COMMERCIAL POINT, OH — August 5, 2025
What began as a routine council meeting in Commercial Point quickly descended into chaos Monday night, with heated public complaints, annexation confusion, and a surprise resignation from a council member — all in one evening.
The turning point came during the public comment section, when the owner of Beck’s Garage addressed the council with frustration over recent treatment from local law enforcement. The business, known for hosting summer “Bike Nights” featuring live music and community events, claimed they were being unfairly targeted by police for music violations during every event.
“We feel like we’ve been singled out,” said the bar owner, referring to the consistent pushback from police despite efforts to bring entertainment and economic activity to the village. The owner pointed at a recent car show and other events that have music and alcohol, and are not policed the same.
Shortly afterward, Mayor Nancy Geiger issued a reminder that DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) had not been formally implemented, meaning outdoor alcohol consumption remains prohibited.
Annexation Debate Heats Up
Later in the meeting, council took up the third reading of Ordinance 2025-04, which proposes the annexation of 10.163 acres of Scioto Township farmland into the village. The land sits directly in front of the Southern Point development, a large residential community currently outside village limits, that also has the potential to become part of Commercial Point in the future.
The ordinance sparked a sharp debate among council members. Although the land is not currently zoned for development, some council members expressed concern that annexing the property would pave the way for future housing expansion. The discussion grew contentious, with some members openly opposing the annexation based on speculation about potential development.
The developers Lawyer reminded the council that their vote was only on whether to annex the land as it currently exists — not on any proposed zoning changes or housing plans, which would require a separate process and formal presentation by the landowner.
Despite the clarification, three council members voted against the annexation. The tie left the deciding vote to Mayor Geiger, who acknowledged the controversy before casting her vote.
“You may hate me for this,” she said before voting yes, officially approving the annexation.
Council Member Resigns
In the aftermath of the vote, Council Member Audrea Ratliff announced her resignation, cutting her term short just five months before its scheduled end. Her departure adds to recent turnover on the council — a mayor and another council member also stepped down earlier this year.
The remaining members are now tasked with appointing a replacement to fill Ratliff’s seat as the village navigates increasing political tensions and ongoing questions about growth and development.
