Public Meetings - Lakewood, Ohio

Note: The meeting agenda and transcript indicate the meeting occurred on November 10, 2025, but the provided meeting date is November 5, 2025. This summary uses the provided date as instructed. The special meeting was called to order at 8:21 PM by Acting President Baker via video conference due to Councilman Bullock's illness. The sole agenda item was a communication from Planning Director Byington regarding a Cuyahoga County Community Development Supplemental Grant for the Madison Park Futsal Court Renovation Project, followed by consideration of Resolution 2025-69. Communication from Planning Director Byington - Director Byington presented the grant request: the city seeks $50,000 in competitive grant funding (from county casino tax revenue) to support an estimated $300,000 renovation of the futsal courts at Madison Park. - The courts were originally tennis courts converted to futsal seven years ago and are heavily used by recreation programs and open play. The project is a priority in the Madison Park Master Plan, adopted by Council. - A required public meeting was held on October 21, 2025, at Madison Park. - The grant application was submitted on November 6, 2025, with legislation due by November 14, 2025. The late release of the grant application compressed the timeline. - The city has successfully received this grant for the last two years (Birdtown Connector project and Madison Park playground). Discussion on Resolution 2025-69 - Councilperson Streibig attended the October 21 public meeting, praised the skills of the young players, and expressed strong support for the project. - Councilperson Marks expressed full support for any improvements at Madison Park. - No other council members or administration offered comments. Key Outcomes - Communication received and filed unanimously by voice vote, with Councilman Bullock also voting aye. - Resolution 2025-69 was approved unanimously (all seven members voting aye, including Councilman Bullock via video conference). The resolution authorizes the Mayor or Planning Director to apply for the $50,000 grant and to enter into necessary agreements. It was declared an emergency measure to take effect immediately upon passage, as required by the grant timeline.

The Health & Human Services Committee of Lakewood City Council met on November 5, 2025, to consider Resolution 2025-54, renewing a two-year agreement with the Cuyahoga County Board of Health for public health services. The meeting featured a detailed presentation by county representatives on services, funding, and community engagement, followed by committee discussion and a unanimous vote to forward the resolution to full council for approval. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes of the May 5, 2025 Health & Human Services Committee meeting was moved and seconded, and passed unanimously. - Communication from Law Director Vargo regarding the renewal agreement with the County Board of Health was acknowledged. Discussion Items - Resolution 2025-54 – Public Health Services Agreement (2026–2027): The resolution authorizes the Mayor to enter into a two‑year agreement with the District Advisory Council of Cuyahoga County (Ohio General Health District) for the provision of public health services. The cost is not to exceed $456,440 for calendar year 2026 (per capita rate $8.96) and $511,458 for 2027 (per capita rate $10.04). The current agreement expires December 31, 2025. - Presentation by Cuyahoga County Board of Health: Suzanne Rush (Director of External Affairs), John Mills (Legal Counsel), and Matt Johnson (Director of Environmental Public Health) described the services provided to Lakewood, including food protection, water/sanitation, district sanitation, population health, clinical services, immunizations, and epidemiology. Key statistics: In 2024, Lakewood’s clinic served 79 patients (122 visits); in 2025, 67 patients (106 visits). Lead remediation over five years: approximately $450,000 spent, 25 units addressed (5 with hazard control orders). The county employs about 188 staff, with three full‑time positions dedicated to Lakewood (food, water, and district sanitarians). The board highlighted new initiatives: a mobile medical unit for treatment and education, a speaker’s bureau, a re‑accreditation process, and improved communication strategies. They also provided resources on bed bug detection, spotted lanternflies, and lead safety. - Committee Questions and Comments: - Councilwoman Strebig asked for clarification on the “District Advisory Council” vs. “Board of Health.” Rush explained the DAC is the governing body that approves revenue agreements; the Board of Health is the operational entity. - Councilwoman Steiner inquired about health outcomes specific to Lakewood. Rush noted that data is currently countywide but a community‑level report card is planned for late 2026/early 2027. - Steiner noted Lakewood’s own community health needs assessment and racial equity plan; Rush offered to connect the county’s equity director and CHNA experts. - Councilwoman Marx suggested better outreach via the Lakewood Observer and the Community Service Center. Rush confirmed the county is planning a major media buy and welcomed partnerships. - Steiner also mentioned opportunities for the mobile medical unit at Ward 4 block parties (Madison Court Community Coalition). - Councilwoman Hamilton Steiner spoke about connecting with LakewoodAlive and the YMCA for bed bug and health programs. - The committee expressed appreciation for the county’s services, noting their efficiency and the value of the collaboration. Key Outcomes - Motion to Forward: Councilwoman Marx moved to forward Resolution 2025-54 favorably to full council; Councilwoman Strebig seconded. The motion passed by voice vote with all ayes (no opposition noted). - Next Steps: Resolution 2025-54 will be considered by the full Lakewood City Council at a future meeting. The committee directed staff to connect the county’s outreach team with Lakewood’s CHAT (Community Health Action Team) and anti‑racism task force. - Meeting Adjourned: The committee closed the meeting following the vote.

