COUNCIL MEETING SUMMARY AUGUST 11, 2026

Willoughby City Council Meeting Summary

•  August 11, 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 MEETING:

Committee:  John Tomaselli, Ken Kary, Dan Anderson

*The purpose of the Safety Committee meeting is to discuss e-bikes and low-speed vehicles.

Mr. Tomaselli stated the discussion tonight is a continuation of the July 14 meeting on e-bikes and micromobility. He noted that Law Director McConville had distributed a revised ordinance and that Mayor Fiala had shared a memorandum summarizing resident concerns and the objectives behind the legislation. While the memo generated significant discussion, Mr. Tomaselli stated that many of its themes appeared to be reflected in the updated draft and asked Mr. McConville to summarize its key provisions. Mayor Fiala explained that the memorandum was not intended as a policy proposal but rather as a compilation of comments received from residents. He acknowledged that many of the comments conflicted with one another and were provided simply to help Council understand the range of community opinions.

Mr. McConville stated that the primary goal of the ordinance was to create regulations that are practical and enforceable. To achieve that, the draft removes distinctions between Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 e-bikes, applying a single set of rules to all e-bikes. He explained that police officers had indicated it is difficult to distinguish between classifications in the field. The ordinance also prohibits riding e-bikes on sidewalks. He stated that Council could designate certain streets where the sidewalk ban would not apply. The general rule now that is in the ordinance is that an e-bike is not permitted on a sidewalk. The ordinance establishes a minimum age of 16 for riders, and requires helmets for anyone under 18. He noted that existing traffic regulations, including prohibitions against reckless operation, would continue to apply alongside the proposed ordinance for both bicycles and e-bikes. Mr. McConville stated that Mayor Fiala’s memorandum raised several issues not directly addressed in the proposed ordinance. He stated that Council would need to determine how far Council wished to go in creating regulations and emphasized that the Police Department’s perspective would be important in determining what provisions are necessary to effectively control and regulate the conduct of concern.

Mr. Tomaselli stated that the designation of certain streets was an important consideration. He stated that other municipalities have adopted legislation distinguishing where riders may operate, such as allowing e-bikes on roads posted at 25 miles per hour or less while restricting sidewalk use except in limited areas.  He suggested that any list of designated streets would likely be manageable and would primarily involve roads with heavier traffic or higher speeds. Mr. Carr stated that attempting to create exceptions could make the ordinance unnecessarily complicated. He expressed concern that residents would not know which sidewalks were permitted and that police officers would face similar difficulty in enforcement. He asked Chief Schultz whether a simple rule prohibiting e-bikes on sidewalks would give the Police Department enough discretion to address unsafe conduct, such as a rider speeding down a sidewalk, while avoiding unnecessary enforcement against residents riding slowly and safely through a neighborhood.

Chief Schultz stated that the ordinance should be kept as simple as possible for residents and for enforcement purposes. He stated that while sidewalk riding may be safer in certain areas, such as along Route 91, Lost Nation Road, or Mentor Avenue, the key concern is the use of the motor, which allows e-bikes to reach speeds of 20 to 30 miles per hour or more. He stated that the proposed language allowing an e-bike to be pedaled on a sidewalk, but not operated with the motor engaged, addressed the primary safety concern. He stated he likes the provisions requiring helmets for riders under 18 and limiting e-bike operation to individuals at least 16 years old, explaining that these requirements would promote roadway safety and make the ordinance easier for residents to understand and accept.

Referring to subsection B, Mr. Carr stated that the prohibition on operating an e-bike on a sidewalk with the engine engaged appeared clear, but questioned whether the additional language regarding multi-use paths and mountain bike paths was necessary. He asked whether those provisions were intended as a catch-all for future facilities or whether they should be removed if they did not currently apply. Mr. McConville explained that the multi-use path language had been carried over from the existing ordinance to avoid unnecessarily disrupting current code language. Additional discussion clarified that Lost Nation Road includes a multi-use path on the east side, consisting of a wider sidewalk with a painted divider, and that the provision may therefore have current relevance. Mr. Carr asked that the language be reviewed to ensure that any provisions remaining in the ordinance are necessary and do not create confusion. Mr. Carr also questioned a provision requiring riders to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians on sidewalks. After discussion, it was clarified that the provision would apply when an e-bike is being pedaled on a sidewalk without the motor engaged, consistent with similar language applicable to bicycles.

