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1. Do contractors need to register in the City of Groveport?

No, they do not.

2. When submitting a permit application, how many copies do I need to submit?

Three copies of each document (other than the application itself) will be required.

3. How can I verify that a property is officially located in the City of Groveport?

If you have the parcel number, and it begins with 185, this is the City of Groveport. If you would not have the parcel number, the Franklin County Auditor's Office is a great resource. Our office is always available for a call at 614-830-2045.

4. How long does the plan review process typically take to complete?

Commercial Plans will take from two to three business weeks; residential plans will take from seven to ten days.

5. What is the latest time I can call in for an inspection?

We accept inspection calls up to 9 a.m. that day for all inspections, except electrical inspections. Electrical Inspections need to be called in by 4 p.m. for the next day.

6. What types of payment does the City accept for permits?

We are currently accepting Visa, Master Card, check, money order and cash.

7. To whom should the check be made payable?

Check or money order can be made out to the City of Groveport.

8. Where can I dispose of hazardous waste or used oil?

For hazardous waste information and disposal locations and hours, please visit the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio Website.

9. What is the process for reporting on neighbor nuisances such as high grass, house disrepair, etc.?

The Property Maintenance Division can be reached at 614-830-2056. For more information, visit the Property Maintenance Page.

10. Where can I find permit applications on the City's website?

For permit application forms and fee information, visit Building and Zoning's Applications and Fees Page.

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1. Who will hear my case in court?

You will have a chance to speak with the City of Groveport Prosecutor prior to the Magistrate's hearing of your case.

2. May I pay my ticket without appearing in court?

Some violations require you to appear in court. To determine if you can pay without appearing, look at your ticket. The line above the court date will indicate if your appearance is required.

3. How can I contest my ticket?

You may contest a ticket by appearing on your court date and entering a "Not Guilty" plea.

4. What if I can't afford to pay the full amount of the ticket by my court date?

You will need to appear in court and request to be set up on a payment plan. The Magistrate will determine if you are eligible for a payment plan.

5. What if I can't come to court on my court date?

Please call the Clerk of Court's office at 614-830-2043 to verify you are eligible for a continuance. If you are, you must complete a "Request for Continuance" form and submit it to the clerk's office prior to your court date.

6. May I transfer my case to the Franklin County Municipal Court.

Requests to transfer your case must be presented to the Magistrate on your initial court date.

7. I have been ordered to attend a drug/alcohol treatment program. Where are they located?

Driver Intervention Programs (DIP) are available throughout Franklin County. Please see the attached list.

8. I didn't have proof of insurance at the time I received the ticket. How can I provide that to your office?

The proof of insurance must be received by your court date in order to avoid subsequent action by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Be sure the insurance is for the vehicle you were driving and is valid on the date you received the ticket. You may come into the office between 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, fax the documentation to 614-836-1953 or mail it to City of Groveport Mayor's Court, 655 Blacklick Street, Groveport, OH 43125.

9. Do I need an attorney?

You may have any attorney represent you if you wish. You are not required to have one.

10. When is my court date?

The court date appears on the bottom of your ticket just below the red outlined box.

11. How much is my fine?

Most moving violations carry a fine of $46.00 and court costs of $49.00 for a total of $95.00.

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1. How do I file an officer complaint?

Complaints can be filed in person, in writing, at the police station during business hours.

2. How do I get a copy of a police or accident report?

You may obtain a copy of an official police or accident report by stopping in our offices at 5690 Clyde Moore Dr., Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Requests may also be mailed, please include a self addressed stamped return envelope; be sure to include enough information in your request to allow us to locate the correct report. For large requests you may be asked to pay for the actual cost of producing such documents.

All requests for information are governed by the Ohio Public Records Law and some records may not be available.

3. Do you offer fingerprinting services?

As of November 1, 1995, the policy of the Groveport Police Department has been to extend fingerprinting services only to individuals who live in the village proper. We will continue to offer this service to our residents free of charge. You are to supply the blue fingerprint card.

