Public Meetings - Lakewood, Ohio

The Housing, Planning & Development Committee met on February 18, 2026 to discuss two agenda items. The committee approved the minutes of the previous meeting and debated Ordinance 02-2026, which aims to amend the city's weed ordinance to allow managed natural landscapes in front yards while establishing setbacks and height limits for public safety. The discussion focused on buffer dimensions, enforcement approaches, and a technical correction. The ordinance was deferred to a future committee meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (November 10, 2025): The committee unanimously approved the minutes. Discussion Items - Ordinance 02-2026 – Front Yard Plantings Regulations: - Background: The ordinance proposes to amend Chapter 1775 to allow "Managed Natural Landscapes" (e.g., wildflowers, rain gardens, ornamental plants) in front yards while preserving sight lines for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motor vehicles. - Key Provisions: - A 2-foot setback from the public right-of-way and side property lines is required. Within this setback, the area must be maintained as turf-grass lawn or low groundcover not exceeding six inches in height (though Councilman Baker referenced eight inches during discussion). - Beyond the buffer, property owners may plant freely as long as plants do not obstruct the public right-of-way or exceed three feet in height per existing code section 1775.02. - Corner lots have additional sight-line considerations. - Discussion: - Commissioner Parmeley explained the need to update Figures 1 and 2 (diagrams for corner and interior lots) and requested deferral to complete those updates. - Councilman Baker noted public feedback: residents who already maintain natural front yards were concerned about the buffer and the proposed height limit. - Councilman Bullock pointed out a typographical error in the proposed text (incorrect reference to "1175.02" instead of "1775.02") and moved an amendment to correct it, which was seconded and unanimously approved. - Enforcement was discussed: the building department will primarily rely on complaints (estimated 90% complaint-driven) rather than proactive patrols. Newly compliant plantings will be handled with education first. - Grandfathering: existing plantings may be allowed to remain unless they violate public right-of-way rules; the city will take a case-by-case, educational approach. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve Minutes: Carried unanimously. - Amendment to Correct Typo: The committee voted unanimously to amend Section 1775.03(b)(4) to replace "1175.02" with "1775.02". - Deferral of Ordinance 02-2026: The committee voted to defer the ordinance to a future meeting to allow Commissioner Parmeley to update the diagrams (Figures 1 and 2). The ordinance will require one more committee discussion before being forwarded to full Council.

The joint boards convened on February 12, 2026, to review several sign and architectural applications, including new construction, renovations, and signage. The meeting featured public testimony, detailed design discussions, and votes on approvals, deferrals, and a tabling. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the January 8, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously. - Opening remarks were read by the chair. Public Comments & Testimony - 1114 Forest Road (new home): Tara Caravan (1116 Forest Road) argued approval would violate the principle of protecting property value and appearance, stating that the structure would diminish the architectural importance of her home and Clifton Park. She highlighted the removal of trees and the lot’s unsuitability. James Rummer (1126 Forest Road) submitted a historical survey showing the original lot was 3.5 times larger; he said the Board of Zoning Appeals granted variances that placed an impossible task on this board. John Pike (Clifton Park) noted the property is within the Clifton Park South Historic District (National Register) and argued the proposed design does not complement the district's architecture, calling it an “ugly duckling.” The applicant, Jason Leon, responded that trees on his property may need removal due to lot size and referenced ongoing litigation over a neighbor’s fence encroachment. - 1374 West 117th Street (Norton Industries): Tricia Ray, the owner, explained the building’s industrial use, the need for vehicular access to the warehouse, and the challenges of interior geometry. She stated that she has no intention of selling the property and that a garage door is essential for tenant access. Discussion Items - Sign Review - 1340 Madison Avenue (docket 021326): Approved with condition that QR code and phone number are reduced to match scale of logos on glass doors. - 1580 Detroit Avenue (Cleveland Clinic, docket 021526): Approved with condition based on updated elevations. - 2035 Quail Street – Birdtown Brewing (docket 011026): Approved with condition that the B sign on the light-colored masonry be removed. The board noted the unique orientation and tucking of signs behind the building justified approval. - Architectural Review – New and Renovation Projects - 1173 Detroit Avenue – North Coast Apartments (docket 09725): Deferred. The applicant presented revised elevations with restored brick, new windows, balconies, and metal siding. Board members raised concerns about oil canning in the thin metal siding (recommended heavier gauge), the use of vinyl windows at large scale (requested cut sheets), and the need for detailed trim around windows on the metal siding facade. Balconies were suggested to be simplified. The motion to defer passed unanimously to allow the applicant to provide material cut sheets and clarify details. - 1114 Forest Road – New Residential Construction (docket 1214): Approved. The applicant (Jason Leon) addressed previous