Public Meetings - Lakewood, Ohio

The Public Works & Sustainability Committee of Lakewood City Council met on January 15, 2026, at 4:45 PM (UTC) to approve prior meeting minutes and to consider Resolution 2026-01, a submerged lands lease for erosion control improvements at 1040 Forest Cliff Drive. All three committee members were present: Chair Bryan Evans, Tom Bullock, and Angelina Hamilton Steiner. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the October 13, 2025 Public Works & Sustainability Committee meeting. Motion carried with aye votes from all members. Discussion Items - Resolution 2026-01 – Submerged Lands Lease (1040 Forest Cliff Drive): The resolution authorizes a lease of submerged lands in Lake Erie to permit the property owner (Susan H. Krebs) to construct a stone revetment and a crib pier for shoreline erosion control. City administration (Director Gordon, Mr. Papke, and Law Director Various) explained that the property contains an existing city stormwater outfall (L4 outfall) for which the city had no recorded easement. Working with ODNR, the property owner, and the law department, the city secured a permanent storm sewer easement covering both upland and submerged areas (Parcel 1 on the lease exhibit) to guarantee future access for maintenance. This is the first submerged lands lease involving a city outfall on private property. Committee members discussed the scope of the easement, the condition of the outfall (no near-term maintenance expected), and noted that the city has approximately 58 similar outfall pipes along the bluff, many without recorded easements. Councilwoman Steiner commended the administration for educating the public and committee members on the process. Key Outcomes - Favorable Referral: The committee voted unanimously (3 ayes) to recommend Resolution 2026-01 favorably to the full City Council. The motion was made by Chair Evans, seconded, and carried with aye votes from all present. - The lease and easement are considered a model for addressing similar situations in the future.

The Lakewood Public Art Advisory Board met on January 14, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the City Hall Auditorium. Members present: Mr. Obar, Mrs. Santas, Mr. Frederick. Absent: Ms. Rosie (sick), Ms. Ryan (school engagement). Angie, Director of Planning and Development, was also present. The board discussed updates to the Public Art Master Plan, the 2026 CDBG Art Project, and concepts for the 2026 Spectacular Vernacular project, including maintenance and the Birds of Birdtown initiative. Elections for chair and vice chair were postponed to the April meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The meeting minutes from October 8, 2025, were approved unanimously via motion and second. Discussion Items - Public Art Master Plan Updates: The board reported that a school engagement session at the high school is scheduled for late January 2026 to gather student input. The first stakeholder meeting will be held on February 17, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Madison Park Library. The master plan consultants are expected to present to the board in April 2026. - 2026 CDBG Art Project: The board reviewed a new allocation of $42,500 from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for streetscape improvements. This will fund: - Five additional bus shelter wraps: Three in the Gold Coast area, one at Detroit & Herd, and one at the Rocky River loop (Detroit & Ben’s). Artists from the 2023-24 cycle are returning: Beth (Functini Land), Joseph Richmond, and Snack Break Studio (Kim Lavery). Beth is unable to create new designs and will reuse existing works with color variation. After discussion on fairness, the board decided Beth will produce one shelter (with RTA color adjustment), Joseph Richmond and Snack Break Studio will each produce two shelters. The artists will be paid the same rate as 2023 ($800 per shelter). - 30 additional traffic signal box wraps: These will be placed in CDBG-qualifying areas (Detroit corridor and Gold Coast). The board selected six artists from the previous pool of 11 candidates, including Debbie Clapper, Sequoia Bostik, and Tao N. (others not specified in the transcript). Each artist will complete five wraps. The board emphasized that the program has received no negative public feedback and is popular. - 2026 Spectacular Vernacular Project Concepts: - Maintenance: Two existing murals need attention. The Aladdin’s mural (artist Stephanie Crosson) will be reproduced on aluminum panels mounted to brick (to avoid moisture issues), with building owner and artist approval. The Superscript mural (artist Sarah Bicknoll) is deteriorating; the artist and building owner requested a new design. The board decided to issue a new RFP for this site, open to all artists, as a new project rather than maintenance. The RFP will allow for painted or aluminum installations. - Birds of Birdtown: The board is developing a project to install 20 bird-shaped signs (e.g., lark, plover, robin) atop existing street signs in the Birdtown neighborhood, plus a historic district marker. Fabrication will be powder-coated aluminum, with costs estimated around $10,000. The board discussed adding color to the birds for visibility and moving to a 2D silhouette design. The project will not use a traditional RFP but will seek quotes from local fabricators. - Elections Postponed: The board voted to postpone the election of chair and vice chair until the April meeting due to the absence of two members. Key Outcomes - Approved October 2025 meeting minutes. - Scheduled school engagement (late Jan) and stakeholder meeting (Feb 17) for the Public Art Master Plan. - Finalized artist allocation for CDBG bus shelters: Beth (1 shelter, color variation), Joseph Richmond (2), Snack Break Studio (2). - Selected six artists for 30 traffic signal box wraps (including Debbie Clapper, Sequoia Bostik, Tao N.). - Authorized maintenance of Aladdin’s mural via aluminum panels. - Approved issuing a new RFP for the Superscript mural site. - Advanced the Birds of Birdtown project with a $10,000 budget, to be fabricated locally. - Postponed board officer elections to April 2026 meeting.

