2023 City of Westerville Resident Guide

2023 Resident Guide

+ 2022 Annual Report and Financial Performance

www.westerville.org

Westerville City Council

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.

Find us on social media.

Pictured from left-right: Back Row: Coutanya Coombs, Ph.D.; Kenneth L. Wright, Vice Mayor; Dennis Blair; Megan Reamsnyder Front Row: Michael Heyeck, Chair; Diane Conley, Mayor; Craig Treneff, Vice Chair

@tellwesterville @WvilleElectric @WestervillePD @WestervilleFire @WestervillePark @WestervilleBiz

Download the “Tell Westerville” app.

Westerville City Council meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month (not including summer recess).

Meetings are held at Westerville City Hall (21 S. State St.) in Council Chambers and air live on WestervilleTV (www.westerville.org/tv). Learn more and contact Councilmembers at www.westerville.org/council.

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WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

On the cover: The Westerville Justice Center opened in 2022, with the project substantially complete in October. The $15 million project was approved by Westerville voters to accommodate WPD’s growth and improve outdated facilities.

Message from the

CITY MANAGER Growth is happening all around us. That may very well be the theme for 2023 and the next few years as Central Ohio becomes home to unprecedented economic investment and new residents.

Westerville is responding in its characteristic way of thoughtful planning and strategic and intentional decision-making, always relying on our established community plans. The City has always grown reasonably and responsibly, and of course cannot accommodate the growth we’re seeing planned in neighboring communities (like Sunbury and New Albany, among the fastestgrowing cities in the mid-Ohio region right now).

Where we fit in has yet to be determined, but we are focused on protecting what we love while remaining open to opportunities that make sense for Westerville. One tradition that will never go away is our commitment to what we call “exemplary” customer service. For us, that means providing government services that are effective, efficient and convenient at the highest quality possible.

Monica Irelan City Manager

In the future, we’ll be making improvements to our model, considering new standards of service that residents and businesses want to deliver. Consider for example one-stop shopping at the City of Westerville. Pay your utility bill, get a Community Center pass or apply for a permit at one single location. It’s in the works. We are imaging new City Hall-based centralized customer engagement options that meet you where you are: in-person, online or via your smartphone. We plan to announce more on this initiative later this year.

Meanwhile, I encourage you to read through the pages of this report to see for yourself the service level we are meeting in Westerville. And, I invite you to watch the State of the City address from March (see page 5) to learn more about how we see growth impacting Westerville.

Monica Irelan City Manager

WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

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Westerville Strategic Priorities 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.

WESTERVILLE PROVIDES...

MOBILITY OPTIONS RESPONSIBLE FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT A “CITY WITHIN A PARK” AND EXCELLENT MUNICIPAL SERVICES

ADVOCACY IN WESTERVILLE

C O M M U N I T Y

...WITH A FOCUS ON

...IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE

COPS AND KIDS DAY

Events Amplify Communities

"ADVANCE WESTERVILLE"

Celebrates 30 Years

G U I D E

|

Plan Launching

M A Y / J U N E

2 0 2 3

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP

Program Registration Dates

www.westerville.org

Registration Information See page 68.

MAY S M T W R F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1 1 12 1 3 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

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/parks.

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WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

WE ST E RV I L L E The premier event of the year, the 2023 State of the City, was delivered to a crowd of 200 people at the Renaissance Westerville. City Manager Monica Irelan talked about Central Ohio’s growth and Westerville’s intentionality in seeking opportunities ahead. Watch her full remarks at www.westerville.org/soc.

WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

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Financial Performance 2022 GENERAL FUND RECEIPTS

OPERATING EXPENDITURES

Municipal Income Taxes Property Taxes Intergovernmental Revenue Charges for Services Fees, Licenses & Permits Fines & Forfeitures Interest & Fiscal Charges Miscellaneous

0.5%

0.5%

$40,013,463 4,590,794 4,099,588 55,866 712,149 224,626 529,581 309,898

$50,535,965

Security of Persons & Property Public Health Basic Utility Services Community Development General Government

18,016,436 52,655 754,615 4,466,361 13,022,106

$36,312,173

36% Security of Persons & Property

% % 1 1 1 %

8%

Municipal Income Taxes Property Taxes

9%

Intergovernmental Revenue

RECEIPTS

OPERATING EXPENDITURES

Fees, Licenses & Permits Fines & Forfeitures

Basic Utility Services Community Development General Government

12% 2% 49%

Charges for Services

79%

Public Health

1%

Interest & Fiscal Charges Miscellaneous

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WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

*Represents 2022 financial management strategy for pandemic recovery including accessible monies in the general fund in anticipation of reduced income tax receipts and increased refunds. Some capital improvement projects were deferred to future years.

