Garfield Heights public meetings in 2025

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

The Garfield Heights Board of Control met on Dec. 8, 2025 to review bids for the MLK Jr. Blvd Sewer Separation Project, Phases 2 and 3 covering S. Parkway and Thornhurst Avenue reconstruction. The engineer’s estimated base cost is $2,682,538. After evaluating six bids, the lowest responsive and responsible bidder was identified as Fabrizi Trucking with a total of $2,522,967.80, including the optional alternate. No bidding irregularities were found.

• Engineer’s base cost estimate: $2,682,538 for combined reconstruction
• Bid alternate #1 (CIPP sanitary lateral lining) priced at $159,300
• Lowest responsive bidder: Fabrizi Trucking – $2,522,967.80 (base + alternate)
• Six bids received; no unbalanced bidding or irregularities observed
• Project schedule: start 02/02/2026, completion 10/09/2026

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

The Garfield Heights City Council is adopting an updated Ohio Fire Code and declaring it an emergency. It is also approving a memorandum of understanding for two school resource officers, finalizing appropriations for current expenditures for fiscal years 2025 and 2026, and authorizing contracts for the Thornhurst sewer separation and South Parkway reconstruction projects. Additional actions include adopting a new employee handbook, designating certain parcels as public purpose, contracting for external financial statements, and authorizing grant applications for aging services and violent crime reduction.

• Ordinance 97-2025: Amend Section 1501.01 to adopt the updated Ohio Fire Code (1998 edition) as an emergency measure.
• Ordinance 98-2025: Approve a memorandum of understanding for two School Resource Officers, with the school district covering 50% of costs.
• Ordinances 99-2025 and 100-2025: Make final appropriations for current expenditures for FY2025 and FY2026.
• Ordinance 101-2025: Authorize a contract with City Engineers – OHM Advisors for the Thornhurst Sewer Separation project and payment of costs.
• Ordinance 102-2025: Authorize a contract with City Engineers – OHM Advisors for the South Parkway Reconstruction project and payment of costs.

The council voted 6-0 to excuse Councilman Kelley from the December 8 meeting. It also voted 6-0 to approve the minutes from the November 24, 2025 meeting. No other actions were voted on during this session.

• Excused Councilman Kelley from meeting (6-0)
• Approved minutes of Nov 24, 2025 meeting (6-0)

Committee & Board Meeting Agendas

The Board of Control is meeting to consider bids for the MLK Jr. Blvd Sewer Separation Project, specifically Phases 2 and 3. The project involves roadway reconstruction, sewer installation, and sidewalk replacement on S. Parkway Drive and Thornhurst Avenue.

• Bids for S. Parkway Drive and Thornhurst Avenue reconstruction
• Engineer's official estimate of $2,682,538.00 for combined base bid
• Lowest responsive bidder identified as Fabrizi Trucking at $2,522,967.80 (Base Bid + Alternate #1)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Garfield Heights Planning Commission will consider two applications at its December 3, 2025 meeting. One requests lot consolidation for parcels 543‑39‑054 & 543‑39‑053 on Valley Ranch Drive to build a new home (U‑1 Single Family). The other requests demolition of a back porch and addition of a kitchen, bath, closet, and den at 5118 East 114" Street (U‑1 Single Family). The agenda also lists the residential meeting fee of $75 and the commercial meeting fee of $150.

• Lot consolidation for parcels 543‑39‑054 & 543‑39‑053 on Valley Ranch Drive (U‑1) – applicant Robert Harmon, represented by Molly Decker of Schumacher Homes
• Remodel request for 5118 East 114" Street (U‑1) – applicant Janine Elamin, represented by Randell Exterior Construction, LLC
• Residential meeting fee: $75.00
• Commercial meeting fee: $150.00

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting on December 3, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 5407 Turney Road lists no agenda items. The board therefore has no specific items to discuss as per the agenda.

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

The Garfield Heights City Council is voting on several emergency ordinances, including the adoption of a new Planning and Zoning Code that repeals the 1962 code. Other items include a cybersecurity program, the purchase of a road rescue squad, the sale of a parcel next to Infinity Corporate Centre Drive, and an extension of the moratorium on smoke and vape establishments. A resolution will also adopt the results of the 2025 Transit‑Oriented Development Study.

• Ordinance 87-2025: Adoption of a new Planning and Zoning Code, repealing the existing code
• Ordinance 93-2025: Adoption of a cybersecurity program under Ohio Revised Code 9.64 (emergency)
• Ordinance 94-2025: Authorization for the mayor to purchase one road rescue squad from Penn Care, Inc. (emergency)
• Ordinance 95-2025: Sale of real property adjacent to Infinity Corporate Centre Drive, Parcel No. 542-40-003 (emergency)
• Ordinance 96-2025: Extension of the moratorium on licenses for smoke and vape establishments (emergency)

The council unanimously approved the disposal of the November 10 minutes. Council members voted 7‑0 to postpone the third reading of Ordinance 87‑2025. The cybersecurity program ordinance (93‑2025) was adopted with a 7‑0 vote. Motions to suspend the three‑reading rule and to waive Rule 24 also passed unanimously.

• Disposed November 10, 2025 minutes (7‑0)
• Postponed third reading of Ordinance 87‑2025 to Dec 8 2025 (7‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance 93‑2025 cybersecurity program (7‑0)
• Suspended three‑reading rule for Ordinance 93‑2025 (7‑0)
• Waived Rule 24 for Ordinance 93‑2025 (7‑0)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Planning Commission will review a request from Siddharth D. Patel for the construction of a new single-story speculative retail building. The proposed project includes three suites and 23 parking spaces.

