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1. What exactly is the project that is being proposed by the City of Xenia?

There are 2 main elements to the project. First is the construction of a new 24,000-square-foot City Administration Facility at the southeast corner of South Whiteman and East Main streets on property that currently serves as a public parking lot. The 2nd main facet of the project is to renovate the current City Hall at 101 North Detroit Street and expand the Xenia Police Division to occupy both the 1st floor and basement. It also includes the relocation of the Probation Office back to City Hall from current leased space on East Main Street. The current City Hall will serve as a Justice Center that will house the following: Xenia Municipal Court, Probation, Law Department, Victim Assistance Program, Xenia Police Division, and Communications Center (911).

2. What prompted the City of Xenia to pursue this project? Why is the project needed?

The Xenia Police Division (XPD) for many years has been operating solely out of the basement of City Hall. Currently, the area occupied by XPD is approximately 6,000 square feet. A recent space needs analysis completed by a local architectural firm concluded that the current space of the Xenia Police Division is slightly less than half of the space needed for a department of its size. In addition, given the current interest rate environment, if the city were to ever undertake a remedy to this problem, now would be the right time to do so.

3. If a larger Police Facility is needed, why isn’t the plan to build a new Police Facility instead?

The original plan was to relocate Xenia Police Department to the old Simon Kenton facility. In addition, city staff investigated the feasibility of constructing a new police facility on the Whiteman Street Lot. In either case, there would be a limited amount of funding sources available to cover the associated debt.

4. If there are limited funding sources available for this type of construction why (how?) can there be for a new City Administration Facility?

Because most all of the city offices that will relocate to the new facility are partially and/or entirely funded by enterprise funds (water, sewer, sanitation), the city can legally expend a portion these monies to finance the associated debt that will be issued. In contrast, a new facility for the Xenia Police Division cannot be funded with enterprise funds because their daily functions are unrelated to water, sewer or sanitation activities.

5. Because a portion of the debt for the new facility involves enterprise funds, are my rates going to increase?

Yes. We have estimated that the typical customer will see his/her yearly water and sewer billings increase by $20-$25. Regardless of whether or not the project goes forward, it is anticipated by city staff that there would need to be a modest increase in rates anyway to cover the costs associated with responsive capital improvement plans needed to address critical water and sewer infrastructure deficiencies.

6. Has the city explored any other options for relocation of either City Administration Offices and/or the Xenia Police Division?

Yes. In 2013, the City of Xenia requested proposals from local building owners and developers to submit ideas and/or alternative locations to be considered by city staff and City Council. In addition to occupying the old Simon Kenton Elementary with both City Administrative Offices and Xenia Police Department, city staff investigated the feasibility of 2 existing vacant buildings in the downtown, an offer of a lease for a vacant downtown structure and the Whiteman Street parking lot. Ultimately, and after developing a cost benefit analysis for each proposal from both a qualitative and quantitative standpoint, the City of Xenia opted to relocate the City Administrative Offices to the Whiteman Street parking lot.

7. City staff have acknowledged publicly that the city is projecting a negative cash flow this year. Why is this project even being considered?

Only a small portion of this project contributes to the projected cash flow deficit. The construction and
renovation costs for this project are derived from the Capital Improvement Budget. The projected deficit is derived from the key operating funds of the Operations budget.

8. You say the need for the project is rooted in the need for more space for the Police Division. Is anyone else benefitting from the project other than Xenia city employees?

Yes. The new City Administration Facility on Whiteman Street was designed to enhance customer service to both residents and business owners. The most notable improvement is the construction of multiple windows with privacy enhancements for utility billing and income tax customers. Those same customers will also have ample parking immediately outside the building with a drop box in the parking lot to make after-hours payments without leaving their vehicles. In addition, because the Planning and Zoning Department will be located adjacent to the Utility Billing and Income Tax Divisions on the first floor of the new facility, zoning and water/sewer tap-in permits can be obtained under the "one-stop-shop" concept.

9. Why isn't this project on the ballot for the voters to decide?

It can be. However, upon a thorough search of Ohio Revised Code (O.R.C.), a ballot issue in this case can only give the voters the ability to render an advisory opinion on the matter that is "non-binding." Ultimately, the decision to move forward with the project is rendered by Xenia City Council.

10. What is the cost of this project?

Based upon the bid awarded to Venture One Construction, the total project cost is $8.1 million. Consequently, the city issued debt in the form of bonds for this amount. With interest, the payments over a 25-year period will result in a final project cost of $12 million.

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1. What is the Property Maintenance Code?

Adopted in 2014, this code is a collection of minimum standards that ensure maintenance of private property in a clean, safe and sanitary condition, so as not to cause a blighting influence or health/safety hazard for a property’s occupants or the surrounding neighborhood. Examples of Property Maintenance Code standards include:

Buildings: Exterior painting/siding, structural integrity, presence of basic utilities, sanitary interior surfaces, light/ventilation, plumbing/electrical equipment
Sites: Tall grass/weeds, garbage accumulation, grading/drainage, inoperable vehicles, parking in the grass.
The City of Xenia currently utilizes an amended version of the 2012 International Property Maintenance Code published by the International Code Council. The code is located in Title 6 of Part 14 of the Xenia Codified Ordinances.
Click here to access it!

2. Why does the City enforce a Property Maintenance Code?

Maintenance of private property is critical in making Xenia a great place to live, work and play; and keeping homes and businesses clean, safe and sanitary. Property maintenance is uneven in some parts of Xenia, partially due to disinvestment and vacancy. Xenians placed a high priority on property maintenance during the 2011-13 X-Plan process.

3. How does the City enforce the Property Maintenance Code?

The City is both proactive and responsive in its efforts to enforce the Property Maintenance Code. Proactive enforcement occurs through the Community Checkup program, which is a proactive neighborhood-by-neighborhood assessment process. The Checkup helps the City to be more fair, consistent and effective in its enforcement efforts. In addition to the Community Checkup, the City’s Code Enforcement Officers promptly respond to citizen complaints.

4. What happens when there is a violation? Are there fines or court charges?

The City believes that the best way to resolve a violation is through voluntary compliance, not by immediately sending a violation letter. A Code Enforcement Officer will generally first attempt to meet with or call the owner of a property with a violation and work with them to develop a plan and timetable for compliance. If the owner is financially disadvantaged, the Code Enforcement Officer will attempt to connect the owner with volunteer groups or grant programs if they are available (although grants are typically in short supply). If the owner refuses to comply, the Code Enforcement Officer will send a Notice of Violation. Exceptions to this process occur with tall grass and trash violations, which occur in such great numbers and must be addressed so quickly that City staff may not have time to call or visit a property owner. In these cases a notice will be mailed to the property owner. If the owner refuses to comply with the Notice of Violation, then one of two things will happen: If the City has the resources to bring the property into compliance (examples are tall grass and trash), the City will do so and invoice the costs to the property owner, along with an administrative fee of $150. If the City does not have the resources to abate the violation, the City will file charges against the owner through Xenia Municipal Court.

