Public Meetings - Lakewood, Ohio

This Committee of the Whole meeting, held September 23, 2026, focused on First Energy's ongoing failures to provide reliable electricity to Lakewood, recent PUCO corrective actions, the city's legal intervention in a rate case, and First Energy's plans for infrastructure improvements. Council heard from the administration, law department, First Energy representatives, and public commenters. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the July 27, 2026 Committee of the Whole meeting were approved unanimously without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Linda Barley (Lakewood resident): Described experience with a municipally owned utility in Colorado Springs, emphasizing that citizen-owned utilities can be more efficient and accountable. Urged Lakewood to consider similar models. - Lauren Small (CEO, Lakewood Chamber of Commerce): Stated that reliable electricity is essential for businesses and that the Chamber supports the city's aggressive legal strategy. Expressed concern about rate increases without service improvements. - Ashley Drakenberg (Newman Avenue resident): Criticized First Energy for cutting corners and charging premium rates while failing to maintain infrastructure. Questioned the value of smart meters and demanded the $3 million PUCO forfeiture be returned to Lakewood ratepayers, not the state. - Alison Urbanic (St. Charles Avenue resident, representing Barton communities): Represented older adults in affordable housing. Called attention to vulnerable populations lacking backup power and criticized First Energy's critical care program as inadequate. Asked for prioritization of people over profits. - Don Noddage (Morrison Avenue resident): Described a personal medical emergency and financial loss due to the July 4th outage. Demanded concrete action, not baby steps, including temporary rate reductions and proactive assessment. - Teresa Sweeney (Lakewood resident, mother of ventilator-dependent son): Delivered an emotional account of life-threatening situations during outages. Stated her son requires reliable power for life support equipment and criticized the lack of a whole-house generator. Called on First Energy's leadership to understand the human impact. Discussion Items - President Kepple's Opening Remarks: Reviewed a timeline of PUCO investigations (2025 and 2026) and First Energy's failures, including equipment failures, communication breakdowns, and a press release misleadingly announcing transformer delivery. Emphasized need for multi-faceted response: legal pressure, local resilience, and state-level advocacy. - Mayor George: Thanked residents and the law department. Noted the city filed an addendum to the PUCO complaint demanding an interim emergency capacity plan and filed to intervene in First Energy's rate increase case. Stated that long-term capital improvements must be paired with immediate measures. - Law Director Ernie Vargo: Detailed PUCO-ordered corrective actions, including transformer replacements at Athens substation, pole equipment inspections (19 deficiencies found, 15 repaired), smart meter deployment, and improved ETR communications. Highlighted that the 2025 PNC led to a requirement for monthly outage reporting, which revealed structural issues. Described the ongoing 2026 PNC focusing on capacity and aging underground cables (some nearly 100 years old). Noted First Energy's $19 million commitment through 2027, but cautioned that $7 million is for smart meters (which do not improve reliability). Stressed that long-term upgrades (7–9 years) are needed, and interim solutions like backup generators and peak demand rebates must be explored. Mentioned the city's demand that the $3 million PUCO forfeiture be returned to Lakewood ratepayers. - First Energy Presentation (Sally Thomas, VP Distribution Engineering): Apologized for outages and acknowledged unmet expectations. Presented a plan including: 2 new transformers at Lakewood substation (first installed June 2026, second on track by end of 2026); 93% smart meter deployment; $6.5 million additional investment for circuit inspections (360+ deficiencies found), transformer banks for capacity, and replacement of pole-top transformers. Announced a long-term Lakewood improvement plan to be filed with PUCO by end of 2026, developed with independent engineering firm De Novo. Committed to improving communication with more accurate restoration time estimates. - Council Questions: Council members pressed for specifics on the long-term plan, the timeline for ETR improvements, the aging 4 kV system, and the lack of proactive maintenance. Councilmember Bullock suggested a voluntary economic assistance program for impacted residents; First Energy engineers said that was outside their scope. Councilmember Strebig criticized the critical care program as “let them eat cake.” Councilmember Baker raised the possibility of municipal appropriation of infrastructure as a “nuclear button.” First Energy representatives acknowledged past neglect but committed to future investments. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on agenda items, but council expressed unified support for the administration's legal strategy. - The city's motion to intervene in First Energy's rate case (PUCO Case No. 26‑0347‑EL‑AIR) is pending before an administrative law judge; council received updates. - First Energy committed to filing a comprehensive long-term reliability improvement plan with PUCO by December 31, 2026. - The law department will continue to monitor First Energy's compliance with all PUCO corrective actions and the $3 million forfeiture demand. - Council directed First Energy to provide exact completion dates for all outstanding corrective actions and to improve communication transparency. - Public comment underscored the severe impacts on vulnerable residents and businesses, with many calling for accountability and interim backup power solutions.

