Public Meetings - Cleveland Heights, Ohio

The Cleveland Heights City Council convened on Monday, April 20, 2026 at 7:36 PM. All members were present. The meeting included a student report, presentations on immigration legal services, proclamations, reports on infrastructure and demolitions, legislative actions, and public comments. Student Report Bailey Evans, a ninth grader at Heights High and member of the Superintendent’s Student Cadre, reported on recent school activities. Athletic achievements included the indoor track team’s state meet placements (4x200 boys 2nd place, 4x400 boys 6th, 400m boys 6th, 3200m girls 7th), two girls wrestling state placers (Tamaya Bowie 6th, Chelsea Gibson 8th), and the boys basketball team winning a district final over St. Ignatius. Upcoming events included the No Hate Tour (BMX assembly), a Holocaust course trip to Washington D.C., OST testing (April 9/10), the Creative Heights Art Show (April 14 – May 8), the High Tide Drama Club’s production of As You Like It (April 16–18), and spring concerts (April 30, May 1). Presentations on Immigration Legal Services Representatives from Legal Aid of Cleveland and Catholic Charities addressed the council. - Legal Aid of Cleveland (Lisa Polowinski, Corey Lee Drazda): Described their mission of securing justice for low-income individuals and their focus on civil immigration cases for victims of crime. They are currently at capacity, not accepting new general cases; each of the four immigration attorneys manages 60–75 clients. They confirmed they serve detainees at the Geauga County Jail. - Catholic Charities (Alison Brown): The Associate Director of Immigration Legal Services outlined their focus on children (unaccompanied minors, children in foster care due to parent detention) and refugees (green cards, citizenship). She warned against immigration scams. Their intake number is 216-939-3769, and they expressed interest in hosting brief advice clinics in Cleveland Heights. Proclamations and Honors Lutheran East High School Basketball Team: The council issued a proclamation recognizing the team’s legacy of sustained excellence, noting Coach Sam Liggins’ leadership (9 consecutive regional and 11 consecutive district championships). Individual player awards highlighted included Dylan Ziegler (Division 5 Northeast Player of the Year), Chris Hill, Devontae Perkins, Ty Harrison, and freshman Bryce Irby. The team thanked the council for the recognition. Communications from the Mayor Mayor Petris led a moment of silence for a student who passed away during an athletics practice. He announced progress on road repairs, crediting the council for doubling the resurfacing budget to $5.1 million. Pothole crews have been increased from one to two full-time crews, with a third unionized contractor crew starting Wednesday. He promoted community events: a screening of the Greenprint documentary (April 21, Noble Library) and an Arbor Day ceremony (April 24, Cumberland Park). City Administrator’s Report Michael Reese provided updates on administrative operations and the Hillside Dairy Demolition Project (Mayfield/Noble intersection). The council passed a motion to bid the project. The tentative timeline includes opening bids on May 7, contract finalization in June, and abatement/demolition/securitization from June through August. A budget adjustment will be required. Legislation - Adopted: - Ord. 078-2026 (codified ordinance updates) - Res. 079-2026 (ODOT road salt cooperative purchasing) - Res. 074-2026 (ADA bleachers at Forest Hill Baseball Complex) - Res. 075-2026 (landscaping services for 2026) - Resolutions 085-093 (Consent Agenda): Recognitions for Bike Month, Municipal Clerks Week, Air Quality Awareness Week, Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, Mental Health Awareness Month, Jewish American Heritage Month, Military Appreciation Month, National Preservation Month, and School Bus Driver Appreciation Day. - First Readings (no vote): - Res. 081-2026 (housing rehabilitation/lead abatement) - Ord. 082-2026 (lease at 1807 Coventry Road) - Res. 083-2026 ($7,500 contribution to Heights Music Hop) - Res. 084-2026 ($2,500 contribution to Heights Tiger 5K and Fund Run) Committee Reports Council members announced upcoming committee meetings: - Municipal Services (May 11), Climate and Environmental Sustainability (April 21). - Planning and Development (April 28). ADU meeting postponed from May 5 (Election Day), new date TBD. - Finance, Public Safety, and Health (May 27, times tentative). - Housing and Building (May 11, short-term rentals, code study). - Council workshop reconvening on April 28 for rules and procedures. Public Comments Four residents addressed the council on non-agenda items: - Gail Bromley (Coventry Road): Expressed deep concern over the Shaker Lakes project. Noted a petition requesting a pause garnered over 500 signatures. She stated the community was shocked to learn 2,000 trees will be cut down, as reported at the sewer district board meeting, and called for collaborative discussion. - Jason Smith (Northway Road, Cedar Taylor District): Voiced strong opposition to Ordinance 75-2022 (prohibiting conversion therapy). Argued the ordinance attacks religious counseling and prayer. Contested the evidence that sexual orientation is unchangeable and that conversion therapy poses health risks, asserting the LGBTQ lifestyle itself has inherent risks. Questioned the need for the ordinance in a city