If you do not live in the village proper, you are welcome to use the following services:

Franklin County Sheriff's Department Photo Lab
410 S High Street
Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-462-3191 (You must make an appointment.)
Open Monday - Friday until Noon
Fee: $5

Columbus Police Department ID Unit
120 Marconi Boulevard, 3rd Floor Records
Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-645-4696 (Recorded Message)
Open Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5:45 p.m.
Fee: $5

4. What are some guidelines for kids' online safety?

1. I will not give out personal information such as my address, telephone number, parents' work address/telephone number, or the name and location of my school without my parents' permission.

2. I will tell my parents right away if I come across any information that makes me feel uncomfortable.

3. I will never agree to get together with someone I "meet" online without first checking with my parents. If my parents agree to the meeting, I will be sure that it is in a public place and bring my mother or father along.

4. I will never send a person my picture or anything else without first checking with my parents.

5. I will not respond to any messages that are mean or in any way make me feel uncomfortable. It is not my fault if I get a message like that. If I do I will tell my parents right away so that they can contact the service provider.

6. I will talk with my parents so that we can set up rules for going online. We will decide upon the time of day that I can be online, the length of time I can be online, and appropriate areas for me to visit. I will not access other areas or break these rules without their permission.

7. I will not give out my Internet password to anyone (even my best friends) other than my parents.

8. I will be a good online citizen and not do anything that hurts other people or is against the law.

5. How can I avoid home improvement scams?

Groveport Chief of Police, Ralph J. Portier, with information from the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police,and the Ohio Attorney Generals Consumer Protection Section, offers these tips to help identify a less than reputable contractor.

The Contractor:

- Solicits door to door: Some reputable companies use door to door sales; but they have sales people or hire companies to do it for them. The contractor or his workers will not solicit business themselves. A reputable company will offer a contract for you to sign which will include a cancellation form. Under Ohio law you have three business days to cancel any contract from a door to door solicitation.

- Offers you a discount for finding other customers: A "referral sale" is illegal in Ohio, and you will probably not get the promised discount.

- Just happens to have left over materials from a previous job: This rarely turns out to be a bargain and is a favorite scam of groups who prey on the elderly with driveway sealing or home power washing schemes.

- Asks you to obtain required permits, or asks for payment up front: Reputable companies will only ask for a reasonable down payment. They will also insist on a contract and will offer a receipt for your payment.

- Suggests that you borrow from a lender the contractor knows: A favorite scam of some unscrupulous contractors is "slip-sheeting," a practice in which a contractor or lender slips in paper work such as a second mortgage or even a quit claim deed into the package.

- Uses high pressure sales tactics: Pressures you for an immediate decision, or uses scare tactics such as telling you your roof is going to collapse, or your furnace is going to explode. Be very wary if this is the case and contact a known company or local inspector for a second opinion.

- Does not have a listing in the local phone book: This and the appearance of the person and their trucks or equipment are two of the best clues to watch for. Reputable companies have employees or hire companies to do their solicitations; they do not send workers roaming the neighborhoods in unmarked or unkempt trucks looking for business.

The vast amount of home improvement scams that occur in this area involve roving groups who target specific areas preying on the elderly. If you have elderly friends or family, be sure to share this information with them, and let them know if any at any time they have any concerns with a solicitor they should close the door and call the police. A little awareness and education can go a long way in protecting our elderly from these predatory thieves. If you or someone you know needs home improvement work, check with people you know for referrals or check your local phone book. Be sure to ask plenty of questions of the contractor, and if you are not satisfied, move on to the next choice.

6. What are the regulations concerning portable basketball hoops?

While portable basketball hoops do provide a convenient form of entertainment for young people, they can violate the law when placed in streets or near the public right of way. Current law prohibits the playing of basket ball on a public street. Sections of the code also prohibit placing an item such as a hoop in the right of way of a public roadway. As such, the correct place to erect a portable hoop would be on private property only.