5. What is the Community Checkup (proactive enforcement)?

The Community Checkup is an effort by the City to promote investment and maintenance in our neighborhoods and business districts through proactive code enforcement. It involves comprehensive, exterior assessments of neighborhoods and business districts by Code Enforcement Officers. It also involves education of property owners/occupants on maintenance needs and available resources, as well as collaboration with owners to improve maintenance.

6. How/when does Community Checkup occur?

The Community Checkup involves exterior inspections of neighborhoods/business districts by Code Enforcement Officers during the fall/winter months (October - February). The Checkup does not require the presence of property owners or occupants, although they are welcome to participate. If violations are found, Code Enforcement Officers will first work with each owner to voluntarily address the problem. If this process fails, a formal notice of violation will be issued.

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1. What is a Community Reinvestment Area (CRA)?

A CRA is a program authorized by the State of Ohio that allows a local government (like the City of Xenia) to offer real property tax abatements to incentivize new construction, expansion and rehabilitation in areas where there is a demonstrated need for reinvestment.

2. How does a CRA tax abatement work?

Building a new home, store or office or investing in renovations can make real property taxes go up. This is because improvements to a property increase the property’s value, and real property taxes are a percentage of the taxable real property value. A real property tax abatement in a CRA makes it possible for property owners to avoid all or a portion of the tax increase caused by the improvements over a 10-15 year period.

3. How can a CRA tax abatement help me?

If you are a business, homeowner or landlord who would like to build, expand or substantially rehabilitate a building, a CRA real property tax abatement can result in a significant annual savings to you over a period of 10-15 years. The tax savings keeps more money in your pocket that you can invest in your project.

If you are someone who does not have plans to improve your property, you will indirectly benefit from the CRA program because it will encourage improvement of other Xenia properties as well as business attraction and expansion, which can improve the value of your property as well as Xenia’s general quality of life.

4. How can I qualify for a CRA tax abatement?

You must own a residential or business property within the CRA and do one of the following:
1. Undertake new construction of a commercial/industrial building or one or more residential units, or
2. Expand or rehabilitate an existing residential, commercial or industrial building to an extent that it increases the taxable real property value.

5. How much of a tax abatement can I receive?

Below are the types and levels of tax abatements available:
- Residential Remodeling, 1 or 2 family buildings: 10 years/100%
- Residential Remodeling, 3-4-family buildings: 12 years/100%
- Residential New Construction, 1-4 family buildings: 15 years/100%
- Commercial/Industrial/5+ family Residential Remodeling or New Construction: Term length/percentage to be negotiated on a case-by-case basis in an agreement approved by City Council.

It is important to note that projects must add substantially to the taxable real property value in order to realize significant savings through an abatement. Projects involving new construction, significant expansions, and major rehabilitation (i.e. gutting/reconstructing the interior of a building) will generally add substantial taxable value. Smaller remodeling projects, such as replacing a roof, windows, siding, flooring, appliances, cabinets or furnishings may not result in any change in taxable value.

6. How do I apply for a CRA tax abatement?

Upon COMPLETION of your new construction, expansion or renovation project, fill out the online application and follow the online instructions. When you click “submit” it will be sent to the Planning and Zoning Department for processing. You can access the online application by clicking here.

7. Who reviews and approves my CRA application?

The Planning and Zoning Department will review the application to ensure proper documentation has been submitted and will inspect the property to ensure that the application information is consistent with actual work completed. Then the application will be forwarded with a certification to the County Auditor. The County Auditor will then make a final determination on the actual increase in taxable value generated by the new construction, expansion or renovation project. The Auditor will then apply the approved abatement to future tax bills.

8. Will a CRA tax abatement reduce the taxes that I paid on the property prior to new construction, expansion or renovation?

No. A CRA tax abatement only applies to increases in real property taxes caused by improvements to a property. Pre-improvement real property taxes must still be paid.

9. If I receive a CRA tax abatement, will my taxes go up or down during the abatement period if my property is re-assessed or if a tax levy is passed?

Perhaps. You will still be responsible for paying pre-improvement real property taxes on the property, which could go up or down due to periodic County Auditor re-assessments or tax levies.

10. What happens to my tax bill at the end of the tax abatement period?

After a tax abatement expires, you will begin paying the full amount of real property taxes on both the pre-improvement and post-improvement value of a property.

11. Why was this part of Xenia selected for the CRA, and not ALL of Xenia?

Xenia is a diverse community which contains both growing and established areas. Some established neighborhoods and business districts have experienced increases in vacancy as well as a decline in property maintenance. These factors can discourage existing businesses and homeowners from expanding or continuing to invest in their properties. These factors can also discourage new businesses and homeowners from locating in or building in these areas. The CRA offers a tool to help existing and prospective property owners to overcome these obstacles to investment. The City will continue to monitor the progress of the program as well as conditions in other portions of the City and continuously evaluate whether the CRA should be expanded to include additional areas.

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1. How often will I have to appear in court?

Each case that comes through the court is different. There are a few different ways that a case can go. The arraignment is the first step in the court process. At the arraignment, the defendant will enter a guilty, not guilty, or no contest plea. If the defendant pleads not guilty, the case will be scheduled for either a trial or a pre-trial. A pre-trial is a meeting between the defendant (or his/her attorney) and the prosecutor. Your advocate is present during the pre-trial. You do not have to appear at the pre-trial. It is one of your rights, however, to be present at all court hearings. If you choose not to appear at the pre-trial, you will want to let your advocate know.

A pre-trial session may be able to be held over the phone with you. If your case is scheduled for a trial, most likely you will be required to appear in court, and you will be notified with a subpoena. You will be notified each time you are needed, and whenever possible, if the case has been delayed or canceled. It is very important for the Court and the Victim Assistance Program to have your current address and phone number.

2. What if court dates conflict with my job?

Ohio law in accordance with section of 2930.18 of the Ohio Revised Code prohibits certain actions by employers of victims. No employer of a victim shall discharge, discipline, or otherwise retaliate against the victim, a member of the victim’s family, or a victim’s representative for participating, at the prosecutor’s request, in preparation for a criminal justice proceeding or for attendance, pursuant to a subpoena, at a criminal proceeding if the attendance is reasonably necessary to protect the interests of the victim. This section generally does not require an employer to pay an employee for time lost as a result of attendance at a criminal proceeding. An employer who knowingly violates this section is in contempt of court.

3. Everyone seems focused on the rights of the defendant.

Why is that? In our country, any person accused of a crime is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. That person also has a right to face their accusers in a court of law. Our criminal justice system requires many painstaking steps to protect these rights. The system is designed to make sure innocent people aren’t sent to jail or prison. As a result, court proceedings often seem cumbersome or confusing. Although it may seem the system puts the rights of the accused ahead of the victim’s needs and concerns, it is important to remember that prosecutors, judges and other in law enforcement are working hard to make sure that correct person pays the consequences of the crime.

4. What if the defendant’s attorney wants to talk to me?

You can decide whether or not to discuss the case with the defendant’s legal council. Always make sure you know who you are talking with when you discuss the case. Ask for identification. You may ask to have the prosecutor with you during the interview. Give clear and precise statements. Be aware your statements may be used in court.