The Committee of the Whole met on January 12, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Lakewood City Hall Auditorium to interview four candidates for the vacant Ward 4 council seat, vacated by Cindy Marx. The committee also approved minutes from the December 5, 2025 meeting. After interviews and an executive session, the committee voted to appoint Matthew Bixenstine to the seat. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the December 5, 2025 meeting without a reading. Discussion Items Candidate Interviews: Alann "Pixi" Mallo - Opening Statement: Mallo, a transgender woman, U.S. Navy veteran, and Senior Operations Analyst at PNC, expressed deep love for Lakewood as the first place she felt safe and welcomed. She highlighted her experience in logistics, operations, and asset management, and her desire to advocate for those without a voice, especially the LGBTQ+ community following the closure of Studio West. - Q&A Responses: - Engagement: Mallo has volunteered with Hunger Network Food Rescue and helped with Lakewood Soccer. She has not been in Lakewood long but is committed to staying. - Two-Year Goals: Mallo identified improving communication on speed bump requests, adding cooling stations and shade at Madison Park food festivals, and working to keep Studio West in the LGBTQ+ community. She also proposed a social media series to highlight city resources and a scavenger hunt to increase engagement. - Ward 4 Needs: She noted small businesses in Ward 4 receive less spotlight and suggested social media features and smaller festivals to highlight them. She also advocated for protecting trees during trimming and for tree canopy preservation. - Personal Motivation: Mallo has a history of public service and volunteerism, including creating a school recycling program and helping organize protests. She sees the council seat as a natural next step. - Managing Diversity: Mallo emphasized listening first, being kind but firm, and developing action plans together. She cited her experience communicating across language barriers overseas. - Work Style: She described herself as a collaborative consensus-builder who listens to all sides and proposes options to move forward. - Closing: Mallo reiterated her passion for advocating for LGBTQ+ people, veterans, and affordable housing, and stated she would be interested in serving on an environmental board if not appointed. Candidate Interview: Jason W. Frederick - Opening Statement: Frederick, a graphic designer and member of multiple Lakewood boards (LCRAC, Public Art Advisory Board, Anti-Racism Task Force), expressed gratitude for the opportunity and shared his volunteer work, including the successful traffic box art project. - Q&A Responses: - Engagement: Frederick has served on the Community Relations Advisory Commission (LCRAC), Public Art Advisory Board (vice-chair), Anti-Racism Task Force, and graduated from the Citizens Police Academy. He also volunteers with youth sports. - Two-Year Goals: He proposed listening sessions or town halls to bridge divides in Ward 4, using common interests like dogs (advocating for a new dog park) or shared frustrations (e.g., construction noise) to bring people together. - Work Style: Frederick described himself as ego-free, focused on getting the job done by listening and compromising. He values big-picture thinking. - Managing Division: He acknowledged the challenge of polarization but stressed the importance of meeting anger with understanding and love. He expressed strong support for LGBTQ+ rights and criticized efforts to limit gender-affirming care. - Personal Motivation: Frederick wants to serve as a voice for those who lack resources or time to advocate for themselves, citing his experience as a postal carrier seeing income inequality in Ward 4. - Neighborhood Needs: He suggested a youth center for tweens, possibly subsidized memberships at existing facilities, and advocated for municipal energy generation and municipal health insurance for taxpayers. - Closing: Frederick reiterated his commitment to public service and his gratitude for the city's police and fire response to a house fire. Candidate Interview: Sydney Lightner-Canaday - Opening Statement: Lightner-Canaday, a 25-year-old renter and legislative intern, shared her background in constituent casework and her belief in effective, accessible government. She stressed the importance of preparation, accountability, and respect. - Q&A Responses: - Engagement: She serves on the Lakewood Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) reviewing CDBG, HOME, and ESG funding, and has been politically active at the county and state levels. - Two-Year Goals: She proposed a "Ward 4 Walk Through" program to engage residents directly on needs and concerns. She identified housing stability and quality-of-life issues (noise, code enforcement) as key challenges. - Neighborhood Needs: Lightner-Canaday cited building code enforcement and a need for safe spaces, especially for marginalized groups. She emphasized building trust by explaining processes and showing results. - Personal Motivation: She sees herself as a representative of young renters and wants to ensure Lakewood remains a place where people can build their lives. She has long-term political aspirations. - Managing Diversity: She acknowledged that not all solutions fit all and stressed listening, empathy, and finding consensus that works for the whole community. - Work Style: Lightner-Canaday described herself as easygoing, a good listener, and focused on long-term thinking over short-term pressures. She values respectful disagreement. - Closing: She reiterated her commitment to listening, asking informed questions, and making decisions grounded in facts and community impact. Candidate Interview: Matthew Bixenstine - Opening Statement: Bixenstine, founder and president of Friends of Madison Park, and a former Marketing & Development Manager at LakewoodAlive, highlighted his extensive volunteer work including the Little Free Locker Room, community garden, block club, and tree giveaway program. He stated his priorities: representing Ward 4 residents, improving engagement, enhancing green spaces, prioritizing safe and affordable housing, and emphasizing pedestrian/bicyclist safety. - Q&A Responses: - Engagement: Bixenstine detailed his leadership of Friends of Madison Park, the Clarence Avenue Block Club, service on the Lakewood Tree Advisory & Education Board, Keep Lakewood Beautiful, Lakewood Soccer Association, Hike and Bike Program, and Harrison PTA. - Two-Year Goals: He identified increasing community engagement (reviving block club captain meetings, loosening block party permit rules) and pedestrian safety (improving Hawk signal signage, enforcing distracted driving laws) as achievable. He also noted specific Ward 4 issues: noise at Neograph, parking in Birdtown, the void left by Studio West, and nuisance motels in the Gold Coast. - Work Style: Bixenstine described himself as a team player who practices open, honest communication and respects disagreement. He cited his experience balancing competing interests in the Madison Park Master Plan. - Managing Diversity: He emphasized listening, empathy, and meeting people where they are. He gave examples of inclusive efforts: the Little Free Locker Room providing free sports equipment, a potluck block party with no fee, and a community garden free to all. - Personal Motivation: Bixenstine sees the role as a natural progression of his community work. He has no political aspirations beyond city council but wants to grow as a leader. - Neighborhood Needs: He discussed parking solutions in Birdtown, the need to engage Gold Coast apartment residents, and citywide priorities like tree canopy replenishment and small business support. He shared a story of community cooperation after a storm. - Closing: Bixenstine thanked the council, fellow applicants, and his wife, and stated he would remain involved regardless of the outcome. Key Outcomes - After executive session, Councilmember Vice President Baker moved to appoint Matthew Bixenstine to the Ward 4 seat. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. - The resolution (2025-77) will be amended with Bixenstine's name and referred to full council for adoption at the next regular meeting (likely Tuesday, January 20, 2026). - Council members encouraged the other candidates to remain engaged in the community and offered to help them find other opportunities for service.

