Public Meetings - Cleveland, Ohio

The committee met on September 14, 2026, at approximately 6:24 PM EDT to consider several ordinances and a resolution. Key items included a supplemental appropriation for rock salt, refunding of bond anticipation notes, a vision zero funding update, and a resolution urging the USPS to improve mail access for seniors. All agenda items were approved. Discussion Items - Vision Zero Funding and Ordinance 926-2026 (as amended): Council discussed the status of the Vision Zero program, which was initiated by council. A total of $84,000 remains in the general fund Vision Zero pot. Starting this year, the administration proposed allocating $500,000 annually for spot treatments, with the goal of achieving Vision Zero by 2032. Councilman Michael Palletti requested additional details on planned infrastructure (e.g., "Mavic Islands" delineators) for specific locations (Lakeshore, Shore Acres, and 162 Waterloo). The ordinance was approved after discussion. - Rock Salt Supplemental – Ordinance 904-2026: The administration requested an additional $1,064,980 to purchase 14,000 tons of rock salt, citing a depleted inventory (currently 15,000–16,000 tons on hand, needing 30,000 tons by year-end) and rising prices ($12/ton increase). Funding would come from an anticipated overage in EMS billing revenue (budgeted $18 million; $16.7 million collected as of August, with four months remaining). Councilman Brian Casey questioned the timing and reliability of EMS collections, but the director stated it was very unlikely to fall short. The purchase would bring inventory to 30,000 tons by December 31, and new salt domes (four refurbished, one new) would increase storage capacity. The ordinance was approved. - Bond Refunding Ordinances (916-920 2026): Five ordinances authorized the issuance and sale of bonds to retire outstanding bond anticipation notes (BANs) issued earlier to fund capital projects. Amounts ranged from $1,385,000 (heavy-duty trucks) to $13,975,000 (street improvements). No new borrowing was involved; these were refunding actions to lock in rates. Councilman Michael Palletti asked about interest rate trends, and the director noted that rates are likely rising despite federal pressures. Councilman Casey requested a cost-savings analysis comparing the old borrowing method to the new strategy. All five ordinances were approved. - Resolution 956-2026 (Councilmember Starr): An emergency resolution urging the United States Postal Service to establish an age-friendly mail access working committee. Councilmember Starr highlighted that 95 senior apartment buildings exist in Cleveland; many seniors face difficulty sending outgoing mail (bills, medical records) due to lack of accessible mailboxes or outgoing slots. The resolution calls for collaboration between USPS, Cleveland City Council, the Department of Aging, CMHA, and housing providers to restore blue mailboxes or install outgoing slots at senior facilities. The resolution was approved. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 926-2026 (as amended) – Vision zero funding approval. - Ordinance 904-2026 – Rock salt supplemental appropriation approval. - Ordinances 916-2026, 917-2026, 918-2026, 919-2026, 920-2026 – Bond refunding approvals. - Resolution 956-2026 – Urging USPS age-friendly mail access initiative; approved. The meeting adjourned after concluding the committee's business.

The Municipal Services and Properties (MSP) Committee of Cleveland City Council met on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 1:24 PM to consider eight ordinances. The committee approved all items, with amendments to several. Key discussions included funding for CMSD extracurriculars, a land swap for a new Glenville High School, a pedestrian safety grant, and green infrastructure improvements. Discussion Items Ordinance 922-2026: CMSD Comprehensive Extracurricular Activities Program (SEEP) - Purpose: Authorizes $950,000 in city funds for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District's (CMSD) extracurricular, recreational, and cultural programs for the 2025-2026 school year (amended from 2024-2025). - Background: The partnership dates to 1996, originally funded by a parking tax related to the Browns stadium. - Debate: Councilman Brian Casey questioned why CMSD, with a $1.6 billion budget, needs city funds, noting that only $200,000 of CMSD's budget goes to the requested programs. He also raised a broken promise about a track at John Marshall High School. Councilman Richard Starr delivered a lengthy critique of varsity sports safety, citing incidents with guns, inadequate security, poor facilities (e.g., players changing under bleachers), and lack of game-day