• Plan approval for a new masonry retail building at 5657 Turney Road
• Proposed building features three suites (two 1122 SF and one 2290 SF)
• Installation of 23 parking spaces, including one van/HC accessible space
• Planting of Arbor Vieta trees adjacent to the residential zone

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Planning Commission will review a request to appear regarding a project at 5657 Turney Road. The proposal involves a retail building with three suites and 23 parking spaces.

• Project review for 5657 Turney Road (PPN: 54526095)
• Proposed retail building with three suites (two 1122 SF and one 2290 SF)
• Plan for 23 parking spaces, including one van/HC accessible space
• Installation of planters and arbor vitae trees per city request

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

City Council will hold a regular meeting to discuss the adoption of a modern Planning and Zoning Code to replace the 1962 version. The body is also considering several ordinances related to infrastructure, equipment leases, and property disposal.

• Ordinance 87-2025: Adoption of a new Planning and Zoning Code and repeal of the existing code
• Ordinance 89-2025: 60-month lease of a postage machine from Quadient Leasing USA, Inc. for $10,477.80
• Ordinance 90-2025: Consent to Cuyahoga County improvements to rehabilitate McCracken Road Bridge 01.36 over Mill Creek
• Ordinance 91-2025: Sale and disposal of municipally owned property no longer needed
• Ordinance 92-2025: Participation in the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District program for the Thornhurst Avenue Sewer Separation Project

The council elected Avery Johnson as President (5‑2) and Rachelle Tonsing as Pro Tem (5‑2). Lottie Overby was appointed Clerk of Council (7‑0) and the October 27 minutes were disposed of (7‑0). Ordinance 87‑2025, adopting a new planning and zoning code, passed on the third reading (7‑0). Ordinance 89‑2025, authorizing a postage‑machine lease, also passed (7‑0) after suspending the three‑readings rule and waiving Rule 24.

• Avery Johnson elected Council President (5‑2)
• Rachelle Tonsing elected Council Pro Tem (5‑2)
• Lottie Overby appointed Clerk of Council (7‑0)
• October 27, 2025 minutes disposed (7‑0)
• Ordinance 87‑2025 (new zoning code) adopted (7‑0)
• Ordinance 89‑2025 (postage‑machine lease) adopted (7‑0)
• Motion to suspend three‑readings rule for Ordinance 89‑2025 passed (7‑0)
• Motion to waive Rule 24 for Ordinance 89‑2025 passed (7‑0)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Garfield Heights Planning Commission will meet on November 5, 2025, to consider two development proposals: a 3,696-square-foot industrial addition and a 888,000-square-foot Cuyahoga County jail campus.

• Royal Companies seeks approval for a 3,696 SF addition to a landscape storage building at 7801 Old Granger Road
• Cuyahoga County requests approval for an 888,000 SF, 3-story jail campus at 5400-5410 Transportation Boulevard
• Cuyahoga County project includes a Sheriff's Administration tower, Behavioral Care Center, and LEED Silver certification goal
• Public comments can be submitted via written request to the Building Department at least 14 days prior to the meeting

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The commission will review a request from Royal Companies to add a 3,696‑square‑foot industrial building at 7801 Old Granger Road (U‑11B zone, Ward 3). It will also review Cuyahoga County’s proposal for an approximately 888,000‑square‑foot, three‑story, 1,886‑bed jail and service campus at 5400‑5410 Transportation Boulevard (U‑4 zone, Ward 5). Both items are scheduled for decision at the November 5, 2025 meeting.

• Addition of ~3,696 SF prefabricated storage building at 7801 Old Granger Road, zoning U‑11B Industrial Park, Ward 3 (Royal Companies, represented by Vocon).
• Construction of ~888,000 SF, three‑story, 1,886‑bed jail and service campus at 5400‑5410 Transportation Boulevard, zoning U‑4, Ward 5 (Cuyahoga County, represented by PMC).
• Project includes overhead doors, sheriff’s administration tower, behavioral care center, parking, and renovation of an existing building for a training center; aims for LEED Silver certification.

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

City Council is considering a new planning and zoning code and several grant applications for safety equipment and home repairs. The body is also reviewing a resolution to accept $250,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds.

• Ordinance 87-2025: Adoption of a new planning and zoning code
• Resolution 38-2025: Application for $250,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds
• Ordinance 88-2025: Application for Community Development Supplemental Grant funds for a home repair program
• Ordinance 86-2025: Application for Bureau of Workers’ Compensation Safety Intervention Grant for safety equipment
• Resolution 37-2025: Resolution honoring Coach Darrell Copeland

The council adopted Resolution 37‑2025 honoring Coach Darrell Copeland with a 7‑0 vote. It also approved Ordinance 86‑2025 authorizing the Bureau of Workers Compensation Safety Intervention Grant, also 7‑0. The council suspended the three‑reading rule and waived Rule 24 for that ordinance, each by 7‑0. Ordinance 87‑2025, a new planning and zoning code, was moved to a second reading with a 7‑0 vote.

