Public Meetings - Lakewood, Ohio

The Committee of the Whole met on August 4, 2025, to review and discuss two ordinances related to the redevelopment of the former Lakewood Hospital site (approximately 5.7 acres). The meeting included a presentation from Planning Director Angela Byington, updates from developer representatives, and council questions. No public comments were made. Both ordinances were referred favorably to full council. Discussion Items - Ordinance 24-2025 – Purchase and Sale Agreement with Belle Ave Partners, LLC - Authorizes the transfer of title to three parcels (314-07-146, 314-07-147, 314-07-148) for $1,500,000. - The purchase price and accrued interest (5% per annum) will be forgiven upon substantial completion of the parking facility, community space, and public parks, with recorded easements ensuring public access. - Conditions precedent to conveyance include: payment of closing costs, simultaneous closing on construction financing, approval of an operations and maintenance plan, completion of rezoning and lot splits, recording of easements/declarations, and planning/architectural board approvals – all of which have been satisfied or are imminent. - Ordinance 25-2025 – Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Establishment - Declares 100% of the improvement to the property as a public purpose and exempts it from real property taxation for 30 years. - Establishes a service payment agreement with the developer for payments in lieu of taxes (PILOTS). - Estimated total PILOTS over 30 years are just under $60 million, with the Lakewood City School District receiving just over $22 million and the project share approximately $37.5 million. - The school compensation agreement (dated December 16, 2024) has been executed; it includes income tax sharing, a 15-year CRA, and a 50% share on permanent income tax. - Project Timeline and Details - Developer representative Brent Sobczak (Casto) stated that groundbreaking is expected approximately 45 days from the meeting (mid-September to early October 2025), with a 26-month construction timeline. - The project includes 298 apartments (20% affordable: 10% at 80% AMI and 10% at 120% AMI), 25,000 sq ft of retail/commercial space, renovation of the Curtis Block, a 567-space parking garage (100 public spaces, 75 for the clinic), public plaza, and two public parks. - Developer equity is approximately $30 million; the TIF is deemed necessary by the developer to make the project financially viable, given the city's requirements for public amenities. - Council Questions - Vice President Baker abstained from discussion and voting on the TIF due to his employment with a property tax fund organization. - Councilman Bullock requested regular project updates (e.g., every 4–8 weeks) from the administration or developer to keep council and the public informed. - Councilwoman Strebig asked about the Curtis Block timeline; it will be in the first 14–16 months. - Councilman Evans asked about affordable housing pricing and the pricing of seven for-sale single-family homes; the developer committed to providing the affordable rent numbers via email. Key Outcomes - Motion to refer Ordinance 24-2025 (Purchase and Sale Agreement) favorably to full council passed with one abstention (Vice President Baker, due to conflict of interest on TIF). All other members voted aye. - Motion to refer Ordinance 25-2025 (TIF) favorably to full council passed with one abstention (Vice President Baker, due to conflict of interest). All other members voted aye. - Both ordinances will proceed to the next regular council meeting for a potential vote. No other business was conducted; the meeting was adjourned.

