Public Meetings - Lakewood, Ohio

The Case Advisory Board held its third meeting (second quarter) on June 3, 2026, at 6:04 p.m. The meeting focused on finalizing board rules and regulations and discussing proposed amendments to the shared use path code, including definitions for mobility devices, e-bikes, and e-motos. Public comment was heard on the code amendments. The board deferred final decisions on both items to the next meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the February 24, 2026 meeting with two corrections: (1) clarifying that existing code already excludes assistive devices from the definition of mobility device (not recommending additional language), and (2) specifying that comments about not prohibiting devices were in reference to e-bikes and e-scooters, not all devices. The amendment was approved by voice vote with abstentions from those absent. Public Comments & Testimony - Robbie Organ (14513 Bayes): Recommended adopting ORC’s three-class e-bike system to allow class one e-bikes on shared use paths while banning class two/three and e-motos. Opposed weight limits (e.g., 100 lbs) as they would exclude cargo bikes. Supported separating infrastructure definitions (bike lanes vs. paths). Also noted that 10 a.m. Tuesday meetings limit public attendance. - Cassie Organ (14513 Bayes): Echoed weight limit concerns, citing her class one cargo bike. Urged not classifying park paths as sidewalks because there is no alternative route. Pointed out that a proposed definition (Section 373.101) would ban adults from operating mobility devices on bikeways, which is confusing. - Molnaro (14200 Leroy Avenue): Supported streamlining e-bike use on multi-use paths and emphasized that children should also be subject to rules for safety. Discussion Items - Board Rules & Regulations: Members discussed amendments to the draft rules. Key points: (1) Changing “chairman” to “chairperson” in the charter; (2) Adjusting the 14.5-day agenda deadline to allow flexibility for adding items closer to meetings; (3) Allowing the chair or a majority to set special meetings and subcommittees. The board agreed to have Mr. McCourt submit proposed language and to bring a revised version to the next meeting. The regular meeting time was set to the first Tuesday of each quarter at 10 a.m., with flexibility for holidays. - Shared Use Path Code Amendments: Director Boss presented a detailed overview of needed definitions. Topics included: - Mobility device vs. low-speed micromobility device: The board leaned toward adopting the ORC low-speed micromobility device definition (with a qualifying statement including but not limited to e-unicycles and e-skateboards), and clarifying that it excludes assisted devices for persons with disabilities (preferring “person with a disability” language). - E-bike definitions: Debate centered on whether to adopt ORC’s three-class system (class 1,2,3) or a single blanket definition. Some members argued class 3 should be prohibited on shared use paths due to speed (28 mph), while others favored regulating operator behavior (speed limits) rather than device classes. The board did not reach consensus and will continue discussion. - E-moto definition: General support for creating a local definition for devices exceeding 750 watts or 28 mph (e-motorcycles/dirt bikes) to enable enforcement and licensing requirements. - Infrastructure definitions: Discussion of “bikeway,” “shared use path,” and “bike lane.” The board considered distinguishing between park paths (narrow, non-delineated) and transportation-oriented shared use paths (10-11 ft wide, delineated). The timeline for new paths (Metro Parks connector, Lake-Clifton, Bunts) extends to 2027, so no immediate urgency. Key Outcomes - Minutes: Approved with corrections. - Rules & Regulations: Deferred to next meeting; Mr. McCourt to propose language for special meetings and subcommittees; regular meeting time set to first Tuesday of quarter at 10 a.m. - Shared Use Path Code Amendments: Deferred to next meeting. The board will continue to refine definitions for mobility devices, e-bikes, and e-motos, and consider input from public comments. No votes were taken on the amendments.