• Approved Resolution 37‑2025 honoring Coach Darrell Copeland (7‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 86‑2025 to apply for and accept Workers Compensation Safety Intervention Grant (7‑0)
• Suspended three‑reading rule for Ordinance 86‑2025 (7‑0)
• Waived Rule 24 for Ordinance 86‑2025 (7‑0)
• Moved Ordinance 87‑2025 (new planning and zoning code) to second reading (7‑0)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Garfield Heights Planning Commission meeting on October 15, 2025 will review several zoning applications. Applicants include 1355 McCracken Rd seeking continued U-11B Industrial Park zoning (Ward 2); 9790 Midwest Ave requesting U-11B Industrial Park zoning for a self‑storage development (Ward 4); 13105 Littleton Rd requesting a group home in U1 Single‑Family zoning (Ward 7); and 13213 Broadway Ave proposing consolidation of multiple parcels into two parcels, also zoned U-11B Industrial Park (Ward 1). The agenda also lists meeting fee schedules of $75 for residential and $150 for commercial appearances.

• Zoning request for 1355 McCracken Rd: U-11B Industrial Park (Ward 2)
• Zoning request for 9790 Midwest Ave: U-11B Industrial Park for self‑storage (Ward 4)
• Zoning request for 13105 Littleton Rd: U1 Single‑Family for a group home (Ward 7)
• Parcel consolidation request for 13213 Broadway Ave into Parcel A and Parcel B, zoned U-11B Industrial Park (Ward 1)
• Meeting fee schedule: Residential $75, Commercial $150

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider an appeal by Michelle Marie Hicks regarding a code violation (CO 1311.192) that allegedly discharges water onto a neighbor's yard. The property at 12604 Maple Leaf Drive is zoned U-1 (single‑family use). The appeal was tabled from the September 17, 2025 meeting.

• Appeal of code violation CO 1311.192 for water discharge at 12604 Maple Leaf Drive (U-1 zoning)
• Reference to Ordinance 54-2024, passed August 12, 2024, requiring drainage correction

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

The Garfield Heights City Council will consider and vote on Ordinances 81‑2025 through 85‑2025 and Resolution 36‑2025, each declared emergencies. The items include applying for Ohio grant funding for safety purchases, adopting an ADA grievance policy, authorizing a sewer‑separation project on Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, amending current appropriations, and accepting a fire‑department fact‑finding report. The resolution would authorize the mayor to join the National Association of State Procurement Officials for cooperative purchasing.

• Ordinance 81‑2025 – authorizes the mayor to apply for and accept Ohio grant funding for safety items
• Ordinance 82‑2025 – adopts an ADA grievance policy and designates an ADA coordinator
• Ordinance 83‑2025 – directs the mayor to contract with OHM Advisors for the Martin Luther King Jr Blvd sewer separation project
• Ordinance 84‑2025 – amends appropriations for current expenditures for FY ending Dec 31 2025
• Resolution 36‑2025 – authorizes the mayor to join the National Association of State Procurement Officials

The council disposed of the September 22 minutes. It then approved Ordinances 81‑2025, 82‑2025, 83‑2025, 84‑2025, and 85‑2025, each with a 7‑yes to 0‑no vote. All ordinances were adopted after motions to suspend the three‑reading rule and waive rule 24 were approved.

• Disposed of September 22 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved Ordinance 81‑2025 authorizing grant funding for safety items (7 Yes‑0 No)
• Approved Ordinance 82‑2025 adopting an ADA grievance policy (7 Yes‑0 No)
• Approved Ordinance 83‑2025 authorizing sewer separation project on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd (7 Yes‑0 No)
• Approved Ordinance 84‑2025 amending appropriations for FY 2025 expenditures (7 Yes‑0 No)
• Approved Ordinance 85‑2025 accepting fire department fact‑finding report (7 Yes‑0 No)
• Suspended three‑reading rule for each ordinance (7 Yes‑0 No)
• Waived rule 24 for each ordinance (7 Yes‑0 No)

Committee & Board Meeting Agendas

The Board of Control will consider the bids received for the MLK Jr. Blvd Sewer Separation project. The engineer’s estimate for the base bid is $3,136,474.00, while the lowest base bid is $2,907,877.50 from Tri Mor Corporation. The agenda also includes two bid alternates and an analysis showing Tri Mor remains the low bidder.

• Engineer’s base bid estimate: $3,136,474.00; lowest base bid: $2,907,877.50 (Tri Mor Corp.)
• Bid Alternate #1 estimate: $261,940.00; lowest alternate #1 bid: $213,700.00 (Fabrizi Trucking & Paving Co.)
• Bid Alternate #2 estimate: $232,200.00; lowest alternate #2 bid: $216,630.00 (Great Lakes Crushing Ltd.)
• Great Lakes Crushing Ltd. did not complete page 29 of the DBE subcontractor utilization form
• References cite Tri Mor work on projects in Twinsburg Township and Reminderville

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Garfield Heights Planning Commission will meet on October 1, 2025, to consider four requests: a Conditional Use Permit for a senior living home, a change of use for a former Pizza Hut to medical offices, a land consolidation, and a proposed affordable housing development.

• Conditional Use Permit for Family Home for Older Adults at 8300 Garfield Blvd
• Change of use for former Pizza Hut at 4666 Turney Road to Medical Offices
• Land consolidation of two parcels at 4812 E 88th Street
• Proposed affordable housing development at 12555 Rockside Rd
• Meeting at 5407 Turney Road, Room Council Chamber

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review a variance request for the property at 8300 Garfield Blvd. The applicant, Telemind Primary Health and Wellness, represented by Natajlia Benn, seeks to change the U‑2 zoned parcel to a Family Home for Older Adults serving up to six residents. The board will vote on the request at the October 1, 2025 meeting in the Council Chambers at 5407 Turney Road.