Note: The agenda and transcript indicate the meeting was held on July 21, 2025, but the provided date is July 18, 2025. This summary uses the provided date as instructed. The meeting was called to order at 7:30 PM with the Pledge of Allegiance, Moment of Silence, and roll call. The minutes of the July 7, 2025 meeting were approved without objection. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the Regular Meeting of July 7, 2025, were approved without reading. Public Comments & Testimony - Robert Organ (resident): Expressed strong support for the Complete Streets ordinance, calling it a process to make streets safer, and thanked council for passing it. - Amy Herberger (Bunts Road resident): Opposed the Bunts Road multimodal path, citing lack of resident input, safety concerns, environmental destruction, and potential property value decreases. She presented a petition with over 1,300 signatures. - Matt Herberger (Bunts Road resident): Raised procedural concerns about notice and public engagement for the Bunts Road project, and urged that complete streets regulations, including e-bike rules, be in place before infrastructure projects. - Alexander Benedict (new Ward 4 resident): Supported the Complete Streets resolution and specifically advocated for protected bike lanes to separate bikes from cars. - Ralph Punell (1223 Madison Ave): Generally supported short-term rental regulation but raised concerns about staffing for enforcement, lack of a local contact, and density of Airbnbs. Suggested annual licensing reviews. - Micah Zekum (resident): Opposed broad regulation of short-term rentals, distinguishing between small-scale operators (renting a spare room) and large investors. Argued that market forces and existing landlord rules should apply. - Gina Vernacchi (resident): Supported regulation of short-term rentals, drawing on her experience as former CEO of Playhouse Square. Emphasized 24/7 responsibility for safety, insurance, and fire code compliance. - Molly Crow (resident): Urged reasonable regulations for short-term rentals, citing repeated disturbances, safety concerns, and lack of guest screening. Asked for occupancy limits, noise control, and a reporting system. - Micah Zekum (second appearance): Opposed the tax increment financing (TIF) for the former Lakewood Hospital site, calling it corporate welfare. Argued that tax revenues have outpaced inflation and that the city has a large fund balance. - Prahelika Reddy (1324 Granger Ave): Asked council to pass a resolution protecting trans rights, noting ongoing attacks. Urged a public meeting on the matter. - Matt (resident): Reiterated urgency for trans rights protections, citing the Trump administration's gutting of services for LGBTQ+ individuals on suicide hotlines. Discussion Items - Complete Streets Ordinance (Substitute Ordinance 16-2025): After a discharge from the Planning Commission and removal of emergency language, the ordinance was adopted. Vice President Baker explained it creates a process for public input on transportation projects, not a specific outcome. Councilmember Bullock clarified that the ordinance does not automatically implement any project but provides a framework for public engagement. - Complete and Active Streets Education & Advisory Board (Substitute Ordinance 17-2025): Adopted after discharge from Planning Commission. The board will consist of members with diverse lived experiences (pedestrians, cyclists, transit users, people with disabilities). President Kepple noted it will work on education, safety, and implementation of the Active Transportation Plan. - Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb) – Communication and Ordinance 23-2025: Councilmembers Bullock and Evans introduced a concept draft ordinance to regulate short-term rentals. The communication outlined problems (nuisance, housing affordability, enforcement) and guiding principles. The ordinance was referred to the Housing, Planning, and Development Committee. Public comment highlighted both support and concerns. - Former Lakewood Hospital Redevelopment: - Sale of Property (Ordinance 24-2025): Authorized the transfer of the former hospital site to Belle Ave Partners, LLC for $1.5 million, with the purchase price to be forgiven upon completion of public improvements. Referred to Committee of the Whole. - Tax Increment Financing (TIF) – Ordinance 25-2025: Established a 30-year, 100% TIF on the increase in assessed value for commercial and multifamily portions, excluding for-sale residential units. The TIF will provide up to $23 million in reimbursement to the developer. Referred to Committee of the Whole. - Transit Feasibility Study: The Iteris study, dated October 1, 2024, was presented. It recommends a contracted on-demand service as the most cost-effective option, with RTA as a potential partner. The study was referred to the Housing, Planning, and Development Committee. - Public Art Master Plan (Resolution 2025-37): Accepted a grant of $83,000 from the Cuyahoga County Planning Commission with a 15% ($14,500) city match. The plan will assess existing public art and create a framework for future projects. Councilmember Evans will sit on the project team. The resolution was adopted. - Sale of Retired Rescue Boat (Resolution 2025-38): Authorized the sale of a 2012 Ribcraft rescue boat to the City of Lorain for $10,000. Fire Chief Fairbanks stated the boat is retired and Lorain has a dire need after two drowning incidents. The resolution was adopted. - Neighborhood Paramedic Program Update: A request from the Fire Department to present an annual update was referred to the Public Safety Committee. - Liquor Permits: - Aladdin's Natural Eatery: Deferred to allow time for police background check. - EuroGyro at 13429 Madison Ave: Filed without objection. - DJT Industries (Sloan Pub) at 18196 Sloane Ave: Filed without objection. Key Outcomes - Adopted: Substitute Ordinance 16-2025 (Complete Streets), Substitute Ordinance 17-2025 (Complete and Active Streets Advisory Board), Ordinance 21-2025 (Third Quarter Fund Transfers), Resolution 2025-35 (Honoring Baseball Team), Resolution 2025-36 (Thanking Recreation & Education Department), Resolution 2025-37 (Public Art Master Plan Grant), Resolution 2025-38 (Sale of Rescue Boat). - Deferred: Ordinance 22-2025 (Permanent Appropriations) – deferred. - Referred to Committee: Communication and Ordinance 23-2025 (Short-Term Rentals) to Housing, Planning, and Development; Ordinance 24-2025 (Hospital Property Sale) to Committee of the Whole; Ordinance 25-2025 (TIF) to Committee of the Whole; Transit Feasibility Study to Housing, Planning, and Development; Neighborhood Paramedic Program Update to Public Safety Committee. - Filed without Objection: Liquor permits for EuroGyro and DJT Industries. - Announcements: Ward 2 community conversation scheduled for July 22 at 6 PM at the Lakewood Public Library.

