Tallmadge economic-development staff introduced extended consulting agreement with Insight; council asks for more review time

Tallmadge — Councilmembers on Thursday reviewed a first-reading ordinance to authorize continued consulting services with Insight Advisory Group LLC to support Tallmadge’s economic development work and the city’s newly hired economic developer.

Mayor Kilway and Director of Economic Development Samantha Poole described the scope in broad terms: Insight would support creation of an initial economic development plan for 2026, market gap assessments, business surveys, site-specific support for properties identified by the city (including 45 East Avenue, 342 West Avenue, 35 West Avenue and 50 Southeast Avenue) and continued assistance to the city’s in‑house developer.

Poole said the engagement would leverage Insight’s market research and regional networks to accelerate outreach and attraction efforts. Mayor Kilway described Insight as a “force multiplier” that provides access to databases and research the city does not maintain in-house.

Several councilmembers asked about prior spending and whether the work could be performed entirely in-house with staff training. Administration replied that Poole will pursue state professional development (including the Ohio Economic Development Association program) and that Insight would assist with near-term project delivery while staff capacity is built.

Council discussed contract length and fees during the first-reading presentation and asked for more time to review the contract document. One councilmember explicitly requested the matter be moved to second reading to allow additional review; council did not adopt the ordinance at the June 26 meeting.

The ordinance (2025-60) remains at first reading; administration indicated the proposed work would begin in August if the council later authorizes the contract.