As another year comes to a close, I want to extend my sincere appreciation for everything you do to serve our community. The holiday season in Hamilton is always something special, and this year was no exception. From festive Holly Jolly Hamilton events to 17STRONG neighborhood gatherings, your efforts helped create memorable experiences that brought joy and connection to residents across the city.
We also saw our team rise to the occasion during challenging winter weather. While many were home celebrating with family, our Public Works crews, first responders, and essential staff were out in the elements ensuring our streets were safe and our city kept moving Your dedication and teamwork truly embody the spirit of public service.
I hope you were each able to find time to rest and enjoy the season with loved ones. As we step into the new year, we do so with optimism and focus, ready to advance the City’s strategic priorities and continue building on the progress we’ve made together.
Thank you for your hard work, professionalism, and commitment to Hamilton’s success. I’m proud of our collective accomplishments and excited for what lies ahead in the year to come.
With Gratitude,
How COH is tackling blight in Hamilton
Hamilton’s progress in addressing blight is the result of years of intentional focus on neighborhoods, collaboration, and follow-through, and it would not be possible without the dedication of you, our employees across the organization.
Since 2019, teams from multiple departments have worked together to strengthen how we identify, track, and address problem properties. In 2021, this effort expanded into a comprehensive citywide evaluation of more than 21,600 residential and commercial structures, with each building receiving a letter grade from A to F, similar to a school report card. This grading system helps us clearly see which properties are stable and which need attention, allowing us to set priorities with improvement, not demolition, as the goal whenever possible.
Because of this sustained effort, the number of D- and F-rated properties has dropped significantly, while continued monitoring ensures that properties don’t quietly slip into disrepair. These results reflect years of work by inspectors, attorneys, neighborhood staff, firefighters, health officials, and administrative teams who have stayed committed, both in the field and behind the scenes, to protecting neighborhoods and supporting residents.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this ongoing effort and continues to put the fight on blight in Hamilton every day.
Hamilton is growing greener!
Exciting news for our city’s green spaces! Thanks to the generous support of the Harry T. Wilks Family Foundation, our Forestry Department is planting 178 new 5-gallon trees across 20 Hamilton Parks Conservancy and City-owned green spaces.
This tree-planting initiative is part of a 5-year plan (2025–2029) designed to make Hamilton stronger, more sustainable, and even more beautiful for residents and visitors alike. From providing shade on hot summer days to improving air quality and enhancing our neighborhoods, these trees will make a lasting impact on our community.
A huge thank-you to everyone involved in making this initiative possible! Your dedication helps Hamilton continue to grow, literally and figuratively, into a greener, healthier, and more vibrant city.
Hamilton Parks Conservancy launches Adopt-a-Park program
The Hamilton Parks Conservancy (HPC) has launched a new Adopt-a-Park initiative, inviting local organizations, businesses, and community groups to help keep Hamilton’s parks clean and welcoming.
The program started with Inspiration Studios’ Inclusive Wellness program, whose clients will take part in downtown park clean-ups as part of their wellness activities. Now, HPC is opening the opportunity citywide, allowing groups to “adopt” a park and tailor their involvement, whether through litter pickup, hosting community events, or light landscaping.
HPC supports participating groups with supplies, guidance, and volunteer resources. Who knows… maybe your group could even earn a special sign recognizing your park adoption!
Interested? Email info@hamiltonparks.net to get involved and help keep Hamilton’s 42 parks vibrant for everyone.
Bridgeport Elementary students help bring a new bike rack to Jim Grimm Park
Thanks to the creativity and dedication of Bridgeport Elementary students, Jim Grimm Park now has a brand-new bike rack conveniently located right off the bike trail! This project, funded through the 17STRONG-Hamilton Nanogrant program, reflects a student-driven idea to make the park more welcoming and accessible for everyone who enjoys riding
Nanogrants are designed to give 5th grade students hands-on experience in community impact. Each year, the 17STRONG Nongrant Subcommittee selects two elementary schools to participate. With a total budget of $5,000 ($2,500 per school) in 2026, students are guided through the process from idea conception to project implementation.
The journey begins in the first quarter of the school year, when the committee meets with school administration and teachers to explain the program and expectations. Students then participate in a morning of presentations, learning about 17STRONG, the Nanogrant program, and how to pitch their ideas. This helps set the students up for real-world experiences!
