Public Meetings - Cleveland, Ohio

The Cleveland City Council Transportation and Mobility Committee met on October 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM to receive a presentation from Bike Cleveland on their annual bicyclist and pedestrian crash report. No legislation was considered. The meeting included discussion of crash data collection, public records access, video retention, infrastructure needs, and education. One member of the public provided testimony. Public Comments & Testimony - A member of the public, an honorary member of Bike Cleveland and a community advisory committee member at GCRTA, emphasized that everyone is a pedestrian first and that crash reports are essential for studying safety issues. He noted that bike lanes are often too narrow and lack protection, and that larger vehicles with blind spots pose risks. He urged that all crashes, regardless of prosecution, should be reported to improve safety. Discussion Items - Presentation by Bike Cleveland: Jenna Thomas (Advocacy Director) and Angela Trevisano presented the 2025 bicyclist and pedestrian crash report. They highlighted that less than 50% of 911 calls for such crashes receive an official OH1 state report, which is needed for insurance, legal action, and funding applications. They used a case study of a crash on Lakeside Avenue where video evidence corrected the initial fault finding, showing the pedestrian was in a crosswalk and the truck made an illegal left turn. - Public Records and Video Retention: The presenters noted that the city deletes surveillance footage after 30 days, making it difficult to obtain video before records requests are fulfilled. They requested extending retention to 60-90 days. They also noted delays in receiving dispatch notes and OH1s, which sometimes cause them to miss the 30-day window. - Data Disparities: The report incorporates 911 calls alongside OH1 reports, revealing that actual incidents are roughly double the number captured by state reports. This undercount may affect the city's competitiveness for safety funding. - Council Questions and Comments: - Councilman (Chair) asked about the turnaround time for public records requests and how Bike Cleveland is notified of crashes. The presenters explained they use the city's police calls for service dataset (updated every 24 hours) to identify incidents. - Councilman Casey asked about the breakdown of fatal crashes (mostly pedestrians) and whether the report tracks fault. He raised concerns about bicyclists not obeying traffic laws and asked about enforcement and education. The presenters said they plan to track fault more closely in 2025 and noted that education is part of their mission, but separate infrastructure is key to safety. - Councilman Grey noted that bike lanes are sometimes not used by cyclists, who ride in the street instead, causing conflicts with drivers. The presenters agreed that predictable behavior is important and suggested that wider bike lanes or better signage could encourage use. - Councilman Bishop asked about citywide recommendations. The presenters confirmed they are included in the report, largely drawn from the Vision Zero Action Plan. - Councilman Moore thanked Bike Cleveland for the report and shared a personal story about a bike accident. He also noted that he is participating in the "Week Without Driving" challenge. - The Chair asked if officers could use camera footage to retroactively file OH1 reports when no victim or witness is present. The presenters said yes, and the Chair suggested exploring that possibility. The Chair also mentioned a potential Safety Town program for education, with east and west side locations. Key Outcomes - Bike Cleveland presented the 2025 crash report, which includes ward-level data and recommendations. - Council members expressed appreciation for the report and committed to using it to prioritize street safety projects and funding. - The Chair indicated he would follow up with Councilman Kwetzik on improving public records access and transparency for council. - No formal votes were taken. The committee will continue to engage with Bike Cleveland on crash data, video retention policy, and potential safety education programs.

