2023 City of Westerville Resident Guide by City of Westerville

2023 Resident Guide + 2022 Annual Report and Financial Performance www.westerville.org

Westerville City Council

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.

@tellwesterville

@WvilleElectric

@WestervillePD

@WestervilleFire

@WestervillePark

@WestervilleBiz

Download the “Tell Westerville” app.

Westerville City Council

Tuesdays

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.

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 The $15 million project was approved by Westerville voters to accommodate WPD’s growth and improve outdated facilities.

WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE 2

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

CITY MANAGER Message from the

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

3 WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

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

...WITH A FOCUS ON

...IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP

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.

WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE 4

ADVOCACY IN WESTERVILLE Events Amplify Communities COPS AND KIDS DAY Celebrates 30 Years "ADVANCE WESTERVILLE" Plan Launching COMMUNITY GUIDE MAY/JUNE 2023 MAY www.westerville.org Program Registration Dates Registration Information See page 68. S M W 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 2829 30 31

WESTERVILLE

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.

MARCH

5 WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

THURSDAY,

16, 2023

Financial Performance

OPERATING EXPENDITURES

*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.

6 WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE RECEIPTS Municipal Income Taxes $40,013,463 Property Taxes 4,590,794 Intergovernmental Revenue 4,099,588 Charges for Services 55,866 Fees, Licenses & Permits 712,149 Fines & Forfeitures 224,626 Interest & Fiscal Charges 529,581 Miscellaneous 309,898 $50,535,965 Municipal Income Taxes Property Taxes Intergovernmental Revenue Charges for Services Fees, Licenses & Permits Fines & Forfeitures Interest & Fiscal Charges Miscellaneous 79 % 9 % 8 % 1 % 1 % 1 % 0.5 % 0.5 % RECEIPTS 2022 GENERAL FUND OPERATING EXPENDITURES Security of Persons & Property 18,016,436 Public Health 52,655 Basic Utility Services 754,615 Community Development 4,466,361 General Government 13,022,106 $36,312,173 Security of Persons & Property Public Health Basic Utility Services Community Development General Government

49 % 12 % 36 % 1 % 2 %

FUNCTION City Spending by

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:

7 WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE Westerville Public Library Delaware County Westerville City Schools City of Westerville Delaware Mental Health Delaware County Park Preservation DELAWARE COUNTY Figures are based on one dollar $0.1784 $0.0204 $0.7020 $0.0735 $0.0152 $0.0105 FRANKLIN COUNTY Figures are based on one dollar $0.1605 $0.0183 $0.0057 $0.6319 $0.1836 Westerville Public Library Franklin County Westerville City Schools City of Westerville Columbus State in 000’s 323 594 835 1,058 2,267 2,921 2,825 3,996 5,060 4,466 11,071 15,272 16,386

City Council Mayor’s Court Law Administration Buildings and Grounds Maintenance Emergency Communications Management Information Systems Finance-Admin/ Utilities/Tax Public Service/ Street Maintenance Administration Planning & Development Parks & Recreation Police Fire*

*Westerville Division of Fire also serves Blendon Township.

Public Safety Mayor’s Court Utilities

Service

& Recreation

Public

Parks

www.westerville.org/transparency

Saving Public Dollars

COMPETITIVE BIDDING INSURANCE

$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

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

AUDITOR OF STATE AWARD WITH DISTINCTION

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.

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.

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 8

WATER

Public Utilities

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 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).

This spring, AEP Ohio announced rate increases taking effect June 2023. This increase will not impact Westerville customers. Learn more at www.westerville.org .

WED ENERGY AND COST-SAVING PROGRAMS

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.

CHOICE ENERGY-SAVINGS PROGRAM

BATTERY, LIGHT BULB AND HOLIDAY LIGHT RECYCLING

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.

WATER TREATMENT AND DISTRIBUTION

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.

9 WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

Huber Ridge Gahanna* Reynoldsburg* Upper Arlington* Hilliard* Grove City* Dublin* Worthington* New Albany* Delaware County Westerville Delaware Columbus* Pickerington * Columbus Water $68.52 $48.59 $47.12 $46.52 $46.29 $44.19 $44.26 $42.51 $41.98 $38.31 $35.00 $32.58 $32.29 $26.28

$0 $50 $100 $150 $200 Wester ville Monthly Bill (Projected 2020) AEP Monthly Bill (Projected 2020) (2013) $132.61 WESTERVILLE ELECTRIC $198* AEP OHIO