Note: The meeting agenda and transcript indicate the meeting occurred on September 21, 2026, but the provided date is September 17, 2026. This summary uses the supplied date as instructed. The Lakewood City Council met for a regular meeting, acting on a consent calendar, receiving committee reports, and deliberating on legislation related to bicycle infrastructure, public art, and a grant application for pool renovation. Key actions included adopting a resolution to seek state funds for Becks Pool and deferring a major bicycle ordinance for further refinement. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Approved the minutes of the September 8, 2026 regular meeting without reading. - Finance Committee Report (Sept. 14, 2026): Received and filed. The committee reviewed the 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (audit) with auditor Zupka & Associates. Director Mahoney and the Finance Department were commended for a clean audit. The report emphasized transparency and the audit's focus on accuracy and compliance. - Housing, Planning & Development Committee Report (Sept. 21, 2026): Received and filed. The committee met immediately before the council meeting to discuss Ordinance 40-2025 (bicycle infrastructure updates). Councilmember Evans noted that the discussion brought the legislation close to final, with a substitute ordinance to be drafted. - LakewoodAlive Board of Directors Report (Sept. 16, 2026): Received and filed. Vice President Baker reported on the board's activities, including: hiring a Housing Outreach Coordinator; exploring a volunteer home-repair program (e.g., building beds, installing grab bars); connecting 12 businesses with partner organizations; developing a business start-up guide; planning walking audits; and preparing for events (Spooky Pooch Parade Oct. 10, City-Wide Day of Service Nov. 7, Chocolate Walk Oct. 22, Light Up Lakewood Dec. 5). - Tree Advisory & Education Board Report (2026 meetings): Received and filed. Councilmember Bullock reported on accomplishments: spring tree giveaway, fall giveaway scheduled for October 3 at Bernice Pyke Park, pursuing Level 1 Arboretum certification at Cove Community Center, participating in the Lakewood Community Festival, and exploring a volunteer Tree Stewards program. The board is also researching a model tree ordinance for privately owned trees, with assistance from the Cuyahoga County Board of Health. - Communication on Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Grant Application: Received and filed. Director Byington presented the request to apply for a $500,000 LWCF grant (federal, administered by ODNR) for the Becks Pool renovation at Madison Park. The total project is estimated at $5–6 million; the pool has not been significantly upgraded since 1957. The contractor SIXMO (also handled Foster Pool) is leading design. Construction would begin after the 2027 swim season. The city's capital budget already includes matching funds. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - Ordinance 40-2025 – Bicycle Infrastructure Updates: Councilmember Evans moved to defer the ordinance to allow for a substitute draft based on committee and CASE Advisory Board feedback. The motion passed. The ordinance would update definitions for bicycles, e-bikes, motorized bicycles, bikeways, shared use paths, and sidewalk riding rules; raise the age for unsupervised bicycle riding on roadways from 8 to 10; and clarify repair responsibilities for bikeways vs. sidewalks. - Resolution 2026-40 – Adoption of the Public Art Master Plan: Director Byington presented the plan, developed with a Cuyahoga County Planning Commission grant. The plan incorporates over 800 public survey responses and covers seven art categories (mural, asphalt, sculpture, interactive, illuminated, functional/infrastructural, temporary/performance). Councilmember Strebig praised the data-driven approach. The resolution was substituted with the full plan attached and then referred to committee of the whole for further discussion. - Resolution 2026-41 – NatureWorks Grant for Becks Pool Renovation: The resolution was substituted to correct an error (originally referenced a different ODNR grant). After clarification that the NatureWorks grant is a state program (separate from the federal LWCF grant discussed earlier), the resolution was adopted on first reading. It authorizes the Mayor and Planning Director to apply and accept funds, with a 50% match required. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (unanimous). - All four committee reports and the LWCF grant communication received and filed (unanimous). - Ordinance 40-2025 deferred (motion passed) for a substitute draft; will return to committee before full council. - Resolution 2026-40 (Public Art Master Plan) referred to committee of the whole (motion passed). - Resolution 2026-41 (NatureWorks Grant for Becks Pool) adopted on first reading (unanimous). The application deadline is October 30, 2026. Announcements - Councilmember Evans thanked the Lakewood Police Department for quick response and Public Works for a well-received street construction project. - Councilmember Bixenstine reminded residents of the fall tree giveaway (reserve online) and a Keep Lakewood Beautiful pop-up cleanup at Madison Park on September 30. - Councilmember Strebig noted upcoming dates: fall equinox September 22, Celebrate Bisexuality Day September 23, full harvest moon September 26, LGBTQ History Month in October. - Councilmember Bullock highlighted the Lakewood High School homecoming parade route (September 25) and reported progress on council budget priorities. - President Kepple announced a Committee of the Whole meeting on September 28 at 6 p.m. with First Energy representatives, and a League of Women Voters forum on November charter amendments on September 29 at 7 p.m. at Lakewood Public Library. - Vice President Baker announced the Healthy Lakewood Foundation annual meeting on September 18 at Lakewood Congregational Church.