On September 30, 2025, the Cleveland City Council Safety Committee held a special meeting to receive an update on the 17th semiannual report from the federal monitoring team overseeing the consent decree with the Cleveland Division of Police (CDP). The meeting was chaired by Councilman Mike Polensek. The monitoring team, led by interim monitor Christine Cole, presented progress across ten substantive areas of the consent decree, highlighting 81 upgrades and zero downgrades in the latest reporting period. Council members engaged in detailed discussion on compliance status, recruitment, community engagement, financial costs, and future assessments. Discussion Items - Monitoring Team Introduction: Interim monitor Christine Cole introduced the team, noting changes since the departure of Hogan Lovells personnel. The team now includes retired police chiefs and subject matter experts. Cole emphasized the team's commitment to working with the city toward compliance. - Progress Overview: The 17th semiannual report, filed September 15, 2025, shows 81 upgrades in compliance ratings over the last five reports and only nine downgrades. The most recent period had no downgrades. The team reviewed five substantive areas this year through nine assessments. - Crisis Intervention Assessment: Filed with the court on September 26, 2025, this assessment found all paragraphs in either general compliance or substantial and effective compliance—the highest rating. Cole called the work "extraordinary." - Search and Seizure: A completed assessment of nearly 650 traffic and investigatory stops is under review by the city. Cole noted that articulation in reports is an area for further training. - Use of Force: The team reviewed all 268 Level 1 and Level 2 use-of-force cases from 2024 and 47 Level 3 cases from 2023–2024. A draft assessment is in progress. Team members reported significant improvement in officer conduct and supervisor accountability. - Community Engagement and Problem-Oriented Policing: Charles C. and Terrence Gordon noted increased officer presence in community meetings, block clubs, and park visits, as well as positive feedback from residents. The Community Police Commission is now fully seated and reviewing applicants for an executive director. - Accountability and Oversight: The Office of Professional Standards (OPS) reduced backlog under interim leadership. Internal Affairs has improved investigator onboarding and training. The Inspector General for safety services was hired during this period. - Supervision and Officer Intervention Plan (OIP): The OIP is being developed with vendor Benchmark Analytics. Supervision remains an area with many unassessed paragraphs, but the team reported increased supervisor engagement observed through body-worn camera reviews. - Financial Concerns: Council members raised the city's $10 million+ expenditure on the monitoring process and the need for efficiency. Cole explained that a newly proposed budget includes lower rates compared to the prior law firm, and that assessments are resource-intensive. A community survey (last done in 2018) has not been conducted; Cole acknowledged the monitor's responsibility and said conversations with the city and DOJ are ongoing. - Councilmember Questions: - Council President Griffin asked about sustaining progress post-consent decree and the role of AI in policing. Cole suggested the Community Police Commission as a long-term oversight body. - Several members discussed the need to streamline the multiple civilian oversight bodies (CPC, CRB, OPS, etc.) to avoid redundancy. - A councilmember inquired about a specific search-and-seizure incident; the team explained the complaint process via OPS or the district. - Councilwoman Slife requested access to the crisis intervention report for legislative work on "Tanisha's Law." Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The monitoring team will continue assessments in use of force, recruitment, hiring, training, equipment, and other areas. The city will review and provide feedback on pending assessments. Council members expressed a desire for the consent decree to conclude as soon as feasible, while acknowledging significant progress. The committee adjourned at approximately 3:00 PM, with a status conference scheduled in federal court that same day.

The Cleveland City Council met on September 29, 2025, under the leadership of Council President Blaine Griffin. The meeting included multiple public comments addressing issues such as recidivism, a proposed gas station, the Rainbow Terrace apartment explosion, homelessness, and public safety. The council also passed a series of ordinances and resolutions on consent and emergency passage, and recognized community leaders. Public Comments & Testimony - Dale Snyder (Rogo Inc., CDL training program) expressed frustration over a $35,000 grant dispute for a Class B CDL training vehicle, arguing the grant criteria were unclear. He stated his goal is to reduce recidivism through trucking careers and invited partnership with the city. He commended Council President Griffin and Mayor Bibb for their leadership. - Darryl Houston (resident of Bedford Heights) criticized city leadership for public infighting and spending on outside law firms. He urged Mayor Bibb and Council President Griffin to resolve disputes in-house and called for more attention to downtown