FRANKLIN COUNTY

DELAWARE COUNTY

Figures are based on one dollar

Figures are based on one dollar

Westerville Public Library $0.1836

Westerville Public Library

Franklin County

$0.0735

Westerville City Schools

$0.0057

City of Westerville

$0.0183

Delaware County

$0.0204

Westerville City Schools

$0.0152

Columbus State

City of Westerville

$0.0105

Delaware Mental Health

$0.1605 $0.6319

City Council

594

Law Administration

835

Buildings and Grounds Maintenance Emergency Communications Management Information Systems Finance-Admin/ Utilities/Tax Public Service/ Street Maintenance

$0.7020

323

Mayor’s Court

City Spending by

FUNCTION

1,058

2,921

3,996

Planning & Development

4,466

Fire* in 000’s

Public Safety Mayor’s Court Utilities Public Service Parks & Recreation

2,825

5,060

Police

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.

A full financial perspective can be viewed at the Hub, with dashboards for revenue and expenditures and much more.

Find more information on the Hub, including:

2,267

Administration

Parks & Recreation

Delaware County Park Preservation

$0.1784

www.westerville.org/transparency 11,071 15,272 16,386 *Westerville Division of Fire also serves Blendon Township.

WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

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Saving Public Dollars COMPETITIVE BIDDING

$1.8 million + In 2022, more than $1.8 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, $425,000 in additional savings was achieved through the use of cooperative purchasing opportunities with other government entities.

INSURANCE INSURANCE

1.7% over three years

By self-funding many lines of insurance, the City has saved money. For example, the employee health care plan experienced a 2.0% increase for 2022, 0% increase for 2021 and a 3% for 2020. This 1.7% 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.

Awards & Honors

REIMBURSEMENTS The City has a variety of programs to collect reimbursements for the utilization of public resources. The use of police cruisers is one example where costs are recovered when reserved for private events requiring special duty police coverage. In 2022, the Westerville Division of Police (WPD) was reimbursed $4,545 for the rental and utilization of cruisers required to close roads, direct traffic or otherwise cover a private special event. For their work with other public safety agencies on a variety of specialized, tactical task forces, WPD was reimbursed more than $30,000.

GRANTS & DONATIONS Many City departments pursue both state and federal grants for projects small and large.

$186,078 in grants received to help cover costs for public safety and sustainability programming. $71,177 in donations toward public safety and Parks & Recreation programming.

$

AUDITOR OF STATE AWARD WITH DISTINCTION The City of Westerville again earned the Auditor of State Award with Distinction for excellent financial record keeping and reporting. The award is the highest award offered by the Auditor of State’s office, presented to local governments and school districts upon the completion of a financial audit. Entities that receive the award meet certain criteria of a “clean” audit report.

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The Auditor of State’s office, one of five independently elected offices in Ohio, is responsible for auditing more than 5,600 state and local government agencies. The office provides financial services to local governments, investigates and prevents fraud in public agencies and promotes transparency in government. For more information, visit https://www.ohioauditor.gov.

WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

Pickerington Columbus*

$26.28 WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE $32.29

Huber Ridge

$68.52

Gahanna*

$48.59

Reynoldsburg*

$47.12

Upper Arlington*

$46.52

Hilliard*

$46.29

Grove City*

$44.19

Dublin*

$44.26

Worthington*

$42.51

New Albany*

$41.98

Delaware County

$38.31

Westerville

$35.00

Delaware

$32.58

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* Columbus Water

Water lity ReportQua 2022

The average residential customer (at 7 Ccf) saw a 2% increase this year, resulting in a monthly increase of approximately $0.70. 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.

This annual 2022 about report provides summary your drinking it is treated, water; where information from what it comes

lity QuaRESID Water 2022 ENTIAL 2022 ReportAVERA GE WATER BILL

it contains and from, how Environmental from how it compares Protection Agency’s summary information quality standards. provides from, how (EPA) drinking to the report(PER MONTH where it comes This annual water drinking water; how) it compares to the Throughout and 2022 about your Westerville water the it contains residents (EPA) drinking for more than year, samples were collected it is treated, what at 312 W. Main rates in Agency’s enjoy some of Protection Plant, located and analyzed the sample 100 different contamina Environmental compareCentral Ohio. See how our the lowest water of treating 7.5 Water Treatment results showed nts.

