The TREE CITY

Volume 24:1 – Spring 2019 Bulletin

What’s Inside... w Council Members (2) w Board & Commission Positions (3) w A Cure for the Common Cubicle (4) w Business, Community & Healthcare Expo and Taste of Kent (5) w Project Spotlight... SR 43 Traffic Improvements (6) w Town & Gown Relations (7) w Local Business Resources (8) w City of Kent Health Department News (9) w News from Utility Billing (10) w Spring Cleanup & Brush Collection 2019 (11-13) w Kent Sustainability Commission (14) w Yard Waste Transfer Site Information (16) w Kent Parks & Recreation Programs & Events (17-18) w KFD’s Fire & EMS Updates (20) w 2019 - The Year of the River! (20) w Main Street Kent Update (21) w Earth Day Seedling Give Away (22) w Income Tax Information (23)

Photo courtesy of Matt Keffer The TREE CITY Bulletin

Council Members Who To Call At The City of Kent... Emergency – Police, Fire, Ambulance ...... 9-1-1 Mayor & After Hours Non-Emergency Concerns ...... 330.673.7732 President of Council Building Division – Building Permits ...... 330.678.8107 Jerry T. Fiala Income Tax Division...... 330.678.8103 330.678.8007 Clerk of Council...... 330.678.8007 City Manager’s Office ...... 330.676.7500 Ward 1 Door-to-door solicitation, special event permits Garret Ferrara Community Development Department ...... 330.678.8108 330.678.0069 Economic development, housing rehab, zoning Ward 2 Engineering Division – Street and Sidewalk construction...... 330.678.8106 Jack Amrhein Fire Department - Non-Emergency ...... 330.673.8814 President Pro Tem Health Department...... 330.678.8109 330.678.9749 Animal bites, birth/death certificates, food service inspections, pest control Parks & Recreation Department...... 330.673.8897 Ward 3 Police Department - Non-Emergency...... 330.673.7732 Robin Turner 24-hour calls, stray animals 330.221.8860 Police Department - Investigations ...... 330.673.7733 Ward 4 Police Department - Administration ...... 330.673.3221 John M. Kuhar Republic Services of Ohio Hauling, LLC - Residential Rubbish Removal...... 1.800.247.3644 330.678.5897 Recycling Center...... 330.678.8808 Service Department...... 330.678.8105 Ward 5 Yard Waste Transfer Site, signs, traffic lights, street maintenance, trees, Heidi L. Shaffer water/sewer problems 330.256.4346 Utility Billing – Water, sewer, stormwater and recycling bills ...... 330.678.8104

Ward 6 Trash Collection Reminder Tracy Wallach Please be reminded that City Ordinance 521.08 330.678.0540 states: Collection Time Period: Each container placed at the curb or alley, and each other item set out Council-at-Large for collection, shall be placed at the location no Michael DeLeone earlier than 7:00 pm of the day before collection, The City of Kent tests the siren system 330.678.0032 in the locality as established by the City’s Refuse twice per month: and Recycling Contractor. 1st Wednesday at 11:00 am Gwen Rosenberg rd Container Retrieval: The empty solid 3 Wednesday at 6:30 pm 440.665.4327 waste receptacles and recycle The tests run for 3 minutes each time. In the event of a real emergency, the Roger Sidoti storage containers shall be removed from the curbside by 7:00 pm the sirens will be set off 3 times for a total 330.678.3381 day collection has taken place. of 9 minutes. The Tree City Bulletin is published quarterly by the City of Kent, and is provided to inform residents and businesses regarding City programs and services. Questions or comments regarding the newsletter may be directed to the City Manager’s Office - 301 S. Depeyster - Kent, Ohio 44240 – 330.676.7500. Unless otherwise stated, all programs and services described in this publication are intended and provided for City of Kent residents only. Designed by LMS Creative Communications, Ltd. This publication is printed on recycled paper.

Tree City Bulletin 2 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin

Applications Are Now Being Accepted Through MARCH 26, 2019 at NOON FOR MORE INFORMATION AND AN APPLICATION, CONTACT: CLERK OF COUNCIL 330.676.7555 - OR - [email protected] Interviews will be scheduled by the Clerk for April 3, 2019 at 7:00 pm during Council Committee Meetings

BOARD OF FAIR HOUSING STORMWATER DISTRICT BUILDING APPEALS BOARD REVIEW AND APPEALS BOARD Volunteer. Four (4) vacancies. One (1) vacancy Volunteer. Two (2) vacancies. Must be elector Volunteer. One (1) Vacancy. The Board will for a General Contractor and Three (3) vacancies of the City. May not hold any elected public hear appeals regarding disputes brought by for Alternates. office at municipal, county, state or federal level owners and non-owners concerning TERM: Three (3) year term commencing and shall not be employed by the City, but may application of the City’s Stormwater Utility immediately through December 31, 2022. be employed by the County, State and Federal Chapter and will have the authority to make government. Members hear complaints on adjustments to provide relief due to unique BOARD OF alleged violations and/or unlawful housing circumstances which reduce the burden of ZONING APPEALS practices. operating, constructing, repairing and TERM: One (1) three (3) year term maintaining the Stormwater utility system. Volunteer. One (1) Vacancy. Must be elector of commencing May 2, 2019 through December TERM: Two-year term commencing the City. Members of the Board of Zoning 31, 2022 and One (1) - three (3) year term immediately through December 31, 2020. Appeals shall hear and determine all appeals; commencing July 24, 2019 through December grant or recommend variances; and have the 31, 2022. SUSTAINABILITY power to hear and decide any question COMMISSION involving the interpretation of any provision of PARKING ACTION the Zoning Ordinance. Members will also hear COMMITTEE Volunteer. One (1) vacancy. Must be a appeals for the Exterior Maintenance Code. resident of the City and possess some technical TERM: One (1) three-year term commencing Volunteer. Two (2) vacancies. Must be elector knowledge and/or strong understanding of on February 6, 2019 through December 31, of the City. Responsible for administering the environmental issues. The Commission is 2022. policy recommendations of the Parking responsible for the examination of the current Management Planning Committee. Composed and proposed policies and programs and shall DESIGN AND of the City of Kent Community Development make evaluations on their environmental PRESERVATION COMMITTEE Director; City of Kent Safety Director; City of impact as well as their effect on the livability Kent Service Director; a representative from and sustainability of the community. Volunteer. One (1) Vacancy. Must be elector of the Kent Area Chamber of Commerce; and TERM: One (1) three-year term commencing the City. Members shall have, to the highest five (5) members of the Business Community, July 20, 2019 through December 31, 2022. appointed based on : 1. Geographic Basis (e.g.: extent possible, a demonstrated knowledge, NOTE: By statutory definition, "elector" means experience, or interest in architecture and/or East and West Main Streets, North and South anyone of voting age and a resident of the City. historic preservation. Members must possess a Water Streets, Franklin Avenue, side streets…) The Kent City Charter Section 8.01 mandates determination to work for the overall and 2. Land Use Basis (e.g.: Church, service, that all appointments to City Boards and improvement of the quality of the physical retail, housing and nightclub representation…) Commissions shall be electors of the City, with the exception of the Board of Building Appeals. environment of the City. TERM: One (1) unexpired term commencing TERM: Three (3) year term commencing July immediately through December 31, 2019 and 20, 2019 through December 31, 2022. One (1) - five (5) year term commencing immediately through December 31, 2022. EQUALIZATION PORTAGE AREA REGIONAL ASSESSMENT BOARD TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY Volunteer. Twelve (12) Vacancies. Must be (P.A.R.T.A.) elector of the City as well as a property owner. Members of the Board shall hear objections to Volunteer. One (1) vacancy. Must be electors estimated special assessments for particular of the City for a period of at least three years projects in the City. Boards for specific projects prior to appointment. PARTA serves Portage shall be selected, by lot, from the Assessment County and works to provide transportation Equalization Board. systems for the purpose of scheduled mass TERM: Three (3) years commencing movement of passengers. immediately. TERM: Three years commencing July 1,2019. Tree City Bulletin 3 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin A Cure for the Common Cubicle By Dave Ruller, Kent City Manager Like a lot of employers, Kent city government is facing the retirement of a large number of “baby boomers” who have stewarded Kent for decades and we're finding we've got some hard shoes to fill. Whether it's a result of the tight labor market or broader changes in employee- employer relations, new employees are more selective than ever in seeking positions that provide financial security and enrich their lives at the same time. Today's new hires are looking for more than paychecks and when job expectations go unfulfilled they're quick to move on to find something better. That puts a lot of stress on recruiting, attracting, interviewing, hiring and training so it's more important than ever to find the right “fit” between the employee and the City. The good news is that for all the talk about the character traits of the next generation of “millennials” we've seen their strong volunteer ethic in action and we're hoping that translates into choosing professions that provide opportunities to help others and make communities stronger. Selfishly, we can't think of a better match for those values than working for the City of Kent. Kent police officers, firefighters, building officials, parks supervisors, arborist, snow plow operators, sewer camera operator, water plant manager, health inspectors the list goes on, and as different as all these jobs are, they are all filled by people who want to make a difference and take pride in knowing that they are part of creating a place that 28,000 people call home. That kind of “feel good” stuff doesn't make it into the job ad but it means a lot to City employees and we're hoping that kind of unspoken satisfaction of public service will mean a lot to employee prospects too. City work can be tough, money tight, and weather conditions not so great, but Kent is a better place because of the people that chose to make these jobs their profession, and we're hopeful that's the type of authentic career choice that will appeal to the next generation. Every day City employees go to work for Kent, providing hundreds of services that are easy to overlook. Dogs are walked, businesses open, buses arrive at school, moms and dads go to work, and visiting grandparents count on City streets, sidewalks, traffic lights, and bridges to get them safely to their destination. From the morning shower, to the bedtime cup of water, City services are depended on to keep up with our busy lives.