5. What should I wear?

Court isn’t a formal occasion, but you should dress nicely. Shorts and tank tops are not appropriate for the courtroom. Dress nicely and conservative if possible. Something that you would wear for a special occasion or to church would also be appropriate.

6. Why have I been given a subpoena?

You are being asked to serve as a witness in a criminal court trial. A subpoena lists the date, time, place and proceedings in which your testimony is required. If you have any question about the subpoena, feel free to call your advocate to have your questions answered. Do not ignore your subpoena. You will be notified if the case is cancelled.

If you fail to appear, you could be charged with contempt of court. Please do not think that a subpoena is issued to witnesses that are non-compliant. Subpoenas are issued to all witnesses in a trial and is not a reflection of your cooperation in the criminal court case.

7. What is expected of me as a witness?

Being a witness means that you have seen, heard, or know something about a crime that has been committed. In order to make a decision, a judge or jury needs to hear all of the evidence concerning the case. Your testimony is one way to present that information. You are asked to testify to only what you witnessed. Just tell the truth about what you witnessed, and you will have done what was expected of you.

8. Where do I go?

The trial will be held in the Xenia Municipal Court. The courtroom is located on the second floor of the City Hall building. When you get off the elevator, report to the windows in the lobby and tell the clerk that you are here to meet with a victim advocate. The address of the court is:
101 N Detroit Street
Xenia, OH 45385

(The trial will be held in the same building as the arraignment and the pre-trial.)

9. Do I have to bring anything along?

If there are no specific instructions on your subpoena or from the Prosecutors’ Office or the Victim Assistance Program, it is not necessary to bring anything. It is okay if you want to bring a book, homework, etc., to keep yourself occupied when you are not in the courtroom. It is difficult to estimate how long everything will take, so it is better to be prepared.

10. Who will be asking me questions during the trial?

The prosecutor(s) will ask you questions first. The defense attorney(s) will then ask you questions after the prosecutor is finished.

11. What will happen when the defense attorney questions me during the trial?

This is called cross-examination. Try not to worry, it is probably going to be nothing like what you have seen on television. The defense attorney can only ask you questions concerning things that the prosecutor has already asked you about. The defense attorney may try to confuse you by asking you questions quickly, or in a confusing way. Don’t panic! If you don’t understand what the attorney is asking you, it is perfectly fine for you to ask him/her to slow down, to repeat a question, or to explain what he/she is asking. Everything will go smoothly as long as you remember these few helpful hints.

12. Why are there delays in holding the trial?

The defendant’s attorney may ask for more time to prepare the case, or to locate important witnesses. Trials are sometimes delayed because the judge or one of the attorneys has a schedule conflict with the proposed court date. Some delays arise at the last minute, but every effort is made to notify victims and witnesses and save them unnecessary trips to court.

13. How long will the trial take?

It is very difficult to estimate how long a criminal trial could run because every case is different. The trial could take anywhere from an hour or two to an entire day. It is best to prepare and make the plans necessary to spend a full day in court. It always best to over estimate than under estimate.

14. What should I wear?

Court isn’t a formal occasion, but you should dress nicely. Shorts and tank tops are not appropriate for the courtroom. Dress nicely and conservative if possible. Something that you would wear for a special occasion or to church would also be appropriate.

15. What is a Victim Impact Statement?

A victim impact statement is a statement made to the court after a person has been found guilty, and before the imposition of a sentence. A victim impact statement is a statement made in court and in front of the Judge concerning how the crime has affected you physically and/or emotionally, how the crime has affected your family, what type of sentence the defendant should receive, and can include issues such as lost wages, medical damages, and/or property loss. Your statement can be made in person in front of the Judge, in written form handed to the court, or by your victim advocate on your behalf.

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1. Can I apply online?

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2. Do I have to license my pets?

Answer here.

3. Where can I sign up for utilities?

Answer here

4. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

5. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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1. Why did the City undertake this project?

First and most importantly: Safety.

Pedestrian fatalities in traffic accidents are rising nationwide. According to the Governors' Highway Safety Association, the number of pedestrian fatalities increased by 27% from 2007 to 2016, while all other traffic deaths decreased by 14%. Pedestrian deaths as a proportion of total traffic accident deaths increased from 11% in 2007 to 16% in 2016.

What can be done about this? Aside from slowing down and putting down our phones when we are driving, we can design our roadways to be safer for pedestrians, cyclists AND cars with safer intersections, pedestrian crossings, and dedicated spaces for cyclists. In pedestrian- and bike-intensive areas we can design roadways to SLOW DOWN traffic. A pedestrian is about 3.5 to 5.5 times more likely to be killed by a 40 m.p.h. car as compared with a 30 m.p.h. car.

What does this mean for Xenia? With a confluence of four bike paths, two state highways, and dense development, downtown Xenia is a pedestrian, bike and car-intensive area. Our existing infrastructure does not effectively balance the safety needs of these various modes of travel. Below are specific problem areas that existed prior to the Downtown Safety Project:

• West Main Street between Church St. and Dayton Ave.: Too many private driveways and an unsafe pedestrian/bike crossing at Creekside Trail. Classified by MVRPC as a repeated high-crash location and ranks #31 out of the 100 most crash-prone road segments in the Miami Valley.
• Traffic signals at West St./W. Main St. and King St./W. Main St. are too close to other signalized intersections.
• Automobile crashes at N. Detroit St./Church St. intersection due to ineffective design.
• Unsafe pedestrian crossing at the N. Detroit St./Market St. intersection with inadequate signal.
• Lack of dedicated bike facilities on Detroit St. between Church and 3rd Streets, the only segment of the 80-mile-long Little Miami Scenic Trail that lacks dedicated bike facilities.
• Unsafe pedestrian/bike crossing at the Home Ave./S. Detroit St. intersection, across from Xenia Station.
• Excessive roadway width throughout downtown lends to anti-pedestrian environment.

Second, Xenia citizens asked for it.

In 2013 the City finished a lengthy process of reaching out to the community and seeking input from citizens on how the City should grow, improve, and change. This process culminated in X-Plan, a set of priorities and plans for the City's future. One of these priorities was to create a vibrant, bustling downtown that is safer and more inviting for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists. Of specific interest to citizens in this process was the need to improve bike path connectivity to and through downtown. By making our downtown safer and more inviting for a diverse range of users, we create more opportunities for businesses to attract customers and thrive, and we create more reasons for people to live and visit downtown.

