Obetz, Ohio

Obetz is a village in Franklin County, Ohio, United States. The population was 4,532 at the 2010 census. The community (originally "Obetz Junction", in honor of settler Charles Obetz) was formed in 1838 as a stagecoach junction, and incorporated in 1928. Nearby "Reese Station" served as the railroad station for the immediate area, while other adjacent communities such as Groveport, Lockbourne and Canal Winchester were part of the Ohio and Erie Canal canal and lock system. The close proximity of Obetz Junction to these terminal towns transformed the area into a hub of commerce, travel and trade in mid-19th century. Communities such as Obetz and its neighbors, with their strong ties to transportation helped to further cement Central and Columbus, Ohio's status as the state capital.GovernmentThe Village of Obetz’ charter was approved by voters on November 3, 2009 and went into effect on January 1, 2010. This established a Mayor-Council Plan form of government. The current Mayor, D. Greg Scott, was elected in 2015 to serve a four-year term beginning January 1, 2016. There are six council members, each elected to a four-year term of office. James Wiley and Mike Flaherty were elected in 2015 to serve a four-year term beginning January 1, 2016. The remaining members, Louise Crabtree, Angie Kirk, Guiles Richardson, and Bonnie Wiley were elected in 2013, and their terms will end December 31, 2017. The Obetz Council meets on the second and fourth Monday of every month at 6:00 pm. The meetings are held at the Obetz Government Center located at 4175 Alum Creek Drive, and they are open to the public. Mayor Scott is chiefly responsible for ensuring that the laws and ordinances of the Village are enforced and serves as the head of the Executive branch of the Obetz Government. Mayor Scott also serves as the Chief Law enforcement officer of the Village. Additionally, the Mayor is the president of Council and presides over all regular and special meetings. The Mayor is also ultimately responsible for the general supervision of the employees and departments within the Village. The position of Mayor is a part-time position and the day-to-day Village operations are the responsibility of the Village Administrator E. Rod Davisson, Esq.