Continued on page 5

Tree City Bulletin 4 Spring 2019 The BulletinTREE CITY Bulletin Continued from page 4

Whether it's an emergency or your daily routine, City services reach deeply into our lives and that's a point of pride for City employees. No matter what we'd like to do as a City, we can't, without the right people. People from a diversity of backgrounds, knowledge, and experience who can inject fresh perspectives every day. People who are passionate about what they do and are an inspiration to those around them. People who look forward to meeting new challenges every day. People who want to roll up their sleeves and contribute. If this sound like a shameless sales pitch to come work for the City, you're right. We've discovered you can't wait for the best people to find us, we've got to reach out to find them, and we could use your help. If you or friends or family members are sorting through career options, and you care about people and prefer to put community first, we hope you'll consider being a part of the City team. We need more unsung heroes like you. Please check out the Kent Police Department recruitment video to get a flavor of life in a City uniform: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vX_QZaEZ-8

Business, Community & Healthcare Expo...Taste of Kent – April 6th By Lori M Wemhoff, Executive Director Mark your calendars and plan to attend this year’s Kent Area Chamber of Commerce Business, Community & Healthcare Expo on Saturday, April 6th from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm at Theodore Roosevelt High School. Once again representatives from University Hospital Portage Medical Center will be on hand providing a number of free health screenings. The event is open to the public and admission and parking are FREE! Kent-area restaurants, caterers and eateries will be represented in the cafeteria area at the Taste of Kent with samples of their menu offerings. Mr. John Boston, a fan favorite, will be on hand to entertain the crowd while they enjoy the various tastes of Kent from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm. Tickets will be sold for $1 each or six for $5. Proceeds from the tickets sold at the Taste of Kent will benefit the KACC’s Dan Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund. This truly is a community event and its success depends on an impressive number of sponsors and entities working together including: Kent City Schools, Kent State Intercollegiate Athletics and the City of Kent Health Department. In addition, the Chamber collaborates with members of the Theodore Roosevelt DECA program on the coordination and execution of the annual event that annually attracts well over 1,000 attendees. Business owners, organizations, crafters/home-based business owners interested in participating in this year’s event may obtain applications at www.kentbiz.com under the Special Events Information tab, or by calling the KACC office at 330.673.9855. Placement consideration will be given to return participants, KACC members and new vendors in that order. We welcome the community to come out and patronize the local businesses, and learn more about their products and services, enjoy delicious food samples and listen to great music!

Tree City Bulletin 5 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin Project Spotlight...SR 43 Traffic Improvements By Jim Bowling, PE, Deputy Service Director/Superintendent of Engineering

I’ve been asked many times over the last six months, when will the sidewalk project on SR 43 ever get done? It usually takes me a minute to realize that they are asking about the SR 43 Traffic Improvement Project that was started in 2018. From an initial observation, it looks like a sidewalk project. Though the project is much more than a sidewalk replacement project.

So what is the project? That is best explained by the goal of the project. The goal of the project is to improve traffic flow on SR 43 from Summit Street to SR 261 and replace the outdated signals, which have limited abilities to manage traffic on SR 43. So here is what the project specifically includes. First the existing signals at School Street, Cherry Street and Beryl will be replaced with new signals capable of helping us manage traffic and provide increased pedestrian capabilities. Secondly, a second left turn lane from SR 261 westbound to SR 43 southbound will be constructed. Third, the temporary traffic calming measures on School Street that were installed over a decade ago will be made permanent. Finally, the new signals, plus three others will be connected to our central control system that will permit us to coordinate the signals along SR 43. So what does all that mean? Well, have you ever been traveling on SR 43 and got a green light on SR 261 only to be stopped at Beryl Drive? That and other traffic delays will happen much less frequently when the signals are coordinated. This will provide motorists with shorter travel times along SR 43. So why was the sidewalk replaced? The sidewalk was replaced when we installed the necessary signal communication lines and junctions under the sidewalk. Thereby making it look like a sidewalk replacement project.

Back to the initial question. When will the project be SR 43 and Beryl Drive completed? Well, the project is scheduled to be completed in the spring of 2019. Work will progress through the winter, with the installation of the signals and the final pavement work being completed in the spring after the temperatures increase. During this time period there will be intermittent lanes closures along SR 43. Typically, these closures will only be during the day and then the lanes will be opened at night.

We thank everyone for their patience in dealing with the traffic delays while the project is being constructed, and look forward to the completion of the project when long term unnecessary delays can be eliminated. SPRINGTIME WORD SEARCH SPRINGBREAK DAFFODILS A L C S T P A T R I C K S D A Y S A E Z R L W LENT MAY EGGS BASEBALL P K W D G A T E M D A F F O D I L S G V O R G RAIN TULIPS R A I N X S U R W S U N S H I N E X G F B M M EARTHDAY SUNSHINE BUNNY CANDY I D P F T S L L B A S E B A L L X Q S C I F A PASSOVER APRILFOOL S R GREEN EASTER L O Y T X O I P G X L E A R T H D A Y X N BASKET N Q K D S V P T K N E R H E R E T S A E J L C MARCH ROBIN B U N N Y E S P R I N G B R E A K F Z D Q A H APRIL J M A Y B R V M D W T R J B A P R I L F O O L STPATRICKSDAY B A S K E T H L E Q J Y D N A C K O P R W M A

Tree City Bulletin 6 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin Town & Gown Relations Those attending the conference By Lt. Mike Lewis will include university officials (presidents, senior executives, The term Town & Gown represents the governmental affairs, student relationship of the two communities affairs, etc.) and city officials within a college/university town. The (mayors, city managers, “town” in this case is made up of the non- academic aspect of Kent, and the “gown” economic developers) of course represents Kent State predominantly from Ohio. This University. The distinction of the two two-day conference will be should not indicate that they are Thursday July 18 and Friday July completely separate. In order to achieve 19. Based on past versions of success, the city and the university both must work together and this annual conference, we embrace what the other has to offer. This is true in much of the expect 125-150 people in development and growth over the last several years for Kent and attendance. Kent State University. The City and the University embrace the idea of a strong Town & A strong Town & Gown Gown relationship. Meetings are regularly held that include the Kent partnership is vital to our Kent State dean and assistant dean of students, the assistant director of community. Having strong Kent Police Lt. Mike Lewis and fraternity and sorority life, Kent State government & community relationships between the city Kent State Assistant Dean of relations, the Kent city manager and mayor, safety forces chiefs and and the university is an Students Todd Kamenash co- spokespersons, community development, code enforcement, important component of our presented at the 2018 Ohio Town success. There is a lot of work & Gown Conference at Bowling health department and more. These meetings promote regular Green State University. communication about events, issues and collaborative done on a regular basis to help opportunities. the two communities work well together. This summer, Kent will showcase the successes of The concept of Town & Gown is promoted nationally through the those strong relationships as we welcome officials from various International Town & Gown Association. The ITGA was formed in cities, colleges and universities from all over the region. We are 2008, and is based in Clemson, SC. The ITGA strengthens Town & excited to share what makes Kent exceptional. Gown relationships and addresses the challenges, emerging issues and opportunities between universities and their communities. Each year the ITGA hosts a conference that brings together Town & Gown personnel from all over the country. Last year's conference was hosted by Ohio State University and this year's conference will be at Penn State. On a more local level, Ohio campuses recently began hosting regional Town & Gown conferences, and this year's event will be hosted right here in Kent. Kent State University Assistant Dean of Students Todd Kamenash states, “The 2019 Ohio International Town & Gown Summit, hosted by the City of Kent and Kent State University, is an opportunity to bring people to our section of Northeast Ohio so we can showcase what we do well, where we have challenges, and learn from others' practical experiences.” This summer's conference goals will include: - Listen to each other's perspectives & consider applicable ideas for your community - Meet new colleagues and reunite with distant friends - Experience the history of May 4th, 1970-the day the war came home-in person - Sample the hospitality of downtown Kent & Kent State University

