COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 7, 2026
Willoughby City Council Meeting Summary
• April 7, 2026 •
Ken Kary • Councilman Ward 2
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:
NO COMMITTEE MEETINGS
AGENDA
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 7, 2026
PUBLIC HEARING
Clerk Novak read the legal notice for the public hearing on the proposed Codified Ordinance text amendments
Those speaking in Favor - No one spoke. Those speaking in Opposition - No one spoke.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES-
Regular Council Meeting of March 17, 2026
STANDING AND REGULAR COMMITTEE REPORTS
Service Committee, Mr. Anderson - Mr. Anderson reported there will be a Service Committee meeting this Saturday at 9 a.m. to view stormwater sites in the City. Mr. Carr suggested a committee meeting to give an update.
CORRESPONDENCE
No correspondence
PUBLIC PORTION
Jeffrey Malecki, 1249 South Beachview Road, Willoughby, Ohio -
Mr. Malecki thanked all those who attended the meeting in regard to the Two Town Creek issues. He is asking for an emergency moratorium be placed on any further construction due to the maximum volume at which Two Town Creek is running. He stated that the City's current use exceeds reasonable riparian use, resulting in ongoing property damage to himself and neighboring residents. He cited unacceptable runoff levels observed after one inch of rainfall on March 11th and criticized recent stormwater improvements, noting that the new culvert is misaligned, elevated, and improperly angled compared to the existing structure. He warned that failure to address these issues could lead to significant legal consequences. He stated that with the watershed already at 87.5% capacity, he urged the City to halt development temporarily, prioritize infrastructure investment, repair damages, and protect the environment for future generations.
Richard Zerga, 36930, Stevens Boulevard, Willoughby -
Mr. Zerga stated that he regularly walks his dog on Stevens Boulevard and has noticed increased speeding since Ben Hur closed. Due to traffic and lack of sidewalks, he changed his walking route to the area near AmeriGas, where he was shocked by the amount of garbage. He reported seeing discarded furniture, a mattress, tires, and other debris in the parking lot and nearby wooded area by the DeMilta property. Mr. Zerga expressed concern about the area deteriorating and urged that the responsible property owners be contacted to clean it up.
Rochelle Davis, 38397 South Beachview Road, Willoughby -
Ms. Davis stated she was here tonight to speak about concerns regarding the proposed McKinley project. She stated she is not opposed to affordable housing, but a call for responsible planning and community balance. Variations of this proposal have come forward multiple times, and residents have repeatedly shared the same concerns. When that feedback is not meaningfully addressed, she stated it feels less like engagement and more like persistence until opposition fades. She stated that residents understand the need for growth, but deserve a voice and choice in development that affects our neighborhoods, infrastructure, property, and schools. She stated that the north end already has a higher concentration of Section 8 and low income housing than other areas of the City. Continued clustering places strain on services, increases housing density, and impacts property stability and turnover. She stated this area feeds into Grant Elementary, where increased density could raise class sizes and resource demands, placing disproportionate pressure on one part of the district. Growth should be balanced and shared citywide, not concentrated in one neighborhood.
Bill Collins, 3409 South Beachview Road, Willoughby, Ohio -
Mr. Collins stated he supports concerns about growth in the north end. While projects like Osborne look good, the impact on the neighborhood isn't being fully considered. According to the City's website, the property is zoned R-50, which allows single-family homes only, not two-family duplexes. R-50 zoning exists to protect the character of the older north end neighborhood. He stated that the original transfer of the McKinley property was conditioned on it remaining a community resource for food and clothing assistance. Building six duplexes violates that agreement. Additionally, this project will increase stormwater runoff into Two Town Creek from Lost Nation Road, worsening drainage issues.
Paul Zavalovich, 1160 Elmwood Drive, Willoughby, Ohio -
Mr. Zavalovich stated he would like to suggest to his neighbors to begin gathering signatures to place an eminent domain measure on the ballot. He warned that without a permanent solution; residents will be forced to return year after year while their voices are ultimately ignored. Because that is not sustainable, he believes this approach should end the issue.
