Public Meetings - Lakewood, Ohio

The Finance Committee held a budget hearing on Monday, December 8, 2025, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium to review the proposed 2026 comprehensive budget. Presentations were given by the Human Services, Information Technology, Building & Housing, Planning & Development, Law, and Finance departments. The committee also handled several procedural motions, including approval of minutes and substitution of amended ordinances. Discussion Items Human Services Department (Director Chad Barry) - Director Barry highlighted 2025 accomplishments: a $17,000 national parks grant for outdoor space at Cove, a new generator for emergency operations, a Common Ground event with over 450 attendees, and expanded programming. For 2026, strategic goals include expanding community outreach, restructuring staffing, and addressing adult crises (ages 18–59). - Division of Aging: Budget highlights include a $126,000 increase in contractual services for Senior Transportation Connection due to rising costs and reduced outside funding. The city expects to come in under that amount. - Division of Youth: 125 backpacks were given out at a back-to-school resource fair (62 to Lakewood families). H2O summer camp is at highest capacity since COVID. A new visitation coach position was created via modification, and a partnership with Job and Family Services for benefits clinics at Cove is planned for 2026. - Child Care Scholarship: Spend is consistent, but rising child care costs limit reach. The department is conducting a community needs assessment and coordinating with the school district on Lincoln’s transition to early childhood education. - Overall Budget: Salaries reflect a 27th pay period (6% increase) and a halftime FTE increase. The contractual services increase for custodial cleaning (from $14,000 to $43,000) is due to understaffing at Cove. Printing costs drove a 39% increase in “other” expenses. - Councilmember Strebig noted Lakewood achieved a perfect score on the HRC Municipal Equality Index for the second year in a row, one of only three cities in Ohio. Information Technology Division (CIO Michael Coletta) - 2025 accomplishments: cybersecurity program implementation (including mandatory training via Ohio Cyber Reserve), e-citation system for Lakewood Municipal Court, completion of PC replacement cycle, and fiber connection to Winterhurst for security cameras. - Budget: Professional services increased 147% due to first-year implementation costs for two major software acquisitions. The citywide phone system replacement is pushed to 2027. Discussion covered potential to reduce desk phones by using VoIP and softphones, with 200 city-issued cell phones already in use. - New Software: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software (Tyler Technologies) will replace the 1999 mainframe-based system, moving to a fully cloud-based platform for finance, payroll, and utility billing. Implementation cost is $350,000 first year, with annual maintenance of $147,000. Public safety CAD software is also being replaced (year one: $750,000; subsequent years: $200,000). - The city uses about 30 different software packages; the new ERP will consolidate many functions. Councilmember Baker noted the change management challenge. Building & Housing Department (Commissioner Chris Parmelee) - 2025 metrics: Certificate of code compliance inspections up 19%, complaints up (high grass 40%, proactive inspections up), 1,600 property maintenance cases (up 17%), commercial permits down 6%, residential permits slightly up, total permit volume just over 2,000. Construction valuation reached $169 million, driven by Lakewood Common ($98.5M) and other large projects. - Plan reviews: 80% of commercial plans outsourced (two contracted examiners costing $45,000/year). Residential plans reviewed in-house, averaging 12–15 days vs. state’s 30-day limit. - Accomplishments: Digital archiving of large-scale plans completed for $73,000 (budgeted $120,000). Part-time zoning inspector (Leslie) hired jointly with Planning to enforce sign compliance and awnings. New state licensing matrix for inspectors implemented. - High Grass: Increase attributed to new out-of-state landlords and tenant negligence. Enforcement uses stickers on windows, with Public Works cutting at $200 per cut, billed to owner; unpaid fees go on property tax bills. - Snow Removal: Process similar to high grass – tags on commercial properties, followed by Public Works if not cleared. Focus on commercial corridors, school neighborhoods. - Budget: Professional services increase ($168,000 to $297,500) due to stormwater engineering fees collected through building department. CDBG fund covers one property maintenance inspector for Birdtown. Planning & Development Department (Director Angela Byington, Assistant Director David Boss) - Zoning/Inspections: New zoning inspector Leslie Page opened 95 cases, closed 59, performed 178 inspections (average 27 days to close). Focus on unapproved signage, outdoor dining, and ABR compliance. - Major Projects: Lakewood Common (groundbreaking Sept. 2025) and West Line (124 units, 148 parking spaces) are under construction. Approved for 2026: townhomes at Thoreau Place and 120 apartments at View on Detroit East. - Parks: Madison Park improvements (Birdtown Connector path, farmers market running 20 weeks with $5,000+ in assistance). Beck’s Pool improvements planned for 2026. Skate park phase two completed with shade element donation. Morrow-Bunts Park and Niagara Park new playgrounds installed. - Public Art: 42 traffic signal boxes wrapped with artistic vinyl (11 artists). Online map launched. CDBG funds will support 35 more wraps and 5 bus shelter wraps in 2026. - Climate Action: 400 trees given away (up from 200), EV charger at Kaufman Park, 10,000 recycling education magnets distributed. Next year: explore sustainable purchasing, pilot home retrofit, balloon release ordinance, and certifications (Bicycle Friendly Community, SolSmart, Tree Growth Award). - Traffic Calming: 18 determinations made in 2025; 38 streets under study. Giel and Woodward qualified for speed tables (spring 2026 installation). $60,000 budget for speed tables ($5,000 each) and radar signs ($2,000 each). - Housing/Community Development: $225,000 in CDBG loans/grants; 25 units rehabilitated; $125,000 in storefront renovation grants; $700,000 in social service funding serving 7,400 residents. 