• Variance request to use 8300 Garfield Blvd (U‑2 zone) as a Family Home for Older Adults, max 6 residents
• Applicant: Telemind Primary Health and Wellness; Owner: Natajlia Benn
• Residential meeting fee: $75.00
• Meeting scheduled for October 1, 2025, 7:30 p.m. at Council Chambers, 5407 Turney Road
• Required 10 complete sets of documentation submitted at least 14 days before the meeting

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

At the September 22 meeting the Garfield Heights City Council will adopt a new Council Member Handbook and declare it an emergency ordinance. The council will also authorize the mayor to contract with Ohm Advisors for pavement condition ratings and to purchase a 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe for the police fleet. Additional resolutions will amend deposit contract eligibility and accept the budget‑commission tax levy rates, both declared emergencies.

• Ordinance 78-2025: Approve the Garfield Heights City Council Member Handbook (emergency)
• Ordinance 79-2025: Authorize the mayor to contract with Ohm Advisors for pavement condition ratings (emergency)
• Ordinance 80-2025: Authorize purchase of one 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe from Preston Chevrolet Kia for the police fleet (emergency)
• Resolution 32-2025: Amend Resolution 40-2021 to add Argent Financial as an eligible institution for interim deposit contracts (emergency)
• Resolution 34-2025: Accept budget commission‑determined tax levy amounts and rates, authorizing necessary levies (emergency)

The council voted 7-0 to accept and dispose of the September 8, 2025 meeting minutes. No other motions were decided; the meeting featured presentations on a community closet and a county disability services program, but no votes were taken on those items.

• Approved disposal of September 8, 2025 minutes (7-0)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hear Case 2025-05, an appeal by Michelle Marie Hicks concerning a violation of Ordinance 1311.192 that alleges water is being discharged onto a neighbor’s yard at 12604 Mapleleaf Drive. The board will decide whether to uphold the violation order and require the property to be brought into compliance. The parcel is zoned U‑1 Single Family Use in Ward 7.

• Appeal of code violation (Ordinance 1311.192) for water discharge at 12604 Mapleleaf Drive
• Violation notice requires abatement by 09/09/2025
• Right to appeal must be filed within 15 days of notice
• Board hearing scheduled for September 17, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in Council Chambers, 5407 Turney Road
• Parcel zoned U‑1 Single Family Use, Ward 7

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The commission will review a proposal to develop an affordable housing community at 12555 Rockside Rd, using the Low‑Income Housing Tax Credit program. It will also consider a Conditional Use Permit for 8300 Garfield Blvd to operate a family home for older adults. A change‑of‑use request to convert the former Pizza Hut at 4666 Turney Road into medical offices will be discussed. A land‑consolidation request for parcels at 4812 E 88 Street (PPN 541‑15‑017 and 541‑15‑018) will be considered.

• Affordable housing development at 12555 Rockside Rd (LIHTC program)
• Conditional Use Permit for 8300 Garfield Blvd – Family Home for Older Adults
• Change of use for 4666 Turney Road – Pizza Hut to Medical Offices
• Land consolidation for 4812 E 88 Street (PPN 541‑15‑017 & 541‑15‑018)

Committee & Board Meeting Agendas

The Garfield Heights City Council will hold a work session on September 11, 2025 at 7:00 pm. Council members will review the City Council Handbook. They will also discuss policies for public speaking at regular council meetings. No decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Review of the City Council Handbook
• Discussion of public‑speaking guidelines for regular council meetings

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

The Garfield Heights City Council will decide on several ordinances, including the purchase of a police vehicle and approval of sewer separation projects. The meeting also includes routine procedural items and recognitions.

• Purchase one 2025 Chevy Tahoe for Garfield Heights Police Department ($55,000 max)
• Approve Maplerow & East 126th Sewer Separation Project plans and competitive bids ($274,500 max)
• Approve I-480 Sanitary Sewer Crossing Project plans and competitive bids (funding via NEORSD MCIP)
• Adopt current replacement pages for codified ordinances to comply with state law
• Honor Arts Reaching Kids (ARK) and recognize September as Suicide Prevention Month

The council approved the August 11, 2025 meeting minutes (7‑0) and moved Resolution 30‑2025 to the front of the agenda (7‑0). It adopted Resolution 32‑2025 honoring local arts programs (7‑0) and passed Ordinance 72‑2025 authorizing the purchase of a 2025 Chevy Tahoe for the police department (7‑0). Members also voted to suspend the three‑reading rule and to waive Rule 24, each by a 7‑0 vote.

• Approved August 11, 2025 meeting minutes (7‑0)
• Moved Resolution 30‑2025 to front of meeting (7‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 32‑2025 honoring arts programs (7‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance 72‑2025 authorizing purchase of a 2025 Chevy Tahoe for police (7‑0)
• Suspended the three‑reading rule (7‑0)
• Waived Rule 24 (7‑0)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Garfield Heights Planning Commission will meet on September 3, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers to review four development proposals. Items include a solar farm/data center proposal, lot consolidations for new buildings, a county service campus project, and interior renovations for a recreational facility. All proposals are located in U-11B Industrial Park or U-4 Retail & Service zoning districts.