This year’s Bridgeport Elementary students demonstrated how thoughtful ideas and teamwork can make a real difference in Hamilton neighborhoods Their new bike rack is a small but meaningful addition that will benefit residents and park visitors for years to come.
Hamilton welcomes major investments from global manufacturing leaders
One of the biggest wins of 2025 goes to our Economic Development team, with the announcement that two global advanced manufacturing companies are expanding their presence in Hamilton.
SencorpWhite has selected Hamilton as its new U.S. headquarters, bringing 230 new jobs and $20 million in payroll. The company, a leader in automated storage solutions for medical, retail, and manufacturing industries, cited Hamilton’s central location, strong manufacturing base, and deep engineering talent as key factors in its decision. SencorpWhite is also relocating highly automated operations from Sweden to Ohio, expanding global production and accelerating innovation.
Salvagnini America, the North American hub for Italy-based Salvagnini Group, is expanding its Hamilton facility, adding 28 new jobs and $2.8 million in payroll while retaining 118 existing positions. The expansion will improve the customer experience center and office space, enhancing operations and employee resources.
These investments reinforce Hamilton’s position as a growing hub for innovative industrial technology and demonstrate the city’s ongoing appeal to global companies.
From Hamilton to the National Sta Breweries win big and make Forbes list!
Hamilton is making its mark on the national brewing scene! Third Eye Brewing Company Hamilton and Municipal Brew Works teamed up to create Route 4 Revive-Ale, a collaboration that earned a gold medal in the collaboration category at the 2025 Great American Beer Festival in Denver. Organized by the Brewers Association, this festival is the largest professional beer competition in the country, featuring more than 9,000 entries from over 2,000 breweries nationwide Whoa!
Third Eye Brewing co-owner and head brewer, Kelly Montgomery, is known for his skill with chocolate in beer, and this collaboration was no exception. Route 4 Revive-Ale blended a subtle chili heat with rich chocolate notes, surprising even seasoned judges with its perfect balance and flavor.
This gold medal win was just one of many honors for Third Eye Brewing, which was also named Brewery of the Year for the second time in three years Other award-winning beers included:
Gold: Pumpkin beer Gourd Darn It! and Scotch ale Higher Consciousness
Silver: Coffee stout Wired Euphoria
Bronze: Collaboration with Narrow Path Brewing Mounds of Importance
Adding to the excitement, Forbes recently featured Route 4 Revive-Ale in its article “These 8 Beers Made 2025 A Great Year For Beer,” putting Hamilton craft brewing on the national map. This impressive showing highlights Hamilton’s growing reputation for innovation, creativity, and excellence in craft brewing.
Hamilton welcomes new shops & restaurants
Crafted, a men’s pop-up shop from Sara and Dave Vallandingham, is now open at 9 N Third St , just around the corner from their popular Sara’s House boutique. Like Sara’s House, Crafted will be refreshed every weekend with new items, offering men’s fashion, home goods, and unique gifts. While focused on men, the shop also features artwork, custom lighting by Dave Vallandingham, and flannel shirts that are popular among female shoppers looking for gifts for the men in their lives.
Meanwhile, Lynn’s Freedom Cafe has opened in the Lindenwald neighborhood at 2535 Pleasant Ave, bringing a patriotic-themed menu of comfort food to the community. Owner Cassandra Boyd launched the restaurant in honor of her late father, a decorated Green Beret, and aims to create a welcoming space for first responders and members of the U.S. military. The menu features breakfast favorites like omelets, pancakes, and biscuits with gravy, alongside specialties such as the Sergeant’s Scramble and Majors Mayhem
These new businesses highlight Hamilton’s vibrant small business scene and the creativity and dedication of local entrepreneurs.
Making the season brighter, together
We’d like to thank everyone who participated in our 28th year supporting the Salvation Army Angel Tree program. Thanks to your generosity, gifts were collected for 93 Angels this year!
All donated items, along with a monetary contribution and eight additional toys, were delivered to the Salvation Army to help bring holiday joy to children and families throughout our community. Your continued support is what makes this program successful year after year, and we’re grateful for the compassion and teamwork shown across the organization.
A special thank you to Peggy Bange & Ashley Graves for making sure COH is part of the program each year, and to Dan Arthur for assisting with the delivery of the angel bags and helping ensure everything reached its destination.