comments by adding a Colonial-style trim, a dovecote, a full brick chimney, and a landscape plan. Public comment was opposed, citing historic district character and lot size. The board found the design commendable and consistent with the eclectic neighborhood, noting the Clifton elevation resembles typical streetscape conditions. The motion to approve passed with a second. - 15501 Madison Avenue – Vital Pilates and Wellness (docket 010726): Deferred. The applicant presented a rear addition with arched covered patio, structural details, and revised windows. Board members asked for equalization of arch spacing, alignment of second-floor windows, improved window relationships on the east elevation, and centered lighting in alcoves. The board also requested product cut sheets for all exterior finishes. The motion to defer passed. - 1374 West 117th Street – Norton Industries (docket 021626): Deferred. Extensive discussion centered on the proposed overhead garage door and fiber cement lap siding. The board acknowledged the need for vehicular access due to the building’s industrial use and upcoming lot division, but raised concerns about pedestrian friendliness and commercial design guidelines (blank walls, curb cuts). The applicant offered to consider a recessed glass overhead door and a flat-panel siding to address concerns. The board did not reach consensus; a motion to defer passed to allow revised designs. - 1654 Waterbury Road (docket 021726): Tabled at the applicant’s request to revise designs. - 1337 Edenola Avenue (docket 021826): Deferred. The applicant (Tim Bennett) presented updates with better-aligned windows, a raised porch, and a landscape plan. Board members praised improvements but requested further breaking up of the long left side facade through dormer adjustments, widened gable proportions, or stepped walls. The applicant agreed to study options. The motion to defer passed. Key Outcomes - Approvals: - Sign for 1340 Madison Avenue (approved with conditions on logo sizing). - Sign for 1580 Detroit Avenue (approved with condition). - Sign for 2035 Quail Street – Birdtown Brewing (approved with removal of one sign). - New home at 1114 Forest Road (approved with conditions? The transcript indicates approval without additional conditions beyond those already met). - Deferrals: - 1173 Detroit Avenue (North Coast Apartments) – return with material cut sheets and design clarifications. - 15501 Madison Avenue (Vital Pilates) – return with refined window and arch spacing, product information. - 1374 West 117th Street (Norton Industries) – return with revised garage door (glass, recessed) and flat-panel siding. - 1337 Edenola Avenue – return with further massing articulation on the left facade. - Tabling: - 1654 Waterbury Road – tabled for redesign. - Public Comments: The board received extensive testimony on the Forest Road project; all letters and photos submitted were made part of the record. For Norton Industries, the owner clarified industrial needs and the board acknowledged utility constraints. - Next Steps: Applicants for deferred items will appear at a future meeting with revisions. The board encouraged use of the city's Storefront Renovation Program for 1374 West 117th Street.

The Lakewood Finance Committee met on February 9, 2026, at 7:04 PM in the City Hall Auditorium to consider several ordinances related to fund transfers, equipment leases, salary classifications, and 2026 budget priorities. All committee members were present. The meeting was livestreamed on the city's website. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee unanimously approved the minutes of the December 15, 2025 Finance Committee meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Ordinance 04-2026 – Fund Transfers and Advances: Director Mahoney explained that the ordinance authorizes standard transfers from the General Fund to support Winterhurst Ice Rink ($325,000), Office on Aging IIIB ($225,000), and wastewater debt service payments ($500,000 from wastewater treatment plant fees to the Debt Service Fund; $325,000 from wastewater improvements to the treatment plant fund). Additionally, advances from federal funds (e.g., CDBG, Emergency Shelter Grant, HOME Fund) to the General Fund repay loans made in late 2025 due to revenue timing differences. Councilman Bullock clarified that the federal reimbursements have been received. The ordinance was favorably referred to full council unanimously. - Ordinance 05-2026 – Equipment Leases: This ordinance authorizes lease-purchase agreements for $2,375,000 to acquire vehicles and equipment over five years, including a fire medical squad ($385,000), fire special ops truck ($600,000), five police vehicles ($420,000), a refuse packer truck ($415,000), a salt truck ($285,000), and two sewer trucks ($135,000 each). Director Mahoney described the leases as “car loans” with interest rates around 3%, earning interest until drawn down. Councilwoman Strebig noted the rate is better than typical savings. Councilman Evans confirmed the total is slightly less than prior years due to using some cash and avoiding a large fire engine purchase. Councilwoman Hamilton Steiner clarified that the city will own the equipment after five years. The ordinance was favorably referred unanimously. - Ordinance 37-2025A – Salary Classifications and Pay Grades: This ordinance updates pay grade classifications and license/certification supplements for non-bargaining unit employees to mirror recently adopted collective bargaining agreements. Director Mahoney explained the changes simplify payroll. Council President Kepple noted the removal of duplicate entries (master municipal clerk). Councilman Bullock asked about the city architect position, which has been vacant for several years; Mayor George stated the position was not refilled due to workload changes but remains in the ordinance for future