The regular meeting of the Lakewood City Council on June 1, 2026, covered board appointments, a resolution encouraging gender-neutral restrooms, reports from city officials, liquor permit applications, public comments, and an executive session for appointments. The meeting began at 7:30 PM in Council Chambers. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the regular meeting of May 18, 2026, were approved without objection. - May 2026 Finance Department vendor report was received and filed. - Liquor permit for Speed Trap Racing, LLC at 14718 Detroit Avenue was filed with no objection; council noted the business has gender-neutral restrooms. Public Comments & Testimony - Ed Rand (Donald Avenue resident, lifelong Lakewood) urged Council to suspend the Flock surveillance contract, citing a May 21 article detailing over 16 immigration-based queries within 30 days on Cleveland's Flock cameras (5.4 queries per day). He noted many queries came from out-of-state agencies (Texas Department of Public Safety, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) involved in immigration enforcement. He highlighted Dayton, Ohio suspending its Flock contract after 7,000 immigration-related searches. He asked for immediate camera covering while contract suspension is deliberated. - Emily Lindbergh (Lauderdale Avenue, 15-year resident) raised concerns about recurring parking violations (sidewalk, bike lane, visibility zone) that reduce safety for pedestrians and cyclists. She advocated for dedicated parking enforcement (rather than patrol officers), higher fines, better curb management, and consideration of bike-and-foot patrol enforcement. Discussion Items - Communication from President Kepple (Council Board & Commission Appointments): Kepple noted that Council has two appointments each to the Community Reinvestment Area Housing Council (CRAHC) and the Local Board of Tax Review. Despite high quality, application volume was low. She proposed filling positions with available applicants and strategizing for remaining vacancies. The communication was received and filed; the two associated resolutions (Items 2 and 3) were moved after public comment. - Gender-Neutral Restrooms (Items 4 & 5): Councilmember Strebig presented a communication and Resolution 2026-34 to encourage businesses and public accommodations to convert single-user gender-specific restrooms to gender-neutral. Council spoke in favor: Kepple noted co-sponsorship and thanked the Youth Council; Bixenstine cited safety, inclusion, efficiency, and caregiver benefits; Evans thanked Strebig and Youth Council for advocacy. The resolution includes city assistance for signage. The Lakewood Youth Council chair Amelia Ormel Demer, member Cora Barcelona, and trans resident Sean spoke in strong support, noting personal experiences with harassment and inaccessibility. Resolution 2026-34 was adopted unanimously. - LASWAB Report (Item 6): Councilmember Hamilton Steiner provided a report (unable to attend) from the May 20 meeting of the Lakewood Animal Safety & Welfare Advisory Board. Highlights: a successful pet food drive on May 9 collecting 1,960 pounds of food and $587 in cash donations, with support from H2O youth volunteers; discussion of bird-safe glass education for migratory bird protection; update from ACO Crumley on animal control, shelter numbers, and new website (with accessibility suggestions); and a positive Lakewood Observer article featuring the shelter. Report received and filed. - Liquor Permits: QAJ Enterprise LLC at 14000 Detroit Avenue was deferred (no report yet). Speed Trap Racing LLC at 14718 Detroit Avenue was filed with no objection; council noted gender-neutral restrooms and the business's sophisticated machinery. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2026-34 (Gender-neutral restrooms) adopted unanimously after public comment from the Lakewood Youth Council. - Resolution 2026-32 (Community Reinvestment Area Housing Council appointments) was deferred without action following executive session. - Resolution 2026-33 (Local Board of Tax Review appointments) was amended to insert the names John Seaman and Will Costello, then adopted as amended by emergency measure (affirmative votes of at least two-thirds of members). - Executive session was held pursuant to ORC 1212G to consider the appointments, with all present members voting to enter. - Public comments were taken on Flock surveillance and parking enforcement; no immediate action was taken but council noted ongoing work on both issues. - Meeting adjourned without further business after resolution actions.

