Mayor Pete Williams

09/24/2026

This Week with Mayor Pete...

One of the things I appreciate most about serving as Mayor is the opportunity to stay connected with the people and organizations working every day to move Riverside and our entire region forward.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve had some wonderful opportunities to connect with key regional partners and decision-makers, including Governor Mike DeWine, Montgomery County Commissioner Mary McDonald, and my good friend, Xenia Mayor Ethan Reynolds. These relationships matter. Staying connected and making sure Riverside has a seat at the table is important as decisions are being made and exciting opportunities are developing throughout our region.

I was also incredibly proud to welcome Wright-Patterson Air Force Base’s new 88th Air Base Wing Commander, Colonel Jason Okumura, to Riverside for coffee one afternoon at Pettibone Coffee. It was a great opportunity to get to know Col. Okumura, welcome him to our community, and talk about the important relationship between Riverside and Wright-Patt.

Later that week, Becca and I had the privilege of joining Col. Okumura and his wife at the 79th Air Force Ball at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. We enjoyed spending the evening with Chief Master Sergeant Jason Vollmer and his wife, Brigadier General Tim Spaulding and his wife, Dori, and many other regional leaders.

Many thanks to Sinclair College for its support of the evening, and it was great to spend time with Sinclair President Steve Johnson and his wife, Cindy.

Wright-Patt is such an important part of our community and our region, and building strong relationships with its leadership remains a priority for Riverside.

Closer to home, we had another reason to celebrate with the grand opening of the new Ollie's Bargain Outlet at the Airway Shopping Center!

My favorite part of the opening wasn’t just the large crowd—it was hearing directly from Ollie’s Store Manager and Regional Director about the positive interactions they had with Riverside staff throughout the permitting process. They also shared what a great experience they had holding a hiring event at the Burkhardt Branch of the Dayton Metro Library and utilizing its free community meeting space.

That is exactly what we want economic development to look like: a new business choosing Riverside and finding a community ready to help them succeed. Congrats, Peggy Henthorn!

A special shout-out to State Representative Andrea White for joining us at the opening and recognizing the Ollie’s team with a commendation. It was awesome to see the coordination between our City staff, library, regional partners, and state leadership come together to welcome a new employer and retailer to Riverside.

Speaking of economic development, I also enjoyed the monthly I-70/75 Development Corporation meeting and hearing updates on regional wins. I was especially proud to hear from Riverside’s own Cody Smith, who highlighted our recent new housing developments and updated zoning code as part of the discussion.

It is great to see the progress happening in Riverside being recognized as part of the larger economic development story taking place throughout our region.

Finally, I had the opportunity to attend the Ohio Defense & Aerospace Forum at Wright State University, where leaders from across Ohio came together to discuss the future of one of our region’s most important industries.

One of the biggest announcements was the coordinated statewide effort to bring the proposed United States Space Force Academy to the Dayton region and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Congressman Mike Turner, Senator Bernie Moreno, and Wright State President Sue Edwards were among the leaders discussing this incredible opportunity and the effort underway to make the case for Wright-Patt.

It was incredibly encouraging to hear just how aligned our regional and state leaders are behind this common goal. Bringing an institution of that magnitude to Wright-Patt would be transformational for the Dayton region—strengthening our aerospace and defense economy, generating new investment and opportunities, and bringing even more activity right to Riverside’s doorstep.

From welcoming a new business and supporting new housing development to strengthening our relationship with Wright-Patt and staying connected with the people making decisions about our region’s future, these past few weeks have been another great reminder that regional partnerships matter—and Riverside is right in the middle of the momentum.

Have a great week, Riverside!