The Lakewood City Council Committee of the Whole met on July 18, 2025, to discuss the 2024 Charter Review Commission's recommendations and determine the timeline for placing proposed charter amendments on the ballot. Council approved minutes from previous meetings and heard public comment before reaching consensus on delaying the ballot measures to the November 2026 election. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the July 7, 2025, Committee of the Whole meeting. - Approved minutes of the July 14, 2025, Committee of the Whole meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Bindle (1212 Hathaway) expressed support for the council's careful approach, stating he would rather see things done correctly than hastily. He thanked council for taking time to educate the public and ensure success for initiatives like ranked choice voting. Discussion Items - Council President Sarah Kepple outlined the five charter amendment recommendations from the Charter Review Commission: salaries, vacancy process, ranked choice voting, ward redistricting, and enactment of ordinances and resolutions. She noted that the law department had begun drafting ordinances. - Kepple proposed delaying the ballot measures to the November 2026 election cycle, citing the need for more time to educate the public, especially on ranked choice voting, and because the changes would not affect municipal elections until 2027. She also noted that redistricting would occur after the next census, so timing was flexible. - Council members generally supported the delay. Councilwoman Cindy Strebig suggested the ministerial reform (enactment of ordinances) could be a low-hanging fruit for sooner action, but did not press for it. - Director Vargo provided research on ranked choice voting implementation, citing Benton County, Oregon, where even after charter amendment, it took 3–4 years before the first election using the system due to public education and software upgrades. This supported the council's decision to deliberate further. - Councilwoman Angelina Hamilton Steiner asked about the process for moving forward, suggesting council members could take leads on specific amendments. Council President Kepple and others discussed using Committee of the Whole for all seven members to deliberate, or referring items to the Rules and Ordinances Committee. Councilwoman Cindy Marx emphasized the importance of public meetings and education. - Vice President Kyle Baker stressed showing respect for the Charter Review Commission's work by fully vetting each proposal on the floor before deciding on ballot placement. - Councilwoman Hamilton Steiner clarified that the delay is not a sign of opposition to ranked choice voting, but a prudent step to ensure successful implementation, as even a 2025 passage would still require years of preparation. - Council President Kepple indicated that the remainder of 2025 will be focused on City Hall and budget matters, so discussion of the charter amendments will likely resume in early 2026. Key Outcomes - Council decided not to place the charter amendments on the November 2025 ballot. Instead, they will continue deliberation through the Committee of the Whole and aim for the November 2026 election. - The ministerial amendment regarding enactment of ordinances and resolutions may be considered separately but will likely be combined with the others. - Council will use the additional time for public education and to refine the proposals. - Next steps: Continue discussion in Committee of the Whole, likely in early 2026, after the budget season.