Tree City Bulletin 7 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin Local Business Resources By Tom Wilke, Economic Development Director

Generally speaking, the primary goal of economic development is to create and For more information on the retain jobs by helping businesses to either PDB and the PCPA visit their locate in the area or to grow if they are website at already here. Our region is fortunate to www.portagedevbd.org. have several resources dedicated to this Ohio Small Business Development Center effort including yours truly and I offer you a The Ohio Small Business Development Center (SBDC) network is brief overview of each of them. the state's premier technical assistance program for small business. SBDCs provide no cost confidential, in-depth, one to City of Kent one counseling to businesses that currently have less than 500 The city has a low interest revolving loan fund that can be used in employees. Additional services include workshops and other conjunction with local bank financing to invest in most business training on topics of importance to businesses, e-counseling, related assets necessary for startups or expansion projects. technical assistance, loan package guidance and information on federal, state and local regulations and programs. There are three Community Reinvestment Areas (CRAs) in the city. If a new commercial structure is built or an existing The SBDC serving Kent is hosted by the Summit-Medina Business commercial structure is expanded, part of the property taxes on Alliance located in Akron. Susan McGann, a Certified Business the improvements may be eligible for exemption. Advisor, assists Kent residents from a satellite office provided by the City's Department of Community Development at 930 The City assists with site selection by maintaining a list of all the Overholt Road. She can be contacted at 330.678.8108 or via available commercial properties with as much information as is email at [email protected]. McGann has been working with available on each of them. I can help with these programs and can the SBDC and Kent-based businesses since 2008. be reached at 330.676.7582 or [email protected]. The Ohio Small Business Development Center network is part of Portage Development Board a partnership between the U.S. Small Business Administration The Portage Development Board (PDB) is a 501 (C)(3) private (SBA) and the Ohio Development Services Agency. non-profit organization which consists of a Board of Directors and a nine-member Executive Committee. PDB's responsibilities Akron SCORE include providing assistance to industrial Realtors, builders, local Akron SCORE's mission is to utilize the business knowledge & industries and local communities in an effort to maintain and skills of its volunteer counselors to successfully guide improve the economic base in Portage County. entrepreneurs & existing small businesses toward their goals in Medina, Portage, Summit and Wayne Counties. The Akron The PDB connects its customers to resources that can assist in chapter was formed in 1965 and has 70 counseling professionals starting a business, expanding its markets, and utilizing its human with diverse business backgrounds. During 2014, Akron SCORE and capital resources more effectively. PDB can also help find provided services to more than 3,000 clients through face-to-face capital to purchase sites and buildings; build buildings; buy and counseling and the 100 business workshops it conducted. All upgrade machinery and equipment, and even find working capital. services provided by this SCORE chapter are FREE and Additionally, the Portage Development Board can help connect a CONFIDENTIAL. company to resources that can help enhance their existing workforce or help locate additional skilled workers. SCORE's mentors, comprised of active and retired business men and women, provide clients with free and confidential business Portage County Port Authority counseling. Counseling can be conducted at the client's place of The Portage County Port Authority (PCPA), created by the business, at their chapter headquarters, by telephone or via email. Portage County Board of Commissioners, provides an additional economic development tool for Portage County. SCORE mentors and representatives from the local business community conduct a variety of regularly scheduled, low-cost Because of its tax-exempt status, the PCPA can pass savings on to educational workshops that provide valuable information and economic development projects. That makes more projects techniques necessary for establishing and managing a successful possible. The PCPA can also loan money at competitive rates and business. terms, acquire and sell property to economic development projects, issue revenue bonds for port authority facilities, and much Contact SCORE at 330.379.3163 or [email protected]. more.

Tree City Bulletin 8 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin

Kent City Health Department Perhaps the most important successes of 2018 are the partnerships established. Whether it is the community, local Expanding Its Outreach businesses, or other stakeholders of health in the City of Kent In 2018, the Kent City Health Department and Portage County, the ability to work with others easily has successfully completed several goals that become an invaluable resource. directly impacted and improved the health The health department also started to focus on health equity status of the Kent community. It has gone to initiatives. A fraught population that is subjected to health great efforts to ensure that tobacco use and the inequity is the LGBTQ community. In order to gather effects of secondhand smoke are reduced. perspective of their inability to sufficiently and safely acquire Kent City Health Department advocated for and helped pass a healthcare services, the health department hosted two Tobacco 21 policy in the city, effectively pushing the minimum roundtable discussions at the Kent State LGBTQ Student age to purchase harmful tobacco products from 18 years of age Center to listen to students of this community voice their to 21. The process for this involved conducting surveys with the opinions. While HIV testing was a focal point of the community and stakeholders, hosting an open discussion event discussions, tobacco use and e-cigarettes were deliberated with the affected tobacco retailers, gathering letters of support on. In a post-survey, questions based on tobacco use and from several organizations, and lobbying the cessation were asked. The discussions provided a fresh city's decision-makers using research and data perspective on a subject that is not only very of other successful Tobacco 21 policies around personal to some individuals, but a key health the country. Many other cities and counties in barrier that the health department is aiming to the state of Ohio have referred to Kent City help overcome for all populations. Health Department in the hopes of instituting Tobacco 21 in their own community. Accreditation Update Following the passing of Tobacco 21 and with assistance from the Academic Health Kent City Health Department has been pursuing Department program, Kent City Health national accreditation through the Public Health Department embarked on a series of goals in fall Accreditation Board since late 2015. The 2018. In the fall, using the knowledge gained from studying difficult and long process is finally approaching its conclusion. tobacco policy, the health department reached out to local The health department recently completed the initial businesses and multi-unit housing complexes to assist in their document submission to PHAB and the corresponding review efforts to reduce the use of tobacco products and protect process with the assigned accreditation specialist. The next against secondhand smoke. Housing complexes who would step is have a group of site visitors come out to see the health normally not show interest in such policies, agreed to work with department and speak with staff, stakeholders of the the health department. Local food operators, both established community, and other public health professionals. The multi- and new to the city, demonstrated concern and curiosity about day event with the site visitors will ultimately help determine if tobacco cessation for not only their employees but for their the health department meets accreditation standards. guests too. Successful partnerships require both sides to work The state of Ohio has adopted together, and the health department has been able to do just these PHAB standards and that. requires health departments to In an effort to assist those who come to the health department meet them to maximize to quit smoking, information regarding cessation services was efficiency, effort, and the ability needed. The health department conducted additional survey to serve the community. work to better understand what organizations and businesses Through the completion of this offered tobacco cessation services to the public. The survey accreditation process, Kent City work required weeks of follow-up calls, meetings, and in some Health Department will be on instances completing the entire survey over the phone or in its way to completing all three of person. The end result was a tobacco cessation resource guide those goals and be a more for the public and a list of additional health services who would valuable resource to the city of Kent. like to be referrals or providers of tobacco cessation interventions.

Tree City Bulletin 9 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin

Home Heritage Concerts Series News from Utility Billing:

Music will again be in the air in downtown Kent REMINDER: On-Line Payment of your Utility Bill is available! th on select Thursday evenings beginning May 16 You can make payments th and concluding August 15 . Bring your lawn chairs or with credit card or e-check a blanket and join the growing number of music at lovers in Hometown Bank Plaza in downtown Kent for great https://kentohio.ezsecure music and relaxation! All concerts are on Thursdays, 7:00 - pay.com, without having to 9:00 pm. Rain dates are the following Thursday, if performer is pay a convenience fee. An available. Kent isn’t the only place where you can enjoy email receipt option will be music on select Thursday evenings. This year’s schedule presented at the end of your transaction. You will need your Utility includes concerts in Brimfield and Ravenna too. account number when first registering your on-line payment profile. May 16th Theodore Roosevelt High School Orchestra and Jazz When taking vacations, it is a good idea to turn off outside spigots at the Ensemble – Kent Hometown Bank Plaza inside shut off valve. This prevents vandals from turning on your spigots and letting them run. Ravenna High School STEEL BLUE Ravenna Courthouse Lawn Senior/Disabled Citizen Discount th June 6 The water and sewer will be discounted by Dan Angotti Jazz Orchestra – Kent Hometown Bank Plaza 20% if the income guidelines fall within these June 13th ranges, annual household income not to Reflections – Kent Hometown Bank Plaza exceed: Single: $27,950, Married: $31,950 Motown Night with proof of annual income, and proof of age (62 or older) or disability. June 20th Chardon Polka Band – Kent Hometown Bank Plaza The homeowner would simply need to fill out a form and provide proof of income and age or disability June 27th to our office and the discount would be applied to the next bill. Freedom Brass Band – Kent Hometown Bank Plaza July 11th Please take the time to look at your billing and verify that F.O.G. (Fat Old Guys) – Ravenna Courthouse Lawn your meter reading is not estimated. If it is, it will say

th “estimated” on the upper right corner of you statement. July 13 If this appears, please call our office. Eric Clapton Evolution Bank – Kent Blues Fest

th Water/Sewer payments can be made by mail, automatic July 18 withdraw, in our after hours drop box or in person. Our office currently Beatles Tribute Band: Hard Day’s Night accepts cash, check, Visa, Mastercard, American Express & Discover. Kent Hometown Bank Plaza WE DO NOT ACCEPT PAYMENTS BY PHONE. July 25th The Boomers - Brimfield Are you the property owner and are you interested in direct debit for

th your monthly water/sewer bill? If so, please fill out the “Draft August 8 Authorization Form” found on page 15, and return it to: The Michael Weber Show Kent Hometown Bank Plaza The City of Kent - Utility Billing th August 15 930 Overholt Road, Kent, Ohio 44240 Monica Robins & The Ninja Cowboys Kent Hometown Bank Plaza Please note this is only available for property owners! Country Night

th September 13 If you have any questions, Monica Robins & The Whiskey Kings please contact the Utility Billing Division at 330.678.8104. Kent Hometown Bank Plaza ‘Round Town Festival

Tree City Bulletin 10 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin

NORTHWEST Rollins Circle King Avenue Bowman Drive Deidrick Road Adamle Drive Roy Marsh Drive Lake Street Burnett Road Denise Drive Admore Drive Shady Lakes Drive Lincoln Street, N (5439 only) Elno Avenue Adrian Drive Shorewood Circle Linden Road Cedar Street Emich Drive Allen Drive Stonewater Drive Lock Street Chadwick Road Eton Road Bruce Drive Stinaff Street Luther Avenue Cherry Street Francis Street, N & S Bryce Road & Way (West of Hudson Rd) Main Street, E Currie Hall Parkway Gale Drive Catlin Court Sunset Way Circle & Mantua Street, N DePeyster Street, S Gardenview Street Chestnut Street, N Blvd Verona Avenue (North of Crain) Dodge Street Garrett Street Clarkview Circle Whetstone Drive Marvin Street Elm Street Garth Drive Cottage Gate Drive Whitewood Drive Mason Avenue E & W Franklin Avenue Gill Drive Crestview Circle Whittier Drive Miller Avenue Hall Street, E & W Grove Avenue Cuyahoga St Windward Lane Needham Avenue Harris Street Hampton Road (West of Hudson Rd) Woodard Avenue Oakwood Drive High Street Hughey Drive Deleone Drive Wrens Hollow Circle Orchard Street Ivan Drive Irma Street Delores Drive Overlook Drive Joyanne Court Janet Drive Earl Avenue NORTHEAST Perry Street Lincoln Street, S Jessie Avenue Pleasant Avenue Loop Road Judith Street Edgewater Circle Anna Avenue Portage Street Mae Street Laurel Drive Erin Drive Beechmont Place River Bend Boulevard Maple Street Lawrence Court Evergreen Drive Beechwold Drive River Edge Drive Marigold Lane Leonard Boulevard Fairchild Avenue Birchwood Circle River Park Drive Martinel Road Longmere Drive Fieldstone Drive Brady Street Riverside Court Meloy Road Louise Street Forest Drive Burns Court River Trail Drive Mogadore Road Lower Drive Gougler Avenue Burr Oak Drive Roscoe Drive Morris Road Manchester Avenue Governors Circle Carthage Street Rustic Bridge Drive Oak Street, E & W Mantua Street, S Harold Street College Avenue, E & W Rustic Knoll Drive Olympus Drive Main Street, W High Ridge Lane College Court Sherman Street Overholt Road Marilyn Street Hollister Drive Columbus Street Standing Rock Avenue Pine Street Meadow Drive Hudson Road Costley Court Starr Avenue Primrose Lane Meredith Street Kevin Drive Crain Avenue Steele Street Rellim Drive Middlebury Road Lakewood Circle Cuyahoga St Stinaff Street School Street, E & W Munroe Falls-Kent Road Longcoy Avenue (East of Hudson Rd) (East of Hudson Rd) Shaw Drive Norwood Street Lowell Drive Dansel Street Temple Avenue St. Clair Avenue Overbrook Drive Majors Lane Davey Avenue Tonkin Street Statesman Place Parmalee Street Mantua Street, N Day Street, E & W University Drive Summit Street, E & W Paulus Drive (Main to Crain) DePeyster Street, N Virginia Avenue Sunnybrook Road Pearl Street, S McKinney Boulevard Dominion Drive Walter Street Valleyview Street Prospect Street, S Michaels Drive Doramor Street Water Street, N Vine Street & Court River Street Nathan Drive Edgewood Drive Willow Street, N & S Walnut Street Roosevelt Avenue Naturewood Circle Elizabeth Court Wilson Avenue Water Street, S Sheri Drive Newcomer Road Elmwood Drive Wolcott Avenue West Street Short Street (East side only) Erie Street, E & W Woodhill Drive Williams Street, E & W Silver Meadows Blvd Nicholas Drive Fairview Drive Woodside Drive Willow Street Ext, S Spaulding Drive Nottingham Circle First Ave Stow Street Park Avenue (1600 block only) Sunrise Boulevard Pearl Street, N Frances Drive SOUTHEAST SOUTHWEST Suzanne Drive Phillip Drive Gatun Street Ada Street Allerton Street Tallmadge Avenue Pioneer Avenue Glad Boulevard Akron Boulevard Artemis Drive VFW Parkway Prospect Street, N Graham Avenue Beech Street Athena Drive Yacavona Drive Quay Boulevard Grant Street, E & W Avondale Street Brentwood Drive Randall Drive Harvey Street Beal Court Carol Drive Red Fern Circle Highland Avenue Benjamin Court Chelton Drive Robert Drive Holly Drive Berkeley Street Chestnut Street, S Rockwell Street Horning Road Beryl Drive Colleen Drive