2. How did the Downtown Safety Project improve safety?

• Resurfacing and restriping of Detroit St. between Church St. and Home Ave., installing a 2-way protected bike lane between Church St. and 3rd St., with a 3-ft. buffer and physical barrier protecting cyclists from motorists.
• Expanded median on W. Main St. at Creekside Trail crossing to limit turning movements and reduce vehicular accidents. Median and improved warning signals at this location will also improve the safety of pedestrians/cyclists crossing W. Main St. 
• Consolidation of West/King signals into one signal at Galloway St./W. Main St. to improve traffic flow and prevent intersection blockage due to existing signals being too close to other signals.
• Reconfiguration of W. Church St./N. Detroit St. intersection to change angle of approach for southbound right turns, and eliminate the "5th leg" approach to Detroit Blvd., improving vehicular safety.
• Relocate Market/Detroit pedestrian crossing to safer south side of intersection, install new red-flashing overhead pedestrian hybrid beacon to better alert approaching motorists.
• Relocate Home/Detroit bike/pedestrian crossing to Hill St./Detroit St. with new RRFB signal, protective median and new bike path directly connecting Ohio-to-Erie Trail to bike hub.
• Reduce southbound Detroit St. through lanes from 2 to 1 to to ease pedestrian crossings and discourage speeding without causing traffic delays.

3. How much did this project cost? Why is the City spending money on this instead of fixing other City streets?

The City did not undertake this project INSTEAD OF other street projects. In fact, the City has ACCELERATED its citywide street rehabilitation program in recent years, and the Downtown Safety Project did not significantly impact this program. 

How?

The Downtown Safety Project is primarily grant-funded. The City received $1.35 million federal/state grants, covering 92% of the project cost. The City agreed to contribute $124,720 as a one-time expenditure. 

Compare this to the $6.8 million in City dollars that have been spent citywide on rehabilitation of 72 lane-miles of streets since 2011. Furthermore, in 2018 alone the City has committed $1.2 million to citywide street repairs during 2018. These numbers do not include federal/state grants that the City has received for street rehabilitation, which can often more than double the total amount spent on Xenia streets in a given year. Click here for more information about the City's annual street program. 

4. How does the protected bike lane work?

The two-way protected bike lane on Detroit St. essentially acts like a bike path next to the road, similar to what exists at the intersections of N. Detroit St. with Weaver St. and Kinsey Rd. It is also similar to a crosswalk. With the exception of the intersection of Detroit/Main, cyclists should treat all crosswalks the same way that pedestrians do: Cross on the "walk" signal after looking both ways and ensuring that traffic is stopped. Vehicles at these locations should always take care to ensure there are no pedestrians or bikes in the crosswalk.

At the Detroit/Main intersection, there is actually a bike signal on the west leg of the intersection, where the protected bike path crosses Main St. This signal, which is actuated by bikes approaching the intersection or by pressing a button, tells cyclists when it is safe to cross. At the same time, when the bike signal is green, all Main St. traffic and all southbound right and northbound left turning Detroit Street traffic is given a red light. This is an added measure that prevents vehicles from entering the crosswalk when cyclists are crossing.

5. Those new parking spaces on Detroit Street are unusual. Aren't they too small?

The new parking spaces on the southbound side of Detroit Street between Church St. and Third St. are indeed unique, because instead of being against a curb they are against a white stripe. There is a striped buffer between the parking spaces and the bike lane, which allows enough space for vehicle passengers to open their doors without hitting a cyclist in the bike lane. Passengers walk across the bike lane to reach the sidewalk.

The new spaces may look different, but they are actually the same size (7 ft. wide, 20 ft. long) as the old parking spaces that existed on Detroit St. prior to the Downtown Safety Project, and existing on-street parking spaces on Main St. In fact, on-street parking is safer now because the southbound travel lane is 1-2 feet wider than the old travel lanes. This gives drivers and passengers more room to open their doors and avoid oncoming traffic.

6. What's the deal with the northbound curb lane on Detroit St.? Is that for parking or driving?

In an effort to balance all users of a limited amount of space, the City has designated the northbound curb lane (east side of Detroit St.) between 2nd St. and Market St. as both a parking and a travel lane. Parking is permitted in this lane at all hours except 4:00 to 6:00 PM, which are the peak travel hours. This is intended to leave both lanes open to traffic during times in which the largest amount of traffic is trying to get through downtown Xenia. Traffic studies prior to the project showed that northbound traffic during this time period would face significant delays with only one northbound through lane.

7. Why did the City reduce the southbound travel lanes on Detroit St.?

Before this project, there were two southbound through lanes on Detroit St. from Church St. to approximately Hill St. A traffic study completed prior to this project showed that, even at peak travel times, reducing the number of southbound through lanes to one would not cause noticeable traffic delays. This is likely due to two factors: (1) Much of the traffic headed from southbound Detroit St. to westbound Main St. turns west on W. Church St., avoiding the widest section of Detroit St. altogether, and (2) US-68 is only two to three lanes wide throughout the majority of its length in Xenia. Many motorists using the old extra southbound lane were using it as a right turn lane at intersections. 

Removing one of the southbound through lanes allowed the City to (1) have sufficient space for the protected bike lane, (2) have sufficient space to keep most on-street parking, which is a priority for downtown businesses, and (3) reduce the width of moving traffic that pedestrians must cross.

It is important to point out that traffic passing through downtown Xenia is not the only user of the Detroit Street right of way. Ultimately, the right-of-way must also serve vehicles parking in downtown Xenia, cyclists visiting or traversing downtown via the Little Miami Scenic Trail, and pedestrians walking through downtown. This is a delicate balance that, before completion of this project, was tilted toward traffic passing through downtown. 

8. What does the green pavement mean?

The green-painted crosswalks are simply intended to notify drivers that these crosswalks are part of a bike path, and to direct cyclists where they should cross a street. The legal implication of a green-painted crosswalk is no different than that of a white-painted crosswalk.

9. Aren't the angled parking spaces on S. Detroit St. near Third St. pointed the wrong direction?

No. These are designed as back-in angled parking spaces. Drivers pull ahead of the space and back in at an angle. To exit the parking space, drivers pull ahead into the travel lane. This is considered to be the safest and most efficient form of on-street parking because it does not require multi-step maneuvers (like parallel parking spaces) and it does not require drivers to back up into a travel lane without the ability to see oncoming traffic (like head-in angled parking). These spaces were added in order to take advantage of previously unused pavement space and to benefit downtown businesses, visitors and residents.

10. Why did the City change the southbound right turn lane on Detroit St. at Church St.? Trucks are having trouble with it.

The City agreed to change the angle at which the southbound right turn lane on N. Detroit St. approaches Church St., because under the previous alignment, motorists were having difficulty seeing oncoming traffic from Church St. (or northbound Detroit St. traffic turning left), resulting in crashes. The new configuration makes this movement safer for motorists, although it does make it more difficult for large semi trucks to make the turn. West Church Street is not intended to be a truck route, so truckers have the alternative of using the Detroit/Main intersection, which provides much more space for turning movements. The City will continue to monitor the situation and install signage on N. Detroit St. if necessary.

11. How do the new pedestrian crossings work on Detroit St. at Market St. and Hill St., and the Creekside Trail crossing on W. Main St.?

A new median and crosswalk has been installed at the intersection of S. Detroit St. and Hill St., allowing users of the Prairie Grass Trail (Ohio-to-Erie Trail) to cross Detroit St. and proceed directly up the hill to Xenia Station. Additionally, an existing median has been expanded to enhance a crosswalk where the Creekside Trail crosses West Main Street. 