— Mayor Pete

08/29/2026

Vote for Devin!!! 🔴🏈🔴

https://www.whio.com/sports/athlete-of-the-week/?fbclid=IwdGRjcAUAKpFwZG9mBWZkaWQWUNaWDwA8wezwumIj04KUhO7ETej0zGV4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR6Rs8d1dPOJi_7dMMq3z6-u8ZRlwhda6Pf5UxJZkvCPWejG-8oiVvpvF5UGFQ_aem_uzMnTgVuKDMPNofDliPFJw



Stebbins Indians Football

Damien McCormick for Mad River Board of Education

VideoEast Tennessee residents mourning loss of Dolly PartonFor many in East Tennessee, Dolly's Legacy isn't measured in records or awards, but rather in how she showed up for her community.August 29, 2026 at 2:21 pm EDT

08/27/2026

This Week with Mayor Pete...

It's been a busy and rewarding time here in Riverside!
I visited the Burkhardt Branch of the Dayton Metro Library and met with the wonderful people from the Children's Hunger Alliance. It was inspiring to see firsthand the important work they are doing to help children and families throughout our area. Thank you to State Representative Andrea White and Mad River Local Schools Board Member Damien McCormick, along with DML Executive Director Rachel Gut, for joining me.

We also celebrated National Night Out! Once again, our Riverside Ohio Police Department did an outstanding job organizing and hosting a fun, welcoming event that brought residents, families, and first responders together. The Riverside City Council was proud to support the Stebbins High School Career Academy students by funding the bounce house at their booth.

I also had the privilege of joining my friends John McManus-Montgomery County Treasurer and Kettering Mayor Bryan Suddith, MPA at the Dayton–Miami Valley AFL-CIO Golf Outing. Proceeds from the outing benefited worthwhile initiatives such as the Labor Food Pantry, the Secret Smiles Program, and The Building Futures MC3 Program, which prepares people for apprenticeships and well-paying careers in the skilled construction trades

Finally, Friday evening brought one of Riverside’s great community traditions—the annual Riverside Rumble football game!
The pregame Community Tailgate, hosted by the Mad River Local Schools Board of Education and joined by Evening Edge Todd Hollst of WHIO Radio1290 AM and State Representative Andrea White, was a terrific start to the evening. Special thanks to Kroger on Woodman for donating to the event, again this year!

hosted Archbishop Carroll, and this game was especially meaningful to me. I had the privilege of coaching young men now playing on both teams when they were younger, and so many of these players grew up together as neighbors and friends. Congratulations to both teams on a hard-fought game. Another stellar performance by the Mighty Indians and Coach Greg Bonifay led Stebbins to victory, which means the City Champs Trophy will remain on Harshman Road for another year!

Thank you to everyone who organized and supported these events—and to all the people working every day to make Riverside and our surrounding communities stronger!

07/27/2026

THIS WEEK WITH MAYOR PETE...

It has been a hectic—but celebratory—summer as our Country marks its 250th Birthday!

My wife, Becca, our son Jack, and I were honored to attend Governor Mike DeWine and First Lady Fran DeWine’s 50th Anniversary Ice Cream Social at their home in Cedarville. It was a wonderful celebration of history, public service, and Ohio’s important role in America’s story.

Becca and I were also proud to attend the ribbon-cutting and dedication of The Center for Community Impact & Innovation at the Main Library of the Dayton Metro Library. Through partnerships with local organizations, The Center will help ensure that individuals, families, nonprofits, small businesses, and corporations have the tools and support systems they need to succeed. It was great to see Montgomery County Commissioner Mary McDonald, State Senator Willis Blackshear Jr, DML Executive Director Rachel Gut, and DML All-Stars David Hicks, Debi Chess, and Dr. Karlos L. Marshall.

I also welcomed Montgomery County Treasurer John McManus to the best coffee shop around—Pettibone Coffee—to catch up on everything his office is doing for our community.

My family also checked out the new La Macarena Bar and Grill on Linden Avenue right here in the City of Riverside, Ohio. With World Cup excitement at full pitch, it was an exciting place to be! The staff was wonderful, the food was delicious, and we had a great experience. Be sure to check it out soon!

I was happy to attend the July Hope4Riverside meeting, hosted at the Riverside Municipal Building and led by Pastor Daniel Powell—with a little help from Chief Jackson, DC Vance, and Officer Toscani with our Riverside Ohio Police Department. I always appreciate the commitment of our faith community and public-safety partners to serving Riverside.