technology. He called for a joint safety committee hearing. Councilwoman Deborah Gray expressed support but shared a personal conflict with a CMSD board member. Councilwoman Nikki Hudson confirmed the program keeps CMSD a "no pay-to-play" district. - Outcome: Approved as amended (year corrected to 2025-2026). Ordinance 912-2026: Public Auditorium Food and Beverage Concession - Purpose: Authorizes a competitive RFP for a new concessionaire at Public Auditorium, replacing current provider Levy. - Details: Levy has served for three years; current agreement expires in February 2027. City receives 16% commission (15% on sales, 1% on utilities), generating $147,000 in 2025. - Outcome: Approved. Ordinance 911-2026: Cleveland Guardians Charities Grant - Purpose: Accept $80,000 grant from Guardians Charities for summer baseball and softball youth programming. - Outcome: Approved. Ordinance 748-2026: Ohio City Inc. Near West Recreation - Purpose: $100,000 contract with Ohio City Inc. for youth recreation programming (sports, summer camps). - Debate: Councilman Casey questioned why only this organization receives $100k, while other west side leagues (e.g., OBOL, West Denison) do not. Kerry La Palma of Near West Rec explained they serve 1,500 kids across eight neighborhoods, with only two staff. Councilman Chris Harsh praised the program's inclusivity. - Outcome: Approved. Ordinance 927-2026: Land Exchange with CMSD - Purpose: Authorizes a property swap: City gives J. Glenn Smith Health Center, two land bank parcels near Glenville, and a lot near Denison Elementary; CMSD gives Walton School (for new fire station) and Newton D. Baker School (for redevelopment). - Debate: Councilman Conwell demanded assurance the new school will be named Glenville High School and that a health center remain on the east side. He withheld support until confirmed. Councilman Starr questioned the cost of demolitions (estimated $1.3M per school) and fairness to other closed schools that have waited years. He also noted enrollment declines and worried about future school closures. Councilman Slife supported the swap for housing redevelopment at Newton D. Baker. - Outcome: Approved. City will demolish the schools; Newton D. Baker demolition cannot use capital bonds. Ordinance 926-2026: ODOT Pedestrian Safety Improvement Program - Purpose: Accept $1,640,368 ODOT grant for pedestrian safety improvements at 18 locations across 7 wards (1,5,7,8,10,13,15). City match $455,665.65 from Vision Zero fund. - Improvements: Flashing beacons, hybrid beacons, high-visibility crosswalks, refuge islands, curb extensions. - Debate: Councilman Harsh criticized ODOT for funding crosswalks while neglecting State Road (a state route) resurfacing. He successfully offered an amendment requiring council be notified of any cost overruns. Councilwoman Gray questioned why Kinsman Road (55-60 crashes/year) was not included. Cameron Roberts explained locations were chosen based on proximity to public facilities and prior to his tenure. Director confirmed a striping project is planned for Kinsman from East 55th to East 93rd. - Outcome: Approved as amended (notification of overages). Ordinance 921-2026: Street Vacation near Hopkins Airport - Purpose: Vacate portions of five streets (Forrestwood, Midvale, W. 185th, W. 188th, W. 190th) on 30 acres of city-owned land north of Cleveland Hopkins Airport for redevelopment. - Amendments: Corrected legal descriptions and added language for release of utility easements. - Outcome: Approved as amended. Ordinance 769-2026: Green Infrastructure Grant for Capitol Theater Parking Lot - Purpose: Accept $250,000 NEORSD grant for green infrastructure (permeable pavers, bioretention) at the city-owned Gordon Square parking lot, combined with $522,000 from CIP for resurfacing. - Debate: Councilman Shaw raised maintenance concerns, noting the city has not maintained existing green infrastructure. Councilwoman Hudson questioned whether the city has equipment for permeable paver maintenance. Director acknowledged the city's poor track record but said the Gordon Square Arts District (CID) will handle maintenance. - Outcome: Approved as amended (restructured to separate city and grant work). Key Outcomes - All eight ordinances were approved, several with amendments. - Councilman Harsh's amendment to Ordinance 926-2026 passed (council notification of ODOT overages). - Councilman Starr requested a joint safety committee hearing on varsity sports security. - Councilman Shaw announced plans to introduce a motion to swear in witnesses at future committee hearings. - Council members noted ongoing concerns about CMSD funding equity, pedestrian safety on Kinsman Road, and maintenance of green infrastructure.