1472 Bell Avenue renovation completed and will be marketed to low-moderate income family. Nelson Court phase two initiated. - Winterhurst Arena: Locker room renovation and rink space renovation underway (expected completion April-June 2026). HVAC replacement pushed to 2027 due to higher-than-expected costs. Arena operating reserve at $57,000 (up from $14,000). New scoreboards operational. Revenue from scoreboard advertising being explored. Law Department (Director Ernie Vargo) - Department staff includes two prosecutors with considerable experience, Assistant Law Director Jeff Crossman (19 years development experience), and Assistant Director Jen Swallow (long institutional knowledge). Two part-time law clerks support prosecutors. - Budget increase of 11% mainly to raise prosecutor salaries to be more competitive. Professional services budget decreased from $146,000 to $107,000; actual 2025 spend is only $36,000, so lower spending expected. - Director Vargo noted the prosecutors have strong credibility with the judge and magistrates. The department’s cohesive professionalism was commended. Finance Department (Director Mahoney, Assistant Director Eddy, Samantha Nicastro) - Tax Collections: Income tax accounts for 55% of general fund revenue. Over 30,000 tax returns audited annually. Tax rate unchanged since 1981. E-files have increased, though the website is a common complaint. Cost of collections under 4% of $33 million collected. - Utility Billing: Collects $31 million per year, sends 14,000 bills monthly. New payment platform envisioned with Tyler ERP system, allowing residents to pay utility bills, taxes, and other fees in one place. - Vitals: Birth/death certificates issued at $25 (set by state). Since 2025, can issue death certificates statewide, causing a massive uptick (230 in two weeks vs. 50-80/month previously). The department is not required but provides a slight positive revenue. - New ERP System: Tyler Technologies will replace the 25-year-old system. First-year implementation estimated at $350,000, annual maintenance $147,000. New system will include general ledger, payroll, utility billing, and content management for contracts. - Credit Card Fees: Currently the city absorbs the 3% transaction fee. A new fee ordinance will allow the city to pass on the fee to residents, which could generate over $300,000 annually, more than covering the ERP system cost. Key Outcomes - Procedural Motions: The committee unanimously voted to receive and file communications items 10, 11, and 12 (salary ordinance, benefits update, composting resolution). - Substitute Amendments: The committee voted to substitute updated versions of Ordinances 33-2025, 34-2025, 35-2025, and 36-2025 as proposed by the administration (technical corrections and updates to contracting authority language). - Next Steps: Council members will continue working on budget priorities and potential amendments over the next week, with a follow-up meeting scheduled for Monday, December 15, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. (Council night) to finalize the budget.

The Finance Committee met on December 1, 2025, from 5:50 PM to approximately 7:30 PM in the Lakewood City Hall Auditorium to continue budget hearings for the proposed 2026 comprehensive budget. The committee received presentations from the Fire Department, Lakewood Municipal Court, and Police Department, and discussed council-initiated budget amendments and contracting authority. No final votes were taken on the budget ordinances. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the draft minutes from the November 24, 2025 Finance Committee meeting by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items Fire Department Budget (Chief Fairbanks) - Chief Fairbanks presented the Fire Department’s 2025 accomplishments and 2026 plans. Key points: - 93 personnel, three shifts, three fire stations, three ALS paramedic units. - 8,237 calls for service as of November 21, 2025; 2,097 fire-related, majority EMS. 70% of patients transported, with 40% to Fairview Hospital, 28% to Lakewood Hospital. - Added one person per shift (3 total) in 2025 to reduce overtime costs; early data shows overtime trending downward. - New equipment: rescue boat, 2025 ambulance (ordered 2022), battery-operated extrication tools, with gas-powered backup. - Recruitment challenges: shrinking applicant pool; exploring National Testing Network (NTN) to expand reach. - 2026 plans: take delivery of another medic unit, implement Extreme Ownership Academy officer training, give captain promotional exam, potentially hold entrance exam. - Councilmember questions: Baker asked about overtime savings; Bullock asked about equipment cost strategy and recruitment. Chief stated the new hires are expected to be net savings including health care costs. Lakewood Municipal Court Budget (Judge Neff & Court Administrator Maria Russo) - Judge Neff and Ms. Russo presented the court’s budget and operations. - Hired a full-time magistrate to replace two part-time magistrates, improving consistency. - Requesting approval to hire two part-time deputy clerks (civil and criminal divisions) to handle increased caseload (from 700 cases in August 2022 to nearly 800 in 2025). - Implemented new case management system (Henshin) in February 2025, funded by grants. - Launched e-ticketing in collaboration with Police Department – electronic citations save time and reduce errors. - Partnered with Ohio Attorney General’s Office for collection of outstanding fines; as of August 28, 2025, sent approximately $155,000 across 870 records, with no cost to the court. - Driving Under Suspension (DUS) pilot project launched October 23, 2025, to get drivers legal and insured. - Ongoing scanning initiative to digitize civil and criminal files; removed 18 filing cabinets from storage. - Councilmember questions: Strebig asked about budget decrease in court special projects (explained as personnel reclassification); Steiner asked about part-time benefits (not eligible for health) and expressed interest in data on DUS pilot effectiveness. - Judge Neff noted mental health as a recurring theme in cases. Council-Initiated Budget Amendments & Contracting Authority - Councilmember Baker raised concerns about the level of specificity in capital budget ordinances (Ordinances 34-2025, 35-2025, 36-2025). He requested more detailed line items, particularly for the $18 million City Hall improvement project and other capital buckets. - Finance Director Mahoney explained that the appropriation ordinance (33-2025) is the true spending authority, while contracting authority ordinances (34, 35, 36) include a buffer to allow flexibility. The capital plan in the budget book details the projects. - Councilmember Bullock noted that the administration’s proposed contracting authority for capital is $27 million, while the capital plan shows $25.583 million, representing a significant buffer. He questioned the 20% contingency on some items. - Council President Keppel noted discrepancies between the capital improvement plan spreadsheet and the ordinance numbers and will follow up with Director Mahoney. - The committee agreed to work towards a draft of proposed amendments by the next meeting (December 8, 2025) and to receive corrected red-line versions of ordinances. Police