At both of these locations, new signage and rapidly flashing yellow lights have been added. Pedestrians and cyclists can push a button to activate these lights to warn drivers that they are crossing the street. The purpose of the lights and signage is to get drivers' attention and warn them that pedestrians or cyclists are attempting to cross the street. Drivers are not required by law to stop for these lights, but they are required to yield to pedestrians that are in the crosswalk. So pedestrians/cyclists should look both ways even when they activate these signals, to ensure the roadway is clear or that traffic is stopped. Drivers should slow down when they see these lights flashing and look for pedestrians/cyclists, and then stop to allow any pedestrians/cyclists to cross.   

The new crosswalk at the intersection of N. Detroit St. and Market St. is a little different. Here pedestrians can press a button that activates an overhead yellow light, followed by a red light. The yellow light is a warning, and the red light legally requires vehicles to stop, just like a traffic signal. Pedestrians can then cross the street. The red light will then automatically turn off, at which point  drivers are once again permitted to drive through the intersection.

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1. What is Municipal Aggregation?

Municipal aggregation is a process whereby an entire community moves to an alternate supplier as a group. One possible advantage of aggregation is that each individual customer does not have to understand the variety of offers that are available from a wide range of suppliers. The municipality, often with the assistance of a consultant, can do much of that research on behalf of the community and select the offer that they believe reflects the best value.

2. Why would a municipality pursue municipal aggregation?

Communities are pursuing aggregation because they may be able to help their residents and eligible small businesses save money by creating a combined customer group that has more buying power than individual residents.

3. What action must I take now that my community has approved an aggregation program and I want to join the program?

Since our community has approved an aggregation program, you do not need to take any action in order to participate and get the negotiated supply price, unless you have previously signed up with an alternative supplier, or have previously opted out of the program.

4. What if I do not want to join the aggregation program?

You will have the opportunity to opt-out of the program if you decide not to participate. The supllier will send opt-out notices to all residents and eligible small businesses within our community. You will need to fill out and return the opt-out notice in order to be excluded.

5. Who do I call if my power goes out?

You should continue to call your local utility company.

6. Who do I contact for more information on municipal aggregation?

You can contact the City's energy consultant Palmer Energy at 419-491-1040, or call the Utility Billing Office at 937-376-7242 or visit the following website:  

www.energychoice.ohio.gov

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1. Do Xenia residents pay the highest income tax rates in the State of Ohio and, therefore, should not have to pay for services they are already being taxed for?

As noted below, 82 Ohio municipalities have income rates equal to or higher than the City of Xenia. As noted in other Q and A's in this section, the income tax revenue does not cover all the operational expenses for these services. The EMS Billing change was developed to keep from adding any additional tax burden to citizens. Some cities request an income tax increase and add personnel to address the rising call volume. Instead, the City of Xenia is trying to reduce the call volume (especially calls that are not emergencies) to avoid adding additional personnel and increasing taxes. For your information, the list of Ohio cities that have Income Tax Rates equal to or higher than Xenia as of 2022 according to Ohio.gov (click here) are as follows:

AKRON BARBERTON BEDFORD BEXLEY BROOKLYN BROOKLYN HEIGHTS CAMPBELL CANTON CENTERVILLE CIRCLEVILLE CLEVELAND CLEVELAND HEIGHTS COLUMBUS CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS DAYTON ELYRIA EUCLID GAHANNA GRANDVIEW HEIGHTS HIGHLAND HILLS HILLIARD HIRAM HOLLAND HUBER HEIGHTS KENT KETTERING LAKEMORE LORAIN MACEDONIA MAPLE HEIGHTS MIAMISBURG MOGADORE MORAINE MUNROE FALLS

NEW BOSTON NORTH RANDALL OAKWOOD (Cuyahoga Co.) OAKWOOD (Montgomery Co.) OBERLIN OBETZ OREGON PARMA PARMA HEIGHTS PORTSMOUTH RAVENNA REYNOLDSBURG RICHMOND HEIGHTS RIVERSIDE ROSSFORD SEVEN HILLS SHAKER HEIGHTS SPRINGFIELD TALLMADGE TOLEDO TROTWOOD TWINSBURG UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS UPPER ARLINGTON WALTON HILLS WARREN WARRENSVILLE HEIGHTS WEST CARROLLTON WHITEHALL WOODLAWN WOODMERE WORTHINGTON YOUNGSTOWN

2. Will I be charged EMS transport charges between $519 to $1,038 depending on services plus $12.98 per mile?

While the City of Xenia EMS Billing has a set rate, the collection of the funds will be based on what your insurance allows for billing.  The adjusted rate will be what your insurance will be billed.  If you have a copay through your insurance, you will be responsible for the copay. The City will only collect on the copay you would owe. If you have a deductible, you will be responsible for the unmet portion of your deductible at the time of billing. If you are self-pay, you will be responsible for the Medicare adjusted amount. Financial hardship requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis as directed in the policy.

For example: If you are billed $1,038 for a transport and your insurance adjusted rate is $550 and you have a $50 copay for transports, your insurance will pay $500 and you will owe $50. No additional amount will be billed or collected on.  This is the same principle that you have when you visit your Doctor or urgent care.

3. Was the purpose of the 2010 income tax increase to prevent charging residents service fees?

The .5% income tax increase put in place in 2010 was necessary to maintain Citywide services at that time and to provide funding for capital improvement projects. Half of the increase (.25% income tax) was to help maintain Public Safety services. Public Safety Services include Police, Fire/EMS, and Dispatch. Since 2010, the number of EMS calls annually has increased from 3,470 in 2010 to 6,054 in 2022. Since 2010, the State of Ohio has significantly reduced the amount of local government funds received by the City of Xenia.

4. Does the City's income tax revenue support Fire and EMS services?

The City’s Income Tax revenue provides approximately $6 million annually into the Police and Fire (including dispatch, EMS) Fund. The Police and Fire fund has about $12 million in operational expenses annually to maintain police and fire operations at current levels. (This excludes fleet and capital purchases.) The difference is made up through a transfer from the General Fund, EMS Billing revenue, Contractual Services, Grants, and other miscellaneous revenues, which helps to maintain Police and Fire services as required by law.

The City is not required to provide Ambulance or EMS Services but chooses to offer these services to residents. Residents who utilize the service are expected to pay for the services they receive (similar to an Emergency Room Visit).

5. Is the City addressing facilities, such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities, that are abusing the system to try and correct the problem?

Yes. The City has met with and continues to meet with facilities who utilize EMS services. We are seeing a growing issue with transports from nursing homes/assisted living facilities.  While we understand there are emergency transports from these facilities, we have seen a drastic increase from these facilities for non-emergency transports.  The City Manager has developed a task force to come up with a plan to meet with these facilities to work with them and try to reduce the call volume.  Part of this policy change includes charging fees to facilities when it is determined to be a non-emergency call. We have had meetings with many facilities and will continue to meet with them to address the problem.

6. Does the City collect fees from people who are abusing the system who are on Medicaid?

Yes. The City will collect fees for all EMS services used.  While we have some that are larger users of the EMS system, they will be billed for each transport.