Tree City Bulletin 11 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin Spring Cleanup 2019 Items will be picked up in the NORTHWEST section beginning Monday, May 6th and ending Friday May 10th Items will be picked up in the NORTHEAST sections beginning Monday, May 13th and ending Friday, May 17th Items will be picked up in the SOUTHEAST section beginning Monday, May 20th and ending Friday, May 24th Items will be picked up in the SOUTHWEST sections beginning Monday, May 28th and ending Saturday, June 1st Items MUST be placed on the curb by 7:00 am on MONDAY of the week your section is scheduled to guarantee pick up! See street listing on page 11 to reference your street’s location by section. Please read this article carefully for items that are ACCEPTABLE and will be picked up. NON-ACCEPTABLE items will be tagged, rejected, and left on the curb. If you have questions about a particular item, please contact the Service Department at 330.678.8105 PRIOR to Monday of your scheduled pickup week for clarification. PROHIBITED ITEMS AUTOMOBILE TIRES WILL NOT BE PICKED UP AT ¡ regular household trash THE CURB. ¡ yard waste A drop off location for tires is being provided for ¡ concrete City of Kent residents. Automobile tires (rims ¡ household hazardous waste (paint, batteries, removed) can be dropped off by residents May motor oil, pesticides, aerosol cans, gasoline, 28th through May 31st between the hours of explosives, solvents) Noon and 7:30 pm at City of Kent property located on Plum Street ¡ light bulbs east of Plum Creek Park. Residents will be required to show proof of ¡ railroad ties residency (driver's license or current City of Kent water bill). ¡ loose/broken glass Items must be small enough for two men to handle; furniture, Automobile tires will not be collected at the curb (see below for electronics, toys, bikes, carpet, etc. All upholstered furniture automobile tire drop off information and dates). and mattresses placed at the curb must be wrapped in plastic. Building materials will be collected in small amounts and RESIDENTS MUST CALL THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT only if it is contained for easy handling. Construction materials 330.678.8105 IN ADVANCE OF THEIR SCHEDULED WEEK placed at the curb for pick up must be cut into lengths of four feet or FOR THE REMOVAL OF ITEMS CONTAINING FREON. less and bundled to ensure pickup. Construction/demolition debris (drywall, lumber, fencing, etc) must also be bundled or placed in ALL APPLIANCES SHOULD BE IN A containers for pickup. Both the container and debris will be taken. SEPARATE PILE. DOORS SHOULD BE Construction materials placed at the curb that has not been bundled REMOVED FROM FREEZERS AND or put into containers will be tagged, rejected and left at the curb. REFRIGERATORS. Please try to donate, find a reuse, or recycle unwanted items SCRAP METAL SHOULD BE PLACED before placing them at the curb for collection. Some WITH APPLIANCES. PLEASE PLACE suggestions are as follows: APPLIANCES ON THE CURB BEFORE 7:00 AM MONDAY OF YOUR Type of Item: Donate to: DESIGNATED WEEK TO GUARANTEE Clothing Items County Clothing Center PICKUP. 330.296.0503 LOOSE ITEMS MUST BE PLACED IN BAGS OR Furniture/Clothing/ Kent/Ravenna Goodwill CONTAINERS. CONTAINERS AND CONTENTS WILL BE Household items, etc. Store and Donation Center PICKED UP. LOOSE ITEMS WILL NOT BE PICKED UP 330.677.5402 Furniture/Household Items Habitat for Humanity ¡ TRASH CANS THAT ARE PLACED AT THE CURB Restore CONTAINING ITEMS INTENDED FOR COLLECTION 330.677.8881 DURING THE SPRING CLEANUP WILL NOT BE EMPTIED Computers/Printers Portage Recycling Center AND RETURNED TO THE CURB. ALL CONTAINERS 330.678.8808 AND/OR CANS WILL BE COLLECTED AND DISPOSED OF WITH THE UNWANTED ITEMS. ** Call for hours/acceptable items ¡ TRASH CANS THAT CONTAIN REGULAR HOUSEHOLD Once a rejection tag has been placed on items left at the curb, GARBAGE PLACED AT THE CURB AS PART OF THE those items will NOT be picked up at a later date. If you have any WEEKLY TRASH COLLECTION PROGRAM WILL BE questions regarding Spring Cleanup, please call the Service RETURNED TO THE CURB. Department at 330.678.8105.

Tree City Bulletin 12 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin Spring 2019 Brush Collection Program

The City of Kent's Central Maintenance Division collects brush at the curb twice each year. The 2019 Spring Brush Collection Program will commence Monday, April 29th.

Residents are asked to please place brush at the curb or edge of street BEFORE the first Monday of their street's scheduled collection period to ensure collection.

Brush will be collected in the NORTHWEST section Brush will be collected in the SOUTHEAST section Monday, April 29th to Friday, May 3rd Monday, May 13th to Friday, May 17th Brush will be collected in the NORTHEAST section Brush will be collected in the SOUTHWEST section Monday, May 6th to Friday, May 10th Monday, May 20th to Friday, May 24th

Please see page 11 to reference your street's location. Crews will make only one pass down each street during the scheduled week. Please do not wait until later in the week to place your brush at the curb, as there will NOT be a second pass in your neighborhood. Chipping crews will spend a maximum of 30 minutes at each residence. Residents that miss the collection or have an excessive amount of brush will be responsible to dispose of their brush on their own. It may be taken to the City Yard Transfer Site located on Plum Street near the entrance to Plum Creek Park.

R Placement of brush should be on the tree lawn and close to the curb or the edge of pavement with the cut ends facing the street. R If possible, leave the brush in longer lengths, brush that is too long may be placed lengthwise. R Stacked brush must NOT block the sidewalk or extend onto or over the roadway pavement. R Stacked brush containing foreign objects will NOT be collected. City crews will notify homeowners by placing a notice on their door for any piles of brush that are refused because it is not stacked properly or contains foreign debris. Once the pile of brush has been rejected it must be corrected immediately or it will become the responsibility of the homeowner to dispose of.

If a commercial contractor has been hired to trim or remove trees, the contractor is responsible for the brush removal and it is not to be placed at the curb.

Please note the beginning date of the Brush Collection Program for your location and make sure to place brush to be chipped at the curb prior to the start date for your neighborhood.

Brush is collected at the curb during the months of May and October each year. During the remaining months residents can take brush to the City of Kent Yard Waste Transfer Site on Plum Street near the entrance of Plum Creek Park.

If you have questions or comments please call the Service Department at 330.678.8105.

Tree City Bulletin 13 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin

Kent Sustainability https://www.solarunitedneighbors.org/ohi Part 2 o/go-solar-in-ohio/go-solar-in-a-ohio- Kent State University Hosts Free Commission group/portage-county-solar-co-op/ Electronics Recycling and Document Shredding Events Part 1 (Disclaimer: this initiative is not led by the The Kent Sustainability Commission is Kent Sustainability Commission. We are Free Electronics Recycling: working hard to promote sustainability and promoting it as a courtesy to Kent residents.) March 6th, 13th, 20th environmental stewardship in Kent and 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Climate Action Plan Portage County. To this end, the The E-Cycle Drive will be held on March 6, The City of Kent is dedicated to doing its Commission would like to share an update 13, and 20, from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the part to address global climate change. In on three upcoming or continuing activities Kent State University R-17 Parking lot October 2017, the Kent City Council and initiatives in 2019: behind Starbucks: between S. Willow passed a resolution of support for the Paris Street and S. Lincoln Street. Members of 2019 Environmental Film Series Climate Agreement. Since then, the Kent both the campus and City of Kent The Kent Sustainability Commission, in Sustainability Commission has tasked an community can recycle used electronics partnership with the Kent Free Library, is Ad-hoc Committee made up of community nd through RET3, an R2 certified recycler, proud to announce the 2 Annual stakeholders with developing a Climate Environmental Film Series! The series where materials are handled in an began in 2018 as a way to highlight the environmentally and socially responsible various environmental, social, and way. Materials permitted at the E-Cycle economic issues leading up to Earth Day. Drive include just about anything with a Come join us at the Kent Free Library in the cord: personal computers, laptop 2nd floor conference room on the dates computers, servers and storage devices, highlighted below, starting at 6pm: monitors CRT and LCD, docking stations, floppy drives, DVD/CD burners, VCRs, - March 19th – Film: Growing Cities circuit boards, scanners, copiers, printers, This film examines the role of cables, wires, extension cords, digital urban farming in America and the cameras, cellular phones, DVD players, power it has to revitalize our cities network and telecom equipment. TVs and and change the way we eat. kitchen appliances are NOT accepted. For more information about E-Cycle Drive - April 16th – Film: The Human visit https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/e- Element – Environmental Action Plan and greenhouse gas inventory cycle-drive photographer James Balog for the City of Kent. This plan will provide a captures the lives of everyday detailed and strategic framework for Free Document Shredding: Americans on the front lines of measuring, planning, and reducing th March 13 climate change. The coast-to-coast greenhouse gas emissions and related 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. series of captivating stories inspires climatic impacts. Shred-Mania will be open Wednesday, us to reevaluate our relationship March 13th, from 8:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the with the natural world. Throughout 2018 the Ad-hoc Committee has worked to gather emission data for Kent State University R-17 Parking lot Ohio Solar United Neighbors Kent across multiple sectors including: behind Starbucks: between S. Willow Portage County Solar Co-op transportation, electric and gas usage by Street and S. Lincoln Street. Members of Interested in having increased access to residents and commercial properties, and both the campus and City of Kent affordable solar power? Check out the new solid waste collection. Once the inventory community may shred personal solar cooperative that was formed for is completed, the Ad-hoc Committee will documents, however, only university Portage County which will help provide use these findings to develop the Climate property will be counted towards the access to solar panel installations for Action Plan and provide recommendations competition with this event. Materials residences, businesses and other for ways to reduce emission levels locally. accepted for shredding: documents, organizations in Kent and the larger Portage As this process continues into 2019, stay drawings, photos, blueprints, coupons, County area! The first step of launching this tuned for opportunities that will allow tickets, checks, magazines, paper bags, file co-op has been completed and the Ohio residents to provide community input on folders. There is a limit of 5 boxes per Solar United Neighbors organization what's important in Kent. person from Kent community invites you to check out their website for members for shredding. more information about the co-op, and to view next steps as they are scheduled: Continued on page 19

Tree City Bulletin 14 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin Draft Authorization Form for Utility Bill Save check writing, postage and/or personal trips to City Hall!

