Stow · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Stow public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Growth in Senior Programs and Youth Sports
Membership is at 522 for 2026, growing about 100 per month, and a 172-person survey confirms seniors want the current programs plus line dancing. Staff plan multiple simultaneous programs in different rooms this year.
Library–Parks Partnership
The library and parks department keep building joint programming — silent book clubs in parks, senior tech help on Tuesdays, and shared events. Library budgets are shrinking, but the Friends and Foundation funds all programming, so residents can keep using it free of charge.
Fox Den golf shop merchandise budget
The Fox Den pro shop needed more buying power for TaylorMade golf merchandise to finish the season, with unsold stock returnable for credit next year.
City mascot selection
The Arts Commission narrowed mascot candidates to an owl, a fox, and a billy goat, which will now go to the city's other boards and commissions for the final vote. The mascot will be used at community events with swappable outfits and props representing different city groups.
Amphitheater operations funding
Parks and Rec will host seven pop-ups at the AMP construction site to let the public follow the planning and construction. The commission will staff a booth, starting April 12.
Heather Hills playground opening
A $130,000 playground replacement came in about $30,000 under budget, with swings, a spinner, a climber, and slides — plus plans for a shade sail and a fun curved pathway inspired by the popular 'Blizzard of Oz' theme.
Inclusive children's event at community center
The commission is choosing a first event for residents with disabilities and seniors — sensory movies, bowling, crafts, and games were all pitched, with an 'inclusive night' at the Senior Center emerging as the favorite for May.
Angel Memorial deterioration at Silver Springs
The 'Say My Child's Name' group wants a park-like remembrance space — no burials — for families who have lost children, funded by donations and targeted for completion this summer. They asked council for approval and help finding sponsors.
Performing arts facility gap
The Stow Players and Stow Symphony Orchestra say the city lacks adequate rehearsal and performance space, limiting local performing arts. Members hope the amphitheater and future partnerships might help.
Mangini Ranch Trails Project Construction Package
Four resolutions would have awarded a $2.77 million construction contract to Consolidated Engineering, denied a bid protest from Dutch Contracting, and hired Kimley-Horn and Pinnacle for construction support — a major new trails investment. None advanced because the meeting was canceled.
Library services for seniors
The library launched bookmobile service at Silver Lake Towers and programs at Eden Vista and Regent, but cut mailed program guides due to state funding losses, making outreach harder. One-on-one tech help and scam awareness remain available.
Senior resource refrigerator magnet project
The commission picked one project to actually finish this year: a magnet listing trusted phone numbers for rides, Meals on Wheels, 211, and grocery bus services. Members must send suggestions by June 2, and legal will review it before publication.
Traffic signal box art phase six
More than 100 artists submitted artwork this year, and a selection committee meets to pick pieces for the limited number of boxes. Many more boxes will open up when signal boxes are replaced on routes 59, Graham Road, and Darrow Road.