Mayor announces victory against ODOT on Route 2 litigation after lengthy battle

Amherst officials are urging residents to brace for higher electricity bills this summer as demand surges during the hot months. During the July 14 meeting, concerns were raised about increased energy usage, with plans to encourage residents to conserve electricity during peak hours. Mayor noted that the community should expect significant spikes in bills due to rising transmission and demand charges, which are beyond local control.

In a proactive approach, the city plans to implement strategies such as turning off unnecessary lights and limiting the use of high-energy appliances during critical hours to mitigate costs. The mayor emphasized the importance of community cooperation in reducing energy consumption to avoid a repeat of previous years when bills soared unexpectedly.

On a more positive note, the meeting also highlighted a significant legal victory for Amherst. After years of litigation with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) regarding Route 2, the courts ruled in favor of the city. This ruling is seen as a major step forward in ensuring that ODOT adheres to previously established agreements. The mayor expressed gratitude for the support from local legislators, particularly Nathan Manning, who played a crucial role in advocating for legislative changes to support the city's position.

As the city prepares to enter executive session to discuss ongoing litigation, the administration's reports were accepted unanimously, signaling a collaborative effort among council members to address both immediate and long-term challenges facing the community.