7. What are the regulations concerning scooters, go-peds, and electric bikes?

There is no Ohio law specific to the operation of these types of devices; however there has been some directives from the Ohio BMV as well as case law from the state of Florida that clarify the standing of these vehicles under existing laws and village ordinances. Under Groveport Codified Ordinances and the Ohio Revised Code, these devices are classified as a motor vehicle because they are a vehicle that is propelled by power other than muscular power and they do not fit under any of the exceptions found in the definition of a motor vehicle.

They cannot be considered a bicycle because they are not powered solely by human power. Although they are considered a motor vehicle, it is illegal to operate such a device upon a public street since they cannot be licensed and do not meet minimum vehicle equipment requirements. It is also illegal to operate these devices upon a sidewalk because the law states that "no person shall drive any vehicle, other than a bicycle upon a sidewalk."

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1. How do I book my child's party?

Simply read and complete a Birthday Party Contract. All reservations must be made in-person at the Groveport Recreation Center. Full payment is due at time of reservation. Rooms cannot be placed “on hold."

Birthday Party Contract (PDF)

2. Do people that do not plan on “using” the facility have to pay (have a day pass)?

Yes. Anyone past our front desk must have a day pass (no exceptions).

3. Can I decorate the room? When can I get into the room to decorate?

Yes, you can decorate the room provided that you use masking tape to hang decorations. Please keep in mind that our rooms are utilized frequently. We may not be able to get you into your room until the start time noted on your contract. However, if the room is not being used before your party and/or the room is in good condition, you may be able to get into the room 15 minutes prior to the start of your party.

4. Will the room be set up with chairs and tables?

Yes, but you may rearrange to your liking. If you need an extra table or additional chairs, please see a member of our staff on the day of your party.

5. Can I bring balloons?

Yes, provided that they are not helium.

6. Can I bring snacks?

Yes. Snacks such as chips, crackers, pretzels and fruit are permitted.

7. Can I purchase additional food?

Yes, additional food can be purchased through the Recreation Department provided that we have a few days' notice. The order form for additional food items (including pizza, subs, salads, etc.) is found in the Birthday Party Contract. In the event that you have a last minute food order, you will need to contact Flyer’s Pizza and Subs at 614-830-0123 to personally place and pay for your additional food order. Flyer’s Pizza & Subs will deliver your order to the Groveport Recreation Center.

8. What will “kids” be able to do?

Play in one of our gyms (along with our regular patrons). Please check the gym schedules for times suited for the kids in your party as we have varying times for our different age groups.

Climb the rock wall. Please check the rock wall schedule as the rock wall is only open certain hours during the day. Climbers must be at least 5 years of age, weigh at least 40 pounds and have sufficient strength and coordination to climb. Prior to date of use, 5-year-olds must meet with the Recreation Coordinator for pre-approval.

Swim at our indoor pool. Please check the indoor pool schedule for GENERAL SWIM times. The indoor is not open the same hours as the rest of the facility.

Only adults are permitted to utilize the fitness center and indoor track.

If you chose the Aquatic Center (outdoor water park), kids will enjoy all of the age and height appropriate amenities of the facility.

View Hours and Schedules.

9. What should people wear?

People should wear comfortable clothing, including gym shoes. If they plan on swimming, they will need a change of clothes and a towel. The facility does not provide towels or locks for lockers.

10. Are lockers available?

Yes. We highly recommend that you lock your personal items in a locked locker. Please bring your own padlock.

11. Can babies be in the pool?

Yes. However, swim diapers must be worn by those not potty-trained.

12. Do I need to be in the pool with my child?

It depends on their age. For more information, please see our Facility Rules.

13. What else do I need to know? What are the rules associated with each facility?

Please read the contract and our rules.

Birthday Party Contract (PDF)

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1. How old do you need to be to join?

You must be a minimum of 55 years of age.

2. What type of activities are there at the Senior Center?

Card games, line dancing, quilting, reading, puzzles, board games, lunches, trips, etc.

3. Do you go on trips?

Yes, the Senior Center offers approximately 20 trips per year. These include one day trips, as well as 2 - 3 day and extended day trips.

4. What does a membership cost, and what do I get for the membership?

The membership fee is $6 per year and includes a monthly newsletter and access to the Senior Center.

