Massillon, Ohio Development News
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June 29th 2026 COUNCIL CONTINUES EXTENSIVE DATA CENTER DIALOGUE!
Published: Jun 29, 2026
Aqua Ohio Proposes Water Rate Increases Through 2031, Cites Infrastructure Needs
The council reviewed proposed water rate increases from Aqua Ohio for the years 2027 through 2031. Aqua Ohio presented a plan for a 5.5% increase in 2027 and 5.75% for the subsequent four years, stating these rates are lower than those approved by the Public Utility Commission (PUCO) for other Ohio customers. The company explained that the proposed rates are necessary to fund significant capital improvement projects, including water treatment plant upgrades and water main replacements, citing the aging infrastructure and the need to meet future demand. Concerns were raised about the lack of discount programs for seniors and individuals with disabilities, and about the transparency and necessity of the proposed capital expenditures. Aqua Ohio confirmed that they actively seek grant funding but often do not qualify as a private utility.
City Council Debates Data Center Zoning, Considers I-2 District Only
The city council discussed potential amendments to Ordinance 60-2026, concerning data centers. Key discussion points included restricting data centers to the I-2 (General Industrial) zoning district, increasing setbacks from residential areas, and implementing post-construction review for noise levels. Council members debated the merits of I-1 versus I-2 zoning, with a general consensus leaning towards limiting data centers to I-2 to address community concerns about noise and proximity to residential areas. The attorney advised making formal motions for amendments to provide clearer direction for rewrites. Discussions also touched upon the potential for rezoning I-1 parcels to I-2 in the future and the process for amending the ordinance, emphasizing the need to avoid violating open meeting laws.
Masswood Energy Park Roadway Dedication Approved by Planning Commission
The council discussed accepting a replat and roadway dedication plan for the Masswood Energy and Technology Park, located on 9th Street Southwest. The property is zoned I-2 (General Industrial District) and the City Planning Commission approved the plat and dedication plan. The dedication involves re-establishing a 50-foot right-of-way for a section of 9th Street, which currently has varying widths. This action standardizes the right-of-way for future development and infrastructure management.
City to Reclassify Administrative Roles to Improve Compensation Parity
The council reviewed two ordinances aimed at reclassifying administrative positions to align their pay grades with similar roles in other city departments and comparable cities. The first ordinance changes the administrative assistant role in the Engineering Department from 11S to 12S. The second ordinance reclassifies an administrative assistant/permit assistant in the Building Department from 9S to 12S and an office manager from 11S to 14S. These changes are intended to ensure competitive compensation and attract/retain qualified personnel. Funds for these transitions are expected to be offset by revenue from the city's operation in Canal Fulton.
City to Consider $41,380 NOPEC Grant for Energy Efficiency Projects
The Finance Committee presented a new agenda item to authorize the Director of Public Service and Safety to accept a NOPEC Energized Community Grant of $41,380. The funds are derived from a per-resident amount for participants enrolled in NOPEC programs and can be used for energy efficiency projects, such as lighting, windows, insulation, HVAC systems, and energy infrastructure. Funds can roll over and potentially be used by the end of 2028, allowing for savings for larger projects. The specific use of the funds is still under consideration, with potential applications in upgrading building infrastructure like windows and HVAC systems. The grant funds are for city infrastructure use and are not directly distributed to residents.
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July 6th 2026 COUNCIL CONTINUES TO WORK THROUGH CHANGES ON PROPOSED DATA CENTER ZONING LEGISLATION !
July 6th 2026 COUNCIL CONTINUES TO WORK THROUGH CHANGES ON PROPOSED DATA CENTER ZONING LEGISLATION !
JULY 3rd 2026 MASSILLON BICENTENNIAL PARADE! Live Broadcast
JULY 3rd 2026 MASSILLON BICENTENNIAL PARADE! Live Broadcast
June 29th 2026 COUNCIL CONTINUES EXTENSIVE DATA CENTER DIALOGUE!
FROM MOM, TO COACH, TO AUTHOR, WE SIT DOWN WITH MASSILLON'S 'OTHER' COACH, BECCA MOORE..ENJOY!
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