need. The ordinance was favorably referred unanimously. - Communication on 2026 Council Budget Priorities: A communication from Councilmembers Bullock, Hamilton Steiner, and Evans outlining continued work on unfunded budget priorities was received and filed by unanimous motion. - Ordinance 33-2025A – Appropriations Amendment (Substitute): Councilman Bullock, sponsor, introduced a substitute amendment to the original ordinance. The substitute strikes the original Section 1 and instead uses whereas clauses to express council’s intent to spend up to $520,000 from the Economic Development Fund (projected balance of $1.5 million at year-end) on specific priorities: composting program ($50,000 already approved), traffic calming ($60,000 after amendment from $50,000), pedestrian and bike safety improvements ($150,000), public art maintenance ($30,000), block club program ($20,000), and other items. The substitute does not compel spending but authorizes the administration to expend up to those amounts. Councilman Bullock emphasized this approach preserves the structurally balanced budget. Director Mahoney noted the process would be better integrated into the June budget discussions. After amending the traffic calming amount to $60,000, the substitute was adopted unanimously, and the ordinance was favorably referred to full council. - Ordinance 34-2025A – General Contracting Authority: This ordinance authorizes the Mayor, Directors, and Procurement Officer to enter into contracts for professional services, supplies, and equipment as outlined in the 2026 budget. No changes were proposed; the ordinance was favorably referred unanimously. - Ordinance 36-2025A – Planning Department Contracting Authority: Councilman Bullock noted a typo in the amount for pedestrian and bike safety improvements (should be $210,000 not $200,000) but deferred to the earlier amendment. The committee amended the authorized officials list to add the Director of Human Services, Director of Human Resources, and replace “Purchasing Manager” with “Procurement Officer” to match other budget ordinances. The amended ordinance was favorably referred unanimously. Key Outcomes - All ordinances were favorably referred to full City Council with unanimous votes. - The committee successfully reconciled the budget priorities process by using non-binding intent language rather than mandatory appropriations, allowing flexibility for the administration. - A future Finance Committee meeting was scheduled to discuss the audit committee proposal and cannabis fund allocations.

The Lakewood Planning Commission met on February 5, 2026, to review meeting minutes, consider a deferral for a Marlowe Avenue application, discuss a proposed ordinance amendment regarding pet grooming services, and receive a communication on a safety analysis for the Madison Avenue and Hilliard Road intersection. All items were handled with votes or recommendations. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes Approval (January 6, 2026): The minutes from the January 6, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously with one abstention (Commissioner Reese). Discussion Items - Docket 02-02-26 – Marlowe Avenue: The applicant requested a deferral to the March 2026 meeting. The Commission voted to defer (all in favor, one abstention). - Docket 02-03-26 – Conditional Use Pet Grooming Services (Ordinance Amendment): The city staff presented a proposed code amendment to treat pet grooming more like a standard retail use, allowing it in C2 and C3 districts, removing the current four off-street parking spaces per groomer requirement, and adding supplemental regulations for ventilation, odor control, and soundproofing. The amendment also distinguishes pet grooming from pet boarding. No public comment was received. Commissioner Miller requested additional definition to differentiate grooming services from boarding/kennels that may have outdoor runs and play areas. The Commission voted to return the amendment to City Council with a recommendation for approval and adoption, conditioned on adding that definition. The motion passed unanimously. - Docket 02-04-26 – Communication from Planning and Development Staff regarding Madison Avenue and Hilliard Road Safety Analysis: John Albuck, a traffic engineer, presented the findings of the safety study. The analysis covered crash data (including a fatality and injury crashes), traffic operations, and recommendations. Short-term recommendations included protected-only left turns (eastbound and westbound on Madison), leading pedestrian intervals (LPI), accessible pedestrian signals (APS), signal timing optimization, and converting Orchard Grove to right-in/right-out. Long-term recommendations included bulb-outs and automated pedestrian detection. Commissioners discussed concerns about bicycle turning movements, transit operations, and the potential closure of Carabel Avenue. The chair summarized three recommendations to forward to City Council: (1) preserve long-term evaluation of closing Carabel Avenue to reduce intersection geometry, (2) additional analysis of bike signaling, and (3) consideration of transit movements. No formal vote was taken on the recommendations. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: January 6, 2026 minutes approved with one abstention. - Deferral Granted: Docket 02-02-26 (Marlowe Avenue) deferred to March 2026. - Pet Grooming Ordinance Amendment: Recommended to City Council for approval and adoption with a condition to further define the distinction between grooming and boarding/kennel uses. Motion passed unanimously. - Safety Analysis: The Commission discussed the Madison Avenue/Hilliard Road safety study and provided three recommendations to City Council (closure evaluation, bike signaling, transit movements). No formal vote was recorded; the recommendations will be forwarded for consideration.