Mr. Carr noted that, in addition to proposed Section 474.17, Mr. Luciano had identified several earlier provisions in Chapter 474 that appeared confusing or outdated, specifically referenced provisions beginning around Section 474.05 involving bicycle registration, including language requiring residents to obtain a form from the Mayor, register a bicycle, and receive a license plate. Mr. McConville explained that Chapter 474 contains a broader regulatory framework, much of which remains applicable, including general rules-of-the-road provisions and language prohibiting reckless bicycle operation. Mr. McConville also acknowledged that several sections are outdated or antiquated, including requirements that all bicycles in the City be registered with the Police Department and that secondhand bicycle dealers report inventory to the Police Department on a weekly basis. Mr. McConville suggested that those provisions likely date back to an earlier time when bicycle theft may have been a more significant issue and stated that five or six sections are no longer enforced, would not be enforced, and could be repealed. Mr. McConville emphasized, however, that the first portion of the chapter remains useful and should interact with the proposed e-bike ordinance to preserve enforcement flexibility. Mr. Carr requested that the outdated provisions be reviewed and repealed, if appropriate, at the same time the e-bike legislation is considered. Mr. McConville responded that repealing the outdated provisions would be straightforward. Mr. McConville explained that the larger question was whether Council wanted to review and revise any of the remaining portions of the chapter, which could become a more detailed project. Mr. McConville recommended that such a broader review not delay passage of the e-bike legislation, but agreed that the clearly antiquated provisions could be repealed as part of the current ordinance.

Mayor Fiala explained that the City anticipates undertaking a zoning code update that may span two fiscal years and that additional outdated code sections are likely to be identified through that process. Mayor Fiala stated that some issues may be addressed immediately, while larger code-related matters would likely be handled comprehensively as part of the broader update.

Mr. Tomaselli raised concerns about whether the proposed age restriction would be enforceable and whether age 16 was the appropriate threshold. Mr. Tomaselli noted that the draft had already removed distinctions among Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 e-bikes to simplify enforcement, but questioned whether officers could reliably determine whether a rider was 13, 14, 15, or 16 years old. Mr. Tomaselli also observed that, although age 16 is often associated with driver education and licensing, not every 16-year-old has gone through that process. Mr. Tomaselli expressed concern that prohibiting riders under 16 could affect a large number of families who had already purchased e-bikes for younger riders.

Mr. Anderson stated that e-bikes marketed for children are available at very young ages, including electric balance bikes for children as young as three years old that may reach speeds of approximately nine miles per hour. Mr. Anderson questioned whether Council intended to use age 16 specifically, or whether the ordinance should instead focus more generally on teenage riders. Mr. Tomaselli reiterated uncertainty about imposing an age restriction, noting that doing so would require officers to stop riders who appear underage and determine their age. Mr. Tomaselli suggested that some younger riders may be more responsible than some older riders and cautioned that an age restriction could alienate residents who had already invested in e-bikes, even though those riders would still be subject to all other safety regulations adopted by the City.

Mr. Luciano asked whether the age restriction would apply regardless of whether the e-bike’s motor was engaged, noting that the draft did not appear to distinguish between motor-assisted operation and pedaling for that provision. Mr. McConville confirmed that, as drafted, the age restriction would apply to the e-bike itself if it were equipped as an electric bicycle, regardless of whether the motor was engaged.