Finally, a HUGE SHOUT-OUT to my friend and Riverside businessman Tim Nartker! Mr. Narco Burger himself doesn’t just make great food—he is also assembling rain barrels for residents interested in installing one and applying for a credit on their stormwater utility fee.

It has been another busy and rewarding stretch of community, collaboration, and celebration!

06/21/2026

This Week with Mayor Pete...

It is a very busy and rewarding time in the City of Riverside, Ohio, highlighted by community celebrations, recognition of outstanding achievements, and support for our region's strong partnership with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

One of the week's most meaningful events for Rebecca and I was attending the 88th Air Base Wing Change of Command Ceremony at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force as guests of Lt. Gen. Donna Shipton, Commander of the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center. Joining me in the front row were Riverside City Manager Jesse Lightle and Mayor Dan Kirkpatrick of Fairborn, Mayor Don Adams of Beavercreek, and Mayor Bryan Suddith, MPA of Kettering, demonstrating our region's united support for Wright-Patterson and its mission.
The ceremony marked the transition of command from Col. Dustin Richards to Col. Jason Okumura, while Chief Master Sgt. Tessa M. Fontaine relinquished responsibility as Command Chief to Chief Master Sgt. Jason Vollmer.
Becca and I are especially grateful for the friendship and leadership of Col. Richards and Chief Fontaine. They have been tremendous community partners and have strengthened the bond between Wright-Patterson and the communities it serves. We wish them and their families all the best in their next assignments and look forward to welcoming Col. Okumura and Chief Vollmer to the Miami Valley. We can't wait to support you leading The Mighty 88th!

We also had the privilege of recognizing some of Riverside's brightest students during a recent City Council meeting. Council honored the Valedictorians and Salutatorians from Archbishop Carroll High School and Stebbins High School for their hard work, academic excellence, and leadership. These students represent the very best of our community, and we are excited to see the impact they will make in the years ahead.

In addition, the City Council recognized the latest graduates of the Riverside Citizens Academy. This outstanding program gives residents an inside look at city government, public safety, public works, and municipal operations. Congratulations to all who completed the program and demonstrated their commitment to learning more about and becoming more engaged in our community. Thanks to our stellar Council Clerk Katie Lewallen, MMC, for leading this initiative.

We also celebrated one of Riverside's favorite traditions—the St. Helen Parish Festival. My family and I once again enjoyed volunteering in the Corn Booth, and it was wonderful to spend time with so many friends, neighbors, and families throughout the weekend. Events like the St. Helen Festival showcase the strong sense of community that makes Riverside such a special place to call home. A huge thank you goes out to the countless volunteers, parish leaders, sponsors, and attendees who made this year's festival another tremendous success.

05/18/2026

This Week with Mayor Pete...

Rebecca and I had a wonderful time attending the Annual Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley Luncheon, where we celebrated my fellow Archbishop Carroll High School classmate, Amanda DeLotelle, receiving the Community Partner Award for her incredible nonprofit, Miami Valley Meals. Amanda’s work continues to make a tremendous difference across our community by serving those in need with compassion and dignity. Congratulations, Amanda, on this well-deserved recognition!

We also attended the Annual Dinner of the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission alongside fellow Riverside Council Members Steve Gaby, Andy Brown, and Brenda Fry. It was great to see another Carroll alum and good friend, Matt Joseph, receive the Regional Steward Award. This award recognizes individuals with an innovative spirit for solving regional challenges, building broad support around a shared vision, and advancing economic, social, and environmental progress throughout the Miami Valley. Congratulations to Matt on this outstanding honor and for his continued leadership in our region.

I also held a Town Hall Meeting with residents of the City of Riverside, Ohio, and was very encouraged by both the attendance and the lively discussion. I have always believed that good local government starts with listening, and I appreciate everyone who took the time to attend, ask questions, share concerns, and offer ideas. I am always willing to have conversations with the people of our community, and I look forward to holding another Town Hall soon.