The Committee of the Whole met to continue discussions on the Administration's proposal to relocate City Hall administrative functions to 1470 Warren Road (the former Board of Education building). Assistant Director of Planning provided an objective analysis of four alternatives for addressing space deficiencies, particularly for the police department and municipal court. No votes were taken; council will hold additional meetings before considering bond legislation in March 2026. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the February 2, 2026 Committee of the Whole meeting. Presentation & Discussion - Assistant Director Boss presented an analysis of alternatives under two priorities: (1) provide adequate renovated space for police and court, and (2) consolidate public service access and improve administrative functionality. He evaluated four main options: - Status quo (do nothing) and Option 1 (small side addition) were eliminated because they fail to meet the 30,000 sq ft minimum for police and 6,650 sq ft for court. - Option 2 (large front addition) and Option 3 (relocate administration, with sub-options of the Warren Road building or the Bell Avenue Community Health Center) both meet priority one. Boss noted that the Bell Avenue option lacks room for future growth without displacing the childcare center. - Boss detailed parking analysis, highlighting that the current City Hall site has 186 net spaces for employees and visitors, while the Warren Road site would have significantly fewer on-site spaces but more municipal parking nearby. He also noted that a front addition would require repurposing the first-floor restrooms, reducing public restroom access. - Boss stated that option three provides the most flexibility for future growth and adaptation, including potential relocation of council offices and the auditorium. He assumed that the auditorium could be recreated in the Warren Road building if needed, but warned that losing the auditorium could affect election polling locations. - Councilmember Bullock expressed a preference for making the current City Hall campus work (Option 2), citing the value of keeping a downtown anchor and avoiding displacement of commercial tenants. He questioned the urgency, stating that the city could operate for another five years if needed, and suggested a phased approach to address immediate police locker room needs. - Councilmember Hamilton Steiner noted that moving the auditorium could disenfranchise voters who currently vote at City Hall, but added that any publicly owned building could be used as a polling place. - Councilmember Bixenstine asked about traffic congestion on Warren Road if city hall moves there. Boss responded that a traffic study would likely be needed. - Councilmember Baker questioned the need for 18,000 sq ft of future flex growth in option three, suggesting that administrative space needs are trending downward. He also noted that the Bell Avenue building could serve as a more immediate swing space for displaced departments. - President Kepple acknowledged that the bond anticipation note (BANS) legislation for capital projects, which includes $16.5 million for City Hall renovations, could be postponed from February to March 2026 to allow more discussion. She encouraged council members to submit additional questions to the administration. Key Outcomes - No ordinances were adopted. All items remain in committee. - The BANS legislation timeline will be extended; the Finance Committee will not need to refer legislation until the first meeting in March 2026. - A special Committee of the Whole meeting may be scheduled in late February to continue the analysis and keep the timeline on track. - Councilmembers agreed to send further questions to the administration for clarification on cash flow, design schedules, and cost estimates for each option.