The Cleveland City Council convened on August 28, 2026, at 16:50:26 UTC, with a moment of silence and the Pledge of Allegiance. No agenda or minutes were available for this meeting, so this summary is based on the raw transcript. The council considered an emergency resolution objecting to the renewal of a liquor permit, handled the previous meeting's journal, excused three absences, and adjourned. Consent Calendar - Councilmember Casey moved, seconded by Councilmember Hudson, to suspend the rules so the reading of the previous meeting's minutes could be dispensed with and the journal approved. The transcript records the roll call as eleven yeas. Emergency Resolution 1021-2026 - Councilmember Hudson introduced Resolution 1021-2026 as a first-reading emergency resolution objecting to the renewal of a C2 and C2X liquor permit at a location transcribed as 'seventy.' - On the roll call for passage of the emergency resolution, the transcript records twelve yes votes; no no votes are transcribed. Key Outcomes - Resolution 1021-2026 passed with twelve affirmative votes. - By motion of Councilmember Casey, the absences of Councilmembers House Jones, Jones, and Starr were excused. - Council adjourned to the call of the chair; the next meeting is scheduled for September 14, 2026.

At the meeting, city officials and attendees discussed the historical murder of Robert E. Mercer, whose body was found buried in the basement of the three-million-dollar Cleveland City Hall. The discussion centered on the ancient tradition of human sacrifice to strengthen buildings, drawing parallels to this unsolved case. The speaker noted that the foundation of the building was bathed in Mercer's blood, and that the case remains unsolved with no arrests made. Historical Background - The tradition of walling in a human sacrifice to strengthen city walls and buildings dates back to the Dark Ages. - Cleveland's City Hall construction involved the murder of Robert E. Mercer, a young timekeeper, whose body was discovered in the sub-basement by detectives. - Detectives found the body with valuables intact, ruling out robbery. A former night watchman was arrested but released when no true bill was found. Discussion Items - The speaker described the murder as a possible repetition of the ancient sacrifice tradition, questioning whether it would bring good luck or structural strength to the building. - The building is nearing completion and will be dedicated the following fall, housing city archives and council chambers. - The speaker noted that the mystery may never be solved, and the story will likely be embellished over time. Key Outcomes - No decisions or votes were taken. The murder investigation remains unresolved, with police having paused their efforts. - The matter was left as an open historical question, with no further action proposed.

The Cleveland City Council convened on August 19, 2026, at 7:42 PM. The meeting began with a warning about disruptions, followed by the reading of communications, condolence and congratulatory resolutions, and the passage of numerous emergency ordinances. Councilman Starr introduced two initiatives during the miscellaneous period, focusing on grocery access and mail access for seniors. The meeting adjourned to the call of the chair, with the next meeting scheduled for September 14, 2026. Consent Calendar - Communications: Filed notices from city directors, including acceptance of water supply loans, oaths of office, a debt policy summary, and a plat dedication. Multiple liquor license transfer and new license applications were read for various wards. - Condolence Resolutions: Recognized the passing of 20 individuals, including Stephen Thomas Sr., Michael Lee Hare Jr., Reverend Robert J. Cropick, and others. A moment of silence was observed. - Congratulatory Resolutions: Honored individuals and organizations, including the Sally Bration 2026, Reverend Dr. Rebecca Stitt, the Daz Band, Collinwood High School alumni (100th anniversary), Greater Cleveland Works, and several retirements and anniversaries. - First Reading Emergency Ordinances (Referred): Over 30 ordinances were introduced and referred for administrative and committee review, covering airport contracts, water system equipment, appropriations, food shop license fees, the PASS program, grants for public safety radio, tobacco prevention, and various bond issuances. - First Reading Emergency Ordinances (Passed): The following ordinances were passed on final passage after a motion to suspend the rules: - Ordinance 893-2026 (American Heart Association Heart Walk permit) - Ordinance 899-2026 (Walter Collins Veterans Home Project) - Ordinance 900-2026 (Lincoln Park Mural Restoration) - Ordinance 908-2026 (East 105th Safety and Security Program) - Ordinance 925-2026 (Bright Winter Festival 2027) - Ordinance 938-2026 (amending community