Mr. Carr asked Chief Schultz whether adding an age restriction would create unnecessary complexity for enforcement, particularly in light of the earlier discussion about keeping the ordinance simple. Chief Schultz stated that any ordinance changes would need to be accompanied by public education, so residents understand the new requirements. Chief Schultz estimated that a significant majority of e-bike riders observed by the Police Department are under age 16 and stated that the most common complaints involve young riders traveling in groups, moving in and out of traffic, disregarding traffic laws, and operating at speeds of 20 to 30 miles per hour or more. Chief Schultz stated that the City has a responsibility to make decisions that improve public safety and stated that, because the conduct prompting the complaints is generally associated with riders under 16, an age restriction would help address the concern. Chief Schultz acknowledged that enforcement would not always be easy, but expressed support for the draft age requirement, explaining that riders closer to driving age are generally more mature and more likely to have some exposure to roadway rules.

Mr. Kary stated that, based on personal observations, e-bikes are frequently operated by riders who appear to be under 16, often without helmets, with more than one rider on a bike, and sometimes in the middle of the roadway or in groups that create safety concerns for motorists. Mr. Kary agreed with Chief Schultz that, although some residents may object, the proposed restriction would be justified by the City’s responsibility to protect public safety.

Mr. Anderson asked whether, separate from any age restriction, police officers would already be able to cite a young rider for unsafe conduct such as riding in the middle of the road. Mr. Anderson questioned whether the ordinance was intended to address specific unsafe behaviors or whether the practical effect would be to prohibit children under 16 from riding e-bikes altogether. Mr. Kary responded that this concern was one reason he had previously suggested requiring license plates or similar identification for e-bikes. Mr. Kary explained that if a resident or police officer observed a child riding unsafely and could identify the e-bike, the Police Department could contact the rider’s parents and address the conduct without requiring a pursuit.

Mr. Anderson clarified that the concern was broader than identification. Mr. Anderson stated that many of the behaviors being discussed would be unsafe regardless of the rider’s age and questioned whether focusing on age might overlook the fact that the prohibited conduct itself is the core issue. Mr. Kary replied that enforcement is difficult when younger riders can quickly leave the area by turning onto side streets or riding through neighborhoods. Mr. Kary stated that residents are more likely to be able to document recurring unsafe conduct, such as repeated riding in the middle of the roadway, and that a means of identifying the e-bike could assist the Police Department in following up with parents.

Mr. Anderson stated that the age restriction remained difficult to support because many young riders do follow the rules and operate safely. Mr. Kary distinguished between e-bikes used on public streets and other motorized recreational vehicles used in designated areas. Mr. Kary noted that, while a young child may appropriately use a dirt bike or similar vehicle in a controlled setting designed for that purpose, the safety concerns are different when an e-bike is operated on public roads.

Chief Schultz explained that one purpose of setting the minimum age at 16 would be to reduce the number of e-bikes purchased for and operated by younger children over time. Chief Schultz stated that most of the unsafe conduct prompting the ordinance appears to involve riders under 16 and that a clear age cutoff would be easy for residents to understand. Chief Schultz emphasized that the intent was not to focus on citing 12-year-olds, but rather to reduce the likelihood that young riders would be placed in unsafe situations. Chief Schultz compared the rationale to school-zone speed limits, explaining that both are intended to protect vulnerable individuals and improve overall public safety.

Mr. McConville added that the issue also involves a rider’s ability to control an e-bike. Mr. McConville noted that e-bikes are generally heavier than traditional bicycles and can travel at higher speeds, which raises concerns about whether younger riders can stop or maneuver safely when approaching traffic or intersections. Mr. Carr observed that Mr. McConville’s comments reinforced the safety concerns raised by Chief Schultz and the broader responsibility to protect all residents.

Mr. Luciano noted that minors may obtain a temporary driving permit at age 15 and a half, which allows them to operate a motor vehicle with an adult present. Mr. Luciano questioned the consistency of allowing a 15 and a half year old to operate a car under supervision while prohibiting that same person from riding an e-bike if under age 16.