Note: The agenda and transcript indicate the meeting occurred on February 2, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., but the system-provided date is January 30, 2026, at 3:45 p.m. This summary uses the provided date for the title, but the content reflects the February 2 meeting. The Lakewood City Council met for a regular meeting covering a range of legislative items, reports, and public comments. Key actions included adopting a resolution recognizing Black History Month, receiving updates on the City Hall project delivery and a proposed administrative move to the former school board building, deferring multiple capital finance ordinances, and referring a new Host Community Cannabis Fund ordinance to committee. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the January 20, 2026 regular meeting were approved without reading. - Ordinance 01-2026: Adopted to approve the editing and inclusion of certain ordinances into the Codified Ordinances (quarterly cleanup). - Liquor Permit – Jhumma Jhumma (12511 Detroit Ave.): Filed without objection after the Law Department found no statutory reason to object. - January 2026 Finance Vendor Report: Received and filed. Councilmember Strebig asked if vendor locations could be added to determine local purchasing; Director of Finance will investigate. Councilmember Bullock raised the possibility of converting city fleet vehicles to electric or hybrid to reduce fuel costs (noted $43,000+ in fuel expenses for the month). Public Comments & Testimony - Shirley Nelson (President, Lakewood Black Caucus): Spoke in strong support of the Black History Month resolution, emphasizing the importance of celebrating Black history amid current national efforts to “erase” African American contributions. Described the Caucus’s mission to educate, advocate, collaborate, and rejuvenate. - April Stoltz: Shared her personal experience learning Black history in Flint, Michigan, noting that Black history is “all of our history.” She called the resolution an “act of resistance” against efforts to erase stories. Discussion Items - Black History Month Resolution (Items 24 & 25 moved to top): Councilmembers Hamilton Steiner, Kepple, Strebig, Bixenstine, Baker, and others delivered remarks on the history of Black History Month, its origins at Kent State University, and the parallels between historical and current struggles. The resolution was adopted unanimously. - Committee of the Whole Report – January 20, 2026: Presented by President Kepple. The meeting featured a presentation by Carter Edman (AIA Cleveland and Cogence Alliance) on project delivery methods for City Hall. No recommendation was made; council will use the information in upcoming decisions. Report received and filed. - Committee of the Whole Report – January 26 & February 2, 2026: Oral report from President Kepple. The January 26 session included a presentation by Jeff Rink (KeyBank) and Catherine Schwartz (Bond Counsel) on the 2026 finance plan, noting potential savings of $55,000–$60,000 per year over 10 years if bond refinancing occurs. The second half discussed a proposal to move administrative departments to the former school board building on Warren Road, with Liberty Development speaking. Council requested more details on staff space needs and parking costs (structured parking estimated at $35,000 per space). Report received and filed. - Items 4–21 (Ordinances 02-2026 through 14-2026): Following a suspension of rules to read all titles consecutively, council moved to defer these ordinances (second reading or committee referral). Items include front-yard planting regulations (02-2026), trap-neuter-return for community cats (03-2026), multiple appropriations and note issuance ordinances for capital improvements (totaling over $60 million), and refunding bonds. - Host Community Cannabis Fund – Communication (Item 22): Presented by President Kepple. Lakewood received $743,407.77 from the state cannabis excise tax (3.6% of 10% tax) and expects $500,000 annually. The fund would support public safety and accessibility capital priorities (Complete Streets, ADA Transition, female police officer locker rooms). Referred to Finance Committee. - Ordinance 15-2026 – Host Community Cannabis Fund (Item 23): Enacts Section 129.65 to establish the fund. Referred to Finance Committee. - LakewoodAlive Board Report (Item 26): Vice President Baker reported on the January 21 meeting. Ian Andrews left as Executive Director to join the City’s Planning & Development Department; Jo Higgins named Interim ED. The board is re-engaging former members. Report received and filed. - Lakewood Youth Council Report (Item 27): Councilmember Strebig reported on the January 22 meeting. Topics included bike racks, free bus passes, snow-covered sidewalks, support for youth bands and entrepreneurs, and discussion of ICE raids leading to consideration of an Advocacy Committee. Report received and filed. - Animal Safety & Welfare Advisory Board Report (Item 28): Councilmember Hamilton Steiner reported on the January 21 meeting. New officers elected; TNR ordinance reviewed; pet food drive collected 2,500 pounds (nearly 50% increase from April). Monthly need is 1,150 pounds for 250 families. Report received and filed. - Zoning Refresh Project Update (Item 29): Assistant Director Baas provided preliminary drafts of updated Development Standards (general, building design, parking, signs). Referred to Housing, Planning & Development Committee for further discussion. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2026-02 (Black History Month) was adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 01-2026 (codification update) was adopted. - Ordinances 02-2026 through 14-2026 (front-yard plantings, TNR, appropriations, note issuances, bonds) were deferred (second reading or committee action). - Communication and Ordinance 15-2026 (Host Community Cannabis Fund) were referred to the Finance Committee. - Reports on Committee of the Whole, LakewoodAlive, Youth Council, and Animal Safety Board were received and filed. - Zoning Refresh Update was referred to the Housing, Planning & Development Committee. - Finance Vendor Report was received and filed, with follow-ups on vendor location data and fleet electrification. - Liquor permit was filed without objection.