The City of Lakewood Board of Zoning Appeals met on July 17, 2025, at 11:30 AM to consider two variance requests. The board approved both variances unanimously and handled routine administrative items. Consent Calendar - Roll call was taken; members present: Jillian Bellino, Matt Markling, Jeffrey Pigett, Anthony Santiago. Michael Alexander was excused by motion. - Minutes of the May 15, 2025 meeting (the June meeting was canceled) were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Docket 07-11-25 (1649 Bell Avenue): Christopher French, co-owner of adjacent property at 1645 Bell Avenue, spoke in public comment. He expressed concern about the proposed increase in deck size from 80 to 170 square feet and questioned the necessity of the larger deck for gardening, suggesting container gardening could be done elsewhere. He noted a lack of communication with the applicant and asked about the future of an existing fence and tree limbs. The applicant, Jason Height, responded that part of the fence would be removed and that the deck would be used for general outdoor living, not solely gardening. - No public comment was received or made for docket 07-12-25 (12984 Lake Avenue). Discussion Items New Business – Docket 07-11-25: 1649 Bell Avenue - Applicant Jason Height, owner of the property, presented a proposal to add a second-story unroofed patio deck (170 sq ft) as part of a larger addition to create a mother-in-law suite for aging in place. The existing 80 sq ft deck would be removed. The only variance required was for a second-story unroofed deck, as all other zoning requirements were met. City staff (Ms. Nocta) noted that the board has approved similar decks in the past with no negative consequences. The board discussed the deck's size, its relation to adjacent properties, and the location of an air conditioner. The applicant clarified the air conditioner would remain within the foundation line. New Business – Docket 07-12-25: 12984 Lake Avenue - Applicant Stephen Percy requested a variance for a driveway gate (5 to 6 feet high, black wrought iron) in the front yard. The property features a historic stone wall; the gate would be placed adjacent to the wall without attachment. The Architectural Board of Review had already approved the gate's design. City staff confirmed the city has an easement for future sewer infrastructure and has no objection to the gate. No public comment was received. Key Outcomes - Motion to excuse Michael Alexander passed. - Motion to approve the May 15, 2025 minutes passed. - Motion to approve the variance for docket 07-11-25 (1649 Bell Avenue) as proposed passed unanimously (4-0). - Motion to approve the variance for docket 07-12-25 (12984 Lake Avenue) as proposed passed unanimously (4-0). - The meeting was adjourned.

The Finance Committee met on July 21, 2025, at 6:30 PM in Lakewood City Hall. All committee and council members were present. The committee approved the minutes from the May 5, 2025 meeting, discussed Ordinance 21-2025 authorizing third-quarter fund transfers, and received an extensive update from Assistant Director David Baas on the Winterhurst Ice Arena capital projects. The meeting lasted approximately one hour. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the May 5, 2025 Finance Committee meeting were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Ordinance 21-2025 – Third Quarter Fund Transfers: Finance Director Mahoney explained that the ordinance authorizes transfers already approved in the 2025 budget, including $325,000 from the General Fund to the Office on Aging, $100,000 to Winterhurst, $500,000 from the Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements Fund to the Debt Service Fund, and $325,000 between WWTP funds. The ordinance is an emergency measure requiring two-thirds council approval. Council members clarified that these transfers are routine accounting for debt service payments. The committee recommended the ordinance to full council for adoption. - Winterhurst Capital Projects Update: Assistant Director David Baas presented a comprehensive update on the Winterhurst Ice Arena capital plan, which began in 2023 after the city transitioned to a management services model with Lakewood Community ICE. Key points included: - Completed Work: Ice plant replacement ($2.1M), mechanical room renovation, and new scoreboards (funded by NOPEC). - Current Project (2025-2026): Locker room and rink space renovation ($4.2M) to reconfigure 50-year-old locker rooms, add ADA-accessible spectator stands, repair frost heaving, and create an indoor off-ice training space (5,500 sq ft on second floor). The project is phased to keep rinks operational. - Future Work: HVAC replacement ($1.2M) and metal roof maintenance are planned for 2026. - Programming Success: Learn-to-skate registrations nearly doubled; Mini Monsters program (with Cleveland Monsters) exceeded its 60-kid cap and expanded to Cleveland Heights. Public open skates are scheduled regularly. - Financials: Operating profit for 2024 was $144,000; through June 2025, a $19,000 deficit was reported due to a spring shutdown for floor repairs, but revenues are expected to recover with summer programming. - Council Feedback: Questions focused on marketing to Lakewood residents, economic barriers to hockey participation, the need for non-traditional public art on the new exterior, and the potential for single-use or family restrooms. Councilmembers noted opportunities for better coordination with Lakewood Recreation for marketing. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 21-2025: The Finance Committee voted unanimously to recommend the ordinance to the full City Council for adoption. The ordinance requires a two-thirds vote for emergency effectiveness. - Winterhurst Update: No formal action was taken; the presentation was for informational purposes. The committee expressed support for the project and encouraged continued efforts to increase Lakewood resident participation and improve the facility's exterior aesthetics. - Next Steps: The administration will continue to work with Lakewood Recreation on marketing, explore public art and green features for the addition, and bring the HVAC scope and cost estimate into the 2026 budget cycle.

