The Amherst City Council met on November 24, 2025, and handled several important items that will affect city workers, the police and fire departments, and local rules. The meeting also brought good news for the city’s finances.
Amherst Receives State Auditor’s Award
Representatives from the Ohio Auditor of State visited City Hall recently and presented Amherst with the Auditor of State Award. This award is given to cities that keep strong financial records and follow state rules.
Auditor Phillips told council that her office is already preparing for the 2025 audit, and Mayor Costilow thanked city staff for their hard work.
Council Moves Forward on Labor Contracts and Pay Ordinances
Council took action on many employee-related items. All of them were moved forward for more discussion at the next meeting.
These items include:
- A new contract with AFSCME for 2026–2028
- New contracts for full-time police officers, sergeants, dispatchers, and part-time officers
- A pay and benefits update for the Fire Department
- Salary ordinances for the Auditor, Treasurer, Police and Fire leadership, Utility supervisors, and several other city positions
- The 2026 Interim Budget, which will help fund city operations at the start of next year
All of these passed their first or second readings unanimously.
Police Department Job Rules Amended
Two ordinances dealing with Police Department leadership were changed at the request of Mayor Costilow.
A section labeled 11.1 was removed from both the ordinance for the Police Chief and Lieutenant and the ordinance for the Civilian Police Administrator.
Council approved the changes and moved both items on to a third reading.
New Mobile Vending Rules Approved
Council completed its final reading of a new ordinance updating rules for mobile vendors, such as food trucks.
The ordinance passed 6–0 and is now officially O-25-29.
Full Meeting Details and Documents
This article is based on the city’s official meeting minutes and agenda.