7. Will the City start charging for fire calls?

No. The City is required to provide fire services and, therefore, is not able to charge residents to put out fires. However, the City will charge fees for chemical spills and multiple false fire alarms.

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1. WHAT IS GOVERNMENTAL AGGREGATION?

Under governmental aggregation, local officials can act on behalf of the community to negotiate a competitively priced natural gas rate from a certified natural gas supplier.

2. HOW IS MY COMMUNITY ABLE TO CHOOSE A NATURAL GAS SUPPLIER ON BEHALF OF RESIDENTS? WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

Residents of the community voted to give elected officials the ability to negotiate a natural gas supplier contract on behalf of the community. If you are a current participant in the aggregation program, you will receive notice of the new program rate, term, and conditions and will continue to be eligible. Newly eligible residents or businesses must receive an opt-out notice from Volunteer Energy and meet the following requirements:

1. You must not already be enrolled with a natural gas supplier on your own.
2. Your service address must be located within the City of Xenia limits.
3. You must be a residential or small commercial natural gas user.

3. WHAT DOES 'OPT OUT' MEAN?

“Opt-Out” means that you choose not to participate in the Aggregation Program. You can opt-out by returning the opt-out form included in your mailer, or by calling the phone number provided. If you opt-out, you will not be enrolled as a natural gas customer with Volunteer Energy and will not receive your community’s exclusive natural gas rate.

4. WHAT HAPPENS IF I DO NOT SEND IN THE 'OPT OUT' FORM?

If you do not return the opt-out form or call the phone number by the designated deadline, you be will automatically included in the Aggregation Program and receive the negotiated rate for natural gas from Volunteer Energy.

As a program participant, you will continue to receive your billing from CenterPoint Energy (Vectren). Volunteer Energy will simply be listed on the bill as your natural gas supplier along with your aggregation program exclusive rate.

5. ARE THERE FEES TO ENROLL OR CANCEL?

Enrollment in the program is free for eligible participants. Once enrolled in the program, you can cancel your agreement at any time without any fee.

6. CAN I JOIN THE PROGRAM AFTER THE INITIAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD?

Yes. The community has secured the same natural gas supply rate, terms and conditions for eligible customers who wish to join its Aggregation Program after the initial enrollment period. This includes customers who move into the community, customers who were with another supplier and wish to switch into the program, or customers who initially opted-out and want to join at a later date.

7. WHAT IF I'M WITH ANOTHER SUPPLIER AND I WANT TO JOIN THE AGGREGATION PROGRAM?

If you recently signed up with a natural gas supplier or if you believe you are on an older contract, carefully review the terms and conditions of that agreement before proceeding, as your ability to terminate early with that supplier may be restricted and could include cancellation fees.

8. WHAT HAPPENS AT THE END OF THE TERM?

At the end of the term, the community will rebid the term and price on behalf of residents. You will be notified of the outcome by the community and/or supplier of the new term.

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1. Where are all the other FAQs for the City of Xenia?

Here! Follow this link to see all the FAQs for our city.

2. Where is the Zoning Department located?

The Zoning Department is located in the City Administration Building, 107 E. Main Street, Xenia, Ohio 45385.

3. Where can I dispose of household hazardous waste?

The Greene County Environmental Services Division, located at 2145 Greene Way Blvd. in Xenia, Oh., hosts a monthly collection event. Click on the link provided to be taken to their website for more information. Greene Co - Special Monthly Collection Event Dates

4. How do I establish utility service in my new home?

Click on the link provided for more information on starting or stopping utility service. You may also contact our Utility Department at 937-376-7242. Utility Department - Start/Stop Service

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1. Can I get a copy of a Public Meeting?

Yes, the City can make DVDs for the Public Meetings listed above. For a DVD copy of a Public Meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 937-376-7235. There is a $3 charge per copy. Council Meetings for the current year to date, and previous 2 years are available on DVD upon request.

2. Can my business or non-profit post a message on the Channel 5 bulletin board?

The City allows certain businesses or non-profit public service announcements that are deemed beneficial to the community. Keep in mind, the Government Channel is not the same as a "Public Access" Channel 6. Departments use the bulletin board to post messages regarding things like community emergencies, public meeting schedules, road construction detours, water/sewer work. You will also find information on programs offered by all city departments, announcements on government related events and activities, as well as announcements from federal and state agencies.

Posting of messages have to meet the requirements of the City Government Channel Policy and by filling out the Bulletin Board Request form attached at the end of the Policy. Access the policy and download the request form (PDF).

3. What is Public, Educational, Government (PEG) television and how did it come about?

As part of the State of Ohio video licensing agreement with the local cable provider, one of the things that the community can insist upon getting is channel space for local public, education and government television as well as licensing fees to operate them. This is considered to be a payment of sorts for the right-of-way (ROW) that the cable company uses when it installs the cable lines throughout the community.

In Xenia, our Time Warner PEG Channels are: Channel 5 - Government and Channel 21 - Educational (Schools). For ATT UVerse: Channel 99 then choose Xenia Government Channel from a listing of several Miami Valley cities.

The City also provides live streaming video broadcasting of Channel 5 and on-demand streaming video of past council meetings and special presentations.

4. What is streaming video?

Streaming video is content sent in compressed form over the Internet and displayed to the viewer in real time. With streaming video, a user does not have to wait to download a file to play it. Instead, the media is sent in a continuous stream of data and is played as it arrives. The user needs a player, which is a special program that encompasses and sends video data to the display and audio data to speakers. A player can be either an integral part of a browser or downloaded from the software maker's website.

The streaming video service was added at a very low cost to the City to help with community outreach to all Xenia residents and website visitors that do not subscribe to Time Warner Cable or other future cable systems (does not include satellite dish providers) but subscribe to High Speed Internet connections (Broadband).

5. What are streaming video requirements?

Our streaming video service requires:
OS: Windows 8, 7, XP, Vista, Mac OS X, or Linux
Player: Windows Media Player 9+ or other wmv compatible player ie: Quicktime with Flip for Mac plugin, VLC (recommended for Mac OS X), M Player, Media Player Classic
Bandwidth: T1, DSL, cable broadband or faster connection needed.

6. Where can I get additional information about the rules governing television and cable?

The official source is the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

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1. How much can I contribute to my Health Saving Account?

The IRS sets the Federal limit each year for contributions to Health Savings Accounts. Please contact the Human Resources Department (7273) or the Finance Department (7237) for the current contribution limits.

2. Does the Federal contribution limit include the City’s contribution?

Yes. Together, you and the City are eligible to make contributions up to but not exceeding the maximum Federal contribution limit.

3. When does the City deposit its contributions to my Health Savings Account?

The City splits its contribution in two payments, the first half is deposited around January 1 and the second half is deposited around July 1 of each year.

4. Can I get the City’s contribution before July 1?

The City will, in some circumstances, contribute funds to your Health Savings Account in advance. Please contact the Human Resources Department for information about the early funding option or review the specific details of the Policy 3.10 – Health Insurance (PDF)

5. What is the best way to make contributions to my Health Savings Account?

The best way to contribute to your Health Savings Account is by payroll deductions. Contributions made through payroll deductions are pre-tax, and allow the City to ensure the Federal limit is not exceeded.

