COUNCIL MEETING SEPTEMBER 9, 2025
Willoughby City Council Meeting Summary
• September 9, 2025 •
Ken Kary • Councilman Ward 2
NOTE
These notes “are not” the official minutes for Willoughby City Council.
The views I express in these Council Meeting Summaries are my own and do not reflect any official view or position of the City of Willoughby.
The “official” Council Minutes are posted on the City of Willoughby Website
https://willoughbyohio.com/city-council/
Committee Meetings:
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING:
Committee: Ken Kary, Dan Anderson, Dan Garry
EAS #15-7-25
A fencing business and equipment and materials storage at the existing building located at 38296 Western Parkway (A&B Fencing, LLC).
Mr. Dengel stated they are renting their current shop in Wickliffe. The company has purchased a building (in Willoughby). He stated they will be storing materials, trucks and equipment and also operate their business from the new location. There is no new construction and storage, etc. will be indoors. Mr. Kary stated there were no stormwater issues, no traffic concerns, no Police or Fire Department concerns and no noise, water, or air pollution concerns, no demands on the school system and no hazardous materials on site. Move in should take place in October, 2025.
There were no other comments or concerns. Mr. Kary stated the committee recommends passage of EAS #15-7-25.
The Environmental Planning Committee adjourned at 6:33 p.m.
AGENDA
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 9, 2025
Absent: Councilman Anderson
APPROVAL OF MINUTES-
Regular Council Meeting of August 12, 2025
STANDING AND REGULAR COMMITTEE REPORTS
No major reports
CORRESPONDENCE
No correspondence
PUBLIC PORTION
Mayor Fiala presented Willoughby resident Earl Linaberg with a proclamation for the 2025 Senior Center Volunteer of the Year.
NEW BUSINESS
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-102 Motion carried 6 to 0
A resolution approving EAS #15-7-25 for a fencing business and equipment and materials storage at the existing building located at 38296 Western Parkway (A&B Fencing, LLC).
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-103 Motion carried 6 to 0
A resolution authorizing the Mayor to apply for and enter into a contract with the Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC), Round 40, for funds necessary to the Lincoln Avenue Storm Sewer Replacement Project, and declaring an emergency.
City Engineer Lannon stated the storm sewers in this area are about 100 years old. He stated that the sewers on Lincoln were more or less completely collapsed in places, basically a non-functional storm sewer. He stated this street is the first of a neighborhood effort. Lyons, which is an adjacent street, is on the radar for next year. The project scored really well this year with OPWC so that lays the table for a continued effort in asking for more money from the state for future projects.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-104 Motion carried 6 to 0
A resolution authorizing the Mayor to apply for and enter into a contract with the Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC), Round 40, for funds necessary to the 2026 Concrete Slab Replacement Program, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated this work will include 10 streets for concrete slab work that will take place in 2026. There was discussion regarding putting down asphalt on streets instead of repairing the concrete. Mr. Lannon stated that most of the new subdivisions in the City are asphalt. Regarding Colonial Boulevard, Service Director Palmisano stated the City will mill it and do an asphalt overlay; the joint repairs that were done this summer were in anticipation of the overlay on top. In the future, streets will be looked at for possible overlays.
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-105 Motion carried 6 to 0
An ordinance accepting the improvements for Andrews Ridge Subdivision Phases 1 and 2.
Mr. Lannon stated the work has been 99% complete for months. Before the City approves the plan, the City gets a maintenance bond and a performance bond for any remaining work. There is some remaining curb repair work that needs to be completed. There is a separate bond for any missing sidewalks due to houses not yet built. The retention basin needs to be revamped from the construction phase to the permanent configuration.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-106 Motion carried 6 to 0
A resolution approving Change Order No. 1 in the Osborne Park Coastal Improvements Phase 1 with Mark Haynes Construction, Inc., and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated Ms. Keller sent out an e-mail late today with regards to this change order. Regarding the permit for Osborne Park, Ms. Keller stated the permit is still with ODNR; they have started the submerged land lease and have notified the direct neighbors on the west and east; they have 45 days to object to the project or comment. She hopes the City will have the permit after 45 days. Mr. Carr asked if the $200,000 extra will be coming out of an Osborne Park fund. Mayor Fiala stated the City has about $6.75 million in total funding for Osborne Park so there is plenty of money. Mayor Fiala stated part of the delay getting the permit is because the City added the Phase II permit in the middle of the permitting. He stated the City will have the permit for both phases and will have funding for both as well. The work for Phase II will be a change order with Mark Haynes Construction.