The Finance Committee of the Lakewood City Council met on November 5, 2025, to consider two resolutions: one approving the FY26 HUD Annual Action Plan and federal funding allocations recommended by the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), and another authorizing a fourth amendment to the lease with the Lakewood Child Care Center. The meeting included a presentation from Planning and Development staff, discussion of funding estimates, and votes on both items. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the October 27, 2025 Finance Committee meeting were approved without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - FY26 HUD Annual Action Plan (Resolution 2025-66): Dan Wyman, Development Officer, presented the CAC’s recommended allocations for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) funds. Estimated awards were set at $1,750,000 (CDBG) and $160,000 (ESG), a conservative estimate due to federal budget uncertainty and potential impacts from the government shutdown. Key allocations included $850,000 for street resurfacing, $42,500 for public art (a first-time use of CDBG funds), $75,000 for affordable housing programs (increased from a typical $42,000), and $262,500 total for public services (capped at 15% of the CDBG award). The 20% administration cap of $350,000 was also noted. Council members inquired about affordable housing capacity; Wyman stated that current staffing limits the pace of projects, but that the $75,000 allocation combined with program income and separate HOME funds allows the city to maintain an elevated project volume. Co-chair Claire Foley of the CAC expressed that committee members desire deeper engagement in the process beyond the four fall meetings, though no specific changes were proposed. The resolution was recommended to full council. - Lakewood Child Care Center Lease Amendment (Resolution 2025-65): The resolution authorizes a fourth amendment to the lease for the first floor of the Community Health Center at 1450 Belle Avenue. Key terms include: up to five additional five-year renewal options starting after the current lease ends in 2030; a tenant improvement allowance beginning at $15,000 per year in 2027 and escalating over time (to $20,000 in 2031–2035, $25,000 in 2036–2040, and $30,000 from 2041 onward); and the ability to carry over unused allowance up to five times the current annual amount. Director Angela Byington explained that the amendment provides long-term stability for the child care center, enabling investments such as expanding infant care capacity, interior renovations, and potential future use of the vacant second floor. Councilman Bullock recused himself from voting on the typographical correction (changing “deeded” to “deemed”) due to his wife’s board membership, but supported the resolution overall, noting the center’s five-star rating and community importance. The committee approved the typo correction (2–0–1) and then recommended the resolution for full adoption. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2025-66 (FY26 HUD Action Plan) was recommended for adoption by the full council. A motion was made, seconded, and passed unanimously (voice vote). - Resolution 2025-65 (Child Care Center Lease Amendment) was amended to correct a typo in Section 2 (changing “deeded” to “deemed”). The amendment passed with two votes in favor and one abstention (Bullock). The amended resolution was then recommended for adoption, passing with a majority voice vote; Bullock abstained. - The committee adjourned to a special meeting immediately following.

