Written by the reviewer from the ASR + docket; [verbatim-ASR] = quoted machine transcript; [paraphrase] = reviewer's wording, not a quote.
0:00 All right, we will call the full meeting of council to order if you're able please rise for the Pledge of Allegiance
0:25 Now pause for a moment of silence
0:30 Please rise for the Pledge of Allegiance
0:39 Madam Clerk, please call the roll
0:41 Vice President Baker
0:44 councilmember Bixenstein
0:47 Councilmember Block here councilmember Evans
0:50 President Keppel here councilmember Hamilton Steiner here councilmember Street big absent without objection
0:57 I'll excuse the absences of councilmembers Baker and Street big
1:04 Reading and disposal of the minutes of the regular meeting of council held March 16, 2026
1:10 Move to approve without the necessity of a reading second motion has been made and seconded any discussion
1:16 Hearing none all those in favor. I and that motion passes
1:21 Without objection, I'd like to move items 7 through 9 to the top
1:31 Item 7 report from councilmember Hamilton Steiner regarding March report from animal safety and welfare advisory board
1:37 Remember Hamilton Steiner. Thank you president capital dear colleagues
1:41 Let's swab met on Wednesday March 18th at 6 p.m
1:44 In their monthly meeting location the East conference room in Lakewood City Hall
1:48 The group celebrated the passing of the TNR ordinance by Lakewood City Council and as of the meeting time is waiting for the ordinance
1:54 To be signed by Mayor George which has now been signed
1:57 ACO Cremley provided his monthly metric of and status update of animal intakes at the shelter
2:02 If people in the community have the capacity to adopt they are encouraged to come to the shelter and check out the available animals
2:08 The Lakewood animal shelter with the financial support of class supports medical procedures of animals taken in
2:14 The group is focusing on planning their fundraising event for May the date has not yet been scheduled once data settles on they will
2:21 Be looking to recruit volunteers
2:23 Social media social media content was also discussed and plans for online engagement to grow awareness and educate the public on animal
2:29 Issues were considered during this discussion
2:32 It was also shared that the second full week of April is animal control officer appreciation week
2:37 Based upon members interest in recognizing this week councilmember Strabeck
2:41 And I have introduced a resolution to honor and celebrate our animal control officers. I
2:47 Move to receive and file this communication
2:49 Second motion has been made and seconded any discussion
2:54 Hearing none all those in favor. I and that motion passes
2:58 Item eight communication from council members Hamilton Steiner and Strabeck regarding animal control officer appreciation week
3:05 member Hamilton Steiner your president couple dear colleagues mayor George and directors the National Animal Care and Control Association
3:12 Designates annually the second full week in April as animal control officer appreciation week
3:17 This is a time to recognize the professionals who serve Lakewood and work hard to protect and care for animals and in so doing keeps our
3:25 Animal control officers are very much first responders sometimes responding to situations of cruelty
3:31 Intervening when needed and working to rescue animals. They are the voice of the voiceless speaking on behalf of the animals
3:38 Lakewood's animal control team works closely managing the Lakewood animal shelter and works with Lakewood animal safety and welfare board
3:44 The swab and citizens committee for Lakewood's animals and shelter cloth
3:48 Together animal control and shelter staff ensure that the public is safer through the proper care and safety of animals in Lakewood and working with
3:55 Claws being provided with financial support for medical care costs while a swab focuses on advocacy awareness
4:02 Education and fundraising efforts to support pet families with their pet food needs
4:07 We encourage all to join us in celebrating Lakewood's animal control team
4:11 Thank you, I'll move to receive and file that communication second motion has been made and seconded discussion
4:19 Hearing none all those in favor. I and that motion passes
4:25 resolution 20 26 20 a
4:27 Resolution to join with the National Animal Care and Control Association to designate April 12th, 2026 to April 18th
4:34 2026 as animal control officer appreciation week in the city of Lakewood and to recognize the professionals
4:41 dedicated work performed each day by Lakewood's animal control officers
4:45 Move to adopt second motion has been made and seconded discussion
4:50 Member Hamilton Steiner. Thank you president couple
4:53 I'm happy to co-sponsor this resolution with Councilperson Stravick and happy that a little swab member brought animal control officer appreciation week to my
5:02 Lakewood's ACOs are truly wonderful human beings doing the hard work of protecting both animals and humans
5:07 This is not easy work as the animals that may be victims of inhumane conditions are not able to speak for themselves
5:13 So the human caretakers and these officers speak for them and serve as their advocates educators and protectors
5:20 Your collaborative efforts with the Lakewood animal safety and welfare board and Citizens Committee for Lakewood's animals and shelter
5:26 ACOs ensure that animals brought into the animal shelter are taken care of
5:30 Nourished back to care when needed and prepared for adoption in just my short time serving on council
5:35 And now if council lays on to the swab
5:37 I've seen just how much Lakewood and the ACOs care for these animals Lakewood is truly special and our ACOs are no different
5:43 Thank you for your service the vulnerable population of Lakewood residents our animals and animal population
5:54 Other council members
5:57 Madam president member bullet. So thank you to my colleague councilwoman Hamilton Steiner and in absentia
6:04 Councilwoman streeper for bringing this up and really thanks to the leadership of the animal advocacy community and
6:11 city the administration and
6:18 Excuse me Gary Crumley and and officer Kerr and burkowski for all you do
6:24 In addition to the companion animals, there's quite a lot of wildlife in Lakewood and there are times when we get calls
6:30 What are we gonna do about the foxes along the lake?