• Solar farm/data center at 10500 Antenucci Blvd (PPN: 542-40-003) with EPA remediation plans
• Lot consolidation for new building at 13406-13512 McCracken (PPN: 545-11-033 to 545-11-048)
• Consolidation of two county parcels for Central Service Campus at 5400-5410 Transportation Blvd (PPN: 542-22-023-024)
• Interior renovations for Padel Square recreational facility at 5708 Transportation Blvd (PPN: 543-06-001) with conditional use variance request

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

The Garfield Heights City Council will meet on August 11, 2025, to vote on five ordinances, including a $1.47M multi-street reconstruction and waterline replacement project funded by the Ohio Public Works Commission, a new three-year police union contract, and purchases like a 2025 Chevy Tahoe for the police department. The meeting also includes routine procedural items and public comment periods.

• Multi-Street Reconstruction & Waterline Replacement – Phase 8 project funded by Ohio Public Works Commission for $1,465,950
• Approval of a three-year collective bargaining agreement with the Ohio Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association
• Purchase of one 2025 Chevy Tahoe from Preston Chevrolet Kia for the police department fleet
• Amendment to Chapter 1519 of the city’s fireworks ordinances
• Levy of special assessments for garbage collection and lot maintenance

Councilwoman Collier moved to dispose of the regular council meeting minutes from July 14, 2025. Councilman Kelley seconded the motion. The council voted unanimously, 7 Yes to 0 No, and approved the disposal.

• Approved disposal of July 14, 2025 council minutes (7-0)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Planning Commission will consider four applications for building renovations and new construction. The requests include a self-storage facility, a retail structure, and two residential care homes.

• Exterior and interior renovations for a self-storage facility at 12501 Rockside Road
• New construction of a retail structure for 3 tenants at 5641 Turney Road
• Request for a residential assisted living/family home at 5726 Turney Road
• Request for a residential care facility/family home at 5373 E. 132nd

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

City Council is considering a 180-day moratorium on licenses and permits for new bars and taverns. The meeting also includes proposals for police salary updates and several infrastructure projects.

• Ordinance 53-2025: 180-day moratorium on new bars, taverns, and alcohol-oriented establishments
• Amended Ordinance 46-2025: Police salary updates, including $138,543 for Chief and $125,106 for Captains
• Ordinance 56-2025: Extension of moratorium on adult-use cannabis establishments for up to 6 months
• Ordinance 60-2025: Engineering services for McCracken Road Repairs Phase 2
• Resolution 29-2025: Adoption of the city tax budget for fiscal year beginning January 1, 2025

The Garfield Heights City Council unanimously approved 14 ordinances and 4 resolutions, including a moratorium on new bars, an extension of the cannabis moratorium, police salary updates, and several street and sewer projects. They also approved resolutions opposing House Bill 335 and applying for CDBG funds. The meeting ended with an executive session on employee matters.

• Approved Amended Ordinance 46-2025 updating police salaries (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance 53-2025 imposing moratorium on new bars/taverns (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance 56-2025 extending cannabis moratorium 6 months (5-0)
• Approved Ordinances 57-61-2025 for street/sewer projects (5-0 each)
• Approved Ordinance 64-2025 authorizing sale of surplus city property (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 26-2025 urging release of cannabis excise tax funds (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 27-2025 opposing House Bill 335 (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 28-2025 applying for CDBG funds (5-0)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Planning Commission will meet to consider a request from 5637 Turney PM LLC. The applicant is seeking approval for alterations to the exterior facades of the property.

• Request for exterior facade alterations at 5637 Turney Road (PPN: 545-26-023)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider two cases regarding properties on Turney Road. One involves requests for three zoning variances for a new retail building, and the other is a proposal for an indoor storage facility.

• Case 2025-03: Request for three variances at 5641 Turney Road for a new retail building with 3 tenant units
• Case 2025-04: Proposal for an indoor storage facility at 4790 Turney Road in the former Save-A Lot grocery store

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

City Council is deciding on a collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME Local 2729 and Council 8. The body is also considering the purchase of a new truck and dump body for the Service Department and a contract for grant consulting services.

• Collective bargaining agreement with Local 2729 and Council 8 AFSCME (Jan 1, 2025 – Dec 31, 2027)
• Purchase of one 2024 Mack MD742 truck from M&K Truck Centers not to exceed $90,000.00
• Purchase of one Henderson Mark E Dump Body and chassis not to exceed $68,000.00
• Agreement with Millennium Strategies, LLC for grant consulting services
• Funding for seven residential roof replacements via the Home Repair Assistance Grant Program

The council disposed of the May 12 and May 27 meeting minutes without opposition. No written communications or committee reports were presented. Four ordinances were adopted—two authorizing emergency purchases of a truck and a dump body/chassis, one approving a collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME, and one entering a grant‑consulting agreement with Millennium Strategies—each passing 7‑0 after waiving the three‑reading rule and Rule 24.

• Disposed of May 12, 2025 regular meeting minutes (7‑0)
• Disposed of May 27, 2025 special meeting minutes (7‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance 49‑2025 to purchase a new 2024 Mack truck (7‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance 50‑2025 to purchase a Henderson dump body and chassis (7‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance 51‑2025 approving a collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME (7‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance 52‑2025 entering an agreement with Millennium Strategies for grant consulting (7‑0)
• Waived the three‑reading rule for each ordinance (7‑0 each)
• Waived Rule 24 for each ordinance (7‑0 each)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Planning Commission will consider a request from Lloyd Gage & Tool Company for exterior modifications to a building at 5265 Transportation Blvd. The proposal includes painting, signage updates, and window replacements.