The Housing, Planning, & Development Committee of Lakewood City Council met on November 5, 2025, at 6:45 p.m. in the Auditorium at City Hall. Chair Kyle Baker presided. The committee approved the minutes of the October 27, 2025 meeting and received a detailed presentation from LakewoodAlive Executive Director Ian Andrews and Operations Manager Joe Higgins on the organization's housing outreach and small business support programs. Council members engaged in discussion and expressed strong support for LakewoodAlive's work. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the October 27, 2025 Housing, Planning, & Development Committee meeting were approved unanimously by voice vote (all present in favor, including Councilman Bullock via video conference). Discussion Items - LakewoodAlive Update (Referred from Council): Chair Baker introduced the item, noting his role as ex-officio member of the LakewoodAlive Board. Ian Andrews presented an overview of LakewoodAlive's mission, three pillars (housing outreach, thriving commercial corridors, and community engagement), and detailed sub-programs. - Housing Outreach Program: Started in 2009. In the CDBG reporting period, 417 unduplicated households were served; 88% were low-moderate income, 60% female, and 72% elderly. Key sub-programs include Paint Lakewood (CDBG-funded with sliding scale for low-income seniors), bed bug inspection (city's agent), Project Safe Senior Aging-in-Place Assessments (27 full assessments in FY25), hoarding assistance, and volunteer projects. Ian highlighted challenges: aging housing stock (80% over 90 years old), lack of senior affordable housing, and the need for mental health support for hoarding cases. Specific stories included a hoarding house on Broccoli, a senior (Mrs. M, Ward 2) whose porch, electrical panel, furnace, and hot water tank were replaced via partnership with the city’s Division of Community Development (over $240,000 in improvements across 12 projects), and a senior bed program funded privately ($500 per bed). - Small Business Support Program: Focused on thriving commercial corridors. Programs include sign grants (50% up to $2,500; $5,500 granted in calendar year 2025 for 6 businesses), fiscal sponsorship of four merchant associations, an available commercial properties page (boots-on-the-ground tracking), startup evaluations, lease review (partnering with Legal Aid), and partnerships with the Hispanic Business Alliance, ECDI, and others. Examples included Despina (Greek immigrant who opened during COVID), Flame and Fable (expanded with help from LakewoodAlive and the city), and Lakewood Black Label (owner found space via the properties page). Challenges included derelict commercial property owners, lack of emergency funding, and recurring need for business startup guidance. - Council Member Responses: - Councilwoman Hamilton Steiner expressed that the presented challenges are unacceptable and called for the community to figure out solutions without relying on state or federal government. - Councilwoman Marx voiced strong support for LakewoodAlive, thanking the team for exposing issues often unseen, and agreed more must be done for seniors. - Councilwoman Strebig noted that garage and driveway issues seem financial but hoarding is a mental health problem; she asked Director Vargo about enforcement. Director Vargo explained the difficulty of gaining access to homes due to privacy limits, and that hoarding often only surfaces after a disaster or death. - Councilman Bullock (via video) thanked Ian and Joe, emphasized that LakewoodAlive can do things the city cannot (e.g., helping clients call contractors), and affirmed the importance of maintaining affordability and socioeconomic diversity. - Councilman Evans praised the city-LakewoodAlive relationship as the “gold standard” and stated that every dollar invested yields more for the community. - Chair Baker noted that LakewoodAlive acts as a force multiplier, especially in combination with the city’s housing inspection, fire department paramedic program, and community relations; he also highlighted that low-moderate income census tracts are scattered throughout the city, not just the east end. Key Outcomes - Motion to Receive and File: Chair Baker made a motion to receive and file the communication from LakewoodAlive. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously by voice vote. - Meeting Adjourned: The meeting was adjourned. The chair of the Finance Committee will decide when to call its meeting.