6:33 Or the deer or the wild turkeys or the skunks or the there's quite a lot going on and in my neighborhood
6:39 Happy to report the Easter bunny lives and maybe multiple Easter bunnies
6:43 To my kids delight. So so so the fact that the city
6:48 invests and invests more than just a little bit of resources is I think meaningful and another part of
6:55 Lakewood stronger than the minimum approach to how we serve our community and then once again
7:01 I think we said this in a recent meeting that the community then does a handshake with the city government by adding
7:08 Humaneness in the care and the standards and the resources that are available, especially to companion animals, but across the board
7:15 So I do agree. It's it's really
7:18 We're celebrating all of that and and this has been going on for years
7:24 All of us which I'm happy to say so
7:33 Positive that our community cares so much
7:37 Councilmember Bixenstein
7:39 Thank You. President Keppel. Thank you. Councilperson Hampton signer and councilperson Street big for
7:45 Bringing this to us this evening, you know Lakewood is
7:48 one of if not the most densely populated cities in the city of Ohio and it's also very densely populated with with pets and
7:56 our ACO does a tremendous job of
7:59 Protecting animals and people and they're performing an essential community service. I first hand have benefited from having
8:11 The kid leaves a the fence on unlatched and suddenly the dogs in the park and I've had ACO helped me before and
8:18 the only thing I can cannot agree with
8:21 Councilperson Hamilton center is the voice of the voiceless because my dog most certainly has a very loud voice
8:27 But no, thank you very much for bring this to our attention and thank you ACO members for all you do for our community
8:36 And I'll just I'll just add to that that
8:39 Animal control supervisor crumly also served the city
8:43 previously as a police officer and so we just want to acknowledge your continued service and
8:48 I have witnessed firsthand
8:51 both professionalism and compassion and
8:54 willingness to work with the citizen volunteers and it's very much appreciated as well as the other ACOs I
9:01 Have had we my family's had the opportunity to have adopt two cats from the animal shelter
9:07 they're both awesome and they've been well, we're well taken care of before we got them and
9:13 Put on a few pounds since then but but are you know, we're really grateful for the service of the animal control officer
9:22 any further discussion
9:25 Okay here after I presume we will adopt this having heard the comments once we vote on this
9:31 We do have a ceremonial copy. So we'll invite
9:35 I see a so crumly and then anyone else who'd like to join us up front. I see some CCL AS folks
9:41 The swab folks. So if anyone would like to join us up front, we'll get a quick picture
9:45 Before we go on with the rest of the meeting
9:48 All right with that I am on the motion to adopt all those in favor I and that motion passes
9:55 All right. We're gonna take a
11:15 Before we go on we actually do have someone signed in for public comment on this topic
11:19 So before we do that, I'd like to invite up Nancy Binder
11:30 Okay, I'm Nancy binder I'm the chair of law swamp we work with Gary quite a bit and
11:37 Gary is responsible for my newest little addition a mulchy that was left on Lake Road and forest road
11:45 Just kind of left and he is getting a lot of dogs that way now, so I hope the city
11:52 Can realize that's a new issue that the city has and that he's handling it very very well
12:01 Compassionately making sure they go to the correct or loving homes
12:07 Gary had very unusual start to his job
12:11 There were there are three employees in the department to a retiring and the third one
12:19 Left for another opportunity
12:21 As he started so he had the ultimate blank slate of a department. Fortunately Jack came stayed and
12:29 Trained him a bit, but that is a difficult thing to do
12:34 his detective skills, I think helped because his patience is
12:44 He has built the staff to the current staffing
12:49 He does not know this
12:52 But I have talked with almost everybody that has worked there and has stayed or left
13:00 Everyone has said nothing but nice things they have all told me and in in the exact words
13:07 They like having him as their boss
13:11 And he's also a mentor to his staff
13:15 And he helps them make personal decisions. He helps them
13:21 Doing what's best for them. He is a kind compassionate person with everybody who works with I
13:28 Want the city to recognize that with this award as well
13:35 He has guided blah swab through a very arduous task of getting a TNR
13:42 Ordinance changed that was not an easy task for anyone
13:47 Gary kept us online on city cities do have rules and
13:52 That is where we will what we will follow. We'll do what we can to guide the ordinance, but we were not
14:05 But I want to let the city know that some people
14:09 Really truly and sincerely deserve recognition and Gary is the one
14:26 And in one report from Finance Committee meeting held March 23rd, 2026
14:39 Since some vice president Baker
14:42 Absent tonight, I'll read this for him
14:44 Dear colleagues the Finance Committee met on March 23rd to continue conversation on two ordinances
14:50 The first was ordinance 15
14:53 2026 which proposes to establish a new fund within the city budget into which new revenues
14:59 Related to the sale of cannabis shall be deposited
15:02 the committee discussed language that would limit expenditures from this fund to certain health and safety related purposes and
15:09 Introduced a substitute version based upon discussion at the previous meeting
15:14 Additional amendments were made to the substitute version to ensure that the language was specific and permissive enough
15:20 To include the needs of the Department of Human Services
15:23 The committee also expressed a desire to closely monitor expenditures from the newly established fund over the next few years
15:31 Director Mahoney agreed to provide this information in the future for committee discussion
15:36 next the committee addressed ordinance 27
15:39 2025 as originally introduced ordinance 27 2025
15:44 Proposed to eliminate the city's audit committee based on previous discussion and committee
15:49 The committee moved to approve a substitute version that instead of eliminating the audit committee
15:54 Assigned the Finance Committee to serve as the audit committee and requires an annual post audit public meeting with the director of finance and the auditor
16:03 One minor technical amendment was made to the substitute version
16:07 committee members noted that holding an annual post audit public hearing will bring more attention and
16:13 Transparencies to the city's annual audit processes and potentially engage more members of the public
16:19 Notwithstanding the city's recent outstanding audits
16:22 The committee agreed that the proposed revised process would be beneficial both
16:27 Substituted and amended ordinances were recommended for adoption by council. I'll move to receive and file that report
16:34 Second motion has been made and seconded any discussion
16:39 Hearing none all those in favor. I and that motion passes
16:44 Item to substitute ordinance 15
16:47 2026 an ordinance to take effect immediately to enact section 129 65
16:52 The codified ordinances entitled host community canvas fund to provide guidance
16:56 Regarding the use of new tax revenues related to the sale of cannabis move to adapt
17:02 Second motion has been made and seconded any discussion
17:06 Hearing none all those in favor. I and that motion passes
17:11 Item three substitute ordinance 27 2025 an ordinance to take effect immediately amending chapter 160
17:19 audit committee of the codified ordinances of the city of Lakewood
17:23 So this one there were
17:26 Between the committee meeting and tonight's meeting
17:32 Just sort of typo II
17:35 Clarification kind of things so
17:40 For that if we open up the ordinance and you look in the third whereas clause
18:00 Yeah, the madam madam president, I think you think you had the right okay. All right, so I don't need to
18:27 Sorry, I'm just getting some clarification. Okay. So yeah, so the substitute
18:38 That's what you're looking for has the
18:45 It would be in the third
18:48 Whereas clause adding
18:52 The functions of the audit committee there and then would also
19:05 In strike dissolved prior to your end when the volunteer terms expire
19:09 In that whereas clause
19:12 Provide for the usual daily operation of the city in that the functions of the audit committee should be