NEW BUSINESS
ORDINANCE NO. 2026-30 Motion carried 7 to 0
An ordinance amending Chapter 1161 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Willoughby, Ohio, titled, "Off-Street Parking Regulations", specifically, Section 1161.04, titled, "Required Off-Street Parking Spaces".
Law Director Lucas stated that the proposed amendment was simply adding townhomes as an additional use within the existing parking regulations for that particular section. Previously, townhomes were not specifically identified, which led to questions about the interpretation. Mr. Carr stated there is a public hearing tonight on the proposed amendments.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-31 Motion carried 7 to 0
A resolution authorizing the Director of Finance to transfer funds from the General Fund to various other funds, and declaring an emergency.
Regarding the transfers, Ms. Hoffman stated that there was nothing included that is not typically done every year; the amounts are slightly lower than last year for Fire, Police, Recreation, and Streets. These fund will end the year at approximately $75,000 based on the budget.
Mr. Carr asked about the Fire and Police Pension Funds, noting that many of those figures are often based on expected retirements and asked whether those were running consistently. Ms. Hoffman clarified that those funds are not related to retirements; those funds pay out future retirement benefits and that none of the payouts are pensionable. Mr. Carr asked what drives the pension fund amounts, specifically questioning why the Fire Pension Fund is significantly higher than the Police Pension Fund. Ms. Hoffman stated that the difference is due to the Fire De_p_a_r_t_m_e_n_t_’s_ contribution percentage being much higher than that of the Police Department.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-32 Motion carried 7 to 0
A resolution amending Resolution No. 2026-25 to provide for current expenses and other expenditures of the City of Willoughby, Ohio, during the period ending December 31, 2026, and declaring an emergency.
Ms. Hoffman stated that when property tax revenues were received, she was not aware that TIF revenue (Andrews Ridge) would also be included, but approximately $10,000 was received. Mr. Carr asked whether there was any visibility into the anticipated annual amount of TIF revenue going forward. He asked Mr. Tomaselli if there had been any discussion about priorities for the funds. Mr. Tomaselli stated that the sewer line to Kirtland Road along State Route 84, along with one other minor project. After those projects are paid for, his recommendation was to shut down the TIF. Mr. Tomaselli stated that the area is almost fully built out. Ms. Hoffman stated that not all parcels had paid into the TIF yet because some houses were not completed for the year. Mr. Tomaselli stated that by this time next year, the revenue might increase to around $20,000 instead of $10,000. Ms. Hoffman stated that it should be significantly more than that, explaining that only four or five parcels were included so far, and that the figure represented only the first half collections.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-33 Motion carried 7 to 0
A resolution by the City of Willoughby, County of Lake, State of Ohio, declaring it necessary to renew a nine-tenths (0.9) of one mill tax levy and requesting the Lake County Auditor to certify the total current tax valuation of the City and the dollar amount of revenue that would be generated by the renewal, and declaring an emergency.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-34 Motion carried 7 to 0
A resolution by the City of Willoughby, County of Lake, State of Ohio, declaring it necessary to renew a two- (2-) mill taxlevy and requesting the Lake County Auditor to certify the total current tax valuation of the City and the dollar amount of revenue that would be generated by the renewal, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr explained that this resolution represents the second renewal levy, commonly referred to as the Road and Bridge Levy. Mr. Carr stated he always thought of the levy as generating roughly $1,000,000, but acknowledged that it is closer to $1.2 million. Mr. Carr asked Mayor Fiala whether there had been any discussion about increasing the levy amount, recognizing that pursuing a replacement levy rather than a renewal might be risky in the current climate. Mayor Fiala stated that discussions would likely be necessary regarding several renewal levies (Road and Bridge and Parks & Rec), as they are generating significantly less revenue than in previous years. Ms. Hoffman stated that $82,000 is being collected this year for the 2025 tax year payable in 2026 for the Park & Rec levy.