Department Budget (Chief Fischer) - Chief Fischer presented the Police Department’s 2025 accomplishments and 2026 plans. - Currently 97 officers (up from 95 last year), hired 8 new officers including 3 females. Overtime budget significantly underspent due to full staffing. - Community outreach: coffee with a vet, LPD-LHS tailgate, cram the cruiser, shop with a cop, blue envelope program for individuals with autism/developmental disabilities. - Traffic stops: 5,000 more warnings than previous year, positive interactions; citations down slightly, parking tickets up 4 from last year. - Crime reports decreasing, felony arrests increasing. - Received $138,000 from Ohio Attorney General’s CPT reimbursement program for training. - Jail passed fully compliant inspection; hired additional jailers. - Dispatch hired 12th full-time dispatcher; three nominees for Gold Star Awards. - Animal control: new shelter opened, third full-time ACO hired, new truck, chemical capture certification. - 2026 priorities: continue proactive hiring, utilize NTN for recruitment, increase CIT (Crisis Intervention Team) training – now mandatory at academy for new officers. - Councilmember questions: Keppel asked about CIT training; Chief confirmed all new officers receive CIT, and lateral transfers are trained. Steiner encouraged seeking state grants for mental health programs. Key Outcomes - The committee approved the November 24, 2025 meeting minutes. - No votes were taken on budget ordinances. The committee will continue deliberations at the next hearing on December 8, 2025, with a goal of adopting the budget in a timely manner. - Councilmembers will work with Finance Director Mahoney to draft proposed amendments to the budget ordinances, including more detailed capital project line items, by December 8, 2025. - The administration will provide corrected red-line versions of the ordinances for the next meeting. - The committee expressed appreciation for the presentations and the work of the Fire, Police, and Court departments.

The Lakewood City Council held its regular meeting on December 1, 2025, at 7:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included the adoption of several resolutions, the receipt of a councilmember's resignation, multiple committee reports, and a discussion on intervening in First Energy reliability proceedings. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the November 17, 2025 regular meeting without a reading (motion passed unanimously). - Received and filed the oral report from the Finance Committee meetings held November 24 and December 1, 2025 (motion passed unanimously). - Adopted Resolution 2025-68, authorizing the Mayor to negotiate and enter into a contract with a composting provider for a citywide composting program, with a target implementation by Earth Day, April 22, 2026 (motion passed unanimously). - Adopted Resolution 2025-70, as amended, appointing Councilmember Angelina Hamilton Steiner as the ex-officio, non-voting councilmember to the Lakewood Animal Safety and Welfare Advisory Board for a term from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2027 (motion passed unanimously). - Adopted Substitute Resolution 2025-60, approving the amended bylaws of the Lakewood Youth Council (motion passed unanimously). - Adopted Resolution 2025-74, supporting the City of Lakewood's intervention in the First Energy PUCO proceedings regarding minimum reliability standards (motion passed unanimously). - Received and filed the November 2025 Finance Department vendor report (motion passed unanimously). - Filed the liquor permit notice for Easy Out, 11824 Detroit Ave. (Ward 4), without objection (motion passed unanimously). Public Comments & Testimony - One e-comment was received and entered into the record. No in-person speakers signed up. Discussion Items - Finance Committee Report (Councilmember Bullock): The committee worked on the 2026 appropriation ordinances and end-of-year 2025 budget adjustments. Approximately half of the departments have been reviewed, with the goal of adopting the budget by December 15. The report was received and filed. - Deferral of Ordinances (Items 3–14): Council suspended the rules to read items 3 through 14 together. Councilmember Marx requested a cost estimate for Ordinance 38-2025 (sick time payout) and asked that it be provided before the next meeting. The items were deferred to allow continued work in the Finance Committee. - Resignation of Councilmember Marx: Councilmember Marx read her resignation letter, effective December 31, 2025, due to her upcoming marriage and move to Shaker Heights. The letter was received and filed. Council President Kepple announced that applications for the Ward 4 vacancy will be accepted through January 2, 2026, at noon, with an appointment process to follow. - Youth Council Report (Councilmember Strebig): The Lakewood Youth Council met on November 20. They discussed a proposal for a Youth Advocacy Committee but decided to incorporate it into the Outreach Committee. The Council also discussed mandatory mental health days and a pinwheel walk for child abuse awareness. The report was received and filed. - Animal Safety and Welfare Advisory Board Report (Councilmember Strebig): The board met on November 19 and reviewed the latest draft of the TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) ordinance. All registration and training requirements were removed, and the language recommended by Alley Cat Allies was included. The board agreed to move the draft forward with a typo correction ("Release" to "Return") to a Public Safety Committee meeting in January. The pet food drive on November 15 collected 2,093 pounds of food. The report was received and filed. - Community Recreation and Education Commission Report (Councilmember Strebig): The commission met on November 18. Youth basketball travel team numbers are up, but 5th and 6th grade girls' in-house basketball numbers are down, possibly due to volleyball popularity. The Student Athletic Leadership Team (SALT) is visiting elementary schools. Equity concerns were raised about softball players' access to turf fields after rain. The report was received and filed. - First Energy PUCO Proceedings (Law Director Vargo): The City of Lakewood and Barberton have intervened in the PUCO proceedings where First Energy seeks to reduce reliability standards. The Ohio Consumers' Council will present technical evidence in opposition. The Council adopted Resolution 2025-74, which will be submitted to the PUCO by December 8 as part of the evidentiary record. Councilmember Bullock noted that the local utility, Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, is already the worst performer in First Energy's territory, and the company is asking to worsen standards. The Mayor thanked Councilmember Bullock for his collaboration. Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolution 2025-68 (composting program). - Adopted Resolution 2025-70 as amended (appointment to Animal Safety Board). - Adopted Substitute Resolution 2025-60 (Youth Council bylaws). - Adopted Resolution 2025-74 (support for PUCO intervention). - Deferred ordinances 31-2025 through 30-2025 for further Finance Committee work. - Accepted the resignation of Councilmember Marx, effective December 31, 2025. Applications for the Ward 4 vacancy will be accepted through January 2, 2026, at noon. - Received and filed multiple committee reports and the vendor report. - Filed the liquor permit notice without objection. Announcements - Vice President Baker announced "Light Up Lakewood" this weekend and that Lakewood Alive Executive Director Ian Andrews will join the city's Planning Department. - Councilmember Strebig noted World AIDS Day (December 1) and shared global HIV statistics, including the new Lencapavir injection requiring only two doses per year. - Councilmember Marx thanked the Lakewood Fire and Police Departments for their response to a fire at a resident's home on Homeland. - Councilmember Bullock thanked Public Works for the snowflake lights and for working over the holiday weekend on snow and leaf removal. - The Chief of Police announced the "Cram the Cruiser" food drive at Giant Eagle on December 15 from 3–6 PM.

Note: The agenda listed this meeting as scheduled from 6:00–8:45 p.m., while the provided transcript timestamp indicates 10:45 a.m. This discrepancy is noted. The Finance Committee began its series of budget hearings for the 2026 fiscal year. The meeting covered an overview of the proposed budget, a detailed presentation from the Public Works Department, an update on health insurance and human resources matters, and a discussion of council-initiated budget amendments. Several pieces of legislation were recommended favorably to the full council. Consent Calendar - The committee approved minutes from the October 27, 2025 and November 10, 2025 meetings by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Bonnie Sykes (Lakewood resident) urged the committee to include funding for a citywide composting program in the budget, stating it would be an oversight not to do so. - Catherine Simnik (Ward 3 resident) expressed disappointment that the program appeared to be a pilot rather than free citywide composting by her birthday in 2026, but expressed full support for whatever amount is approved. She asked for flexibility to expand the pilot beyond 200 people if possible, and noted that other communities (e.g., Cleveland Heights) offer one free drop-off site. Discussion Items - Resolution 2025-68 – Citywide Composting Program: Councilmember Hamilton Steiner, co-sponsor, explained the program would start as a pilot with one additional free drop-off site (similar to existing paid sites at Lakewood Park and Madison Park). Estimated cost between $26,000 and $35,000 annually, with potential grant funding. The resolution authorizes the Mayor to negotiate a contract without specifying a dollar amount. The committee voted to recommend the resolution favorably to full council (voice vote, all ayes). - Budget Overview (Finance Director Mahoney): The proposed 2026 budget is structurally balanced with a $17,173 surplus. Major expenditures include 27 biweekly pay periods (an extra pay year), a 3% wage increase, and capital projects (Bunts Road, Madison Park, City Hall improvements). Income tax and property tax together comprise 77% of general fund revenue. Income tax is budgeted at 3% growth; property tax increased by $3 million in 2025 but is flat for the next two years. The city aims to maintain 64 days of reserves. Councilmembers questioned the slim margin and the practice of rating short-term notes (projected interest savings of $100,000 vs. $10–15,000 in legal fees). - Public Works & Capital Budget (Director Gordon & City Engineer Papke): - Streets: 1,871 resident calls responded to; 582 cubic yards of concrete placed; crack sealing planned for Brown, Warren, and Riverside Drive. - Forestry: 200 trees planted in 2025; 350–400 planned for 2026; Tree City USA status maintained for 48 years. - Fleet: Transition to hybrid vehicles; municipal capital leases for vehicles (financed to own in 5 years). - Parks: Madison Park Futsal Court upgrade (CDBG grant of $50,000) and Bex Pool conceptual design/engagement in 2026; playground improvements deferred until pool layout is finalized. - Water/Wastewater: 94 lead service lines replaced in 2025 pilot; phase one of six-year program to replace 550 lines per year starting 2026 (cost $4.2M/year, funded by WSRLA zero-interest loan with 53% principal forgiveness). Update on consent decree: CSO 52 project (Madison/Riverside) to be bid in January 2026, cost $33.7M (under estimate), capturing 96.5% of pollutants. Bunts Road project phase one (Lakewood Heights to Franklin) to start April 2026. - Capital budget: $500,000 for sidewalk program (complaint-based); $277,000 in general fund capital spending; $1.5M for Lakewood Park Pier (on hold). - Health Insurance, Workers’ Comp, & HR (Director Dillinger): - Workers’ compensation: Self-funded, budgeted at $596,000 (including stop-loss at $750,000). One large claim currently. - Health insurance: Self-funded with Medical Mutual; projected 7% increase for 2026 (from $9.1M to $9.75M). No premium increases; plan design changes implemented. Two $3 million claims in past two years (covered by stop-loss). High-deductible health plan enrollment encouraged; employer contribution to HSA. Dependent audit planned. - Salary Ordinance (Ordinance 37-2025): 3% COLA for nonunion employees; obsolete titles removed; new licenses added. Recommended favorably (voice vote, all ayes). - Benefits Ordinance (Ordinance 38-2025): Faster vacation accrual, increased maximum vacation, Veterans Day added as paid holiday, improved sick leave conversion. Recommended favorably (voice vote, all ayes). - Council-Initiated Budget Amendments (Councilman Evans): Proposals include increased funding for Lakewood Alive (via ARPA transfer), permanent capital funding for public art, and proactive traffic calming measures (speed tables, bump outs) near schools. Further discussion to continue throughout the budget process. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of October 27 and November 10, 2025. - Recommended Resolution 2025-68 (citywide composting) favorably to full council (voice vote, all ayes). - Recommended Ordinance 37-2025 (salary ordinance) favorably to full council (voice vote, all ayes). - Recommended Ordinance 38-2025 (vacation, holiday, sick leave changes) favorably to full council (voice vote, all ayes). - Council-initiated budget amendments will be refined and presented in subsequent hearings. - The next budget hearing is scheduled for December 1, 2025, covering the Municipal Court, Fire, and Police budgets.