The Public Arts Advisory Board met in special session on May 26, 2026, to approve prior meeting minutes, receive an update on the Public Art Master Plan, and review preliminary designs for public art projects. Board members present were Mr. Robar, Miss Ryan, Mrs. Santis, Miss Rosie, and Mr. Frederick. Staff member Amanda facilitated the meeting, with multiple artists presenting for board feedback. Consent Calendar - Approved the January 14, 2026 meeting minutes by motion, second, and unanimous voice vote. - Approved the April 15, 2026 meeting minutes by motion, second, and unanimous voice vote. Discussion Items Public Art Master Plan Update - Staff reported that the final internal committee meeting had occurred, with Dave and Gina in attendance. - The 160-page plan is compiled and undergoing internal review and coordination with the county; an implementation matrix is scheduled to be developed next week to support action. - The plan is expected to be presented to the Planning Commission next month and to City Council in July for approval; board members were invited to attend the July meeting. - Board members voiced support for the process, praised county collaboration and steering-committee openness, and noted the plan's potential to diversify public art and raise the public art budget. - Staff noted residents surveyed as part of the process expressed support for public art as a good use of taxpayer dollars, and referenced the success of decorative traffic boxes in building public support. Spectacular Vernacular: Dog Mural Preliminary Design - Artists Derek Brennan and Chad Fedorovich presented a preliminary concept (Concept A) for a mural, likely on a wall at a vacant lot. The proposed design would feature local dogs photographed during planned pop-up engagement events, surrounded by flowers, with the possibility of more than one dog included. - The artists discussed removing existing vinyl, using breathable masonry paint with a 10–15 year life expectancy, UV-protective coatings, and specialty mural paint. They noted the wall will require Architectural Board Review approval. - Board members expressed support for the playful community engagement idea and for using paint rather than vinyl for brick health. A Boston Terrier appeared in the preliminary image; the final dog(s) would be chosen from community photo shoots. - Next steps: final design requested by June 30, with some flexibility, and installation due by September. Artists were asked to provide contract paperwork. Birds of Bird Town: Street Sign Sculptures - Artist Arling Graff presented a design for laser-cut, two-sided bird sculptures to be mounted on street signs in the Bird Town neighborhood. Approximately 16 birds are planned, each made of layered painted metal with custom brackets and anti-theft bolts. - Graff explained the use of automotive-grade epoxy primer and clear coats for weather resistance, and planned to build a prototype before final installation. He also described options for varying bird positions and colors for visibility and durability. - Board members praised the playful, dynamic designs and educational potential. Discussion included QR codes, sidewalk stencils, maps, or an app to create a self-guided bird tour; staff said the project will be connected to the public art map and that signage/wayfinding options will be explored. - The board gave go-ahead on the design; Graff will make minor adjustments and test a prototype. Hilliard Mural: Aaron Casey and Collaborator - Aaron Casey presented two preliminary concepts for a mural at a high-traffic Hilliard-area site, developed with collaborator Ali Cook Coquita (also referred to as Allison). The first concept included animals and the quote "Inspiring Generations"; the second concept featured a bike-themed scene. - Board members noted the first concept's animals seemed foreign to the area and that the two sides appeared stylistically disconnected, partly because one visual was generated with ChatGPT. They encouraged more cohesion and more of Casey's personal artistic style in a revised design. - Board members were supportive of the bike-themed direction given the site's history and context, and suggested showing intergenerational interaction, such as planting flowers or riding bikes together, and incorporating neighborhood elements like dogs, cats, or local references. - Casey noted the property owner, Scott, requested racing stripes incorporated, possibly via planes in the sky. Staff will check with Public Works before the design advances. - Next steps: Casey will develop a third design and send it for informal feedback before the board's next meeting in July; final presentation is expected at that meeting. Key Outcomes - Both sets of meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - The Public Art Master Plan will proceed to the Planning Commission and then to City Council in July. - The dog mural artists were given direction to pursue Concept A with community engagement; final design deadline is June 30, with installation by September. - The Birds of Bird Town concept received board approval; the artist will prepare a prototype and finalize installation details. - Aaron Casey was asked to refine and resubmit mural designs, with a target of presenting a third concept at the July board meeting. Note: The transcript contains no formal public comment period or public testimony.