he described as a haven for the LGBTQ community and criticized its sponsors. Urged the council to repeal the ordinance. - Christopher Wood (Edge Hill Road): Criticized the city and school board regarding the Hebrew Academy property on Blanche Avenue. Highlighted property appraisal discrepancies (valued at $1,000 by the auditor while selling for approximately $100,000 per lot). Argued the city and school board are derelict in not collecting back taxes, as the lots are not used for an educational purpose. Stated the development will increase taxes on existing residents. - Edgar Mitchell: Thanked the Home Repair Resource Center for assistance and offered condolences regarding the student who passed away. Key Outcomes - Council approved bidding for the Hillside Dairy demolition project and expanded road repair crews. - Several pieces of legislation were passed regarding codified updates, salt purchasing, bleachers, landscaping, and a slate of proclamations. - First readings were held for housing, lease, and community event funding legislation. - Council announced a public hearing on Ranked Choice Voting (April 29) and a meeting on the new Culver’s restaurant (May 20).

The Cleveland Heights City Council met on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 (the meeting began at 7:50 PM on March 16 and continued into the early hours of March 17). The meeting covered a wide range of topics including student achievements, city updates, legislative actions, and public comments on surveillance, immigration, community events, and more. Key actions included approval of an ordinance establishing the Cumberland Pool Facility Task Force, passage of multiple resolutions, and a statement from the police chief regarding a February 28 traffic stop incident. Consent Calendar - Resolution 061-2026 (proclaiming April 6–10, 2026 as National Community Development Week) – passed. - Resolution 062-2026 (joining with HUD in observation of April 2026 as Fair Housing Month) – passed. - Resolution 063-2026 (proclaiming April 2026 as National Poetry Month) – passed. Public Comments & Testimony - Emmanuel Gutierrez (student representative from Heights High): Reported on athletic achievements (indoor track, wrestling, swim and dive), art awards, career tech honors, SAT testing, parent-teacher conferences, and upcoming college events. He noted that 14 Heights High students were inducted into the National Technical Honor Society on February 26, and that the vocal music department's women's choir and a cappella choir both qualified for state competition on March 14. - Zenobia Sheets (BIPOC Affinity Council): Raised questions about transparency in the CDBG Annual Action Plan, asking for breakdowns of youth services funding, housing rehabilitation parcel information, commercial district revitalization business allocations, and clarification on the Hebrew Academy sewer project. She expressed a desire to ensure all children in the community benefit from youth services, not just private school students. - Stacey Ferguson (Tremont, Cleveland Heights): Expressed concerns about the planning of multicultural events (Black History program, Pride, Juneteenth), stating that the recent Black History program lacked meaningful input from residents and local vendors. She called for collaboration and timely communication. - Sean Herman: Spoke against the use of Flock cameras, citing instances of misuse in other jurisdictions (East Cleveland, Atlanta, Kansas, etc.) and data breaches. He urged council to reconsider the contract. - Barbara Susnowski (Northampton Road): Asked about maintenance of 74 flower pots in the Noble neighborhood (previously done by Deluxe landscape, but poorly maintained last year) and complained about a condemned apartment building at 2646 Noble Road that has been an eyesore for years. She requested action on both. - Marlene Goldheimer: Supported the police chief's statement but advocated for clear legislation to prevent cooperation with ICE, suggesting redirecting Flock camera funds to immigrant legal services. She urged passing legislation to ensure local police don't cooperate with ICE and reviewing immigration policies. - Sonia Charles (Erie View): Asked council to fulfill a promise to put ranked-choice voting on the November ballot, noting that the Charter Review Committee vetted it and provided ballot language. - Danielle Benham (Woodbridge): Raised two issues: lack of snow removal enforcement on sidewalks (citing Toledo's ordinance with fines) and the unsightly condition of 2646 Noble Road. - Christopher Wood: Opposed surveillance cameras (including Flock), arguing that they do not reduce crime and that the root causes of crime (inequality, poverty, racism) should be addressed instead. He also called for free Palestine. - Lou Radovoyovich: Thanked the city for the YouTube channel and requested that all meetings of committees and commissions that deal with real estate, zoning, development, or tax incentives be recorded and posted on YouTube for transparency. - John Western (Rexwood): Opposed surveillance cameras and automated license plate readers, drawing parallels to East Germany's Stasi. He argued such systems undermine trust and privacy. - Bill Brummel (Middlehurst Road): Supported the police chief's statement on ICE and expressed concern that future pressure from the federal government could degrade the police department's integrity. - Quinton Yoder (from South Euclid, representing