The Lakewood City Council held its regular meeting on November 3, 2025, in Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting covered a range of items including reports from committees, approval of resolutions, discussion of a citywide composting program, renewal of the NOPEC green energy aggregation program, authorization for a fire engine purchase, lease amendments for the Lakewood Child Care Center, and fiscal year 2026 HUD funding plans. Public comment was heard on both the composting initiative and concerns about the Bunts Road shared-use path project. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the October 20, 2025 regular meeting approved without reading. - Resolutions 2025-62 and 2025-63 recognizing Lakewood residents Dorcas Russo and Joseph Tomino for Legal Aid Society of Cleveland awards were adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2025-61 ratifying the Fall 2025 slate of Lakewood Youth Council nominees was adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2025-67 approving the City’s notice to NOPEC to elect the Green Community Choice Program for electricity aggregation starting June 2026 was adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2025-64 authorizing the purchase of a fire engine for 2028 delivery (budgeted $1.5 million) was adopted after discussion. - Liquor permit applications for Fika Café (16203 Hilliard Rd.) and Citizens Eatery (14600 Detroit Ave.) were filed without objection. - The October 2025 Finance Department vendor report was received and filed. Public Comments & Testimony Composting Program Support (during Discussion Items): - Harry Lader (Ward 2 resident) expressed support for the citywide composting resolution, noting 75 documented signatures from all wards and citing successes in Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights, and other communities. He reported that Lakewood City Schools have already diverted more than 32,000 pounds of food waste through composting. - Bonnie Sykes (Ward 2, Lakewood Composting Committee) emphasized that current drop-off sites require a monthly fee, which is a barrier, and called for free, expanded drop-off locations across all wards. - Catherine Zimnik (Ward 3, Lakewood Composting Committee) thanked council and offered continued volunteer support. She suggested leveraging existing salt bin locations at Kaufman Cove and the Lakewood Dog Park for compost bins. Bunts Road Shared-Use Path (during formal Public Comment period): - Kim (Ward resident) raised concerns about the path project, asking about utility box placement, closure of a Giant Eagle driveway, and the need for traffic calming, tree buffers, and a ban on e‑bikes. She stated that realtors predict a 15% decrease in home values and asked council to improve the project’s design. Discussion Items Housing, Planning & Development Committee Report: Vice President Baker reported on the October 27 committee meeting. Updates included the Lakewood zoning refresh (an external consultant is evaluating and will recommend a complete code update) and the sale of 1472 Belle Avenue as an affordable housing unit with income-restricted buyer requirements. The committee also discussed a substitute ordinance regarding front yard planting regulations (referred to Keep Lakewood Beautiful for input). Finance Committee Report: Committee chair reported on the October 27 meeting. The committee began discussion of the council budget priorities process, setting a November 17 deadline (with administration requesting November 10) for council members to submit proposals using a standardized form. A chart of past spending was provided. The committee also began a discussion on property taxes, including state-level evaluation, the importance of property taxes for city debt and infrastructure, and recognition that many Lakewood residents are feeling the impact of property valuation increases over the last six years. Rules & Ordinances Committee Report: Councilmember Hamilton Steiner reported that the committee met November 3 with the Youth Council to discuss their updated bylaws. The bylaws were favorably deferred back to full council pending written substitute amendments. Composting Program (Items 12 & 13): Councilmembers Hamilton Steiner, Bullock, and Marks introduced a communication and resolution (2025-68) to authorize the mayor to negotiate a contract with a composting provider for a citywide program. The communication outlined goals from the adopted climate action plan: 95% organic material diversion by 2030 and 50% reduction in food waste generation. The resolution was referred to the Finance Committee for further study. NOPEC Green Community Choice Program (Items 14 & 15): Mayor George and Councilmember Bullock presented the resolution to renew participation in NOPEC’s aggregation program and elect the Green Community Choice option, which defaults to 100% clean power. Councilmember Bullock noted that NOPEC is a nonprofit that returns dividends to the community, previously used for electric vehicle chargers and street lighting upgrades. The program saves residents money compared to the utility’s default offer and requires no upfront investment. The resolution was adopted without referral. Fire Engine Purchase (Items 18 & 19): Fire Chief Fairbanks requested authorization to contract with Sotfin Corporation for a new fire engine (budgeted $1.5 million) with a 2028 delivery. Three quotes were received; Sotfin was the only bidder meeting the timeline. The chief explained that a 15-year front-line service life plus 10 years as a reserve vehicle is standard. Costs have risen significantly (similar trucks were $500,000 cheaper five years ago). The discussion