6. Can I pay for my qualified medical expenses from another account and then reimburse myself with my Health Saving Account funds?

Yes as long as you have Health Saving Account funds available and you keep records to prove the withdraw from your Health Saving Account account was for a qualified medical expense. Please view the Qualified Medical Expenses (PDF).

7. Should I deposit funds directly into my Health Savings Account and then reimburse myself for qualified medical expenses?

No. Any contributions made outside of the payroll deduction process could jeopardize the timeliness of you receiving funding from the City. Please contact the Finance Department before depositing any funds directly to your Health Savings Account. Please view the Qualified Medical Expenses (PDF).

8. What should I do with a refund from my medical provider or insurance company?

Do not deposit the funds into your Health Savings Account until you consult with your financial institution. This is important to ensure the amount is coded by your financial institution as a reimbursement and not as a deposit for contribution limit considerations. Ask your financial institution if they charge a fee for processing the deposit as a reimbursement.

9. Can I use my Health Savings Account funds for medical expenses (i.e. dental and vision) not covered under my health insurance plan?

Yes, so long as the IRS defines the expenses as being a Qualified Medical Expense (PDF).

10. If I use my Health Savings Account funds for medical expenses (i.e. dental and vision) not covered under my health insurance plan, does the amount apply to my health insurance plan deductible?

No. You can use the funds for other qualified medical expenses but the amount paid with your Health Savings Account funds does not apply to your health insurance deductible. Please view the Qualified Medical Expenses (PDF).

11. What happens to my Health Savings Account if I terminate employment with the City?

The account and the funds in the account belong to you. However the City will not make any additional contributions after your termination date.

12. Can I use my Health Savings Account funds for any reason other than qualified medical expenses?

If you use your Health Savings Account funds for any purpose other than qualified medical expenses you may be subject to tax penalties. Please view the Qualified Medical Expenses (PDF).

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1. So what does a listing on the National Register for Historic Places do for me?

Having your historic property listed on the National Register for Historic Places, either individually or as a part of a larger district, is not intrinsically a positive or negative. However, a growing number of buyers of commercial and residential properties seek authentic older homes that are inventoried and publicly listed because it sends a clear signal that the building or site is “worthy of preservation.” Potential buyers often are willing to pay a premium for properties that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. One reason being that it lends to the character and the “penache” of the property. Another reason is that Federal and State Historic Tax Credits are available ONLY to properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This can amount to big savings to owners seeking to rehabilitate their properties. Read more about the National Park Service/U.S. Department of the Interior, National Register of Historic Places. https://www.nps.gov/Nr/
Read about Federal historic tax credits for rehabilitation https://www.nps.gov/TPS/tax-incentives.htm
Read about the State of Ohio’s Historic Preservation Tax Credit https://development.ohio.gov/cs/cs_ohptc.htm
National Register of Historic Places

2. Does having my property listed on the National Register for Historic Places create restrictions and costs on me to redevelop?

Being listed on the National Register of Historic Places does NOT create additional restrictions UNLESS the owner is obtaining federally funded (or state funded) grants or loans to make repairs on the building. Owners that use private funding can do pretty much anything they want to do to their property, including demolition! On the plus side, having a property or a district on the National Register of Historic Properties DOES provide a certain “cache” or value to potential buyers, It also allows owners of such buildings to be eligible for historic tax credits at both the state and federal level. Historic tax credits, when taken together, may defray up to 45% of a structures rehab expenses in the form of a tax credit.

To learn more: Contact the Greene County Historic District The Greene County Historic District

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1. UNCLAIMED MONIES

In accordance with Section 1903.31(G) of the Ohio Revised Code, the following monies will be paid into the General Fund of the City of Xenia, Ohio if not claimed by March 31, 2020. This list represents checks issued by the Civil Division of The Xenia Municipal Court that have not been claimed. This list represents checks issued by the Criminal Division of The Xenia Municipal Court that have not been claimed.

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1. What is neXtPlan?

neXtPlan is an update of Xenia’s comprehensive plan - a community-based vision for future development and a road map of how to achieve the vision. It helps City leaders and others in the community make development-related decisions and take actions that benefit Xenia citizens now and in the future.

The plan includes the following key components: Analysis of existing community conditions and trends. An extensive public input process that allows citizens to help create/review the plan. Recommendations and strategies for future development and improvement in land use, housing, economic development, mobility, utilities, public safety, parks and recreation. 

2. Why does Xenia need neXtPlan?

neXtPlan, or Xenia's comprehensive plan, helps Xenia become proactive. It identifies activities that public officials and private partners can undertake to proactively improve our community. It markets our community’s assets/opportunities both internally and externally.

The plan empowers citizens by allowing them to determine the community’s future – not just City staff or outside influences. It also educates the public and promotes their involvement in the City’s future. It builds consensus among citizens/businesses/leaders around a vision, helping to ensure that the private and public sectors are “rowing in the same direction.”

The comprehensive plan can leverage resources by helping the City prioritize actions and expenditures and target them strategically, maximizing bang for the buck. It also helps to identify funding sources (e.g. grants) and partnerships, and improves the City’s ability to pursue them.

This plan can guide decisions by providing detailed information that helps leaders anticipate community needs and expectations (short-term and long-term) when making funding or policy decisions. It establishes a rational, defensible basis for zoning decisions. Additionally, the plan helps developers/ businesses/property owners identify opportunities and gauge the success of pursuing them.

3. Do Xenia citizens have a voice in neXtPlan?

Absolutely! In fact, neXtPlan is citizen-driven. 

First, a diverse group of residents and community leaders (called "neXTeam") has been convened to advise City staff on community involvement and issues to address. 

Second, 477 Xenia residents participated in an online opinion survey in 2022-2023 to help identify the direction of neXtPlan. Check out the Xplore Report to see the responses plus other information.

Third, there are a whole series of meetings, activities at community events, and additional online participation opportunities planned, to engage Xenians in the creation of neXtPlan. Click here to see the schedule of neXtPlan events.  This page will be continually updated as event dates/locations are finalized.

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1. What is Play Xenia?

Play Xenia is a recreation action plan for Xenia. It starts with the community goals and strategies expressed in X-Plan and identifies more detailed needs and action steps for issues such as park improvements, a potential recreation center, recreation programs, recreation-oriented economic development and partnerships with non-city entities.

Play Xenia includes the following key components:
- Recreation needs assessment
- Extensive public input that includes surveys, online participation, community meetings and focus groups
- Direct involvement of key recreation stakeholders, including policy makers, facility owners, business owners and program/league managers
- An action plan that includes recommendations and prioritization/phasing for park improvements, potential joint-use facilities, and program enhancement/coordination

View documents and more information on the Play Xenia web page.

2. Why does Xenia need another plan?

X-Plan identified a range of recreation needs and potential initiatives. It also recommended that the City develop a Parks and Recreation Master Plan in order to coordinate all of these initiatives. Play Xenia will serve as the City's new Parks and Recreation Master Plan.