5. Is there a lunch program?

Yes. There is a Thursday lunch program. The cost is $2 for the meal and 50 cents for the ice cream bar. Registration is required by 4 p.m. on the preceding Monday.

6. Are non-residents welcome?

Yes. A majority of the membership is made up of non-residents.

7. What are the hours?

Typical office hours are Monday - Friday, 8a.m. - 5 p.m. Members have access to the facility any hours that the Recreation Center is open.

8. I noticed that the door is kept locked. How do I get into the facility?

When you become a member of the senior center you are issued an ID card with an access button. Simply wave the button over the sensor and the door will open for you. Non-members must ring the door bell and have the door opened by staff or a Senior Center member.

9. How do I get a Senior Center Parking Sticker?

You must be an active member in at least one on sight activity per week on a regular basis for several weeks before a parking sticker will be issued. These parking stickers are for use when using the Senior Center wing only. Please do not park in these spaces when using the Recreation Center. Please see Deb Scholl-Saulnier (Senior Citizens Coordinator) to obtain a parking sticker.

10. Do you have any information regarding transportation services that might be available to a Groveport senior?

The Groveport Senior Transportation Program promotes the continuation of an independent lifestyle for individuals aged 60 and older or disabled through dependable door to door transportation for residents of the City of Groveport. The program assists in decreasing clients' dependence on family members
and friends and increases opportunities for independent mobility. For more information, please contact:

Lisa Zurbriggen, Transportation Coordinator
Groveport Senior Transportation
614-836-7433
lzurbriggen@groveport.org

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1. What is Healthways?

Healthways is the leading provider of specialized comprehensive Health and Care Support solutions to help millions of people maintain or improve their health and, as a result, reduce overall health care costs. Healthways’ programs are designed to help healthy individuals stay healthy, reduce risk factors for certain diseases and conditions, and promote the best possible health for those already affected by disease.

2. What is SilverSneakers?

Healthways SilverSneakers Fitness Program is the nation’s leading fitness program designed exclusively for older adults. This comprehensive program addresses the physical, mental and social needs of Medicare-eligible members (usually 65-plus). Adults over age 65 who adopt a physically active lifestyle can substantially improve their health to get more out of life. Providing a comprehensive yet easy-to-use fitness program is proving to be a viable solution for health plans, their members and participating locations. SilverSneakers members of a sponsoring health plan receive a no-cost basic membership that includes the opportunity to participate in the signature SilverSneakers group exercise classes.

3. I am currently an annual pass holder (formerly called member) of the Groveport Recreation Center. What happens to my current annual pass/membership?

Your current annual pass/membership will be put on-hold while you are enrolled in the SilverSneakers program. If the SilverSneakers program is terminated either by me, the Groveport Recreation Center or SilverSneakers, the hold on my pass/membership will be lifted and I will be obligated for the remaining months on my pass/membership and I will have full pass/membership privileges.

• If you paid with cash or credit card, you will NOT receive any type of refund.
• If you paid via Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT), our staff will not charge your account during the time in which you are enrolled in the SilverSneakers program at our facility. If the SilverSneakers program is terminated either by me, the COG or SilverSneakers, my account will be charged for the remaining months on my pass/membership and I will have full pass/membership privileges.

4. How do I know if I am eligible for SilverSneakers?

• Pick up an Enrollment Packet at the Groveport Recreation Center (Front Desk).
• Complete the forms in the packet. It is required that you include your 16-digit identification number found on your Healthways I.D. Card, which you should have received from your health insurance company.
• Turn in your completed forms to our staff for confirmation of eligibility.

NOTE: If you do not have a Healthways 16-digit identification number or Healthways I.D. Card, our staff will have to check with Healthways regarding your eligibility. Our staff will then get back to you and let you know of your status.

5. If I am eligible does it mean that my spouse is also eligible?

No. Our staff will have to verify each of you individually.

6. Once it is verified that I am eligible for the SilverSneakers program, what do I need to do so I can utilize the facility?