ECO-SMART

*Effective June 2023. Based on 1,000 kWh per month. present, elevated levels lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. Westerville responsible for providing high-quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to two minutes before using water for drinking cooking. you are concerned about lead your water, you may wish have your water tested. list of laboratories certified the state Ohio to test for lead may be found at www.epa.ohio.gov/ ddagw or by calling (614) 644-2752 Information on lead drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline 1-800-426-4791 www.epa.gov/safewater/lead CityThe processthein materialthedocumenting construction for all water service lines. How is MY WATER TREATED? The Westerville Water Treatment Plant, located 312 W. Main St., operates 24 hours per day and is capable treating 7.5 million gallons of water daily. A multi-step process is used to treat the source water effectively meet drinking water standards and protect the public’s health. The process begins with the addition of coagulant (ferric chloride) clarify the water. The water then softened with the addition of lime and caustic soda to remove the minerals calcium and magnesium, followed by the addition of carbon dioxide to adjust the pH. After softening, the water filtered through rapid sand filters and then through granular activated filters.(GAC)carbon watertheNext, sodiumwithdisinfected (chlorine).hypochlorite processtreatmenttheofstepsfinalThe involve the addition of phosphate for corrosion control and fluoride for the prevention tooth decay. On an as-needed basis, activated carbon and potassium permanganate can be added for taste and odor control. Following treatment, the water is initially stored in an underground clearwell at the water plant before being pumped tanksstorageelevatedandsystemdistributionthe for your use. In the event of an emergency, the Water Plant can continue operate using diesel-powered generator. Water QualityReport 2022 This annual report provides summary information from 2022 about your drinking water; where comes from, how is treated, what it contains and how compares to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) drinking water standards.quality analyzedandcollectedweresamplesyear,theThroughout for more than 100 different contaminants. The majority the sample results showed no detectable contaminants, tables.followingtheinpresentedaredidthatonestheandWe have a current, unconditional Ohio EPA license to operate our water system. CROSS CONNECTIONS & BACKFLOW PREVENTION A cross-connection physical connection between possible source of contamination and the drinking water system piping. the pressure the source contamination greater than the water system pressure, contaminated water may backflow into the drinking water system. Pressure drops the public water system caused by water line breaks, pump failures and fire fighting can also cause backflow situation. Homes with underground irrigation systems and most commercial buildings are required to have backflow prevention device. This backflow device protects the public water system fromanypotentiallycontaminatedwaterflowingbackintothepublicsystemfromtheenduser. Backflow prevention devices are required by the state be tested annually by the owner. The testing must be done by an Ohio-certified tester, with copy the results submitted to the Water Division by the tester. Additional information available on the www.westerville.org/water City of Westerville Water Division May 2023 DRINKING WATER CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT 2022 (service year) Source Water AND ITS Vulnerability Westerville’s primary source drinking water surface water from Alum Creek. To augment this water supply, the City has three wells in the Alum Creek Valley Aquifer that can also provide water the Westerville Water Treatment Plant. Surface waters by their nature are susceptible to contamination from activities on the surrounding land, and monitored.constantlyandtreatedproperlybemustthereforeOur source of ground water also susceptible contamination due its shallow depth and thin protective natural clay layer. Land uses the area around Alum Creek include a number potential contamination sources such as oil and gas wells, leaking underground storage tanks, gas stations, automotive repair shops, airports, landfills, salt and pesticide storage areas, pharmaceuticals and road crossings. As result, both Alum Creek and the aquifer are classified as having high susceptibility to contamination. The City taking steps to help minimize contaminants in source water. Measures include establishing source water protection plan (available at www.westerville.org/water local zoning regulations, storm-water management program and ofimplementationthe Friendsthebyplanactionqualitywater of Alum Creek and Tributaries (FACT) and the City. Through these efforts and your consideration the use and disposal Detailedsupply.waterourprotecthelpallcanwechemicalsof providedisinformation AssessmentSourceWaterDrinkingthe Report that is available at the Water Plant, by calling (614) 901-6770. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Westerville City Council, which governs the water system, meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month p.m. in Council Chambers City Hall, 21 South State Street. For additional information, contact Westerville Water Utility Manager Richard Lorenz (614)901-6770,Richard.Lorenz@westerville.org YoumayalsoobtaininformationfromtheCity’swebsite www.westerville.org Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants drinking water than others the general public. Immuno-compromised individuals such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, people who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly and infants can be particularly at risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. EPA/Centers for Disease Control guidelines on appropriate means lessen the risk infectionbyCryptosporidiumandothermicrobialcontaminantsareavailablefromthe EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791) rates in Central Ohio. See how our Westerville rates compare to other communities in Central Ohio. Huber Ridge Gahanna* Reynoldsburg* Upper Arlington* $68.52 $48.59 $47.12 $46.52 Lead AND Drinking Water present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead drinking water primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. Westerville responsible for providing high-quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used plumbing components. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds two minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. you are concerned about lead your water, you may wish to have your water tested. list of laboratories certified the state Ohio test for lead may be found www.epa.ohio.gov/ ddagw by calling (614) 644-2752 Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 www.epa.gov/safewater/lead The City the process of documenting the material of construction for all water service lines. How is MY WATER TREATED? The Westerville Water Treatment Plant, located at 312 W. Main St., operates 24 hours per day and is capable treating 7.5 million gallons of water daily. multi-step process used treat the source water effectively meet drinking water standards and protect the public’s health. The process begins with the addition coagulant (ferric chloride) to clarify the water. The water is then softened with the addition of lime and caustic soda remove the minerals calcium and magnesium, followed by the addition of carbon dioxide adjust the pH. After softening, the water filtered through rapid sand filters and then through granular activated filters.(GAC)carbon watertheNext, sodiumwithdisinfected (chlorine).hypochlorite processtreatmenttheofstepsfinalThe involve the addition of phosphate for corrosion control and fluoride for the prevention of tooth decay. On an as-needed basis, activated carbon and potassium permanganate can be added for taste and odor control. Following treatment, the water initially stored an underground clearwell at the water plant before being tanksstorageelevatedandsystemdistributionthetopumped for your use. In the event of an emergency, the Water Plant can continue to operate using diesel-powered generator. Water Quality Report 2022 This annual report provides summary information from 2022 about your drinking water; where comes from, how treated, what contains and how compares to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) drinking water quality standards. analyzedandcollectedweresamplesyear,theThroughout for more than 100 different contaminants. The majority of the sample results showed no detectable contaminants, tables.followingtheinpresentedaredidthatonestheand We have current, unconditional Ohio EPA license operate our water system. CROSS CONNECTIONS & BACKFLOW PREVENTION cross-connection physical connection between possible source of contamination and the drinking water system piping. the pressure of the source of contamination is greater than the water system pressure, contaminated water may backflow into the drinking water system. Pressure drops the public water system caused by water line breaks, pump failures and fire fighting can also cause backflow situation. Homes with underground irrigation systems and most commercial buildings are required to have backflow prevention device. This backflow device protects the public water system fromanypotentiallycontaminatedwaterflowingbackintothepublicsystemfromtheenduser. Backflow prevention devices are required by the state to be tested annually by the owner. The testing must be done by an Ohio-certified tester, with copy the results submitted the Water Division by the tester. Additional information available on the City website: www.westerville.org/water City Westerville Water Division May 2023 DRINKING WATER CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT 2022 (service year) Source Water AND ITS Vulnerability Westerville’s primary source drinking water is surface water from Alum Creek. To augment this water supply, the City has three wells the Alum Creek Valley Aquifer that can also provide water to the Westerville Water Treatment Plant. Surface waters by their nature are susceptible to contamination from activities on the surrounding land, and monitored.constantlyandtreatedproperlybemusttherefore Our source ground water is susceptible to contamination due to its shallow depth and thin protective natural clay layer. Land uses in the area around Alum Creek include a number potential contamination sources such as oil and gas wells, leaking underground storage tanks, gas stations, automotive repair shops, airports, landfills, salt and pesticide storage areas, pharmaceuticals and road crossings. As result, both Alum Creek and the aquifer are classified as having high susceptibility to contamination. The City is taking steps help minimize contaminants in source water. Measures include establishing source water protection plan (available at www.westerville.org/water local zoning regulations, storm-water management program and ofimplementationthe Friendsthebyplanactionqualitywater Alum Creek and Tributaries (FACT) and the City. Through these efforts and your consideration the use and disposal Detailedsupply.waterourprotecthelpallcanwechemicalsof information provided AssessmentSourceWaterDrinkingthe Report that available the Water Plant, or by calling (614) 901-6770. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Westerville City Council, which governs the water system, meets on the first and third Tuesday each month at p.m. Council Chambers City Hall, 21 South State Street. For additional information, contact Westerville Water Utility Manager Richard Lorenz (614) 901-6770, Richard.Lorenz@westerville.org YoumayalsoobtaininformationfromtheCity’swebsite www.westerville.org Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants drinking water than others in the general public. Immuno-compromised individuals such persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, people who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly and infants can be particularly risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. EPA/Centers for Disease Control guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the riskofinfection Cryptosporidiumandothermicrobialcontaminantsareavailablefromthe EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791) Special Health INFORMATION waterlowesttheofsomeenjoyresidentsWesterville rates in Central Ohio. See how our Westerville rates compare to other communities in Central Ohio. 2022 RESIDENTIAL AVERAGE WATER BILL (PER MONTH) Columbus Water Huber Ridge Gahanna* Reynoldsburg* Upper Arlington* Hilliard* Grove City* Dublin* Worthington* New Albany* Delaware County Westerville Delaware Columbus* Pickerington $68.52 $48.59 $47.12 $46.52 $46.29 $44.19 $44.26 $42.51 $41.98 $38.31 $35.00 $32.58 $32.29 $26.28