Cleveland Heights for Immigrant Rights): Criticized the police chief's account of the February 28 incident, arguing that the evidence suggests cooperation with ICE. He urged council to listen to residents of color and to investigate the matter. Discussion Items - Mayor Petris's Communications: Reported on meetings with state legislators regarding capital funding for Cumberland Pool, announced the first director of the new Department of Human Resources (Dee Weber), the creation of a Cumberland Task Force (applications due March 18), a $300,000+ agreement to support the Noble Business District, and confirmation of a parade for Layla Edwards later this year. - City Administrator Michael Reese: Reported on individual meetings with council members, continuing to build relationships, meeting with First Call regarding the city's benefit program, coordinating health insurance renewal, working on vehicle use policies, and preparing for next steps on the US EPA consent decree. - Police Chief's Statement on February 28 Incident: Addressed an incident that occurred on Saturday, February 28, 2026. He stated that after reviewing video and reports, he determined officers' actions were lawful. He clarified there was no pre-planned coordination with ICE; the traffic stop was based on a citizen complaint about erratic driving. The driver of the dark SUV wearing tactical attire was not identified as belonging to any agency. The stop was brief and the driver was released. He reiterated that the department does not enforce civil immigration laws, does not ask about immigration status, and does not hold people on ICE detainers alone. He recommended continuing existing policies. - Legislative Items: - Ordinance 054-2026 (Cumberland Pool Facility Task Force) – amended to increase membership from 9 to 13 (received 26-27 applications). Passed. - Resolution 055-2026 (calling for state legislation to allow community energy pilot program) – passed. - Ordinance 060-2026 (salary schedules and benefits for city employees) – passed with roll call; Councilmember Cohen recused. - Resolution 064-2026 (agreement with Cuyahoga Soil and Water and NEORSD for NPDES compliance) – passed. - Four first readings (056, 057, 058, 059) – moved forward. - Second readings: Resolution 052-2026 (playground at Denison Park) – passed. Resolution 031-2026 (lease at recreation center, rate changed from $200 to $500/month) – passed. Ordinance 051-2026 (T-Mobile tower lease amendment) – passed with roll call (Councilmembers Cobb and Larson recused). - Committee Reports: - Community Relations and Recreation Committee (Councilmember Foy): Meeting March 23 at 7 PM, update on parks master plan. - Finance Committee (Councilmember Foy): Meeting March 23 at 5 PM, discuss audits, debt service, fund balances, and possible moratorium on funding requests until bond rating. - Municipal Services and Environmental Sustainability Committee (Councilmember Cobb): Meeting March 9, reviewed EPA consent decree progress; next meeting April 13 at 7 PM. - Administrative Services Committee: Meeting March 23 at 5:30 PM to interview Cumberland Task Force applicants, with aim of making appointments at next council meeting. - Planning and Development Committee (Councilmember Cohen): March 9 meeting on accessory dwelling units (600+ survey responses, 25,000 video views); community town hall planned; next committee meeting moved to 4th Tuesday (April 28 at 5:30 PM). Also announced listening session on Blanch Road extension project on March 19 at 6:30 PM. - Housing Committee (Councilmember Stone): Meeting April 13 at 5 PM, review of housing code and short-term rental legislation. - Councilmember Cohen's Comments: Circulated draft legislation to establish guardrails for automated license plate reader (ALPR) technology, including limits on data retention, use only for legitimate law enforcement, and prohibition on sharing for civil immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant. Aims to pass as emergency measure on April 6. (Note: This item was discussed during comments but not formally voted on.) - Councilmember Foy's Comments: Congratulated Heights High athletic teams (boys basketball district champions, girls wrestling, indoor track state competitors). Clarified that a Board of Zoning Appeals case regarding a cannabis dispensary on Lee Road (seeking a variance for a drive-through window) would be heard on March 18 at 7 PM; community members can attend or submit written comments. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 054-2026 establishing the Cumberland Pool Facility Task Force passed (amended to allow up to 13 members). - Resolution 055-2026 calling for state community energy pilot program passed. - Ordinance 060-2026 (salary schedules and benefits) passed. - Resolution 064-2026 (NPDES compliance agreement) passed. - Resolution 052-2026 (Denison Park playground installation) passed. - Resolution 031-2026 (recreation center lease increase from $200 to $500/month) passed. - Ordinance 051-2026 (T-Mobile tower lease amendment) passed. - Consent agenda (three resolutions on National Community Development Week, Fair Housing Month, National Poetry Month) passed. - Permission granted to bid project 2602 (pavement striping) for 2026-2028. - Applications for the Cumberland Task Force due by March 18; appointments to be made at the April council meeting. - Councilmember Cohen will introduce ALPR guardrail legislation for possible emergency passage on April 6. - The police department's existing policies on immigration and traffic stops were affirmed; no new legislation was introduced on that matter at this meeting.