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-107 Motion carried 6 to 0
An ordinance levying assessments for the improvement of all streets within the City of Willoughby, Ohio,by supplying said streets with electric street lighting, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated according to the memo received from Ms. Hoffman, this is the annual street lighting assessment.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-108 Motion carried 6 to 0
A resolution accepting the amounts and rates as determined by the Budget Commission, authorizing the necessary tax levies, certifying same to the Lake County Auditor, anddeclaring an emergency.
Ms. Hoffman stated that the tax budget was submitted in July and this resolution confirms the rates back to the county.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-109 Motion carried 6 to 0
A resolution authorizing the Director of Finance to transfer funds from the Safety Tax Levy Fundto the General Bond Retirement Fund, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated that the money in the Safety Tax Levy Fund needs to be transferred to repay the debt (bond). The transferring of money will need to be done annually. Ms. Hoffman stated that the debt will be paid off in 28 years.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-110 Motion carried 6 to 0
A resolution amending Resolution No. 2025-30 to provide for current expenses and other expenditures of the City of Willoughby, Ohio, during the period ending December 31, 2025, and declaring an emergency.
Ms. Hoffman stated the net effect is zero; the court is moving money around in order to pay for postage.
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-111 Motion carried 6 to 0
An ordinance certifying to the Auditor of Lake County certain unpaid bills owing to the City of Willoughby, Ohio, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated this ordinance is passed annually and covers the cutting of grass when it gets too high. Service Director Palmisano stated if the unpaid bills are not paid then the Finance Department turns them over to the county where the amount owed will be assessed on property taxes. Mr. Carr stated the McKinley Center is on the list; there had been discussion regarding the fact that McKinley is a non-profit and doesn’t pay_ _t_a_x_e_s_._ _Mr. Palmisano stated that a portion of McKinley_’s_ _b_i_l_l_ _w_a_s_ _p_a_i_d_ _b_u_t_ _t_h_e_ _r_e_st would go to the county. Mr. Tomaselli asked if the City provides proof of service. Mr. Palmisano stated that the homeowner is cited and they are given 7 days to cut the grass. If the City cuts the grass after those 7 days, the Service Department will send a bill out to the homeowner. If it’s not paid, it will go to the Finance Department to be sent to the county._ _
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-112 Motion carried 6 to 0
A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a contract with NRG Business Marketing LLC to furnish natural gas and related services for the City of Willoughby's public buildings for a periodof four (4) years, effective December 1, 2025 and declaring an emergency.
WPCC Superintendent Gorka stated he requested quotes from nine gas providers. There were four bids and the best one came from the current supplier who has their own wells. The increase based on last years consumption will be $3,266 across all 18 accounts annually: a 6% increase from four years ago.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-113 Motion carried 6 to 0
A resolution declaring it necessary to construct certain sidewalks in the City of Willoughby, Ohio, within the locations designed herein, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated this includes three homes on two streets. Mr. Lannon stated the homeowners have been asked many times over the years by John Crislip to install sidewalks. Mr. Lannon stated the City has three weeks to get the notice out to the homeowners and they have 90 days to complete or be assessed. Mr. Carr asked about the commercial properties on Route 91 (_W_e_n_d_y_’s_ _a_n_d_ _W_a_l_g_r_e_e_n_s_)_. Mr. Lannon stated those needs plans and stamped the engineer's estimate to send them the notice. Mr. Lannon stated they were sent an informal notice; they were provided the phone number to the sidewalk contractor who was under contract with the City. He stated that Fifth Third Bank did install a sidewalk. Mr. Carr stated he was under the impression that the process had started already for those properties.
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-114 Motion carried 6 to 0
An ordinance declaring the improvement to certain parcels in the City to be a public purposeand exempt from taxation pursuant to ORC 5709.40(8); providing for the collection and depositof service payments and specifying the purposes for which those service payments may be expended; authorizing school compensation payments, and declaring an emergency.