The Lakewood Board of Zoning Appeals met on May 21, 2026, to hear three variance requests and conduct routine business. The board approved all three variances unanimously and appointed a chair pro tem for the next meeting. Consent Calendar - Absence Excused: A motion to excuse member Gillian Bellino passed unanimously. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the March 19, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. (The agenda inaccurately listed April; corrected during meeting.) Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were received for any of the docket items. Discussion Items Docket 05-06-27: 17516 Dale View Avenue – Garage Variance - Applicant: Dan Marguluz (designer) and Bob Odet (owner). Proposal to replace a failing garage with a new two-story garage. Requested variances: height of 16'4" (1'4" above 15' maximum) and side yard setback of 1.5' (18"). - Applicant Position: The taller garage provides a buffer between the residence and adjacent C1 commercial district (apartment buildings). The second floor will serve as a home office for the owner, who works remotely. Height reduction was considered but would compromise usable space. - Board Discussion: Members noted the property abuts commercial zoning, which has a 120' height limit. Past precedent allows more leniency near commercial. The height request was considered modest at 1'4". The side yard setback clarification: 1.5' = 18", not 1'5". - Administrative Comments (Ms. Nocta): Reviewed nearby garages – at least 2 of 13 were taller gable style. Presented chart comparing residential vs. C1 requirements. No public opposition. - Motion: To approve as proposed. Passed 4-0 (Piggett, Santiago, Markling, Hare all yes). Docket 05-07-26: 1194 Cook Avenue – Garage Expansion Variance - Applicant: David Linden, owner-occupant of a duplex. Request to expand garage from 480 sq ft to 560 sq ft (80 sq ft increase, roughly size of a small shed) to allow wider garage doors for easier vehicle access. - Applicant Position: Existing garage is narrow; previous tenants struggled. The wider doors will improve maneuverability for the left unit. Height is compliant. A neighbor provided a letter of support. - Board Discussion: Members considered the request modest and practical. The pre-review clarified that the increase is smaller than it appears. - Administrative Comments (Ms. Nocta): Reviewed 15 properties on Cook; 7 had 25% rear lot coverage. Not the largest garage on the street. No public comment. - Motion: To approve as proposed. Passed 4-0. Docket 05-08-26: 1044 Roy Drive – Rear Patio Roof Variance - Applicant: Mike Allen (contractor) for Michelle Hubble. Request to demolish and replace a failing covered patio roof, extending it 4 feet further into the rear yard (from 16'6" to 12'6" from rear property line). Area increases from 112 sq ft to 192 sq ft. - Applicant Position: The existing structure was built without permits; owner wants a safe, attractive patio. The property is a corner lot with two front yard setbacks (30' on Edgewater, 20' on Roy), reducing buildable area. The rear yard is defined as behind the Roy-facing front. - Board Discussion: Clarified that if the house were addressed on Edgewater, this would be a side yard and compliant. The request is modest. Chair noted no practical difficulty beyond lot constraints. - Administrative Comments (Ms. Nocta): The home is 26.5' from rear line; proposed patio roof extends to 12.5'. No public comment. - Motion: To approve as proposed. Passed 4-0. Key Outcomes - All three variances were granted unanimously (4-0). - Anthony Santiago was appointed as chair pro tem for the next meeting. - Meeting adjourned after concluding business.

The meeting covered old and new business for architectural and sign review, including several approvals with conditions, one tabling, and two deferrals. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the April 9, 2026 meeting. - Summary approvals for sign cases: 16203 Hilliard (FIKI Cafe), 17615 Detroit (Cons pizza), 16806 Madison (Chini), and 1615604 Detroit (hair shop) – each approved without conditions or additional discussion. Public Comments - Councilman Ryan Evans (Ward 2) submitted a letter in support of the accessible home proposed at 14909 Arden Avenue. Discussion Items - 1654 Waterbury (Old Business, Docket 021726): The applicant presented a revised single-family home design with the garage moved to the rear, a third column added to the front porch, and white siding without black trim. The board commended the changes, noting the house now looks more like a Lakewood home. The rear retaining wall (approximately 30 inches) was discussed and allowed as a landscape wall at the board’s discretion. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - 11730 Detroit – North Coast Departments (Old Business, Docket 097725): Eric Loomis presented the project, which restores an existing brick building and adds a rear volume with metal siding. Key concerns included the seam location of the metal panels. The board suggested aligning seams with window sills and headers to avoid a ten-foot panel limitation. Public comment: none. Approved with a condition that seams on the back volume match the sill of lower windows, the bottom of Juliet doors, and the header of second-floor windows. - 16620 Madison – First Energy Substation (Docket 021926): Wes Davis presented a proposal to remove two existing pillars at the northeast corner of Madison and Lauderdale to widen access gates for utility trucks. The existing chain-link fence will be replaced with a decorative metal