19:19 Assigned to council's finance committee for efficiency and transparency
19:22 So these were just sort of left over from
19:26 Version so it would read then instead
19:31 in that whereas clause
19:33 Provide for the usual daily operation of the city in that the
19:37 Council's finance committee for efficiency and transparency
19:42 Madam president, yes, I'll move that the
19:48 Move that the version
19:51 recommended by committee
19:56 include the changes that you just
20:02 Third whereas clause. Thank you. I will second that
20:06 Any further discussion
20:10 Madam president, yes
20:11 So if I read this correctly as you were explaining I think the other red lines in this document if we scroll up and down
20:17 Those other red lines are already included in the committee
20:22 Recommended version so the only new
20:25 Proposed amendment in the amendment. I just made a new second. It is that language in the third whereas clause. That's correct
20:31 So it doesn't fundamentally change the
20:34 Language of the ordinance. It's just clarifying that third whereas clause that had the language of the previous
20:41 Okay, thank you. And I'm of course happy to support my motion and appreciate that the
20:48 These points were identified and caught
20:51 right any further discussion on the motion to substitute
20:57 All right hearing none all those in favor aye, and that motion passes and then I will move to adopt a substituted
21:05 Second motion has been made and seconded any further discussion. I'm madam president councilmember Bullock
21:11 So just reflecting on the committee work. I want to thank finance director Mahoney who is not here
21:17 Right there now while assistant director Eddie is also a member of a crack department
21:23 And I thought the finance committee did a lot of substantive and thoughtful work in both this and the preceding ordinance appreciate
21:30 And I appreciated the collegiality
21:34 We are essentially setting ourselves up in this and the previous ordinance to
21:43 Pair of budgeting tools going forward on some new revenues and then on reviewing all revenues here
21:49 And so it's I appreciate the high level of skill that we're proceeding with
21:58 All right, any further discussion
22:00 Hearing none on the motion to adopt all those in favor. I and that motion passes
22:06 Item for report from Health and Human Services Committee held March 23rd, 2026
22:10 That would be councilmember Striebeck
22:16 Councilmember Striebeck had asked me to read. Oh great. That's okay. Yep councilmember Hamilton-Steiner, okay
22:22 Your colleagues the Health and Human Service Committee met on Monday, March 23rd
22:27 To hear the presentation from the community health action team chat on their annual report. Chad has a day off
22:31 I'm going to read the report. I'm going to read it. I'm going to read the report
22:35 I'm going to read it. I'm going to read it. I'm going to read it. I'm going to read it
22:39 Annual report Chad has identified five priority areas from from the community health needs assessment of 2022
22:45 Access to behavioral health food access a community resource guide adaptive and middle school programming and housing
22:52 We had an engaged discussion on three of the priorities received the latest addition in the resource guide for personal review
22:58 But due to time constraints missed the report on housing
23:01 This report could be a presentation to the committee of the whole from the planning department at another time
23:06 David Boz assistant director of planning gave me an overview of chat and began the conversation with the description of this committee
23:12 stakeholders and challenges
23:14 Kristen Broadbent of the three Arjit foundation spoke about behavioral health the health care providers roundtable the complex
23:21 Complexities of the health care system and a collaboration with case western reserve students to create the resource guide
23:27 Miss Broadbent spoke about the possibilities of developing a co-responder program known as first call crisis assistance and local linkage
23:35 That has been established in shaker heights coupling mental health care professionals with first responders
23:40 She stated that the program has reportedly improved responses to mental health emergencies in that community
23:45 And that the health and human services department will take over as the lead entity for coordinating behavioral and health initiatives
23:52 assistant director of health and human services laura jessily
23:56 Spoke about the 25 county budget cuts the funding that are retroactive to january 1st
24:02 She and director barry are proactively assessing needs and opportunities for collaboration with more demands and fewer resources
24:09 Wait times for response to requests may increase as they continue to serve all residents
24:14 Kate Ingersoll from the healthy lakewood foundation spoke about food access in the schools
24:19 And exploring a new summer program at harrison elementary school the reimbursement program for the program is complex
24:24 And they are working with community partners to address the logistics
24:28 Awareness that the summer electronic benefits transfer ebt needs improvement as well as the supplemental nutrition assistance program
24:36 Chat member mark walters from the lakewood city schools spoke about the special needs and middle school programming
24:41 The schools are providing adaptive swimming lessons and have partnered with the empowers sports to expand the programs
24:47 Lakewood recreation has 54 activities planned for middle school age students in addition to hto program this summer
24:54 Kevin born crow from the lakewood family ymca spoke and reflected on potential partnerships
24:59 After reviewing the community health needs assessment
25:01 He noted that the ymca has been working on a lot of the same needs for a while now and there is some overlap
25:07 All city council members in attendance joined the conversations with enthusiastic support for the community needs and offered opinions and suggestions
25:18 Move to receive and file that communication second motion's been made and seconded any discussion
25:25 Viewing none all those in favor. Aye and that motion passes
25:31 Item five report from housing planning and development committee meeting held march 30th 2026 councilmember evans
25:40 Dear colleagues the housing planning and development committee met at march 30th 2026 to discuss the communication from assistant planning director
25:47 boss regarding the zoning refresh standards update
25:50 Assistant director boss provided an overview of the proposed changes to the zoning code regarding development standards that were discussed the last
25:56 Latest meeting of the zoning and planning advisory committee zpack
26:00 Explain that the development standards will be addressed across four chapters
26:04 And that one of the goals is to make development process more approachable for both individual property owners as well as developers
26:10 During the presentation council members had the chance to ask questions and provide feedback on the direction of the proposed updates
26:17 Council members express interest in further exploring topics such as how the zoning code can be used as a tool to encourage affordable housing
26:23 How to address the garage requirement section of the code and to strengthen regulations around sign standards
26:29 I encouraged all council members to share additional questions and feedback with me
26:32 So that I can compile everything into one document that can be shared with the planning department for further discussion consideration
26:39 Assistant director boss stated the next update to council will be placed on the june dockets
26:43 The final draft will be introduced to council in july. I'm very pleased with the progress
26:47 So in direction of the zoning refresh project and appreciate the administration keeping council
26:52 updated on each project milestone respectfully submitted
26:56 And just as an aside i'd like to say this is
26:59 something not top of mind for most folks in the city the zoning code, but
27:04 This is a once in decades opportunity to shape how the city's going to look moving forward
27:09 so it's a very important project and
27:11 Many thanks to the administration and to particularly the planning department for all the hard work on this. It's very much appreciated
27:17 Thank you, and i'll move to receive and file this report second motion has been made and seconded any discussion
27:24 Madam president councilman book i'll just add my thanks. I think you know mayor and planning director
27:29 bington, I think the project is going well and it's uh
27:33 How do you eat an elephant type project?