Mayor Fiala suggested that a committee meeting could be useful to discuss both levies, noting concerns about voter fatigue and the difference in voter perception between renewal and replacement levies. There was discussion regarding the timeframe of the two resolutions that need to be passed for levies to be on the ballot. Mr. Carr asked whether there had been consideration of pursuing a replacement levy instead of a renewal, acknowledging that the timeline might not make that feasible. There was discussion regarding a replacement levy or an additional levy. Mr. Carr stated there is more time before the Parks and Recreation levy is due and referenced the ongoing Euclid Avenue pool discussion as a factor that may influence future funding strategies. Mayor Fiala stated that the full pool study would not be available until sometime in the summer and suggested forming a working committee with Parks and Recreation and Service to discuss both levies and their timing.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-35 Motion carried 7 to 0
A resolution approving Change Order No. 3 in the Willoughby Police Station Project with Infinity Construction Co., Inc., and declaring an emergency.
Mayor Fiala stated that the memo sent earlier today was meant to provide Council with detailed transparency behind the first page of a change order, including all supporting documentation. He stated that the change order from Bowen was heavily vetted, including a narrative prepared by Bowen themselves, to confirm the legitimacy of the costs. The final two pages were highlighted as especially important because they provide a snapshot of current project expenses. He stated that change orders continue to be funded through the contingency allowance, which has increased from just over 2% to 3.64%. Any remaining contingency funds will return to the Safety Levy fund, so careful monitoring is essential as the project nears completion. While some outstanding negotiated items remain, Mayor Fiala is hopeful that the project will stay within contingency and hoped that at least half of the allowance could be returned to the Safety Levy Fund.
Mr. Carr asked how much additional cost might still be expected. Mayor Fiala stated that several significant cost items are being closely watched, including an existing moisture penetration issue at one corner of the building that will require excavation and w_a_t_e_r_p_r_o_o_f_i_n_g_._ _D_u_e_ _t_o_ _t_h_e_ _b_u_i_l_d_i_n_g_’s_ _c_o_n_s_t_r_u_c_t_i_o_n_,_ _t_h_e_ _f_i_x_ _i_s_ _m_o_r_e_ _c_o_m_p_l_e_x_ _t_h_a_n_ _it might seem. He stated that the jail portion of the project is running about a month behind the rest of the building and that the jail inspector has authority to mandate changes, which could introduce additional costs. However, positive working relationships with the inspector, the Police Chief, and Matt Tartaglia along with proactive communication are expected to minimize surprises.
Mr. Carr stated that while the contingency looks solid, the bottom‑line figures show the project tracking almost exactly to the proposed budget recalling earlier dispatch related overages and asked whether those contributed to the close alignment. Mayor Fiala stated that those costs were moved below the line because they were incurred before construction bidding and were unrelated to building work. These early expenses included handheld radios and Vesta systems purchased ahead of anticipated price increases. He explained that purchases were strategically spread over two years, with some transactions timed for December 31st to shift expenses into the following fiscal year. Mr. Carr asked Mayor Fiala if he was comfortable with how the project is progressing. Mayor Fiala stated the contractor is doing a great job and has confidence in both the quality of construction and oversight. Multiple individuals including PJ Turosky from Buildings and Grounds, Police Chief Schultz, Assistant Police Chief Matt Tartaglia and himself are closely monitoring the work. He stated that renovation projects are particularly risky due to the potential for change orders exceeding ten percent, but stated that the project is being managed well. Having an architect directly involved has also helped keep the contractor accountable and reduce unnecessary disputes.