Historic moments at HFD Station 22
December marked a proud first for the Hamilton Fire Department as Tower 22 was staffed by three women, a historic milestone for both the department and the city. Through dedication, extensive training, and proven performance, these firefighters earned their assignments and exemplify the professionalism, skill, and commitment that define HFD’s service to the community
Pictured left to right are FF / PM Julia Beiser (2 years of service), Lt. Heather Garcia (23 years of service), and FF / PM Savannah Strack (5 years of service). We are incredibly proud of their service and the example they set for future generations of firefighters.
This milestone builds on other important moments at Station 22 In November, city leaders, along with state and federal officials, gathered for the dedication of the Baby Box (newborn safety incubator) at Hamilton Fire Station 22, located at 77 Pershing Ave. This installation marked the first Baby Box in Butler County, further reinforcing the department’s commitment to safety, compassion, and service for our community’s residents.
Powering Hamilton: Public Utilities Week was a win
Public Utilities Week in October was a big success, giving our community a chance to learn more about the locally owned public power and natural gas services that keep Hamilton running every day.
The highlight of the week was Community Appreciation Day, where residents enjoyed free food, educational displays, touch-a-truck experiences, and giveaways. A huge thank you to our Infrastructure team, who fired up the grills, helped host activities, and made the day welcoming and fun for everyone.
We also loved seeing the creativity from local students during the Hamilton Utilities Kids Coloring Contest, with entries from Pre-K through 6th grade proudly displayed in the City Building and shared online.
Thank you to everyone who helped plan and support Public Utilities Week. Your work made it a meaningful celebration of the
Infrastructure conquers the seasons
From falling pumpkins to falling snow, our Infrastructure crews truly conquer the seasons!
In October, our Utility team rolled out the big truck for Immanuel Lutheran School’s 3rd annual Pumpkin Drop, a hands-on STEM challenge where students tested their creativity (and engineering skills!) to protect pumpkins from a serious drop With pillows, homemade parachutes, packing peanuts, and plenty of ingenuity, it’s no surprise this event continues to be a student favorite
Fast forward to December, when Hamilton was hit with about 5 inches of snow. With a fleet of just 17 multi-purpose trucks, crews quickly shifted gears, pausing leaf collection to complete an all-hands-ondeck transition. Each truck takes about 1.5 hours to swap equipment and prep for snow response, but that effort ensures our roads are safe when it matters most
No matter the season, our Infrastructure team is ready to adapt, respond, and keep Hamilton moving.
Sharing the work behind the work
Dozens of students from the Hamilton City Schools ESL Ambassadors Program visited the water plant for a behind-the-scenes tour, where they learned how water makes its way from the plant to their taps and explored future career opportunities in the water industry It was a great opportunity to inspire curiosity and show the next generation just how essential, and exciting, this work can be
That same commitment to education and safety was shown as members of the Utility Department led a safety training exercise for the Hamilton Fire Department, reviewing best practices and precautions when interacting with electrical wires. The training highlighted the strong partnership between departments and our shared goal of keeping Hamilton residents, and first responders, safe
From student engagement to cross-department collaboration, these efforts reflect how learning and teamwork strengthen the services we provide every day.
Grant funding fuels future improvements
We recently secured major grant funding to support transportation improvements and critical water infrastructure projects across the community
The OKI Regional Council of Governments awarded nearly $6 million for transportation and connectivity improvements, including:
$800,000 – Park Avenue Road Resurfacing (2026): Improvements to one of Hamilton’s key corridors.
$3,999,072 – North B Street, Rhea Street & Gordon Avenue: Intersection improvements tied to the North Hamilton Crossing project and future river crossing.
$998,441 – RiversEdge to Black Street Trail Connection: A new link connecting the Beltline Trail to the Great Miami River Recreational Trail
In addition, we received a $500,000 Ohio EPA grant to replace lead service lines, which we’re matching with $500,000 coming from Hamilton coffers. Together, this $1M investment will address both public and private portions of lead service lines, improving water quality and public health.
These grants represent important investments in safety, mobility, and infrastructure as Hamilton continues to move forward.
A new drop in Hamilton’s story
Hamilton’s identity as the City of Sculpture continues to grow with the installation of a striking new piece in front of the Soldiers, Sailors and Pioneers Monument.
Designed in the shape of a water droplet, the natural stone sculpture stands 8 feet, 1 inch tall and weighs 11,000 pounds, a nod to Hamilton’s deep history with water and water quality.
Artist Devin Devine drew inspiration from the city itself, choosing a form that reflects the river, the community, and the role water has played in shaping Hamilton over time. Devine shared that it was an honor to place the sculpture in such a prominent, hightraffic location.