The Board of Zoning Appeals met on November 20, 2025, to consider a variance request for a new single-family home at 1114 Forest Road. After public comment and deliberation, the board voted 3–2 to approve the variances, allowing the owner to build with reduced front setbacks from Forest Road and Clifton Boulevard. Consent Calendar - Docket 1-20-25 (62 Lauderdale Avenue): This minor area variance was administratively approved; no board action required. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Fraser (1124 Forest Road): Opposed, arguing the lot is an orphan parcel from the 1962 Clifton Boulevard extension, the variances are substantial (80% and 60%), and the applicant knew about the need for variances before purchasing. Referenced the Duncan v. Middlefield criteria. - Mary Ann Crampton (17893 Captain's Cove): Opposed, speaking as a former Clifton Park trustee. Noted that Clifton Park has no HOA, and other homes close to Clifton Boulevard are larger. The trustees have a policy that orphan lots are unbuildable and do not grant beach access. Expressed fear the house would become an absentee landlord rental. - Tara Caravan Weddle (1116 Forest Road, adjacent neighbor): Opposed. Disputed the applicant's claim that her driveway encroaches on his property (her survey shows 0.4 inches). Stated she was told the lot was unbuildable. Argued the structure would devalue her property, destroy old-growth trees, and disrupt wildlife corridors. - Ryan Nowlin (18177 Clifton Road): Opposed, emphasizing the substantial variance, the applicant's prior knowledge, and the alteration of low-density zoning character. - Paula Reed (1080 Kirtland Lane): Opposed, stating the project would harm the western gateway of the city and stick out as a sore thumb. - James Roomer (1126 Forest Road): Opposed, noting the survey available before purchase showed minimal buildable area. Raised concerns about the planned community confluence road project (roundabouts) that may affect the site, and the removal of a light pole and trees. - Kevin Butler (attorney for neighbors): Opposed. Argued there is no code section guaranteeing a home on every lot, and that other orphan parcels along Clifton Boulevard remain unbuilt. The variances are too large, and the city should not set a precedent. Requested the full May 2024 application be made part of the record. - Woody Hall (former ARB member): Opposed, urging the board to be brave and deny because the variance magnitude undermines the zoning code. - Robert Ivanov: Asked about acquiring state property for the right-of-way; clarified that the house sits entirely within the property lines and no acquisition is needed. Discussion Items - Applicant Presentation: Nick Matouch (Old World Custom Homes) and owner Jason Leo presented the revised plans. The proposed home is two-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath, approximately 1,700 square feet, with a detached garage. Variances sought: front setback from Forest Road – 30.25 ft (required 50 ft) and from Clifton Boulevard – 24.4 ft (required 50 ft). They reduced massing from a prior denial in May 2024 by detaching the garage, decreasing square footage, and lowering height to 28 ft 8 in. The lot is about 8,000 sq ft in an R1 low-density district. - Owner Statements: Jason Leo stated he contacted the city before purchasing and was told the lot was buildable with variances. He spent $4,000 on a survey and tried to work with neighbors, including offering to sell the lot for green space, but received no response. He acknowledged the beach access policy and said he was aware the property is not part of Clifton Park beach privileges. - Board Deliberation: - Matt Markling: Supported approval, noting the owner has a right to build, the code permits variances, and no smaller house could avoid a variance. The owner made good-faith reductions. - Michael Alexander: Supported approval, emphasizing that private property should not be treated as common green space. Found the arguments about renters and beach access offensive. - Anthony Santiago: Voted in favor, finding the spirit of the code allows this and the applicant met practical difficulty. - Gillian Bellino: Voted against, concerned that the structure feels too small for the large-lot neighborhood and that previous revisions did not substantially reduce the setback requests. - Jeffrey Piggett: Voted against, citing substantial variances, safety concerns on Clifton Boulevard, historic neighborhood precedent, and the applicant's knowledge. - Administrative Comments (Ms. Nocta): The same owner was denied in May 2024. The current proposal reduced massing but increased the variance from Clifton Boulevard (now under 6 ft). No prior variances for new construction with such setbacks in Clifton Park. The lot was created by eminent domain in 1962, and the building line map shows 50-ft setbacks for both streets. The public record included 11 written comments (31 pages), all opposed. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve the variances as proposed: Passed 3–2 (Michael Alexander – aye, Gillian Bellino – no, Matt Markling – aye, Jeffrey Piggett – no, Anthony Santiago – aye). - Effect: The applicant may proceed with the construction of a single-family home at 1114 Forest Road with reduced front setbacks (30.25 ft from Forest Road and 24.4 ft from Clifton Boulevard), subject to architectural review by the Architectural Review Board. - Other: Minutes from the October 16, 2025 meeting were approved. The meeting adjourned after the vote.