The Lakewood City Board of Zoning Appeals convened on September 17, 2026 at 11:45 AM. The board approved absences of two members, approved prior meeting minutes, and heard three docket items: one granted, two deferred. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the August 20, 2026 meeting by voice vote. - Approved the absences of Mr. Markling and Ms. Bellino. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment was offered on any agenda item. Discussion Items - Docket 08-11-26 – 17852 Lake Road (Old Business): Applicant Megan Higgins, property owner, requested variances for a minor addition (more spacious kitchen) to the east side of the home. The previous owner had been granted a variance for a similar addition, but it lapsed. The neighbor on the east side submitted a letter stating he no longer disputes the plans. The board asked clarifying questions and then voted to grant the three variances. - Docket 09-13-26 – 1332 Sloan Avenue (New Business): Applicant John Bloomberg (with wife Laura) proposed a garden shed/gazebo on a separate parcel they own, adjacent to their residence. The parcel lacks a principal structure. The board noted that the variance request was for a side-yard setback on a lot without a primary structure, which raised concerns about proper noticing and the board's authority. The applicant was advised to consolidate the parcels or consult a real estate attorney. The board offered the option to defer; the applicant chose to defer the request. - Docket 09-14-26 – 1441 Robinwood Avenue (New Business): Chris Gibson, general contractor for Calfus Construction, proposed replacing an existing deck with a larger composite deck (adding 168 square feet). During discussion, the board realized that the rear yard coverage calculation should include existing accessory structures (such as the garage), potentially making the variance unnecessary. The applicant agreed to defer the request to provide accurate dimensions and reassess the need for a variance. Key Outcomes - Docket 08-11-26: Variances granted unanimously (3-0) – (Mr. Piggett, Mr. Santiago, Ms. Hare all voted yes). - Docket 09-13-26: Motion to defer carried unanimously (3-0). - Docket 09-14-26: Motion to defer carried unanimously (3-0). The applicant was advised that the one-year start clock for approval does not begin until the variance is granted. - The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

The Housing, Planning, & Development Committee met to consider Ordinance 40-2025, a cleanup measure updating Lakewood's bicycle and e-mobility definitions and regulations - covering e-bike classes, e-scooters, shared-use paths, sidewalk riding, and sidewalk repair duties. After discussing enforcement, education, and concerns about unregulated e-motos, the committee moved to defer the ordinance for law department redrafting. Consent Calendar - A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes of the September 8, 2026 meeting. The committee then took up the next agenda item. Discussion Items - Ordinance 40-2025 overview - Bryan Evans, committee chair. Evans described the measure as a cleanup item that adopts Ohio's full three-class e-bike definitions (class 1, 2, and 3) and adds e-scooters, electric one-wheeled unicycles, and electric skateboards; adds state-law (ORC) definitions for "bikeway" and "shared use path"; updates Section 373.10 (riding on sidewalks) and Section 373.101 (riding on bikeways and shared-use paths); and carries Section 903.10 (sidewalk and driveway-apron repair) through without substantive change. The ordinance text includes an emergency clause requiring a two-thirds vote for immediate effect, otherwise taking effect at the earliest period allowed by law. - Regulating behavior, not devices. Evans said the committee's common position is to regulate rider behavior rather than the device type - for example, requiring the motor to be disengaged when riding on sidewalks - and that the Director of Public Safety retains case-by-case discretion. He noted prevailing speeds differ between Detroit Avenue, Clifton, sidewalks, and shared-use paths, and that no speed limits are being recommended in the ordinance at this time. - State limits on local authority. Evans explained the city cannot impose an operator licensing requirement because state law does not grant that authority, and since Ohio does not require e-bike classification stickers (as some states do), the city cannot require them. - Age and helmet recommendations. The CASE board (as named in the transcript) previously debated 18 versus 16 and voted to recommend 16 as the minimum operator age, with riders under 18 required to wear a helmet - the only provision from ORC 4511.522 that Evans said the city could pull into the ordinance. - Sidewalk versus shared-use path rules. Council member Strebig asked whether the sidewalk rule requiring riders to dismount when passing a blind person had been discussed and whether shared-use path width had been considered. Evans said it had not been discussed and likely reflects the physical limitations of sidewalks compared with purpose-designed shared-use paths. Council member Bixenstine noted the different character of parks as destinations rather than active transportation corridors. - Young riders and unregulated e-motos. Council members raised concerns about e-moto-style devices that do not require a license, registration, or lights and are increasingly used by young people; one concern raised was that a parent may buy such a device for a child, creating a conflict with the age rules. Evans strongly recommended the committee consider