27:35 And the only way you can do it is a little bit at a time steadily
27:38 And I know we've been doing these updates for me. It's been beneficial because we're
27:43 we're allowing ourselves a chance to
27:46 Dig in and also think about it and dialogue about it
27:49 So I think it's been a real model for how to take on a big strategic and difficult
27:54 Not difficult, but but just a large and high impact
27:59 Topic that really doesn't always get
28:03 Addressed as councilman evans just said so so i'm appreciative of how it's going in the dialogue between
28:10 Council and the administration. Thank you
28:15 All right, any further discussion?
28:17 On the motion to receive and file the report all those in favor aye and that motion passes
28:23 item six report from committee the whole held march 30th 2026
28:28 This committee of the whole I had to be absent due to a family
28:32 Medical emergency and vice president baker chaired it
28:35 But unfortunately vice president baker has been gone and has not had an opportunity to review
28:39 This report so what i'm going to move to defer
28:46 Motions been made and seconded any discussion hearing none all those in favor. Aye and that motion passes
28:53 Item 10 communication from president keppel regarding council's 2026 appointments to the citizens advisory committee
29:02 Your colleagues as you know
29:03 The citizens advisory committee performs the important work of evaluating federal funds and matching them with community needs
29:10 This letter serves to make official the following appointments to the 2026 cac
29:16 Based upon their professional backgrounds commitment to lakewood and willingness to lead
29:20 I'm confident that the above individuals are exceptionally well suited to serve in this role
29:25 With these appointments council has filled all of its vacancies on the 2026 cac
29:30 I would like to thank my colleagues for formalizing these appointments in a timely manner
29:35 I'll move to receive and file that communication
29:37 Second motion has been made and seconded any discussion
29:41 Uh, i'll just say add
29:43 Uh, we thanks our thanks to those who are willing to serve and all who applied to serve
29:49 We look forward to their recommendations again this year
29:52 All right, any further discussion?
29:54 Hearing none all those in favor. Aye and that motion passes
29:59 Item 11 announcement from council member bixenstein regarding appointment to the community relations advisory commission
30:07 Council member bixenstein
30:08 Thank you, madam president dear colleagues with this letter
30:11 I hereby appoint ward four resident pixie mallow to the community relations advisory commission elcrack
30:17 The remainder of an unexpired term ending december 31st 2027
30:21 I had the opportunity to meet pixie during the ward four council interview process and gained a great deal of respect for them
30:27 their diverse background and their
30:29 Contributions to our community
30:31 I'm confident that pixie will bring passion and commitment to this role and i'm excited to see what's next for
30:36 Elcrack with pixie as part of this commission
30:39 um sincerely matt bixenstein
30:42 um just to add to that, you know, sometimes when you
30:45 Meet someone in an interview setting it, you know doesn't necessarily
30:49 Um, it can be awkward doesn't necessarily make for a harmonious relationship. But in this case, uh pixie's been
30:55 very gracious and terrific to work with
30:58 And you know i've come to root to get to know them better and learn more about their background pixie is a
31:05 A veteran of the u.s. Navy
31:08 And has a a long 12 year career in management and leadership experience
31:13 And has also been extremely active in our communities. So
31:16 I'm really excited that they're willing to to take on this role and I have no reservations in appointing pixie to this commission
31:29 I'll move to receive and file that
31:32 Second motion's been made and seconded and i'll just add i'm pleased to see that appointment. Um
31:39 certainly enjoyed pixie's interview for that award for and thought that they had a lot of
31:46 A lot to contribute so i'm glad to see that opportunity
31:49 Any further discussion?