The Lakewood City Council Committee of the Whole met on November 14, 2025, to discuss long-range solutions to space constraints at City Hall, particularly for the police department, and to make an appointment to the Tree Advisory & Education Board. The meeting featured a detailed presentation from consultants comparing three conceptual options for renovation and expansion, with cost estimates ranging from $21.4 million to $39.7 million. The council also entered executive session to consider the appointment of a public official and subsequently voted to refer a resolution with the appointed name to full council. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the October 13, 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting were approved unanimously without discussion. Discussion Items - City Hall Space Due Diligence Update: Council President Sarah Kepple presented a communication updating the status of the ongoing due diligence process. She noted that since July 2025, when the administration proposed purchasing 1470 Warren Road, a council working group (Kepple, Vice President Baker, Councilman Evans) had been meeting weekly with consultants from Project Management Consultants (PMC) and Weber Murphy Fox (WMF) to evaluate options. The goal was to produce an "apples-to-apples" comparison of three high-level conceptual options using parametric estimates (with a 10-15% swing). - Option 1: Renovate City Hall with a small (3,000 sq. ft.) addition to the east, renovate the Annex across the street. Estimated total project cost: $21.4 million. 62,000 gross sq. ft. renovated/new. No room for growth. City functions remain in one location. No renovation to existing jail or support spaces. - Option 2: Renovate City Hall with a large two-story addition on the front (approx. 20,000 sq. ft.), renovate the Annex. Estimated cost: $30.98 million. 74,872 gross sq. ft. renovated/new. Room for growth. City functions remain in one location. No renovation to jail/support spaces. - Option 3: Purchase and fully gut-renovate 1470 Warren Road (old Board of Education building), renovate City Hall as a justice center after moving administrative functions, and sell the Annex. Estimated cost: $39.7 million (including $1.5M purchase price and $0.5M assumed Annex sale). 90,459 gross sq. ft. renovated/new. Plenty of room for growth. City functions split between two locations. Involves loss of tax revenue (income and property) from Warren Road property. - Presentation: Chris Paniki (PMC) and David Thal (WMF) explained the methodologies, including cost per square foot assumptions (renovation: $100-$200/sq. ft. depending on scope; new construction: $440-$500/sq. ft.), soft costs, owner's contingency (10%), and escalation through 2026 (4-5%). Ken Kalinchuk (PMC) presented a financial analysis of potential tax revenue impacts if the Warren Road and Annex properties were sold and redeveloped privately, noting that the Warren Road property has approved incentives that would eliminate city property taxes for 30 years. - Council Discussion: Councilmembers asked clarifying questions about cost drivers, room for growth (defined as square footage beyond current needs), operational impacts, and the possibility of phasing. Councilmember Bullock cautioned against overbuilding for future personnel growth given budget constraints. Chief Fisher stated that the police department expects to maintain current staffing levels but needs adequate space for modern operations, including women's locker rooms and functional work areas. Several councilmembers expressed interest in further detailed programming discussions. - Appointment to Tree Advisory & Education Board: Councilmember Evans reported that interviews were conducted with a strong pool of candidates. The council discussed Resolution 2025-41, which includes a vacant appointment for a three-year term beginning January 1, 2026. Key Outcomes - Executive Session: Council voted to enter executive session under Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22(G) for the purpose of considering the appointment of a public official. No action was taken in open session on the executive session. - Appointment: Following executive session, Council voted to enter the name Katie Kelleher into Resolution 2025-41 and referred the resolution as amended favorably to full Council. The motion passed unanimously. - Next Steps: The Council working group will continue to refine the space options, with the goal of integrating the findings into the upcoming capital budget process. A decision on how to proceed is expected in the near term, respecting the current owner of the Warren Road property.

