Vice Mayor Lauren Copas Smallwood of Hamilton City Council

07/14/2026

School’s out, and summer is in full swing ☀️

Just a quick reminder to review curfew guidelines with your kids so everyone stays safe and on the same page.

Questions? Reach out to the City of Hamilton Police Department.

Exceptions to the Curfew Ordinances:
✅ With a parent

✅ With an adult approved in writing by a parent

✅ Exercising First Amendment rights (with signed parent notice detailing when/where/how)

✅ In cases of necessity (parent must notify police with details)

✅ On their own sidewalk or a neighbor’s (if no objection)

✅ Going home directly within 1 hour after school, church, or group activity (must verify if asked)

✅ With a city-issued permit for group activities

✅ Working a legal job for minors

✅ In a vehicle with written same-day parental consent and a licensed driver

✅ Driving legally (licensed minor traveling directly to/from locations)

06/25/2026

🎨🧩 Preschool Enrollment for the 2026–2027 school year! 🧩🎨

The Butler County Educational Service Center is now enrolling students for the new Fairwood Early Learning Center, and families interested in Hamilton Preschool programs can begin the application process today! 💙💛

Early childhood education helps children build important skills in communication, learning, social interaction, problem solving, and confidence. Preschool creates a strong foundation for lifelong success and prepares our youngest learners for kindergarten and beyond.

📝 Families can begin the enrollment process here:
Apply for Preschool Enrollment: https://www.childplus.net/apply/en-us/05CB460E89A5D2A264DC281852493A96/1790DDAA0DB2525DAAD54366347604F7

📌 When completing the application, don’t forget to select Hamilton Preschool when choosing a location. Preschool is free to Hamilton residents.

Thank you to the educators, staff, and community partners who continue working to provide high-quality early learning opportunities for Hamilton’s children and families. 💙

06/24/2026

🎒📚 Hamilton City School District Kindergarten Registration for the 2026–2027 school year! 📚🎒

Do you have a future Big Blue student ready to begin their educational journey? Kindergarten is an exciting milestone filled with learning, friendships, creativity, and growth, and Hamilton City Schools is ready to welcome the Class of 2039! 💙

✅ Step 1: Complete the online registration forms
https://hamiltonbigblue-oh.finalforms.com/

✅ Step 2: Finalize registration in person at the Miami School
📍 140 Ross Ave., Hamilton, OH 45013
🕢 Monday–Friday | 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
No appointment necessary.

📌 Families should bring:
• Child’s birth certificate
• Parent/guardian photo ID
• Current proof of residency
• Immunization records
• Custody paperwork, if applicable

⚠️ Children must be 5 years old on or before August 13th to register for kindergarten.

If your child is currently enrolled in a Hamilton City Schools preschool program, you do not need to complete kindergarten registration.

Thank you to our educators, staff, and families for helping create a strong foundation for Hamilton’s youngest learners. 💙

For additional information, contact Hamilton City Schools at 513-887-5033 or visit hamiltoncityschools.com.

06/23/2026

Thank you to everyone who took the time to attend and participate in the recent discussion on e-bikes and e-scooters.

As these devices become more common in our community, it's important that we continue learning from one another, understanding the opportunities they provide, and having honest conversations about safety, accessibility, and how they fit into our neighborhoods and roadways.

I appreciate the residents, public safety personnel, staff members, and community partners who shared their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives. Thoughtful dialogue and education help us make informed decisions that balance innovation, mobility, and public safety.

Hamilton is at its best when we come together to learn, listen, and work toward solutions that serve everyone. Thank you for helping move the conversation forward.

06/23/2026

Congratulations to the City of Hamilton, Ohio - City Hall Gas & Water Distribution Department on earning the American Public Gas Association Safety Award for the eighth consecutive year!

This national recognition reflects a culture of excellence, accountability, and a commitment to putting safety first every single day. Behind this achievement are dedicated employees whose training, attention to detail, and professionalism help protect our residents, businesses, and fellow team members.

As Vice Mayor, I am grateful for the work our utility professionals do to provide safe, reliable service to thousands of Hamiltonians. Thank you to the entire Gas & Water Distribution team for your continued dedication to our community and for representing Hamilton so well on the national stage. Congratulations on this well-deserved accomplishment!

06/07/2026

Looking for an opportunity to serve our community and make a positive first impression for residents and visitors alike?

The City of Hamilton, Ohio - City Hall is currently hiring a Customer First Desk Receptionist. This role is often the first point of contact for people visiting City Hall, helping connect residents with the services and information they need.

