COUNCIL MEETING SUMMARY JUNE 9, 2026
Willoughby City Council Meeting Summary
• June 9, 2026 •
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:
Safety Committee, Mr. Tomaselli – Mr. Tomaselli requested a 30-minute committee meeting in July to discuss e-bikes and golf carts.
AGENDA
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
June 9, 2026
Absent: Councilmen Kary and Luciano
APPROVAL OF MINUTES-
Regular Council Meeting of May 19, 2026
STANDING AND REGULAR COMMITTEE REPORTS
No committee reports
CORRESPONDENCE
No correspondence
PUBLIC PORTION
No one spoke
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Motion made by Mr. Anderson and seconded by Mr. Garry that the rules of Council requiring three separate readings be suspended and that Resolution No. 2026-56 be declared an emergency measure.
Roll Call 5 yes
0 no Motion carried 5 to 0
Motion made by Mr. Anderson and seconded by Mr. Garry to adopt Resolution No. 2026-56.
Roll Call 5 yes
0 no Motion carried 5 to 0
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-56 - Second Reading
A resolution approving Change Order No. 1 in the River Street Waterline Replacement and Soil Stabilization Project with Fabrizi Trucking & Paving Co., Inc. and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated this resolution was handled as a first reading at the last meeting because, traditionally, with change orders, the City needs the contractor to first sign which they hadn’t done. Mr. Lannon stated this resolution pertains to the retaining wall extension on River Street, across from South Street. The Route 84 work will take place first, and this project will follow immediately afterward, likely in August or September. Mr. Lannon stated the Rt. 84 project will begin approximately July 1st or earlier. The primary reason for that sequence is that, with the change order only now approved, the contractor has not yet been able to order the steel, and that procurement requires additional time.
NEW BUSINESS
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-58 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution repealing Resolution No. 2026-45 submitting to the electors of the City of Willoughby, the question of a renewal of a nine-tenths (0.9) of one mill tax levy for the purpose of current expenses, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated that there are four pieces of legislation; two resolutions repealing prior legislation and two replacements due to updated statutory language requirements. Ms. Hoffman stated there was a change in the Ohio Revised Code, which now requires the legislation to include the specific levy amount expressed per $100,000 of valuation. Mr. McConville clarified that in Resolution No. 2026-59, the updated version, a third “whereas” clause has been added to track the statutory language and specify the required dollar amount. Mr. Tomaselli asked whether the City was responsible for calculating the amounts, and Ms. Hoffman explained that the county provides both the revenue projections and the rate per thousand; the City’s responsibility is only to incorporate those figures into the legislation.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-59 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution pursuant to Sections 5705.19 and 5705.191 of the Ohio Revised Code submitting to the electors of the City of Willoughby, County of Lake, State of Ohio, the question of a renewal of a nine-tenths (0.9) of one mill tax levy for the purpose of current expenses.
No discussion.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-60 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution repealing Resolution No. 2026-46 submitting to the electors of the City of Willoughby, the question of a renewal of a two (2) mill tax levy for the purpose of general construction, reconstruction, resurfacing, and repair of streets, roads, and bridges in the City, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated this resolution repeals the previous two (2) mill road levy.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-61 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution pursuant to Sections 5705.19 and 5705.191 of the Ohio Revised Code submitting to the electors of the City of Willoughby, County of Lake, State of Ohio, the question of a renewal of a two (2) mill tax levy for the purpose of general construction, reconstruction, resurfacing, and repair of streets, roads, and bridges in the City.
No discussion.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-62 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution authorizing the Director of Parks and Recreation to prepare specifications and to advertise for bids for Playground Equipment and Park Amenities necessary to the Daniels Park Playground, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated that Ms. Keller distributed a memo regarding this resolution, explaining that $125,000 was added to the capital budget because the prior estimate exceeded the amount originally allocated. Mr. Carr asked whether the bid specifications would require a specific playground configuration or solicit general design proposals. Ms. Keller explained that the City provides basic parameters such as size and identifies features to avoid such as “bubble” windows that scratch easily, while allowing vendors to propose the actual playground design.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-63 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution authorizing the City Engineer to prepare plans and specifications and to advertise for bids for the Lincoln Avenue Storm Sewer Replacement Project, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Lannon explained that this project became a priority after a home rebuild revealed significant issues locating laterals, and the sewer could not even be televised due to its condition. The system dates back to approximately 1923, with partial replacements completed in the late 1980s, leaving older infrastructure now serving as part of the storm system. As a result, many of these aging lines are deteriorating, with roughly a dozen streets in similar condition. Lyon is currently on the list, though others such as Buckeye have already required emergency repairs due to collapse. He stated that this reflects the broader challenge of maintaining infrastructure that has reached or exceeded its 100-year lifespan, adding that Lincoln is prioritized and supported in part by OPWC funding.