acknowledged the need to adjust future capital planning for price inflation. The resolution was adopted. Lakewood Child Care Center Lease Amendment (Items 20 & 21): Planning Director Byington presented a proposal for a fourth amendment to the lease at 1450 Belle Avenue. The amendment would allow the Child Care Center to extend the term in five-year increments (up to five extensions) and provide an escalating tenant improvement allowance (starting at $15,000 in 2027) with a carryover cap of five times the current allowance. The resolution was referred to the Finance Committee. FY26 HUD Action Plan (Items 22 & 23): Director Byington submitted the FY26 Annual Action Plan and Citizens Advisory Committee recommendations, based on estimated CDBG ($575,000) and ESG ($160,000) awards. The resolution was referred to the Finance Committee. Reports from Councilmember Strebig: - Lakewood Animal Safety & Welfare Advisory Board (Oct. 15): Reported on the new animal shelter grant opening (Oct. 23), updated animal statistics, ongoing cat overpopulation at Davis Court, and a pet food drive (Nov. 15, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Marks Plaza pocket park) to meet a need of 12,000 pounds of animal food per month. A draft TNR ordinance was reviewed with a specialist. - Lakewood Youth Council (Oct. 23): Welcomed four new members; discussed flashing traffic light timing, a draft communication on a circulator bus, and community festival suggestions (better sidewalks, skate park, more dog parks, place to hang out, etc.). The council began a conversation about teen hangout spaces and plans to connect with the Mental Health Committee. Key Outcomes - Substitute Ordinance 28-2025 (sale of 1472 Belle Ave): Suspended rules and adopted after roll call vote (all present voting yes). The property will be marketed for 180 days; council will receive a report within 45 days of closing on buyer and sale price. - Resolution 2025-60 (Youth Council Bylaws): Deferred pending written substitute amendments from the Rules & Ordinances Committee. - Resolution 2025-41 (Tree Board Appointment): Deferred to allow Councilmember Evans to present interview results at the next full council meeting. - Composting Resolution 2025-68: Referred to the Finance Committee. - Lakewood Child Care Lease Resolution 2025-65: Referred to the Finance Committee for review at the November 10 meeting. - FY26 HUD Action Plan Resolution 2025-66: Referred to the Finance Committee. - All other resolutions and communications were adopted, received, or filed as noted above.

The Rules & Ordinances Committee met on October 30, 2025, at 3:00 PM UTC to consider Resolution 2025-60, approving amended bylaws for the Lakewood Youth Council. Committee members Cindy Marx, Bryan Evans, and Chair Angelina Hamilton Steiner attended, joined by Youth Council members and their advisor, along with Councilwoman Cindy Strebig, the Youth Council liaison. The committee unanimously approved the meeting minutes from October 20, 2025, and voted to refer Resolution 2025-60 to full Council with amendments. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the October 20, 2025, meeting of the Rules & Ordinances Committee (motion, second, passed). Discussion Items - Resolution 2025-60 – Amended Bylaws of the Lakewood Youth Council - A Youth Council representative presented a detailed overview of proposed amendments across multiple articles: - Article II, Section 4: Relaxed strict attendance rules by replacing automatic removal with a review process after unexcused absences, allowing flexibility for busy student schedules. - Article II, Section 6: Extended the application and induction timeline to “the first regularly scheduled meeting after interviews have been conducted” instead of a fixed first meeting. - Article III, Section 1: Added a process for filling vacant officer positions mid-year. - Article III, Section 2: Clarified meeting start time (when quorum is present rather than “top of the hour”) and procedures if all officers are absent (Sections 2D, 2G). - Article IV, Section 4: Redefined quorum as a simple majority of active members (not a fixed number of eight) and adjusted procedural language. - Article IV, Section 5: Updated advisor reference from “Lakewood Community Relations Advisory Commission” to “any City Council member” to reflect current practice. - Article V, Sections 1 and 2: Added a method to dissolve standing committees and streamlined selection of special committee chairs. - Committee members praised the Youth Council’s thorough work. - Councilwoman Strebig suggested several refinements: - Use “will” instead of “should” for attendance warnings to make policies more definitive. - Correct indentation and lettering issues in Article II, Sections 2 and 3. - In Article IV, Section 4 (a quorum), specify “a simple majority of active members” (mirroring Council’s own rule). - Retain language about striving for consensus (do not change to “shall”). - Minor typographical corrections: “accumulates” → “accumulated” in Article II, Section 4; “role” vs. “roll” in Article IV, Section 4 (e). - The Youth Council agreed to all proposed changes. - After considering process (too many amendments to note orally), the committee made a motion to amend as discussed and to refer the resolution favorably to full Council with the amendments. Key Outcomes - Motion to amend Resolution 2025-60 as discussed – carried. - Motion to refer the amended resolution favorably to full Council – carried. - The Youth Council will incorporate the agreed-upon changes into the document and send it to the Clerk’s office for introduction as a substitute resolution on the next full Council agenda.