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting occurred on March 3, 2026, but the provided metadata states March 4, 2026. This summary uses the latter date per instructions. The Cleveland Heights City Council met on March 4, 2026, at 7:39 PM. The meeting began with the ceremonial swearing-in of newly appointed Councilwoman Sarah Stone, followed by approval of minutes, mayoral communications, multiple legislative readings, public comments, and committee reports. Key topics included data privacy concerns around traffic analytics, a new municipal pool funding resolution, and public calls for greater racial equity in city leadership. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved without discussion or objection. Public Comments & Testimony - Agenda Item Public Comment: A resident (name not stated) expressed concerns about the Urban SDK geospatial AI contract, arguing it collects data from phones and cars and sets up infrastructure for future data use. She questioned why the city cannot pay residents instead of an outside organization and asked when the public can have a say in data collection. Council members responded that the tool has been used for years, data is aggregated and not personally identifiable, and the matter will be discussed further in the Public Safety and Health Committee in about two weeks. - General Public Comment (5 speakers): - Lee Barbie (1048 Rogue): Called for a charter review commission to evaluate moving from at-large to ward-based council representation, arguing that the current system dilutes accountability. - Miriam Hosh Shafian (Hampshire Road): Raised concerns about racial representation, noting that 42% of the city is Black but only one Black person serves on council. She also questioned the lack of transparency in recent appointments and asked for an update on parks and recreation commission appointments. - Amy Eugene (Scarborough Road): Cited a Tufts University study showing that white, wealthy elected officials are less responsive to minorities and lower-income residents. She urged council to ensure policies represent all citizens, given that Cleveland Heights is 54% non-white. - Lou Radovievich (Middlehurst Road): Thanked Councilman DeWitt Foy for his advocacy for diverse representation. Criticized council for not supporting former Councilwoman Zenobia Sheets and for missing an opportunity to correct racial imbalance. Welcomed Councilwoman Stone but urged independent thinking. - Unnamed speaker: Paid tribute to Reverend Jesse Jackson and called for honoring Olympic gold medalist Layla Edwards with a parade. Discussion Items - Swearing-In of Councilwoman Sarah Stone: Council President Kuda administered the oath. Stone thanked council and pledged to represent all of Cleveland Heights, emphasizing listening and responsiveness. - Mayor's Communications (Mayor Petris): Recognized Chuck Williams for his Black History Month recognition. Reported on elevator issues at Cedar Lee parking garage (needs full modernization, $175,000 not budgeted) and community center. Met with state representative for capital budget. Announced a breakthrough on pedestrian safety road project reviews. Reported pothole repairs and efforts to support the Cleveland International Film Festival (April 9-18). - First Readings (adopted unanimously unless noted): - Resolution 041-2026: Roof replacement for Alma Theater at Kane Park (leaking, emergency measure). - Resolution 042-2026: Purchase of a Freightliner dump truck for Public Works. - Resolution 043-2026: Purchase of a Ford F-350 truck for Streets Division. - Resolution 044-2026: Purchase of an International Hot Box Combo truck for Streets Division. - Resolution 045-2026: Grant agreement with NE Ohio Regional Sewer District for Overlook Road area SSO-46 control project. - Resolution 046-2026: Application for Safe Routes to Schools grant for a bicycle boulevard from Canterbury Elementary to Roxboro Schools. Councilwoman Cohen abstained, stating she received the document that day and could not review it. Per city ordinance, abstention counts as an affirmative vote. - Resolution 047-2026: Declaration of intent to finance a new outdoor municipal pool and pursue funding. The mayor noted Cumberland Pool is 100 years old and polluting the watershed; a lobbyist (Retzel) has been hired, and a capital request will be submitted to the state on March 12. - Resolution 048-2026: Appointment of Samiya Azazuddin to Transportation and Mobility Committee. - Resolution 049-2026: Reappointment of six members to Transportation and Mobility Committee. - Resolution 050-2026: Resolution opposing Ohio House Bills 2642 and 281 and Senate Bill 172 (requiring local law enforcement to assist ICE). Council members emphasized home rule and protecting immigrant residents. - Resolution 053-2026: Approval of D. Weber as Director of Human Resources. Mayor noted a confirmation hearing was held; Weber is an experienced HR professional. - Resolution 052-2026 (first reading only, no vote): Authorizing playground installation at Denison Park. - Resolution 051-2026 (first reading only, no vote): Amendment to T-Mobile tower lease at 14200 Superior Road. - Second Readings: - Resolution 037-2026: Purchase of a claw truck for refuse division (approved). - Resolution 038-2026: Agreement with Urban SDK for geospatial AI and roadway data. Council members assured residents that data is aggregated and not personally identifiable; the tool has been used for years. Councilwoman Cohen (a cybersecurity and privacy lawyer) supported the contract and suggested a broader data policy. Councilman Posh noted the safety committee will continue discussions. Approved. Key Outcomes - Votes: All first-reading resolutions listed above passed unanimously except Resolution 046-2026 (Cohen abstained, legally counted as affirmative). Second-reading resolutions passed unanimously. - Appointments: Councilwoman Jessica Cohn and resident Daniel Waters were appointed to the Community Reinvestment Area Housing Council. - Committee Reports: - Planning and Development Committee (March 9, 5 PM): Agenda includes accessory dwelling units update, severance discussion, and zoning code review. - Community Relations and Recreation Committee (March 9, 6 PM): Discussion of youth scholarship fund and parks and rec topics. - Municipal Services and Environmental Sustainability Committee (March 9, 7 PM): Update on EPA consent decree for sewer infrastructure. - Climate Environmental Sustainability Citizen Committee (March 17, 4 PM). - Transportation Mobility Citizen Committee (March 25, 6:45 PM). - Councilmember Comments: - Vice President Larson noted March is Women's History Month (theme: leading the change) but no awards ceremony this year; plans to request a budget for 2027. - Councilman DeWitt Foy announced Cleveland Heights received Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community designation and challenged the city to aim for Silver or Gold. He also thanked residents for their engagement. - Councilman Cohen acknowledged the Jewish holiday of Purim and its significance. - President's Report: President Kuda thanked all attendees and adjourned the meeting at approximately 8:53 PM.

The Cleveland Heights City Council convened on February 2, 2026, to approve meeting minutes, address public communications, and handle key appointments. The meeting featured significant discussions regarding the appointment of a new City Administrator, the formation of the Arts Commission, and a contentious exchange between the Council and immigrant rights advocates concerning resource allocation and community safety. The Council also discussed state-level legislation impacting immigration enforcement and acknowledged the tireless work of public works during severe winter weather. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from October 20th, November 3rd, and November 17th, 2025, without amendment. - Unanimous approval of three resolutions reappointing or appointing members to the Climate and Environmental Sustainability Committee (Resolutions 024-2026, 025-2026) and the Citizens Advisory Committee (Resolution 026-2026). - Unanimous approval of Resolution 027-2026 appointing 11 members to the newly revitalized Arts Commission. - Unanimous approval of Resolution 029-2026 authorizing an agreement with Hall Public Safety Utifiers for police department equipment. - Unanimous roll-call vote (all 'Aye') on Resolution 030-2026 confirming the mayor's appointment of the new City Administrator. - Unanimous approval of Resolution 021-2026 authorizing the city's participation in the NOPEC Green Community Choice Program starting June 2026. - First readings granted for Resolutions 028-2026 (Lead Abatement), 031-2026 (Recreation Center Lease), and 032-2026 (Heights Schools Foundation contribution), and Resolution 028 was deferred for further review. Public Comments & Testimony - Judith Ryder (Arts Commissioner): Expressed full support for the relevance of arts in building community security and connection. Stated pride in joining the new administration as a member of the Arts Commission. - Edgar Mitchell: Thanked the Council and Mayor for addressing a drain issue on Neil Road and for maintaining community peace amidst national security concerns. - Carly Whitaker (Cleveland Heights for Immigrant Rights): Expressed gratitude for Councilwoman Cohen's initiative to secure legal clinics for the immigrant community. Highlighted collaboration with the "See You Next Tuesday" arts collective for a recent vigil and announced an upcoming ICE defense training event. - Vice President Larson: Expressing personal hurt and disappointment, stated opposition to the characterization of Council members as "fascist collaborators" and emphasized the need for unity rather than division in the face of external threats. - Councilman DeWitt Foy: Raised concern regarding four state bills (HB 26, SB 172, HB 281, HB 42) that expand ICE collaboration. Expressed strong opposition to these bills, stating they risk escalating tensions and potential loss of life, urging residents to contact state representatives. Discussion Items - Arts Commission Formation: Council members discussed the logistics of convening the newly appointed 11-member Arts Commission. The President noted confusion regarding the committee's authority (whether it is a council or mayoral committee), clarifying it advises both bodies. Staff were tasked with scheduling the first meeting. - Lead Abatement Project (Resolution 028): The Mayor and Council agreed to defer the vote on Resolution 028 regarding the Green Home Solutions agreement. The Mayor expressed a preference to "dive deeper" following questions raised in the Committee of the Whole to ensure the project's