The Lakewood City Council held its regular meeting on November 17, 2025, at 7:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included committee reports, adoption of several resolutions, referral of numerous budget and policy items to committees, and public comment on handball courts and bicycle infrastructure. The meeting was preceded by a moment of silence in recognition of Transgender Day of Remembrance. Consent Calendar - Reading and disposal of minutes from the November 3, 2025 regular meeting and the November 10, 2025 special meeting were approved without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - Caesar Vargas (resident, Dale View Drive) spoke in support of adding proper handball courts in Lakewood, citing 60 existing players and the need for affordable, lifelong activity. He invited council members to observe the Harding Middle School handball club. - Charlie Amen (8th grader, Harding Middle School) supported Mr. Vargas, noting the lack of courts at Lakewood High School and the cooperative, multi-generational nature of the sport. - Cassie Organ (resident) commented on proposed bicycle infrastructure amendments, expressing concern that the definition of "mobility device" and new restrictions on bikeways and shared use paths could inadvertently ban adult e-bike users from using these facilities. She urged more nuanced consideration of e-bike classes and accessibility. Discussion Items - Finance Committee Report (November 10, 2025): Councilmember Bullock reported on two items: (1) The Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) recommended FY26 allocations of $1.75 million in CDBG funds and $160,000 in ESG funds, including first-time funding of $42,500 for the city's public art program. (2) Resolution 2025-65, authorizing a fourth amended lease with Lakewood Child Care Center at 1450 Belle Avenue, was amended to correct a typo and favorably referred. Councilmember Baker recused himself due to a conflict of interest (spouse on the board). - Health & Human Services Committee Report (November 10, 2025): Councilmember Marx reported on Resolution 2025-54, a two-year contract with the Cuyahoga County Board of Health (CCBH) for public health services at $456,440 for 2026 and $511,458 for 2027 (12% increase each year). CCBH highlighted new mobile unit, speakers bureau, and IT investments. The committee favorably referred the resolution. - Housing, Planning & Development Committee Report (November 10, 2025): Councilmember Baker reported on a presentation from Lakewood Alive, noting a rise in senior participation (from 40% to 70% of their housing program). Council agreed to continue partnership. - Committee of the Whole Report (November 17, 2025): Council President Kepple summarized three options for city hall space solutions: (1) remain in existing city hall with small addition ($21.4M), (2) large addition plus annex renovation ($30.9M), (3) purchase Warren Road property, gut renovation, and convert current city hall to justice center ($39.7M). Resolution 2025-41 (Tree Advisory Board appointment) was amended to name Katie Kelleher and favorably referred. - Communication from Lakewood Youth Council: Councilmember Strebig presented a letter from the Youth Council strongly supporting reintroduction of a circulator bus or new transit within the city, citing chronic absenteeism, social isolation, and cost of cars. The communication was received and filed. - Community Recreation and Education Commission (CREC) Report: Councilmember Strebig reported on October 21 meeting, including winter brochure deadlines, fall sports updates, new pool lane lines, and a comprehensive inventory of outdoor basketball hoops at schools and parks. No current plans to add more hoops. - Budget and Finance Items: Finance Director Mahoney introduced six ordinances (31-2025 through 36-2025) covering 2025 year-end appropriations, 2026 budget, transfers, and purchasing/contracting authority. All were referred to the Finance Committee. - Petty Cash and Operational Cash Funds: Director Mahoney proposed updates to codified ordinances to adjust petty cash and operational cash funds, including removal of some departments and establishment of a fund for refuse. Referred to Finance. - Master Fee Schedule: Law Director Vargo proposed moving all fees from Administrative and Business Regulation codes into a single Master Fee Schedule (Resolution 2025-71 and Ordinance 30-2025). Both referred to Rules and Ordinances Committee. - Salary Ordinance and Benefits: HR Director Dillinger presented updates to the salary ordinance (Ordinance 37-2025) with 3% COLA for 2026, elimination of obsolete titles, and new license/certification supplements. Also proposed updated employment benefits for nonunion employees (Ordinance 38-2025) including faster vacation accrual, addition of Veterans Day as a holiday, and modified sick leave conversion. Both referred to Finance. - Pet Grooming Code Amendments: Assistant Planning Director Baas proposed amendments to make pet grooming a permitted use in C-2 and C-3 districts with supplemental regulations for noise/odor, replacing current conditional use restrictions. Ordinance 39-2025 referred to Housing, Planning & Development and Planning Commission. - Bicycle Infrastructure Code Amendments: Assistant Planning Director Baas proposed updates to definitions and regulations, including new sections on bikeways, shared use paths, and restrictions on mobility devices (e-bikes, e-scooters). Ordinance 40-2025 referred to Housing, Planning & Development and the CASE advisory board. Discussion noted concerns from Councilmembers Bullock and Baker about balancing safety and accessibility for e-bike users. - Vape Shop Moratorium Extension: Law Director Vargo presented Resolution 2025-72 to extend the existing moratorium on smoke shop permits until December 31, 2026, or until zoning code updates are enacted. The resolution was adopted. - Collective Bargaining Agreements: Law Director Vargo introduced Resolution 2025-73 to ratify eight tentative agreements covering more than 450 employees for 2026-2028. The resolution was referred to the Committee of the Whole, with Councilmember Bullock noting the need for careful review of financial implications. Key Outcomes - Adopted: Resolution 2025-65 (Lease with Lakewood Child Care Center) – Councilmember Baker abstained. - Adopted: Resolution 2025-66 (FY26 CDBG/ESG Action Plan) – Unanimous. - Adopted: Resolution 2025-54 (Public Health Services Contract with CCBH) – Unanimous. - Adopted: Resolution 2025-41 (Appointment of Katie Kelleher to Tree Advisory & Education Board) – Unanimous. - Adopted: Resolution 2025-72 (Extension of Vape Shop Moratorium) – Unanimous. - Deferred: Resolution 2025-70 (LASWAB ex-officio appointment) – Council will discuss interested members. - Referred to Committee: Budget ordinances (31-2025 through 36-2025), petty cash ordinance (29-2025), master fee schedule (Resolution 2025-71 and Ordinance 30-2025), salary ordinance (37-2025), benefits ordinance (38-2025), pet grooming ordinance (39-2025), bicycle infrastructure ordinance (40-2025), and collective bargaining resolution (2025-73) were referred to appropriate committees for further discussion. - Note: The agenda listed the meeting date as November 17, 2025; however, the provided instruction stated the meeting occurred on November 14, 2025. This summary uses the date from the agenda and transcript, which is the actual meeting date.