development and public safety. He also mentioned plans to address the Cleveland Foundation and Marshall Recreation. - Paula First (Ward 11 resident) opposed the proposed conversion of the former CVS building at 12202 Madison Avenue into a gas station. She noted that Councilmembers Danny Kelly, Jenny Spencer, and candidates Tan Mai Shah and Nikki Hudson support a city purchase for a fire station. She stated the city offered $725,000 for the property, but the owner has refused, arguing the gas station is the only viable use. She also highlighted safety concerns due to vandalism. - Fauzi Badour (Ward 11 resident, Coalition for a Better Life) expressed support for Nikki Hudson, the presumptive incoming Ward 11 councilmember, stating she received donations from individuals across party lines but not from special interests. He criticized the proposal for a gas station on a site zoned for pedestrian overlay and called attention to breaches in city responsibility. - Brandon Krustowski (Edwin's Leadership and Restaurant Institute) urged council to "care more" about crime and violence, citing recent shootings and robberies. He noted that Cleveland is among the top ten most dangerous cities and suggested calling the National Guard if necessary. He thanked council members for their outreach. - Bridget Smith Jackson (East Cleveland resident) demanded transparency and accountability regarding the June 23, 2025 explosion at Rainbow Terrace apartments that killed Cordell Sheffield, injured two children, and displaced over 44 families (more than 150 people). She criticized the disparate response compared to an industrial explosion in Ward 5, calling for full site testing, a dedicated emergency response team, and better enforcement of housing codes. - Juan Collado Diaz (Ward 11 resident) challenged Mayor Bibb directly, reporting a homeless encampment of over 35 people near CSU and Superior Avenue. He argued that the mayor's office has not provided assistance and that police sweeps worsen the problem. He called for housing and support services rather than enforcement. - Josiah Quarles (Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless) linked public safety to affordable housing, landlord accountability, reentry programs, food access, and mental health interventions. He criticized council for hiring a former member who took a position with Flock (surveillance company) and raised concerns about police chases and the consent decree. He urged passage of Tanisha’s Law to integrate mental health crisis response into 911. Consent Calendar - Communications were filed regarding an oath of office for Luther Roddy (Community Police Commission), notice of intent to apply for state housing funding for Lorraine Avenue Redevelopment and Wade Park Station, and several liquor permit transfers/ownership changes. - Condolence resolution for Mary Simmons (Councilmember Hairston). - Congratulatory resolutions for: Lee Fisher, Officer Gloria Mercado, Clark School ribbon cutting, Jose Hernandez, Karen Camper Cox, Stephen House, Charles Scrugs Jr., Brian Anthony McCain, Anthony Henderson, Stanley House, Joseph M. Gallagher Pre-K to 8 School, Equality Ohio, and the President of Slovenia. - Recognition of Danny "Coach Boone" Solomon for 30 years of youth coaching and Officer Gloria Mercado for receiving the NOBLE Civil Rights Outstanding Youth Services Justice by Action Award. Discussion Items - The meeting featured extensive public testimony but no separate discussion items on the floor beyond procedural motions and recognitions. Key Outcomes - Legislation passed (14-0): Emergency ordinances and resolutions on first and second reading were suspended and adopted, including: - Amending water pollution control revenue bonds (Ordinance 1210-2025). - Cooperative agreement with Ohio Water Development Authority (Ordinance 1211-2025). - Supplementing codified ordinances on subpoenas for Community Police Commission (Ordinance 1214-2025). - Defining underspeed vehicles (Ordinance 1215-2025). - Establishing local government trust fund (Ordinance 1216-2025). - Pedestrian and bicycle improvements (Ordinance 1218-2025). - Sewer replacement and rehabilitation (Ordinances 1219-2025, 1220-2025). - Temporary employment agencies for parks and public works (Ordinance 1221-2025). - Nuisance abatement process (Ordinance 1222-2025). - Sale of city-owned property on East 90th Street for hotel development (Ordinance 1223-2025). - Fund transfers and amendments for HUD grants (Ordinances 1224-2025, 1225-2025). - Renaming Department of Economic Development to Department of Development (Ordinance 1226-2025). - Objection to liquor permit transfer (Resolution 1227-2025). - Withdrawing objection to liquor permit (Ordinance 1228-2025). - Various street vacation ordinances and consent to county road resurfacing. - Grant acceptance for impaired driving enforcement (Ordinance 950-2025). - Lease amendment for Police Commission office (Ordinance 1166-2025). - Tabled legislation: Several ordinances and resolutions were tabled, including a grant from Cuyahoga County for Urban Area Security Initiative, a smoke shop moratorium, cemetery bonds, underspeed vehicle legislation, and cemetery improvement authorization. - Next meeting: October 6, 2025, with a special committee meeting on September 30 at 2:00 PM regarding the federal monitor’s update on the Cleveland Police Department.