Law Director Lucas stated this ordinance is a follow up to the resolution that was passed at the July 8th meeting that outlined the process for development for Riverside Commons Phase 1 which consists of two lots all within one permanent parcel which is about 14.7 acres. He stated the property was established under a CRA back in 1984 so it already received a tax exception. Periodically property was added to it; this property is part of the CRA. Mayor Fiala and Tom Thielman have done a lot of work to provide some supplement back to the City from the 100% exception (that was there since 1984) to a 50% exception. He stated that one of the public improvements that this money will help offset is the debt service for the road that’s_ _b_e_e_n_ _there_ _f_o_r_ _y_e_a_r_s_ _o_n_ _t_h_e_ _C_i_t_y_’s_ _d_i_m_e_._ _Mr. Lucas stated it will be funded through the TIF legislation. Mayor Fiala stated the CRA is still in place, the City is getting a rebate of 50% of the value to offset the cost of the road improvements. Mayor Fiala stated the owner has been waiting for this legislation to establish the value of the sale of the properties. Some of these costs will be assigned to the new property owners. Mr. Lucas stated there will be more legislation regarding Riverside Commons at the next Council meeting.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-115 Motion carried 6 to 0
A resolution amending the meeting schedule of the Council of the City of Willoughby, Ohio, for the month of November, 2025.
Mr. Carr stated this resolution eliminates the meeting on Election Day.
The Legislative Caucus adjourned at 7:04 p.m.
NOTE:
For accuracy, this section has been copied from the council meeting minutes
MAYORS REPORT
Mayor Fiala thanked Council for the passage of OPWC legislation (Resolution Nos. 2025-103 and 104. He stated the Relay for Life is taking place this Saturday. The unveiling of the mural at Osborne Park will take place at 2 p.m. this Saturday. The DTW 5K takes place on Sunday.
DIRECTOR’S REPORTS
Law Director Lucas – _Regarding short term rentals, Mr. Lucas stated an ordinance has been drafted and is currently with the Planning Commission. It will be on the next agenda for the Planning Commission. The legislation is urgent due to the pending state legislation; however, the Ohio General Assembly i_s_n_’t_ _m_o_v_i_n_g_ _q_u_i_c_k_l_y_ _w_i_t_h_ _t_h_e_ _l_e_g_i_s_l_a_t_i_o_n_.
_ _
Service Director Palmisano – _Mr. Palmisano thanked Council for the passage of Resolution 2025-112.
City Engineer Lannon – _Mr. Lannon reported the City is in the bidding process for the Route 84 retaining wall. The bids have been delayed a few times because the City was waiting on feedback from First Energy regarding the relocation of power poles. Regarding the Nason Basin to Vine Street storm sewer project, Mr. Lannon stated that the contractor successfully bored under Rt. 2. There will be a lot of activity and trucks in that area over the next couple months. Mr. Tomaselli asked if the Nason Basin will change once the project is complete i.e., will the water level in the basin change. Mr. Lannon stated the water_ _l_e_v_e_l_ _s_h_o_u_l_d_n_’t_ _c_h_a_n_g_e_ _because the previous projects were done to balance out stormwater. The Meadowlands Basin project was as much of a storage project as a storm sewer project that connected Meadowlands south of the railroad to Lakeland and then under Rt. 2. The two basins now act together instead of parallel. The outlet to Nason Basin was adjusted years ago as one of the first master plan projects.
Fire Chief Ungar – _No report. Regarding the ambulance being remounted, Chief Ungar stated that the interior is currently being worked on with a target completion date sometime in December. Mr. Tomaselli asked if any of the equipment will be replaced. Chief Ungar stated that if the equipment is bad it will be replaced; the contingency fund covered all items that would need to be replaced. So far, nothing major has had to be replaced but there is a lot of cosmetic work being done.
Police Chief Schultz – _Chief Schultz reported there was a swatting call (fake 911 call) last Thursday at Willow Park Apartments. In this case there were alleged threats made. He stated there were a lot of law enforcement and fire personnel that were tied up for over 4 hours. The suspect was identified (and arrested) which is extremely rare in these types of cases.
Chief Schultz stated that in August there was an accidental drug overdose in the City. He stated that his department was able to collect evidence and work the case backwards and identify a suspect. In less than 24 hours the suspect was arrested with the cooperation of the Lake County Narcotics Agency.