This Committee of the Whole meeting of the Lakewood City Council convened at 6:00 p.m. on January 30, 2026, in the City Hall Auditorium. The primary focus was a presentation by Liberty Development and its project team (architect Berardi Partners and contractor John G. Johnson) regarding the proposed purchase and renovation of the former Board of Education building at 1470 Warren Road for use as a new City Hall administrative center, with the current City Hall to be converted into a police and justice center. Council members raised questions about project costs, parking, employee space needs, building condition, and whether this was the right solution overall. No formal votes were taken; further discussion was scheduled for the following week. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the January 26, 2026 Committee of the Whole meeting without a reading. (Motion carried unanimously) Discussion Items Presentation by Liberty Development and Project Team - Tom Calouris (Liberty Development) introduced his team and provided background on their experience with historic adaptive reuse projects (e.g., the Bulkley Building in Playhouse Square). He emphasized that Liberty has owned the Warren Road building for several years, allowing them to understand its condition intimately. The renovation cost estimate from Liberty for the BOE building (including a small addition) is $16,250,700 (or $445 per square foot), significantly lower than the earlier estimate of $24,152,848 (or $662 per square foot) from Weber Murphy Fox / PMC. The total project (BOE renovation plus City Hall justice center renovation) is estimated at $31,818,797 versus $39,720,945 under Option 3. The presentation included conceptual floor plans for the first floor (public-facing departments: building, public works, vital statistics, water, finance) and second floor (City Council chambers, mayor's office, law department). The design emphasizes historic preservation, new accessible main entrance, gender-neutral restrooms, and an elevator. - Mike Weber and Anthony Valencik (John G. Johnson Construction) discussed their pre-construction and construction experience with municipal projects and their familiarity with the Warren Road building from previous work. They stated the cost estimate is based on detailed knowledge of the building's conditions, including roof, basement waterproofing, and HVAC plans (forced air split systems). They noted that prevailing wage and union agreements are standard for them. - Chief of Staff John Story stated that the administration is compiling answers to councilmember questions and will present them next week. He emphasized that the mayor's intent has always been to find a global solution for all city employees, not just police. Council Questions and Concerns - Councilmember Strebig asked about the employee needs survey conducted by Drew Siley (Liberty). Angie Hamilton Steiner (Administration) confirmed that each department was interviewed about headcount, storage, work style (e.g., building commissioner prefers open plan), and adjacencies. She noted the administration will provide per-department square footage comparisons at the next meeting. - Councilmember Strebig also asked about parking: the site plan provides approximately 66-70 spaces. Administration indicated they will provide visitor counts and employee parking ratio analysis next week. The team noted that not using historic tax credits allowed more parking on site. Calouris mentioned structured parking could be added but at significant cost ($35,000 per space). - Councilmember Hamilton Steiner raised parking concerns for employees and visitors, and asked about employee ability to work from home. Administration noted some flexible schedules exist, but many departments (income tax, water, building) are public-facing and require on-site presence. She also asked about the parking for the existing north building tenants (quilting bee). - Vice President Baker questioned whether the city actually needs this project and expressed desire for third-party analysis of police space needs and broader justification. He noted the proposed building provides about 8,000-12,000 more square feet than current admin space at a time when office space per employee is declining. He also raised practical questions about roof, foundation/basement, and HVAC conditions. The team responded that the roof would be replaced with 30-year warranty materials, basement waterproofing on one wall, and forced air HVAC systems. - Councilmember Bixenstine asked about adaptability of the space for future public gathering uses (community living room). The team confirmed the building's infrastructure can support flexible layouts, including removal of walls for events, and that the building could serve other uses if office needs decline. - Councilmember Evans expressed skepticism that this solution is the right one, despite acknowledging the team's competence. - Councilmember Bullock asked about landscaping details (not yet developed), total square footage vs. current (admin space would increase from about 28,000 sq ft to 35,000-36,000 sq ft), future-proofing (demountable partitions possible), ADA accessibility (100% accessible via new entrance and elevator), and energy efficiency (continuous insulation, new windows, climate action plan considerations). He noted that these are important factors for city investment. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken on any of the bond ordinances or the City Hall space proposal. - Council will continue the discussion at the next Committee of the Whole meeting on February 2, 2026, with the administration expected to provide additional data on: employee count vs. parking, visitor counts per department, per-department square footage comparisons, and analysis of police space needs. - Council President Kepple requested that the administration provide information on the proposed renovation of the current City Hall for police/justice center use, as that remains the primary driver for the project.