scope is fully understood before authorizing the contractor. - City Administrator Appointment: Mayor Petras detailed the hiring process, noting over 50 applications and 13 interviews. He highlighted the appointee's 20 years of experience in Columbus, including nine years as Chief of Staff. Council members praised the efficiency of filling this key position within 30 days. - Immigration and Legal Aid Debate: Following public comments, Councilmember Cohen and Mayor Petras discussed the balance between direct funding for legal counsel (as requested by advocates) and alternative partnerships. Cohen confirmed a partnership with the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association to provide at least three bilingual legal clinics. Councilmember Cohen and Vice President Larson expressed their personal investment in immigrant rights while distancing the Council from the inflammatory "fascist" label used by some advocates. The Mayor noted that while the Council supports the cause, no legislation has been sponsored to fund specific legal services, as the legislative process requires sponsorship. Key Outcomes - Appointments Approved: Resolution 027-2026 officially established the new Arts Commission with 11 members. Resolutions 024, 025, and 026 appointed members to the Climate and Environmental Sustainability Committee and Citizens Advisory Committee. - City Administrator Confirmed: The Council unanimously confirmed the mayor's appointment of the new City Administrator via roll call vote. - Program Authorization: Resolution 021-2026 authorized the city to join the NOPEC Green Community Choice Program. - Action Deferral: Resolution 028-2026 authorizing the lead abatement agreement with Green Home Solutions LLC was tabled for further review. - Community Initiative: The Council and Mayor confirmed the arrangement of three (3) bilingual legal clinics for the immigrant community, with implementation expected by the end of February, secured through the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association.

The Cleveland Heights City Council convened for a meeting focused on approving routine municipal resolutions, addressing a significant emergency regarding snow removal capabilities, and listening to extensive public testimony primarily advocating for the funding of legal representation for immigrants facing deportation. The atmosphere was marked by strong community advocacy for immigrant rights and a collaborative but cautious administrative response to both the immediate snow crisis and long-term policy proposals. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from January 7th and January 12th. - Adoption of Resolution 022-2026 recognizing February 2026 as Black History Month. - Adoption of Resolution 023-2026 proclaiming February 14th, 2026, as National Donor Day. - Suspension of rules to adopt the consensus agenda items, which passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Jamie Hickner (Cleveland Heights for Immigrant Rights): Expressed full support for funding legal counsel and legal clinics, urging the council to prioritize immigrant due process after a recent ICE raid resulted in six workers leaving the community and 600+ residents at risk. - Shay Sing (Union Member/Resident): Expressed full support for right-to-counsel funding, stating that discrimination based on race, garb, or accent renders residents at risk and that immigrants in unions have been protected, implying support for expanding legal protections to all. - David Barenson (Resident): Expressed full support for Cleveland Heights taking a lead role in supporting immigrant rights, drawing on personal family history of escaping Nazi Germany and pogroms. - Gary Benjamin (AMI): Expressed full support for funding legal representation to help neighbors maintain legal status, specifically noting the loss of right to post bond for those under federal programs and the need for habeas corpus petitions. - Melody J. Hart (Resident): Expressed full support for the proposal to fund legal clinics via a partnership with non-profits (Catholic Charities, Legal Aid, Jewish Family Service) rather than an outside for-profit firm, citing a successful case where a lawyer secured a client's release. - Barbara Aguilar (Resident): Expressed full support for legal counsel, stating that families separated by deportation would be 10 times more likely to remain if they had representation, and urging the council to act against family destruction. - Angela Manella (Cleveland Heights for Immigrant Rights): Expressed full support for funding legal representation, asserting that immigrants with counsel are 10 times more likely to win cases and framing deportation without due process as human trafficking. - Mike Corridani (Resident/Organizer): Expressed full support for the proposal while clarifying it is an “access to justice” program, not a “sanctuary city” policy, and noting zero overlap with enforcement restrictions. - Anastasia Kirillyuken (Resident): Expressed full support for funding legal representation to protect the safety of immigrants and her own family. - John Mark Wisnewski (Resident): Expressed full support for Cleveland Heights to support and protect the immigrant community. - Carly Whitaker (Resident/Activist): Expressed full support for the legal counsel proposal and noted that the word “immigrant” has appeared zero times on the council agenda since the raid. - Marcy Cannard (Resident): Expressed