fence. The board noted a discrepancy in the drawing scale and asked for scaled elevations. Public comment: none. Approved with condition to submit scaled elevations for both gates. - 15314 Madison – Mars Bar Sign (Docket 054326): George from Mars Bar proposed a new illuminated sign (a rocket-shaped art piece) to be mounted above an existing neon sign. The board found the concept visually appealing and noted no other signs on the building. The existing neon sign will remain. The applicant agreed to submit the new light fixture design for administrative approval. Approved with condition. - 14532 Detroit – Spiritual Journey (Docket 0443426): Anthony King represented the business, which had non-compliant window and door graphics. To bring the signage within allowable square footage, the board approved a motion that either the door graphics or one window graphic be removed, with a 30-day compliance period. Motion passed unanimously. - 16500 Detroit – Health Markets (Docket 054626): Carl Lishing presented a revised sign proposal with reduced wall signage and no blade sign. The window signs remained but were within window allowance; the overall square footage was slightly over due to the sign band. The board found the sign consistent with other storefronts on the building and approved unanimously. - 14909 Arden Avenue – New Single-Family Home (Docket 054826): David Minet presented a one-floor-living accessible home with a ramp and low profile. The board praised the design and noted it fits the neighborhood. The home includes a first-floor bedroom and bathroom, with additional bedrooms upstairs. The board approved unanimously. - 1020 Park Beside Drive – Second Floor Addition & Front Porch (Docket 054926): Heather Davies presented a project that adds a second story to the rear, a front covered porch, and a detached garage. The design matches existing materials. The board approved unanimously, noting the addition feels original to the house. - 1464 Oversight Drive (Docket 055026): The applicant did not respond to pre-review requests, so the board tabled the item due to lack of communication. - 17456 Lake Avenue – Garage Replacement (Docket 055126): Robert Donnelly presented plans to replace an existing 20x20 garage with a 20x24 garage and matching driveway/steps. The board noted the need for scaled elevations and details (especially the roof dormers and stair design). The item was deferred to allow the applicant to submit proper drawings. - 17212 Riverside Drive – Garage/Mudroom/Artist Studio (Docket 055261): Jill Brant presented a project to demolish an existing garage and build a new one with a mudroom and second-floor artist studio. The board discussed the roof form (hip roof with ridge running front-to-back) and the asymmetry of the front elevation (off-center garage door and window). No consensus was reached; the board deferred the item so the applicant could explore design solutions. Key Outcomes - Approved: Minutes, 1654 Waterbury, 11730 Detroit (with conditions), 16620 Madison (with conditions), 15314 Madison sign (with condition), 14532 Detroit sign (with condition), 16500 Detroit sign, 14909 Arden Avenue, 1020 Park Beside Drive, and summary-approved sign cases. - Tabled: 1464 Oversight Drive (due to lack of applicant communication). - Deferred: 17456 Lake Avenue (need for scaled drawings) and 17212 Riverside Drive (need for design revisions on roof and front elevation). - Communication Item: The board received and filed a discussion on proposed code changes (Docket 055326) being reviewed by the Zback group. All votes were by voice vote with no dissenting votes recorded.

The Lakewood City Council met on May 14, 2026, to discuss a range of legislative and policy items, including the adoption of an LGBTQIA+ Pride Month resolution, updates on ranked choice voting charter amendments, a new HELP Foundation concession agreement, and a $6,000 recycling education grant. Council also heard public testimony opposing Flock Safety license plate readers and demanding action on a problematic short-term rental property. Consent Calendar - Reading and disposal of the minutes of the May 4, 2026 regular meeting: approved unanimously. - Received and filed the report from the Public Works & Sustainability Committee on Ordinance 25-2026 (HELP Foundation concession). - Received and filed the oral report from the Committee of the Whole on charter amendments and ranked choice voting. - Received and filed reports from Councilmember Strebig on the April 26, 2026 Lakewood Youth Council meeting and the April 21, 2026 Community Recreation and Education Commission meeting. - Received and filed communication from Building Commissioner Parmelee regarding a correction to the electrical permit fee schedule. - Received and filed communication from Public Works Director Gordon on the 2026 Community Recycling Awareness Grant. - Received and filed communication from Principal Planner Nochta on the NatureWorks Grant application for Beck’s Pool renovation. - Deferred the liquor permit for QAJ Enterprise LLC at 14000 Detroit Avenue. Public Comments & Testimony - Pride Month Resolution (Items 11 & 12): Several community members spoke in support of the