CONNECTED, STAY CONNECTED
Never miss a public event or meeting with the City’s event calendar. Find the information you need and add it to your personal Outlook/ iCalendar, Google or Yahoo calendar. Check it out at westerville.org/calendar . Catch live and on-demand meetings of City Council at www.westerville.org/tv
DOWNLOAD THE “TELL WESTERVILLE” MOBILE APP
This digital extension of the City’s customer service team allows users to submit service requests from anywhere and to learn about City news and events. The free app is available through your mobile application store (Google Play, Apple App Store). Just search “Tell Westerville” to download. Visit www.westerville.org/tellwesterville for more information.
STAY INFORMED!
Sign up online to get a weekly e-newsletter and have the latest news, information and special events delivered directly to your email inbox.
GET SOCIAL
Join our online communities and networks. You’ll get quick information and can interact with the City and your neighbors. Keep up with our other City accounts on X @WvilleElectric, @WestervillePD, @WestervilleFire, @WestervilleBiz and @WestervillePark.
MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS, KNOW YOUR CITY
Want a behind-the-scenes tour of the City? Join the Westerville Citizen’s Academy. Held every year in late summer and early fall, this free nine-week class is focused on interactive features, such as exploring equipment, facility tours, demonstrations and hands-on activities. Learn more and apply at www.westerville.org/wca.
GET INVOLVED
Each year, City volunteers give tens of thousands of hours helping their neighbors stay safe, experience City programs and keeping our natural resources healthy. Find the right volunteering opportunities for you at www.westerville.org/volunteer
To explore exciting career opportunities visit www.Westerville.org/WPDAcademy.
WPD POLICE ACADEMY
STRENGTHENS LAW ENFORCEMENT THROUGHOUT THE REGION
As the landscape of policing continues to change, officers must demonstrate adaptability, resilience and unwavering determination. The Westerville Division of Police Basic Peace Officer Training Academy (WPA) offers a local solution for certifying peace officers, providing comprehensive training tailored to the evolving demands of modern law enforcement.
Led by the experienced WPD staff and supported by personnel from local police departments and top law enforcement instructors, the WPA is dedicated to preparing officers to effectively serve their communities. Our academy emphasizes the importance of building trust with the public, upholding the law with honor, and maintaining an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Since 2023, the WPA has prepared 32 recruits to become certified peace officers. Cadets have represented communities throughout central Ohio, including Westerville, Hilliard, Delaware, Reynoldsburg, Gahanna, Plain City, Grandview Heights, as well as Genoa Township, Franklin County Metro Parks, and the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office.
In 2024, the Westerville Division of Police (WPD) added three new school resource officers (SROs) to serve K-12 students throughout the Westerville City School District. The three designated Neighborhood SROs establish ongoing positive relationships with students, teachers and school administrators while also having an intentional presence within neighborhoods surrounding the schools.
WPD’s SRO and Neighborhood SRO programs support the City’s goal of maintaining a safe and vibrant community.
Learn more about WPD and community relations efforts at www.Westerville.org/Police.
Alex Esparza Crime Prevention Specialist
Officer Brian Gavaghan
Congratulations to WPD Award Winners
The Westerville Division of Police (WPD) presented the 2024 Officer of the Year and Civilian of the Year awards to Officer Brian Gavaghan and Crime Prevention Specialist Alex Esparza. Esparza and Officer Gavaghan were nominated and chosen by their peers for providing the highest level of service for Westerville community members. Each year, the awards are given to individuals who have demonstrated excellent performance, productivity, responsibility, loyalty and honesty in fulfilling the Division’s mission.
FIRE STATION CREW’S SWIFT ACTION SAVES LIVES
The Westerville Division of Fire Station 111 Unit 1 was recognized for exemplary service at the OhioHealth Trauma Care Conference on Friday, Oct. 25 at the Hilton Columbus at Easton. The fire crew was honored for saving lives during a critical incident involving two vehicles.
Pictured left to right: Battalion Chief Gretchen Sutton, Firefighters/Medics Tuck Blackstone, Tim Bunyard, Nick Ganger and Karl Eash, Lt. James Lehtomaa, and Firefighters/Medics Chris Lovins, Cody Hamer and Josh Loney.