Westerville The Westerville The Westerville to other communiti day and is capable and the ones quality standards. no detectableThe majority of rates Water Treatment andinanalyzed process is used 24 hours per that did are presented contaminants, Central St., operates were collected es majority ofOhio. St., operates of water daily. A multi-step drinking water Plant, located 24 year, samples The in the following meet million gallons hours per day and is capable at 312 W. MainThroughout the We have a million gallons contaminants. contaminants, tables. water to effectively different current, unconditio of water daily. of treating 7.5for more than 100Huber Ridge health. operate our to treat the to treat the source A multi-step tables. nal Ohio EPA showed no detectable water system. source water protect the public’s process is usedthe sample results Gahanna* the following in$68.52 license to to effectively (ferric standards and standards and meet drinking that did are presented $48.59 of a coagulant protect the public’s to the addition with water and the ones Reynoldsbu with health. softened rg* begins Ohio EPA license water is then The process The process unconditional $47.12 Upper Arlington* the water. The the minerals begins with We have a current, the chloride) to clarify and caustic soda to remove chloride) to $46.52 clarify the water. addition of a coagulant lime our water system. addition of carbon Hilliard* the addition of (ferric operate the addition The water followed by the is filtered $46.29 is of water then lime softened with and caustic Grove City* softening, the calcium and magnesium, calcium and soda to remove activated the pH. After magnesium, $44.19 the minerals dioxide to adjust filters and then through granular followed by dioxide to adjust Dublin* with sodium the addition sand the pH. After $44.26 is disinfected of carbon through rapid through rapid Worthingto softening, process Next, the water n* filters. treatment sand the of filters $42.51 carbon (GAC) and then throughthe water is filtered carbon (GAC) The final steps New Albany* control and filters. Next, granular activated hypochlorite (chlorine).of phosphate for corrosion as-needed the hypochlorite $41.98 Delaware County (chlorine). The water is disinfected with On an involve the addition tooth decay. sodium final steps involve the can be $38.31 prevention of addition permanganate Westerville of phosphate of the treatment process fluoride for the fluoride for the for corrosion carbon and potassium $35.00 prevention of control and basis, activated Delaware basis, activated tooth decay. and odor control. $32.58 On an as-needed in an added for taste added for taste carbon and potassium permangan Columbus* initially stored and odor control. $32.29 ate can be the water is before being Pickeringto n Following treatment, the water plant storage tanks Following treatment, $26.28 clearwell at and elevated underground the water underground is initially stored distribution systememergency, the Water Plant clearwell at pumped to the of an in an pumped to the the In the event red generator. * Columbus distribution systemwater plant before for your use. a diesel-powe Water being for your use. and elevated to operate using In the event storage tanks can continue of can continue to operate using an emergency, the Water Plant a diesel-pow AND ered generator.

How is

MY WATER

Source Wate

r AND ITS Vuln

TREATED?

Lead Water

erability

How is

TED? MY WATER TREA

Drinking

Source Wate

r

Vulnerability

NTIAL 2022 RESIDE BILL AVERAGE WATER (PER MONTH

)

the lowest water enjoy some of rates Westerville residents See how our Westerville Ohio. rates in Central communities in Central Ohio. compare to other $68.52

Huber Ridge

$48.59

Gahanna* g* Reynoldsbur

$47.12 $46.52

Upper Arlington* Hilliard*

$46.29 $44.19

Grove City*

$44.26

Dublin* * Worthington

$42.51 $41.98

New Albany* Delaware County Westerville

$38.31 $35.00 $32.58

Delaware

$32.29

Columbus*

$26.28

Pickerington

* Columbus

Water

$198*

the aquifer are Alum Creek and on. a result, both contaminati to y crossings. As a high susceptibilit s in classified as having minimize contaminant steps to help source water establishing a The City is taking local Measures include ville.org/water), source water. program and (available at www.wester management protection plan a storm-water by the Friends zoning regulations, of a water quality action plan City. Through ion (FACT) and the the implementat and disposal and Tributaries n in the use of Alum Creek and your consideratio our water supply. Detailed these efforts can all help protect Water Source Assessment of chemicals we in the Drinking or by calling information is provided the Water Plant, available at Report that is (614) 901-6770.

FREE BATTERY, LIGHT BULB AND HOLIDAY LIGHT RECYCLING

$132.61

WATER TREATMENT AND DISTRIBUTION If present, elevated levels problems, of lead can especially cause ITS serious health for pregnant AND children. Lead women and and componen in drinking water is primarily young is surface ts associated of drinking water from materials plumbing. Westerville with service water supply, the primaryis source lines and responsible Westerville’s drinking home that To augment this water, for Aquifer providing Alum but Creek.

