A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing traffic safety concerns within Greenfield. Discussions focused on the need for immediate and long-term strategies to manage traffic effectively, particularly on streets like Bane Road and Silver Street, where speeding and inadequate traffic control devices have been highlighted by residents. The council explored data-driven approaches to identify problem areas, with Jason Haskins tasked with assessing the streets. The use of solar radar signs and trailers for traffic monitoring was discussed as a cost-effective enforcement strategy, though the absence of the “dummy car” due to vehicle shortages was noted as a limitation. Concerns were also raised over limited personnel following the loss of a dedicated traffic enforcement officer, which has led to a decline in citations issued.

Further complicating matters, the council acknowledged that a streamlined approach to handling complaints about speeding and safety issues is lacking, with various departments such as the police, fire, and parking commissions receiving reports through different channels. This lack of coordination has made it challenging to prioritize resources and address complaints effectively. The mayor expressed satisfaction in discussing this issue, emphasizing the need for improved communication and data-driven decision-making. A resident’s complaint about Lamp Black Road’s traffic concerns, contrasted with data showing high accident rates at the Rotary, underscored the necessity of prioritizing resources based on actual data rather than perceptions.

The introduction of new firefighters Avery Nye and Alex Terrell was a celebrated event during the meeting. They were sworn in by the mayor at a ceremony that underscored the rigorous process of becoming a firefighter and the significance of their new badge numbers, 129 and 130, respectively. The fire department reported on the final inspection and impending delivery of a new ladder truck costing approximately $1.83 million, as well as the acquisition of a used electric vehicle aimed at reducing operational costs. However, staffing challenges were noted, with two members set to retire due to injuries and others on extended leave. The department aims to address these gaps by training three new firefighters at the fire academy, inviting public and commission members to their graduation ceremony as a gesture of community engagement and support.

Public smoking regulations, particularly concerning marijuana, were another major focus of the meeting. Complaints from residents about the pervasive smell of marijuana downtown led to a discussion on the inconsistency in enforcing smoking ordinances. Despite parks being designated as no-smoking areas, receptacles have been placed there, which some council members perceived as contradictory. The practicality of enforcing fines for smoking violations was questioned, with concerns about the potential backlash from the community. The council considered collaborating with the Franklin County Business Association to develop an educational program promoting safe smoking practices away from children and families. Emphasis was placed on balancing public space maintenance with respect for individual rights, with suggestions to enhance signage and awareness to discourage smoking in family-friendly areas.

The council also touched on broader public safety updates, noting an increase in time spent on calls and a decrease in incident reports, while accident reports and arrests have risen. Recruitment and training efforts were discussed, with one officer still in the academy and a proposal to hire candidates before they are sworn in as officers. This approach aims to provide insights into candidates’ capabilities before committing resources to their training.