• Request to paint brown brick building white
• Request to paint window and door panels and trim black
• Installation of a new company logo to replace the existing one
• Addition of address numbers (5265) to the south side of the building
• Replacement of eight windows on the south side of the building

Committee & Board Meeting Agendas

The Legislation Committee will meet to discuss three proposed measures. These include a new ordinance regarding drug-related offenses and two zoning moratoriums for Ward 1.

• Proposed Ordinance: Revocation of Business Licenses & Property Forfeiture for Drug-Related Offenses
• Proposed Zoning Moratorium: Weapons-Oriented Uses in Ward 1
• Proposed Moratorium: Sexually Oriented Businesses in Ward 1

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

The council will consider two ordinances authorizing the mayor to apply for Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District grant funding for two sewer projects: the Maplerow and East 126th Street sewer separation project and the I-480 sanitary sewer crossing project. Also on the agenda are ordinances approving collective bargaining agreements with the Fraternal Order of Police for jailers, records clerks, and dispatchers, and resolutions to apply for an EMS training grant and adopt the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste Management Plan.

• Ordinance 42-2025: Authorize application for NEORSD grant for Maplerow and East 126th Sewer Separation Project
• Ordinance 43-2025: Authorize application for NEORSD grant for I-480 Sanitary Sewer Crossing Project
• Ordinance 44-2025: Approve collective bargaining agreement with FOP for Jailers, Jail Commander, and Records Clerk (2025-2027)
• Ordinance 45-2025: Approve collective bargaining agreement with FOP for Safety Dispatchers
• Resolution 21-2025: Apply for and accept training and equipment grant from Ohio Department of Public Safety – Division of Emergency Medical Services

The council confirmed a quorum and moved to dispose of the regular council minutes from April 28, 2025. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously with seven votes in favor and none against. No committee reports were presented, and the council recognized several staff members, but no further actions were voted on.

• Disposed April 28, 2025 regular council minutes – approved (7‑yes, 0‑no)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Garfield Heights Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request by Natasha Wiley to approve a residential group home for seniors at 13416 Grannis Road. The property is zoned U-1 Single Family Use in Ward 7. The home would operate through the Ohio Department of Health. This is the only item on the May 7, 2025 agenda.

• Request for approval of a residential group home for seniors at 13416 Grannis Road (PPN 543-25-028) in Ward 7

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

City Council will discuss several ordinances including planning services for a new police station and the purchase of a precast concrete restroom. The body is also reviewing a collective bargaining agreement for police sergeants and above and a home repair grant program.

• Agreement with ThenDesign Architecture for police station planning not to exceed $20,000
• Funding application for a medium duty truck not to exceed $200,000 via Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District
• Purchase of 4,500 tons of rock salt for the 2025-2026 season via ODOT
• Purchase and installation of a Cortez precast concrete restroom at Frank J. Debelak Recreation Area
• Collective bargaining agreement for Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 67 (Sergeants and Above)

The council adopted Ordinance 36‑2025, authorizing the purchase of sodium chloride (rock salt) for the 2025‑26 season, and waived the three‑reading rule and Rule 24 for it. The council also adopted Ordinance 37‑2025, revising the codified ordinances under the city charter, and waived the three‑reading rule for that ordinance. Both ordinances passed with a 7‑yes to 0‑no vote.

• Ordinance 36‑2025 adopted (7‑yes, 0‑no)
• Waiver of three‑reading rule for Ordinance 36‑2025 passed (7‑yes, 0‑no)
• Waiver of Rule 24 for Ordinance 36‑2025 passed (7‑yes, 0‑no)
• Ordinance 37‑2025 adopted (7‑yes, 0‑no)
• Waiver of three‑reading rule for Ordinance 37‑2025 passed (7‑yes, 0‑no)
• Waiver of Rule 24 for Ordinance 37‑2025 passed (7‑yes, 0‑no)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Garfield Heights Planning Commission will hold a single-item meeting on April 15, 2025. The applicant, represented by The Umbrella House, requests approval for a Family Home at 11406 Granger Road, currently zoned U-1 Single Family Use in Ward 5. The commission will decide on this request.

• Request for Family Home approval at 11406 Granger Road (PPN 545-14-026) in Ward 5

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

Garfield Heights City Council will discuss several ordinances involving municipal infrastructure and equipment. Key items include the issuance of notes for road improvements and the purchase of new ambulances.

• Issuance of up to $2,000,000 in notes for improving Granger Road and other city streets
• Issuance of up to $1,600,000 in notes for general street and road resurfacing and improvements
• Issuance of up to $450,000 in notes to acquire an ambulance and equipment for the Fire Department
• Agreement with TTx, Inc for Microsoft 365 migration at a one-time cost of $19,576 and annual fee of $35,532.24
• Agreement with Penn Care Inc. for the purchase of two new ambulances

The council voted 7‑0 to accept the March 24 caucus meeting minutes. Council members were assigned to introduce Ordinances 25‑2025 through 35‑2025 as listed in the agenda. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous 7‑0 vote.

• Approved March 24 caucus meeting minutes (7-0)
• Assigned Councilman Kelley to introduce Ordinance 25-2025
• Assigned Councilwoman Newrones to introduce Ordinance 26-2025
• Assigned Councilwoman Tonsing to introduce Ordinance 27-2025
• Assigned Councilman Smith to introduce Ordinance 28-2025
• Assigned Councilman Kelley to introduce Ordinance 29-2025
• Assigned Councilwoman Tonsing to introduce Ordinance 30-2025
• Adjourned the meeting (7-0)

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

The Garfield Heights City Council will consider three ordinances and a resolution at its March 24 regular meeting. The most notable items include a $64.9 million appropriations amendment for the 2025 fiscal year, an extension of the moratorium on new smoke and vape shops, and authorization to join the Ohio Ambulance Supplemental Payment Program to increase Medicaid funding for EMS. A resolution honors a childcare advocate for Women's History Month.