31:50 Hearing none all those in favor. Aye. And that motion passes item 12 report from council member street big regarding
31:57 March meeting of the community health action team
32:01 Councilmember hamilton steiner. Thank you president capitol dear colleagues on friday
32:08 2026 the community health action team chat met for its quarterly meeting
32:12 Kate ingress all led the discussion to prepare for the chat and report presentation to the city council health and human services committee
32:19 The group answered new hhs committee chair cindy streubig's questions about the report and brought her up to speed on current developments and trends
32:27 Also included in the agenda discussion were updates to the framework of the chat organization
32:32 2026 priorities and a work plan for the year
32:35 Chat will be reorganizing around an updated conceptual framework rather than being held accountable for achieving specific outcomes
32:42 The new framework includes convening and coordinating across city departments schools foundations and community organizations
32:49 Identifying community health needs as they emerge informed by the community health needs assessment chna framework
32:55 Advocating for action and priority issues networking among community partners and sharing diverse perspectives to facilitate collaborative work
33:03 Maintaining critical infrastructure like the community resource guide that requires cross-section oversight
33:09 2026 priorities include maintain the community resource guide as a critical infrastructure connecting residents to available resources
33:16 sustain critical links between member organizations in support of
33:20 Continuing to advance the transition items as well as other community health issues that may be brought to the team by member organizations
33:28 support emerging priority or areas including early learning center planning transition
33:33 Involving key stakeholders in collaborative conversation to overcome entrenched thinking
33:38 Lg lbgtq plus resources and support determining how to move forward collectively and community centers support for you
33:46 Sustainable approaches to support programming that provides equitable access to opportunities for all families
33:52 Meet quarterly use the chna as the reference point to inform decision making plan and conduct a five-year update to the chna
34:00 sincerely cindy street
34:03 Thank you, um, i'll move to receive and file that report
34:07 Second motion has been made and seconded. We do have one e-comment that will be included in the record
34:13 Um any further discussion
34:17 Hearing none all those in favor. Aye and that motion passes
34:21 Item 13 report from councilmember strubig regarding march meeting of community recreation education commission
34:29 Oh, oh great. Okay. We're changing it up. All right councilmember vixenstein
34:41 On tuesday march 10th 2026 the community recreation education commission met at the taff center for innovation
34:47 The meeting was called in to order and the coordinator of community recreation education leslie favor croakman gave a report
34:54 The spring summer book program booklet is being finalized and registration is beginning
34:59 Volleyball and basketball winter programs are concluding in spring softball baseball and soccer are getting started
35:05 Field maintenance has begun in preparation for a busy season and meetings with the city are scheduled to coordinate this maintenance
35:11 The community leaders breakfast is scheduled for march 19th and the purple and gold classic is on april 18th
35:19 Mark walter gave report on increased participation in basketball softball football volleyball and boys soccer
35:25 Girls soccer numbers were down possibly due to the popularity of volleyball football numbers are up
35:30 But not at the middle schools and therefore not at the high school
35:34 There is some desire to add flag football to fifth and sixth grade in addition to tackle football. They're exploring this option
35:40 Vice president paul porter gave a brief report on the facts of the upcoming school levy
35:44 Including millage percentages of property taxes taxes received and the voter registration date
35:51 Thank you cindy strubig
35:55 Thank you, um, i'll move to receive and file that communication
35:58 Second motion has been made and seconded
36:01 Discussion just because it was mentioned there about the voter registration deadline. That is tonight. So if you haven't um
36:08 So if you need to update your voter reg get that in you got a couple hours or got one hour less than
36:13 53 minutes. All right. Um
36:16 Any further discussion?
36:18 Hearing none all those in favor. Aye and that motion passes item 14 report from council member
36:24 Strubig regarding march meeting of the lakewood youth council
36:30 It's very thoughtful of council member strubig to pass pass this along so thank you council member evans
36:35 Dear colleagues the lakewood youth council met on thursday march 26 in the auditorium at lakewood city hall
36:41 advisor amy chodzin reviewed the article one purpose statement and encouraged conversation
36:46 To discuss the purpose of youth council
36:48 Are they providing a voice for the youth community are they interacting with and informing community leaders?
36:53 Are they providing opportunities for youth development are they allowing for engagement with topics regarding youth health and safety youth advocacy?
37:01 community relations and community outreach
37:04 We talked about the youth forum and they have that they held the suggestion box at the community festival
37:09 Surveys for youth bands to participate in competitions and designs for bike racks
37:14 They have invited community leaders to attend and speak at the meetings and will better encourage other youth to join committees
37:20 After this discussion the meeting was called to order by mel
37:26 environmental committee chair danica herberger gave a report that she has been in contact with tree advisory the tree advisory board
37:33 chair of mental health committee
37:35 Uh era lulo reported that on the survey that she was preparing for a battle of the bands competition
37:41 The group helped her with creating a survey
37:43 Sean miller proposed reconsideration of creating an advocacy committee
37:47 The group discussed the differences between the advocacy and outreach committees and voted to create this committee
37:52 Mel announced that attendance requirements will be reviewed by the executive committee
37:56 Advisor choson reminded the group that new officers will be elected in june and to consider prior commitments before deciding to run for office
38:03 Sincerely cindy strebig and I will make a motion to receive and file this communication
38:08 second motions been made and seconded any discussion
38:12 Hearing none all those in favor. Aye and that motion passes
38:17 Item 15 communication from finance director. Mahoney regarding 2026 second and third quarter transfer ordinance 2027
38:23 Tax budget 2027 tax advance resolution and 2027 tax rate resolution filling in for director
38:30 Mahoney tonight is assistant director edie
38:35 Dear president couple and members of council attached are the following items for your consideration
38:41 The 2026 second and third quarter transfer ordinances each reflect 25% of the total anticipated transfers between funds
38:49 That were included within the 2026 appropriations
38:53 A resolution to allow the city of lakewood finance department to submit the
38:58 2027 tax budget to the kayahoga county fiscal officer for a review
39:03 And approval to maintain the city's existing property tax rate of 17.4 mills
39:08 The tax budget is a projection of revenues and expenditure is completed primarily to establish the city's
39:15 existing property tax rate for the
39:19 2027 collection year and is attached to this correspondence
39:23 The corresponding resolution must be adopted by city council and submitted to the county fiscal officer on or before july 15th
39:31 2026 in accordance with the provisions of sections
39:35 5705.28 and 5705.30 of the ohio revised code
39:42 Also attached is a resolution authorizing the director of finance to request from the kayahoga county fiscal officer
39:49 real and personal property tax and special assessment advances when collected and available to the city in
39:59 In the tax advance program enhances the city's cash flow management and funds invested amount
40:04 The county fiscal officer requires the city to file this resolution stating the city's intent to receive advances in 2020
40:13 2027 prior to october 1st 2026
40:17 Finally attached is a tax rate resolution maintaining the city of lakewood's property tax rate of 17.4 mills for taxes collected in
40:27 sincerely renee mahoney
40:32 I'll move to refer that communication to finance committee
40:36 Second motion has been made and seconded any discussion
40:40 Hearing none all those in favor. Aye and that motion passes
40:45 And then I will move to suspend the rules to read item 16 through 20 together
40:50 Motions been made and seconded discussion
40:54 Hearing none all those in favor. Aye and that motion passes
40:59 Item 16 ordinance 22 2026 an ordinance to take effect immediately authorizing the transfer in advance of certain funds
41:06 item 17 ordinance 23 2026 an ordinance to take effect
41:11 Immediately authorizing the transfer in advance of certain funds item 18 resolution 2026 21 a resolution to take effect immediately
41:19 Approving the tax budget of the city of lakewood for the year 2027 and authorizing the filing of same with the kayahoga county
41:29 item 19 resolution 2026 22 a resolution to take effect immediately requesting the kayahoga county fiscal officer to draw
41:37 In the kayahoga county treasurer to pay the city of lakewood director of finance in advance of all real
41:43 Personal property and special assessments collected in the year 2027 in such amounts as may be requested and available
41:51 2026 23 a resolution to take effect immediately accepting the amounts and rates as determined by the budget commission and authorizing the necessary tax levies
42:00 And certifying them to the county fiscal officer
42:08 Okay, I will move to refer item 16 through 20 to finance second motion has been made and seconded any discussion
42:15 Madam president member brook. Thank you for the referrals and the I look forward to the discussion. I know
42:23 Director molly's not here, but a little little bit of discussion tonight as a preview. So first
42:29 You know my my understanding of the budget process. This is
42:36 Ministerial series of
42:38 Um, well i'm referring particularly to tax related ordinances
42:48 Portion of our revenue side of our annual city budget and
42:55 At least one of them maybe two of them are mechanical in nature about how the city and the
43:00 county interact with each other and
43:03 on what schedule and we're
43:06 Annually affirming that we would like to continue the way that we collect our taxes
43:11 The tax budget I think has remained the same for years and years and years
43:16 So I believe what the finance department is doing here is simply introducing
43:23 A series of budget ordinances or tax budget ordinances on schedule on time
43:28 So that we can be prepared and discuss them with free readings well in advance of due dates, which are mid-summer, correct?