violence intervention initiative) - Ordinance 939-2026 (replacing Department of Community Development with Department of Development) - Ordinance 940-2026 (down payment assistance program amendment) - Ordinance 941-2026 (TIF agreement with Library Lofts LLC) – Passed 11-2 - Ordinance 942-2026 (salary classification amendments) - Ordinance 946-2026 (passenger boarding bridges at airport) - Ordinance 948-2026 (neighborhood equity funds transfer) - Ordinance 949-2026 (admissions tax exemption amendment) - All other first reading ordinances passed 13-0. - First Reading Emergency Resolutions: Adopted 13-0, including objections to liquor permits (Resolutions 890, 896, 901, 951, 952, 953, 1015), withdrawal of objections (891, 895), support for brownfield remediation grants (892, 953), opposition to historic preservation rule changes (954), honoring TV 20 (955), urging a grocery access meeting (957), and supporting Cleveland Public Library workers (975). - Second Reading Emergency Ordinances: Passed on final passage after a motion to suspend the rules: - Ordinance 552-2026 (transfer of parcels for parks and facilities) - Ordinance 615-2026 (East Side TIF District) – Passed 11-2 - Ordinance 693-2026 (TIF with East Ninth Scarlet LLC) – Passed 11-2 - Ordinance 744-2026 (Siemens building automation contract) - Ordinance 746-2026 (BioWatch grant) - Ordinance 747-2026 (name change of Scranton Road to Eagle Avenue) - Ordinance 749-2026 (moral claims payments) - Ordinance 759-2026 (alley vacation) - Ordinance 760-2026 (alley vacation) - Ordinance 761-2026 (street vacation) - Ordinance 762-2026 (street vacation) - Ordinance 763-2026 (housing financial assistance amendment) - Ordinance 764-2026 (sale of city property to FOP Lodge 8) - Ordinance 766-2026 (encroachment permit for UC City Center) - Ordinance 767-2026 (encroachment permit for Cleveland Public Theater) - Ordinance 768-2026 (encroachment permit for Cleveland Clinic pedestrian bridge) - Ordinance 770-2026 (Norfolk Southern railroad bridge improvements) - Ordinance 878-2026 (American Legal Publishing contract) - All but 615 and 693 passed 13-0. - Legislation to be Tabled: Ordinance 658-2026 (Community Police Commission grant agreements) and Ordinance 692-2026 (urban forestry climbing safety training) were tabled unanimously. Discussion Items - Councilman Starr's Miscellaneous Remarks: Councilman Starr spoke on two resolutions introduced that day: - Resolution 957-2026: Urging a coordinated downtown and citywide food access and grocery stability meeting. He outlined a three-part strategy: establishing a $10–15 million grocery store access fund, creating a grocery development fast track, and issuing a grocery store operator RFP. He emphasized that grocery access is a public health, economic development, and quality of life issue, and called for proactive measures rather than reactive subsidies. - Resolution 956-2026: Addressing mail access for seniors in high-rise buildings. He noted that many seniors lack transportation to mail bills and proposed working with the USPS to install secure outgoing mail slots in senior buildings, supporting an age-friendly mail access initiative. Key Outcomes - Votes: Ordinance 941-2026 passed 11-2; Ordinance 615-2026 passed 11-2; Ordinance 693-2026 passed 11-2; all other ordinances and resolutions passed 13-0. - Tabling: Two ordinances (658-2026 and 692-2026) were tabled unanimously. - Next Meeting: The next regular council meeting will be held on Monday, September 14, 2026. - Announcements: Councilwoman House Jones announced a meeting of the Cleveland Commission on Black Women and Girls on August 27, 2026, at 5 PM at City Hall. Councilwoman Hudson announced the Southeast Asian Festival at Lower Edgewater on August 22-23, 2026. Councilwoman Gray announced a City Club event at Shaker Square on August 27, 2026, featuring a panel on revitalization.

The Committee of the Whole convened on August 19, 2026, at approximately 4:45 PM to consider multiple ordinances, including cleanup legislation for development departments, a major PACE program overhaul, a land bank parcel transfer, and the establishment of a property tax increment financing (TIFF) district on the east side. Discussions focused on streamlining processes, maintaining council oversight, and the balance between public investment and private incentives. Consent Calendar - Ordinance 939-2026 (emergency): Amended CRA residential tax abatement program to replace the Department of Community Development with the Department of Development. Approved without opposition. - Ordinance 940-2026 (emergency): Amended down payment assistance and construction gap funding program to add the Department of Development. Approved after a brief clarification that it uses bond funding (not ARPA). - Ordinance 552-2026 (as amended): Authorized transfer of 100 land bank parcels (34 