Mr. Carr stated that storm sewer projects appear to be an ongoing and extensive need, Mr. Lannon stated that the City is largely addressing aging infrastructure rather than expanding capacity. Mr. Tomaselli asked whether the work is being driven by immediate issues or is it preventative. Mr. Lannon stated that the system has already begun collapsing in places, as evidenced by the inability to inspect it with a camera, though there have been no widespread reports of basement flooding. Mr. Anderson stated he noticed frequent water line breaks on Second Street and asked whether water line replacement should be coordinated with the sewer work. Mr. Lannon explained that the water system differs, with some streets having dual mains installed historically for capacity, although service connections may still be tied to older lines. He stated that coordination with the county on such projects is important and acknowledged ongoing discussions to better align future planning efforts.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-64 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution authorizing the City Engineer to prepare plans and specifications and to advertise for bids for the 2026 Concrete Pavement Slab Replacement Project, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr asked whether the $400,000 estimate is typical year over year. Answering Mr. Anderson’s question regarding the water, Mr. Lannon clarified that the amount reflects a strategic approach to funding, explaining that the City often structures projects around available grants, approximately $200,000 toward a $400,000 project to maximize outside funding. He stated that combining projects, such as including water main work, could significantly increase total costs (potentially $800,000 or more) without guaranteeing additional grant support, thereby reducing the City’s funding advantage. As a result, the City is proceeding with the storm sewer work independently while continuing to explore better coordination with Lake County for future projects.
Mr. Lannon stated that the $400,000 slab program represents a practical funding “sweet spot,” though actual needs may be greater. Mr. Carr asked whether repairs tend to focus on the same streets each year. Mr. Lannon confirmed that roads such as Lost Nation are recurring priorities due to their size and heavy use, noting that concrete road maintenance is an ongoing challenge with limited mid-level repair options compared to asphalt. Mr. Tomaselli asked whether a specific list of repair locations is available for the current year. Mr. Lannon stated that a defined project list was developed as part of the grant process and offered to share it.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-65 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution authorizing an expenditure in the amount of $263,263.28 for the purchase of one (1) 2027 Pro Patch TCM 500-100-DHE Asphalt Patch Truck from Doggett Freightliner of South Texas LLC -Austin for use by the Street Department, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Knecht stated this purchase will replace the 1991 unit. He stated he included pricing from other options received in his memo and after reviewing those options and considering the service life the City obtained from the current unit, Mr. Knecht is confident in moving forward with this selection. It is also the lowest-cost option by a significant margin.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-66 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a contract with the Sutphen Corporation, in the amount of $999,698, through the State of Ohio Cooperative Purchasing Program, for the purchase of one (1) 2026 Sutphen Pumper HS-8469 Stock 652 necessary to the operation of the Willoughby Fire Department, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr sought clarification that the funding is to be divided approximately two-thirds from capital funds and one-third from the safety levy. Chief Ungar confirmed that was correct. As discussed during the capital discussion, Chief Ungar stated the unit is already in production and currently being built. While it is not an exact match the department’s specifications, it is very close and is available at a significantly lower price. He also anticipates receiving funds back at some point, although the exact amount is not yet known. The direct trade-in value offered by the company is relatively low. He has discussed with Ms. Hoffman the possibility of exploring other options, including using a broker to sell the unit externally if the trade-in value does not improve. The company has begun asking additional questions, so there is a possibility that the offer may increase. Funds received would go back to the capital fund.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-67 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a contract with Lake County Landscape & Supply, Inc. in the amount of $149,166 for the SOM Center Rd Commercial Sidewalk Project, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated that this sidewalk project involves the Walgreens and Wendy’s properties. Mr. Lannon confirmed that the work would address the remaining frontage. He stated that a portion had been incorporated into the previous sidewalk project because of the bus shelter, but the current project would complete the remaining frontage, including the portion turning the corner onto Ridge Road. Once the project is completed, the cost will be assessed to the property owner. Mr. Carr stated that the property owners could either pay the assessment in full or have it placed on their property tax bill; the City will pay the project cost upfront and later be reimbursed.