On Monday, September 29, 2025, at 6:03 PM, the Finance, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee convened. Chair called the meeting to order with council members present: Councilman McCormick, Councilwoman Santana, Councilman Conwell, and others. The committee considered several ordinances, including a lease extension for the Community Police Commission, compensation for planning commission alternates, a public safety grant, and a series of capital improvement plan ordinances. Community Police Commission Lease Extension (Ordinance 1166-2025) - The committee considered an emergency ordinance authorizing a one-year lease extension at 3631 Perkins Avenue. An amendment was made to change the name from "Cleveland Police Commission" to "Community Police Commission" throughout the ordinance, with legal approval dated September 25, 2025. Alex Norton, interim executive director, stated the extension is needed while exploring alternative spaces. Councilman Polensek asked about relocating to city-owned buildings and raised concerns about delays in ratifying police district commanders. Councilman Casey questioned whether the commission was paying trash removal twice; it was clarified they pay once. The ordinance was approved as amended. City Planning Commission Alternates Compensation (Ordinance 984-2025) - City planning staff requested $187 per official meeting for alternates to address quorum issues, matching the Board of Building Standards' rate. Council members discussed whether the amount would incentivize participation and whether funds were already in the planning budget (yes). Two interested alternates have been identified. The ordinance was approved. Public Safety Grant (Ordinance 950-2025) - The Ohio Department of Public Safety grant for FY2026 Impaired Driving Enforcement and Selective Traffic Enforcement Programs in the amount of $46,054 was presented. No cash match is required; funds cover overtime, educational materials, and transportation. The city has received this grant annually since 2008. Approved unanimously. Capital Improvement Plan Ordinances (846, 847, 848, 852, 853-2025 as amended) - A series of companion ordinances authorizing capital projects for facilities, recreation, roads/bridges, and vehicle acquisitions were discussed. The administration presented the 2025 capital improvement plan, noting only projects ready for encumbrance this year are included; others will carry over to 2026. Several amendments were made: correcting "bond" to "bond or note" in three ordinances, and updating the vehicle lists for ordinances 852 and 853. The updated vehicle list includes heavy vehicles totaling $2,690,000 (e.g., loaders, trucks) and light vehicles totaling $2,690,000 (e.g., pickups, vans, SUVs) for various departments. Councilman Polensek criticized the use of light-duty pickups, urged citywide funding for cameras and speed tables, and asked about a red brick street program. Councilwoman Spencer clarified the new process: carryover projects are guaranteed for the 2026 capital improvement plan, and bonds will be issued closer to expenditure to avoid interest costs. All five ordinances were approved as amended. Neff Road Resurfacing and Pedestrian Facilities (Ordinance 1078-2025 as amended) - An amendment clarified that the city is responsible for costs of upgrading pedestrian facilities (sidewalk, railing under railroad tracks) beyond the county’s 50/50 cost-sharing. Councilman Harrison noted the poor condition of the bridge and sidewalk and urged continued efforts with CSX and other partners. Approved. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 1166-2025 approved as amended (lease extension) - Ordinance 984-2025 approved (planning alternates compensation) - Ordinance 950-2025 approved (public safety grant) - Ordinances 846, 847, 848, 852, 853-2025 all approved as amended (capital improvement plan) - Ordinance 1078-2025 approved as amended (Neff Road pedestrian facilities) - The committee adjourned, with thanks to Councilman Bishop and Ms. Satan for their work.