for public utilities removed per Councilman Jones) to city ownership for parks, recreation, and public safety. Approved after assurances that the Parks Department can maintain the parcels (35 parks, 3 rec centers, Fire Station 26). - Ordinance 763-2026 (emergency): Amended housing assistance contracts to reflect Woodhill Phase 4 unit count change (from 139 units, no additional city funds). Approved. - Ordinance 878-2026 (emergency): Authorized a five-year online code publishing contract with American Legal Publishing (first year $11,795). Approved. Discussion Items - Ordinance 947-2026 – PACE Program Administrative Approval - Proposal to move project-level PACE approval from council legislation to administrative approval by the Development Director, reducing timeline from 66 days to 21 days. Annual council authorization still required for special assessments. - Councilwoman Santana offered an amendment requiring a support letter from the ward council member. Councilwoman House Jones argued such letters are redundant when legislation is required. Councilman Harsh requested language specifying that council disapproval would reject a project, citing Section 144A.02C which says director’s approval constitutes legislative approval. - After extensive discussion, Santana withdrew her amendment. The ordinance was moved to introduction only, with plans to amend in committee to clarify council authority (e.g., “with the approval of the council member”). Director Bordeaux Small stated the intent is to obtain council support letters. - Ordinance 615-2026 – East Side TIFF District - Established a 30-year non-school TIFF district covering Huff, Central, and St. Clair Superior (1,585 acres, 50% vacant, 44% tax-exempt). Tax increment from new development to fund public infrastructure (roads, water, parks). - An amendment to add standard school compensation agreement language was introduced and passed. The legislation explicitly states it is a non-school TIFF (CMSD retains all revenue). - Councilmembers Casey, Polensek, and Shaw raised concerns about future project-specific TIFFs within the district, potential displacement of long-term residents, and the lack of a broader east side strategy. Chief McNair and Director Bordeaux Small emphasized that the TIFF captures new value for public good, that anti-displacement programs are being considered, and that any project-specific TIFF would require council approval and a “but for” analysis. - Councilman Harsh strongly supported the TIFF as a tool to address declining property values and attract investment. Councilman Shaw opposed, arguing it subsidizes corporations and does not directly help residents. - The ordinance was approved as amended. - Tree Maintenance on Land Bank Lots - Councilman Polensek requested written protocol from the administration on handling dead/dangerous trees on land bank lots adjacent to private property. Administration agreed to provide the protocol and consider improvements. Council President Griffin suggested a September/October operations hearing to address such issues. - Housing Plan 2030 Report Card - Councilman Shaw noted that the city’s Housing Plan 2030 required an annual report card on housing production and affordability since 2022, which had not been produced. Director Bordeaux Small indicated the Department of Development can track outcomes from city subsidies and will work to provide the data. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 939-2026 approved. - Ordinance 940-2026 approved. - Ordinance 947-2026 moved to introduction only; further amendments to be considered in DPS committee. - Ordinance 552-2026 approved as amended. - Ordinance 615-2026 approved as amended (non-school TIFF district). - Ordinance 763-2026 approved. - Ordinance 878-2026 approved. - Administration to provide written protocol for tree maintenance on land bank lots. - Administration to explore producing the Housing Plan 2030 annual report card. - Committee of the Whole adjourned to reconvene at 3:45 PM in the caucus room.

The meeting covered multiple agenda items including tax increment financing (TIF) agreements, capital projects, salary adjustments, and a moral claim. The most discussed item was the Project Scarlet development (East Ninth Street), which sparked debate on affordable housing payments, living wage guarantees, and impacts on public libraries. Several ordinances were passed or moved forward to the full council. Consent Calendar - Ordinance 764-2026: Authorized the sale of a vacant parcel at West 44th and Train Avenue to FOP Lodge 8 for $2,100. Approved. - Ordinance 744-2026: Authorized a requirement contract with Siemens for building automation at the airport. Approved. - Ordinance 746-2026: Authorized acceptance of the BioWatch grant and amended to require notice to council for cooperative purchases. Approved as