The Lakewood City Council Committee of the Whole met on January 26, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium to hear two major presentations: an annual bond council update on the city’s debt and proposed 2026 bond anticipation notes (BANS), and a detailed proposal from the administration and Liberty Development to relocate administrative functions to 1470 Warren Road and convert the current City Hall into a combined police and court justice center. The meeting, which was livestreamed and open to the public, included extensive discussion but no formal votes on the substantive proposals. Approval of Minutes - The minutes of the January 20, 2026 Committee of the Whole meeting were approved unanimously without a reading. Bond Council Presentation – 2026 Financing Plan - Finance Director Renee Mahoney and bond counsel Jeff Rink (KeyBank Capital Markets) and Catherine Swartz (Bricker Graydon Wyatt LLP) presented the city’s 2026 debt plan. - 2026 Bond Anticipation Notes (BANS): A total of up to $59,740,000 in notes is proposed, comprising $32,695,000 to “roll over” outstanding notes from prior years (2024–2025 projects) and $27,045,000 in new money for capital projects. - New money breakdown (per ordinances 06-2026 through 11-2026): - $4,900,000 for street improvements (Bunts Road, Lake Road, Clifton Road, etc.) - $18,300,000 for facility improvements (including $16.5 million for City Hall renovations and Winterhurst Ice Arena) - $850,000 for water improvements - $500,000 for sidewalk improvements - $125,000 for traffic signalization - $2,370,000 for sewer improvements - Refunding bonds: Two ordinances propose issuing up to $32,695,000 in bonds to retire the 2026 BANS and up to $15,845,000 to refund the city’s 2016A bonds, with projected interest savings of $55,000–$60,000 per year over the remaining 10-year life of the 2016A bonds. The refunding would occur in September 2026 if market conditions are favorable. - Debt capacity: The city’s Aa2 credit rating and declining overall debt service (from $9.1M in 2025 to $8.6M in 2026) provide ample capacity. City staff noted that dedicated property tax millage and water/sewer revenues support the debt, and a 10-mill limitation analysis indicates the city would have approximately $61 million in additional legal debt capacity after the proposed borrowings. - Council members asked clarifying questions about debt service trends, overlapping millage, the interplay of income tax pledges, and the impact of potential state property tax reform. No action was taken; the presentation was for information. City Hall Space Proposal – Administration and Liberty Development - Mayor Meghan George and the administration presented the case for moving city administrative offices to 1470 Warren Road (the former Board of Education building), with Liberty Development as the developer. The plan includes renovating that historic building into a modern city hall (consolidating permit, finance, planning, and other departments) and then renovating the existing City Hall into a justice center for police and courts. - Key arguments from the administration: - Superior customer service: a central downtown location with easy transit access (RTA bus lines) and one-stop shopping for residents. - Equitable employee facilities: currently, police station has only 179 sq. ft. per staff member, far below regional peers (e.g., Bay Village 474 sq. ft., Euclid 236 sq. ft.). - Recruitment and retention: cramped, outdated facilities (not substantially touched since 1958) hurt the city’s ability to attract and keep talent, especially police officers. - Operational complexity: building a large addition onto the current City Hall (Option 2 or 3) while maintaining 24/7 operations (dispatch, jail, police) is riskier and more costly than a structured relocation. - Fiscal stewardship: the administration claimed the proposal is cost-effective and that the $16.5 million included in the 2026 BANS for facility improvements is sufficient to begin the project. - Liberty Development presentation (Tom Caluris, Drew Siley): - Liberty offered a transparent, open-book process: they would design and build the Warren Road renovation at-risk, certifying a final cost after design. The city would not have to buy the building until it is completed to the agreed specifications. They emphasized their track record with similar historic rehabilitations (e.g., 1456 Warren Road) and their status as a union contractor. - They indicated their proposal would likely be lower than the earlier $39.7 million estimate from WMF/PMC for Option 4, but no specific new cost figure was provided. - Council concerns and questions: - Vice President Baker and several council members expressed serious reservations about the process and lack of due diligence. Key issues: - No independent facilities assessment, appraisal, or Phase I/II environmental reports paid for by the city. - Concern that the city would be relying on Liberty’s proprietary information and that the city should maintain control over studies and contracts. - The proposed timeline (bond legislation needed by February 17, 2026) felt rushed, with insufficient detail on costs, design, and a development agreement. - Whether a public design-build bidding process would be more appropriate to protect taxpayer interests. - The immediate police space need could be addressed sooner by relocating basement staff to temporary space (e.g., annex or leased space) rather than waiting for the full Warren Road project. - Councilmember Hamilton Steiner questioned how the decision aligns with public priorities (housing affordability, snow removal, etc.) and asked for metrics on what “success” looks like. - Councilmember Bullock noted that options other than the Warren Road purchase (e.g., a smaller addition for police only) had not been fully explored. - The administration and Liberty committed to providing a detailed presentation on design, costs, and delivery model at the next Committee of the Whole meeting. Council members were encouraged to submit specific questions in advance. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on any of the proposed ordinances or the City Hall plan. - The minutes of the January 20, 2026 meeting were approved. - Council will continue the City Hall discussion at the February 2, 2026 Committee of the Whole meeting (originally scheduled for City Hall space, now dedicated to further dialogue). - Council members are to send their questions on the City Hall proposal to the mayor’s office and planning department to help shape the February 2 presentation. - The bond legislation (ordinances 06-2026 through 14-2026) will be carried over for further discussion; a final vote is needed by February 17, 2026, to meet bond rating and sale deadlines.

