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Council OKs application for NatureWorks grants and hears plan for FC Cincinnati "mini pitch"; approves city‑hall landscaping

3503925 · May 25, 2025

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Summary

Council authorized staff to apply for ODNR NatureWorks grants, discussed a proposed FC Cincinnati mini soccer pitch in Riverside 2 (projected installation September 2025, privately funded) and approved $12,157 for City Hall landscaping.

Milford City Council on Tuesday authorized the city manager to apply for Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) NatureWorks grants and discussed a privately funded FC Cincinnati “mini pitch” to be installed in Riverside 2 this fall. The council also approved a $12,157 contract for landscaping improvements at City Hall.

The NatureWorks program provides matching assistance for park acquisition and development; City Manager Benjamin Gunderson said the program typically uses a 75/20/5 split (applicant/county/other matches) and that the city would identify suitable projects before the June 1 application deadline. Councilmembers suggested possible targets including resurfacing tennis courts at Zim, adding pickleball lines and rehabilitating play equipment at Clartoma.

On a related parks item, Gunderson presented a partnership offer from FC Cincinnati and its construction partner (referred to as Moats) to install a fully enclosed, turf mini soccer pitch in Riverside 2. Gunderson said FC Cincinnati will cover the construction costs (the city’s staff estimated the installation at roughly $150,000–$200,000) and asked council for feedback. The club requested a temporary gravel driveway and optional landscaping assistance; Gunderson said construction would be timed for a September 2025 start with the facility available by late September or early October. Council agreed to accept a letter of intent to be presented at the June 17 meeting.

Separately the council approved an ordinance to contract with Outside Influence LLC for City Hall landscaping ($12,157). Gunderson said staff reduced the bid by using internal crews for some plant removal and expects the work to improve the appearance of the municipal building.

Ending: The NatureWorks resolution passed; staff will pursue grant options and present a letter of intent for the mini‑pitch at the June meeting. The City Hall landscaping contract was approved unanimously.