not allowing e-motos even on city streets, calling them dangerous, and said re-educating the public on existing, now-enforceable laws will be essential. - Education and snow removal. President Kepple noted that she, Council members Hamilton Steiner and Baker, and the Mayor discussed public education, and said passing the ordinance quickly would help parents avoid buying devices students could not use on Lakewood streets. Concerns were also raised that shared-use paths are frequently not cleared of snow properly; Evans said he wants to refine the maintenance language. Key Outcomes - Evans moved to defer Ordinance 40-2025 so the law department can draft a substitute ordinance reflecting the committee's discussion. A vote tally was not captured in the transcript, and the committee did not send the measure to full Council that evening. - Evans intends to develop language on shared-use path maintenance, including snow removal. - The committee expects to pair the updated ordinance with a public education effort on rules of the road for bicycles and e-mobility devices. Note: The posted agenda and the transcript each identify the meeting as the September 21, 2026 committee session, while the transcript metadata provided lists the meeting date as 2026-09-16 15:45:00+00:00. Consistent with the summary instructions, September 16, 2026 is used in the title and summary above.

On September 14, 2026, the Lakewood Finance Committee met to review the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the audit period January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025, as required by LCO §160.03. The meeting featured a presentation from Zupka & Associates, the independent auditors, who confirmed a clean (unmodified) audit opinion with no significant deficiencies, material weaknesses, or instances of noncompliance. The committee also approved the minutes from the July 6, 2026 meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of the July 6, 2026 Finance Committee meeting minutes was granted without objection. Discussion Items - Audit Presentation by Zupka & Associates - Audit partner Kyle Doherty and senior auditor Devin Bernard reviewed the audit process and results. They issued three key reports: an unmodified opinion on financial statements; a report on internal control and compliance with no deficiencies; and a clean opinion on compliance for two major federal programs (Community Development Block Grants and HOME Investment Partnerships Program). No management letter comments were issued. - The auditors explained that the audit covered opinion units including the general fund, major special funds, and other funds collectively. They used a risk-based approach, sampling transactions and reviewing internal controls, and found no issues. - The firm performed fieldwork over about six months, with on-site visits in late February and late April/early May 2025. - Committee Questions and Discussion - Councilmember Bullock asked about auditing standards and the selection of federal programs for review. Doherty clarified that standards are set by the AICPA and federal Uniform Guidance, and that program selection follows a prescribed process based on dollar thresholds and risk. Over a three-year cycle, all major programs must be audited at least once. - Councilmember Bixenstine inquired about conveying the significance of a clean audit to the public. Finance Director Mahoney noted that audit reports are publicly available online and that her department is open to citizen questions. Several council members emphasized the value of the audit as a backward-looking check on accuracy, distinct from fiscal health assessments by rating agencies. - Councilmember Hamilton Steiner highlighted the difficulty of achieving a clean audit, noting that only about 4% of Ohio municipalities receive one, and stressed the council's role in interpreting audit results for residents. - Chair Baker asked about peer comparisons regarding debt and fund balance. Doherty explained that the state auditor reviews financial health indicators (e.g., debt load, net position) for potential fiscal caution, but that the audit's focus is on accurate presentation. Baker also asked about best practices for internal controls; Doherty said any material recommendations would appear in a management letter, and that informal suggestions are made during fieldwork. - Councilmember Strebig asked about a specific paragraph in the Management Discussion & Analysis regarding the Lakewood Hospital Fund, referencing a decrease due to the sale of a downtown development site and a loan for a park and garage. Director Mahoney confirmed the sale and loan details: a $6 million loan (with $1 million forgivable) at 3.5% interest, amortized over 30 years but payable in 10. - Councilmember Bullock followed up on cash vs. accrual accounting, noting that the city budgets on a cash basis but converts to GAAP for the ACFR. Doherty explained that day-to-day operations are cash-based for simplicity, while the annual report requires complex accrual adjustments. - Director Mahoney noted that most departments’ adherence to purchase order procedures is essential for a clean audit, and praised the finance team (John, Jessica) for a seamless transition after the retirement of a longtime staff member. Key Outcomes - The Finance Committee formally received and filed the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the audit period ending December 31, 2025. The motion was made by Chair Baker, seconded, and passed unanimously by voice vote (all aye). - The meeting adjourned without further business.