Valley high-qualit cannot Alum Creek from water used in plumbingwells in thecontrol y the variety Treatment of materialsto has three componen sitting Westerville Water City for theWhen several hours, your water water to ts. susceptible has been also provide you leadcan nature are exposure theirminimize by can land, and by waters the flushing potential surrounding Surface minutes your on the Plant.before for for 30 secondsmonitored. activities tap using from on water concerned for treated drinkingand constantly to two contaminati about lead in your water, or cooking. If you are to must be properly your therefore water tested. susceptible may A list of laboratorieyou also wish of Ohio to test to have water s is protective certified for lead of ground andinthin may beshallow source the state ddagw Our or by its found atdepth calling www.epa.o Alum Creek on due (614)to644-2752. drinking area aroundhio.gov/ contaminati water, testing Land uses in the Information sources such on lead in clay layer.methods, and contamination minimize natural exposure tanks, of potential steps you can is available d storage a number Hotlineinclude take to from the undergroun at 1-800-426 leaking Safe Drinking landfills, wells, -4791 airports, or www.epa.g shops, Water as oil and gas icals and road automotive repair ov/safewat er/lead.

The gas Citystations, areas, pharmaceut is in the process pesticide storage of documentin saltofand construction g the material for all water service lines.

ECO-SMART CHOICE ENERGY-SAVINGS PROGRAM

AEP

Lead AND Drink Water

ing

health can cause serious young levels of lead women and If present, elevated for pregnant materials is primarily from problems, especially in drinking water service lines and home children. Lead associated with for providing high-quality and components is responsible variety of materials plumbing. Westerville control the but cannot water has been . When your drinking water, for components the potential used in plumbing hours, you can minimize two seconds to sitting for several flushing your tap for 30 If you are by drinking or cooking. to have lead exposure wish using water for water, you may in the state minutes before lead in your concerned about A list of laboratories certified io.gov/ your water tested. lead may be found at www.epa.oh on lead in for of Ohio to test 644-2752. Information can take to calling (614) and steps you ddagw or by Water testing methods, the Safe Drinking /lead. drinking water, is available from v/safewater minimize exposure 791 or www.epa.go Hotline at 1-800-426-4 the material documenting the process of lines.

The City is in for all water service of construction

(2013)

INFORMATION

crossings. As a result, both classified as Alum Creek and the aquifer having a high susceptibil are ity to contamina The City is tion. taking steps to help source water.

Measures include minimize contaminan ts in protection plan establishing (available at a source water www.westerville.org/w zoning regulations , a storm-wate ater), local the implementa r manageme tion of a water nt program of Alum Creek and quality action plan by the Friends and Tributaries these efforts (FACT) and and your considerati the City. Through of chemicals on in the use we can all help and disposal protect our water information is provided in the supply. Detailed Drinking Water Report that is available Source Assessmen at the Water (614) 901-6770. t Plant, or by calling

RUSH-HOUR REWARDS REBATE PROGRAM

*Effective June 2023.

Based on 1,000 kWh per month.

WESTERVILLE

Westerville Monthly BillOHIO (Projected 2020) ELECTRIC AEP Monthly Bill (Projected 2020)

$0 $50

information, Council, website For additional Westerville City from the City’s State Street. also obtain information City Hall, 21 South lle.org. You may Chambers at Richard.Lorenz@westervi at (614) 901-6770,

$100

in Council month at 7 p.m.

N Tuesday of each first and third INFORMATIO Richard Lorenz ADDITIONALwhich governs the water system, meets on the contact Westerville Water Utility Manager ille.org. www.westerv

City of Westervill

City of Westerville

Westerville City Council, which governs the Chambers at water system, City Hall, 21 meets on the South State first and third Street. For additional at (614) 901-6770, Tuesday of each Richard.Lorenz@weste information, month at 7 p.m. contact Westerville in Council rville.org. You Water Utility may also obtain Manager Richard information from (service year) Lorenz the City’s website www.westerville.org. | May 2023 Water Division

e Water Division

| May 2023

(service year)

2022

2022

the than others in in drinking water contaminants cancer undergoing vulnerable to or as persons with may be more individuals such people with HIV/AIDS Some people Immuno-compromised organ transplants, particularly at risk from general public. be have undergone care and infants can y, people who from their health some elderly chemotherap drinking water lessen the system disorders, seek advice about on appropriate means to other immune the people should guidelines available from infections. These for Disease Control microbial contaminants are providers. EPA/Centers ium and other 791).

by Cryptosporid (1-800-426-4 risk of infection Water Hotline EPA’s Safe Drinking

$150

CONSUMER

CONFIDENCE

REPORT

ER

DRINKING WAT

ER WAT ADDIT IONAL KING DRIN REPORT MATIO NCEINFOR N CONSUMER CONFIDE

Some people may be more vulnerable to general public. contaminants Immuno-com in drinking water promised individuals chemothera py, people who than others such as persons in the have other immune system disorders, undergone organ transplants, with cancer undergoing infections. These some elderly people with and infants people should providers. EPA/Center can be particularly HIV/AIDS or seek advice about drinking at risk from s for Disease risk of infection water from their Control guidelines

by Cryptospori health care on appropriate EPA’s Safe Drinking dium and other means to lessen microbial Water Hotline the (1-800-426-4791). contaminants are available from the

Special Healt

$200

Westerville’s primary source water from of drinking Alum Creek. water is surface To augment City has three this water supply, wells in the can also provide Alum Creek the Valley Aquifer water to the Plant. Surface that Westerville Water Treatment waters by their contamination nature are from activities susceptible therefore must to on the surroundin be properly g land, and treated and constantly monitored.

