PIQUA – The City of Piqua presented an update on programs and projects at the Piqua Area Chamber of Commerce’s biannual State of the City address earlier this month.
The event, held on June 6 at the Fort Piqua Plaza Banquet Center, included more than 75 attendees. Piqua Mayor Kris Lee presented the welcome address, and Pastor David Fishback of Piqua Christian Church shared an invocation. City Manager Paul Oberdorfer presented the City’s updates over the past two years and goals for the community in the future.
Through the staff strategic planning process, the City identified four focus areas for projects and programs in service to the Piqua community: unified community, thriving economy, responsive service and reliable infrastructure.
“The vision that is created through our strategic planning process comes to reality through the collaboration of residents and our City Commissioners,” Oberdorfer said. “The administration then is the delivery mechanism to bring that vision to reality through careful planning and execution by our talented and hard-working staff who execute these plans every day.”
Oberdorfer noted that communication between elected officials, staff and residents has been a key focus. The City has made investments in staff to lead geographic information systems and public information efforts. The City has seen increased involvement with the City’s 19 boards and commissions as well as enhanced communication channels for residents with City Commissioners.
The Lock 9 project, which is nearing completion, will continue to be a cornerstone for development in downtown Piqua and capitalize on the Great Miami River running through the community. Redevelopment at I-75 and U.S. 36 will lead to new restaurants and hotel investment. Sites are prepared to attract businesses and build the economic base of the community.
The City has stepped up code enforcement efforts and is working toward the implementation of the rental inspection program. New housing developments will build the critical assets needed to promote the growth of Piqua. Street maintenance, utility projects and power system investments ensure the critical infrastructure is in place to support local residents and businesses.
Effective management of the City’s parks system, Echo Hills Golf Course and Fort Piqua Plaza allow the City to offer these amenities to residents and visitors. The Piqua Public Safety Regional Training Center completed in 2023 offers the fire and police departments opportunities to train for real-life scenarios faced in the line of duty.
Internal systems such as employee attraction and retention efforts, sound financial practices and reporting, and a solid informational technology ecosystem allow the City to operate efficiently and efficiently in service to Piqua.
“I’m encouraged to see the progress we are making as a community through Paul’s leadership and the successes brought to fruition by the dedicated City staff,” Mayor Lee said. “The Commission is engaging with our residents and continuing to celebrate the many positive strides the City is making toward our future.”
Oberdorfer echoed Mayor Lee’s comment, noting that the City’s efforts are a truly collaborative venture.
“The City of Piqua is here to work for you, to create the type of community we all want to enjoy,” Oberdorfer said. “We invite each of you to be a part of that team and the efforts to bring the vision to life.”
The recording of the State of the City address can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel. The slide presentation can be found on the City’s website here.