The Board of Building Standards, Architectural Board of Review, and Sign Review Board met on September 10, 2026, to consider several sign permits, architectural modifications, and an appeal. The meeting included approvals, deferrals, and clarifications of prior decisions. Consent Calendar - Docket 098526 (15701 Detroit Avenue): Summary approved with no conditions. - Docket 098626 (1600 Detroit, Lakewood Detroit LLC): Approved with condition that any additional window signage must be approved by the board prior to installation. - Summary approved items (additional): Two other items were summary approved with conditions (one requiring no opaque background behind text). Public Comments & Testimony - Ryan Brady (Brady Signs) and Kate Oles (The Forest Dispensary) presented revised plans for 18605 Detroit Avenue, addressing board feedback on signage size and placement. - McKenzie Lush (Numa Pilates Studio) requested a background color change for an existing blade sign at 15112 Detroit Avenue. - Connor Kylander (owner of 1571 Madison Avenue) sought approval to modify previously approved awnings, citing budget and maintenance concerns. - Paul Began (adjacent building owner) urged the board to uphold the original awning approval for 1571 Madison, stating it adds character to the street. - Others: No additional public comments were recorded for most agenda items. Discussion Items - Old Business – Sign Review (Docket 08726, 1392 Bonnie View, Rock House Barbershop): Approved with conditions that the wall sign fit proportionately within the existing sign band’s trim and be centered, and that the window graphic not exceed 5 by 2 feet. - Old Business – Architectural Review (Docket 08826, 864 Beach Road): Tabled at the applicant’s request (second deferral). - Board of Building Standards Appeal (Docket 087826, 17517 Hilliard Road): The board clarified its prior denial, stating that taping the fanfold seams provides an adequate weather-resistive barrier and that removing existing siding would be an undue hardship. No new vote was taken. - New Business – Sign Review (Docket 098326, 18605 Detroit, The Forest Dispensary): Deferred for revisions after board concerns about excessive square footage, sign proportions, and the use of painted building areas as signage. - New Business – Sign Review (Docket 098826, 15112 Detroit, Horizon Education Center): Approved as presented for a freestanding monument sign. - New Business – Sign Review (Docket 098826, 15112 Detroit, Numa Pilates Studio): Approved with condition that the blade sign background remain black to comply with the building’s comprehensive sign plan. - Architectural Review (1571 Madison Avenue, Lakewood Dental Associates): Deferred after board found the proposed single awning insufficient to restore architectural definition; applicant asked to consult with architect and return with alternatives. - Architectural Review (New front porch covering, applicant not present): Approved as presented, with the board noting quality materials (copper detailing) and improved entry dimension. Key Outcomes - Approvals: Dockets 098526, 098626 (with condition), 08726 (with conditions), 098826 (two approvals: one as presented, one with condition), and the front porch covering. - Deferrals/Tabled: Dockets 08826 (tabled), 098326 (deferred), and the 1571 Madison Avenue item (deferred). - Clarification: For 17517 Hilliard Road, the board clarified the path to compliance (tape fanfold seams or follow original adjudication). - Votes: All approvals and deferrals were unanimous (motions carried with aye votes from all board members present).