This meeting of the Lakewood Architectural Review Board (ARB) covered a range of items including summary approvals, a contentious denial of a brick painting proposal, and several approvals for additions, signage, and site improvements. The board deliberated on design standards, historic preservation, and neighborhood character. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Unanimously approved. - Docket 119425 – 181 Sloane Avenue (Tessero Gas Station): Summary approval for a pole sign and columns. Conditions: repaint pole sign and columns, window signage must be approved by the board before installation, and any alterations to the existing building require board review. Approved unanimously. - Docket 195251 – 15701 Detroit Avenue (Decent Shape Strength and Wellness Studio): Summary approval for signage. No conditions; under total allowed square footage. Approved unanimously. - Docket 119625 – 13320 Madison Avenue (Vital Bean Cafe): Summary approval for vinyl graphics in the front window. No conditions; under square footage allotment. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Brian Warren (1375 Lakewood Avenue): Commented on the brick painting case (Docket 104251) and the roof replacement case (Docket 119925). He asked about the finished appearance of the brick painting and noted that the awnings at his apartment are functional, providing rain protection, and expressed a desire to keep them. Discussion Items - Docket 104251 – 1284 Cove Avenue (Apartment Building): Applicant Jesse Hauser and Jasmine Letter proposed painting the brick exterior without prior approval. The board strongly opposed, citing that painting healthy brick is not acceptable, violates design standards, and harms the character of the neighborhood. The board noted that the painting continued after being asked to stop. Public comment from Brian Warren. The board voted to deny the case. (Motion: deny, seconded, unanimous). - Docket 065125 – 1070 Rosalie Avenue (Addition): Applicant Lee presented a revised design for a north-side addition. The board praised the improvements, including the dormer and roof pitch matching. Discussion included removal of shutters, window patterns, and the need for a street elevation with context. Approved with conditions: remove shutters on the lower level addition, revise the street elevation and site plan, submit landscape plan for administrative approval, and consider a bay window in the middle section. - Docket 108925 – 17879 Lake Road (Addition and Detached Garage): Applicant Mark Ryan presented a proposal for a mudroom, attached garage, and detached garage. The board appreciated the renderings and massing. Only concern was non-functional shutters on the new structures. Approved with condition: remove shutters on the proposed addition and garage. - Docket 197251 – 14414 Detroit Avenue (Marlowe Exchange Building – Comprehensive Sign Package): Applicant David Minet proposed a comprehensive sign package. Discussion focused on blade sign location, removal of existing window graphics, and updating renderings. Approved with conditions: remove ETHLets window graphics, locate the Maverick blade sign per elevation S4, and provide a clean set of updated drawings. - Docket 119825 – 18240 Detroit Avenue (Chelsea Apartments – Revised Dumpster Enclosure): No applicant present. The revised enclosure meets code requirements. Approved as presented. - Docket 119925 – 1375 Lakewood Avenue (Roof Replacement): Applicant Robert Podicar and Shane Brennan proposed replacing a flat roof with a hip roof. The board supported the roof but required removal of existing awnings to maintain design coherence. Public comment from tenant Brian Warren. Approved with condition: remove awnings. If the applicant wishes to keep them, they must return for review. - Docket 100251 – 17415 Northwood Avenue (St. James Corporate Building): Applicant Sean Nugent and architect Jeremy Smith proposed four projects: roof hatch, entrance canopy, chimney repair, and storage closets on existing balconies. The board found the proposals appropriate for the historic building. Approved with condition: any changes to the canopy require resubmission for administrative approval. - Docket 110125 – 13406 Harlan Avenue (Garage Replacement): No applicant present. The new garage is an improvement. Approved with no conditions. - Docket 110225 – 1321 Bunts Road (Addition, Covered Patio, New Garage): Applicant Brian Lincoln proposed a large rear addition, a covered breezeway, and a new garage. The board discussed massing, roof intersections, and site plan details. Approved with conditions: submit new light fixtures and exterior materials for administrative approval, expand the site plan to include street and sidewalk, and maintain the existing fence. Key Outcomes - Denied: Docket 104251 (brick painting at 1284 Cove Avenue) – unanimous. - Approved with Conditions: Dockets 065125, 108925, 197251, 119825, 119925, 100251, 110125 (no conditions), 110225. - Withdrawn: Docket 1110325 (155 Madison Avenue parking lot) – withdrawn by applicant. - Next Steps: Applicants for approved items with conditions must submit revised materials to staff for administrative approval where specified. The brick painting denial requires the applicant to stop painting and seek rehearing if desired.

The Lakewood Planning Commission convened on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, opening remarks, and deliberation on one conditional use application for a dog grooming business. The commission voted unanimously to approve the application with conditions tied to a forthcoming code amendment. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the October 2, 2025, meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote (motion by Nicholas LePoint, seconded; all ayes, no nays). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Conditional Use – Docket No. 11-33-25 (1384 Bonnieview Ave., The Velvet Tail): Applicant Mariah Murphy (3654 W. 148th St., Cleveland) requested a conditional use permit to operate a dog grooming business in the C-2 Commercial, Retail district. Murphy testified she has groomed dogs in Lakewood for 11 years, currently works at Petch General Store in Madison, and plans to operate with her daughter only. She described a one-on-one, appointment-only model with no boarding, typical hours Tuesday through Saturday (daytime), and a capacity of 6–10 dogs per day (herself) and up to 5 per day (her daughter). The landlord supports the use. City Planning Staff (Michelle Nochta) noted that the proposed use meets general conditional use standards but that existing code provisions (e.g., off-street parking requirements, prohibition of grooming in structures with residential uses) are inconsistent with modern practice and a city code amendment is being prepared to rectify them. The site had housed grooming businesses previously (The Doghouse in 1990 and another in 2003) without issues. Staff recommended approval with two conditions. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve (Conditional Use): Commissioner Nicholas LePoint moved to approve the conditional use permit with two conditions: 1. The building department shall determine that adequate ventilation, odor, and noise control measures are in place. 2. A forthcoming code amendment (to be considered by City Council and return to the Commission) addressing the arbitrary and inconsistent code sections must be enacted. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously by voice vote (all ayes). - Next Steps: The applicant may proceed upon meeting the building department conditions and the anticipated code amendment. The meeting adjourned at 6:16 p.m.