43:36 Sorry miss eddie is saying yes
43:39 so the the the one kind of teaser portion i'd like to
43:45 Prepare for discussion and committee is that the fact that these days tax
43:50 Costs are high property valuations are high really the latter because of the former
43:56 I said that backwards
43:58 former because the latter the
44:00 high increase in property valuations is
44:03 Was was already underway in lakewood and then covet hit and so it's all the more people have been feeling affordability
44:08 So I know that's on some people's minds. So the question would be whether there's some
44:14 Strategic nature to this discussion this year that the city
44:18 Is contemplating or may contemplate as we get into this?
44:23 As opposed to you know, normally our discussion has been we want to make sure
44:27 That we're traffic copying all of our budgetary
44:31 Ordinances correctly so that we're we're on track and we're prepared to be a good steward of funds and report
44:39 An audit all those funds and I appreciate all of that and the city's done a good job of that
44:45 More than good job because we're getting annual audit awards
44:48 But in terms of what's affordable for residents and what the city's needs are
44:54 I personally am interested in in digging into this a little bit without
45:00 Trying to decide beforehand where that could lead
45:04 but but just reflecting on
45:08 The high costs that we're seeing in our in our city and if we may devote some analysis to that as as it
45:17 Is reflected in these proposed documents
45:23 All right any further discussion?
45:26 On the motion to refer item 1620 to the finance committee all those in favor. Aye and that motion passes
45:34 Item 21 communication from public works director gordon regarding 2026 healthy urban tree canopy program director gordon
45:43 Uh, thank you. Dear president keppel members of city council
45:46 Excuse me. The city's division of streets and forestry was awarded fifty thousand dollars from the 2026 healthy urban tree canopy program
45:55 The 2026 program aims to provide financial assistance to eligible municipalities to help improve the impact of climate change
46:03 Assist with reforestation efforts in kayahoga county and reverse the trend of tree canopy loss
46:10 The division of streets and forestry is committed to protecting enhancing its urban tree canopy
46:15 And we'll use this grant to help offset the general fund costs of the 2026 spring and fall tree planting program
46:23 The city of lakewood plan at this time is to plan an estimated 350 or 400 trees throughout targeted residential neighborhoods parks
46:30 And along public right of ways
46:32 With a focus on areas identified as equity zones and those with low existing tree canopy
46:38 This funding will enable the city to increase species diversity accelerate planning efforts
46:43 And procure high quality materials pursuit into lakewood codified ordinance
46:48 Section 111.14 b this letter serves as notice of our intention to accept these funds
46:54 Please let me know if you have any further questions
46:58 Thank you, i'll move to receive and file that communication
47:02 Motions been made and seconded discussion
47:06 I'll go councilmember bixson signed first and then councilmember evans
47:10 Thank you, madam president. Uh, just wanted to say thank you to director gordon and the city's division of streets and forestry for continuing
47:17 Your efforts to replenish our our city's
47:20 collective tree canopy
47:22 I know the the spring planting the the trees are already in this aging area
47:26 It's a great sign of spring when you when you see them dropped off and and I know you know
47:30 I know it's been a challenge, you know, even with the fall planting in that that early arrival of winter
47:34 But it is really appreciated and it is really important that we continue to to prioritize
47:40 Replacing our our aging tree canopy as trees age out as we deal with more volatile weather situations
47:47 And i'm grateful for this effort and particularly with the focus on
47:52 Equity zones and low existing tree canopy areas. So thank you very much
47:59 Thank you, madam president, um, yeah i'll uh
48:04 Definitely concur with councilman bixson stein. This is a
48:07 critically important work for our community. Um, so every dollar goes a long way, but
48:12 um, I just want to point out like thanks so much to director gordon and your team for
48:17 You know going out there and making sure we we try to find every opportunity and
48:21 This just happens to be what before us but um, I think this is something that's a culture of city hall
48:26 All of our departments and directors are constantly out there trying to find every resource they can
48:31 And that's not something you find everywhere. It's
48:35 I think it's way too easy to take for granted
48:38 The dollars we managed to turn up for really important things that are taking away from our burden at city hall
48:43 So thank you to all though behind behind every one of these grants is a lot of work and a lot of background
48:47 These aren't things aren't given but it seems like every meeting we have
48:51 We're receiving more funding from a different group that some city employee spent a lot of time making sure that we get so
48:58 Thank you to everybody and I really appreciate this work
49:02 Thank you any further discussion
49:06 Just echo those sentiments. We always like to see money coming in rather than always just going up
49:10 So appreciate that madam president. That's my book. Yeah tree education advisory board is meeting this week
49:17 I wonder if we could
49:20 Refer this matter also to them for their consideration or an update on it
49:25 Whether formally or informally that thought occurs
49:29 And and for director gordon, I've just got a quick question on I appreciate the points you're making that
49:34 funding would expand species diversity
49:37 accelerate and also
49:40 Procure higher quality materials. Can you tell us what higher quality materials means and
49:44 Where where are the equity zones are there is there a map we can look at on the website?
