Bowling Green · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Bowling Green public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Economic development pipeline
Economic Development Director Kati Thompson reported active prospects that could bring hundreds of jobs — including Project Sprint, a tier-one auto supplier considering 400+ jobs — plus the upcoming Abbott project still waiting on a start date and Cooper Standard's planned 2027 exit.
Chipotle restaurant height variance on south side
The ZBA granted Chipotle a variance to build 22 feet 8 inches tall after the developer showed a 23-foot deed restriction near Home Depot. Something is getting built on the south side of town.
City website redesign and accessibility improvements
The city is launching a redesigned website May 21 with better search, mobile support and ADA tools, plus AI-generated accessible versions of its 2,500 PDFs and new social media listening tools.
ClaZel Theater restoration
The renovated ClaZel Theater is buzzing with weekend shows. The commission pitched monthly historic movies and a vaudeville or ragtime concert; the manager was interested, and rent ($2,000/night) is negotiable.
Tourism impact and Winterfest
Visit BG Ohio spent about $16,000 in grants, $59,000 in sponsorships and $97,000 in marketing in 2025 to draw visitors. Winterfest returned after six years and was a success.