The Lakewood City Council Committee of the Whole met on July 15, 2025, to consider two ordinances: Ordinance 16-2025 establishing a Complete Streets policy and Ordinance 17-2025 creating a Complete and Active Streets Education & Advisory Board (CASE). The meeting included approval of prior minutes, public comment, detailed discussion of amendments, and unanimous recommendations to forward both ordinances to full Council. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the June 30, 2025 joint meeting of Committee of the Whole and Planning Commission. (Unanimous) Public Comments & Testimony - Emily Lindbergh voiced strong support for both ordinances, arguing that Lakewood's streets have not kept pace with values and that the policies are needed for safe movement for all users, especially children and older adults. She urged immediate passage. - Mr. Organ expressed strong support, noting that while he personally feels safe as a confident cyclist, the ordinance is essential for everyone to be able to run errands without a car. He emphasized the importance of reducing car dependency for short trips. Discussion Items Ordinance 16-2025: Complete Streets - Vice President Baker presented a substitute version incorporating changes from earlier discussions. Key edits included: replacing "citizens" with "resdents and visitors" in whereas clauses; changing "increased property values" to "protected property values"; adding "preserve or add the prevalence of trees"; replacing "recycled materials" with "sustainable"; using "encurage" (not "strongly encouraged") for external agencies; adding Detroit Avenue to Tier 1 trigger list; excludting unexpected CDBG projects from Tier 1; setting a 2027 start date; and including lighting and public art. - Councilman Bullock emphasized tree preservation and questioned contractor oversight. Director Gordon confirmed the city prioritizes preserving trees and carefully selects replacement trees. - A typo (missing "S" on page 2) was corrected. The committee amended reporting language to: "information on any CDBG transportation project that was unexpected or not reasonably foreseeable that was implemented in the past year." All motions passed unanimously. - The committee voted to recommend adoption of the substitute and amended ordinance to full Council. Unanimous. Ordinance 17-2025: Complete and Active Streets Education & Advisory Board (CASE) - President Keppel presented a substitute with updated whereas clauses referencing multiple guiding documents, and changes to board membership: two community members with disability lived experience (varied disabilities encouraged), a public transit user, and an invited school district member. Added that the board shall elect a chair and may adopt its own bylaws. - Director Vargo requested that additional meetings beyond the quarterly minimum require agreement of the public works director. After discussion, the committee voted to strike the language allowing the chair or majority to call meetings, leaving meeting frequency to the board's bylaws. The substitute was adopted, then the language was struck, then the ordinance was recommended to full Council. All unanimous. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 16-2025 (Complete Streets): Recommended to full Council with amendments. Expected to appear on the next regular Council agenda. - Ordinance 17-2025 (CASE Board): Recommended to full Council with amendments.\n- Both votes were unanimous. No public comments were made on the second ordinance.

The meeting was called to order at 10:45 AM. The board reviewed several sign permits, architectural modifications, and a mural proposal. Public comment was heard on multiple items. Notable actions include approval of a porch screening system, approval of a porch addition with conditions, approval of a second-story addition, and denial of a request to paint unpainted brick on a church. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the minutes from the June 12, 2025 meeting unanimously. - Sign Review – Docket 075325 (18206 Detroit Avenue): Approved summary with condition that the new sign be centered over the doors and centered vertically in the fascia, and that window graphics be submitted separately. - Sign Review – Docket 075525 (1542 Detroit Avenue): Approved with conditions that materials for monument sign and main sign letters be submitted for administrative approval, and landscaping for monument signs (excluding wayfinding signs) be submitted for administrative approval. Public Comments & Testimony - Docket 064825 (13345 Madison Avenue): Several letters were read. Some expressed excitement for the improvements but questioned whether the storefront should take more cues from the historic second story in colors, materials, and sizes. - Mural at 1070 Rosalie Avenue: Positive letters noted the mural was a nice addition and backdrop to the vacant lot; questions about paint methods and longevity were raised but addressed by the applicant. - Docket 075825 (1040 Nicholson Avenue): A neighbor spoke in opposition, stating the proposed porch would block her