amended. - Ordinance 944-2026: Authorized acceptance of a $230,000 ADAMHS grant for specialized court dockets. Advanced to full council. - Ordinance 945-2026: Approved the report of the Assessment Equalization Board for the Superior Arts Improvement District. Approved. - Ordinance 747-2026: Renamed a portion of Scranton Road to Eagle Avenue. Approved. - Ordinance 759-2026: Vacated unnamed alley south of Train Avenue for CMSD. Approved. - Ordinance 760-2026: Vacated unnamed alley south of Abbey Avenue. Approved. - Ordinance 761-2026: Vacated portion of East 81st Street for Cleveland Gear expansion. Approved. - Ordinance 762-2026: Vacated portion of Mount Carmel Road for CMHA project. Approved. - Ordinance 767-2026: Issued encroachment permit to Cleveland Public Theater for a blade sign. Approved. - Ordinance 768-2026: Issued encroachment permit for Cleveland Clinic overhead pedestrian bridge. Approved. - Ordinance 770-2026: Consented to Norfolk Southern replacement of Superior Avenue railroad bridge at no cost to the city. Approved. Discussion Items Project Scarlet – Ordinance 693-2026 TIF Agreement - The developer (Green Harvest Capital/Spark GHC) proposed a $130 million mixed-use project: 171 market-rate apartments and 121 Marriott Tribute hotel rooms at 260 East Ninth Street. Requested a 30-year TIF (non-school) with estimated $16.5 million in TIF payments, $27 million to CMSD, and 95 jobs with $3.8M annual payroll. - Councilmember Casey raised concerns about the developer paying $850,000 in lieu of affordable housing units, calling it "modern-day redlining." The developer stated all units are market rate due to business decisions and that the TIF is critical for lender approval. - Councilmember Shaw questioned the two-year living wage guarantee ($19/hour for hotel staff) versus the 30-year TIF, noting no enforcement mechanism after two years. The developer stated wages are expected to remain above living wage. - Councilmember Shaw also requested information on TIF impacts on non-school entities (libraries) and moved to include library funding, but the motion was declined by the Chair as late. - Councilmember Starr defended the project, noting the developer followed the existing ordinance (482-2022) which allows payment in lieu. He emphasized the project's community benefits: 10 nearby resident hires, $100,000 community equity fund, and workforce development. - Council President Griffin noted downtown has 33+ buildings in distress and that without this project, no tax increment would be generated for any public entity. The TIF will start after a 15-year abatement, totaling 30 years. Circle Square TIF Amendment – Ordinance 941-2026 - Requested removal of the 2052 expiration date to allow future phases (hotel, residential, retail) to have a full 30-year TIF. Estimated $1.75 million additional TIF payments per phase. Project team noted existing community benefits and partnership with city. Advanced to full council. Moral Claim – Ordinance 749-2026 - Approved $500 to a resident for driveway damage caused by tree roots from a vacant lot. Several councilmembers expressed concerns about city liability and consistency, with Councilmember Conwell noting past denials for tree damage. Discussion emphasized the need for better communication with ward councilmembers. Cleveland Thrive Budget Amendment – Ordinance 938-2026 - Moved unspent funds from personnel, travel, and supplies to sub-awards for training violence interrupters. Approved despite concerns from Safety and Workforce chairs about lack of prior consultation. The Chair requested the director meet with those chairs before final passage. Salary Adjustments – Ordinances 942 and 943-2026 - Ordinance 942 adjusted salary for Arborist 3 per Local 860 MOU. Councilmember Starr noted it should have gone through the Workforce Committee. Approved with understanding of future coordination. - Ordinance 943 adjusted pay bands for chief clerk, removed personnel analyst, and created public records analyst position. Approved. Key Outcomes - Project Scarlet TIF (693-2026): Approved by committee, will go to full council as amended. The payment-in-lieu of affordable housing fund now has approximately $950,000 (including $240,000 from University East project). The administration will provide data on all projects using option three (fee in lieu). - Circle Square TIF amendment (941-2026): Approved and moved to full council. - Moral claim (749-2026): Approved with direction to improve council member notification. - Biowatch grant amendment (746-2026): Passed with amendment requiring notice to council of cooperative purchases. - Norfolk Southern bridge replacement (770-2026): Approved. Councilmember Hudson noted ongoing concerns with other railroad bridges and urged continued engagement. - Several capital projects ordinances: All approved and/or moved to full council.