Chief Schultz responded that e-bikes and motor vehicles present different considerations. Chief Schultz explained that a temporary driving permit involves adult supervision and a structured learning process, whereas younger e-bike riders may operate independently without guidance. Chief Schultz stated that the department’s concerns are based on observed conduct, including riders under 16 weaving in and out of traffic, riding through downtown, crossing streets unsafely, and disregarding stop signs and traffic signals. Chief Schultz acknowledged that e-bikes can be a positive recreational outlet, but emphasized that the City would be unable to undo the harm if a young rider were seriously injured after the City chose not to act.

Mr. Carr asked whether there was anything specific or “magical” about age 16, or whether a different age, such as 14 or 15, might accomplish the same objective. Mr. Anderson observed that Ohio allows individuals to obtain a moped license at age 14 and questioned how that should affect the proposed age requirement for e-bike operation. Mayor Fiala noted that temporary permits and moped licenses involve an educational component, including some level of instruction or testing on safety rules. Mayor Fiala stated that the City is not the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and questioned whether it would be appropriate or practical for the City to create its own e-bike safety education requirement.

Mr. Carr asked whether the City would want to consider a safety class for younger e-bike riders, similar in concept to Safety Town, but acknowledged that doing so would add complexity to the ordinance and to the City’s responsibilities. Mayor Fiala expressed concern about whether the City should assume the responsibility or potential liability associated with operating an e-bike safety class. Mayor Fiala stated that guidance on e-bike safety requirements would more appropriately come from the State of Ohio rather than from the City developing and administering its own program.

Ms. Sievers suggested that, rather than specifying age 16, the ordinance could require a rider to possess a temporary permit, moped license, or other applicable authorization issued through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Ms. Sievers stated that tying the ordinance to state-issued credentials could avoid disputes over a specific age, account for the different ages at which the State allows various permits or licenses, and place the responsibility for basic road-safety knowledge within the existing state licensing framework. Mr. Carr asked whether the ordinance should include both an age threshold and a licensing option, or whether it should rely solely on the state credential requirement. Mr. Carr noted that the suggestion was a helpful alternative and acknowledged that the variety of state permit and licensing ages had not been fully considered earlier in the discussion. Mr. Anderson observed that relying solely on licensing could raise additional questions, including how the provision would treat individuals who may not obtain a full driver’s license until a later age. Mr. Tomaselli clarified that a temporary permit would at least require the applicant to pass a written test, even if the person had not completed driver training or taken a road examination. Mr. Tomaselli noted that this would provide some measure of demonstrated knowledge of roadway rules.

Ms. Sievers stated that a permit or license requirement would create a basic level of personal responsibility for younger riders. She stated that a motivated rider would need to learn the applicable rules, obtain the appropriate permit or license, and demonstrate at least some understanding of road safety before operating an e-bike. Mayor Fiala stated that many of the concerns being observed appear to stem from a lack of roadway education. Mayor Fiala noted that some younger riders do not appear to understand hand signals, rules of the road, traffic limitations, or the dangers of weaving through traffic, and suggested that education could address part of the problem.

Mr. Carr asked whether the ordinance could be tied to possession of a valid permit, license, or similar certificate issued through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, rather than relying solely on a specific age requirement. Chief Schultz stated that the permit or license concept was worth considering. Chief Schultz noted that, although it had not been discussed previously, it would create a minimum level of responsibility and require a young rider to take affirmative steps, such as going to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and obtaining a temporary permit or moped license, before operating an e-bike. Chief Schultz stated that this approach could achieve an effect similar to the proposed age-16 requirement by gradually reducing the number of e-bikes operated by younger children in the community.