Our source of ground water contamination due to its shallow is also susceptible natural clay to depth and thin layer. protective include a number Land uses in the area around of potential as oil and gas contamination Alum Creek wells, leaking sources such gas stations, underground automotive storage tanks, repair shops, salt and pesticide airports, storage areas, pharmaceuticals landfills, and road

POWERUP RESIDENTIAL CHARGING AND REBATE PROGRAM

Whether you’re a new electric vehicle (EV) owner or interested in saving time, money and lessening environmental impacts through energy efficiency, WED has a program for you. Find full details on residential and commercial energy and cost-saving programs at www.westerville.org/electric.

WED ENERGY AND COST-SAVING PROGRAMS This spring, AEP Ohio announced rate increases taking effect June 2023. This increase will not impact Westerville customers. Learn more at www.westerville.org.

The Westerville Electric Division limited the residential rate increase to about 1.55% this year for customers who use about 1,000 kilowatts-per-hour each month.

Overall, Westerville customers get the advantage of reliable and personalized service at an affordable rate when compared to American Electric Power (AEP).

WESTERVILLE ELECTRIC DIVISION SERVICE

h

INFORMATION

th

Special Heal

n a possible contaminatio connection between the source of into the ction is a physical piping. If the pressure of A cross-conne water may backflowwater line water system by contaminated and the drinking water system pressure, system caused public water the situation. drops in the is greater than cause a backflow system. Pressure fighting can also drinking water required to failures and fire buildings are breaks, pump and most commercial the public water system irrigation systems end user. device protects This backflow system from the Homes with underground prevention device. back into the public the have a backflow contaminated water flowing annually by to be tested state results from any potentially the the a copy of required by the d tester, with devices are is available on Backflow preventionmust be done by an Ohio-certifie Additional information by the tester. owner. The testing the Water Division er. submitted to ville.org/wat www.wester City website:

See all your ultility rates and service information online at www.westerville.org.

Your annual Drinking Water Consumer Confidence Report (included in your April utility bill) helps you 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.

A cross-conn ection and the drinking is a physical connection between a possible is greater than water system piping. source of contaminat If the pressure the water system drinking water of the source ion system. Pressure pressure, contaminat of contaminat breaks, pump ed water may ion drops in the failures and backflow into public water fire fighting the system caused can also cause a backflow situation. by water line Homes with underground irrigation have a backflow prevention device. systems and most commercial from any potentially This backflow buildings are contaminate device protects required to d water flowing the public water Backflow prevention back into the system public system devices are from the end owner. The required by user. testing must the state to be done submitted to be tested annually the Water Division by an Ohio-certified by the City website: tester, with by the tester. a copy of the www.weste Additional information rville.org/w results ater. is available on the

NECTIONS CROSS CONPREVENTION n source of contaminatio BACKFLOW &

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.

CROSS CON BACKFLOW NECTIONS & PREVENTION

Public Utilities

AVAILABLE NOW

WATER QUALITY REPORT

Economic Development in Westerville

THREE KEY MILESTONES 1999 941 ACRES

2014 62 ACRES

2023 88 ACRES 10

WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Westerville annexes 941 acres comprising the area known as Westar. More than 10,000 jobs have been created in the 20+ years since its development, along with more than $11 million in income tax to fund public programs and services.

Westerville acquires 62 undeveloped acres in the “Altair” development, rebranding the site as “Westar Place.” The area is now home to the North American headquarters of DHL Supply Chain, the corporate headquarters of Vertiv, Lancaster Colony and Central Ohio Primary Care Physicians.

The Westerville Industry and Commerce Corporation (WICC) purchases 88 acres east of Africa Road for commercial use and job growth. The undeveloped land is expected to generate continued investment in Westerville with additional community amenities.

TOP 10 EMPLOYERS* 1

JP Morgan Chase Bank

2

Mount Carmel Health Systems

3

DHL Supply Chain

4

Westerville City Schools

5

Central Ohio Primary Care Physicians

6

T. Marzetti Co.

7

City of Westerville

8

Vertiv Corp.

