Here are a few things happening in Bexley that (mostly) aren’t otherwise covered in this week’s Blast. Have a great weekend! – BK
I’ve been fielding questions about the City’s position on Bexley City Schools’ facilities plan and I wanted to share some thoughts here. We partner with the district every day – on safety, infrastructure, shared spaces and more. One thing I believe to my core – our school district’s success is intrinsic to Bexley’s success. Quality facilities, paired with exceptional educators, help ensure outstanding learning environments for generations to come. Details of the Districts’ plan are still being refined, but I’m confident that they will both satisfy the need for new facilities while continuing to provide quality open space for our kids and our community. Over the past 5+ years – in partnership with the Bexley Community Foundation, ODNR, and the State Capital Fund – as a City we have overseen the largest expansion and renovation of city-owned parkland and green space in generations, and our commitment to open space remains unwavering. It’s a commitment the schools have long shared on their own property through their stewardship of active and open spaces, investment in open spaces of the future, and generous cooperation on facilities with our recreation department. I encourage residents to stay engaged and extend patience to a process that is weighing multiple perspectives. I trust the district’s leadership and look forward to seeing their planning process move forward thoughtfully.
Next week, I’ll be participating on a panel regarding riparian setbacks at the Central Ohio Greenways forum. Even though Bexley’s law protecting Alum Creek was passed over a decade ago – following the recommendation of the initial Land Use Strategy and as part of a consensus-building community process – its passage and implementation are still notable in our region. Proud to represent Bexley and the careful planning and conservation work we did to do our part in protecting Central Ohio’s waterways.
This week’s One Bexley Story Slam was breathtaking – five storytellers, five unforgettable reflections on resilience. Rebecca Ness shared a story of trauma and the miracles that saved and sustained her; Alissha Mitchell spoke of profound loss and of unexpected abundance; Jesiah Turner opened up about living with lifelong debilitating illness; Jason Fine offered a moving perspective on growing up with – and daily conquering – Tourette’s Syndrome; and Donte Woods-Spikes reflected on helping a friend complete her bucket list in her final months. Each story was potent and deeply human. We’ll share video soon – and we’re already looking forward to next year’s Story Slam.
This Sunday I’ll be helping cut the ribbon at 10:00 am at the new “Bexley Links” indoor virtual golf club at 3018 East Broad Street. While this is just outside of Bexley – it’s a fun new amenity for our community, and I’m excited to welcome this Bexley-owned business to the area. Join me and check out what’s on offer at the “Links”!
BONUS THING
Four Things Exclusive: While I’m sure that you’ve read the State of the Community article above, we’re excited to welcome the Bexley High School Symphonia and Vocal Ensemble who will perform Lift Every Voice, also known as the Black National Anthem, in honor of Black History Month. I’m looking forward to listening to this very talented group kick-off this years address.