strong support, stating that until officials take tangible action, they are not anti-racist. - Alan Fetterman (Resident): Expressed full support for the proposal, arguing that Cleveland Heights should stand for values beyond immediate needs and that the community is actively backing this measure. - Raul Montejo (Cleveland DSA): Expressed full support and called for immediate action, stating that freezing in fear allows the continuation of terror and that residents must organize to build power. - Lynn Tremanté (Ohio Immigrant Alliance): Expressed full support for both direct representation and legal clinics, highlighting the benefit of portable legal question-and-answer sessions for the community. - Harley Rubin (Resident): Expressed full support for the actionable policy of funding legal funds, contrasting it with previous symbolic resolutions that lacked enforceability. - Quentin Yoder (Cleveland DSA): Expressed full support for the proposal, rejecting the claim that legal representation should be limited only to those with legal status and arguing for universal due process rights. - Natalie Davis (Attorney/Resident): Expressed full support for immediate action on legal counsel, emphasizing the difficulty of navigating immigration courts without representation. - Taylor (Resident): Expressed concern regarding speeding on Selwyn Road and supported the request for speed bumps to protect children playing on the street. - Marty Galfand (Attorney/Resident): Expressed full support for funding the program as a sovereign responsibility of the city to protect rights under the 10th Amendment. - Graham Ball (Cleveland DSA): Expressed full support and requested a specific timeline for the implementation, citing recent ICE surges in Columbus as evidence of an imminent threat. - Grace Heffernan (NE Ohio Worker Center): Expressed full support for portable legal representation, sharing the story of an undocumented worker who self-deported due to inability to access legal counsel in detention. Discussion Items - Snow Removal: Mayor Petris acknowledged public dissatisfaction, confirmed the receipt of 150 tons of salt delivered to the city, and announced ongoing meetings with Public Works and Parks to review staffing, shifts, equipment repairs, and device calibration. He expressed support for structural improvements but requested patience from the public, noting he would ride on trucks Wednesday night to observe operations. Councilwoman Cohen expressed full support for the Mayor's collaborative approach and optimism for improvements. - Right to Counsel Proposal: Public speakers overwhelmingly advocated for funding legal clinics and representation. Vice President Larson offered full support for donations to the Immigrant Defense Fund. Councilwoman Cohen expressed full support for the cause but stated the council is awaiting further information and suggested the group consider immediate funding opportunities with non-profits or foundations, noting the slow pace of public sector policy. Councilman Posh expressed full support for the concept but emphasized the complexity of the city's legal authority and the need for thoughtful policy-making. Councilman Cobb expressed full support for the immigrants' plight and thanked the Mayor for his engagement on snow removal. - Committee Appointments: Discussion regarding the Planning Commission and Citizens Advisory Committee vacancies. Councilman Cobb expressed strong appreciation for the candidates selected for the Planning Commission (Schneer Kushner and Matthew Carey). Key Outcomes - Snow Removal: No formal vote taken; the Mayor committed to presenting a specific list of improvements to council and the public after ongoing internal reviews. - Appointments (Unanimous Support): - Resolution 009-2026: Confirmed Helen Hertz as a member of the Community Improvement Corporation. - Resolution 010-2026: Confirmed Linda Strievski as a member of the Community Improvement Corporation. - Resolution 011-2026: Appointed Schneer Kushner as a member of the Planning Commission. - Resolution 012-2026: Appointed Matthew Carey as a member of the Planning Commission. - Resolution 013-2026: Reappointed 22 members to the Citizens Advisory Committee. - Contracts and Grants: - Resolution 014, 015, 016: Authorized agreements with Green Home Solutions LLC, SOSIC Painting and Remodeling LLC, and American Builders and Applicators LLC for lead abatement using Lead Safe Ohio grant funds. - Resolution 019: Authorized a grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for Kane Park renovations. - Resolution 020: Authorized a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to purchase four 2026 Ford Utility Hybrid Police Interceptors. - Resolution 021: Authorized participation in the NOPEC Green Community Choice Program for electric aggregation starting June 2026. - Dispute Note: The transcript reflects a discrepancy in dates and times. The header states 2026-01-21, but the Mayor states the meeting is January 20th at 8:40. Council comments refer to a meeting on the 20th, while the transcript header says 21st. The summary reflects the content of the meeting described (Jan 20th) in the header discrepancy note. - Next Steps: The Mayor will present the specific list of snow removal improvements to council and the public after completing current reviews. The council is awaiting further information regarding the legal counsel proposal before definitive policy action is taken.

