St. Marys Reflects on 2025 Progress, Looks Ahead to Continued Growth in 2026 To hear Mayor Hurlburt on Spectrum:

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St. Marys Mayor Joe Hurlburt joined Kevin Sandler on Spectrum Thursday to reflect on key developments in 2025 and preview what lies ahead for the city in the coming year.

One of the most significant moments of 2025 came in May, when voters approved a ten year renewal of the city’s half percent income tax. Mayor Hurlburt said the levy, which will next appear on the ballot in 2035, generates approximately $1.7 to $1.9 million annually and provides critical funding for police and fire services, the general services department, engineering, and parks.

City growth was also highlighted with the opening of Ollie’s Bargain Outlet in the St. Marys Square Plaza, filling a long vacant retail space. The mayor noted the plaza continues to thrive, with a mix of national and local businesses, and additional development planned for the area. A new restaurant and convenience store are expected, along with future pedestrian safety improvements, including planned crosswalks on Indiana Avenue.

Housing development remained a major focus throughout the year. The mayor said the city sold 20 residential lots in 2025, including 13 in the Sleepy Hollow subdivision, all of which are sold, and seven additional lots on the east side of town near Weston Street. Homes are already completed or under construction, helping address local housing demand while creating infrastructure related jobs.

The city also celebrated efforts to honor local military service members. Memorial highway designations were completed for Sergeant Ronnie Blair, Sergeant Herbert Linville, and Staff Sergeant Charles Kettler, following approval at the state level and coordination with ODOT. A Memorial Day ceremony was held earlier this year to recognize the dedications.

Looking ahead, Mayor Hurlburt discussed plans for the historic Grist Mill building along the canal. Thanks to a state grant, the city will begin interior renovations aimed at preserving the building’s historic character while transforming it into a rentable community event space. The project is expected to be completed by June 2026 and will be available for gatherings such as graduation parties, showers, civic meetings, and community events.

Additional updates included progress on the St. Marys Veterans Foundation and Museum, now located on the second floor of the new municipal building. The space will house memorabilia donated by local families and honor area veterans, with fundraising underway for display cases and exhibits.

The mayor also praised partnerships with the St. Marys Chamber of Commerce and the St. Marys Area Resource Team, known as SMART, which continue to support downtown events such as First Fridays and Summerfest.

Workforce stability improved in 2025, according to Hurlburt, with staffing levels now solid across city departments. He commended city employees for their dedication, especially during recent severe weather events that caused power outages.

City council will see changes in 2026, with two new members being sworn in at the start of the year. Aaron Gilliland will replace Dan Uhlenhank as council at large, while Erin Buchanan will represent the Fourth Ward. Hurlburt thanked outgoing members for their years of service.

Other developments discussed included the sale of the Fort Barbee Hotel to a private investor, who plans to renovate the building into upscale downtown apartments, and the city’s adoption of a helmet requirement for riders age 17 and under using bicycles, e bikes, and electric scooters.

Mayor Hurlburt closed by encouraging residents to remain prepared for emergencies and thanked city workers for their commitment to keeping St. Marys running safely throughout the year.