Mr. Luciano raised concern for families that had already purchased e-bikes for their children and would be placed in the position of telling those children they could no longer ride them, even if the motor was not engaged. Mr. Luciano suggested that the ordinance could distinguish between motor-assisted operation and pedal-only use, similar to the sidewalk provision previously discussed. Under that approach, a younger rider could use an e-bike as a regular bicycle, provided the motor was not engaged and the rider complied with the rules of the road. Mr. Luciano explained that many parents are now purchasing e-bikes rather than traditional pedal bicycles for their children. Mr. Luciano expressed concern that a strict prohibition could unintentionally encourage parents to tell children they may ride only if they do not get caught, which would send the wrong message. Mr. Luciano reiterated that allowing pedal-only use, while prohibiting motor-assisted operation by younger riders, may better balance safety concerns with the practical reality that many families have already purchased e-bikes.

Mr. Tomaselli stated support for considering the pedal-only alternative and acknowledged that there were several useful ideas requiring further discussion. Mr. Tomaselli thanked everyone for the discussion, and expressed appreciation for the input provided noting that another discussion should take place.

The Safety Committee meeting adjourned at 6:57 p.m.

AGENDA

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

August 11, 2026

APPROVAL OF MINUTES-

Regular Council Meeting of July 14, 2026

STANDING AND REGULAR COMMITTEE REPORTS

Parks & Recreation Committee, Ms. Sievers – Ms. Sievers requested a committee meeting prior to the next Council meeting to discuss park hours and e-bikes in the parks.

Personnel Committee, Ms. Sievers – No report.

Safety Committee, Mr. Tomaselli – Mr. Tomaselli reported that the committee met this evening to discuss e-bike usage in the City; there may be another committee meeting to discuss the topic.

CORRESPONDENCE

Clerk Novak read a request from the Ohio Division of Liquor Control for a new C-2 and C-1 license for Ohio CVS Stores LLC, CVS Pharmacy 435, 6005 SOM Center Road, Willoughby, Ohio 44094. There were no objections.

PUBLIC PORTION

Doreen Langa, 37929 Clark Court, Willoughby, Ohio (Ward 5) -

Ms. Langa stated she was speaking tonight as a concerned downtown Willoughby resident regarding the increasing number of festivals and community events downtown and their impact on traffic, noise and safety. She stated she has lived in Willoughby for most of her life and has proudly called Clark Court home for the past 26 years. She values the vibrancy of downtown Willoughby and appreciates its restaurants, shops, markets, and community atmosphere. However, she believes it is important to balance the needs of businesses, visitors, and residents. Over the years, the number of downtown events has increased significantly, including 5K runs, Last Stop Willoughby, the tree lighting, chili cook-off, ice sculptures, rib cook-off, cruise-in, arts fest, Saturday markets, and others. What once caused occasional inconvenience now affects residents several times each year. These events bring larger crowds, road closures, noise, parking issues, and safety concerns for those who live downtown. Her concern is not with the events themselves, but with the continued expansion without clear guidance and meaningful resident input. She respectfully is asking the City to consider the following: when will the City determine that the number of downtown events is sufficient; what is criteria guide approval of new events; how often and under what authority may Route 20 be closed; when are festival proposals submitted by the bar and restaurant association and approved; how can residents provide input; and who pays for City workers, police, cleanup, staging, and related services. She is asking that the City review parking and traffic visibility near Clark Avenue and Clark Court, where parked vehicles can make it difficult and unsafe for residents to exit the street. Additional enforcement or clearer no-parking measures may help improve safety. She stated she appreciates the City’s efforts to create a vibrant, safe, and welcoming community. Her goal is to better understand the process and to help ensure downtown residents are included as the City considers future events and growth. Mayor Fiala suggested that Ms. Langa reach out to Shana Boyd to set up a meeting regarding her concerns.