The Board of Building Standards, Architectural Board of Review, and Sign Review Board met jointly on January 8, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium. The meeting covered roll call, approval of minutes, election of officers, old business, new business including sign review and architectural review, and a building standards appeal. Roll Call and Minutes Approval - Members present: Ms. Cohen Plessner, Mr. Aggerberry, Mr. Slaughterbeck. Mr. Stevenson was absent. - Minutes from the December 11, 2025 meeting were approved with a motion and second; one member abstained due to non-attendance. Public Comments & Testimony - 1114 Forest Road (new home): Three residents spoke in opposition, citing the proposed home's incompatibility with the historic Clifton Park neighborhood, concerns about scale, massing, and adverse effects on property values. One speaker noted the lot had been vacant for 60 years and was considered unbuildable. Another speaker, a sponsor of the National Register nomination for Clifton Park South Historic District, stated the proposal is dramatically incompatible. - 15501 Madison Avenue (Vital Pilates addition): Two nearby residents spoke about parking and traffic safety concerns, and requested better lighting fixtures that do not spill onto neighboring properties. - Other items: No public comment was offered for several sign review items or other dockets. Discussion Items - Old Business – Docket 12-114-25 (1114 Forest Rd): Applicant Jason Leone and builder Matt Bowen presented plans for a new single-family home on a corner lot. Board members requested additional context renderings, including views from both Forest Road and Clifton Boulevard, to evaluate scale, massing, and compatibility with the neighborhood. The board also asked for a landscape plan, a traditional brick chimney on the Clifton elevation, and more detail on the north elevation to address the secondary frontage. Public comments were heard. A motion to defer passed unanimously. - Old Business – Docket 12-108-25 (13318 Madison Ave): Applicant absent; window graphics already installed. Board approved the signage, noting 13.5 sq ft was acceptable for the small storefront, slightly over the 9 sq ft allowance. - Sign Review – Docket 01-01-26 (13523 Detroit Ave): Little Buckeye Learning Center proposed reusing an existing monument sign with new lenses, plus a bear logo and window graphic. Approved unanimously. - Sign Review – Docket 01-03-26 (1435 Warren Rd): CPR Ohio proposed channel letters on a raceway. Approved with condition that raceway be painted to match brick and that any window/door signage come back separately. - Sign Review – Docket 01-04-26 (14519 Madison Ave): Spin Bike Shop proposed neon window signs. Approved as presented. - Sign Review – Docket 01-05-26 (15640 Madison Ave): CB Photo proposed small window graphic. Approved (staff spoke on behalf of applicant). - Sign Review – Docket 01-09-26 (2007 Carabel Ave): Absolute Legends & Collectibles proposed window decals and superhero logos. Approved with condition that posters are not included. - Sign Review – Docket 01-10-26 (2035 Quail St): Birdtown Brewing proposed wall sign and a large painted mural on the rear parking lot. Board deferred, requesting a comprehensive sign package for the entire property, accurate mural dimensions, and context photos. - Sign Review – Docket 01-11-26 (13439 Detroit Ave): Forevergoldencle proposed window and neon signage (already installed). Approved despite board member noting asymmetrical layout. - Architectural Board of Review – Docket 01-06-26 (16806 Madison Ave): Cini proposed storefront paint (red door, black trim) and future neon sign. Approved with condition that sign be submitted separately. - Architectural Board of Review – Docket 01-07-26 (15501 Madison Ave): Vital Pilates & Wellness proposed a second-floor addition. Board requested accurate renderings, technical drawings, context elevations, material specs, a photometric plan for new lights, and a site plan showing sidewalks and adjacent buildings. Deferred. - Architectural Board of Review – Docket 01-08-26 (14819 Lake Ave): Applicants Jake Szaraz and Lizandra Gonzalez proposed a front porch addition. Board expressed general support but required technical drawings with dimensions, material labels, and a site plan showing alignment with neighboring porches. Deferred. - Architectural Board of Review – Docket 01-12-26 (17620 Riverside Dr): (Mentioned in agenda but not discussed in transcript? Possibly deferred or not reached.) - Building Standards Appeal – Docket (17620 Riverside Dr): Applicant (Daniel Margulies?) appealed a citation regarding exterior wall insulation. The addition was built with 2x4 walls (R-15 insulation) instead of the approved 2x6 walls (required R-20 or R-13+5). Board noted that the current R-15 meets the OHBA alternative path for new construction. A motion to approve the appeal passed (allowing the as-built condition). Key Outcomes - Election of Officers for 2026: Hannah Cohen Plessner was re-elected as Chair; Chris Eggerry was elected as Vice Chair. Motion passed unanimously. - Deferrals: - Docket 12-114-25 (1114 Forest Rd) - Docket 01-10-26 (2035 Quail St) – Birdtown Brewing - Docket 01-07-26 (15501 Madison Ave) – Vital Pilates - Docket 01-08-26 (14819 Lake Ave) – front porch addition - Approvals: All other dockets were approved as noted, with some conditions. - Meeting adjourned after the election. Note: The agenda listed a pre-review meeting as cancelled; the review meeting proceeded as scheduled.