lake view. One letter of strong support from an adjacent neighbor was also entered into the record. - Docket 076025 (1382 Arthur Avenue – Church): Letters submitted expressed understanding of the desire to paint brick but raised concerns about moisture trapping, deterioration, and suggested a breathable sealer instead. A neighbor also raised a concern about rear access (noted as not an issue). Discussion Items - Docket 064725 (1655 Roosevelt Avenue) – Table: Due to lack of communication from the applicant, the board voted unanimously to table the item. - Docket 064825 (13345 Madison Avenue): The applicant arrived late. Discussion focused on the proposed porch and painting of previously painted brick. The board concluded the porch design was appropriate and proportionate. The applicant confirmed only previously painted brick would be repainted, matching the existing color. A vertical metal channel or trim was requested to provide a visual break between different materials on the facade. The motion to approve with these conditions passed unanimously. - Mural at 1070 Rosalie Avenue (Docket 065125 – originally tabled): The applicant described research and revisions. The board noted unique circumstances allowing painting of masonry (area had a previous attached building). Approved with condition to remove any existing non-functional flashing in the area to be painted. Vote unanimous. - Docket 065125 (1070 Rosalie Avenue) – Second item?: Actually the mural was under a different docket number? The transcript says "Next up is docket number 065125 for 1070 Rosalie Avenue. This applicant also requested a deferral. I would also suggest a table." That item was tabled. The mural earlier was for a different location? Re-reading: The mural discussion occurred after the approval of 064825. The chair said "Thank you. Missed you last week..." referring to a different applicant. Then "Next up is docket number 065125 for 1070 Rosalie Avenue." That item was tabled. So the mural was part of 064825? No. There is confusion. Based on the transcript flow: After approving 064825, the chair thanks someone (likely mural applicant). Then says "Next up is docket number 065125 for 1070 Rosalie Avenue" – which was tabled. Therefore, the mural approval was actually for a different docket? The agenda missing makes it unclear. Given the instruction to note discrepancies, I will report the sequence as described in the transcript. - Sign Review – Docket 075625 (15719 Detroit Avenue): Withdrawn by the applicant. - Docket 075725 (2193 Lakeland Avenue – Porch Screening): The applicant described screening behind existing railing. Board expressed support as long as the screen could be removable to allow the porch to return to original character. Approved with condition that screen panels sit behind the existing railing. Unanimous. - Docket 075825 (1040 Nicholson Avenue – Porch Addition): Discussion included concerns from a neighbor about view obstruction. The board noted the porch met zoning setbacks and was within property rights. The applicant agreed to provide cut sheets for the railing. Approved with condition that railing specifications match the provided cut sheets. Vote: 4 in favor, 1 opposed (the chair? Actually "All those in favor? I all those opposed. Thank you." – one opposed, likely from the neighbor's comments). Motion passed. - Docket 075925 (1515 Wayne Avenue – Second Story Addition): The applicant confirmed cedar siding to match existing house, repainted to match, and chimney raised. Board found the addition fitting. Approved with conditions: second story roofline maintained along full length of dormer to match existing, new cedar siding and color to match existing, windows to match existing. Unanimous. - Docket 076025 (1382 Arthur Avenue – Church Painting): Extensive discussion about painting previously unpainted red brick. Board policy discourages painting unpainted brick. The applicant proposed painting the entire addition (including red brick) to improve cohesion. Board suggested repainting only the already-painted white brick with a different color (e.g., smokehouse) to bridge the original cream and red brick. The board denied the application to paint the unpainted brick, citing irreversibility and the good condition of the red brick. Motion to deny passed. The board noted that repainting the already-painted brick does not require their approval. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved with conditions. - Docket 064725 (1655 Roosevelt Ave): Tabled. - Docket 064825 (13345 Madison Ave): Approved (5-0). - Mural at 1070 Rosalie Ave (docket uncertain): Approved with condition to remove existing flashing. - Docket 065125 (1070 Rosalie Ave): Tabled as requested. - Docket 075625 (15719 Detroit Ave): Withdrawn. - Docket 075725 (2193 Lakeland Ave): Approved (5-0). - Docket 075825 (1040 Nicholson Ave): Approved (4-1). - Docket 075925 (1515 Wayne Ave): Approved (5-0). - Docket 076025 (1382 Arthur Ave): Denied application to paint unpainted brick (5-0). Repainting of already painted brick does not require board approval. - Meeting adjourned.

