Stow · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Stow public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2027 Capital Improvement Plan adoption
The city's spending roadmap for 2027 roads, parks, fire equipment and water infrastructure was adopted after a version swap that trimmed $518,000. Residents on Graham Road learned resurfacing comes next spring and a federally funded sidewalk project is targeted for 2030.
AMP Entertainment District drink-and-walk zone (Ordinance 2026-156)
A designated outdoor refreshment area would let people carry open drinks within the AMP entertainment district between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. daily. A public hearing is set for October 22, with a vote expected December 10.
Rezoning of 4239 Kent Road for commercial use
A new 30-year tax-increment financing district will support the Kent Road development with a Chick-fil-A, a Sheetz, and two retail buildings. About $5.4 million in increased property investment will be captured over 30 years, with school and library compensation payments built in.
Sale of city land to EnviroScience Inc.
The city is moving forward with selling part of a parcel to EnviroScience Inc. — the ordinance goes to council tonight after coming out of executive session.
Development Pressure and New Zoning Standards
Huntington Bank opened a new branch, Panda Express and a Sheetz are breaking ground, and rezoning interest stretches down to Marsh Road — the area is hot for years to come.
Public Hearing
Stow City Council is hosting a public hearing on October 22 to talk about a brand-new ordinance. If you want to have a say in local policy changes, now is your chance to speak up.
Plow truck GPS and cameras
The city is adding GPS tracking and forward-facing cameras to 20 plow trucks so it can prove streets were plowed and back up drivers after accidents. It costs about $46,000 over three years and could expand to more vehicles.
Flock surveillance cameras removal request
A resident urged council to cancel the city's Flock camera contract, citing court filings and expert testimony that the cameras enable warrantless tracking. Council took no action but his full statement was entered into the record.
Data-center zoning code amendments adopted
Ordinance 2026-118 updates Stow's zoning code covering use standards, vehicle parking, and definitions — the package tied to the data-center public hearing earlier that evening. Council called it a proactive step and a model for other cities.
Smith/Landerberger litigation costs
The city faces an $8.1 million countersuit from a property owner after a condemnation order. The approved $50,000 covers the insurance deductible; a judge is weighing motions that could end the case.
Land Acquisition
The city got 38-40 acres of conservation land free via grants from the Western Reserve Land Conservancy, next to 35 acres it already owns — over 70 contiguous acres south of Wyndham Ridge that may someday get trails and parking.
Public Building Closure
Stow is shutting its city buildings to the public again due to COVID-19 concerns. You'll have to handle all your city business online or over the phone for the time being.