The City Council of Cleveland Heights convened in a special meeting on January 12, 2026, at 7:45 PM to address several urgent personnel confirmations and vehicle procurement resolutions. The meeting also featured a discussion on establishing a future leadership retreat and training session. Mayor Petris introduced multiple resolutions, all of which passed unanimously with minimal debate after confirming that the charter necessitates immediate council confirmation for continuing appointments. Consent Calendar This section of the meeting covered the unanimous approval of the following resolutions: - Resolution 002-2026 (First Reading): Authorized the Mayor to purchase five 2026 Ford Utility Hybrid Police Interceptors from KG Norton LLC (DBA Ganley Ford Inc.) for the Police Department. - Resolution 003-2026 (First Reading): Authorized the purchase of two 2026 Ford Utility Hybrid Interceptors from KG Norton LLC for the Fire Department. - Resolution 005-2026 (First Reading): Confirmed the Mayor's appointment of Colette Klinkscale as Director of Public Works. - Resolution 006-2026 (First Reading): Confirmed the Mayor's reappointment of Eric Zamp as Director of Planning and Development. - Resolution 007-2026 (First Reading): Confirmed the Mayor's reappointment of William R. Hanna as Director of Law. - Resolution 004-2026 (First Reading): Authorized the Mayor to contract with Farnham Equipment Company via the Source Well Cooperative Purchasing Program for new seating and construction services in the Community Center's main gymnasium. Public Comments & Testimony - Councilman Posh: Expressed a strong position for organizing a leadership council retreat and training session. Councilman Posh noted that previous attempts at an "expectations meeting" failed due to internal strife and highlighted the need for the new administration to establish a vision. He advocated for a multi-hour session (5-6 hours) in March to discuss legislative agendas and goals. - Council Members (General): Expressed full support for Councilman Posh's proposal. Specific requests included integrating training on the "Open Meetings Act" and "Sunshine Laws." Council members discussed potential venues (e.g., Community Center) and timings (avoiding the end of March due to Passover), with the Law Director noting that such retreats must be recorded public meetings rather than executive session sessions due to a repealed ordinance. Discussion Items - Personnel Confirmations: Council member addressed the necessity of these confirmations due to charter changes, stating that hearings were not required as the council already knew the individuals. The Council welcomed William R. Hanna back upon confirmation. - Retreat Logistics: Discussion focused on the format of the proposed retreat. Council members debated the venue, noting a previous ordinance allowing executive sessions for retreats had been repealed. The Law Director clarified that the session must be a recorded meeting. Suggestions included a Saturday morning slot (rejected by the council) or a Friday/Sunday slot at the Community Center. - Training Requirements: The Law Director detailed the training landscape, including the Ohio Municipal League (OML) seminar in March and the new charter's eight-hour training requirement for new members. It was noted that while existing members have decades of experience, a refresher course would be beneficial for public transparency. Key Outcomes - Unanimous Approval: All five resolutions (002, 003, 004, 005, 006, and 007) passed with a vote of "Aye" from all present members. - Retreat Initiation: The Council leadership received a directive to prioritize scheduling a retreat and training session, tentatively aiming for the beginning or middle of March. - Next Steps: Councilwoman Addy (implied as the clerk or a specific member responsible for logistics) is tasked with sending out dates for a Doodle poll. Leadership will discuss the agenda and training options. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 PM.