Mr. Tomaselli asked how reimbursement would be handled through property taxes and whether the amount would appear as an additional charge on the property owner’s tax bill. Ms. Hoffman confirmed that the assessment would be added to the property tax bill. Ms. Hoffman explained that, when the County remits the payment after it is collected, it is reported to the City as a special assessment for sidewalks. Mr. Tomaselli asked whether the City determines the length of the repayment period, noting that three years had been mentioned. Ms. Hoffman stated that a three-year period is typically used for residential assessments, but she is unsure whether the County would extend the timeframe for a commercial assessment of this amount. She stated that once the cost is broken down by parcel for Wendy’s and the other affected property, the plan is to bill the property owners directly and give them the opportunity to pay upfront before the amount is assessed to the tax duplicate. Mr. Tomaselli asked whether there is a special account for receiving those funds or whether the reimbursement would be deposited into the General Fund. Ms. Hoffman explained that the related legislation involves the Corporate Maintenance Fund, which is used to pay for sidewalk projects other than City-owned sidewalks. Any reimbursement received would be returned to that fund. She noted that a transfer would be necessary because the fund does not currently have sufficient money to cover the upfront project cost.
Mr. Tomaselli stated that he and Mr. Lannon have been talking about sidewalks on Gale, Cheltenham and Hurricane, and that such a project could cost a similar amount. He stated the City is spending approximately $145,000 on sidewalk improvements near Walgreens when there is a safety need for elementary school children walking to school in residential areas without sidewalks. He suggested that, if a similar assessment process is available, the City could consider a future sidewalk project in 2027 and allow affected homeowners to pay over time if they did not wish to pay the full amount upfront.
Mr. Carr stated that the City has previously considered sidewalk options over many years, including the possibility of adopting legislation requiring sidewalks for safety reasons and assessing the cost to property owners. He stated that when that option was discussed for SOM Center Road, residential property owners strongly objected, and similar concerns should be anticipated for Hurricane Road. Mr. Tomaselli agreed that objections are likely, particularly because some properties have extensive frontage. He noted that Gale differs somewhat because the lots are narrower, but reiterated that sidewalk improvements near schools present a stronger safety issue for the City to address than sidewalk improvements outside Walgreens. Mr. Tomaselli stated that if the City can use a similar process for residential sidewalk projects, we could consider pursuing such an effort the following year.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-68 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a contract with CJ Excavating & Construction, LLC for the implementation of the 2026 Voluntary Concrete Sidewalk Repair & Replacement Program with an additional City option for one (1) year renewal option for 2027, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated the City has been using the same sidewalk vendor, but rates have increased. Mr. Lannon stated that it’s due to prevailing wage requirements tied to the annual contract value of approximately $100,000. He stated pricing has nearly doubled from last year, now estimated around $28–$30 per square foot for smaller, spot repairs, compared to roughly $15 per square foot for larger, continuous projects like commercial work. While establishing a contract provides cost certainty, there is concern about whether it will be utilized given the higher rates. Mr. Carr stated that homeowners may seek alternative contractors due to cost, and Mr. Lannon indicated the City may shift toward providing guidance such as a list of registered contractors rather than coordinating work directly.
Mr. Lannon explained that the City previously handled measurements, pricing, coordination, and payment processing, offering convenience but requiring significant staff effort. Moving forward, homeowners may assume more responsibility, similar to how sewer repairs are handled after a dye test. Mr. Tomaselli questioned whether the City benefits from remaining involved, noting potential costs if residents do not proceed after estimates are prepared. Mr. Lannon suggested that homeowners might obtain better pricing independently, particularly by avoiding prevailing wage requirements.
Mr. Anderson stated that the program still offers practical advantages. From a homeowner’s perspective, it simplifies the process, ensures timely completion, and allows property transfers to proceed without waiting for construction. Even at higher prices, the convenience and coordination may still make the program valuable. Ultimately, while rising costs may reduce participation, the program continues to provide a streamlined option for residents who prioritize ease and timing over price.