Hamilton was officially recognized as “The City of Sculpture” by the State of Ohio on August 16, 2000. Today, that vision lives on through the City of Sculpture organization, with more than 60 sculptures placed throughout the community, each adding another layer to Hamilton’s story.
Honoring a Hamilton legend
Hamilton is celebrating one of its most iconic hometown heroes with the installation of a new Ohio Historical Marker honoring Joe Nuxhall, the Reds legend affectionately known as “Hamilton Joe” and the “Ol’ Lefthander.”
The marker recognizes L.J. Smith Park, where Nuxhall was first discovered and began his remarkable baseball journey. It highlights not only his historic debut and professional career with the Cincinnati Reds, but also his deep commitment to community and charitable work One side of the marker reflects his early life and famous rise to the majors, while the other honors his lasting impact off the field, including The Nuxhall Foundation, which supports the Joe Nuxhall Miracle League Field and local high school scholarships.
Nuxhall, who played for the Reds between 1944 and 1966, was a two-time National League All-Star and remains a member of the Reds Hall of Fame. After retiring from baseball in 1967, he became one of the most recognizable voices in Reds history as a longtime radio broadcaster, famously signing off with, “Rounding third and headed for home.”
The marker is located at L J Smith Park, outside the Joe Nuxhall Baseball Fields, serving as a lasting tribute to a legend whose roots and legacy remain firmly planted in Hamilton.
Hamilton Welcomes the Holidays
Jefferson Posada
Celebrating history, honor, & community in the Riverview neighborhood
Last fall, 17STRONG and the Riverview neighborhood hosted two meaningful events that brought residents together to celebrate local history, service, and community pride.
In October, Hamilton residents participated in the first-ever Riverview Heritage Walk, exploring the neighborhood through guided stops at historic churches, schools, and community landmarks. Along the way, participants learned stories and fun facts that highlighted both well-known and often forgotten pieces of Riverview and Second Ward history The walk concluded with a community social hour, creating space for neighbors and visitors to connect while celebrating the neighborhood’s rich cultural legacy.
Building on that spirit of reflection and unity, dozens gathered in November at Bailey Square Park for the dedication of a new flagpole honoring Staff Sergeant Fred Brown, a Hamilton native and recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross The ceremony served as a heartfelt tribute to his courage, sacrifice, and lasting legacy of service.
Together, these events reflect Riverview’s deep sense of pride, honoring the past, strengthening community connections, and preserving the stories that continue to shape Hamilton’s neighborhoods.
Gourd times & spooky nights
Operation Pumpkin 2025 once again brought excitement downtown as growers and spectators from across the country gathered for the annual Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off. This year made history when a massive 2,518-pound pumpkin set a new Operation Pumpkin site record, coming within just 300 pounds of the world record.
What began as a local idea has grown into one of Hamilton’s most beloved traditions, thanks to dedicated volunteers whose hard work continues to bring creativity, energy, and community pride to downtown
Later in the month, nearly 1,600 residents enjoyed a spook-tacular evening at 17STRONG’S Trunks & Treats on the Trail along the Millikin Woods Trail. Families trick-or-treated with local vendors and braved the RiversEdge haunted house, making it a festive night filled with fun, costumes, and connection.
From record-breaking pumpkins to Halloween thrills, these October events showcased the creativity, teamwork, and strong sense of community that make Hamilton a great place to call home
A New Chapter: City Council welcomes new leadership
In December, Hamilton’s newly elected City Council members were sworn in, with their official terms beginning in January.
First-time candidate Lauren Smallwood was elected as the city’s next Vice Mayor, while Councilman Joel Lauer was re-elected to a second term and Councilman Tim Naab was re-elected to a fifth term.
We look forward to working with City Council as they begin this new chapter of leadership in the year ahead.
Performance Reviews: What’s
changing (and what’s staying the same)
At the December XLMT meeting, leadership discussed the upcoming shift to anniversary-date performance evaluations and how that change relates to merit increases. After thoughtful feedback and consideration, it was decided that while evaluations will move to anniversary dates, merit increases will remain on the current July cycle.
This approach best supports fairness, efficiency, and consistency across the organization Keeping merit increases tied to the July cycle prevents inequities during the transition, ensures the evaluation process remains focused on feedback and growth (even when budget constraints may limit pay raises in the future), and allows HR and Payroll to process reviews and adjustments efficiently.