Lakewood City Council held its regular meeting on January 5, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. Key actions included the election of Council President and Vice President, a report on the Ward 4 vacancy appointment process, discussion of the Administration's proposal to relocate City Hall to the historic Board of Education building, and the referral of several items to committees. Public comment raised concerns about snow removal and ranked choice voting. Consent Calendar - Reading and disposal of minutes of the December 15, 2025 regular meeting were approved without reading (motion passed unanimously). - Communication from Councilmember Kepple regarding recodification of ordinances was received and filed (motion passed). - Mayoral appointments to boards and commissions (Animal Safety & Welfare, Architectural Board of Review, Board of Zoning Appeals, Citizens Advisory Committee, Community Relations Advisory Commission) were received and filed (motion passed). - Mayoral reappointments (Loan Approval Board, Civil Service Commission, Citizens Advisory Committee) were received and filed (motion passed). - Mayoral appointments to the CASE Board (John Mitterholzer, Jeff McCourt, Kyle Robinson) were received and filed (motion passed). - December 2025 Finance Department vendor report (submitted pursuant to LCO 111.03) was received and filed (motion passed). Public Comments & Testimony - Robert Organ (address not stated, but recognized as a regular speaker) addressed snow removal in bike lanes and on sidewalks. He argued that the current ordinance, which places responsibility on homeowners and business owners, is ineffective, particularly for people with mobility issues. He requested a new ordinance or better enforcement, noting that the city provides free salt but sidewalks often remain uncleared even days after a storm. Council President Kepple acknowledged the issue, noted that the Building Department is enforcing existing rules for commercial properties, and encouraged residents to report violations and assist neighbors. - Chris Minder (1212 Hathaway Avenue) urged Council to act on the recommendations of the 2023 Charter Review Committee, specifically ranked choice voting. He noted that the budget season had ended and that deadlines for the November 2026 ballot are approaching (local issues by August 5, charter amendments by September 4). Council President Kepple confirmed the goal is to place charter amendments on the November general election ballot for maximum voter turnout. Discussion Items - Election of Council President: Councilmember Bullock nominated Sarah Kepple to serve as President of Council for the term. Kepple was elected by acclamation (voice vote). - Election of Vice President of Council: Council President Kepple nominated Kyle Baker for Vice President. Baker was elected by acclamation (voice vote). - Report from Committee of the Whole (January 5, 2026): Council President Kepple reported that the Committee met earlier that day to review the eight applications received for the vacant Ward 4 seat (created by the resignation of Cindy Marx effective December 31, 2025). After executive session, Council voted to invite four candidates—Jason Frederick, Matt Bixenstein, AJ Pixie Malo, and Sydney Light Leitner Canada—for live-streamed interviews to be held the week of January 12. Council will vote on the appointment at the following full Council meeting. The Committee also discussed the schedule for upcoming City Hall facility discussions. The report was received and filed (motion passed). - Communication from Councilmember Kepple regarding updated City Hall facilities schedule: Kepple distributed an amended schedule moving Bond Counsel’s presentation to January 26, 2026, with February 2 and February 9 reserved for additional dialogue. The administration’s plan to include $16.5 million in the 2026 Bond Anticipation Notes (BANS) for the Warren Road renovation was noted; Councilmember Bullock questioned the need to debt finance 2026 costs (estimated at $1.2–1.6 million for design) when traditional capital projects finance construction. The mayor clarified that the administration’s preferred timeline accelerates the project. The communication was referred to Committee of the Whole (motion passed). - Communication from Mayor Meghan George regarding relocation to 1470 Warren Road (old Board of Education building): The Mayor presented the Administration’s case, including a new cost analysis from Liberty Development (owner of the BOE) showing a BOE renovation cost of $16,250,700 (or $445/sq. ft.) versus the earlier WMF/PMC estimate of $24,152,848 ($662/sq. ft.). The total project (BOE renovation + City Hall renovation for police/justice center) is estimated at $31,818,797 under the Liberty proposal, compared to WMF/PMC’s $39,720,945. The Mayor cited benefits: right-sizing the police department, lower guaranteed costs, a one-stop customer service center, unified operations under one roof, flexibility for growth, transit-accessible downtown location (70% of Ohio’s 30 largest cities have downtown city halls), and adaptive reuse of a historic building. Councilmember Bullock asked whether the Administration would consider other options like expanding existing City Hall; the Mayor replied that the build-out option is not feasible and that the administration’s preference is the two-campus model. Vice President Baker requested further explanation of how the Liberty process eliminates the need for a criteria architect. The communication