The Municipal Services and Properties Committee of Cleveland City Council met on September 29, 2025, to consider a resurfacing project on Neff Road and a series of bond ordinances for the 2025 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The meeting began with a discussion and vote on Ordinance 1078-2025, followed by a detailed presentation on the proposed shift in the city's borrowing strategy to align debt issuance with actual project execution. Councilmembers debated the new approach, vehicle purchases, and oversight measures before approving multiple ordinances with amendments. Discussion Items - Ordinance 1078-2025 – Neff Road Resurfacing (County Project): Director of Capital Projects explained the county-led Neff Road resurfacing project, which includes under-bridge improvements (railings, concrete, sidewalk work) estimated at about $50,000. Councilman Casey offered an amendment capping the cost of the amended scope at $65,000, which was approved. Councilman Harrison noted the poor condition of the bridge pillars and expressed satisfaction with progress. The ordinance passed as amended. - 2025 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and Bond Strategy: Director of Capital Projects presented an updated CIP, explaining that the original $76 million plan is being split into two parts: $36,044,000 to be funded in 2025 (with executed contracts or purchases), and the remainder ($36.5 million) carried over to 2026. This shift is part of a new approach to borrow only what is needed for executed contracts, reducing debt service costs. Finance Director estimated using cash on hand and then reimbursing through bonds at year-end. Councilman McGray and others questioned the legality of reimbursing the city via bonds and the use of reserve funds; Finance Director confirmed bond counsel approval. Councilman Starr raised concerns about oversight, leading to amendments requiring written notice to the Clerk of Council for cooperative purchases and limiting contract terms to two years. - Vehicle Purchase Amendments: Assistant Director Chambers revised vehicle lists to reflect removal of issuance fees. Light vehicle total changed from $3 million to $2,690,000; heavy vehicles from $2 million to $1,290,000. Amendments by Councilman Starr updated these figures in the ordinances. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 1078-2025 (Neff Road): Approved as amended. The scope of the under-bridge improvements shall not exceed $65,000. - Ordinance 846-2025 (Public Facilities): Approved as amended. Amendments included inserting file numbers, limiting contract terms to two years, and requiring written notice to the Clerk of Council for cooperative purchases. - Ordinance 847-2025 (Recreation Facilities): Approved as amended. Similar oversight amendments added. - Ordinance 848-2025 (Roads and Bridges): Approved as amended. Similar oversight amendments added. - Ordinance 852-2025 (Heavy Vehicles): Approved as amended. Total funding set at $1,290,000; oversight requirements added. - Ordinance 853-2025 (Light Vehicles): Approved as amended. Total funding set at $2,690,000; oversight requirements added. All ordinances passed with aye votes; no roll call was recorded. The committee adjourned after approving the last ordinance.

The Safety Committee met on September 24, 2025, to consider three ordinances and discuss traffic enforcement, pursuit policies, and public safety. The committee approved two items and held one for revision. Public comment was heard from a business owner. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Taylor, a business owner attempting to start operations under the proposed underspeed vehicle ordinance, expressed frustration with the 27-month delay and the decision to hold the legislation due to a formatting issue. He stated he had already invested money and marketed the concept. The Chair explained the legislative process and that additional amendments required careful review. Discussion Items - Ordinance 820-2025 (Corporate Sponsorships for City Facilities) – Director of Parks and Recreation Alex Nichols presented the proposal to authorize $35,000 for consultants to study and sell corporate sponsorships for city facilities. He clarified that existing named facilities (e.g., Lonnie Burton Recreation Center) would retain their names, with sponsors added similarly to Playhouse Square. Chief Two (COO) noted this supports the underfunded parks master plan. Councilmember House Jones raised concerns about evaluating current building names for historical appropriateness. An amendment requiring legislative approval for any naming or sponsorship was added. The committee approved the ordinance as amended. - Ordinance 808-2025 (Underspeed Vehicles) – The ordinance, introduced July 9, 2025, came with extensive amendments adding application requirements and an appeal process. City Planning Director Callie Mersman explained the amendments refined operational aspects. Several council members (Casey, Starr, Kelly, Slife) recommended holding the item and asking for a clean substitute rather than voting on a heavily amended