• Ordinance 23-2025: $64,867,045.36 in appropriations for FY2025, including a $20,949,846.80 General Fund and allocations across 34 funds
• Ordinance 21-2025: extends the six-month moratorium on licenses and permits for smoke and vape establishments (expiring April 28, 2025) by another six months
• Ordinance 22-2025: authorizes a contract with Public Consulting Group to participate in the Ohio Ambulance Supplemental Payment Program, deadline April 1, 2025
• Ordinance 24-2025: authorizes an agreement with the Public Entities Pool of Ohio for general liability and property insurance
• Resolution 16-2025: honoring Auliya Lovas for her dedication to childcare and community contributions during Women's History Month

Committee & Board Meeting Agendas

The Board of Control will open and discuss proposals for the renewal of comprehensive liability insurance and cyber security coverage. No other items are on the agenda for this meeting.

• Discussion of bids for Comprehensive Liability Insurance Renewal and Cyber Security

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Planning Commission will meet to review a request from property owner Charles E. King. The applicant proposes creating two residential parcels from the City Land Bank using the City Side Lot Program.

• Request to create two residential parcels at 13900 Cooper Ct. (PPN: 546-12-016)
• Utilization of the City Side Lot Program for PPN 546-12-023
• Review of U-1 zoning for parcels in Ward 1

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

City Council will vote on ordinances and resolutions including a $40,000 contract with OHM Advisors for engineering review and construction services, the sale of a 1998 fire pumper and equipment via online auction, and acceptance of a $4,267 recycling awareness grant. Also up for action are appointments, a violent crime reduction grant application, a public records policy update, and a resolution supporting relocation of the municipal court.

• Ordinance 18-2025: Contract with OHM Advisors for engineering services, March 2025–Dec 2026, not to exceed $40,000
• Ordinance 19-2025: Authorizes sale of 1998 Sutphen Fire Pumper and equipment on GovDeals auction site
• Ordinance 20-2025: Accepts $4,267 Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District Recycling Awareness Grant
• Resolution 13-2025: Authorizes application for Ohio Violent Crime Reduction Grant Program
• Resolution 15-2025: Supports relocation of Garfield Heights Municipal Court to Newburgh Heights

Council passed all six pieces of legislation on the agenda, including a resolution supporting the relocation of the Garfield Heights Municipal Court to Newburgh Heights. Also approved were agreements for engineering services, property disposal, grant acceptance, a recreation board appointment, a crime reduction grant application, and directing cannabis funds to the general fund. A resident's complaint about late agenda postings was addressed by staff, who committed to resolving the issue.

• Approved resolution supporting relocation of Municipal Court to Newburgh Heights (6-0)
• Approved engineering services agreement with OHM Advisors (6-0)
• Approved disposal of municipally owned property (6-0)
• Accepted Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District recycling grant (6-0)
• Ratified Steven Settle to Recreation Board (6-0)
• Authorized application for Violent Crime Reduction Grant (6-0)
• Directed cannabis funds to general fund per state auditor recommendation (6-0)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Planning Commission is meeting to review two applications. One involves a preliminary plan for multiple parcels on McCracken Road to facilitate a property purchase, and the other is a request for a family home on East 129th Street.

• Preliminary plan approval for 13406, 13500, 13506, and 13512 McCracken Road (JCorp, LLC)
• Application for a family home at 5395 East 129th Street (Homes for Homeless)

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

The City Council is reviewing an ordinance to update the classification and compensation plan for non-union positions, including new housing enforcement roles. The body is also considering a three-year contract extension for citywide refuse and recycling services.

• Ordinance 85-2024: Updates non-union pay ranges and adds two Housing Enforcement Coordinators (est. $150,000)
• Ordinance 17-2025: Proposed 3-year contract extension with Kimble Recycling and Disposal, Inc.
• Ordinance 14-2025: Agreement with Timeclock Plus, LLC for a municipal court timeclock system not to exceed $12,000
• Ordinance 16-2025: Earmarking ARPA funds for the City of Garfield Heights Home Repair Grant Program
• Resolution 08-2025: Ratifying the appointment of Kendra Chatburn to the Board of Zoning Appeals

Council unanimously approved several ordinances and resolutions, including a non-union pay ordinance, a clerk of council salary increase (amended to $16,000), earmarking ARPA funds for a home repair grant program, and extending the Kimball Recycling contract for three years. All votes were 7-0, with two abstentions on appointments.

• Approved non-union pay ordinance 85-2024 (7-0)
• Approved municipal court time clock system with Time Lock Plus LLC (7-0)
• Approved clerk of council salary increase to $16,000 (7-0)
• Approved ARPA funds earmark for home repair grant program (7-0)
• Approved 3-year extension of Kimball Recycling and Disposal contract (7-0)
• Approved resolution supporting federal tax exemption for municipal bonds (7-0)
• Approved NOPEC community grant application (7-0)
• Approved appointments to zoning appeals and recreation boards (6-0, 1 abstention each)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Garfield Heights Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request from JCorp, LLC for approval of a preliminary plan for multiple parcels at 13406-13512 McCracken Road. The zoning is U-11B and the applicant states the approval is needed to complete the purchase of the property.