9

OhioHealth

10

Bank of America

* in 2022 Income tax payments to the City of Westerville

Recent Headlines

WESTERVILLE ATTRACTS NEW CORPORATE PARTNERS VERTIV

WESTERN ALLIANCE BANK

Vertiv is a global leader in designing, building and servicing critical infrastructure for data centers and other specific business requirements and needs. Among its products and services are critical power solutions, thermal management solutions, racks and enclosures and other management and service programs.

Offices in Westerville will represent the bank’s “tech hub,” supporting rapidly growing products and business segments and the company’s IT division is establishing a workforce in Westerville to enable acquisition and retention of world-class data analytics, cyber security, software development, finance and IT talent.

expanded its presence in Westerville this year, relocating its corporate headquarters from Columbus. The company will occupy a third building west of Westar Place along Cleveland Avenue, near its two existing buildings, bringing more than 350 new jobs to this side of town as it aligns its corporate properties. More than 21,000 employees work for Vertiv worldwide; approximately 700 will operate out of Westerville, including many of its corporate leadership positions.

ADVANCE WESTERVILLE

one of the country’s top-performing banks with more than $60 billion in assets, announced its expansion into Westerville in February, investing $2.2 million and creating 150 new jobs. Western Alliance currently has 3,500 fulltime employees and is adding new positions for analysts, engineers, developers, network operators, management, finance specialists and others as it grows in the Central Ohio region.

Keep up to date with major economic development announcements online at business.westerville.org or via Twitter at @westervillebiz.

Westerville’s Economic Development team has kicked off an update to their strategic plan, called “Advance Westerville.” The plan will focus on stakeholder engagement, benchmarking communities for comparative analyses and other industry research to develop a future-ready economic development strategy. Look for input opportunities online at business.westerville.org business.westerville.org..

WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

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New Residents 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.

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www.westerville.org | City of Westerville

facebook.com/cityofwesterville

@cityofwesterville

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.

linkedin.com/company/city-of-westerville

@tellwesterville

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 Twitter @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.

SERVE YOUR COMMUNITY Positions for City of Westerville Boards and Commissions will be available for appointments in 2024.

If you are interested in public service, please see the application (due in October) at www.westerville.org/bc.

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. www.westerville.org | City of Westerville

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New Justice Center

Transforms Training

The Westerville Justice Center was dedicated to the residents of Westerville on September 10, 2022.

Thanks to our residents, the Westerville Division of Police (WPD) is now fully operational in this new facility. The Justice Center provides WPD officers expanded access to training and technology. WPD also has the ability to collaborate and train with other law enforcement agencies and will soon host the first-ever Westerville Peace Officer Academy. Find full details and more information on the Justice Center at www.westerville.org/police.

Simulator Training

A video-based Simulator puts officers in real scenarios that test and train for decision-making and accuracy.

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WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

Firearms Ranges

A new range provides adequate space and equipment for firearms safety training and other versatile tactical training.

CALLS FOR SERVICE 34,880* *Includes both calls for service and officer-initiated activity. Previously reported only calls for service.

! !

!

!

!

Traffic Complaint

1,444

Officer Anthony P. Morelli Defensive Tactics Training Room

Officer Eric J. Joering Firearms Training Facility

$

983

Theft

1,166 Burglar Alarm

!

!!

1,106

Disturbance

Honoring our Heroes This year marked five years since the line-of-duty deaths of Officer Anthony P. Morelli and Officer Eric Joering. On February 10, 2023, the Westerville Division of Police officially dedicated the Officer Eric J. Joering Firearms Training Facility and the Officer Anthony P. Morelli Defensive Tactics Training Room at the WPD Justice Center. #WestervilleStrong.

Non-Injury: 795 Hit-Skip: 192 injury: 99

1,086 Property Damage

835

Suspicious Person

15

WFD EARNS GRANT FOR

NEW “MOBILE” AMBULANCE

Thanks to a generous grant from Firehouse Subs Foundation, WFD now has a Polaris Ranger Crew side-by-side ATV and equipment for use for special events. The vehicle can transport up to four medics and patients through larger community crowds in lieu of an ambulance/medic truck. Lt. Nick Jones coordinated the grant for WFD. The vehicle is expected to be delivered to WFD this summer.

EMS Responses

6,388

Fire Responses

1,992

Response time

5:05 minutes

Building Inspections

2,280

Smoke Detector Installations*

54

* 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) 901-6606.

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WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

of WESTERVILLE

SAFETY INFORMATION

Westerville’s 4th of July celebration and fireworks are more popular than ever, since the move to the Westerville Sports Complex is attracting significantly larger regional crowds. WFD wants everyone to have a safe and fun experience, so watch for extra signage and some parking and space restrictions this year. Know before you go with full details at www.westerville.org.

DO Take a photo of your child(ren) the night of the fireworks. This will aid public safety if they become lost.

Look for a Lost and Found table or staff member with a radio.