ORDINANCE NO. 2026-69 Motion carried 5 to 0
An ordinance authorizing the Mayor to enter into an agreement with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and requesting the cooperation of the Director of the Ohio Department of Transportation to resurface Euclid Ave (US-20) from 240' east of the Lake County western line to the western gutterline of SOM Center Rd (SR 91) in the cities of Wickliffe, Willowick, and Willoughby in Lake County, and install pedestrian enhancements between Bellview St and 260' east of
E. 300th St which includes curb, sidewalk replacement and site amenities, and declaring an emergency.
Per Mr. Lannon’s memo, Mr. Carr stated that this project is mostly in Wickliffe, noting that it includes a portion of Willowick and extends toward SOM Center Road. Mr. Lannon explained that the project originated as an earmark application and was later incorporated into OPWC funding. To strengthen the application, a segment of Willoughby was added to create a more logical project boundary rather than ending at the Wickliffe line. He stated the project is expected to be nearly cost-free for the City due to grant offsets, with Wickliffe assuming responsibility for design, administration, and coordination. Willoughby’s role is limited to approving required ODOT resolutions as they arise.
Mr. Anderson asked how far the paving would extend toward SOM Center Road. Mr. Lannon stated that the legislation specifies work up to the gutter line, which he interprets as stopping short of the stop bar or crosswalk rather than extending fully into the intersection, though final confirmation will require review of the project plans. Mr. Lannon stated that it is anticipated to go out to bid in November, with construction likely occurring in 2027.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-70 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution approving an agreement between the Ohio Patrolmen's Benevolent Association (Service Department) and the City of Willoughby, Ohio, and declaring an emergency.
Ms. Hoffman stated the terms of the agreement are similar to the other union contracts.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-71 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution authorizing the Director of Parks & Recreation to make application to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources through the State of Ohio NatureWorks Fund for the purpose of acquiring financial assistance for the construction of an accessible fishing platform at Daniels Park, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated that he thought this was a great idea although the initial $3,000 funding allocation would cover only a small portion of the total cost. Ms. Keller explained that while the initial funding is limited, Kiwanis through Sue Roseum is committed to assisting with fundraising efforts to support the project. The proposed location is adjacent to the riverside parking area and away from the existing platform.
The project includes an accessible fishing platform, including a concrete sidewalk and ramp leading to a structure extending over the river. Ms. Keller stated that the current estimate reflects a high-end design, though costs could potentially be reduced if necessary. Regarding timing, the NatureWorks grant application is due July 1, with award decisions expected in November and project funds typically required to be expended by the end of fiscal year 2027. Mr. Tomaselli asked whether the project would proceed without grant funding, and Ms. Keller indicated that alternative funding sources would need to be identified. This could include a combination of grant awards, Kiwanis fundraising, private contributions, or potentially a future capital request if a funding gap remains.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-72 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution authorizing the Director of Finance to transfer funds from the General Fund to the Corporate Maintenance Fund, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr clarified that this transfer would cover the sidewalk near Walgreens; previously discussed this evening.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-73 Motion carried 5 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 several of the items were administrative adjustments to previously approved appropriations that have now been finalized. Some line items were initially overbudgeted, and due to increased costs in other awarded areas such as LEAD certification and weapons. In the Road and Bridge fund, additional revenue from OPWC that had not originally been included was incorporated into this year’s budget. For Corporate Maintenance, now that corresponding revenue is being received, the associated expenses have been added to reflect the cost of services. Funding is also being transferred to cover planning costs for the Todd Amphitheater project. Lastly, an increase was included in the sewer fund to address expenses related to the recent incident at Tamarac.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-74 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a Cooperative Use Agreement between the City of Willoughby and the State of Ohio through the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC) to provide financial assistance for the Willoughby Amphitheater, as part of the Todd Field Improvements Project, and declaring an emergency.
Ms. Keller explained that the City was awarded $300,000 in Spring 2024 through the State Capital Budget (FY 2021–2022). As the project moves forward, the City must now enter into a Cultural Project Cooperative Use Agreement. This resolution goes hand in hand with Ordinance 2026-50, which authorizes the Mayor to solicit bids for the Todd Field improvements. A portion of the grant funding will reimburse costs for the plans prepared by Verdantas, with the remaining funds applied toward construction. Ms. Keller stated that the bid solicitation is actively underway, having been advertised with outreach to seven companies, including both distributors and private firms, and that bid responses are expected to be presented at the July meeting. Mr. Tomaselli asked whether this funding was separate from previously received ARPA funds. Ms. Keller confirmed that the $300,000 grant is an additional funding source.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-75 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution approving the use of submerged lands for purposes of shoreline improvements, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr asked whether this requirement is new or unique for submerged lands on the lakefront. Mr. McConville stated that while it may not have always been actively enforced, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) requires property owners to obtain a submerged land lease when making improvements in areas below the waterline. As part of that process, the property owner must also secure municipal confirmation that the submerged land is not needed for public use.