Play Xenia is not a comprehensive, multi-topic vision plan like X-Plan. Nor is it a repetition if any portion of X-Plan. It's a logical next step for recreation - now that we have identified general priorities and direction, it's time to develop a work plan that identifies and delegates tasks, develops partnerships and determines funding sources/availability and cost estimates.

3. Doesn’t Xenia already have a recreation plan?

Not a current or relevant one. Xenia developed a Comprehensive Recreation Plan in 1997. The plan, although well-done, is now outdated and it focuses mainly on parks. Play Xenia will be based on current and future recreation needs and will focus not just on parks, but on recreation facilities and programming.

4. Did citizens have a say in Play Xenia?

Absolutely! Like X-Plan, Play Xenia is citizen-driven. The public involvement process included a community-wide online and mailed survey, neighborhood-level public meetings, online discussions, and an open-house meeting.

A Policy Committee consisting of key policy makers, facility owners and funding sources helped to guide the process, Focus Group meetings brought together recreation program/league managers along with those involved in arts/cultural activities and commercial recreation. Children participated via a special survey that was administered in elementary, middle and high school classes.

5. What has come out of the Play Xenia process?

This process has provided a short-term park improvement plans to be implemented in 2015-16, as well as a plan for longer-term improvements as funding becomes available, a comprehensive neighborhood and parks revitalization process for the East End neighborhood, a multi-agency initiative to explore development of a health, education and recreation facility in Xenia and a plan for improved promotion and coordination of recreation programming by the City.

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1. How do I obtain a copy of a police report?

A copy of accident reports and criminal investigation reports can be picked up in the Police Records Division located in the basement of the Justice Center (Former City Hall) located 101 North Detroit Street. Police reports are not available until after 12:00 p.m. on the following business day. However, if a report is still under investigation, the report is not releasable.

2. Is there a cost for obtaining a police report?

A copy of reports can be obtained at the records division at 101 North Detroit St or a request via regular first-class mail. A self-addressed stamped envelope must be sent with your request.

There is a $0.07 per page charge for a report; however, we waive the fee for a request involving 10 pages or less.

Additonally, Accident reports only are available online via the link. There is a fee of $3.00 or you can obtain a free copy at the records division.

Online Accident Reports

3. Do you provide records checks?

The Xenia Police Division Records Unit no longer provides background checks.

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1. Who can get a Civil Protection Order?

You can apply for a CPO if you are related to the Respondent by blood or marriage and have lived with respondent at any time, if you are living with or have lived with the Respondent during the past 5 years, if you used to be married to the Respondent or you have a child with the Respondent, whether or not you ever married or lived together.

You can also get a CPO for any member of your household.

You may be able to get a CPO if you have been dating the Respondent; if you share family or financial responsibilities with the Respondent, and you have an intimate relationship with Respondent.

If you are in this situation, you may need legal assistance or want to pursue civil stalking protection orders. Contact an attorney or Ohio State Legal Services at 800-589-5888.

Remember that a CPO has limits. If you suspect that the Respondent will not obey the terms of a CPO, contact your local domestic violence program or the Ohio Domestic Violence Network at 800-934-9840.

2. Do I need an attorney to obtain a Civil Protection Order?

No, but you are often better off having legal representation in your CPO proceeding. Having an attorney represent you is especially helpful when your case involves contested custody and visitation and/or when an attorney represents the Respondent. If you cannot afford an attorney, contact your local legal aid office, bar association, or Ohio State Legal Services at 800-589-5888 for information on low cost or free legal representation.

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1. Why do I need smoke detectors?

Most fire deaths happen at night, while people are asleep. This makes early fire detection and warning especially important. Contrary to popular belief, the smell of smoke may not wake a sleeping person. The poisonous gases and smoke produced by a fire can numb the senses and put you into a deeper sleep.

Inexpensive household smoke detectors sound an alarm, alerting you to a fire. By giving you time to escape, smoke detectors cut your risk of dying in a home fire nearly in half. Smoke detectors save so many lives that most states have laws requiring them in private homes.

2. How many smoke detectors do I need or are required?

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), minimum protection requires a smoke detector outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement. On floors without bedrooms, detectors should be installed in or near living areas such as dens, living rooms, or family rooms.

We strongly suggest smoke detectors be installed inside every bedroom; this is a code requirement for new homes but older homes may need additional smoke detectors added. For the hearing impaired, there are smoke detectors that flash a strobe light in addition to sounding an audible alarm.

For extra protection, NFPA suggests installing additional detectors in dining rooms, furnace rooms, utility rooms, and hallways. Smoke detectors are not recommended for kitchens, bathrooms, garages, or attics and other unheated spaces – where cooking fumes, steam, humidity and temperature changes might affect a detector's operation.

3. How do I choose a detector?

Dozens of brands of smoke detectors are for sale in hardware, department, and discount stores. Be sure that the smoke detector you buy bears the label of an independent testing laboratory, such as UL or FM. Please see the Choosing a Detector page for more information. Choosing a Detector Page

4. Why do I get false alarms?

A smoke detector false alarm can be initiated by small dirt particles, smoke from cooking, placement too close to fluorescent lighting fixtures, and dust or temperature extremes. These may be present in garages, kitchens and attics. Fresh paint fumes can get heavy enough to cause a false alarm, so air out freshly painted rooms. Steam from bathrooms can also cause a false alarm.

5. Where do I install smoke detectors?

Because smoke rises, mount detectors high on a wall or on the ceiling. Wall-mounted units should be hung 6 to 12 inches from the ceiling. A ceiling-mounted detector should be attached at least 6 inches from the nearest wall. In rooms with pitched ceilings, mount the detector at or near the ceiling's highest point. Do not place detectors within 6 inches of where the wall and ceiling meet, on either surface. This is a "dead air" space that gets little air circulation. Instructions for installation and placement should accompany the unit, and you should follow these instructions precisely.

6. How do I test the smoke detector?

All smoke detectors are required to have a test button installed on them; this test button checks all functions of the smoke detector. If your smoke detector does not have a test button, you should replace the unit with one that does. Test each unit at least once every 30 days. Testing Your Smoke Detector (JPG)

7. When do I replace the smoke detector battery?

Batteries weaken with age and must be checked and replaced at regular intervals (usually every 6 months). Battery powered units that are listed by UL or FM will generate a beeping sound (usually at night when you are trying to sleep) to indicate when the batteries need to be replaced. Remember having a detector with dead batteries is the same as having no detector at all. There are newer smoke detectors out there that have batteries that last 10 years.

8. When do I replace the smoke detector?

Studies show that untested smoke detectors lose about half of their dependability after a 5- to 7-year period. Smoke detectors should be replaced about every 8 to 10 years. Read the manufacturer's instructions as they usually have recommendations.

9. Do I clean my smoke detector?

Yes! Dust can damage your detector's sensitivity. Most units need to be cleaned at least once a year. Just use your vacuum cleaner to clean dust out of the unit. Read the manufacturer's instructions manual.

10. What do I do when the detector alarms?

Please see the When a Smoke Alarm Detects Fire page for detailed instructions. When a Smoke Alarm Detects Fire Page