Bring a blanket, chairs or picnic supplies.

Bring a trash bag(s). Please be considerate and take your trash to a canister at the field or take it home with you for curbside collection.

Consult www.westerville.org for information and maps on parking.

DON’T Bring your own fireworks.

Public safety officers will be on-site and monitoring crowds as well.

Stake an umbrella or tent in the ground. There are underground sprinklers that could be damaged.

Bring or consume alcohol or illegal substances.

Block sidewalks or trails with chairs, blankets, bikes, etc.

Park on private property or non-parking structures like grass/wetlands at the Westerville Community Center.

THE

BY NUMBERS 39,870 participants

enrolled in programs during the year while attendance numbers climbed to 117,376 (includes drop-in programs)

55 + 47,943 participants

Westerville Community Center older adult programming reached more than 47,943 participants and offered 509 FREE programs

316,500

“Tell Westerville” About the

ADVENTURE PARK Westerville Parks & Recreation is seeking ideas and input for the design and development phase of the new “adventure” park to be integrated into the environment and wooded ravines just east of Vesper Way on the City’s northwest side. Previously referred to as the “Edge” adventure park, this park will be focused on active recreation, potentially blending pursuits such as hiking, climbing and gliding into its.

Here’s how to be heard: 1. View the park site analysis and initial development plans online at parks.westerville.org.

2. Tell us at the Community Center. Staff will be conducting in-person surveying throughout the spring.

3. Write us! Email parksandrec@westerville.org.

attendees

The Westerville Community Center hosted 316,500 total attendees

SHRED-IT DAYS

7,504

total passes (active)

81,698

FALL DATE: Saturday, October 14, 2023 LOCATION: Hoff Woods Park - parking lot off McCorkle near the soccer fields (same as previous years) TIME: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

visits

Highlands Park Aquatic Center

WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

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Expands in 2023 Did you go to the “Glow” last October? Westerville’s signature autumn event enjoyed its most attendees ever over a five-night stretch. And, even more fun is in store for this fall! Mark your calendar now!

N E W! PUMPKIN GLOW TRAIL

N E W!

All of Heritage Park will be used for the event in 2023, offering more space to stretch out and explore. The trail will pick-up in new locations, also spreading out for more to enjoy.

Special exhibits and not-so-scary features will be dotted throughout the park. The biggest gourds we can find will be on display, and we’ll be adding new features every year.

N E W! FUN AND GAMES

N E W! FOOD AND MUSIC

More rides and attractions? You got it. Watch for ax-throwing and pumpkin riding to return, along with other family-friendly and fun games and attractions.

Make it a night by planning dinner, snacks and extra entertainment at the event. New in 2023, we’ll be introducing expanded entertainment, more food trucks and carts and various themed “pumpkin” offerings.

October 19-22, 2023 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.

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WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

EXHIBITS

WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

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Introducing Westerville Equity Lens Strategy (WELS) The City of Westerville is committed to making strides in its diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. Most recently, these efforts have focused on the building of a strategic and functional DEI framework: the Westerville Equity Lens Strategy (WELS).

As a Framework, WELS defines our core beliefs in order to lead with intention and support programs and organizations that promote diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB). It also helps the City, as an employer, create a thought-leading place of employment on DEIB principles that can be shared and replicated in Westerville-area businesses.

WELS also challenges us to assure we continue leading with intention, continually evolving DEIB into our administrative policy and decision making. These efforts are both internal and external, and can be enacted in the following public functions: ● Procurement ● Legislation ● Business Development ● Hiring ● Planning and Zoning ● Community Programs and Events

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WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

THE “WHY” OF WELS: “To serve and empower all people, both in our organization and the community at-large and ensure that service is accessible, responsive and inclusive for a thriving, sustainable and connected Westerville.”

New Leadership in

DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION The City of Westerville has a tradition of leadership in diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, both internally for staff development and externally for community support. For more than 13 years, Westerville has developed both policies and law to support these efforts. For more information, email DEI@westerville.org.

In February, JR Fourqurean moved to the City Manager’s Office to serve in the role of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Director for the City of Westerville.

As a 12-year employee with the City, JR served in roles as Utility Billing Supervisor and most recently as Recreation Administrator in the Westerville Parks & Recreation Department. He managed “Westerville Helps,” a financial assistance program for utility services and facility access. At Parks & Recreation, Fourqurean influenced internal and external programs that promote diversity and inclusion.