Darlene Calore, 5419 SOM Center Road, Willoughby, Ohio -

Ms. Calore expressed concern about e-bike activity on sidewalks near her property. She reported multiple recent incidents involving riders traveling at high speeds on the sidewalk, cutting through her driveway and yard, and passing close to her while she was doing yard work. She noted that several riders appeared to be juveniles and were not wearing helmets. Ms. Calore stated that she contacted the Police Department and appreciated the dispatcher’s assistance, but expressed concern that riders can quickly leave the area through nearby cut-throughs, making enforcement difficult.  She also described an incident involving an adult rider who approached at a high speed, refused to slow down, used profanity, and continued around her. Ms. Calore asked the City to consider prohibiting motorized vehicles, including e-bikes, from sidewalks, noting that similar restrictions apply to mopeds, dirt bikes, and motorcycles.

Daniel Somrack, 4186 Madison Avenue, Willoughby, Ohio -

Mr. Somrack stated he is concerned about safety in downtown Willoughby, particularly the increase in intoxication, fights, threats, and disorderly behavior. Recently, while reading the Bible aloud downtown without amplification, he was threatened by an armed individual who was not a Willoughby resident. He is grateful to the bystanders and Officer Pitt for intervening. He stated that the Willoughby police officers are doing excellent work, but they appear stretched thin. The issue seems to be growing beyond Friday and Saturday nights and is now affecting Thursdays as well. He stated the oversaturation of alcohol consumption downtown is contributing to the decline in public safety and quality of life. He respectfully is asking Council to consider limiting alcohol sales after midnight as one possible step to address these concerns.

Tom Wares, 38178 Emsley Court, Willoughby, Ohio -

Mr. Wares stated that tree limbs along Westminster are hanging low and striking his RV when he drives to his development. He said he contacted the Service Director twice and was told trimming would likely occur in the fall, possibly October. He asked whether the City could trim the low-hanging branches sooner and offered to provide photos. It was confirmed that the trees are located on the tree lawn and that Service Director Knecht is aware of the issue.

Michelle Kocis, 718 Iroquois Trail, Willoughby, Ohio -

Ms. Kocis expressed concern about e-bike safety, particularly after dark. She described two recent incidents in which e-bike riders were difficult to see, appeared to be using bike lanes as travel lanes, and did not seem to follow traffic rules. She asked whether e-bike riders must follow specific regulations, obtain licenses, or complete safety training, and emphasized the need to clarify rules to protect both riders and drivers. Mr. Carr thanked Ms. Kocis for her comments and noted that e-bike safety and related legislation had been discussed earlier in the evening; the City is working to address these concerns and improve safety.

Laurie Williamson, 4294 Aimee Lane, Willoughby, Ohio –

Ms. Williamson stated she enjoys the concerts and appreciates having them in the community. However, the volume has become much louder than it used to be. She stated she sits with her friends near the former Citizens Bank and has always been able to enjoy the music while still talking. Lately, the music has been so loud that conversation is difficult, even from that distance. She would appreciate consideration of lowering the volume slightly.

NEW BUSINESS

ORDINANCE NO. 2026-99 Motion carried 7 to 0

An ordinance vacating and terminating a portion of an easement no longer necessary for storm sewer purposes located on Permanent Parcel No. 27A0150000230, Lake County, Ohio (Shankland Reserve).

Law Director McConville stated this is an easement that is going to be vacated; eliminating it would benefit the City because it is no longer in use. Mr. Tomaselli asked if there was anything in the easement i.e., sewers. Mr. McConville stated that that was his understanding. Mr. Carr stated that Council could either proceed based on the information available or table the matter until the next meeting when Mr. Lannon could provide additional input, adding that the next item should be discussed first because the two items may be related.

ORDINANCE NO. 2026-100. Motion carried 7 to 0

An ordinance accepting the Final Plat for Shankland Reserve, and declaring an emergency.

Mr. Carr stated that Shankland Reserve is a Sommers Group project, which also handled the Chagrin Mills project. Mr. Carr explained that the City has spent more than a year and a half trying to have the Sommers Group properly complete the retention basins at Chagrin Mills. The Service Department is frustrated, and the County has reported that the basins are not up to code. After speaking with Mr. McConville, Mr. Carr noted that Council has leverage and could reject or table the related agenda item. Mr. Carr recommended tabling the item to send a clear message that approval will not proceed until the Chagrin Mills issues are resolved; he also suggested tabling Ordinance No. 2026-99 if Ordinance No. 2026-100 is tabled, as the two matters are related. Mr. Kary agreed with the recommendation, noting the City has spent considerable time trying to get the Sommers Group to complete work.

