The Huber Heights Council Work Session on August 4, 2025, focused on several key topics, including the city's leaf collection services, financial appropriations, and the potential use of opioid settlement funds.
During the meeting, city officials discussed the current capacity of leaf vacuum trucks, confirming that Huber Heights has sufficient resources to meet its leaf collection needs for the next 15 years. The discussion highlighted the importance of adapting to the natural growth of trees in different areas of the city, which affects leaf collection schedules. Officials reassured residents that leaf pickup would continue into late fall, even extending into February in some cases, depending on weather conditions.
The council also reviewed a series of supplemental appropriations. Notably, a return of $275,000 from an EDGE grant was discussed, which involves reimbursing the general fund after local businesses submit their expenses. Additionally, a $100,000 advance for a pending EDGE grant related to the PBS Plastics project was proposed. Other financial matters included budgeting for unexpected employee leave payouts and additional utility expenses for public works.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the Ohio Opioid Settlement Fund. The council noted that approximately $125,000 is available for spending, with discussions on how to allocate these funds effectively. Council members expressed interest in exploring creative uses for the money, such as funding programs aimed at preventing substance abuse among youth. The need for a list of approved expenses for these funds was emphasized, with plans to revisit the topic in a future work session.
Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to maintaining essential services while also addressing financial management and community health initiatives. The council plans to continue discussions on these topics in upcoming meetings.