3 Simple Steps to Automatic Bill Payment... 1. Clip, complete and sign this form 2. Enclose a VOIDED check or saving deposit slip 3. Mail to: City of Kent Utility Department 0 4

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Tree City Bulletin 15 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin

Yard Waste Transfer Site Info Located at the entrance to Plum Creek Park Materials List Please review BEFORE attempting to Days and Hours of Operation Open EVERYDAY during daylight hours deliver to the site! During 2019, mulch will be loaded for residents between the Accepted hours of 9:15 - 11:45 am on the following Saturdays: Brush May 4th, 11th & 18th th Grass June 8 July 13th Firewood August 10th Leaves Passes must be purchased in advance; Weeds no mulch will be loaded without a prepaid pass. Any type of yard waste Pick-Up of Mulch RESIDENTS ONLY! NOT Accepted u There is no charge for mulch if loaded by hand NO lumber or wood pallets u There is a fee of $10 per load IF loaded by front end NO construction debris loader at site (see dates/hours above) NO trash of any kind Loading passes must be purchased in advance and NO logs/stumps presented when mulch is loaded. NO full trees Passes are available for purchase at the City Service NO large root balls Administration Complex, 930 Overholt Road, weekdays NO railroad ties 8:00 am - 5:00 pm The City of Kent Yard Waste Regulations Drop-Off Yard Waste Rules Transfer Site is available to all Kent residents and monitored u Non-residents are NOT permitted on the site by video camera to protect against regulation violations and u No charge for City residents to drop off yard waste non-resident use. When asked by City of Kent staff, u No commercial use of site is permitted residents using the YWTS shall present proof of residency u Unauthorized equipment prohibited on premises (drivers license or current water bill). Unauthorized equipment is prohibited on premises.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO EMPTY BAGS OF YARD If you have any questions regarding the WASTE AND TAKE THE BAGS WITH YOU Yard Waste Transfer Site, please call 330.678.8105.

Tree City Bulletin 16 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin

www.kentparksandrec.com – 330.673.8897

YOUTH & ADULT PROGRAMS...SPECIAL EVENTS...YOUTH & ADULT PROGRAMS...SPECIAL EVENTS

YOUTH EGG HUNT: The Easter Bunny arrives at 12:45 p.m. to COST: Free kick off our annual Easter Egg Hunt! Over 5,000 eggs for your little Deadline: Register with Kent Parks and Rec by May 24 one to discover! WHEN: Saturday, April 20 at 12:45 p.m. XTINQUISH TORCH FEST: It's the 50th anniversary of the famed WHERE: Fred Fuller Park (497 Middlebury Rd.) Cuyahoga River Fire that forever cemented it as the “Burning River." WHO: Youth 9 yrs. and under Kent will commemorate this anniversary with live music, food COST: FREE vendors, river themed activities and games, and a ceremony remembering the river fire and celebrating the hard work of the Kent EASTER EGG SCRAMBLE: This popular adult egg hunt scatters community in preserving the river for future generations. over 6,000 eggs throughout Fred Fuller Park in the dark! Join the WHEN: June 20 4:30 - 9pm party for a chance to find winning eggs with over $4,000 in prizes! WHERE: Kent Main Street Bridge and River Edge Park Registration opens March 22. WHO: Open to the public WHEN: Friday, April 19 at 9 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Fred Fuller Park (497 Middlebury Rd.) WHO: Adults 18 yrs. and over BARKS & RECREATION: Positive dog training with Lydia M. COST: $15 per person Gonzalez, CPDT-KA of Lydia's Canine Academy LLC DEADLINE: When 800 tickets are sold WHERE: Old Jail (497 Middlebury Rd.) WHO: Puppies and Adult Dogs KENT TENNIS LESSONS: Sign up now for instruction provided by Sheila Shiu, Roosevelt High School's Varsity Tennis Coach! Pupper 1 Manners: Level 1 WHEN: Sundays from April 28 - June 2; Beginners 4 - 5 p.m.; Tuesdays: February 26 April 2; 6 - 7pm Intermediate and Advanced 5 - 6 p.m. $100 for 6 weeks WHERE: Roosevelt High School's Tennis Courts Maximum Class Size: 6 puppies WHO: All ages and skill levels accepted Level One: An introductory course to basic puppy manners! Puppies COST: $48 resident; $56 non-resident 8 to 20 weeks old will learn various house-manners skills through DEADLINE: Friday, April 26 rewards-based training, including: potty training, crate training, jumping prevention, coming when called, sit, down and much more! KENT BLACK SQUIRREL 5K WALK/RUN CLUB: Chose to run or walk approximately 3 miles along the beautiful Hike & Bike Trails Doggo 1 Manners: Level 1 to Downtown Kent. There, we will enjoy perks at the day's Tuesdays: February 26 April 2; 7:30-8:30pm designated shop. Each participant will receive a running club t-shirt! $100 for 6 weeks WHEN: Sundays at 8:30am from May 5 to June 23 Maximum Class Size: 6 dogs WHERE: Hometown Bank Plaza Level One: An introductory course to basic house manners is for dogs WHO: All ages welcome. (14 & under must be with a parent.) older than 20 weeks with minimal to no formal training. Dogs in this COST: $15 course will learn basic cues, such as: sit, down, stay, stand and leave it, DEADLINE: Friday, May 3 as well as behaviors such as loose leash walking, impulse control and more! TAKE A KID FISHING DAY: Take your kid fishing with a free hot dog lunch provided for the family, prizes and fishing equipment Pupper 2 Manners: Level 2 giveaways for the children. Everyone in the family can fish for free and Wednesdays: February 27 March 27; 6 - 7pm without a license. $100 for 5 weeks WHEN: June 1 from 7 a.m. - noon Maximum Class Size: 6 puppies WHERE: Lake Hodgson in Ravenna Level Two: An intensive course that hones the basic manners learned WHO: Children and their families in Puppers I so they may be applied in real world settings. This course

Tree City Bulletin 17 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin

www.kentparksandrec.com – 330.673.8897

YOUTH & ADULT PROGRAMS...SPECIAL EVENTS...YOUTH & ADULT PROGRAMS...SPECIAL EVENTS prepares your pup for a variety of everyday circumstances: enjoying Camp Length: 10 weeks; June 3th - August 9 vet exams and grooming appointments, polite meetings and Days: Monday - Friday introductions on walks, leash manners and heeling, and always Time: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. maintaining focus and attention in public. Ages: Entering 1st grade - 3rd grade Location: Davey Elementary School (196 N. Prospect St.) Doggo 2 Manners: Level 2 Max Enrollment: 30 children Wednesdays: February 27 March 27; 7:30-8:30pm Registration Fee: $15 $100 for 5 weeks Weekly Cost: $118 resident; $126 non-resident Maximum Class Size: 6 dogs Full Time County Vouchers Accepted. Level Two: A follow-up course to Doggos I that prepares your dog to Additional Sibling Discount: $5 per child/per week behave with good manners in various situations your dog will experience: vaccinations and vet examinations, grooming KPR Kidz Camp @ Kent Rec appointments, leash manners and heeling, and maintaining your dog's This camp is perfect for working parents who need care for their child attention in public. all day long. The children receive breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack. Field trips, swimming, a movie and special guests are included Puppy Playtime! each week. Small groups encourage learning in arts & crafts, recreation, Tuesdays: February 26 April 2; 5:30 - 6pm reading and outdoor/nature activities. $10 per playtime or $50 for 6 playtimes Camp Length: 10 weeks; June 3rd - August 9 Maximum Group Size: 15 puppies Days: Monday - Friday The perfect opportunity for your puppy to enjoy some off-leash Time: 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. socialization! Your puppy and his/her new best friends will be safely Ages: Entering 1st grade - 6th grade supervised by Lydia herself. Puppy Playtime Passes will need to be Location: Kent Recreation Center (1115 Franklin Ave.) purchased prior to session dates. Must provide shot records to Max Enrollment: 45 children participate. Registration Fee: $15 Weekly Cost: $142 resident; $150 non-resident Full Time County Vouchers Accepted. KPR Lil' Learner's Camp Additional Sibling Discount: $5 per child/per week Preschoolers will have the opportunity to play in Fred Fuller Park, walk the Hike & Bike Trail, complete arts & crafts, sing songs, read Junior Expedition Camp stories and make their first friendships each week this summer. Is your child looking for outdoor adventures? This camp will provide Camp Length: 8 weeks; June 10 - August 1 opportunities for your child to learn to overcome obstacles, take risks, Days: Monday - Thursday rely upon themselves and others, develop strong character and Time: 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. community, and explore the world. They will hike, bike, climb, camp Ages: 3 - 5 years and much more! Location: Roy Smith Shelterhouse (601 Middlebury Rd.) Camp Length: 10 weeks; June 3rd - August 9 Max Enrollment: 30 children Days: Monday - Friday Registration Fee: $10 Time: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Weekly Cost: $45 resident; $53 non-resident Ages: Entering 4th grade - 8th grade KPR Kidz Camp @ Davey Location: Plum Creek Park (corner of Mogadore Rd. & Cherry St.) Does your child thrive in a smaller group setting? Our small groups at Max Enrollment: 45 children the beautiful Davey Elementary encourage learning in arts & crafts, Registration Fee: $15 recreation, reading and outdoor/nature activities. Field trips, Weekly Cost: $118 resident; $126 non-resident swimming, a movie and special guests are included each week. Additional Sibling Discount: $5 per child/per week