RESOLUTION NO. 2026-101. Motion carried 7 to 0

A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a four (4) year agreement with Medicount Management, Inc. with successive one (1) year renewal options at a 0.25% increase over the base rate per year for services necessary to the collection of rates charged by the City of Willoughby for all Fire Department Emergency Medical and Rescue Squad Services provided to the residents and non-residents of the City, and declaring an emergency.

Chief Ungar noted that Medicount has handled the City’s EMS billing since the program began, and this item is a renewal of the existing contract for the next four years. Mr. Carr asked whether the City should periodically review EMS billing rates, noting that rates primarily affect insurance reimbursements and expressed concern about falling behind on allowable insurance payments. Chief Ungar explained that the City had gone more than 10 years without adjusting rates before the changes were made a few years ago, which had left the City well below other area fire departments. He stated that the City is now likely closer to the higher end of comparable rates, but he can confirm the current standing with Medicount. He also emphasized that the City controls its rates and may adjust them at any time. Mr. Carr recommended reviewing the rates to avoid another long delay between adjustments. Chief Ungar clarified that the renewal only covers Medicount’s EMS billing services and does not restrict the City from changing rates. He agreed that the prior delay was too long and noted that the previous rate and mileage adjustments had a significant impact on billing. Mr. Carr added, for clarification, that residents without insurance are not being charged directly. The billing rate is used for insurance purposes, and the City accepts the amount covered by insurance rather than increasing costs for the general population.

RESOLUTION NO. 2026-102. Motion carried 7 to 0

A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a contract with Ronyak Paving, Inc. in the amount of $720,720 for implementation of the 2026 Pavement Repair Program, and declaring an emergency.

Mr. Carr stated that Mr. Lannon also provided a copy of this report and the detailed street plan, which was very helpful. The project cost is approximately $720,000 compared to the original target of $1.2 million. Mr. Knecht stated the lower amount is intentional, as funds have been allocated to other projects, including erosion control work. This reduction accounts for the project being approximately 60% of the original budget target.

RESOLUTION NO. 2026-103. Motion carried 7 to 0

A resolution honoring and commending Willoughby-Eastlake Water Pollution Control Center employee Michael (Mike) Ackerman and thanking him for his twenty-seven (27) plus years of service to the City of Willoughby.

Mr. Knecht will read this resolution in its entirety.

RESOLUTION NO. 2026-104. Motion carried 7 to 0

A resolution designating public depositories for active funds of the City of Willoughby, Ohio, repealing Resolution No. 2021-67, and declaring an emergency.

Mr. Carr stated this lists the banks the City can use. Ms. Hoffman confirmed that was correct.

NOTE:

For accuracy, this section has been copied from the council meeting minutes

MAYORS REPORT

No report.

DIRECTOR’S REPORTS

Service Director Knecht – Mr. Knecht thanked Council for the passage of Resolution Nos. 2026-102 and 2026-103. Mr. Knecht recognized Mr. Ackerman’s service to the City and Mike Brooks, Assistant Superintendent at WPCC, for earning his Class 4 wastewater license. This is a significant achievement, and he appreciates his hard work and dedication. Mr. Kary stated that several Ward 2 residents have asked about the railroad tracks. He asked if there is anything the City can do realizing the City doesn’t own the tracks, to encourage repairs and maintenance? Mr. Knecht stated the City has submitted requests, and Mayor Fiala has worked to reach the appropriate contacts. Inspections have occurred, repairs have been recommended, and the City is waiting for those repairs to be completed.