The Lakewood City Council held its regular meeting on September 9, 2026, at 7:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including a contract with Flock Safety for license plate readers, updates from the Complete and Active Streets Education & Advisory Board (CASE), a report on the Block Club program, First Energy's infrastructure failures and rate case, and multiple routine items. Public comment was heard on several topics. Several items were referred to committees, and a resolution authorizing grant applications was adopted. Council also entered executive session to discuss legal matters related to First Energy. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the July 20, 2026 regular meeting and the August 5, 2026 Community Conversation. - Received and filed the communication from Vice President Baker regarding the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the City of Lakewood for the audit period January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025. Referred to Finance Committee. - Received and filed the report from Vice President Baker regarding the September 1, 2026 meeting of the Complete & Active Streets Education & Advisory Board. - Received and filed the communication from Councilmembers Evans, Strebig, and Bixenstine regarding an update on the block club program initiative. - Received and filed the report from Councilmember Hamilton Steiner regarding the July and August 2026 meetings of the Animal Safety & Welfare Advisory Board. - Received and filed the communication from Public Works Director Gordon regarding the Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) Grant Program Year 2028. - Adopted Resolution 2026-39 authorizing the City Engineer to prepare and submit applications to participate in OPWC and Local Transportation Improvement Programs. - Received and filed the communication from Fire Chief Fairbanks regarding a Public Utilities Commission of Ohio Training Grant (confined space rescue technician training for up to nine firefighters, $6,606.25 reimbursable grant). - Received and filed the communication from Planning Commission Chair LaPointe regarding the appointment of Kyle Reisz to the Community Reinvestment Area Housing Council (CRAHC). - Received and filed the July & August 2026 Finance Department vendor reports. - Filed with no objection the liquor permit for Bijou Hospitality LLC (Amazonia, 12012 Madison Ave) and the liquor permit for Karam Petroleum (16016 Hilliard Rd). Public Comments & Testimony - Flock Safety/ALPR cameras: Several residents spoke against the use of Flock cameras, citing privacy concerns, potential for abuse, lack of transparency on data sharing, and questionable effectiveness. Speakers asked the city to discontinue the contract. One resident requested access to audit logs, which had been denied under ORC exemption. - CASE Board / Shared Use Path Code Amendments: Residents spoke on the proposed regulations for e-bikes, e-scooters, and e-motos. Jeff Titzik (Bunts Road resident) expressed concern about safety on the shared use path, advocating for a speed limit. Emily Lindbergh (CASE Board member) changed her position after attending a conference and now recommends prohibiting e-motos on city streets entirely. Another speaker supported age 18 minimum for e-motos and allowing e-bikes on shared use paths. - First Energy: A resident expressed anger over First Energy's request to avoid a $3 million fine and highlighted the company's collection of grid modernization fees without delivering promised upgrades. - Lakewood City Schools / Elementary restructuring: Zach Roebuck (parent, Elementary Transition Committee member) urged council to press the school board for collaboration on transportation, crossing guards, snow clearing, and walkability impacts of the plan to repurpose Lincoln Elementary and create a centralized early learning center. He noted the school board was voting that night. - Bunts Road shared use path construction: Matt Herberger criticized the quality of the path installed near the high school, citing poor grading, edging, and asphalt issues, and asked for accountability from the contractor. Discussion Items - Flock Contract (Item 2): Councilmember Hamilton Steiner presented a communication about the city's contract with Flock Safety (year 4 of 5, $125,000 payment, 50 cameras). She noted resident concerns about privacy, data sharing, and effectiveness. The communication was referred to the Public Safety Committee after a motion and second. - CASE Board Report (Item 4): Vice President Baker reported on the CASE Board's September 1 meeting. Key topics: (1) proposed Shared Use Path Code Amendments to distinguish among e-bikes, low-speed micromobility devices, and e-motos; CASE Board favorably referred the amended legislation back to council with comments. (2) Proposed improvements to the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program, including purchasing two additional radar units and procuring a StreetLight data subscription. Public comments were heard, and the report was received and filed. - Block Club Program (Item 5): Councilmember Evans reported on three focus groups held in July, where residents requested a starter toolkit, a city webpage with a single point of contact, and more inclusive outreach to renters and immigrants. The communication was received and filed. - Animal Safety & Welfare Advisory Board (Item 6): Councilmember Hamilton Steiner reported on July and August meetings, including public comment on shelter procedures, a new online cat registration platform, and a deep dive on the Shelter Pro monthly report. The report noted a hoarding situation where 40 cats were euthanized and a dog euthanized after a biting incident. Received and filed. - OPWC Grant (Item 7 & 8): Public Works Director Gordon presented the 2028 Watermain Replacement Project (four street segments). A resolution authorizing grant applications was adopted after discussion about coordination with the school district on Delaware Ave. improvements. - Community Care Response Team (Item 9): Fire Chief Fairbanks requested council refer the matter to a committee for a presentation on the first year of the joint crisis response program. Referred to Health and Human Services Committee. - PUCO Training Grant (Item 10): Fire Chief Fairbanks notified council of a $6,606.25 grant for confined space rescue technician training. Received and filed. - CRAHC Appointment (Item 11): Assistant Director Baas explained the planning commission's appointment of Kyle Reisz to the Housing Council. Received and filed. - First Energy (Item 1, taken out of order): President Kepple reported that First Energy had agreed to appear before the Committee of the Whole on September 28, 2026 at 6:00 PM to discuss infrastructure reliability and corrective action plans. She noted the city filed a motion to intervene in the PUCO rate case (First Energy seeking rate increases of $5/month initially, escalating to $15/month by year three). Council then entered executive session to consult with legal counsel regarding pending disputes. After executive session, the communication was referred to the Committee of the Whole. Key Outcomes - Flock contract: Referred to Public Safety Committee for further discussion. - Resolution 2026-39: Adopted (OPWC grant applications). - Community Care Response Team: Referred to Health and Human Services Committee. - First Energy: Communication referred to Committee of the Whole; executive session held for legal consultation. - Liquor permits (Bijou Hospitality and Karam Petroleum): Filed with no objection. - All other communications: Received and filed as noted in the consent calendar. - Upcoming meeting: Finance Committee on September 14, 2026 at 7:00 PM to review the annual audit; Committee of the Whole with First Energy on September 28, 2026 at 6:00 PM; CASE Board code amendments scheduled for council discussion on September 21, 2026.