resolution, including Ohio Senate Minority Leader Nikki Antonio (Bell Avenue), who recalled the contentious first pride flag vote in 2002; Chuck Johnson (PFLAG Cleveland); Dr. Jess Sellers and Art Thompson (PFLAG Cleveland); and Mark Zabo (Rocky River), who noted his identity as a veteran and LGBTQ+ community member and urged continued support. - Flock Safety Cameras (Public Comment period): Jared Ark and Ryan Reim (1409 Marlowe Avenue) spoke against the city’s use of Flock automatic license plate readers, citing concerns about data sharing with federal agencies, potential for abuse (e.g., stalking, immigration enforcement), and instances in other Ohio cities. They urged the city to terminate its contract with Flock. - Short-Term Rental Nuisance (Public Comment period): Joey Artino (Delaware Avenue) and Caitlin Tuhig (Delaware Avenue) described ongoing problems at 14227 Delaware Avenue, a two-unit Airbnb owned by an out-of-state investor. Artino reported 63 police calls in five years and cited noise, parties, fights, and suspected drug activity. He asked council to designate the property as a nuisance and to pass a short-term rental ordinance requiring owner occupancy. Tuhig, a clinical mental health counselor, shared similar accounts of sex work, drug use, and late-night disturbances observed by children. Discussion Items - LGBTQIA+ Pride Month Resolution (Resolution 2026-30): Mayor Meghan George introduced the resolution recognizing June 2026 as Pride Month and authorizing the pride flag to be flown at City Hall. Councilmembers Strebig, Hamilton Steiner, Baker, Bullock, Bixenstine, and Kepple spoke in support, emphasizing allyship and the importance of protecting LGBTQIA+ rights. The resolution was adopted unanimously after public testimony. - Ranked Choice Voting Charter Amendment (Ordinance 27-2026): President Kepple reported from the Committee of the Whole meeting held earlier that evening. Council reviewed four options: (1) direct adoption via charter amendment, (2) allowing council the option to implement ranked choice voting (the current ordinance), (3) a conditional amendment tied to repeal of Senate Bill 63, and (4) waiting until after November 2026. No decision was reached; the ordinance was deferred to allow continued committee work. Related ordinances on council salaries, appointment processes, and ward redistricting (Ordinance 19-2026) remain in committee. - HELP Foundation Concession Agreement (Ordinance 25-2026): Councilmember Bullock reported that the Public Works & Sustainability Committee discussed the one-year lease for food concessions at Lakewood Park and Madison Park (May 1, 2026 – April 30, 2027). Committee members expressed support and requested copies of alternative proposals. The ordinance remains in committee. - Codification of Ordinances (Substitute Ordinance 24-2026): Council adopted the quarterly update approving the editing and inclusion of several recently passed ordinances into the Codified Ordinances, effective immediately. - Electrical Permit Fee Schedule (Resolution 2025-71A): Council adopted an amendment to restore a $30 base fee for electrical permits, which had been inadvertently omitted from the Master Fee Schedule. The change is a restoration, not an increase. - Community Recycling Awareness Grant: Director Gordon reported that the city was awarded $6,000 from the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District for a 24-week billboard campaign. One full-size board at Detroit east of West Clifton and two junior posters at 12506 Detroit west of Cove Avenue will educate the public on proper recycling practices. The communication was received and filed. - NatureWorks Grant for Beck’s Pool Renovation (Resolution 2026-31): Principal Planner Nochta requested authorization to apply for up to $150,000 in ODNR NatureWorks grant funds (with a 25% city match) for the Beck’s Pool renovation project, estimated at $4–6 million. The grant application deadline is July 1, 2026. The resolution was adopted on first reading. Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolution 2026-30 recognizing June 2026 as LGBTQIA+ Pride Month and authorizing the pride flag to fly at City Hall. Vote: unanimous. - Adopted Substitute Ordinance 24-2026 (codification update). Vote: unanimous. - Adopted Resolution 2025-71A amending the Master Fee Schedule to restore a $30 base fee for electrical permits. Vote: unanimous. - Adopted Resolution 2026-31 authorizing application for the NatureWorks Grant for Beck’s Pool renovation. Vote: unanimous. - Deferred Ordinance 27-2026 (ranked choice voting charter amendment) pending continued Committee of the Whole deliberations. - Received and filed all reports and communications as listed under Consent Calendar. - Deferred the liquor permit for QAJ Enterprise LLC at 14000 Detroit Avenue. - Council committed to advancing a short-term rental regulatory ordinance later this year, with Councilmembers Baker, Evans, and Bullock leading the effort. The administration also agreed to explore enforcement of existing nuisance property laws at 14227 Delaware Avenue. - Council noted upcoming meetings with the administration to discuss Flock Safety data-sharing concerns.