Fire & EMS Responses
9,462 Response time
4:57 minutes
Building Inspections
2,461
Smoke Detector Installations*
284
* WFD’s “You Call We’ll Install” program is free to the residents of Westerville who need assistance with a smoke detector in their home. Call (614) 901-6600.
RECREATION PARKS &
AN 'ACTIVE' APP
The City is excited to announce the launch of the new, official Westerville Parks and Recreation mobile application, which will soon be accessible in the Apple App Store and on Google Play. The “Westerville P&R” app will provide direct access to all program registration, facility rentals, as well as pass and event ticket purchases. The app will also make checking in for activities and/or pool visits more convenient.
The simple-to-navigate app includes the following features:
Simple Log-in: Log in once and remain signed in for future use.
Account Management: Update account information and manage passes in real-time.
Program Registration: Choose from hundreds of programs for all ages and skill levels.
Pass Purchasing and Renewal: Buy or renew annual, seasonal, monthly and day passes for recreation facilities.
Facility Reservations: Book shelters, ball fields, pools or rooms for your next event, party or practice.
Ticket Purchases: Purchase tickets to our theater performances and special events.
Notifications: Receive personalized alerts on programs, facilities, parks and special events or announcements.
Offers and Promotions: Enable notifications for exclusive offers, special events and Parks and Recreation news.
The Westerville P&R app is part of the City’s continued efforts to streamline the user experience for Parks and Recreation amenities. Visit www.Westerville.org/Parks stay up to date on all Westerville Parks and Recreation news and developments.
38,849
77,580
Follow the City's social media for the latest event information and early-bird offers.
PUMPKIN GLOW GREAT WESTERVILLE
Prepare for an enchanting transformation as Westerville's Heritage Park, located at 60 Cleveland Avenue, metamorphoses into a breathtaking autumn spectacle for the highly anticipated Great Westerville Pumpkin Glow. Envision a vibrant landscape adorned with a dazzling array of illuminated pumpkins, casting a warm and inviting glow across the park grounds. This family-friendly event promises an unforgettable experience filled with festive ambiance and captivating sights.
FUN FOR ALL AGES
This fun-filled event features interactive activities for all ages, including bumper cars, ax throwing, an inflatable corn maze and more.
FALL-INSPIRED CUISINE
A wide array of food trucks will be on site, featuring sweet and savory favorites, warm beverages and pumpkin-themed goodies.
GIANT GOURDS
Prepare for a stunning, gourd-geous display as skilled artists magically transform giant pumpkins through expert carving throughout the event.
NEW GLOW-THEMED MERCH
Commemorate your visit with Pumpkin Glow merchandise, including clothing, accessories and drinkware. New designs available!
October 16–19, 2025 | 6:30 - 10 p.m.
City Hall Project
City departments and divisions that previously held offices inside City Hall have been temporarily relocated. Temporary City Department Locations
In fall 2024, the City began the City Hall Improvement Project to renovate the City Hall campus to Uptown Westerville. The once-in-a-generation project is part of organizational changes to align City Manager Monica Dupee’s vision with City Council’s strategic priorities. When City Hall reopens, residents will have access to a fully centralized customer service experience where all encounters with the City can happen in one space. The project will also help significantly reduce the City’s footprint in Uptown, providing more opportunities for community engagement in the historic district.
310 W. MAIN ST.
City Manager’s Office
(City Manager, Assistant City Manager, Chief of Staff)
Community Affairs Division
Customer Service
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Division
Economic Development Division
Human Resources Department
Westerville City Council Clerk
*64 E. WALNUT ST.
Finance Department
*The Planning and Development Department and the Utility Billing Division will continue to be located at 64 E. Walnut throughout the project.
PUBLIC MEETINGS
Public meetings previously held in Council Chambers, including City Council, boards and commissions, are now held in Mayor’s Court at the Justice Center, located at 229 Huber Ridge Blvd.
REPAIRING HOMES, RESTORING HOPE
The City’s Home Repair Program is provided in partnership with the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC). The program launched mid 2024 and aims to provide support for home repairs that focus on safety, sustainability, energy efficiency, accessibility and urgent needs. Qualified homeowners can receive a grant for repairs, such as roofing and siding; concrete repair or replacement; furnace/heating systems; accessibility modifications, repairs or additions; sewer and disposal repair or replacement; minor electrical work and minor structural work.