Mr. Carr asked whether this requirement applies only to work occurring in the water, as opposed to projects limited to the shoreline. Mr. McConville stated he didn’t know the answer to that off the top of his head. Mr. Keller explained that in this case the work involves a revetment extending into the water to stabilize the shoreline, which triggers the requirement. He stated this process has not always been required in the past, ODNR has elected to enforce it for this project. Regarding the work at Osborne Park, Mr. Keller stated that the City needed an ODNR permit and floodplain permits. Ms. Keller stated the lease for Osborne is $1 a year.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-76 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution authorizing an expenditure in an amount not to exceed $150,000 from the Willoughby Sewer Fund for the Emergency Replacement of a Sanitary Sewer Main Structure, and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Knecht stated this involved a tall sanitary manhole located along a slope where a privacy mound had been constructed. The mound failed and slid, causing the manhole approximately 10 feet in height to topple. Fortunately, the structural damage was limited, with the primary impact being dirt obstruction within the line rather than damage to the pipe itself. Crews were able to clear the blockage, inspect the line via camera to confirm its integrity, and reconstruct the manhole. The majority of the repair work has been completed, with only site restoration and hydroseeding remaining. Additional stabilization measures were implemented to prevent a recurrence. Mr. Carr asked about the structure’s height and how the failure was identified. Mr. Knecht stated that the manhole extended significantly above ground due to the elevation of the privacy mound. Detection of the issue was prompted by a decrease in flow at the Lakeshore pump station, indicating a system disruption. A resident in Eastlake who noticed a sewer odor, allowing staff to pinpoint the problem location near the municipal boundary.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-77 Motion carried 5 to 0
A resolution approving Change Order No. 1 in the 2025 Pavement Marking Project Contract with J.D. Striping & Services, Inc., and declaring an emergency.
Mr. Carr stated this extends the contract for another year with the same pricing.
NOTE:
For accuracy, this section has been copied from the council meeting minutes
MAYORS REPORT
Absent.
DIRECTOR’S REPORTS
Law Director McConville – Mr. Carr welcomed Mr. McConville to the City. Mr. McConville stated he appreciates how welcoming everyone has been.
Service Director Knecht – No report. Mr. Knecht thanked Council for the passage of legislation pertaining to the Service Department.
Mr. Carr commended the department for improvements to the animal trapping program, describing a recent personal experience with a raccoon issue. Within an hour of reporting the problem, the contractor responded promptly, demonstrated professionalism, and utilized advanced tools, including multiple traps and a trail camera. Two raccoons were captured overnight, and detailed information was provided regarding their movements, including timing and point of origin. Mr. Knecht credited Aly Cooper from the department for identifying and recommending the contractor. He stated that after a thorough review and interview process involving staff, the team felt confident in the selection. The new provider has exceeded expectations and represents a significant improvement over prior services. Mr. Carr asked about the use of funds associated with the SOM corridor. He suggested evaluating and prioritizing potential projects for the funds, including cleanup of the Big Turtle Two basin, sidewalk extensions to improve neighborhood connectivity, and possible sewer-related improvements.
.
City Engineer Lannon – Mr. Lannon stated that revisiting priorities for the SOM fund is a worthwhile initiative. He noted that a project list had been developed approximately three years ago when the fund was established and indicated staff will review and update that list for consideration.
Regarding a sidewalk project (in Mr. Lannon’s memo) extending along Ridge Road from Wickliffe to SOM Center Road, Mr. Carr asked about the funding. Mr. Lannon explained that the project is supported by a Laketran grant that was originally expected to cover the full construction cost. However, project estimates increased from approximately $130,000 to between $175,000 and $200,000. As a result, the City has requested additional funding from Laketran, approximately $75,000 to bridge the gap. The request has been submitted for consideration at the board’s June meeting, and, if approved, the City will be positioned to proceed with the project using the current bids.
Mr. Tomaselli asked about the ongoing Vine Street closure, asking about the anticipated duration of construction. Mr. Lannon stated that the initial timeline was approximately ten days, with completion ideally targeted for mid-next week, though not yet confirmed. Mr. Tomaselli also questioned whether traffic could have been maintained in one direction, but Mr. Lannon indicated that traffic volume, including bus routes, made a full closure the safer and more practical option.