Tree City Bulletin 18 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin Continued from page 14 Child Immunization Clinics Held Monthly For more information about Shred- Mania visit: Is your child fully immunized? https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/s Immunizing children on time is hred-mania the best protection against dangerous childhood diseases. E-Cycle Drive and Shred-Mania are Vaccines protect children against potentially disabling and life- hosted by Kent State University's threatening diseases such as hepatitis B, pertussis (whooping Facilities Management, Human cough), diphtheria, tetanus, haemophilus influenzae B, Resources, and the Office of pneumococcal infections (meningitis), measles, mumps, rubella, Sustainability. The public electronics rotavirus, chicken pox, polio, and human papilloma virus. recycling drop-off event contributes to Kent State University's standings in RecycleMania. This is the 10th year Kent State is The Kent City Health Department works closely with the Portage competing in RecycleMania. RecycleMania is a friendly competition County Health Department to provide child immunizations every and benchmarking tool for college and university recycling programs month. to promote waste-reduction activities to their campus

rd communities. Over 300 colleges and universities compete in When: Every 3 Wednesday of each month RecycleMania. 3:00 - 5:00pm Where: 414 East Main Street For more information visit: www.kent.edu/sustainability. If you Who: All children, 2 months- age 18 years have questions, contact Leah Graham, Kent State University's Cost: $10 per shot, FREE to those who can't pay! Outreach Recycling Coordinator, at 330.672.8023 or Medicaid, Buckeye, Care Source, and United [email protected]. Health accepted Immunization Schedule Recommended Vaccine Age Birth Hep B

2 Months DTaP, Hep B, Hib, PCV, Polio, Rotavirus

4 Months DTaP, Hib, PCV, Polio, Rotavirus

6 Months DTaP, Hep B, Hib, PCV, Rotavirus, Flu

12 Months Hep A, MMR, Varicella

15 to 18 Months DTaP, Hep A, Hib, PCV, Polio

4 to 6 years DTaP, MMR, Polio, Varicella

11 to 18 years Meningococcal, HPV, Tdap, Hep A

Tree City Bulletin 19 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin Fire & EMS Updates ourselves with other EMS services to see how we might By Chief John Tosko improve the care we provide to cardiac-arrest patients.

As I write this article, your Kent Fire Department just finished its Improving our Pediatric care busiest year ever. We responded to 4,677 calls last year, a 7.5% z Medics are taking a Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) increase over 2017, and a 17% increase since just 2015. 798 of course this year to improve our skills and techniques with those calls were fire-type responses, ranging from 25 working dealing with children and their special needs. University structure fires to 216 false alarms and 129 hazardous-type calls such Hospitals has also provided us with specific pediatric as carbon monoxide alarms and gasoline spills, plus an additional equipment and bags intended to improve our care to 400 various fire responses. That means the remaining 3,826 calls children. were for Emergency Medical (EMS) calls. Since EMS is such an important part of our job and is such an important function of the Improving on Trauma care fire department, we spend a lot of time in training and preparation in z Medics are also taking focused trauma training this year and order to insure we are able to provide the best possible care to our updating our skills in dealing with trauma patients. patients. Improving our Geriatric care We are working on several items right now to improve the care we provide to the community. These include: z Medics are taking a specialized course for dealing with and treating our senior citizens. This allows us to be able to Increasing Cardiac Arrest Survival Rates identify some of the needs for our geriatric citizens. z The PulsePoint App is available on your Android and IOS These are just some of the programs we hope to provide to the phones. When the Kent portion of this App is up and running Kent Community this year in order to better serve all of our citizens this summer, you will be able to select and view Kent Fire from Children to our Senior Citizens. Department calls. So whenever a cardiac arrest event takes place in a public area near you, a notification will be sent to your phone, alerting you that CPR is needed. The address 2019 – The Year of the River! will be given along with the location of the nearest AED 2019 marks the 50th anniversary of the Cuyahoga River fire that (defibrillator). So if you are trained in CPR, we encourage reached national attention and sparked a global conversation on the you to download this App and start interacting with it now. need for environmental conservation and protection. Throughout If you are not trained in CPR, please look into this by going to 2019 there are numerous events and programs that strive to the American Heart Association. educate the Kent community on the Cuyahoga River fire's legacy and z more importantly recognize the efforts of community organizations Hands-only CPR is and members that have worked hard to improve the water quality of another option to teach the river and preserve it for future generations. Below is a list of large numbers of the events and programs in 2019: public how to save lives. th We will be teaching 13 Annual 'Who's Your Mama?' Earth Day and Environmental Film Festival Hands-only CPR this th year at several of the · Environmental Film Festival, Sunday, April 7 , 2-5pm, KSU KIVA Auditorium downtown events. This technique teaches the public how to th identify when someone is in need, this life-saving procedure · Main Street Block Party, Saturday, April 20 , 11-4pm, is quicker and is easier to instruct. Downtown Kent Produced by Standing Rock Cultural Arts. More information z The Fire Department is working on updated training for our at standingrock.net and/or whosyourmama.org 911 dispatchers to help recognize when a patient is in cardiac arrest. The dispatchers will still provide instructions Kent's 29th Annual Cuyahoga River Day - May 18th to the caller on how to perform CPR. However additional River Day is an opportunity to spend some time along the Cuyahoga instructions will be provided such as where the nearest AED River! Join Kent Parks & Recreation, Kent Environmental Council, is located. and other s for family friendly craft and nature activities at the Haymaker Farmers’ Market in downtown Kent. Free native tree z We are joining the nation-wide CARES (Cardiac Arrest seedlings and seeds will be available. Davey Resource Group will Registry to Enhance Survival) http://www.ohiocares.net/. host an electrofishing demonstration at Tannery Park and Kent State Ohio just joined this non-profit registry, whose goal is to University Crooked River Adventures will start their season of “improve out-of hospital cardiac arrest survival rates by kayak, canoe tube rentals and trips. For more information, contact providing communities, EMS providers and hospitals with KP&R at 330.673.8897 or visit www.kentparksandrec.com. vital data and resources”. We will be able to compare Continued on page 22

Tree City Bulletin 20 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin

Main Street Kent Update Art & Wine Festival – Presented in partnership with the Kent State Putt Around Downtown – On Sat., April 6, from 1pm to 4pm University College of the Arts, this enjoy miniature golf at select businesses in downtown Kent! event will take place on Sat., June 1, Each putt putt hole will be uniquely designed by the individual from 12pm to 9pm at Hometown business. Each ticket holder will check in at the Venice Café and Bank Plaza and surrounding streets. receive a commemorative golf ball, scorecard and pencil, ticket Featuring ten Ohio wineries, many for raffle prize drawings, and a drink ticket to use at the final hole local artists, musicians and foodies, the Venice Cafe. Play at your leisure from 1 to 4pm, (do some this 13th annual event will be lots of shopping, have lunch and drinks along the way!) then join us for a fun. For information including an an drink and raffle prize drawings at the Venice at artist application: 4pm. A great way to spend a Saturday afternoon http://www.mainstreetkent.org/events/art- in Kent! wine-festival/. We're always looking to welcome new artists to the show. Clean Up Kent – On Sat., April 27, some serious spring cleaning will happen in Wizardly World of Kent – This magical downtown Kent. All are invited to help clean, event returns on Sat., July 27, from 10am to and supplies will be provided at the Destination 8pm. Costume contests, live wizard chess, a Kent Visitor Centre. Just check our Facebook scavenger hunt, magic shows, potion classes, page for details closer to the date. and other entertainment, will be featured at www.facebook.com/mainstreetkent various venues throughout downtown Kent. Dozens of magic-themed vendors will line the Seven Courses of Kent – On Sun., April 28, streets for a fun-filled, wizardly, magical day. Many downtown join us for a delectable dinner at Treno Ristorante, with dishes businesses will offer special menu items, activities, photo served by seven Kent restaurants, all in one place! Each dish will opportunities and more. Check out the Wizardly World of Kent be paired with a beer or wine selection. On a day when the event page on Facebook: restaurant is normally closed, enjoy this special event www.facebook.com/wizardlyworldofkent/ highlighting some of the best food in Kent. More info will be available closer to the event date at www.mainstreetkent.org. For more information about Main Street Kent, our downtown businesses, events, and more, please visit www.mainstreetkent.org or call 330.677.8000. Also get daily updates via social media on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram Tips for Discarding your Unwanted Be sure to scratch off all personal information on Medications your prescription labels Have you ever wondered what to do with your unused, unwanted before you throw them or expired medications? Don't allow your medicine cabinet to away to ensure that your become cluttered with unusable, unnecessary medications. There health information are easy, safe ways to dispose of all kinds of medications. remains private. One option is to mix unused pills, capsules and liquid medications with an undesirable substance such as kitty litter or used coffee DO NOT flush unused medications unless the label grounds. Place the mixture inside of a sealable plastic bag or other specifically instructs you to do so! container, and throw the sealed container away with your weekly If you are still unsure of how to dispose of your unused trash. medications, ask your local pharmacist. Another option is to use the 24-hour drop box designated for Source: How to dispose of unused medicines. (2013). unwanted medications located behind the Kent Police Department US Food and Drug Administrative Home Page. Retrieved at 301 S. Depeyster Street. This drop box allows residents September 19. 2013, from anonymity when disposing of unwanted/unused medications. The http://www.fda.gov/forconsumers/consumerupdates/ucm101653.h drop box does not accept injectable solutions or needles, nor does tml it accept illegal substances such marijuana or methamphetamines.

