2025 December Employee Newsletter

Open Enrollment has ended - remember to visit the City of Gahanna’s Benefits Landing Page for all the latest benefit details. You can access this resource anytime to explore your options and make informed choices 👍

We have a brand-new wellness program called PeopleEQ, powered by WellRight!
- Check your inbox! Look for an email from PeopleEQ@wellnessiq.net — it includes your link and instructions to register. If you did not receive the email, please contact HR@gahanna.gov
- Earn rewards! Details on incentives, requirements, and the full program guide are all on the Wellness tab of the City of Gahanna Benefits Landing Page.
- Our wellness program with PeopleEQ started on November 1, 2025 – you can already begin completing activities in PeopleEQ.
New Benefit Programs starting on January 1, 2026:

12/9: Employee Awards & Recognition Luncheon – 11:00am @ The Menlo!
Please plan to arrive around 10:30
12/24 & 12/25: City Hall CLOSED for Holiday Observation
12/26: 2026 Telework Program Requests
- It is time to renew, or request, telework for 2026 for eligible employees. The policy and form can be found in the Employee Handbook beginning on page 41. You can find the Handbook in ESS on the “Resources menu” at the top right. All 2025 approved requests end on 12/31/25 unless otherwise noted in your approval. As a reminder, employees are not permitted to work from home without approval through this policy unless HR has approved your telework request for another reason.
- If you would like to telework in 2026, please complete the form, and seek approval from your supervisor. Supervisors- - after approval, please forward the form via email to Rene Carter, IT Director, then it will be reviewed by the Senior Director of Administrative Services, or designee.
- 2026 requests are due to Director Carter by December 29, 2025. Please contact HR with any questions!
1/1: City Hall CLOSED for Holiday Observation

Winter Weather & Holiday Safety Tips!
Our recent first snowfall of the season is a reminder to stay safe as temperatures drop. Please keep these quick tips in mind:

Cold Weather Safety

Dress in layers, including a moisture-wicking base and a wind-resistant outer layer. Don’t forget hats, gloves, and proper footwear.
Stay warm and hydrated and take regular breaks in heated areas.
Prevent slips by walking carefully, using handrails, and watching for icy spots.
Know the signs of cold stress—such as confusion, fatigue, or shivering—and seek help immediately if they occur.
Take time to scrape off ice and show from your vehicle’s windshield and windows before you hit the road!

Holiday & Indoor Safety

Inspect decorations and lights, avoid overloading outlets, and keep flammable items away from heat sources.
Water live trees daily and never leave candles unattended.
Ensure fire extinguishers and first aid kits are accessible and stocked.
Follow proper food-safety practices when preparing holiday meals.

Stay safe and enjoy the season!

What do you call a snowman with a six-pack?

Val Louis is our newest Project Administrator with Recreation. Val enjoys being a DJ, traveling around the world to play at concerts and special events! He also spends his time creating memories with his family, like coaching his kids, going on spontaneous road trips, and having family cookouts.

Andrew Starner is our newest Fleet Technician. Andrew enjoys being a husband and father, and spending time coaching his son’s soccer team – GO ELITE!

Joanna Asuncion is our newest Project Administrator with Engineering. Joanna enjoys spending time with her husband and two cats, spending time outdoors, traveling, and rockhounding!