Mr. Carr asked about the issue of sidewalk spalling and the status of corrective action. Mr. Lannon confirmed that the City is still withholding payment and is working toward a resolution with the contractor. The contractor attributed the issue to an ODOT concrete mix used in 2024, which has been independently corroborated. Contributing factors such as heavy salt exposure along Route 91 were also discussed. He stated he is hoping there is a remedy before October with either replacement or live with it.
Fire Chief Ungar – Chief Ungar thanked Council for the passage of Resolution No. 2026-66.
Police Chief Schultz – Chief Schultz stated that with the arrival of warmer weather and increased activity throughout the community, he stated the department is maintaining a strong and visible presence to support public safety. This includes downtown foot patrols, neighborhood bike patrols, and ongoing monitoring of Osborne Park, particularly in and around the active construction zone. The department has received recurring reports of trespassing and minor vandalism in that area, and while the department is addressing these issues proactively, he encourages continued community awareness and cooperation.
In addition, motorcycle units are deployed weekly and remain active in traffic enforcement to promote roadway safety. Through ongoing federal and state grant support, the department continues to focus on proactive enforcement at local hotels, as well as narcotics-related activity. Today, officers also assisted in the successful apprehension of an individual who had been wanted for some time. Mr. Garry thanked Chief Schultz for the extra patrol on Robinhood and Harmony. Regarding the new police station, Chief Schultz stated that some construction is on hold while they wait for permanent power in the building. Waterproofing of the outside of the building began yesterday with grading taking place soon.
Chief Building and Zoning Inspector Keller – Mr. Keller thanked Council for the passage of Resolution No. 2026-75. Mr. Tomaselli asked about the Valvoline location across from the hospital. Mr. Keller stated they had to run the sewer line to a different location.
Parks & Recreation Director Keller – Ms. Keller thanked Council for the passage of the resolutions pertaining to her department. She stated she will be putting a fishing pier survey on Facebook; please reshare the post. The first concert is tomorrow night at Osborne Park.
Mr. Tomaselli asked about updates regarding the former Andrews Nursery site near Daniels Park. Ms. Keller stated that a meeting is scheduled for June 22nd to review 30% design plans, at which time permit applications are expected to be submitted. Mr. Tomaselli asked whether work could proceed prior to permit approval, and Ms. Keller stated that permits primarily apply to elements such as river work and the bridge. Mr. Tomaselli asked whether the permitting timeline could mirror the extended delays experienced with the Osborne project. Ms. Keller stated that a pre-application has already been completed, meaning the Army Corps is aware of the project and has a general timeline for its submission.
Finance Director Hoffman – Ms. Hoffman thanked Council for the passage of the resolutions pertaining to her department. Mr. Tomaselli asked about the potential use of TIF funds for sidewalk improvements at the Walgreens site, specifically whether those funds could have been used with the expectation of being reimbursed through tax revenues, or alternatively transferred to another fund. Ms. Hoffman stated that improvements funded through the TIF are considered the City’s responsibility, whereas, in this case, the sidewalk installation is the responsibility of the commercial property owner. The intent in transferring funds was to facilitate payment upfront, with the expectation that the property owner would ultimately cover the cost through assessment. Mr. Tomaselli asked whether TIF funds are generally appropriate for sidewalk projects. Mr. Carr stated that such funding may be considered for residential areas, prior guidance has been that commercial property owners should bear the cost of their own sidewalk improvements.
COUNCIL REPORTS
Ms. Sievers – Ms. Sievers welcomed Mr. McConville. She asked residents to not jump the construction fence at Osborne Park as it’s a safety concern.
ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Council Meeting adjourned at 7:56 p.m.
COMMENTS BY COUNCILMAN KARY
Just a few quick comments:
Construction of the Gas Station/Convenience Store at Tamarac and Lost Nation will begin in about four weeks. I will keep you posted and assure you that I will do all in my power to make it the nicest facility possible in terms of construction/landscaping, and aesthetics.
There has been interest expressed about a buyer for the property across from Hodgson Road on the West Side of Lost Nation Road. I will keep you informed if and when it comes before the Planning Commission.
Since it is a “summer vacation” schedule for the Council, I have less to share and discuss, so I will keep this section brief.
Please attend the Summer Music Concerts at Point Park in DTW as well as the GREAT CONCERTS @ Osborne Park!!!
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/