City council discussed ongoing and future public transportation improvements, infrastructure projects and upcoming grant applications at its March 4 meeting. The Oxford Area Trail System (OATS) remains a focal point, with updates on Phase 5 and new grant applications for Phase 6.
Public transit and infrastructure
A resolution was passed in support of state Issue 2, which is the renewal of the State Capital Improvement Program that provides funding for local infrastructure projects.
Oxford has benefited from approximately $3.4 million in past allocations, where it has funded, among other things, the reconstruction of US27 and the brick streets on College Avenue and High Street. City manager Douglas R. Elliot noted this measure would not raise taxes and is expected to generate 35,000 construction jobs statewide. It will appear on the May 6 statewide ballot.
OATS Phase 5 updates
Council approved the submission of a grant application to the Ohio Department of Transportation for Phase 6 of OATS.
If approved, the funding will support planning, design and construction efforts at Mary Day Park, Fairfield Road and Trenton Oxford Road.
The council also revisited land acquisitions required for OATS Phase 5, including parcels near Oxford Riley Road and Gardenia Drive.
Public concerns were raised by property owners Chris Shoker and Laura Osborne, who expressed frustration over the city’s approach to securing easements.
“There is a process in which a fair value is assessed as to what the value of that land is, so there is compensation involved," Ben Mazer, the assistant Law Director, said.
Laura Osborne concluded by saying, “Please stop and … listen to us – listen – we're going to propose solutions, we have expertise and we're willing, but we need transparency and honesty.”
Assistant City Manager Jessica Greene defended the process and said extensive efforts were made to engage with landowners and negotiate agreements since December 2024, often without response.
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The resolution of necessity passed, allowing the city to move forward with the legal process to secure the remaining easements while leaving room for continued negotiations. Several easement agreements were finalized between the city and private property owners. City officials thanked property owners for their cooperation in facilitating trail expansion efforts.
Police department age limit adjustment
Council passed an ordinance eliminating the maximum hiring age of 35 for police officers. According to Police Chief John Jones, the change is intended to widen the recruitment pool, particularly for experienced candidates from out of state or those with military backgrounds.
“My brother was 35 when he entered into the police service and had a lot of leadership skills,” Councilor Amber Franklin said, “and as you said, if they’re in good physical condition and have the wisdom to go with it, why not.”
Honoring Parks and Recreation Director Casey Wooddell
Council members and city staff recognized Parks and Recreation Director Casey Wooddell, who is leaving city staff after 17 years of service to take a position in Eaton, Ohio. Wooddell was praised for his contributions, including the development of the Oxford Aquatic Center, Bark & Park dog park and for organizing numerous community events.
“How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard,” Wooddell said, quoting Winnie the Pooh in his farewell speech.
City Council’s next meeting is at 7:30 p.m. on March 18 in the Oxford Courthouse.
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