49:49 As I try to google that right now
49:52 Um, so you would have to go to the to the county planning department
49:58 In association with this grant to define exactly what each of the equity zones are
50:03 But the city's plan at this time as we have done on previous years
50:07 Is to plant at least a few trees in each equity zone, so we try to hit, you know
50:11 Each one in the city. Obviously some areas are a little bit more
50:16 Compacted than others. Um, so we try to we try to spread the wealth we like to say equally throughout all the equity zones
50:24 What this money does is it just it assists with the with the allocations that we already have in place
50:30 Tree reforestation every year
50:33 And what we try to do is just get the highest quality trees that we can
50:36 We've been using the same contractor for the past few years
50:39 So the the sooner we can get an order in place and the sooner we can define where
50:43 Where all these trees are going the higher quality material we're going to get
50:49 Councilman bixen stein said they're here
50:52 They're getting planted. Hopefully this week at some point
50:55 for the string excuse me for the spring tree planting program, so
50:59 We're rocking and rolling and so we can search up the
51:07 Plan which I don't yeah I I can send you what you need to have for that
51:11 Okay, i'm just you know, I i'm glad to hear of their thoughtful approach too and
51:16 That they're continuing to invest in
51:21 Thank you, um any further discussion
51:25 Hearing none on the motion to receive and file the communication all those in favor
51:30 Aye in that motion passes item 22 communication from planning director bington regarding acceptance of 2026
51:37 Cuyahoga county board of developmental disabilities grant award director bington
51:42 Thank you council president keppel and members of council
51:46 The cuyahoga county board of developmental disabilities access and physical space award is intended to support accessibility improvements
51:54 Funding is crucial for helping serve the community in providing safe welcoming and accessible spaces
52:00 That promote health connection and quality of life for people of all abilities
52:04 This year lakewood has been awarded ten thousand dollars to support accessibility improvements at winterhurst ice arena
52:11 Funding will be used to create accessible spectator seating areas ramps and wheelchair viewing spaces for rinks one and two
52:18 Funding will also be used to make the second floor lounge and spectator areas more accessible for individuals with mobility impairments
52:25 The city of lakewood is committed to removing physical barriers and ensuring that individuals with developmental disabilities
52:31 And mobility challenges can fully participate in programs events and community life with dignity and independence
52:40 Thank you. I'll move to receive and file that communication
52:45 Second motion's been made and seconded
52:48 discussion i'll just
52:50 Echo those same things of to the planning department and again for going out and seeking this funding and I know
52:58 As we've all the hard work on the winterhurst improvements
53:02 An assistant director boss has been doing a lot of that work and this continues the work on our ada
53:07 A transition plan which we have a lot to do
53:10 But I know that we're all very dedicated to doing it and like to see this work moving forward. So thank you
53:18 Hearing none on the motion to receive and file all those in favor. Aye and that motion passes
53:24 item 23 march 2026 finance department vendor reports submitted pursuant to lakewood codified ordinance 11103
53:32 Move to receive and file second motion's been made and seconded. Um, this is just
53:40 basically quarterly
53:43 Report from the finance department of purchases over a certain amount of money between certain amount just to have it on the record
53:49 So it's easy for folks to find and look through
53:54 Any discussion on this item
53:57 councilmember hamilton steiner, um, thank you president couple just um, just a little point of
54:04 Looking at like the fuel and gas diesel. I'm sure is that something that we're monitoring because I know we budgeted it for a certain amount
54:12 And is that something that we're going to be monitoring just all the that costs
54:20 And just watching that I don't know
54:23 Um, i'm i'm sure I guess the question may be how are we doing that and
54:29 And i'm looking at the administration going back and forth. Um, I don't know if director gordon you want to or mayor george
54:35 Uh, sure. I I can speak on this. So yes, we we continuously monitor that
54:41 And the pricing is set by by the market price. We're not certainly
54:46 Set to a to a certain price
54:49 But it is monitored
54:53 Um to ensure that that we are using the best methods possible to conserve on gas when needed
55:03 Councilmember bullock, so that was not
55:06 Um a planted question, but I have next week in cleveland
55:13 the the um, there's a national association fleet managers who happens to have a conference in downtown cleveland and i've got the
55:22 Invitation, I wonder if I can get that over to you director gordon and your team. Uh, there's a big vendor hall
55:27 They've got all kinds of efficiency equipment
55:29 the idea would be we change an operating cost into a better asset that reduces the
55:40 Inflation uh due to global conflict and all kinds of other pressures on
55:46 fossil fuel gas prices
55:49 So is that potential of interest if I get that over to you? There's there's a free
55:55 portions of that event to attend
55:58 You're more than welcome to send it over. I can't make any guarantees with our current workload. However, um, yeah
56:04 We could certainly take a look at it. Thanks. All right or mayor if you're interested
56:12 Thank you. It's a good it's a good point. I just um
56:15 I mean just recently switched to an electric vehicle and some good timing. Uh, I had to fill up at a
56:21 fill up on a um fast charging station and it was I think 14 dollars for an entire
56:27 Tank if you think of it that way, which is
56:30 quite a bit cheaper. Um
56:32 So, uh anyway, um for we have a motion and a second to receive and file the vendor report any further discussion
56:41 Hearing none all those in favor. I and that motion passes
56:46 We are at public comment
56:53 Oh, yeah, we do have one e-comment. That'll also be
56:56 entered into the record
56:58 And then we have a couple folks signed in to speak
57:01 And first up is robert organ welcome back
57:10 Howdy partner I can feel the collective eye roll as I
57:15 Welcome as i'm welcomed back
57:18 After a long stay of absence
57:21 I don't have class on monday nights, but i'm real busy with homework. So I did have to take a couple hours out of my
57:27 Away from homework to come in here
57:31 Talk about everybody's favorite topic