Finally, I had the absolute honor of presenting Riverside resident Virginia Wehkamp with a Mayoral Proclamation in celebration of her 100th Birthday! Virginia moved into her brand new home in Mad River Township in 1954 and has been a pillar of her neighborhood ever since. What a joy it was to congratulate her on this remarkable milestone and to celebrate a century of life, family, and community.

Thank you to everyone who makes Riverside and the Miami Valley such a special place to call home!

04/27/2026

This Week with Mayor Pete...

It was a great week here in the City of Riverside, Ohio, and a reminder of just how strong our community is when people stay engaged and involved.

I had the opportunity to speak on the first night of our Riverside Citizens’ Academy. It’s always one of my favorite programs because it gives residents a behind-the-scenes look at how their city operates. I shared a simple message: community participation matters. When residents stay involved, ask questions, and take part in the process, it makes all of us better. Thanks to Katie Lewallen, CMC, for putting this program together and for getting Joe's Pizza!

I was also incredibly proud to host Pete LuPiba, Commissioner of the Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission for the State of Ohio, along with representatives from the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Education Outreach Office at Archbishop Carroll High School. They spent time with the student leaders of our Military Kids Club—an outstanding group of young people who represent the very best of Riverside and our strong connection to Wright-Patt. It was a great moment for our schools and our military families. Military Child Education Coalition® | MCEC®

A huge thank you to our local Kroger for stepping up once again as a great community partner by donating water for the After-Prom events at both Stebbins and Carroll. It may seem like a small gesture, but it makes a big difference for our students, and it does not go unnoticed.

I also want to recognize our Service Department for putting together another successful Community Clean-Up Day this past Saturday. When I stopped by, dozens of residents were already taking advantage of the opportunity. Thanks to our partners at Rumpke Waste & Recycling and Franklin Iron & Metal Corp. for helping make that possible. It was also great to run into State Representative Andrea White, who was out enjoying our bike trails with her husband—another reminder of the quality of life we’re building here in Riverside.

Finally, just a reminder that I’ll be hosting Mondays with the Mayor tonight, April 27, from 5:00–6:30 PM at City Hall in the Council Chambers. If you have a question, a concern, or want to stop by and say hello, I’d love to see you there.

Have a great week, Riverside!

04/15/2026

This Week with Mayor Pete...

Becca and I enjoyed a great update from the Dayton Metro Library and learned more about its new partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton. Thank you, Jeffrey Trzeciak and team, for innovating and moving the community forward.

We also had an incredible time celebrating the 20th anniversary of the F-22 Raptor alongside dignitaries from the State of Ohio and the United States Air Force. Riverside’s own Felita LaRock beautifully performed the National Anthem. What a night at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

We also formally said goodbye to Joshua Rauch, our City Manager for the past 4.5 years. It was meaningful to see so many regional leaders come to honor Josh and his service to Riverside, including Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Commander Colonel Dustin Richards. Right before his departure, Josh helped close the sale of the office complex at 5100 and 5200 Springfield Street and secured a long-term lease for City office space at a great rate for the next 10 years. An incredible swan song and a fitting end to a remarkable era of stewardship.

At Carroll High School, the leader of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati celebrated Mass with the students, and I was proud to see my son Jack take part in the service. It was an honor to have Archbishop Casey here in the City of Riverside, Ohio.

This past Saturday was also one of my favorite days of the year: the 3rd Annual East Catholic Classic Junior High Track & Field Invitational at Carroll. It's been so much fun helping out with the East Catholic Track & Field Team, and this event is always a blast. More than 140 athletes from six different schools competed, and the Mad River Middle School squad captured the overall championship. The trophy goes home with them until next year. My hats off to Coach Harper, Coach Janae, and Coach Ebonie on a tremendous effort.

It was a full week, and another reminder of how fortunate we are to be part of such a strong and connected community here in Riverside.