The Housing, Planning & Development Committee of Lakewood City Council met on October 22, 2025, at 7:20 PM. Key agenda items included an update on the Zoning Refresh Project, consideration of an ordinance to allow managed natural landscapes, and authorization to sell a rehabilitated city-owned property. The committee voted to recommend approval of the sale ordinance with amendments. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the September 8, 2025 Housing, Planning & Development Committee meeting by a unanimous voice vote. Discussion Items - Lakewood Zoning Refresh Project Update: Assistant Planning Director David Baas presented preliminary drafts of updated zoning district and use standards, marking the midpoint (approximately 50% complete) of the seven-step project. Key topics included: - Proposed new RM2 (Mixed Housing; Moderate Density) district, which is being considered as a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) overlay rather than a map-based rezoning to allow higher density near transit corridors (Detroit and Madison Avenues). - Consolidation of existing multi-dwelling unit districts into a single MD district with adjusted density standards to reflect historic building patterns. - Creation of a new Municipal (M) district for schools, parks, libraries, and other public facilities. - Updates to single-family district lot sizes and frontage to reduce nonconformities; for example, the minimum lot size in the RS1 district would decrease from 14,000 to 9,000 sq ft, reducing nonconformities from 149 to 35 parcels. - Introduction of an Adaptive Reuse Overlay to incentivize repurposing existing buildings. - Discussion of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and drive-through regulations. - Committee members raised concerns about density transitions, neighborhood character, and the balance between zoning changes and property owner expectations. The communication was received and filed. - Ordinance 18-2025 – Front Yard Plantings (Managed Natural Landscapes): The committee retained this ordinance on the docket to allow further input from Keep Lakewood Beautiful and the Building and Law Departments. The goal is to pass the ordinance by the end of 2025 to guide the 2026 growing season. - Ordinance 28-2025 – Authorization to Sell 1472 Belle Avenue: Planning Director Angela Byington presented the request to market and sell the city-owned, rehabilitated single-family home for $209,000 (maximum HUD-imposed sales price) using $437,000 in federal HOME funds. The home must be sold to a household earning less than 80% of Area Median Income. The buyer would receive $10,000 in deferred down payment assistance with a 10-year affordability period. The committee discussed reporting requirements and approved an amendment to require a report to Council within 45 days of closing. Key Outcomes - The communication on the Zoning Refresh Project was received and filed; further updates will be brought to the committee as the ZPAC process continues. - Ordinance 18-2025 (managed natural landscapes) was held over for further review and stakeholder input. - Ordinance 28-2025 (sale of 1472 Belle Avenue) was amended to require a report within 45 days after closing and then recommended to full Council for approval by a voice vote.