was referred to Committee of the Whole (motion passed). - Communication from Director Ernest Vargo regarding submerged lands lease at 1040 Forest Cliff Drive: The property owners seek a submerged lands lease to construct erosion control measures. The City’s Division of Engineering reviewed the matter; a permanent storm sewer easement has been recorded to protect a city outfall. Director Vargo noted the residents have been waiting and time is of the essence. After discussion, Council referred the communication to the Public Works and Sustainability Committee (motion passed) so that it can be reviewed and potentially acted upon at the next full Council meeting on January 20, 2026. - Resolution 2026-01 (submerged lands lease approval): The resolution was introduced to approve the use of submerged lands for erosion control at 1040 Forest Cliff Drive. It was referred to the Public Works and Sustainability Committee (motion passed), to be considered alongside the communication above. Key Outcomes - Elected Sarah Kepple as Council President and Kyle Baker as Vice President for the term. - Ward 4 vacancy process: Four candidates selected for interviews (week of January 12); appointment vote expected at the next regular meeting. - Resolution 2025-77 (appointing Ward 4 councilmember) was deferred. - Ordinance 01-2026 (re-codification of ordinances) was deferred. - City Hall relocation proposal and bond counsel schedule were referred to Committee of the Whole for continued discussion on January 26, February 2, and February 9, 2026. - Submerged lands lease (1040 Forest Cliff Drive) and accompanying resolution were referred to Public Works and Sustainability Committee, with the goal of action at the January 20, 2026 full Council meeting. - Public comment on snow removal and ranked choice voting was noted; Council President Kepple committed to working toward a November 2026 ballot measure for charter amendments and encouraged enforcement of existing sidewalk snow removal ordinances.

The Lakewood City Council Committee of the Whole met on January 5, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium. The meeting focused on approving previous minutes, filling the vacant Ward 4 council seat, and discussing the schedule for city hall space considerations. The council entered executive session to discuss the appointment and later selected four candidates for interviews. A brief discussion on the city hall renovation timeline and bond financing followed. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the December 5, 2025, Committee of the Whole meeting were approved unanimously without discussion. Discussion Items - Appointment to Ward 4 Seat (Resolution 2025-77): Council President Kepple noted that former Ward 4 Councilmember Cindy Marx resigned effective December 31, 2025. The council had issued a public call for applicants. After brief comments, the council voted unanimously to enter executive session to consider the appointment. Upon exiting executive session, Council President Kepple moved to schedule interviews with four candidates: Jason Frederick, Matt Vixenstein, AJ Pixie Mallow, and Sidney Lighter Canada. The motion passed unanimously. Council members expressed gratitude to all applicants, noting the community's strong engagement. - City Hall Space Considerations – Schedule and Timeline: Council President Kepple introduced an updated schedule for the city hall space discussions. The administration will present its case for using the Warren Road building on January 26, 2026, with bond council also presenting on debt capacity and proposed bond legislation. Two additional weeks (February 2 and 9) are reserved for further deliberation. The bond council has requested that bond legislation be passed by February 17, 2026, to secure a rating this year. Councilmember Bullock emphasized the need for a clear timeline and continued expert input from the council's advisor (PMC/Weber Murphy Fox). He questioned whether the February 17 deadline was inflexible and suggested that a smaller bond amount or deferring to 2027 might be possible. Vice President Baker noted that any option (e.g., Warren Road purchase, City Hall addition) requires a design phase, possibly costing $1–2 million in 2026, with major construction in 2027–2028. He stressed the importance of third-party verification of cost estimates, especially since Liberty (the seller of the Warren Road building) is also a consultant. Councilmember Evans agreed that the council's consultants should review any detailed proposal before decisions are made. Council President Kepple confirmed that the new Ward 4 council member would be seated before the January 26 presentations, and that consultants could be brought in during the subsequent weeks. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The minutes of the December 5, 2025, Committee of the Whole were approved. - Executive Session Held: Council entered executive session to discuss the appointment of a Ward 4 council member. - Candidate Interviews Scheduled: Four candidates were selected for interviews: Jason Frederick, Matt Vixenstein, AJ Pixie Mallow, and Sidney Lighter Canada. The Clerk of Council was directed to schedule 30-minute interviews. - City Hall Discussion: Council members identified key questions for the administration's January 26 presentation, including the basis of design, cost verification, and the flexibility of the February 17 bond deadline. The timeline allows for further deliberation and consultant input through February 9.