QUALITY REPORT AVAILABLE NOW RUSH-HOUR

REWARDS REBATE PROGRAM POWERUP RESIDENTIAL CHARGING AND REBATE PROGRAM

FREE

Economic Development in Westerville

THREE KEY MILESTONES

1999

941 ACRES

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.

2014

62 ACRES

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.

2023

88 ACRES

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.

10 WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

WESTERVILLE ATTRACTS NEW CORPORATE PARTNERS Recent Headlines

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.

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.

ADVANCE WESTERVILLE

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.

WESTERN ALLIANCE BANK

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.

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.

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

11 WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE TOP 10 EMPLOYERS * * in 2022 Income tax payments to the City of Westerville 6 T. Marzetti Co. 7 City of Westerville 8 Vertiv Corp. 9 OhioHealth 10 Bank of America 4

Westerville City Schools 1

DHL Supply Chain Mount Carmel Health Systems JP Morgan Chase Bank 5 Central Ohio Primary Care Physicians VERTIV

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.

www.westerville.org | City of Westerville 12

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 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.

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 .

SERVE

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.

| City

Westerville

facebook.com/cityofwesterville @cityofwesterville linkedin.com/company/city-of-westerville @tellwesterville 13

www.westerville.org

YOUR COMMUNITY

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.

Firearms Ranges

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

WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

Officer Eric J. Joering

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

both calls for service and officer-initiated activity. Previously reported only calls for service.

Suspicious

835 CALLS FOR SERVICE *Includes

1,166 Burglar Alarm ! !! ! ! 1,444 Traffic Complaint 1,106 ! !! Disturbance $ 983 Theft 1,086 Non-Injury: 795 Hit-Skip: 192 injury: 99 Property Damage

34,880*

Person

Firearms

Training Facility

Officer Anthony P. Morelli Defensive Tactics Training Room

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.

WFD EARNS GRANT FOR NEW “MOBILE” AMBULANCE 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.

EMS Responses

6,388

Fire Responses

1,992 Response time

5:05 minutes Building Inspections

2,280

Smoke Detector Installations*

* 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.

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.

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.

WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE 16

DON’T

WESTERVILLE of

“Tell Westerville” About the BY NUMBERS THE

ADVENTURE PARK

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

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.

316,500 attendees

The Westerville Community Center hosted 316,500 total attendees

SHRED-IT DAYS

FALL DATE: Saturday, October 14, 2023

7,504 total passes (active)

81,698 visits

Highlands Park Aquatic Center

LOCATION: Hoff Woods Park - parking lot off McCorkle near the soccer fields (same as previous years)

TIME: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

17 WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

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!

PUMPKIN GLOW TRAIL NEW!

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.

FUN AND GAMES NEW!

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.

EXHIBITS NEW!

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.

FOOD AND MUSIC NEW!

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.

18 WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

19 WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

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

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.”

20 WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE

DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION New Leadership in

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.

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.

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

First DEI Director Appointed

DEI Department Established Source of Income in Housing Ordinance

Intake/Investigation Process Agreement: Columbus

Ethnic Non-Intimidation Ordinance

Public Input Sessions

Business, Faith-Based, General Public

Westerville City Council Resolution of Principles

Non-Discrimination Actions and Ordinance

EEO and Anti-Harassment Personnel Code Updates

Procurement/Contracting Provisions Update

EEO Personnel Code Update

Diversity Awareness Plan DEI Staff Training Development

2022 2021 2020 2019

2023

2018 2010

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.

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.

85% of the zoning certificate applications received were submitted through the new online portal.

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

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.

3,108 tons

CURBSIDE RECYCLING

116,000 lbs.

3,230 tons CURBSIDE YARD DEBRIS

5,853 cubic yards

CURBSIDE LEAF COLLECTION

DROP-OFF COMPOSTING

42,000 lbs. PUMPKINS DROPPED OFF FOR COMPOSTING

127,645 lbs.

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE

WWW.WESTERVILLE.ORG | CITY OF WESTERVILLE 22

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.

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.

$3.5 million savings

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

BY NUMBERS

THE