document. Despite a plea from business owner Chris Taylor, the committee voted to hold the ordinance until the next meeting. Councilmember House Jones questioned the delay in providing updated materials. - Ordinance 950-2025 (Traffic Enforcement Grants) – The ordinance authorized applying for $46,054.10 from the Ohio Department of Public Safety for impaired driving and selective traffic enforcement (STEP) programs, with no cash match required. The grant funds overtime for traffic enforcement on high-incidence holidays (e.g., 4th of July, New Year’s Eve). Council members expressed strong concern about widespread speeding and reckless driving in neighborhoods and school zones. Discussion included requests for data on traffic tickets issued, pursuit policies, and coordination with the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Councilman Casey asked for statistics on tickets over the last 10 years. Councilman Slife criticized the charter prohibition on traffic cameras and state-level restrictions on automated enforcement. - Traffic Enforcement and Pursuit Policies – Councilman Casey requested the current Cleveland police pursuit policy, the sheriff’s policy, and information on when they were last updated. Councilwoman House Jones requested details on enforcement discrepancies between downtown establishments (e.g., Play) and neighborhood bars. Chief stated that different agencies operate under their own pursuit policies and that mutual aid agreements exist. Councilman Starr noted a prior request about suburban police pursuits inside Cleveland. - Drones and National Guard – The Chair indicated the committee will later request a presentation on drone implementation for police and fire. He also stated that he had spoken to Congressman Max Miller and expressed opposition to deploying the National Guard in Cleveland, emphasizing that such a step is not needed at this time. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 820-2025 was approved as amended, with legislative approval now required for any naming or sponsorship changes. (Unanimous consent recorded.) - Ordinance 808-2025 was held and the administration directed to submit a clean substitute with all amendments incorporated. The committee will hear it at the next meeting. - Ordinance 950-2025 was approved. (Unanimous consent.) - The committee directed staff to provide traffic ticket statistics, pursuit policies (Cleveland PD and sheriff), and last review dates for those policies. - A future presentation on drone operations will be scheduled.

The meeting on September 23, 2025, had no available agenda or minutes. The only recorded remark was a single statement from an unidentified participant. Discussion Items - An unidentified participant stated, "I learned a lot." No other topics or deliberations were captured. Key Outcomes - No votes, decisions, or formal actions occurred.

The Municipal Services and Properties Committee convened on September 23, 2025, to consider a series of routine land-use ordinances and three major discussion items. The committee unanimously approved several street vacations and an encroachment permit, and advanced a new ordinance authorizing the use of under-speed vehicles (golf carts) for legitimate business purposes, along with a compensation adjustment for City Planning Commission alternates. Consent Calendar - Ordinance 719-2025 – Authorized the Director of Capital Projects to issue a permit to the Northeast Ohio Hispanic Center for Economic Development (Centrovilla) to encroach into the public right-of-way on West 25th Street for the installation of bollards to improve pedestrian safety. The bollards had been installed without prior permission; the ordinance allowed them to remain. Approved. - Ordinance 955-2025 – Resolution of intent to vacate all of the unnamed alley south of Abbey Avenue. Two abutting property owners jointly requested the vacation of a paper alley to create a shared access drive for adjacent development. Approved. - Resolutions 956, 957, 958-2025 – Three related resolutions to vacate portions of West Third Street for the Bedrock project. Resolution 956 vacated the street end at the Cuyahoga River for a kayak launch; 957 vacated a portion in front of the Cavs Clinic to create a uniform 70-foot width; 958 vacated an additional portion to achieve uniform width. A consultant for Bedrock, Jean-Michel Lemon, provided background. All approved. - Ordinance 976-2025 – Partially vacated a portion of West 48th Street and Raven Court to allow a homeowner to build a second home or garage on the excess right-of-way beyond the tree lawn and sidewalk. Approved. - Ordinance 977-2025 – Vacated portions of Lorraine Court, West 48th Place, and Turn Avenue to facilitate redevelopment of the Urban Community School campus. The vacated areas were previously roadways; fire hydrants and access were addressed per the Fire Department’s requirements. Approved. - Ordinance 978-2025 – Vacated the remaining portion of Sherman Court, a paper street, to give property owners more flexibility for redevelopment. Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were recorded. Discussion Items - Ordinance 808-2025 – Under-Speed Vehicle (Golf Cart) Ordinance – Sponsored by Councilmembers McCormick, Bishop, and Harrison, this emergency ordinance authorizes the use of under-speed vehicles (golf carts) on city streets for legitimate business purposes only. The Director of City Planning explained that the legislation was prompted by businesses seeking to use golf carts for short trips between entertainment districts, tours, and mobility for limited-mobility individuals. The ordinance requires registration, a $150 annual inspection per vehicle (conducted by the Bureau of Traffic), proof of ownership, a business certificate from the Ohio Secretary of State, and compliance with Ohio Revised Code equipment standards. The Director of Public Safety may establish restricted service areas and revoke operating consent after a written notice and hearing process. Key concerns raised by the committee: - Councilman Hash asked whether residential use or ATV/dirt bike adaptation would be allowed; committee confirmed the ordinance is limited to commercial use and prohibits private use. - Councilman Slife questioned the restriction to commercial use, suggesting flexibility for personal use could promote environmentally friendly transportation. The administration stated the commercial-first approach is a pilot phase to gain experience before expanding to personal use. - Chair expressed concern about service areas: the ordinance grants the Director of Public Safety authority to restrict areas, but the committee wants council notification and engagement before new areas are added, especially in neighborhoods. This will be addressed before the next committee stop (Finance). - The ordinance as amended includes provisions for suspension, revocation, and appeals (to the Court of Common Pleas). The committee requested that the appeal option be explicitly stated in the ordinance language. - An amendment to waive the inspection fee for nonprofit vehicles was discussed but not adopted due to concerns about ensuring safety inspections. - Ordinance 984-2025 – Planning Commission Compensation – An emergency ordinance to amend the codified ordinances to set compensation for alternate members of the City Planning Commission at $187 per diem, matching the rate for alternates on the Board of Building Standards and Zoning Appeals. The rate was established in 2022. Councilwoman noted that compensation across boards should be more equitable given varying time commitments. The committee approved the ordinance but indicated a broader review of board compensation is needed. Key Outcomes - All eight ordinances/resolutions were approved by the committee and advanced to the next hearing (Safety Committee for Ordinance 808; Finance Committee for others as applicable). - Ordinance 808-2025 will be further refined regarding council notification for service area expansion before the Finance hearing. - Ordinance 984-2025 passed as presented, with the understanding that a comprehensive review of board compensation will occur later in the year.

The Cleveland City Council held its regular meeting on September 22, 2025, at City Hall. The meeting included public comments, the passage of numerous ordinances and resolutions, and a farewell tribute to Councilmember Kerry McCormick, who will leave the council. All votes were unanimous (16-0) unless noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Reverend Pamela Pinckney (Pamela's People's Action Committee, Mothers' Lives Matter) spoke about the undervalued role of mothers in society, citing lack of resources and recognition, particularly for non-white mothers. She called for greater support and an end to systemic blame. - Milana Mills (Mothers' Lives Matter) shared her personal story of trauma and survival, promoting her book "The Little Girl Who Led the March for the Black Nationalist." - Brenda Bickerstaff (Citizens for Safer Cleveland, Ward 9) requested under Ohio Revised Code 149.43 a copy of the investigator file regarding the censure of Councilman Joe Jones. She argued that council members voted without full information and criticized the process. - Daryl Houston (Bedford Heights) expressed frustration with the council's handling of the Jones matter, emphasized due process, and complained about discrimination in business leasing downtown. He threatened to file public records requests. - Stephanie Thomas (Ward 11, self-represented) opposed a proposed gas station at the former CVS on West Boulevard and Madison. She shared her recovery story and argued the station would harm the neighborhood, especially a sober house she manages. She urged the council to table the legislation. - Fauzi Badour (Coalition for Better Cleveland, Ward 11) opposed the same gas station, noting that the Board of Zoning Appeals and Planning Commission had denied variances. He referenced the September primary election results, stating that voters in the Codell and Edgewater neighborhoods opposed the gas station and that Councilman Danny Kelly should honor their will. - David Hill (representing Play, Cleveland) spoke against