A three-member board (Michael Alexander, Gillian Bellino, Jeffrey Pickett) convened to consider three variance requests. The meeting began with roll call, a motion to excuse the absences of Matt Markling and Anthony Santiago, and approval of the November 20, 2025 minutes, all passed unanimously. The board reminded applicants that with only three members present, a unanimous vote was required for approval. Consent Calendar - Roll call: Michael Alexander, Gillian Bellino, Jeffrey Pickett present. Matt Markling and Anthony Santiago were excused unanimously. - Minutes of November 20, 2025 were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - 1321 Bunts Road: The homeowner spoke in support of the project, noting he had spoken to both neighbors who support it. He stated the addition would allow his family to stay in Lakewood and improve quality of life. No other public comments were received. - 2083 Lark: A neighbor submitted a written comment stating the fence looked very nice and expressing hope that garbage cans would be kept behind it and that landscaping might be added. No speakers appeared in person. - 1337 Edmole Avenue: No public comments were received. Discussion Items - 1321 Bunts Road – Variance for breezeway connecting garage to house: - Applicant Brian Linkeman (House to Home Cleveland) presented plans for a two-story addition (approx. 18x24 ft per floor), a new garage, and a covered breezeway/patio to connect them. The garage itself would not require a variance, but the breezeway and attached garage configuration required variances for reduced rear and side setbacks. - The board noted that without the breezeway, the garage would be detached and permitted; the breezeway made the garage attached, reducing the rear yard. The applicant argued the breezeway provided practical benefits (sheltered entry, outdoor living). - Administrative staff (Ms. Nocta) reported that the architectural board had approved the design, and that the average rear setback of 11 nearby corner lots was 48 ft. The proposed rear setback was 38 ft. She also noted that the initial lot coverage calculation error was corrected, and the primary lot coverage variance was no longer needed. - Board members expressed support, noting the breezeway was a reasonable connection and the neighbors were supportive. The board voted unanimously to approve variances 2 and 3 as proposed. - 2083 Lark – Fence variance: - Applicant Adrian Randini (fence contractor) requested a 6-foot-tall black aluminum fence to enclose a front yard area for a house set far back (78 ft from the right-of-way), leaving almost no rear yard. The fence would be located behind the front building line at 32 ft from the public right-of-way. - The house is one of only a handful in Lakewood with such a deep setback. The adjacent house has a similar living fence. - No board members had concerns; the fence was seen as a reasonable way to create usable private space. The board voted unanimously to approve the variance as proposed. - 1337 Edmole Avenue – Variance for new single-family dwelling with attached garage and fence: - Applicant Tim Bennett (Bennett Builders) proposed a new house with an attached garage to replace a vacant lot. The property is a corner lot with an existing driveway easement for the neighboring lot, reducing the usable rear yard. The variances requested were: (1) to allow a deeper rear yard (40 ft required, proposed 31.9 ft) to accommodate the attached garage, and (2) to allow a 6-foot privacy fence within 5 ft of the sidewalk on the corner side (instead of the required 5 ft setback for a full-height fence). - The board discussed the need for an 8-foot sight triangle at the driveway/sidewalk intersection; the motion was conditioned on compliance with that requirement. - One board member initially expressed concern about the massing of the garage but ultimately supported both variances, noting that detaching the garage would leave an awkward small gap. The fence was considered acceptable given the corner lot context. - The board voted unanimously to approve variance 1 as proposed and variance 2 conditionally (subject to sight triangle compliance). Key Outcomes - 1321 Bunts Road: Approved unanimously (3-0). Variances 2 and 3 granted as proposed. - 2083 Lark: Approved unanimously (3-0). Variance granted as proposed. - 1337 Edmole Avenue: Approved unanimously (3-0). Variance 1 granted as proposed; variance 2 granted conditionally based on the 8-foot site triangle at the driveway intersection. - The meeting was adjourned with a thank you to outgoing board member Michael Alexander for his service.

This summary reflects the Lakewood City Council meeting held December 16, 2025, per the supplied meeting timestamp; the printed agenda and transcript references carry the date December 15, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. The extended regular meeting included FY2025/FY2026 appropriations and contract-authority ordinances, ratification of 2026–2028 collective bargaining agreements, the Ward 4 vacancy process, City Hall space options, a liquor permit, and a farewell resolution for Ward 4 Councilmember Cindy Marx. Council also held a moment of silence for Nancy Fienn, a former Mayor's Office employee and Cove Community Center staff member. Consent Calendar The following routine/unanimous actions were disposed of without substantive debate (Council did not use a formal consent agenda): - Minutes of the December 1, 2025 regular meeting were approved without a reading. - Reports from the Committee of the Whole (December 5) and the Finance Committee (December 8 and December 15) were received and filed. - President Kepple's communication on the Ward 4 vacancy process, including qualifications and the January 2, 2026 application deadline, was received and filed. - President Kepple's City Hall space/timeline update was received and filed. - Animal Safety & Welfare Advisory Board reappointments — Teresa Schleicher, Lise Stevens, and Juleen Russell, with terms running January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2027 — were received and filed. - The Planning Department's acceptance of a $7,500 Healthy Lakewood Foundation Neighborhood Opportunity Grant for the 2026 Tree Giveaway (400 trees; 200 at spring and fall events) was received and