The Highland Heights City Council met on December 2, 2025, opening with a prayer by Council Member Renee Heinrichs and the Pledge of Allegiance. Council approved the minutes from the November 4 meeting, with one abstention. The mayor then recognized the winners of the city’s annual Halloween Decoration Contest, Steve and Liz Penrod, who were presented with congratulations and a photo opportunity before departing early. No new correspondence was presented, though council noted positive public feedback regarding the city’s holiday decorations. Several members were thanked for braving cold weather to decorate the fountain, and staff and residents were commended for their contributions to a successful holiday food drive that delivered 937 pounds of food to the local Pantry of Hope, helping restock shelves after the pantry had been forced to turn families away before Thanksgiving.

Staff reports followed, beginning with the city administrator’s update on the greenspace project, noting that the sole bid received for Phase 1A came in higher than expected and is under review by the city engineer. He also highlighted the extensive planning that went into this year’s upgraded holiday décor, acknowledged the public works crew for their effective snow response, and reminded residents of the December 13 “Christmas with Santa” event. Council completed the second reading and unanimously approved Ordinance 11-2025, which increases compensation for future mayors and council members beginning January 1, 2027—the first such adjustment in 17 years. Police Chief Bill Birkenhauer encouraged residents to call the department promptly when issues arise and warned against leaving valuables or running vehicles unattended during the holiday season. The mayor shared an anecdote illustrating the importance of locking doors and expressed appreciation for officers’ vigilance. Additional staff updates covered tax collections, code enforcement activity, and public works projects—including delays in installing new city sign caps due to specialized limestone fabrication.

City Attorney Michelle Evanson then conducted the first reading of Ordinance 12-2025, proposing annexation of approximately 4.83 acres into city limits with consent of the property owner, contingent upon a forthcoming zoning change ordinance. Representatives Hutch Johnson and property owner Wayne Kramer attended to answer questions, explaining their intent to pursue a future development of senior multifamily housing on the site, anticipated as 55-and-over rental units. With no further business, the meeting proceeded toward adjournment.

This summary was generated using AI.