• Applicant JCorp, LLC requests approval of a preliminary plan for parcels at 13406, 13500, 13506, and 13512 McCracken Road (multiple PPNs) in Ward 2, currently zoned U-11B.

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Garfield Heights Planning Commission will consider two requests at its March 6, 2025 meeting. One applicant seeks approval of a preliminary plan for multiple parcels on McCracken Road to complete a property purchase. Another request is for a family home at 5395 East 129th Street.

• Preliminary plan request for parcels at 13406, 13500, 13506, 13512 McCracken Road (PPNs 545-11-033 through 045) by JCorp LLC, zoned U-11B
• Request for approval of a family home at 5395 East 129th Street (PPN 545-17-071) by Homes for Homeless, zoned U-1 single family

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

The agenda includes only a fiscal officer's certification for Ordinance 09-2025, confirming that $32,000 from the General Fund is lawfully appropriated. This is a procedural step required before the ordinance can be enacted.

• Certification of $32,000 from the General Fund for Ordinance 09-2025

The council unanimously approved five ordinances and one resolution. These include agreements for cleaning services, a food pantry partnership, a road reconstruction project, a dark fiber network lease, and a tax levy amendment, plus a resolution recognizing Black History Month. The meeting also featured a detailed report from Judge Nicastro about the deteriorating municipal courthouse, but no decision was made on that issue.

• Approved Ordinance 09-2025, continuing cleaning services agreement with Anago Cleaning Systems (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 10-2025, agreement with Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland for senior center pantry foods (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 11-2025, authorizing plans and bids for Thornhurst Avenue reconstruction (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 12-2025, lease of dark fiber network with Breeze Line (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 13-2025, amending tax levy and disbursement sections (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 05-2025, recognizing February as Black History Month (7-0)

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a request from PetFix Northeast Ohio, Inc. for a similar use variance at 13315 Broadway Avenue. The property is zoned U-11B Industrial Park. PetFix, a nonprofit, proposes to open a second low-cost spay/neuter and vaccine clinic to serve the underserved southeast Cuyahoga County area.

• Case 2025-02: Similar use variance for 13315 Broadway Ave. (PPN 546-14-001)
• Applicant: PetFix Northeast Ohio, Inc., represented by Executive Director Christie Lucco
• Property owner: New R.E. Holdings, LLC (North Royalton, OH)
• Current zoning: U-11B Industrial Park, Ward 1
• PetFix operates a clinic in Euclid and seeks to expand to Garfield Heights with affordable pet surgeries ($45–$105) and subsidized fees

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

The Garfield Heights City Council is meeting to consider an ordinance that would place a charter amendment on the May 6, 2025 ballot, asking voters if the Planning and Zoning Code should govern land use changes and zoning map amendments. The council will also vote on resolutions to apply for funding for community events and a recycling awareness grant. The agenda includes standard items like minutes, committee reports, and citizen comments.

• Ordinance 08-2025: Submit charter amendment to voters on May 6, 2025, to let Planning and Zoning Code govern land use changes
• Resolution 03-2025: Apply for Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council sponsorship funding for 2025 community events
• Resolution 04-2025: Apply for Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District 2025 Community Recycling Awareness Grant

Planning / Zoning Agendas

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on January 15, 2025, for Case 2025-01. The applicant, Timothy L. Miller, requests approval for a similar use as an outdoor dog training facility at 4805 Orchard Road. The parcel is zoned U-11B Industrial Park in Ward 1.

• Case 2025-01: outdoor dog training facility at 4805 Orchard Road (PPN: 546-19-070), applicant Timothy L. Miller

City Council Agendas / Approved Minutes

City Council is reviewing several ordinances to authorize 2025 procurement and service contracts. The meeting includes a proposal to extend a moratorium on adult-use cannabis licenses and a contract for engineering services.

• Ordinance 05-2025: Extend moratorium on adult-use cannabis licenses, permits, and certificates for up to 6 months
• Ordinance 03-2025: Agreement with OHM Advisors for engineering services from 2025 through 2027
• Ordinance 07-2025: Purchase of snow and ice control equipment, spreader, and auger from Henderson Products, Inc.
• Ordinance 01-2025: Authorization to advertise for proposals for materials and services exceeding $77,250.00
• Resolution 01-2025: Honoring Holy Spirit Catholic Church for 102 years of service

The Garfield Heights City Council unanimously passed seven ordinances and two resolutions at its January 13, 2025 meeting. The ordinances included authorizing purchases and contracts for 2025, renewing the storm water pollution program, extending the moratorium on adult-use cannabis sales, amending income tax disbursement, and purchasing snow and ice control equipment. The resolutions honored Holy Spirit Catholic Church and opposed AT&T's tariff application. All votes were 6-0.

• Approved ordinance to advertise for proposals for materials, services, and supplies for 2025 (6-0)
• Approved ordinance establishing maximum amount for blanket certificates for fiscal year 2025 (6-0)
• Approved contract with OHM Advisors for engineering services 2025-2027 (6-0)
• Approved renewal of agreement with Cuyahoga Soil and Water Conservation District for storm water pollution prevention (6-0)
• Approved six-month moratorium extension on adult-use cannabis licenses (6-0)
• Approved amendment to income tax disbursement ordinance (6-0)
• Approved purchase of snow and ice control equipment package from Henderson Products (6-0)
• Adopted resolution honoring Holy Spirit Catholic Church for 102 years of service (6-0)