The Lakewood Planning Commission met on September 3, 2026, to consider a parking plan modification for 1384 Heard Avenue and to receive public input on the Delaware Avenue active transportation plan as part of a water main project. The commission approved the parking plan extension with conditions and received and filed the Delaware Avenue presentation. Public Comments & Testimony Delaware Avenue Active Transportation Plan (Item 092626): - Dan Zelinski (2197 Northland Ave): Questioned why raised crosswalks recommended in the Active Transportation Plan were not included; asked for city's guidance on raised crosswalks. - Maggie McKinney (2156 Carabel Ave): Expressed excitement for bike boulevard; supported crosswalk at Olive; asked about bike lane design in front of Hayes Elementary, particularly how students on bikes would access the school. - Emily Lindbergh (1651 Lauderdale Ave): Also questioned lack of raised crosswalks; advocated for a crosswalk at Northland; suggested a bi-directional protected bikeway along the school side and questioned necessity of parking on the south side. - Jim Andrews (Clifton Blvd): Raised concern about transition between shared lane and dedicated bike lane segments; questioned legality of crossing at non-signalized intersections. - Bill Zimmerman (2264 Woodward Ave): Opposed bike lanes during school drop-off/pickup due to safety; asked where curb extensions exist in Lakewood; questioned what problem is being solved; noted speed bumps on Woodward cause drainage issues. - Carrie Sommerman (2264 Woodward Ave): Cautioned against over-engineering; raised concerns about drainage, safety forces access, curb extensions bringing children closer to traffic; suggested keeping it simple. - Karen Schwartz (2249 Eldred Ave): Opposed bike lanes due to dooring risk during school pickup; described solution in search of a problem. - Cody George (2195 Wine Dot): Supported buffer zone between bike lane and parking; advocated for raised crosswalks; suggested painted crosswalk in school zone; noted infrastructure over paint. - Steve Bozia (16615 Delaware Ave): Asked about project timeline (water main replacement in 2028); noted speeding after school zone; supported speed tables at elementary schools; raised drainage issues. Discussion Items 1. Parking Plan Review – 1384 Heard Avenue (Item 092526) The applicant, Mark Casper and Diarius Houston on behalf of the new owner, requested an extension of the parking radius from 500 feet to 1,000 feet to secure additional off-site parking spaces for the Field House (restaurant, bar, event space). The original 2021 parking plan required 113 owner-controlled spaces within 500 feet. The applicant had secured 43 spaces at Martindale Electric and 40 spaces at Northwest School of the Arts (within 1,000 feet). City staff recommended approval with conditions: return to commission in six months if use changes, apply for separate outdoor dining permit, submit final parking agreements, and develop a plan for communicating parking locations and promoting transit/ride-share. The commission discussed operating hours, parking restrictions, and communication plans. A motion to approve with those conditions passed unanimously (Commissioner Gall excused). 2. Delaware Avenue Active Transportation Plan (Item 092626) City Engineer Mark Papke presented a concept plan for a bike boulevard on Delaware Avenue from Glenbury to Carabel, coinciding with a 2028 water main replacement. The plan included shareows (shared lane markings) or a buffered bike lane in the wider section near Hayes Elementary, curb extensions at Woodward and Olive, a rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) at Olive, and high-visibility crosswalks at Carabel. Public comments raised concerns about raised crosswalks, bike lane transitions, school drop-off conflicts, drainage, and parking loss. Commission members discussed preferences for Option B (buffered bike lane), safety, and the need for further study. No vote was taken; the commission received and filed the communication. Key Outcomes - Parking Plan (1384 Heard Ave): Approved with conditions: 1. Return to Planning Commission in six months (March 4, 2027) to update on use and parking; if unchanged, a letter suffices. 2. Apply for separate outdoor conditional use permit for patio dining. 3. Submit finalized parking agreements for spaces within 1,000 feet. 4. Develop an internal plan for external communication and signage to direct patrons to approved parking areas; promote ride-share and public transit. - Delaware Avenue Project: Received and filed. City staff will incorporate public and commission feedback into the design, with the next stage presentation expected in approximately one year.