The Lakewood Committee of the Whole met on January 16, 2026, ahead of the full Council meeting, for an informational session on City Hall space considerations. Council unanimously approved the January 12, 2026 Committee of the Whole minutes, then heard a roughly 20-minute presentation from Carter Edmund of Cogence Alliance on public sector project delivery methods, followed by about 20 minutes of Council questions. No vote was taken on City Hall space options or on a delivery method. Note: the agenda public notice listed the meeting as Tuesday, January 20, 2026, but the provided meeting metadata identifies the date as January 16, 2026. Consent Calendar - Council approved the minutes of the January 12, 2026 Committee of the Whole meeting without a reading, on a motion and second, by voice vote with no discussion. Discussion Items - City Hall space decision context: President Kepple said the amended schedule, referred from the January 5, 2026 COW, would guide upcoming in-depth discussions about the Administration’s proposed City Hall plan. Agenda background communications noted that Bond Counsel’s presentation was moved to January 26, 2026, with February 2, 2026 reserved for additional dialogue, and that the Finance Department requested the 2026 Bond Anticipation Notes (BANS) legislation be adopted by February 17, 2026 because the City plans to go out for a bond rating this year. - Background cost estimates: Agenda materials referenced high-level conceptual cost estimates previously presented by Weber Murphy Fox and Project Management Consultants: $21,425,071 for Option 1 (City Hall renovation with small addition and Annex renovation), $30,984,985 for Option 2 (City Hall renovation with large addition and Annex renovation), and $39,720,945 for Option 3 (Warren Road renovation and City Hall renovation). The materials also referenced the Administration’s expressed desire to use $1.5 million from the Land Acquisition Fund to purchase the Warren Road building and include $16.5 million in the 2026 BANS for its renovation, with additional amounts of $5 million in 2027 and $3 million in 2028 reflected in the budget book. These figures were not the focus of Mr. Edmund’s delivery-method primer. - Project delivery presentation by Carter Edmund: Mr. Edmund, president of Cogence Alliance, a Lakewood resident, vice president of AIA Cleveland, and Cleveland’s city architect from 2017 to 2023, presented a general primer on structuring construction contracts. He emphasized that there is no single best delivery method; owners must weigh risk tolerance, owner capacity, scope, schedule, control, transparency, and project-specific constraints. - Project team and risk: He defined the owner (O), contractor (C), trade contractors (TC), construction manager (CM), architect/design team (A), and landlord (LL), and described risk as unavoidable but manageable through communication, transparency, and contractual structure. He cited an FMI study that 48% of construction-related lawsuits stem from a lack of communication. - Delivery methods covered: - Build-to-suit: A landlord or property holder hires the design/construction team; the end-user has no direct contract with the builder, limiting control. Suitable for tenants, leased space, or standardized projects. - Design-bid-build: The traditional public method; the owner hires an architect, completes the design, and bids the work, usually to the lowest qualified bidder. It offers one shot at a price and is best for straightforward new construction. - Construction Manager at Risk (CMR): A CM selected on qualifications joins early, holds trade contracts, and later provides a guaranteed maximum price (GMP). It enables design assist and collaboration and is appropriate for large, complex, or renovation-heavy projects. - Design-build: A single entity performs design and construction. Traditional design-build is fast but less transparent; bridging design-build uses a criteria architect to define scope and support the owner; progressive design-build uses a two-stage contract, starting with design services and later adding a GMP or lump-sum construction price; integrated design-build includes architects in-house. - Other roles/tools: He also discussed the owner’s representative/construction manager advisor role, design assist, criteria architect versus architect of record, and GMP versus lump-sum contracts. - Council questions and examples: Councilmember Hamilton Steiner requested real-world examples. Mr. Edmund cited Cleveland Clinic work as CMR, and Sean McDermott of Cleveland Metro Parks said Metro Parks uses CMR for vertical projects and design-build for grant-funded projects where a fixed budget is the primary driver. Councilmember Bullock asked about measuring risk, landlord relationships, and how construction/design contracts relate to development agreements; the discussion covered contingency, liquidated damages, and contract privity. Key Outcomes - The January 12, 2026 COW minutes were unanimously approved. - The session was informational only; no action was taken on City Hall space options or on selecting a project delivery method. - Council will continue City Hall space discussions in the coming weeks, with follow-up questions to be collected for Mr. Edmund through the clerks. The amended schedule called for Administration and Bond Counsel presentations on January 26, additional discussion on February 2 and February 9, and BANS legislation readings on January 20, February 2, and February 17.