1. After turning in your completed forms and after our staff has confirmed your eligibility, our staff will enter your information into our recreation management system.

2. Our staff will then schedule an orientation session for you. At the orientation, our staff will give you a tour of the facility and also provide you with information on how to use our fitness equipment.

3. After completing the orientation, our staff will take your photo and make you a Groveport Recreation Center I.D. Card. This card will enable you to use the facility.

NOTE: This entire process may take a week or so, depending on the forms submitted, eligibility confirmation, processing and orientation.

7. How long is my SilverSneakers program good for at the Groveport Recreation Center?

You will be eligible for the program as long as you remain eligible through your health insurance program.

8. When I come to the facility what do I need to provide for entry?

Our staff will issue you a Pass Card containing your name, photo and a bar code. Simply pass the card (facing up) under the scanner at the front desk located in the middle of the lobby. Once we have verified your scan, our staff will “buzz you in”.

9. If I use the locker rooms, am I required to bring a padlock to the facility?

We encourage all patrons to secure their belongings in a locked locker. Patrons are responsible for bring their own padlock to the facility. Items may not be kept in lockers overnight.

10. Are there any facility rules that I need to be aware of?

Yes. Staff has developed a number of facility rules for each area of the facility. A copy of the rules will be attached to your SilverSneakers Program Registration Form.

11. What will I have access to at the Groveport Recreation Center?

You will have access to everything that a normal pass holder/member has access to on a daily basis, which includes:

• Fitness Center
• 1/10 Mile 3-Lane Elevated Track
• 2-Hardwood Floor Full Court Gyms
• Heated 145,000 Gallon Indoor Pool
• 30 ft. Rock Climbing Wall
• Locker Rooms
• General Areas

12. Does the SilverSneakers program allow me to utilize the Groveport Aquatic Center (Outdoor Water Park) and Groveport Senior Center?

No. The SilverSneakers program only reimburses the City of Groveport for your use of the Groveport Recreation Center. You are welcome to use the Groveport Aquatic Center and Groveport Senior Center as long as you pay the normal going rate at those facilities. Rate information is available in the Recreation Section.

13. Can I bring a guest with me to the Groveport Recreation Center?

Yes. However, they must pay for a day pass.

14. I heard that Fitness Classes are FREE. Is that the case?

Classes noted as SilverSneakers are free for you and your fellow SilverSneaker friends. However, you will be charged the normal rate for any other programs and classes.

15. If I have other questions about the Groveport Recreation Center, who should I contact?

View a List of Recreation Center Contacts.

16. If I need to speak to someone directly representing the Healthways Silver Sneakers program, who do I contact?

Please call the Healthways Customer Service toll free at 1-888-423-4632 (Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., EST).

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1. Am I elegible to ride Groveport Senior Transportation?

If you are a resident of the City of Groveport and are 60 years of age or older (or 18 or over with a disability), you are eligible to ride with Groveport Senior Transporation.

2. How do I sign-up for Senior Transportation?

Contact the Senior Transportation office at (614)836-7433.

3. How much does it cost?

The City of Groveport is pleased to provide this service free of charge to qualifying residents.

4. How long does it take until I can get a ride?

We will schedule a home visit to complete your sign up and orientation. We are typically able to schedule your visit within 5-7 days.

5. Where can I go on Senior Transportation?

We provide transporation to the doctor, pharmacy, physical therapy, testing and labs. We also provide transportation to personal destinations such as the grocery store, barber/hairdresser, library, Rec Center and Senior Center. (see guidelines for more information) Senior Transporation Guidelines

6. What is GREAT?

Groveport Rickenbacker Employee Access Transit. GREAT gives you a ride between COTA and your job in the Rickenbacker area. GREAT Transportation Information

7. What does it cost to ride GREAT?

The City of Groveport and the Village of Obetz are pleased to offer GREAT free of charge.

8. Where do COTA and GREAT connect?

London-Groveport Rd. at Alum Creek Drive.

9. Does GREAT stop at my job?

Our stops are listed on our Route Map. Stops are frequently updated.