Mr. Tomaselli asked whether jail inspectors have visited the site yet. Mayor Fiala confirmed that inspectors have been involved quite extensively and noted that they had recently visited the site during rainy conditions. Chief Schultz stated that the state inspector was brought in during the design phase with Bowen Architects to ensure compliance and avoid surprises later in construction. The inspector has been satisfied with the work, has visited several times, and is expected to return again when roof installation begins.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-36 Motion carried 7 to 0
A resolution declaring the official intent and reasonable expectation of the City of Willoughby, on behalf of the State of Ohio, to reimburse its Road and Bridge Levy Fund for the DGAC09 SR 84 Slope Stabilization Project, with the proceeds from Ohio Public Works Commission of the State of Ohio, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated that this resolution is for a $600,000 grant. Ms. Hoffman stated before reimbursement could be requested, legislation required by OPWC needed to be approved.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-37 Motion carried 7 to 0
A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a shared use and management agreement, as amended, between Willoughby-Eastlake City School District ("District"), Lake County Young Men's Christian Association ("YMCA") and the City of Willoughby, Ohio ("City") and originally for the construction of a Senior Center, YMCA Facility, and a Field House containing four gymnasiums, one of which is for the exclusive use of the City, and the shared use and management of other facilities, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated that Ms. Keller had sent out a memo addressing modifications to the existing agreement, and there was a request for her to expand on what details might be changing. Ms. Keller stated that there were four changes affecting the City. First, the o_r_g_a_n_i_z_a_t_i_o_n_’s_ _n_a_m_e_ _i_s_ _b_e_i_n_g_ _c_h_a_n_g_e_d_ _f_r_o_m_ _t_h_e_ _F_i_e_l_d_h_o_u_s_e_ _O_p_e_r_a_t_i_n_g_ _C_o_m_m_i_t_t_e_e_ _t_o_ _t_h_e_ _Union Village Operating Committee to better reflect that decisions apply to the entire grounds, not just the fieldhouse. She noted that all organizations contribute annually to an enterprise fund. The City had been paying $5,000 per year, which was increased by $500 for the years 2026 through 2031, and then raised to $6,000 thereafter. To date, expenditures from the fund have been minimal, with one example being the replacement of wall panels for the basketball hoops, which cost under $50,000. She explained that because the City operates a third shift during the winter, the City agreed to paint the fieldhouse during that time when it is unused. Previously, the YMCA had to hire painters. The cost of the paint is divided among all three organizations, while the City supplies the labor, and this occurs once every four years. Finally, she clarified that court usage was i_n_i_t_i_a_l_l_y_ _d_e_f_i_n_e_d_ _o_n_l_y_ _a_s_ _“d_u_r_i_n_g_ _s_c_h_o_o_l_ _d_a_y_s_” _w_i_t_h_o_u_t_ _i_n_c_l_u_d_i_n_g_ _w_e_e_k_e_n_d_s_,_ _b_u_t_ _i_t_ _i_s_ _n_o_w_ _clearly split over all 365 days of the year. Mr. Tomaselli asked for clarification on the enterprise fund contributions, specifically whether the $5,000 amount now increasing was equal among all three parties. Ms. Keller confirmed that each party, including the YMCA and the Ci_t_y_,_ _c_o_n_t_r_i_b_u_t_e_s_ _t_h_e_ _s_a_m_e_ _a_m_o_u_n_t_,_ _a_n_d_ _t_h_a_t_ _e_v_e_r_y_o_n_e_’s_ _c_o_n_tribution is increasing.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-38 Motion carried 7 to 0
A resolution amending the meeting schedule of Council for the months of June, July, and August, 2026.
Mr. Carr stated this resolution reflects the summer schedule for Council.
NOTE:
For accuracy, this section has been copied from the council meeting minutes
MAYORS REPORT
Mayor Fiala stated that he, along with the other three mayors in the district, have been meeting regularly with the Willoughby-Eastlake School District. The district has asked the Mayors to assist them in working through ongoing financial issues. At this time, there is nothing specific to report, but the next meeting is scheduled for April 23rd. As the district continues to develop strategies to address an anticipated deficit over the next two to three years, Mayor Fiala stated he will report back to Council with any developments. Mr. Carr stated that Council had been invited to that meeting.
DIRECTOR’S REPORTS
Law Director Lucas - No report. Regarding a concern raised by a resident about whether the R50 zoning designation is suitable for two-family duplexes, Ms. Sievers asked if that concern was accurate or if it was something that Council needed to consider. Mr. Lucas stated that he will send a memo to Council the following day to address that specific issue.
Regarding the moratorium that was mentioned earlier this evening, Ms. Sievers asked for details on how it would work and what impact it would have. Mr. Lucas explained that, depending on how the moratorium is written, it would apply only to development applications submitted after the moratorium is passed. Any applications already submitted would not be affected because those applicants have established vested property rights, and a moratorium cannot be applied retroactively. He stated that any such moratorium would be forward-looking and emphasized that adopting one would ultimately be a Council decision.