Note: The agenda and transcript indicate the meeting was held on Monday, October 27, 2025, but the provided date for this summary is October 22, 2025. This discrepancy is noted per accuracy rules. The Finance Committee convened to approve minutes, receive a property tax explanation from the Finance Director, and discuss Council budget priorities for the 2026 budget. A public comment was heard on composting. No formal votes were taken on the resolution or ordinance on the agenda. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the July 21, 2025 Finance Committee meeting by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Harry Later (Ward 2 resident) spoke in support of including a free, citywide composting program in the 2026 budget. He cited the city's Climate Action Plan goal of 95% organic waste diversion by 2030, existing drop-off locations at Lakewood and Madison Parks, and examples from Shaker Heights and Beechwood. He noted over 56 residents have signed a petition in support. Discussion Items - Property Tax Explanation (Director Mahoney): Director Mahoney presented an updated explainer on property tax allocation, calculation, and the homestead exemption. She noted that 52.55% of property taxes go to schools, 24.35% to the city, and the rest to county, metro parks, and other entities. She explained that the city receives reimbursement from the state for homestead exemptions (about $276,000 in 2025, covering roughly 440 households). Council members discussed the impact of rising property values, the state's role in property tax relief, and the potential for promoting the homestead exemption more broadly. The explainer was accepted into the committee record by motion. - Council Budget Priorities: Chair Bullock reviewed the list of 16 budget priorities identified at Council retreats (using a “bags” allocation system). Director Mahoney provided an administration response indicating which items are already funded or partially funded in the draft 2026 budget. Council members discussed the need for more detailed proposals. It was agreed that council members would submit written descriptions with cost estimates for their priority items using a template, to be compiled by November 17, 2025. - Composting (Councilwoman Steiner): Councilwoman Steiner outlined a proposal to expand the existing composting program to a free, citywide service. She noted that the Climate Action Plan (2022) includes this as a strategy, and that Rust Belt Riders could be a partner. Discussion included potential funding sources and the need for a detailed cost analysis. Key Outcomes - The Finance Committee approved the July 21, 2025 meeting minutes. - Director Mahoney's property tax explainer was formally accepted into the committee record. - Council members will use a standardized worksheet to detail their budget priority proposals, including purpose, scope, and estimated cost, with a deadline of November 17, 2025. - The committee acknowledged the public's support for composting and agreed to consider it as part of the budget process. - No action was taken on S. Resolution 2025-47 (urging state property tax relief) or Ordinance 27-2025 (repealing the Audit Committee); these items remain pending.

Note: The agenda and transcript indicate this meeting occurred on October 20, 2025, but the provided date is October 16, 2025. This summary uses the October 16 date as instructed, while acknowledging the discrepancy. The meeting was called to order at 7:30 PM with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence. Roll call was taken; Councilmember Bullock was absent and his absence was excused unanimously. The minutes of the October 6, 2025 meeting were approved without reading. The agenda was reordered to begin with the Beautiful Home Awards presentation. Consent Calendar The following items were adopted or approved without substantive discussion: - Reading and approval of the October 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous). - Receipt and filing of the Committee of the Whole report from October 13, 2025 (unanimous). - Resolution 2025-42 (substitute) appointing Sean McDermott, Tracy Greenberg, Cody George, and Emily Lindberg as volunteer members to the Complete and Active Streets Education & Advisory Board (CASE) and Vice President Baker as ex-officio non-voting Council liaison. Adopted unanimously. - Receipt and filing of the Public Works & Sustainability Committee report from October 13, 2025. The committee favorably referred three submerged land leases and deferred two at homeowner request. A resolution on enhancing public input for active transportation was deferred for further work. - Resolutions 2025-57, 2025-58, and 2025-59, approving submerged land leases for shore structures at 1040 Erie Cliff Drive, 1041 Forest Cliff Drive, and 1039 Forest Cliff Drive. Each adopted unanimously. - Receipt and filing of the Public Safety Committee report from October 20, 2025. The committee discussed updates to the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) ordinance and a communication from the fire chief regarding a future fire