filed. - The liquor permit notice for Couth Collective, 17106 Detroit Ave. (Ward 1), was filed without objection, with no statutory reason to object. Public Comments & Testimony - Barb Rhodes (1475 Grace Ave.) said it was frustrating to watch Council vote on amendments made in a committee that was still meeting at 7:30 without those amendments being described to the public. She asked Council to summarize late, unpublished committee amendments when moving to substitute. President Kepple acknowledged the feedback as good practice. - Jason Frederick (Alameda Ave.) praised Councilmember Cindy Marx's openness and responsiveness as Ward 4 representative, credited her with nominating him to the Public Art Advisory Board, and wished her well in her upcoming move to Shaker Heights. - Cindy Marx's fiancé Ken offered brief celebratory remarks and was welcomed by Council. Discussion Items - 2026–2028 union contracts: Council adopted substitute Resolution 2025-73 authorizing the Mayor to enter into, and ratifying, three-year agreements with 8 unions representing more than 450 City employees, effective January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2028. A committee amendment requires the administration to meet with Council before beginning 2029–2031 negotiations to discuss financial outlook, wage adjustments, and other significant factors. - FY2026 budget and reserves: Councilman Bullock reviewed the budget and cautioned about rising personnel costs. He cited General Fund reserve figures of $7.9 million (64.9 days/approximately $122,000 per day) in 2019, $9.1 million (75 days/about $121,000 per day) in 2020, and a proposed $10.8 million in 2026 covering only 61 days, at $175,683.79 per day. He said personnel costs total about $64 million and roughly 75% of the General Fund, with contracted increases of 3% in 2027 and 4% in 2028. - Composting initiative: Councilman Bullock proposed adding $50,000 to the FY2026 General Fund appropriation for a citywide composting pilot. A roll-call motion to amend Exhibit A passed 4-3 (Baker no, Bullock yes, Evans yes, Kepple no, Marx yes, Hamilton Steiner yes, Strebig no), but a follow-up discussion raised structural-balance and bond-rating concerns. Finance Director Mahoney and the Mayor explained the funds were already available from the economic development fund/encumbrances, and the Mayor said she would veto a structurally imbalanced budget. Council then rescinded the earlier amendment 7-0. Later, Council added a $50,000 composting initiative line to the Planning & Development service-contract list in Ordinance 36-2025, increasing that contracting authority from $6,750,000 to $6,800,000, and adopted the ordinance as amended. - City Hall space options: President Kepple summarized the Weber Murphy Fox/PMC conceptual estimates: $21,425,071 for City Hall renovation with small addition and annex renovation; $30,984,985 with a large addition; and $39,720,945 for Warren Road renovation plus City Hall renovation. The Administration proposed $1.5 million from the Land Acquisition Fund for the Warren Road purchase, $16.5 million in 2026 bond anticipation notes for renovation, and additional 2027/2028 amounts. The Finance Department requested BANS legislation by February 17, 2026. The timetable includes Ward 4 candidate interviews January 12, swearing-in January 20, a Bond Counsel presentation moved to January 26, and BANS readings through February 17. - Ward 4 vacancy: President Kepple's communication noted applications and letters of support are due January 2, 2026 at noon; a Committee of the Whole review is set for January 5. Applicants must have been Lakewood residents for at least one year, be registered voters, and live in Ward 4. Resolution 2025-77, which would appoint the yet-to-be-named Ward 4 member for the remainder of the term ending December 31, 2027, was referred to Committee of the Whole. - CHAT annual report: Assistant Planning Director Baas presented the Community Health Action Team's annual report (September 2024–December 2025). Council referred it to the Health and Human Services Committee. The report proposes transitioning several action areas to lead partner organizations while CHAT retains the Community Resource Guide and shifts to a coordination, identification, and advocacy role. - Farewell to Cindy Marx: Council adopted Resolution 2025-75 commending Marx for her public service, including her appointment to the Ward 4 seat in June 2022, election in 2023, and earlier at-large service from 2014–2017. Members praised her responsiveness, advocacy, and community engagement, and Mayor George presented a proclamation. Marx's resignation is effective December 31, 2025, and she is moving to Shaker Heights. - Honoring Trish Rooney: Council adopted Resolution 2025-76 recognizing Lakewood Community Services Center Executive Director Trish Rooney for 17 years of leadership. Members cited her work stabilizing LCSC, expanding the food pantry and pandemic home-delivery service, homeless-prevention assistance, and completing the move to the renovated former Youth Services building. Rooney was not present by the time the item was taken up; an e-comment from Human Services Director Barry was read. - Employee ordinances: Council adopted Ordinance 37-2025 (2026 pay plan for non-bargaining employees), Ordinance 38-2025 (accelerated vacation accrual, higher vacation maximums, paid Veterans Day, and increased sick-time conversion percentages), and Ordinance 29-2025 (updated petty cash and operational cash funds). Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolution 2025-73, Resolution 2025-75, Resolution 2025-76, and the amended FY2025/FY2026 budget and contract-authority package: Ordinances 31-2025, 32-2025, 33-2025, 34-2025, 35-2025, 36-2025, 37-2025, 38-2025, and 29-2025. - Referred Resolution 2025-77 (Ward 4 appointment) to Committee of the Whole. - Rescinded the 4-3 vote adding $50,000 to FY2026 appropriations by a 7-0 vote after determining the funds were already available; subsequently included the $50,000 composting initiative as a service-contract authorization in Ordinance 36-2025. - Filed the liquor permit without objection, received/filed routine communications and the grant notice, and referred the CHAT annual report to the Health and Human Services Committee.

