The Chillicothe City Council meeting on May 29, 2025, focused on several key topics, including an upcoming public hearing on the tax budget and community engagement initiatives aimed at increasing voter awareness.

City officials announced a public hearing scheduled for June 9 at 6:45 PM, just before the next council meeting, to discuss the tax budget. This hearing is expected to provide residents with an opportunity to voice their opinions and ask questions regarding the city's financial plans.

During the meeting, audience members expressed their concerns and suggestions. John Thacker, a local resident, highlighted his disappointment with a recent ordinance vote and called for transparency in council decisions. He mentioned ongoing efforts to gather signatures for a petition related to the ordinance, indicating that community members are actively seeking to influence local governance.

Tana Seidriss proposed a "Coffee with Council" initiative to foster better communication between residents and council members. She emphasized the need for increased voter education, particularly following a low voter turnout of just 6.45% in the recent May election. Seidriss aims to create a program that helps residents understand the voting process without promoting any specific political agenda.

AJ Tanner supported Seidriss's initiative and suggested collaboration with the League of Women Voters to enhance voter education efforts. He also introduced a transparency initiative, proposing that council members fill out observer reports at meetings to track attendance and citizen engagement.

In a positive note, Jamie Brown reported on the success of a youth workforce development program funded by the city, where all 11 participants are set to graduate. Brown emphasized the importance of investing in youth programs, linking them to broader economic benefits for the community.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued community involvement and collaboration between residents and council members to address local issues effectively. The council's commitment to transparency and public engagement appears to be a priority moving forward, with several initiatives aimed at enhancing communication and participation among Chillicothe residents.