City to Notify Residents Before Digging Ditches

Paul Hunter was — partially because no one told him it was going to happen.

Service Director Dano Koehler previously said it is common to widen a ditch without the resident's knowledge, as it is the city's responsibility to maintain them.

But after Stow residents complained, Koehler told Stow City Council June 20 that the policy will be changed and residents will receive notification 24 hours in advance.

The service director said Cuyahoga Falls does not notify residents, but Kent and Hudson do and now Stow will too.

Koehler said residents will be notified with a door hanger or a phone call. 

Council President Janet D'Antonio said a letter in the mail would be useful as well. 

Council member Matt Riehl said he appreciates the change in policy and said not letting the residents know "is what started this whole thing."

Although notification will be given, Koehler noted it wasn't to "negotiate the depth of the ditch."

Discussion on ditches is expected to continue during the June 23 council meeting. Legislation will be presented for the city to .