Tree City Bulletin 21 The TREE CITY Bulletin

Precinct Election Officials Needed Earth Day Seedling Give-a-Way The Portage County Board of Elections is looking for individuals 33 years and counting! The who would like to be part of the democratic process by City of Kent will receive the becoming Precinct Election Officials (PEO)s). As part of our National Arbor Day Foundation's “Tree City ongoing efforts, we are reaching out in search of honest, reliable, USA” award again this year and community-minded individuals. marking the City's thirty On Election Day, nearly 600 citizens are needed to staff our 129 third year of earning the precincts. Without our PEOs, we simply cannot hold elections. national recognition. They are present to make sure our elections are fair, impartial, Mayor, Jerry Fiala has and conducted according to Ohio law. proclaimed April 26, 2019 Arbor Day, urging all To become a PEO, you must be registered to vote in Portage citizens to support efforts County, attend a training class, and have transportation to your to protect and nurture our trees and urban forest not just for assigned located. Election Day hours are 5:45 am until all the beauty they provide but for the benefits they give our necessary work is completed after the polls close at 7:30 pm. residents and community. Those that serve as PEOs receive $120. To keep the City's tree canopy growing, the City's Shade Tree The elections for 2019 occur on Commission will host a seedling giveaway during the Who's May 7th and November 5th. Your Mama Earth Day Block Party Celebration on Saturday, April 20, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (or until supplies run out). To sign up or for more information, This year, 20 potted seedlings will be available during the please contact the Portage County giveaway and are limited to one person on a first come, first Board of Elections at 330.297.3512 or served basis. Learn the difference in the species, how to plant 330.297.3515 or visit our website: them correctly and the best place for planting them. The City www.co.portage.oh.us/board-elections. Arborist will be available to assist with the seedlings and answer questions. Our hopes are to encourage the planting of young trees to help keep the canopy of Kent “green.”

Continued from page 20 Xtinguish Torch Fest Thursday, June 20th Edith Chase Symposium th The Xtinguish Torch Fest is a regional Friday, June 7 , Program: Resurrection River collaboration and includes a series of local Activities begin Friday afternoon at 4 p.m. to celebrate Ohio's Crooked ceremonies along the entire length of the River with selected poetry readings at the Wick Poetry Center of Kent Cuyahoga River to commemorate the 50th State University. At 7 p.m. Jim White, former director of Sustainable anniversary of the river fire on June 22, 1969. Infrastructure Programs, will present “Legacy and Lessons from the The first festival in the series will be held in Cuyahoga River” at the Cene Lecture Hall of Kent State's College of downtown Kent! Beginning at 4:00pm the Architecture and Environmental Design. Doors open at 6:30 PM. Public festival will include art installations, food trucks, and live music with attendance at this event is welcome. There is no charge for admission. For musical acts such as Alex Bevan, the Chardon Polka Band, and more! more details, visit the website at http://www.edithchasesymposium.org/. A 'Passing of the Torch' ceremony will begin at 6:00pm in Riveredge The Perils of Plastic Pollution Park and include community members, local officials, environmental Wednesday, June 19th groups, kayakers, and others. This ceremony will culminate with the In the spirit of reducing single-use plastics in our community, Dr. Sherri unveiling and dedication of a commemorative relief as well as Mason, Sustainability Coordinator at Penn State-Behrend and 2018 highlight the Cuyahoga River as a national Water Trail! Partners for Heinz Award Recipient in Public Policy, will present on the 'Perils of this event include the City of Kent, Kent Parks & Recreation Plastic Pollution' from 6-8pm at the Kent Free Library. This event is Department, Kent State University WICK Poetry Center, made possible by the Kent Environmental Council, Portage Soil & Water Hometown Bank, Main Street Kent, Kent Environmental Council, Conservation District, and the Portage County Health Department. For Portage County Soil & Water Conservation District, and others. For more details, contact Portage SWCD at 330-235-6815 or visit the more details, contact the City of Kent at 330-676-7500 or visit the website at portageswcd.org. event website at http://xtinguishcelebration.com/.

Tree City Bulletin 22 Spring 2019 The TREE CITY Bulletin Income Tax Information All Kent residents 18 years or older MUST file a City of Kent income tax return, even if no tax is owed. Persons who are retired need to file a final return and write “retired” on it. No further returns will be due unless the retiree returns to work. Income tax returns are due (must be postmarked on or by) Monday, April 15th, 2019. Returns received after April 15th will be considered late and may be subject to a penalty, even if no tax is due. “Resident” is defined as an individual whose legal residence is in Kent or who lived in Kent for 30 days or more in any 90-day period during the 2018 calendar year. The following people MUST file income tax returns and pay any tax due, even if they are non-residents: u Persons who own rental property in Kent u Persons who operate a business in Kent u Real estate agents who work for brokers in Kent, even if they sold no property in Kent u Anyone who receives salary, wages, commissions, or other compensation for work done or services rendered in Kent, if the full amount of Kent's 2.25% income tax has not been withheld from that compensation.

Certain types of income are not taxable. These types include. u Interest Credit Card Service Fee Effective October 1, 2018 u Dividends u Active military pay Beginning October 1, 2018, taxpayers who elect to pay their u Pensions municipal income tax bills by credit or debit card will incur a u Social security 2.75% service charge. This fee is charged by a third party vendor u Workers compensation per credit card transaction and is not paid to RITA. Please note u Unemployment benefits that this service charge applies only to credit or debit card u Welfare payments transactions. Taxpayers electing to pay by check or via ACH will u Medicare not incur this service charge. To file your City of Kent return with the Regional Income Tax Agency (RITA) for Residents and Businesses, RITA has the following FREE online services. RITA E-File: A quick, easy and secure way to file your municipal income taxes online with R.I.T.A. at www.ritaohio.com Individuals Are Provided The Following Features u A simple step by step calculation of taxes or refunds u Ability to file even if you moved in 2018 u Electronic transfer of refunds into checking or savings accounts u Pay by credit card or ACH (electronic debit of checking or savings) u Delay payment of taxes- file as early as you like and set up ACH payment anytime before April 15th u Here's what you need to E-File - Social Security numbers for you and your spouse - W-2 forms from all employers - 1099 forms and Federal Schedules C, E, & F - Date of move for residents that moved in 2018 - Bank Routing and Account Numbers- for a fast refund or to pay electronically Employers Have The Following Choices: u Monthly or Quarterly withholding returns - Fill in a simple form online, or - Attach a payroll file u Annual Withholding Reconciliation returns - Upload W-2 data with online filing, or - Save W-2 data to CD and mail to R.I.T.A. You must complete an E-Registration to utilize any of the on-line services. Registration must be complete 15 days before due date of April 15, 2019. Income Tax Division personnel will assist you with your Kent City Income Tax Returns at NO charge. The Income Tax Division is located at the Service Administration Complex at 930 Overholt Road. Office hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 am until 4:30 pm. If you wish assistance with your Kent City Income Tax Return, please bring all necessary tax documents, such as W-2's, 1099's, Schedule C, Schedule E etc., with you to the Income Tax Division. If you have any questions please call the Income Tax Division at 330.678.8103. Tree City Bulletin 23 Spring 2019 City Manager’s Office 301 S. Depeyster Kent, Ohio 44240

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