Service Director Knecht - Mr. Knecht thanked the Council members and residents for reporting issues during the recent severe weather. He emphasized appreciation for residents acting as extra "eyes" in the community, noting that staff cannot see everything firsthand. He stated that the department is making a strong push to prepare for spring, including addressing potholes, picking up litter, and planning spring plantings.
Mr. Carr asked about pending sidewalk assessments, specifically referencing properties on Highgate, Hartshire, and the Walgreens property. He asked where the City was in the timeline for completing those assessments. Mr. Lannon stated that the plan had been to use the rebid of the voluntary sidewalk program numbers to those sections and that the City was preparing to rebid that along with other assessments. Mr. Carr clarified that his concern was about whether the property owners had responded within the allowed timeframe to pull permits and complete the work themselves, or whether the City was now waiting to proceed after bidding.
Mr. Knecht stated that the City did not yet have a firm cost estimate because the work had not gone out to bid. He stated that the bid would establish pricing, which would then allow residents to decide whether they wanted to complete the work themselves. Mr. Carr asked about the Walgreens property. Mr. Lannon stated Walgreens agreed to proceed with the work through the City as an assessment. He added that plans were already prepared and that the City intended to move forward by bidding the project. Mr. Lucas stated that Walgreens had been presented the opportunity to perform the work themselves in accordance with City ordinances. He noted that there had been some discussion about the wording of the initial letter, which was later modified, and that Walgreens was given time to hire its own contractor. Ultimately, Walgreens chose to participate in the City program, which requires establishing a bid price before proceeding.
Police Chief Schultz- Regarding the issues on Stevens Boulevard mentioned earlier by a resident, Chief Schultz stated he would direct his officers to do some traffic enforcement there. Ms. Sievers asked when the City can start using the speed trailer; she had some complaints from residents on North Cherokee. He asked Mr. Knecht when the trailer would be ready. Mr. Knecht stated they were finishing up some maintenance on it, but it will be ready soon. Chief Schultz stated that motorcycle and bicycle officers will be out more once the weather turns warmer.
Finance Director Hoffman - Ms. Hoffman thanked Council for Resolutions No. 2026-31 through 2025-36.
COUNCIL REPORTS
Ms. Sievers - Ms. Sievers thanked everyone for attending today and showing the strength of the north end community. She appreciates Mr. Malecki for coordinating the Two Town Creek meeting. Residents along the creek may contact her or the City to give permission for a one time cleanup so crews can access the property. Finally, many concerns were raised about the upcoming McKinley project, and she asked that Council and directors ensure these voices are heard.
Mr. Kary - Mr. Kary thanked the Malecki family for their presentation last Thursday. Attendance was strong and residents were very engaged. The City now has a solid starting point and plan to meet with residents to address creek obstructions and discuss future planning.
Mr. Carr - Mr. Carr stated he was looking forward to the opening of Jeff's Candy Shop on April 25th.
ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Council Meeting adjourned at 7:48 p.m.
COMMENTS BY COUNCILMAN KARY
I apologize for the formatting issues in this summary.
For those who do not know, the Gas Station and Convenience Store that came before the Planning Commission a few weeks back has been approved. This has been all over Social Media the past several weeks. The property that was originally owned by the Millstein Family, who donated it to the Cleveland Clinic, was auctioned off. It was eventually purchased by the developer who applied to build the Station and Store. What is important here is that the property was on the market for several years. Also, it was zoned General Business. Someone was going to make the purchase with the intention of opening a business. With that in mind, there were not many options regarding the possible denial of this application. Gas stations are permitted in a General Business area. The Planning Commission also had a responsibility to ensure that the project would comply with all city ordinances and to eliminate as many negatives as possible. For the record, we did get many concessions from the developer regarding the project. All of those could be seen as positives for the area. The most important was the tree buffer that was left to the north of the location where the station will be constructed. We also were able to get the hours of operation to NOT BE 24-7. I promise to do my best to make this development the best Station in the City of Willoughby. Building will take place this summer.
REMEMBER: If you have any questions or concerns with Ward 2 or the City in general, PLEASE contact me via e-mail or phone!
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
https://willoughbyohio.com/city-council/