The meeting was called to order at 3:15 PM. The board approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Chairperson provided opening remarks, including a plan for a special virtual meeting to discuss board rules and regulations, and confirmed that members Emily and John are willing to continue their terms beyond December 2026, which will require reappointment by the appointing authorities. The board then received a presentation on the Shared Use Path Code Amendments and the Traffic Calming Program review. Public comments were heard on disability access and school redistricting. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim (address not stated) raised concerns about the language in the code regarding mobility devices, noting that the term "not a mobility device" is confusing for people with disabilities. He asked for clearer communication that assisted mobility devices are allowed on sidewalks. The board agreed to schedule a future discussion on this topic. - Caitlin McCrady (Cook Avenue, Ward 2) spoke as a resident and transportation professional. She urged the board to recommend that the city formally request a joint city‑district transportation and safety review before the school district's consolidation plans take effect, warning that the changes would push more children across high‑stress corridors like Clifton, contradicting the Active Transportation Plan's goals. Discussion Items - Shared Use Path Code Amendments (Referral): Dave Voss presented the proposed amendments to the city code, focusing on definitions (e‑bikes, e‑motos, low‑speed micromobility devices) and operational rules for bicycles, e‑bikes, and e‑motos on sidewalks, bikeways, and shared‑use paths. Key points included: - Adding a definition for "e‑moto" (local definition for vehicles exceeding e‑bike criteria). - Aligning e‑bike definitions with Ohio Revised Code (three classes). - Removing the 12 mph speed limit for e‑scooters from the reckless operation section. - Allowing e‑bikes and low‑speed micromobility devices on sidewalks under the same rules as bicycles. - Prohibiting e‑motos (and motorized bicycles) from sidewalks, bikeways, and shared‑use paths. - Adding an age restriction for riding on bikeways/shared‑use paths: under 10 requires an adult. - Board discussion focused on the minimum age for e‑motos. Some members advocated for 16, others for 18, citing safety and lack of state licensing. The state requires age 16 for class‑3 e‑bikes. - Traffic Calming Program Review: Dave Voss presented an overview of the current neighborhood traffic calming program, including: - The program is resident‑driven: nominations, data collection (three thresholds: average daily traffic ≥600, 85th percentile speed ≥30 mph, ≥5% of traffic 35 mph), resident surveys, block meetings, and two votes (50% support to proceed, 60% for final installation). - Speed tables are the preferred intervention due to low cost, effectiveness, and ease of repair. - Challenges include long data‑collection times (44 blocks under study) and re‑nominations. - Discussion included concerns about speed tables for residents with disabilities (spinal issues), the use of radar signs, and the potential for traffic to divert to adjacent streets after calming measures. Some members suggested lowering the 85th percentile threshold to better reflect the 25 mph speed limit. Councilman Baker noted council is considering whether to codify the program and how to handle streets that are emergency routes. - Jeff's Comments on School District Consolidation: Jeff informed the board that the Lakewood City School District Board of Education is moving to approve a plan to consolidate and reconfigure school facilities, resulting in over 800 pre‑K to 5 students being relocated. He highlighted impacts on walking and biking patterns, with many additional children walking over a mile and increased traffic concentration, especially along Lincoln, Lakeland, Summit, and Clifton. He asked the board to consider recommending that the city collaborate with the school district to study these changes against the Active Transportation Plan. Key Outcomes - The board unanimously (7‑0, with one member excused) approved adding the state age‑16 requirement for class‑3 e‑bikes to the code. - On the e‑moto age requirement, the board split: 5 members supported age 16, 2 members supported age 18. The recommendation to council will note the disagreement. - The board will continue the traffic calming discussion at its next meeting and may provide additional recommendations. - Jeff's comments on school consolidation were noted; the board did not take a formal vote but expressed interest in further discussion at a future meeting. - The board agreed to schedule a special virtual meeting to discuss board rules and regulations.