2023

Diversity Framework (WELS)

2022

Global Fluency Professional Develop. and Training (2021-2022)

2021

First DEI Director Appointed DEI Department Established Source of Income in Housing Ordinance

2020

Intake/Investigation Process Agreement: Columbus

2019

Ethnic Non-Intimidation Ordinance Public Input Sessions Business, Faith-Based, General Public Westerville City Council Resolution of Principles

Westerville City Manager Monica Irelan formed the DEI division of the City Manager’s Office in 2021. Westerville’s DEI office is one of the few at the local government level to exclusively focus on diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging within communities. For more information on the initiative, or to contact JR, visit www.westerville.org/DEI.

Non-Discrimination Actions and Ordinance EEO and Anti-Harassment Personnel Code Updates Procurement/Contracting Provisions Update EEO Personnel Code Update

2018

Diversity Awareness Plan

2010

DEI Staff Training Development

21

PLANNING HOME PROJECTS?

VISIT THE ONLINE PERMIT APPLICATION PORTAL Launched in 2022, the Westerville Permit Portal provides online options for applying for and paying for some residential and commercial permits. Portal users receive automatic emails as their application progresses through the approval process, notifying them of the status and any outstanding needs that may impact the timeliness of their approval.

85%

of the zoning certificate applications received were submitted through the new online portal.

Residential applications available through the portal include driveway extension, fence, patio, POD/dumpster, shed/ accessory building (zoning certificates); AC replacement, electric and gas AC/furnace replacements and more.

Commercial applications include multi-family HVAC replacement, water heater replacement, as well as sidewalk and drive approach. More applications will be added in the near future.

SANITARY SEWER SYSTEM

INSPECTIONS PLACE FOCUS ON INFRASTRUCTURE Westerville contracts wastewater treatment to the City of Columbus and Delaware County. However, the work of monitoring, inspecting and maintaining the City’s more than 160 miles of sanitary sewer lines falls to the Public Service Department.

In 2022, the City initiated a program to inspect each segment of this important infrastructure and ensure it is in good working order. This project, conducted by RedZone Robotics, is currently underway and expected to be completed within 18 months.

For more information about wastewater management in Westerville, visit www.westerville.org/service.

KEEPING IT GREEN!

Prefer to handle business in person? Stop by the customer service window at 64 E. Walnut St. between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday or call (614) 901-6650.

Learn more about the portal and find links to get started at www.westerville.org/forms.

WALKING THE WALK: WESTERVILLE SIDEWALK PROGRAM

3,108

CURBSIDE RECYCLING

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WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

CURBSIDE YARD DEBRIS

5,853 cubic yards

CURBSIDE LEAF COLLECTION

tons

116,000 lbs.

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.

Learn more at www.westerville.org/sidewalks.

3,230 tons

42,000 lbs.

127,645 lbs.

PUMPKINS DROPPED OFF FOR COMPOSTING DROP-OFF COMPOSTING

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE

THE

BY NUMBERS

WēConnect

The WeConnect data center was born in 2010, a project using public infrastructure to pair fiber to a data center as an economic development strategy. WeConnect ended up being the first municipal data center in the U.S., a method to help Westerville attract new-generation businesses and investment as well as serve our existing business to do what we call THRIVE LOCALLY AND COMPETE GLOBALLY.

WESTERVILLE + HILLIARD DEVELOP FIBER PARTNERSHIP

The latest major innovation we’ve developed by WeConnect actually jumps the boundaries of the City by about 18.5 miles. Our friends at the City of Hilliard recognized our innovation and a way to connect our fiber networks to expand WeConnect directly to another municipality. Hilliard is the third-fastest growing city in the mid-Ohio region. In the last year, its growth rate has hovered around 30%.

Their investment brings all the programs and services of WeConnect to their community without additional infrastructure investment and through the connection of a fiber optic network. With this model, Westerville has an opportunity to become a technology source to the communities around us for projected population growth of at least three million people.

$3.5 million savings

FIBER TO THE HOME PILOT EXPANDS

Lightning-fast Internet paired with Westerville reliability?

WeConnect now has approval to expand the pilot of our “Fiber to the Home” (FTTH) project to offer residents expanded choices for their at-home Internet services. It’s part of an overall strategy to use public infrastructure—fiber—to deliver services directly to residents in their homes.

Municipal broadband, already a utility service offered by select communities across the nation, uses public infrastructure to provide Internet service for a low-cost and packaged alternative to the private market. FTTH is successful in many cities because residents trust public service delivery and fully understand the utility rate model in pricing.

While timing and accessibility are still in development, service could begin as soon as this year in more Westerville neighborhoods. Watch for updates online: www.westerville.org/weconnect.

Westerville businesses have saved more than $3.5 million technical debt over the last 5 years

800+ jobs WēConnect has aided in the attraction/retention of more than 800 jobs

2.5-mile radius 85% of the $6 million to build WēConnect went to businesses located within a 2.5-mile radius of City Hall

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21 S. State St. Westerville, Ohio 43081 www.we ste r v i l l e.org