Co-President Steve Dunton opened the meeting by leading in the Pledge of Allegiance. Program Host, John Pribonic followed with a meaningful invocation.
Steve thanked Sgt. at Arms, Todd Hearty, along with his helper Dave Renninger for checking us in this morning. He welcomed visitors, Christopher Shelby and Zack Cowan, our speaker.
Secretary, Andy Denton talked with us about our A.Z. Baker application and how the size of the club determines the number of points we need to have to apply for the award, which gathers information about activity, attendance, donations and service. This year we needed 6,500 points. Members were asked to guess the actual number of points we earned. Tony Malorni guessed 13,100 which was the closest but was far below the 20, 775 points that we earned this past year. Thanks to the club for everything we have done and will continue to do.
PROGRAM: Zack Cowan, City of Stow's Planning and Development Director is a graduate of The Ohio State University and said he feels that Stow is his favorite place of the five cities in Ohio he has worked. He explained that the responsibilities of his division are divided into four areas: Planning/Development, Economic Development, Zoning and Geographic Information System (GIS) Mapping.
In the planning process, they are working on updating their comprehensive plan, the zoning codes and the school travel plan. Interestingly, the school travel plan specifically addresses anything within a mile of a school that addresses ways to improve safety. In the economic development area, they work closely with the county to look at business retention and expansion, available property listings and coordination of incentives.
The enforcement of zoning area includes issuing permits, building code compliance and zoning appeals. Last year they looked at 40 completed applications for buildings and interestingly 132 applications for fences. Installation of a pool must also be approved through these permits The GIS mapping maintains up to date data including maps that are available for the public should they be involved in development or construction.
Some current projects include: Millers' Landing with 45 single family homes starting at $450,000 and an addition to Vitalia of 33 independent villas. The area around the former Stow-Glen property will include Meijer gas, Avenue of Stow nursing home, one-bedroom apartments called Evergreen Park of Stow and Chick Fil-A. Also in the works are a new Huntington Bank, Panda Express and a 78 Brew Coffee Drive-Thru. Fortis College is renovating, and plans continue at the former Stow-Kent Lanes which will include an indoor arcade and a bar. The architect's plans have now been submitted to the owner for approval.
Several industrial properties, particularly in the Seasons Rd. area have been developed or are in the works During the time between 1975 and 2004 there were 12,310 square feet of industrial development in the area. By contrast, in the last 20 years, there have been 2,183,191 square feet of development.
In the design phase now is "The Amp ", a new amphitheater which will go into the Norton Rd. Plaza along with new restaurants, a redone parking lot and even a trail behind the plaza. The new venue should be a major entertainment attraction.
HAPPY BUCKS: Mary Dula had happy news about two of her grandchildren. Her grandson received the Stolion Award at Fishcreek School. Her granddaughter will be going to Peru with the Peace Corps where she will teach finance and hygiene to women.
CELEBRATIONS:
Wedding Anniversary: Happy Anniversary to Elizabeth and Chip Eaken who are celebrating 30 years of marriage.
Birthday: If you see Ron Taggart, be sure to wish him happy birthday.
Drawing: Zack, our speaker, picked the winning ticket but Mike Dunton drew the 7 of clubs, so we are still looking for the joker.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Golf Outing: Friday, June 13 will be our annual golf outing. Golfers are still welcome. The information is attached to these minutes, so pass it on to anyone who might like to have a great time at Fox Den!
Bob Oborn's Installation as District Governor: On Wednesday evening July 2 in the evening, there will be a district celebration featuring the installation of Bob Oborn as District Governor. It will be right here at The Center and will offer heavy appetizers and a cash bar. Cost is $25.00. Go to rotarydistrict6630.org to register for the event.
Foodbank: Your help is needed from 4:30 to 6:30 on Wednesday, June 11 at the Akron-Canton Foodbank for our volunteer time that will make a difference in many people's lives. We don't have Interact with us during the summer, so others need to step up to fill in the gaps.
Adopt-A-Spot: Marty Tass reminded us to sign up for a turn at weeding our spot to keep it looking nice. Sign up as you sign in.
Ronald McDonald House: It will be our turn on June 27 to prepare a dinner for the residents. We will cook from 2:00-5:00. The sign-up sheet will welcome you.
Harvest Home: President Steve said that they worked on the refurbishing of Harvest Home again yesterday as part of the Cluster Project. If you are interested in helping in the next couple of weeks, contact Steve at sdunton707@gmail.com and he will send the link for signing up to help.
Rubber Ducks Game: As our fifth Wednesday social activity, we will attend the Rubber Duck games together on Wednesday, July 30. Tickets will cost only $13.00, so sign up now and pay later. Guests are welcome.
Board Meeting: Board members will be surveyed about having the meeting on Thursday, June 19 instead of the 20th, so watch for further information.
Chamber Seating for the Fourth of July Parade: Julie McLain explained that the Chamber will have special seating and a catered breakfast for parade watchers on July 4th. Go to the Chamber website to find out more information.
Steve closed the meeting by leading us in the Rotary Four-Way Test.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
Wednesday, June 11, 7:30 at The Center, regular weekly meeting when Machelle Syx of Akron Children's Hospital will be our speaker
Wednesday, June 11, 4:30-6:30, volunteer at the Akron-Canton Foodbank
Friday, June 13, Golf Outing at Fox Den
Maybe Thursday June 19, 7:15 a.m. Board Meeting at City Hall. Watch for further news.
Wednesday, July 2, in the evening, Bob Oborn will be installed as Rotary District 6630 Governor at The Center as part of the Banner Exchange and Rewards Ceremony. Social time begins at 6:00 and program at 7:00.
Wednesday, July 20, 6:30 Rubber Ducks game in the evening at the Rubber Ducks stadium. No morning meeting as it is a fifth Wednesday.
Wednesday, October 9 in the evening, Reverse Raffle/Silent Auction at The Center.