engine purchase. - Substitute Ordinance 20-2025 (animals and fowl, TNR regulations) was deferred for further cleanup. - Receipt and filing of the Rules & Ordinances Committee report from October 20, 2025. The committee favorably referred the cybersecurity policy. - Resolution 2025-53 adopting the City of Lakewood Cybersecurity Policy, as required by ORC §9.64. Adopted unanimously (amended to include Council office reporting language). - Receipt and filing of communication from Public Works Director Gordon regarding a typographical error in Resolution 2025-52. - Resolution 2025-52A correcting the title of the loan application from "2026 Lead Line Replacement Project" to "Bunts Road Lead Line Replacement Project." Adopted unanimously. - The liquor permit for Fika Café, LLC was deferred. Public Comments & Testimony - Matt Bixenstein (2069 Clarence Avenue), representing Friends of Madison Park, expressed strong support for continued investment in Madison Park Master Plan. He highlighted the success of the new Birdtown Connector pathway and urged prioritization of future renovations for futsal courts, the pool, and the playground. Mayor George announced upcoming design and engineering for Madison Pool and playground, aligned with Council's budget priorities. Councilmembers thanked Mr. Bixenstein for his leadership. - Genesis Brown (Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities) provided an update on the 20th anniversary of the agency's last levy. She noted that 351 residents in Lakewood are served, and the levy supports early intervention, therapies, and community grants. She offered to collaborate with the city. - Amy Herberger (resident) spoke in strong opposition to the Bunts Road multimodal plan. She alleged the city spent $1.7 million on a plan originally budgeted at $22 million, criticized the public engagement process as performative and misrepresentative, and claimed 1,400 residents formally objected. She argued the plan would increase traffic hazards, eliminate mature trees, worsen air quality, and reduce livability. She called for a cost-benefit analysis, environmental impact report, and long-term maintenance plan before proceeding. She urged Council to choose safety and transparency. - Kim (neighbor of Amy Herberger) echoed concerns about the Bunts Road planning process, urging the city to walk the corridor with residents before designing. She questioned the safety of e-bikes on sidewalks, requested a push-button crosswalk for senior residents, and asked for better traffic enforcement and signage (e.g., no truck restrictions, no right turn from get-go). She expressed skepticism about the plan's benefits. - Two e-comments were entered into the record without further detail. Discussion Items - City Hall Space Update (Item 12): President Kepple delivered a communication detailing due diligence on four options for addressing space constraints at City Hall: (1) minor addition to west, (2) infill of the "U" (less viable due to sally port), (3) large two-story addition, (4) purchase and renovate 1470 Warren Road, convert existing City Hall to Justice Center, and sell the Annex. A Council working group (Vice President Baker, Councilmember Evans, President Kepple) has been meeting weekly with consultant Chris Panichi (PMC). Weber Murphy Fox has been asked to provide cost estimates for all options. The communication was referred to Committee of the Whole. - Lakewood Youth Council Bylaws Update (Items 13-14): Councilmember Strebig presented a communication summarizing minor updates to the Youth Council bylaws, approved by the Youth Council this summer. The amendments add flexibility and reflect current practices. Resolution 2025-60, approving the amended bylaws, was referred to the Rules & Ordinances Committee, with an invitation for Youth Council members to attend. Key Outcomes - Appointments confirmed: Four volunteer members and one Council liaison appointed to the Complete and Active Streets Education & Advisory Board (CASE). - Cybersecurity Policy adopted: Resolution 2025-53 adopted to comply with state law, effective immediately. - Submerged land leases approved: Three resolutions (2025-57, 58, 59) passed, enabling property owners to apply for leases with ODNR for shore structures. - Loan amendment adopted: Resolution 2025-52A corrected the project title for the Bunts Road Lead Line Replacement loan application. - TNR ordinance deferred: Substitute Ordinance 20-2025 was deferred for further revisions regarding training, registration, unsanitary conditions, and owner responsibility for veterinary costs. - Youth Council bylaws referred: Resolution 2025-60 referred to Rules & Ordinances Committee for review. - City Hall options: The communication was referred to Committee of the Whole; cost estimates from WMF are awaited. - Public comments noted: All public comments on the Bunts Road plan, Madison Park, and Cuyahoga DD will be considered as part of ongoing processes. Announcements - Mayor George announced a public meeting on futsal courts at Madison Park on October 21 at 4:30 PM. - No further business; meeting adjourned.