Cleveland Heights · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Cleveland Heights public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
AI use in city government
Council wants to bring in an AI expert — possibly at the retreat — to train council and staff. Members discussed using Microsoft Copilot as a secure platform, policies for confidential vs. public records, and AI-searchable legislative history.
Anti-Semitism action plan
A resident asked the city to implement Resolution 120-2025 with deadlines: a social justice committee in 60 days, IHRA definition adoption in 90 days, 2027 budget funding for Jewish heritage programming, and a preservation plan for Taylor Road synagogue.
Liquor permit transfer for High Key on Lee
Four liquor permit applications or transfers were received for businesses on Mayfield, Lee, Warrensville Center, and Noble Roads, referred to the Mayor and Police Chief for review.
Overgrown vacant lots on Bainbridge
A resident said vacant lots behind Bainbridge Road homes haven't been mowed and her repeated MAC complaints went unanswered; the mayor promised follow-up.
Overnight parking shortage
Two residents flagged a parking crunch in multifamily neighborhoods north of Mayfield, with one saying he'd pay for an overnight street parking permit.
Use variance at 2536 Noble Road
A resolution memorializing council approval of a use variance for 2536 Noble Road, per BZA Cal. No. 3659A, was set for first reading.
Building Department Permit Volume
Building official Eric Elmi reported Cleveland Heights issues about 3,300 permits a year — more than Lakewood's 2,700 and double Beachwood and South Euclid. Council asked for historical trend data to help with budget planning.
Edwins liquor permit transfer
The state notified the city that Ungers Kosher Bakery's liquor permit is transferring to Ungers Ventures LLC at 1831 S. Taylor Rd.
ADP payroll conversion
The city switches to ADP payroll and timekeeping on July 24, 2026, after years of delay. Three parallel pay runs are planned, with staff training in June.
Board and commission website rosters
Several citizen boards don't list their members — or when their terms end — on the city website, making it hard for residents to know when to apply.
NOPEC energy grants and gas program
Council finalized accepting NOPEC community energy grants and an opt-in natural gas program for residents.
Revival of Community Improvement Awards Committee
A dormant committee that used to honor great home, landscaping, and storefront improvements could come back. Council Member Jim Posch wants it restarted to build civic pride, with an awards ceremony possibly as soon as September.
Town Halls and Neighborhood Meetings
Council planned to discuss holding town halls and neighborhood meetings, which would give residents more direct access to their elected officials.
Recreation Center lease of unoccupied room
A resolution to lease a spare room at the Recreation Center on Monticello Boulevard went to committee instead of getting a vote — details on the tenant and terms weren't hashed out yet.
Fire-damaged nuisance property on Randolph Road
Council declared the fire-damaged house at 3631 Randolph Road a nuisance and authorized cleanup.
Cain Park General Manager compensation
Council changed the pay grade for the Cain Park General Manager job, moving it to Salary Grade 19. The change took effect immediately because it was passed as an emergency measure.