the city's decision to board up Play in the Flats after a shooting. He argued the venue was unfairly labeled a public nuisance and that the city's actions stigmatized his business and employees. - Amber Gibbs (CEO, Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities) highlighted the 20th anniversary of the board's 3.9-mill continuous levy, which provides 2/3 of its $180 million budget. She reported serving 5,000 Cleveland residents and 15,000 countywide (a 20% increase since 2005). She detailed services provided and announced recent accessibility upgrades in city parks and facilities. - Kareem Hinton (Black Lives Matter, Ward 14) called for scrutiny of the Sheriff's Department after two fatal vehicle pursuits, both initiated by the same deputy. He cited the March 28, 2025 death of a nurse and the August 24, 2025 death of a mother of two, and argued the deputy was not removed from duty after the first incident. Legislation and Resolutions All legislation was passed unanimously (16-0) after motions to suspend the rules. First Reading – Emergency Ordinances: - Ordinance 1168-2025: Authorizing contracts for calibration and maintenance of water testing equipment (Hatch Company). - Ordinance 1174-2025: Renaming a portion of E. 159th Street to Euclid Beach Boulevard. - Ordinance 1170-2025: Loan agreement with Gateway 66 Limited Partnership for affordable housing in Ward 7. - Ordinance 1173-2025: Amendment to a prior agreement with Bel Air Puritist Development Corporation. First Reading – Emergency Resolutions: - Resolution 1171-2025: Withdrawing objection to liquor permit transfer at 15521 St. Clair Avenue. - Resolution 1172-2025: Objecting to a new liquor permit at 12107 St. Clair Avenue. - Resolution 1176-2025: Designating October 2025 as Sudden Unexpected Death and Epilepsy Awareness Month. - Resolution 1177-2025: Objecting to a new liquor permit at 7123 Lorain Avenue. Second Reading – Emergency Ordinances (27 items): Included contracts for landscape materials, petroleum fuels, bonds for trucks and equipment ($8.5M), park improvements ($12M), buildings ($25.5M), street improvements ($28M), water meter maintenance, debris disposal, fencing, HVAC, backup electrical gear, proprietary replacement parts for port control, roof repairs, lease for a podcast studio at Burke Lakefront Airport, snow removal, radiation monitoring, tax abatement exemption, and grants for specialized dockets. Councilwoman Stephanie House Jones noted that the amended amounts for ordinances 673-678 were not reflected in the titles read, but the clerk confirmed the amendments would carry in the official record. Second Reading – Emergency Resolutions: - Resolution 1098-2025: Requesting county fiscal officer advances for 2026. - Resolution 1099-2025: Accepting tax levy rates and certifying them to the county. Condolence and Congratulatory Resolutions - Five resolutions of condolence were adopted for individuals including Hazel A. Coleman, Samuel Thomas Jackson Jr., Joseph DeJarnett Jr., Ernest Farmer, and Lizette Quinones. - Congratulatory resolutions recognized Felicia Latrice Morton, Village Family Farms Thurgood Marshall Green Grand Opening, Western Reserve Conservancy, Lewis Stokes Visionary Award, and East Technical High School Class of 1975. Introductions and Announcements - Councilman Michael Palencic introduced former County Commissioner Tim McCormick and the family of Councilman Kerry McCormick. - Councilman Anthony Hairston introduced Housing Court Judge W. Monet Scott and her staff. - Councilman Brian Casey announced the third annual Music Keynote presentation to the band Bone Thugs-n-Harmony on Sunday, September 28, 2025 at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. - Councilwoman Stephanie House Jones invited the public to the Commission for Black Women and Girls meeting on October 1 and the Mid-Autumn Festival on September 27. - Councilman Joe Jones announced a Housing Court Resource Clinic on September 25 at the Harvard Community Service Center. - Councilman Richard Starr announced a Housing Court Resource Clinic on October 16 in the now Ward 9/future Ward 6 area. Farewell to Councilmember Kerry McCormick Council President Blaine Griffin led a tribute to Councilman Kerry McCormick, who attended his last regular meeting after nine and a half years representing Ward 3. Griffin praised McCormick as a dedicated public servant and friend. Councilmembers Jasmine Santana, Richard Starr, Michael Palencic, Brian Casey, and Kevin Conwell offered heartfelt remarks. McCormick gave an emotional farewell speech, recalling key moments of joy, tragedy, hope, help, progress, community, challenge, and love during his service. He thanked his family, including his father Tim McCormick (former county commissioner), his partner Daniel, and introduced his successor Lauren Welsh, who will fill the remainder of his term. Key Outcomes - All 30+ ordinances and resolutions were passed unanimously (16-0). - The council bid farewell to Councilman Kerry McCormick, with his successor Lauren Welsh set to assume the Ward 3 seat. - No other votes or formal actions were taken.