Bowling Green · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Bowling Green public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Callery pear removal and replacement on Wren
Twenty-six invasive Callery pear trees along Wren Road will be removed and replaced this fall. Residents along the street will get advance notice by door hangers and a press release.
Historic/notable tree map and database
The Commission is building a map and database of historic and notable trees, aiming for a Spring 2027 kickoff. Residents may be asked to nominate trees via an online portal.
Street tree care outreach to residents
A resident-led climate action group is partnering with the city to launch a 'Leave the Leaves' project on October 21 at Simpson Garden Park, encouraging residents to leave leaf litter for wildlife and soil health.
$1 Million State Grant for Water and Sewer Lines
All six city projects nominated for Ohio EPA wastewater loans made the agency's 2026 funding list. Four are in design or engineering; construction activity is expected at the Portage Mercer Pump Station. Nominations reserve a spot for loan money without obligating the city to borrow.
Poe/Mercer pump station odor control
Four screens at the pump station are worn out and need replacing at an estimated $4 million, funded through a state low-interest loan. Recent improvements have already eased the odor problems neighbors noticed.
Proposed federal Section 106 revisions
Proposed federal rule changes would strip local commissions of their right to review federal projects affecting historic places, and make public comment optional. The commission will decide next month whether to write legislators or ask council for a proclamation.
Wind turbine decommissioning
Four turbines at the landfill will be removed by year-end under a ~$1.7–1.8 million AMP contract already funded — no rate increase expected.
Ohio EPA notice of violation at Water Treatment Plant
The city was cited by the EPA for orthophosphate dropping below required levels earlier this year — caused by a failing field test device. Officials say there was no health risk, the device was replaced with more accurate lab testing, and customers are being notified in their bills.
Water Rate Increase
Council members pressed staff on how the income tax reallocation affects future water and sewer rates, asking for updated figures and exploring whether increases could be tied to usage rather than fixed charges.
Air-quality impacts from fairgrounds burnout event
A resident's monitor showed PM readings of 2,184 during the NWO Showdown — over four times the EPA hazardous level — with tire smoke reaching his basement. Council asked staff to research what options exist since the fairgrounds is outside city limits.
Water Meter Upgrades
Bowling Green is giving away free water meter upgrades, but you'll have to take a few minutes to schedule an appointment for the swap. It's an easy way to get updated tech in your home without paying a dime out of pocket.
Water Main Break
A massive water main break just hit Bowling Green, knocking out service and forcing local schools and businesses to scramble. Check your taps before you head out today!