QUALIFICATIONS
Applicants must own and reside in a singlefamily home in Westerville, Ohio, and have a total income at or below 100% of the Columbus area median income for families. The City may award a maximum total of $25,000 per applicant/ property, unless otherwise determined at the sole discretion of the City.
"I really appreciate the support of this grant program. We love our neighborhood and are glad that our home can continue to contribute in value and usefulness to our community for years to come because of this program! Thank you, City of Westerville, for taking on this initiative for families like us!"
- Satisfied Grant Recipient
Visit www.Westerville.org/HomeRepair to view eligibility information and learn how to apply.
BRIDGING THE GAP THROUGH WESTERVILLE HELPS
Launched in 2020, the Westerville Helps program provides assistance for individuals and families facing financial hardships. Westerville Helps houses three financial assistance programs, which provide access to Parks and Recreation services, utility bill assistance and support minor home improvement projects.
The Westerville Planning and Development Department manages the home improvement portion of the Westerville Helps program, and provides up to $5,000 in fully forgivable matching reimbursement for small-scale exterior home improvements for single family home owners. Since 2020, Westerville Helps has provided 23 households with more than $83,000 in home improvement reimbursements.
For more information on donating to Westerville Helps or to apply for assistance on visit www.Westerville.org/WestervilleHelps .
The City’s collective efforts led to the following successes in 2024:
PARTNERING TO PROVIDE EXEMPLARY SERVICE
The Westerville Public Service Department maintains infrastructure through the coordinated efforts of four divisions: Street Maintenance, Utilities, Environmental Maintenance and Fleet Maintenance. Key programs and services include Leaf Collection; Refuse and Yard Waste; Stormwater Management and Sustainability programs.
The Public Service Department partners with the Westerville Electric and Water Divisions, as well as external stakeholders, to support a wide array of sustainability initiatives, including the Community Energy Savings, Curbside Recycling, Battery and Bulb Recycling, Holiday Light Recycling and the Community Backyards water conservation programs. For more information about the Public Service Department, visit www.Westerville.org/Service.
WALKING THE WALK: WESTERVILLE SIDEWALK PROGRAM
The City will repair or replace deficient sidewalk panels at no direct cost to property owners. Hazardous panel locations are recorded by public complaint and addressed during the following construction season as part of each year’s Street Rehabilitation Project. Learn more at www.Westerville.org/Sidewalks.
2,884 tons
CURBSIDE RECYCLING
2,781 tons CURBSIDE YARD DEBRIS
140,580 lbs. DROP-OFF COMPOSTING
14,400 lbs. PUMPKINS DROPPED OFF FOR COMPOSTING
5,151 cubic yards
CURBSIDE LEAF COLLECTION
May and October 2024 Collection Results
More than 500 cars at both events
Shredded material: 14.62 tons
Pollutants kept out of the atmosphere: 877 lbs
Water saved: 102,340 gal
Landfill saved: 73 cubic yards
Trees saved: 249
Energy saved: 59,942 Kw
Helping to Shape Tomorrow’s Leaders
The City of Westerville and the Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce partnered to form the Westerville WorkWISE Collective, focusing on workforce, innovation, skills and education community resources and development. Since 2019, the Collective has studied our community's workforce needs and develops strategies to address those needs.
The WorkWISE Collective has expanded its membership and now includes additional members to comprehensively address the complex issue. Members include the Westerville Partnership, comprising the Westerville City School District (WCSD), Otterbein University and the Westerville Public Library; as well as businesses and workforce ecosystem partners and resource providers. The Collective meets bimonthly to enhance Westerville's talent ecosystem.
In 2024, WorkWISE promoted a teacher externship program between WCSD and local businesses including ABB, Inc., Lake Shore Cryotronics and Mid City Electric, which gave teachers hands-on experience to develop needed to explore job opportunities with top local employers.
WESTERVILLE ELECTRIC DIVISION PRE-APPRENTICE PROGRAM
SHREDDING DAY
Saturday, October 11, 2025
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Hoff Woods Park - parking lot off McCorkle near the soccer fields.
Westerville Electric Division’s pre-apprentice program provides opportunities for high school students to explore electric-related careers, including linework and electrical engineering, in real-world environments. WCSD students interested in the program should contact their school counselors to learn more.