This change reflects our ongoing commitment to building a culture of continuous feedback while maintaining a clear, equitable compensation structure. Thank you to all XLMT members for contributing thoughtful insights and helping guide this important improvement to our performance management system and processes
Celebrating culture, community & contributions
In October, Human Resources recognized Hispanic Heritage Month during a City Council meeting by celebrating the culture, history, and contributions of our Hispanic and Latino community.
Connecting students to their future
Hamilton High School’s Future Planning Day continues to be a great opportunity to connect students with what’s next. Held twice a year, the event brings together about 25 local employers to give juniors and seniors a firsthand look at career paths and job opportunities right here in our community.
In November, Brittany Chapman and Rebekah Cremeans attended on behalf of the City, sharing insights, answering questions, and helping students explore potential futures. The event was a success and a great example of how local partnerships can help shape the next generation of our workforce.
HR Corner: Training reminder & benefit boosts for 2026
As part of the City of Hamilton’s annual compliance requirements, all employees are required to complete the COH 2026 Annual Education Compliance Training, now available in NeoGov. This mandatory training has been assigned to all employees and must be completed by March 1, 2026. If you have questions or need assistance, please reach out to Sol Otero Carbajal at ext. 7351 or Rebekah Cremeans at ext. 7031.
In addition to training reminders, there’s great news on the benefits front The City has enhanced its 2026 benefits package and increased the Living Well incentive contributions to employee Health Savings Accounts (HSA) (or HRA, when applicable) for those enrolled in the High Deductible Health Plan through Pinnacle. HSAs allow employees to set aside pre-tax dollars to help cover deductibles and qualified healthcare expenses, and the City’s contribution helps those savings grow even faster.
For 2026, City contributions have increased significantly:
Employee only: $1,451
Employee + one: $2,902
Family: $4,353
(Up from last year’s contributions of $1,000 / $2,000 / $2,000 )
Full details on benefits and the Living Well Program can be found on the links below.
2026 Employee Benefit Guide 2026 Living Well Program Packet
Thank you for staying engaged, informed, and committed to both compliance and wellness.
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Honoring legacy & remembering service
In November, Assistant Chief Shawn Fryman and former Hamilton Police Officer Earl Grubb were inducted into the City of Hamilton Veterans Hall of Fame. Both were recognized for their exceptional dedication through their service to our country and their service to the City of Hamilton
Assistant Chief Fryman, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran with more than nine years of active and reserve service, delivered the keynote address. He spoke about the importance of family and giving back to the community His remarks captured the spirit of what it means to serve.
Officer Grubb served in the U.S. Army during World War I and later joined the Hamilton Police Department in 1931. He was tragically killed in the line of duty on January 1, 1935. His courage and commitment continue to reflect the best of who we are at HPD.
Congratulations to Assistant Chief Fryman for this well-deserved distinction It’s our honor to remember Officer Grubb for his service to our country and his ultimate sacrifice for our community.
Jody Gunderson was more than a respected leader and accomplished professional; He was a trusted colleague, a mentor, a friend, and a presence that made the City of Hamilton feel lighter simply by being in the room.
Jody served as our Economic Development Director for thirteen years, playing a leading role in the city’s revitalization and helping shape the momentum and confidence Hamilton continues to carry forward. His career in economic development spanned decades and communities across the Midwest, and he brought that deep expertise, vision, and credibility to every project he touched But what truly set Jody apart wasn’t just what he built, it was how he built it: with integrity, collaboration, and a genuine love for the communities he served
To those who worked alongside him, Jody will be remembered for his quick wit, infectious laugh, and unmistakable good nature He had a way of putting people at ease, whether through a perfectly timed joke, a burst of song lyrics mid-conversation, or an impromptu story told with a grin He was fiercely supportive of local businesses, generous with his time, and deeply invested in the people around him.
Above all else, Jody was proud of his family. He was a devoted father to his three sons, William, Benjamin, and Alexander, and spoke often and lovingly about them. Everything he did, both personally and professionally, reflected his belief that love and loyalty to family mattered most.
Jody’s passing leaves a profound absence within our organization and our community. His impact on Hamilton will be felt for years to come, not only through the projects he helped bring to life, but through the relationships he built and the example he set.
In recognition of Jody’s lasting legacy, the Greater Hamilton Chamber of Commerce will include a tribute to the late Jody Gunderson at its Annual Dinner on January 30th We will do our best to share that video with staff once it becomes available
Jody is deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever a part of Hamilton’s story