The Lakewood Planning Commission met on July 8, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Auditorium at 12650 Detroit Avenue, following a 5:30 p.m. pre-review meeting. The sole docket item was a parking plan review for Neighborhood Pediatrics at 16024 Madison Avenue, located in the C2 Commercial, General Retail district. The Commission approved the application with conditions and adjourned at 6:17 p.m. Consent Calendar - The Commission excused the absence of Vice Chair McDermott. The motion was made, seconded, and approved unanimously. - The minutes of the June 5, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously with no discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public attended. The Commission waived the public comment period because only the applicant was present. Discussion Items - Docket No. 07-25-25 — 16024 Madison Ave. Michael Daso of Daso Properties, the property owner, requested review and approval of a parking lot plan for the former Lothair Center/Senior Citizen Center, which has been vacant and is in disrepair. He noted the existing pavement lines have deteriorated and estimated the lot currently has about 20 to 22 spaces. The proposal would repave and reconfigure the lot to provide 23 off-street spaces. The applicant originally included three on-street spaces, but the city advised those could not be counted because the area is marked as a loading zone. Mr. Daso asked that the plan be approved with the 23 on-site spaces. - City staff review. Staff reported the office use is 12,906 square feet, which requires a minimum of 26 off-street parking spaces under Chapter 1143. The plan provides 23 spaces. Staff identified 38 public off-street spaces in municipal lot number nine, located approximately 800 feet from the property entrance, within the 1,000-foot pedestrian route allowance that can be credited under the exceptions to required minimums. Given that exception and the improvement from roughly 22 to 23 spaces, staff stated no objection to approval, subject to commission consideration and possible conditions. - Northland construction coordination. Staff noted the Northland water main project is scheduled from July 2025 to July 2026 and will include curb bump-outs and other changes. Coordination with city engineering will be needed because the work may affect parking and markings near the site. - Applicant operations testimony. Amy Daso, owner of Neighborhood Pediatrics, stated the practice will occupy most of the building, employs about 12 to 15 people daily, sees roughly 5 to 8 patient units per appointment slot, and operates approximately 8 a.m. to 5 or 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. She also stated that up to 40% of patients are from Lakewood and that many walk or ride bikes. - Commission discussion on curb cuts. A commissioner asked that the un-dimensioned curb cut on Northland be limited to a maximum 16-foot width to match the dimensioned 16-foot curb cut on Madison, with matching landscaping. City staff advised that the city will replace the curb and apron as part of the Northland project at city cost, likely in spring 2026, and recommended the applicant not do work on that apron until after April 2026 while coordinating with the city. Key Outcomes - The Commission approved Docket No. 07-25-25 with conditions. The applicant must coordinate with the City of Lakewood on the pending Northland work, limit the Northland curb cut to a 16-foot maximum width, match the landscaping, and clearly define roles and responsibilities for the work elements. The motion was seconded, all commissioners voted in favor, and no opposition was voiced. The meeting was adjourned at 6:17 p.m.

The Lakewood Planning Commission held a pre-review meeting on July 8, 2025, to discuss a parking plan review for Neighborhood Pediatrics LLC at 16024 Madison Avenue. The applicant, Michael Daso of Daso Properties, is seeking approval for a parking lot as part of the conversion of the former Lothher Center. The meeting was an administrative pre-review; no formal vote was taken. Discussion Items - Parking Plan Review (Docket No. 07-25-25): The applicant proposed 23 off-street parking spaces, but the code requires 26 spaces based on the building's 12,900 square feet. The existing lot has 22 spaces (a discrepancy exists: the applicant originally depicted 20 spaces, but staff diagram shows 22). The proposal adds one additional space. On-street parking on Northland Avenue cannot be counted because code requires off-street spaces. The applicant identified several mitigating factors for an exception: a municipal lot at Caribbean Road (38 public spaces within 800–1,000 feet), transit access (the 25 bus line on Madison), and limited available surface parking nearby. The site currently has a loading zone on Northland, which may be removed as part of a planned water main project that will also install curb bump-outs, further complicating on-street parking. - Existing Conditions: The lot has one entrance off Northland and an exit onto Madison. The proposed layout would reverse the flow (entrance from Madison, exit onto Northland). Staff noted the proposed lot configuration would align with the new striping. Key Outcomes - No decision was made; this was a pre-review meeting. Staff indicated they saw no reason to deny the parking plan, given the proposed improvements (22 to 23 spaces) and the availability of public parking within 1,000 feet. The applicant will need to formally address the shortfall and any code exceptions at the regular Planning Commission meeting scheduled for later that evening (6:00 PM).