The Committee of the Whole met on May 12, 2026, to discuss several proposed charter amendments for the November 3, 2026 general election. The primary focus was on ranked choice voting (RCV) and its interconnection with amendments regarding elected official salaries, council appointment procedures, and ward redistricting. Council heard from the Director of the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections and received public comment. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Bindle expressed support for ranked choice voting, arguing that primary election costs (approximately $3,000 per precinct, 37 precincts in Lakewood) would offset any ballot printing or software upgrade costs. He opposed Option 2 (allowing council to adopt RCV via ordinance) and favored Options 1, 3, or 4, emphasizing that voters should decide, not council. - Dean Jackson, a member of the Charter Review Commission, noted the commission's recommendation aimed to avoid state funding loss. He suggested that waiting for a better political environment (e.g., after the November election) or including a trigger clause that delays implementation until state law is repealed were viable paths. - Michelle Jackson, representing Rank the Vote Ohio, provided technical details: the Clear Ballot software upgrade was federally certified on November 19, 2025, and the state Board of Voting Systems Examiners had the upgrade on its January 2026 agenda. She cited Portland’s first RCV election, noting a one-time software cost of $225,000 and additional ballot sheet costs of $313,000 in 2025, but emphasized that primary election costs countywide are covered by the county, not individual municipalities. Discussion Items - Ranked Choice Voting Options: President Kepple outlined four options: - Option 1 (Ordinance 21-2026): Direct voter adoption with severability clause; effective January 2029. - Option 2 (Ordinance 27-2026): Charter amendment allowing council to adopt RCV via ordinance (Charter Review Commission’s original recommendation, but potentially triggers SB63). - Option 3 (not drafted): Direct voter adoption triggered only if SB63 is repealed. - Option 4: Wait until after the November 2026 election to assess legal and political changes. Council members expressed varied positions: - Vice President Baker leaned toward Option 2 or doing nothing, citing distrust of future councils but respect for voters. - Councilman Evans favored direct charter amendment (Option 1 or 3) as a statement for home rule. - Councilwoman Strebig supported RCV but opposed risking local funding, preferring to wait (Option 4). - Councilman Bixenstine saw value in RCV but was uncertain on the best option, emphasizing risk assessment. - Councilman Bullock expressed caution, noting that charter changes are high-stakes and that RCV may have unknown side effects; he called for broader community dialogue. - Director Perlotti’s Presentation: Tony Perlotti, Director of the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections, detailed implementation challenges: current equipment cannot conduct RCV, software upgrades and certification from the Secretary of State would be needed, costs unknown and likely passed to the municipality. He highlighted potential voter confusion with multi-contest ballots, overvote/undervote issues, and the need for a long runway (several years) for voter education. He noted that RCV results cannot be fully certified until all provisional and absentee ballots are counted (21 days post-election). - Interconnection with Other Amendments: President Kepple explained that if RCV is adopted (eliminating the primary), the salary review ordinance (Ordinance 16-2026) and the council vacancy appointment ordinance (Ordinance 17-2026) would need date adjustments. The ward redistricting ordinance (Ordinance 19-2026) is independent. - Ward Redistricting: Council discussed Ordinance 19-2026. Vice President Baker proposed an amendment to replace the language requiring the Planning Commission's proposals to be adopted unless council finds specific flaws; his amendment would require council to place the divisions on the next docket and make them effective in 90 days if no action is taken. This amendment passed unanimously. Councilman Bullock then proposed a further amendment requiring each ward to include both Lake Erie and the southern boundary of the city to maintain socioeconomic balance, but due to time constraints and differing document versions, discussion was postponed to the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Vote Passed: Vice President Baker’s amendment to Ordinance 19-2026 (ward redistricting) was approved by voice vote. The amendment changes the adoption mechanism: the Planning Commission’s proposed ward divisions go to council’s next docket, and if council takes no action within 90 days, the recommendations take effect. - Deferred: Councilman Bullock’s proposed amendment to require each ward to include Lake Erie and the southern boundary was not voted on; discussion will continue in June. - No Decision on RCV: Council did not reach consensus on which ranked choice voting option (if any) to advance. Further deliberation is scheduled for a future Committee of the Whole meeting in June. - Other Charter Amendments: Discussion of Ordinance 16-2026 (salary reviews) and Ordinance 17-2026 (council appointment process) was postponed until the next meeting, as their language depends on the RCV decision.

The Public Works & Sustainability Committee met on May 11, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the Lakewood City Hall Auditorium to consider a single ordinance authorizing a concession agreement with HELP Foundation, Inc. for food concessions at Lakewood Park and Madison Park. All committee members were present, along with Councilman Bixenstine, city administration, and HELP Foundation representatives. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee unanimously approved the minutes of the March 9, 2026 meeting. Discussion Items - Ordinance 25-2026 – Concession Agreement with HELP Foundation: The ordinance authorizes the Mayor to enter into a one-year concession lease and permit (May 1, 2026 – April 30, 2027) with HELP Foundation, a Lakewood-based nonprofit that provides vocational training for people with disabilities. The agreement covers concession stands at Lakewood Park (Foster Pool area) and Madison Park (Becks Pool area), with no rent during the initial term. HELP Foundation has operated the Lakewood Park concession since 2017. The RFP process received two proposals; HELP was selected based on completeness, experience, and mission. - Key details from discussion: - HELP Foundation will operate both stands, offering hot dogs, nachos, Hershey’s ice cream, slushies, candy, and some Help Harvest items (sandwiches, wraps). They sold over 3,500 hot dogs last season. - The concession serves as a paid summer youth work experience site for individuals with disabilities, in partnership with Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities. - Hours: 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., seven days a week, with prep starting at noon and windows open at 1:00 p.m. Extended hours for events (Friday night movies, Sunday concerts) are possible with advance scheduling. - The city retains the option to extend the lease after the 2026 season without rebidding; cancellation rights are broad for both parties. - Council members expressed strong support for the mission-based partnership and suggested the city amplify HELP’s story through communications. Key Outcomes - Motion to Favorably Refer: Councilman Baker moved to favorably refer Ordinance 25-2026 to full council; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously (all ayes). The ordinance is expected to be adopted at the next regular council meeting.