57:37 I saw over the weekend that the uh
57:40 The person that killed bill safos was only sentenced to seven days in jail
57:47 Licensed suspension and it feels really gross to me to be even thinking about advocating for a longer
57:56 But I think we could probably all agree
57:59 That five years is not long enough for somebody to not drive after they've killed somebody in their car
58:06 That said I know that you all city council doesn't have
58:11 You don't have much control over the sentencing and and those things but we do have control over is
58:18 Policies and our built infrastructure here in lakewood
58:25 The built environment is the only thing that can really meaningfully change driver behavior
58:34 Policies that you could put in place that would cost nothing or next to nothing
58:39 could be something as simple as the idaho stop or
58:44 Changing the signal timing so that pedestrians and cyclists can get ahead of traffic at stoplights
58:51 But we could also be making changes to our built environment through
58:56 Daylighting of intersections. I don't know how many times i've sent emails
59:01 Saying like hey this intersection is really dangerous because cars park too close to the intersection people can't see
59:08 Drivers have to pull, you know further out into the intersection, etc. And i'm told that it's it's an enforcement issue
59:16 But i've also been told by the person in charge of enforcing these things that it's not a big concern for them
59:25 I was laughed at via email if you can put it that way
59:31 Even even if it was a concern for them the police cannot possibly react quickly enough to
59:39 enforce an amazon truck parked in the bike lane or
59:42 An uber eats driver stopping to run in and grab food
59:47 But those things make real
59:51 at our intersections for pedestrians and bicyclists and
59:54 Every day that those things are allowed to continue and no meaningful action is taken
59:59 is another day that somebody like bill safos or me or anybody else in this community could be hit and killed by a
1:00:08 You know by somebody that thinks that they have the right away and they're not going to slow down for anything whatever
1:00:17 It's really sad to see that
1:00:23 You know going to be driving in five years probably less
1:00:27 I mean, there's nothing really to stop him from getting behind the wheel of a car in
1:00:31 Three weeks as long as he doesn't get caught. I don't know
1:00:36 But the way I see it like you have three ways of getting me to stop showing up
1:00:41 one is to get behind the wheel of a car and kill me which
1:00:45 Probably nothing would happen as we've seen
1:00:48 Hopefully don't choose that. I don't think anybody here wants to
1:00:51 Uh, the second would be to pay for me to keep going to school
1:00:54 So i'm too busy to show up to city council meetings. I would love to get a phd
1:00:58 Um, that'd be that'd be cool
1:01:00 Uh, the third would be to take some meaningful action
1:01:04 Start with daylighting intersections. It's easy. It costs next to nothing
1:01:09 And you know if if it doesn't work out if the public doesn't like it or if it doesn't create some real
1:01:18 Then you can take it out. It's quick and easy
1:01:22 But that would be just a super great start
1:01:25 Uh to making our community safer for all people on their streets instead of just people in cars. Thanks
1:01:37 Uh furman, is that right? Uh, i'm sorry. I apologize for mean. Thank you
1:01:44 Rusty here, uh, he basically said everything I was going to say I was just
1:01:51 For this sort of situation to be taken more seriously and safer streets and uh, it's seven days. It's
1:01:58 Too short for what for what happened? Um, and something we need to
1:02:04 Do something about this and policy change and making everything safer for for everyone on the road
1:02:12 All right, and then finally, uh michael
1:02:17 Actually, I know michael and he is not here. So
1:02:20 He already left. All right. So madam president. Yes council member ball. It's just a comment in response to the um
1:02:28 Residents who just just come first of all, thank you for being here to talk about an important issue
1:02:33 And I I know for a fact that there were leaders in city hall
1:02:37 um upset about the verdict and I i'm going to say that because I think
1:02:43 the professional decorum of
1:02:45 You know, I represent the city but i'm not
1:02:48 An executive officer of the city who has to sign legal documents or
1:02:52 or um law enforcement matter, you know orders
1:02:57 They're keeping their decorum and and
1:03:00 Not editorializing on on a judicial ruling, but I I know for a fact that there are our members of city
1:03:10 Share the the desire to have a more
1:03:16 A longer a longer sentence and a more serious consequence. That's number one number two. I take your points. Uh, mr. Oregon about
1:03:25 uh, I also think in fairness to
1:03:28 Any one city hall department there's a there's a
1:03:32 overlay of multiple things that have to happen there's enforcement there's
1:03:39 traffic signs and signals, but there's also planning and in what the
1:03:45 What the street design and the parking design is
1:03:48 And then there's what the rules and laws are
1:03:51 And the ordinances are that this body
1:03:59 leadership roles and responsibilities and sometimes the overlap works great and sometimes it may lead to
1:04:06 um a little bit of a slowness or timidity or
1:04:10 the classic problem of a ball
1:04:12 In a baseball game falls between two outfielders because we each think the others got it. So um
1:04:19 We we want you to keep coming. Uh, so thank you for your
1:04:26 Expectation to make the city better and the community better and to challenge us all to make the streets safer for all users. So
1:04:41 We do want you to keep coming but we don't want you to keep coming because there's another tragedy so
1:04:46 Well, i'll just say that this body has been
1:04:54 Complete streets legislation the case advisory board, but that doesn't mean that that's the end of the work
1:04:58 That's just the beginning of the work. So
1:05:01 And I think I think everyone up here shares the concern for sure
1:05:07 That is everyone I have signed in to speak did anyone else wish to speak this evening
1:05:12 Okay, um announcements from council members
1:05:18 One quick announcement. Um, I know we already spoke about trees, but the liquid tree giveaway program
1:05:25 Launches its third year this week
1:05:28 Online ordering goes live 10 a.m. This wednesday
1:05:32 Any lakewood residents eligible for a free tree for private yard planning?
1:05:37 Check out the city's socials for more information or visit arborday.org
1:05:45 Thank you other announcements from council members no announcements from the administration
1:05:52 All right seeing none with no further business before council without objection. We are adjourned