This meeting of the Finance Committee was convened to consider the proposed 2026 comprehensive budget, related ordinances, and other fiscal matters. The committee heard presentations from the Mayor's Office and the City Council Clerk's office, discussed several substitute ordinances adjusting appropriations and contracting authority, and ultimately voted to favorably report out a package of budget ordinances to full Council. A discrepancy exists between the user-provided meeting date (December 12, 2025) and the transcript which repeatedly references "December 15th meeting"; this summary uses the provided date but notes the inconsistency. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (December 8, 2025): The committee unanimously approved the lengthy (40+ page) minutes of the previous Finance Committee meeting, with thanks to council staff for their detailed record. Discussion Items Petty Cash and Operating Fund Changes (Ordinance 29-2025) - Finance Director Mahoney outlined proposed amendments to Sections 129.53 and 129.54 of the Lakewood Codified Ordinances, adjusting petty cash and operational cash fund limits. Key changes: increasing the police drug purchase limit from $50 to $10,000 (due to inflation), removing petty cash from the Mayor's office (which uses finance department cash), and eliminating the Health Department fund (no longer needed). Council clarified that the listed amounts are maximum balances at any one time, not annual spending limits. Ordinance 29-2025 was approved without dissent. Mayor's Office Budget Presentation - Mayor Meghan George presented the 2026 budget for her office and the Division of Community Relations. Highlights: - Organizational chart; 5 full-time employees. - Budget largely in line with 2025, with nominal increases in salary, travel, communications, and decreases in professional services. - Division of Community Relations successful events: Concerts in the Park, Friday Night Flicks, Meet the Trucks, etc. - Social media follower growth: Facebook +8%, Instagram +25%; monthly e-newsletter now has 8,000+ subscribers; printed newsletter sent three times in 2025. - 2026 plans: expand wider audience for city messages, increase direct printed/electronic communications. - Council questions addressed the role of civil service (under Law, not Mayor's office) and block club communications. The Mayor noted the challenge of creating a separate block club newsletter but acknowledged the importance of localized emergency communication. City Council Office Budget Presentation - Council Clerk Bach presented the 2025 accomplishments and 2026 budget request for the Council office. Key points: - Major 2025 project: Office renovation (first comprehensive upgrade since 1990) – new furniture, conference room, staff workspace, and record storage. - Staffing: Transitioned from an intern to a permanent third staff member (deputy clerk position created). Three-person team now operational. - Records management: Through the renovation, 25 boxes of documents shredded; 819 records added and 289 modified in the public portal, totaling 7,000 new pages accessible to the public. - 2026 budget highlights: Salary increase (At-Large members' pay bump, new permanent staff, 3% raises, 27th pay period); $5,200 for a citywide mailer (new); reductions in branded apparel and capital; professional services line item $38,470 (includes $6,000 for a scanning project, $2,000 more for leadership initiatives; remaining as reserve for council priorities). - Planned 2026 initiatives: community conversations, citywide mailer, continued records management with professional vendor, block club support, charter review recommendations, zoning code refresh. - Council President Keppel confirmed that the mailer could be used to educate the public on charter review ballot items. Council members discussed the importance of block club engagement and emergency communication networks. Substitutions and Finalization of Budget Ordinances - Councilman Bullock introduced substitute versions of several ordinances, reflecting updated figures and changes discussed with the Finance Director. The committee reviewed and voted on each substitute. - Ordinance 31-2025 (2025 Year-End Appropriations) : Substitute increased General Fund appropriations from $60.99M (projected 12 months ago) to $70.9M, reflecting higher-than-expected revenues and fiscal stewardship. Key additions: $900,000 to hospitalization fund, $475,000 for capital (to avoid debt), transfers to street maintenance, Office on Aging, Winterhurst, and $4M temporary advance to CDBG (awaiting federal reimbursement). Approved. - Ordinance 32-2025 (Transfers and Advances) : Substitute increased transfers from General Fund to street maintenance, Office on Aging, capital projects, Winterhurst, and CDBG, partially using surplus to reduce future borrowing. Approved. - Ordinance 33-2025 (2026 Appropriations) : Substitute removed $16.5M for City Hall renovation from the Capital Improvement Fund (decreasing from $34.79M to $16.79M). A separate land acquisition fund was increased to $1.5M (the existing balance). Council discussed keeping the land acquisition fund as a reserve for property purchases, noting that any acquisition would require separate council approval. No motion to reduce the land acquisition fund was made. Approved. - Ordinance 35-2025 (Capital Contracting Authority) : Substitute reduced the capital contracting authority for building and facilities improvements from $27M to $10.5M, reflecting the removal of City Hall renovation funds. Councilman Bullock proposed an additional amendment to explicitly prohibit using the remaining funds for City Hall acquisition or renovation without further council action. After debate, the Mayor and Finance Director clarified that the funds could not be used for City Hall renovation without council approval (no borrowing authorized) and that the administration intends to cooperate on a global strategy. The amendment was not formally moved; the substitute was approved with the understanding that the administration will not proceed unilaterally. - Ordinance 36-2025 (Planning & Development Contracting Authority) : Substitute lowered the amount from $6.75M to a more accurate figure and added itemized program amounts (rather than vague line items). Council appreciated the clarity. Approved. - Ordinance 34-2025 (General Contracting Authority) : No substitute; remained as introduced. Approved as part of the omnibus motion. Council Budget Priorities Amendments (Discussion, No Votes) - Councilman Bullock presented a chart of 16 potential council priorities (originating from council retreats over 12+ months) and offered five possible amendments totaling up to $570,000. He argued that funding could be sourced from the General Fund surplus, Economic Development Fund balance, or reduction in capital. Council members Baker and Strebig suggested most issues could be addressed later in the year through collaboration with the administration. Mayor George noted having received the document only hours before and requested more time to discuss specifics. No formal motions were made on the items, and they were not added to the budget ordinances. Key Outcomes - Approval of Minutes: Unanimous. - Ordinance 29-2025 (Petty Cash/Operational Funds): Recommended for full council approval (substitute adopted, then reported out). - Substitute Ordinances Adopted and Favorably Reported Out: All seven ordinances (31-2025, 32-2025, 33-2025, 34-2025, 35-2025, 36-2025, 29-2025) were passed by the committee as substituted/amended, with unanimous votes. These will now go to the full City Council for final reading and adoption. - No Action on Council Priority Items: The committee did not adopt any amendments beyond those offered from the administration. Further discussions on block clubs, traffic calming, and other priorities were deferred. - Adjournment: 7:29 PM (one minute early), without objection.