Mr. Kary stated he wanted to raise a traffic concern at Shankland and Euclid. Residents report difficulty turning left from Shankland onto Euclid when vehicles turning right from Euclid onto Shankland block the intersection. Mr. Knecht stated that City Engineer Lannon is aware of the concern and staff are reviewing the issue. He stated he has observed the issue as well and understands the residents’ frustration.

Fire Chief Ungar – Chief Ungar thanked Council for the passage of Resolution No. 2026-101.

Police Chief Schultz – Chief Schultz congratulated Mike Ackerman on his career and best wishes for a long and enjoyable retirement. Regarding the concerns raised about downtown Willoughby, Chief Schultz stated these concerns are taken seriously. Downtown safety remains a priority, especially during the summer months when visitor activity increases. The department’s goal is to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for everyone, and the department will continue to review concerns and adjust as needed. Regarding golf carts, Mr. Anderson stated it’s his understanding is that, for a golf cart to be street legal in Ohio, it must be inspected by a police officer. He asked if the department currently inspects golf carts. Chief Schultz stated that currently the department does not. However, legislation is being developed that includes the inspection. To make a golf cart street legal, several requirements must be considered, including brake lights, a license plate, seat belts, turn signals, and other safety equipment. Police inspection is one component currently under discussion.

Chief Building and Zoning Inspector Keller – No report. Mr. Anderson stated he received an email from a resident regarding a house near downtown that neighbors said had been vacant for six years. The resident was interested in living there, and Mr. Anderson explained that the City could only determine whether there were any violations. After reviewing emails, Mr. Anderson did not find any related violation records. Mr. Keller responded that there are no ordinances specifically addressing vacant properties as long as they are maintained, and suggested the resident could review county records to contact the property owner.

Parks & Recreation Director Keller – Ms. Keller reported that this is the final week for the Osborne Park pool’s regular season. The pool will close on Sunday, then remain open on weekends through Labor Day. Ms. Sievers asked for an update on the Osborne Park construction project, noting increased activity at the site this week, including rock deliveries, and asked whether the work was still in phase one or nearing the next stage. Ms. Keller explained that phases one and two are being completed at the same time. Most of the sand has been placed on the east section, work continues on the platform, and recent rock deliveries are being used to fill the circular area at the end of the platform before concrete is poured. After that, armor stone will be installed up to the platform and along the side walls, with crews continuing to work from the west and east toward the center.

Finance Director Hoffman – Ms. Hoffman thanked Council for passage of Resolution No. 2026-104.

COUNCIL REPORTS

No significant reports

ADJOURNMENT

The Regular Council Meeting adjourned at 7:56 p.m.

COMMENTS BY COUNCILMAN KARY

I was aware of several rumors and incorrect comments on Facebook regarding the new Gas Station that will be constructed on Lost Nation Road and Tamarac. 

Because so much of it was incorrect, I wrote the following for clarification.

Here is my Facebook post:

The gas station is on track.

Quite a few errors in the comments on Facebook.

EPA permits are all in place.  No EPA issues needed attention.

That has never been an issue.

Contractors are all being scheduled.

The station will be SHELL.

For everyone's understanding, the Planning Commission scrutinized this project more than most!

Planning Commission put many checks/limits on the project to assure its operation would be more acceptable on all levels.

One example is the hours of operation. The owner asked for 24/7, and the Planning Commission negotiated that there would be no operations past 11 pm.

This was a very big issue to negotiate and the city did that for the neighborhood.

I wrote to dispel rumors regarding EPA and so forth.

Those who know me understand that I'm concerned about all sides of an issue and that I am very transparent with our residents.

Some may be against this project, but please hear that this property was zoned General Business and has been for sale for a long long time. The Owner is putting a substantial investment into this endeavor.  I would have to say he is investing substantially in WARD 2.

My job is to ensure it is the best station it can be, aesthetically and professionally.

We have worked with Police, Fire and all Engineers to address any and all concerns.

I would suspect that construction will begin in September.

Take care and enjoy the closing Summer Months!!!

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/