Xenia authorizes mayor to enter sister‑city arrangement; council discusses Ashanti (Ghana) exchange

Xenia City Council voted Nov. 13 to authorize the mayor to sign a nonbinding sister‑city agreement (agenda item listed as Resolution 2025‑58). During discussion councilmembers said the initiative came from staff and partners at Central State and Wilberforce and would emphasize cultural and educational exchange.

Mayor Urschel and other councilmembers described planned travel to meet Ashanti regional leaders and participate in a jubilee event marking the Ashanti king’s anniversary; the mayor said three council members planned a delegation and that travel costs would be covered by the travelers except for required vaccinations, which the city paid in the interest of public health (city staff cited vaccination costs around $1,500). Mayor Urschel emphasized no tax dollars would be used for travel and that the goal is cultural and educational exchange.

The agenda item text initially referenced 'Aruba' as the sister‑city partner; council discussion, however, focused on establishing ties with Ashanti leaders and travel to Ghana. Staff clarified the arrangement is a nonbinding sister‑city agreement that would formalize cultural exchange; council approved the resolution by roll call.

Next steps: staff will finalize details and arrange the planned delegation; the record shows the city will cover required vaccinations for travelers but not airfare or other travel expenses.