The Cleveland City Council convened on July 15, 2026, to act on a wide range of emergency ordinances and resolutions. The council approved a moratorium on data center permits, authorized a contract for automated license plate readers despite significant opposition, and passed numerous other measures including tax increment financing agreements, public works contracts, and liquor permit actions. The meeting also included the reading of condolence and congratulatory resolutions, the swearing-in of new appointments, and announcements recognizing residents and council member birthdays. Consent Calendar - Routine approvals and unanimous actions included the adoption of a cooperative purchasing agreement for Samsung VXT displays, multiple IT procurement notices, appointments to boards such as the Steel Yard Commons TIF Advisory Board and the Cleveland Urban Forestry Commission, and oaths of office for several assistant directors and community relations board members. - Condolence resolutions were read for over 30 individuals, including Arthur A. Beasley Jr. (father of Councilmember Tiffany Beasley) and Father Bob Cropak, with a moment of silence observed. - Congratulatory resolutions recognized various community achievements, including the 100th birthday of Anna Leggan, the 20th anniversary of the Downtown Cleveland Clean and Safe Program, and others. - All first-reading emergency ordinances and resolutions were adopted, with the exception of Ordinance 757-2026 (collective bargaining agreement with IATSE) which passed 14-1; all others received 15-0 votes. Discussion Items - Ordinance 556-2026 (Data Center Moratorium): Declared a moratorium on the review and issuance of zoning permits, certificates of occupancy, and other permits for data centers. Passed 14-1. - Ordinance 683-2026 (Flock Safety Automatic License Plate Readers): Authorized a contract with Flock Group for license plate reader technology. Several council members expressed opposition: Councilmembers Starr, Shaw, Santana, Harsh, House Jones, and Davis all requested to be recorded as no votes. The ordinance passed 9-6. - Ordinance 664-2026 (I-X Center Settlement Agreement): Authorized a first amendment to a settlement agreement between Cleveland and Brook Park relating to the I-X Center and Emerald Park JEDZ. Councilwoman House Jones voted no. Passed 12-3. - Ordinance 686-2026 (Property Acquisition for TIF – East Ninth Scarlet LLC): Authorized property acquisition and reconveyance for tax increment financing. Councilman Starr voted no. Passed 13-2. - Ordinance 695-2026 (TIF Agreement for Heller Keller Cone Project – RJL 2230): Authorized a TIF agreement for the Heller Keller Cone Project. Councilman Starr voted no. Passed 13-2. - Ordinance 696-2026 (TIF Agreement for Heller Keller Cone Project – 2202 Superior): Another TIF agreement for the same project. Councilman Starr voted no. Passed 13-2. - Ordinance 651-2026 (Software-Related Purchases Amendment): Amended codified ordinances relating to software purchases. Passed 14-1. - Ordinance 666-2026 (City Hall and Public Auditorium Improvements): Authorized design and construction contracts for improvements. Passed 14-1. - Ordinance 757-2026 (Collective Bargaining Agreement with IATSE): Approved the collective bargaining agreement with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees. Passed 14-1. - Resolution 883-2026 (Opposing Ohio House Bill 492): Expressed opposition to enacted HB 492, citing concerns about civil liberties and racial equity. Adopted unanimously (15-0). - Other Second-Reading Ordinances: All other second-reading emergency ordinances, including those related to public utilities, water main renewals, street lighting, and the Oakwood Pump Station, were adopted unanimously (15-0). Key Outcomes - Data Center Moratorium: Passed (14-1). - Flock Safety License Plate Reader Contract: Passed (9-6), with Councilmembers Starr, Shaw, Santana, Harsh, House Jones, and Davis voting no. - I-X Center Settlement Amendment: Passed (12-3), with Councilwoman House Jones voting no. - TIF Agreements for Heller Keller Cone Project: Passed (13-2) on both ordinances, with Councilman Starr voting no. - First-Reading Emergency Ordinances and Resolutions: All but one (757-2026) passed 15-0; 757-2026 passed 14-1. - All Second-Reading Emergency Resolutions: Passed unanimously (15-0). - Liquor Permit Actions: Several objections were withdrawn or new objections filed, all passed as part of the consent agenda. - Appointments and Oaths: Multiple appointments to boards and oaths of office were administered. Announcements & Recognitions - Councilwoman Deborah Gray's birthday was acknowledged, along with her twin sister Laura Gray. - Councilwoman Nikki Hudson introduced Ward 11 resident Giovanni Reyes from Greenery's Lawn Care. - Councilman Starr introduced Ward 8 resident Gregory Parker III, who shadowed him and was recognized as a young leader.