Regarding the new Police Station, Chief Schultz stated that a lot of work has been done on the ground floor and the first floor. Drywall should go up in the next few weeks.
Chief Building and Zoning Inspector Keller – _No report.
Parks & Recreation Director Keller – _Ms. Keller thanked Council for the passage of Resolution No. 2025-106. The Osborne Park pool is closed for the season. The Trick or Treat Trail is scheduled for October 25th at Osborne park at 12 p.m. Ms. Keller thanked Earl Linaberg for his dedication and volunteer time at the Senior Center. Mr. Carr asked what the next step was for the Euclid Avenue pool area. Ms. Keller stated the plan is still being worked on; it will b_e_ _b_r_o_u_g_h_t_ _t_o_ _C_o_u_n_c_i_l_ _w_h_e_n_ _i_t_’s_ _d_o_n_e_._ _M_s_._ _K_e_l_l_e_r_ _s_t_a_t_e_d_ _s_h_e_ _w_o_u_l_d_ _f_i_n_d_ _o_u_t_ _t_h_e_ _s_t_a_t_u_s_ _o_f_ _t_h_e_ _plan. Mr. Tomaselli asked if there was anything of value at the Euclid Avenue Pool. Ms. Banker stated the drop slide will be reused. The funbrellas will be reused for the pickleball courts at Osborne Park for shade.
Finance Director Hoffman – _Ms. Hoffman thanked Council for the passage of the Finance Department legislation. Mr. Tomaselli congratulated Ms. Hoffman and the department for the annual financial report, which is the highest achievement in the state of Ohio.
COUNCIL REPORTS
No major reports
ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Council Meeting adjourned at 7:46 p.m.
COMMENTS BY COUNCILMAN KARY
First and foremost, I apologize for some of the formatting errors!!!
No control over the text being copied and pasted.
Second, I want to share that once again, my name will be on the ballot this fall for another two-year term on City Council. I have a few more items that I want to address before my departure, as well as complete the major city projects listed below. Everyone knows I am totally committed to Ward 2 as well as the city as a whole.
To close, here is a re-post of some of the projects taking place in the city currently!!!I
I BELIEVE THEY ARE ALL WORTH SHARING
WILLOUGHBY POLICE STATION: Project Overview
The City of Willoughby will establish a new police station at 37733 Euclid Avenue, the former Meister Media Worldwide building. This project emphasizes the city’s commitment to modernizing public safety infrastructure and ensuring that the police department is equipped to serve the community effectively.
The current police station, located at 36700 Euclid Avenue, was built in 1975 and has been deemed functionally obsolete. A comprehensive Facility Program and Needs Assessment study conducted in 2021 by the Police Facility Design Group revealed significant deficiencies, including outdated infrastructure, inadequate space for current operations, and an inability to meet modern law enforcement standards.
In May 2023, Willoughby residents approved a Safety Levy that will generate the necessary funding to support the new police station. The levy also provides for the purchase of a new ladder truck for the Willoughby Fire Department, replacing a 20-year-old vehicle, and creates a sustainable revenue source for future capital needs, such as vehicles and equipment for first responders.
This forward-thinking approach addresses current challenges but also ensures that Willoughby’s first responders have the resources they need to protect and serve the community for years to come.
OUR TEAM OF FIRST RESPONDERS IS BY FAR…….”THE BEST”
Project Timeline
January 2022 (Completed) | Facility Program and Needs Assessment study conducted by Police Facility Design Group
June 2022 | Willoughby hires Bowen and Associates conducted an architectural assessment and fit plan (https://willoughbyohio.com/city-to-study-feasibility-of-new-police-facility/)
December 2022 – City of Willoughby purchases the former Meister Media Building for potential use for the future police station
May 2023 | Safety Levy passed
December 2024 | Police Station Bids collected
January 2025 | Infinity Construction selected
April 2025 | Interior demolition started
May – June 2025 | Continued interior demolition, structural upgrades
July 2025 | Site drainage, jail and range excavation, landscape removal
OSBORNE PARK SHORELINE: Project Overview
The Osborne Park Reimagination and Shoreline Protection Project is a master plan designed to restore and enhance the park’s Lake Erie shoreline. For years, high water levels have caused significant erosion along the 1,400 linear feet of shoreline, leading to the loss of parkland, threats to underground infrastructure, and reduced recreational opportunities. This project takes a proactive approach to protect and reimagine the shoreline for future generations.