On Thursday, May 7, 2026, the Lakewood Planning Commission convened at 6:00 PM in the Auditorium at 12650 Detroit Avenue to review and act on five conditional use permit applications for seasonal outdoor sidewalk dining on Madison Avenue. The commission also approved the minutes from the April 2, 2026 meeting and excused a commissioner's absence. All five applications were approved unanimously with conditions, focusing on maintaining a compliant five-foot pedestrian access route (PAR) and adhering to updated accessibility standards under the city's ProWAG ordinance. Consent Calendar - Roll Call: Commissioners present: Nicholas LePoint, Nicholas Miller, Kyle Rees, William Sanderson. Hannah Gall was excused by motion (moved and seconded, all in favor). - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the Thursday, April 2, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (motion, second, all ayes). Discussion Items 1. Docket No. 05-13-26 SOD – Angelo's Pizza (13715 Madison Ave) - Applicant: Karen Hedge (address not specified). Application for a conditional use permit renewal for seasonal outdoor sidewalk dining. City staff (Michelle Nochta) recommended approval, noting the site plan is compliant with ProWAG and the city's outdoor dining regulations, with the condition that the applicant maintain a minimum compliant pedestrian access route of five feet. A small area near the front door may require inspector adjustment. No public comments. Motion to approve with that condition carried unanimously. 2. Docket No. 05-14-26 SOD – Sunday Bird (15027 Madison Ave) - Applicant: Tim Frazee (address: 20020 Laurel Ave, Rocky River). New application for the same location as a previous tenant. The proposed layout (same number of seats and tables) required sidewalk brick repairs to achieve the five-foot PAR. Staff recommended approval with the condition of maintaining that PAR. No public comments. Approved unanimously. 3. Docket No. 05-15-26 SOD – Red Rose Cafe (14810 Madison Ave) - Applicant: Rose Kirschnick (address: 2060 Arthur Ave, Westlake). During inspection, the allowable outdoor dining area needed to be shortened slightly due to cross-slope measurements: 3.8 feet from the building and 15.5 feet in length. Staff recommended approval with the stipulation that the setup remain within the defined area to maintain the five-foot PAR. No public comments. Approved unanimously with that condition. 4. Docket No. 05-16-26 SOD – The Winchester (12112 Madison Ave) - Applicant: Keith Myers (co-owner, address: 22240 Detroit Rd, Rocky River) representing Shane Motolik. No changes were needed from the previous approval (11 feet from foundation, 20 feet across). Staff recommended reapproval with the standard PAR condition. No public comments. Approved unanimously. 5. Docket No. 05-17-26 SOD – McGinty's Pub (13749 Madison Ave) - Applicant: Patrick McGinty (address: 1056 Forest Cliff Dr, Lakewood). Discussion focused on modifications due to construction and cross-slope constraints under ProWAG. The west storefront area was reduced; staff explained that the cross slope (2.08% maximum required by US Access Board) limited available space. The east storefront area was also adjusted. The applicant inquired about using bar rails with stools, which was allowed within the permitted box. A condition was added that the applicant and city staff coordinate during ongoing construction to explore potential improvements (e.g., curb-line adjustments). No public comments. Motion to approve with three conditions: maintain five-foot PAR, follow reduced areas per updated red-line plan, and cooperate on potential modifications during construction. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All five conditional use permits for sidewalk dining were approved unanimously by the commission (votes: 4-0 each, with one excused). - Each approval includes a standard condition to maintain a five-foot compliant pedestrian access route (PAR) and adhere to ProWAG accessibility standards. - For McGinty's Pub, an additional directive required coordination between the applicant and city staff to explore any feasible adjustments during the ongoing construction on Detroit Avenue. - The meeting was adjourned at approximately 6:24 PM.