The Committee of Finance, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion convened on July 15, 2026, to consider a packed agenda including a controversial six-month extension of the Flock Safety automated license plate reader contract, a resolution to begin eminent domain for a new fire station, a moratorium on data centers, a settlement with Brook Park over the IX Center, and ADA improvements to City Hall. The meeting lasted several hours with extensive debate, especially on the Flock Safety and IX Center items. Discussion Items Bedrock Entertainment Amphitheater (Ordinance 662-2026) - A proposal to add a 62,200-seat riverfront amphitheater (401 Stone's Levee) to an existing tax increment finance (TIF) district. The project is expected to create 60 new full-time equivalent jobs with $3.1 million annual payroll. The 30-year TIF value is estimated at just under $10 million, with $16 million in benefits to CMSD and a net increase of $18.3 million in city and CMSD revenues. The ordinance authorized the mayor to acquire and reconvey the property for the chain of title. The committee approved the measure. Oracle Customer Care and Billing System (Ordinance 586-2026) - The administration reported that negotiations with Oracle for a master service agreement failed over issues of indemnification, exclusivity, and data ownership. The amendment allows the city to enter into requirement contracts for individual services. Approved. Net Metering and Interconnection (Ordinances 587-2026 & 588-2026) - Amendments to codified ordinances to address billing and reliability issues from distributed energy resources. The goal is to continue supporting renewable generation while protecting other customers from cost shifts. Approved. Other Public Utilities Items (Ordinances 596-2026, 598-2026, 599-2026, 600-2026, 601-2026, 602-2026, 612-2026, 621-2026, 625-2026) - A series of routine contracts and amendments for utility locating services, Oracle hosting, laboratory equipment, LED street light management, water pump station construction, corrosion control, smart photocells, interconnection process definitions, and water main repair contracts. All approved. Flock Safety Automated License Plate Readers (Ordinance 683-2026) - This was the most debated item. The administration requested a one-year extension to the Flock Safety contract, which had expired June 29, 2026. The committee amended the ordinance to a six-month extension (through December 29, 2026) with strict guardrails: (1) Cleveland's data is removed from the national lookup system, (2) filters block searches for immigration status and reproductive health, (3) local fusion center access is to be cut off, (4) monthly audit reports to council, and (5) penalties for violations. The Cleveland Police Department presented data that 25 of 53 homicides this year involved ALPR technology. Public safety director stated the city has 3,400 cameras but only 100 Flock cameras. Council members expressed concerns about data privacy, potential ICE access, and trust in the company. Several council members spoke against, citing a 3% crime reduction rate and fears of federal misuse. The committee voted to recommend passage (voice vote, with some no votes). Fire Station 23 – Eminent Domain (Resolution 457-2026) - A resolution of intent to appropriate property at 1002 Madison Avenue for a new fire station. The current station is inadequate with health hazards. The city has offered $1,025,000 (amended from $635,000) but the owner wants $1,730,000 based on a disputed appraisal. The administration is still negotiating. The committee approved the resolution, with the council president stating he will not move to the final appropriation step unless good-faith negotiations are documented. Data Center Moratorium (Ordinance 556-2026) - A three-month moratorium (with possible extension) on permitting principal-use standalone data centers, to allow the city to develop zoning regulations and understand impacts on utilities and neighborhoods. The amendment clarifies that the moratorium targets large-scale facilities, not server rooms. The committee approved. IX Center/Brook Park Settlement (Ordinance 664-2026) - A settlement to end decades-old tax-sharing agreements with Brook Park over 240 acres near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. The city will pay Brook Park $650,000 per year for 33 years plus a $2 million upfront payment, removing Brook Park's perpetual tax sharing rights. The city will regain all property and income tax revenues from the IX Center and surrounding lands. The administration argued the current lease with the operator (IRG/ICP) is unfavorable and that the settlement allows for future development. Some council members expressed concerns about the loss of trade shows and the potential for backdoor deals. The committee approved (with council members Polensek and House Jones voting no). City Hall ADA Improvements (Ordinance 666-2026) - A $5.9 million project to create an ADA-accessible entrance on the west side of City Hall and move the Department of Parks and Recreation to Public Auditorium. The original scope included a lobby and coffee shop, but those were removed after council objections. The project is now focused solely on ADA compliance. Several council members supported it, citing the difficulty people with disabilities face entering City Hall. The committee approved. IT Software Purchasing (Ordinance 651-2026) - An amendment to the codified ordinance to require council approval for software contracts over $250,000 (previously exempted). For contracts under $250,000, the administration must provide notice before exercising renewals. The change was prompted by concerns that the administration was bypassing council on IT purchases like ShotSpotter and Flock. The committee approved. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 662-2026 (Amphitheater TIF): Approved. - Ordinances 586-2026, 587-2026, 588-2026, 596-2026, 598-2026, 599-2026, 600-2026, 601-2026, 602-2026, 612-2026, 621-2026, 625-2026: All approved. - Ordinance 683-2026 (Flock Safety): Approved as amended (6-month extension with guardrails). - Resolution 457-2026 (Fire station eminent domain): Approved. - Ordinance 556-2026 (Data center moratorium): Approved. - Ordinance 664-2026 (IX Center/Brook Park): Approved, with no votes from Polensek and House Jones. - Ordinance 666-2026 (City Hall ADA): Approved. - Ordinance 651-2026 (IT software purchasing): Approved. - All other ordinances and resolutions on the agenda were approved or recommended for passage by the full council.