Phase One:
The first phase will focus on addressing immediate concerns, including stabilizing eroded slopes and implementing effective erosion control measures. Pathways to the waterfront will be created to ensure safe public access while protecting vital storm sewer and water lines.
Phase Two:
The second phase will further enhance the park by adding recreational features, such as walking paths, scenic overlooks, and thoughtfully designed site amenities like sitting areas and swinging benches that invite residents and visitors to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the lakefront.
Supported by the significant $2 million state grant secured through the efforts of Ohio State Senator Jerry Cirino and State Representative Dan Troy, this marks the beginning of this transformational project aimed at preserving Willoughby’s shoreline.
Project Timeline
June 2021 – Awarded $200,000 Emergency Erosion Assistance Grant from ODNR
2021-2025 – Sale of real estate on N. Beachwood with proceeds of $895,700 going toward the project.
October 2023 – Awarded $75,000 Coastal Management Assistance Grant from ODNR
December 2023 – Permit application submitted to the Army Corp of Engineers – still awaiting as of Jan 2025
June 2024 – A $2 million state grant secured through efforts of Senator Jerry Cirino
December 17, 2024 | Bid awarded to Mark Haynes Construction Inc. for Phase 1
March 6, 2025 | Mobilization of equipment and boulder delivery for the initial revetment work
THE CHAGRIN RIVER FLOODPLAIN RESTORATION AND TRAIL PROJECT PROJECT Overview
The Chagrin River Floodplain Restoration and Trail Project is a vital initiative aimed at protecting precious land along the Chagrin River and enhancing public access to the area.
This project has been made possible through federal, state, and local funding. The City of Willoughby received $1.7 million in grant funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate-Ready Coasts Initiative, which was used to purchase 105 acres of critical riparian habitat along the Chagrin River. This acquisition served as the foundation for the project’s development and momentum.
Additionally, Congressman Dave Joyce has been instrumental in securing a significant $2.3 million grant from the House Appropriations Committee, further advancing the project. The Lake County Commissioners, recognizing the long-term environmental, recreational, and economic benefits, also committed $675,000 from ARPA funds to support this transformative initiative.
The City of Willoughby is partnering with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the Western Reserve Land Conservancy, and the Chagrin River Watershed Partners to bring this conservation project to life. The initiative will enhance climate resiliency, improve public access, and contribute to the growing conservation and recreation corridor along the river—from Downtown Willoughby to Lake Erie.
In addition to water quality improvements, the project will include the creation of wetlands and vernal pools, decommissioning an idled nursery, the removal of invasive plant species, riverbank erosion controls, and developing a passive park featuring walking trails. In partnership with Lakeland Community College and Andrews Osborne Academy, an environmental studies curriculum will also be created for students from kindergarten through college.
Project Timeline
July 2022 – Federal Appropriation of $2.3 million secured through the efforts of Congressman Dave Joyce
November 2022 – ARPA – Lake County | $675,000 awarded from Lake County Commissioners ARPA funds for the project
August 2023 – NOAA – Federal | $1.7 million grant award from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate-Ready Coasts Initiative. These funds were used to acquire 105 acres of riparian habitat long the Chagrin River (formally owned by Andrews Osborne Academy).
November 2024 – Project Design-Build Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) | Review using links below
Spring 2025 – Decommissioning nursery stock, invasive species treatment
June 2025 – Archeological Study, Borings, Artifact Collections, Literature Review
July 2025 – Topographical Survey Work
September 2025 – Estimated 30% Design Complete
Spring 2026 – Estimated Construction Start
These three (3) projects show that we as a city are addressing current issues as well as providing a plan for amenities we can all enjoy in the future. All of this takes vision and commitment. You cannot fix what is not working without addressing elements that will bring pleasure to our residents and their visitors. These two acts create a sense of balance that is critical to our growth and well-being.
NOTE
The views I express in these Council Meeting Summaries are my own and do not reflect any official view or position of the City of Willoughby. The “official” Council Minutes are posted on the
City of Willoughby Website