If you enjoy working with people, providing excellent customer service, and being part of a team dedicated to serving Hamilton, I encourage you to learn more about this opportunity.

Applications are being accepted now. To view the position details and apply, visit:

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/hamiltonoh/jobs/5362803/customer-first-desk-receptionist

Join us in helping make Hamilton an even more welcoming and responsive community for everyone!

06/05/2026

This weekend, Hamilton will once again come together to celebrate community, kindness, and the value of embracing one another at the Hamilton PRIDE Festival.

No matter our backgrounds, beliefs, or life experiences, we all benefit from living in a city where people feel welcomed, respected, and valued. Events like Hamilton Ohio Pride Festival provide an opportunity to connect with neighbors, support local organizations and businesses, enjoy great entertainment, and celebrate the many people who make our community special. The festival includes a Pride March, family-friendly activities, local vendors, food, music, and more.

As Vice Mayor, I believe one of Hamilton's greatest strengths is our ability to come together as a community. We may not always agree on everything, but we can choose to treat one another with dignity, extend grace, and recognize the humanity in each other.

I hope everyone who attends has a safe, enjoyable, and meaningful day celebrating the spirit of community that makes Hamilton such a special place to call home.

Happy Hamilton PRIDE! 🌈

06/05/2026

Looking for a meaningful way to give back to Hamilton this summer?

17STRONG-Hamilton is seeking volunteers for a variety of neighborhood projects and community events that help make our city stronger, cleaner, and more connected. Whether you have an hour to spare or are looking for an ongoing way to get involved, there are opportunities for all ages and interests.

Volunteering is one of the best ways to meet neighbors, support local initiatives, and take pride in the place we call home. From community events to neighborhood beautification efforts, every helping hand makes a difference.

Hamilton's greatest strength has always been its people! If you've been looking for a way to get involved, this is a great opportunity to be part of something positive happening in our community.

To view current volunteer opportunities and sign up, visit the volunteer registration page below:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080A4CAAAA29A0FD0-64233824-2026/35175451 #/

Thank you to 17STRONG and all of the volunteers who continue to demonstrate that when neighbors work together, great things happen.

Thank you for your willingness to support the 2026 17STRONG Microgrant season. Our Microgrant Program helps bring resident-led ideas to life across Hamilton’s neighborhoods through events, projects, beautification efforts, gatherings, and community connection. These projects only happen because re...

06/02/2026

🌳✂️ Learn the Art of Tree Pruning! ✂️🌳

Do you have young trees at home that could use a little care? Join the Small Tree Pruning Seminar hosted by the Conservatory at Miami Hamilton and the Hamilton Advisory Tree Board!

🌱 Learn from a Certified Master Arborist
🌱 Discover proper pruning techniques for trees 1–6 inches in diameter
🌱 Enjoy both classroom instruction and hands-on outdoor experience
🌱 Earn 2 ISA CEU credits (for qualifying professionals)

📅 Tuesday, June 9, 2026
⏰ 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
📍 1601 University Blvd., Hamilton, OH 45011

This is a great opportunity for homeowners, tree enthusiasts, landscapers, and anyone interested in helping Hamilton's urban forest thrive. Healthy trees make our neighborhoods safer, more beautiful, and more resilient for generations to come.

📧 RSVP: [email protected]

📞 (513) 785-7556

🌳 Thank you to the Conservatory at Miami University Regionals and the Hamilton Advisory Tree Board City of Hamilton Tree Advisory Board for providing this educational opportunity and for their continued commitment to growing a greener Hamilton!

🌱🌳

06/01/2026

🏡 Dreaming of Homeownership in Hamilton? 🏡

Whether you're thinking about buying your first home or ready to take the next step, this FREE financial empowerment course is designed to help you navigate the homebuying process with confidence!

📅 Tuesday, June 16
🕕 6:00 PM
📍 Hamilton City Council Chambers
345 High Street, Hamilton

Hosted by the City of Hamilton and First Financial Bank, the "Your Money, Learn to Own It" Empowerment Course will cover:

✅ Understanding credit scores
✅ Budgeting and financial planning
✅ Mortgage basics
✅ How much home you can afford
✅ One-on-one coaching and guidance from local experts

Homeownership can be a powerful tool for building financial stability, strengthening neighborhoods, and investing in our community's future. If you've ever wondered where to start, this is a great opportunity to learn in a welcoming, no-pressure environment. For more information, check out the event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/1655783998936660

I am grateful to our partners at First Financial Bank for helping provide resources that empower Hamilton residents and support pathways to homeownership!

🏠💙