Remember to Vote

w w w. i n d e p e n d e n c e o h i o . o r g
A
monthly publicAtion of the
city
of i ndependence
FEBRUARY 2011
A MessAge FroM our MAyor
IN THIS ISSUE
A Message from Our Mayor
1
City Directory
2
Inside City Hall
3
Senior Corner
4
Building Dept./Service Dept.
5
Recycling Sheet
6
Police Dept
7
Historically Speaking
8
Kiwanis Korner
8
City Council News
9
Zoning Board
15
Planning Commission
15
Community Calendar
16
Remember to
Vote
on Tuesday, February 8
Polls Open 6:30 a.m.
to 7:30 p.m.
Dear Resident,
On Tuesday, February 8, the Independence Local School District will ask
residents to adopt an Operating Levy that consists of two parts, a renewal of the
Gregory P. Kurtz, Mayor current Operating Levy, and an additional Operating Levy to provide for the
emergency requirements of the district.
My family descends from one of the oldest families in Independence and has a long history
of public service in our community. From an early age, we were taught to “leave Independence
better than we found it.” I understand the important role that a strong, vibrant public school
system plays in the strength and vitality of the entire community, so I asked that my name be
added as an “introducer” to the legislation concerning the levy, namely Resolution 2011-13 - A
Resolution supporting Issue 2 regarding the Independence Local School District’s proposed
operating and renewal levy and declaring an emergency, which was adopted by Council
unanimously at the January 11 Council meeting.
I fully recognize that these are difficult economic times for both families and the public
institutions that serve them. I also recognize the impact that this levy will have on future
generations and future leaders.
By the time this newsletter is delivered, hopefully voters will have been given answers to their
questions about why the funds are needed and how those funds will be spent, so they can make
an informed decision on this very important issue on the February 8 ballot. With this or any
subsequent ballot issue, it is important that voters understand why funds are needed and how
those funds will be spent.
On a second issue, you may have read the article that appeared in the Plain Dealer last month
regarding the automated rubbish pickup system the City implemented in November. The article
featured not only Independence, but a number of local Northeast Ohio municipalities that are
using automated trucks to pick up rubbish and/or recyclables.
A quote in that article from a Service Director in another Northeast Ohio municipality said it
all: “I honestly think that it’s the wave of the future. I think it’s only a matter of time before everybody’s
automated, or there’s a requirement that you do it.”
At the January Council Meeting, Service Director Snyderburn reported there already is
a 95% cooperation rate from the community in using the new City-provided containers
correctly. He thanked the community, as do I, for recognizing the benefits this system has
for both the City and our residents. Keep up the good work, and “Thank You” again!
February 21st is
Sincerely,
City Hall Closed
Gregory P. Kurtz
Mayor
Presidents’ Day
(Monday’s rubbish will be picked up
the following day.)
Home Days
Friday, August 5th & Saturday August 6th
It’s that time again…time to start planning for Home Days…and winter
isn’t even over yet! We are in the process of lining up our committees and
entertainment, as well as choosing the perfect theme to celebrate this year’s
94th Annual Home Days Celebration. Look to next month’s edition of the
Independence Post when we will reveal this year’s theme.
Home Day Booth applications will be available to local non-profit organizations beginning in March at City Hall, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.
to 5 p.m. If your local non-profit organization would like to receive more
information and/or an application form to participate this year, please call
Maggie at 524-4131.
Home Days
2011
Gregory P. Kurtz
YOUR CITY DIRECTORY
Mayor
[email protected]
John Nicastro Jr.
John M. Veres
Police Chief
Finance Director
[email protected]
Peter J. Nelson
Law Director
Ed Kostyack
Gregory J. O’Brien
Fire Chief
William T. Doyle
City Prosecutor
Deborah Nicastro &
Jennifer Weiler
Recreation Director
David Snyderburn
Service Director
Carl Opatrny
Building Commissioner
Judges of the Garfield
Heights Municipal Court
Angela T. Zeleznik
City Engineer
Tom Avsec
City Planner
Robert Williams
Human Resources Director
Natalie Buc
Community/Econ. Dev. Director
Kathleen Kapusta
Donald Ramm
Clerk of Courts
Jeff Markley
Purchasing Coordinator
Ron White
Community Services Director
Vernon Blaze
Coordinator of Senior Services
Finance Coordinator/Systems Analyst
2
CITY MEETINGS
Anthony Togliatti, Vice Mayor
Recorded Message of City’s
Scheduled Meetings
328-1477
Chair, Community Services
[email protected]
Phone: 328-9253
Carl Asseff
Chair, Economic Growth
& Development
[email protected]
Cell: 216-410-6911
Chair, Finance
[email protected]
Phone: 440-838-0833
Thomas Narduzzi
Chair, Public Lands & Buildings
[email protected]
Phone: 642-8559
FEBRUARY 2011 | A
524-4131
524-0088
447-0160
524-9191
524-4131
524-3711
524-1234
524-9614
524-3262
524-9191
524-3035
524-9200
Civil Service Commission
1st Thursday each month–7:00 p.m.
Chairman – Thomas Priebe
2nd Tuesday each month – 7:00 p.m.
Planning Commission
1st Tuesday each month – 7:00 p.m.
Chairman – Dale Lytkowski
Board of Zoning Appeals
3rd Thursday each month – 7:00 p.m.
Chairman – Mark Moreal
4th Tuesday, TBA, City Hall
Jim Riley
Meals on Wheels Program
Chair, Streets & Sidewalks
[email protected]
Phone: 328-1780
Community Services Department
Judy Kall 524-7373
Patricia Wisnieski
Chair, Safety/Rules & Ordinances
[email protected]
Phone: 524-8104
Susan Kurshuk
Clerk of Council
[email protected]
Phone: 524-1008
monthly publicAtion of the
1st & 3rd Wed. each month -8:30 a.m.
Chairman – Norman Casini
Council Workshop
Chair, Utilities & Sewers
[email protected]
Phone: 573-4958
Human Resources
Indy Field House
Library
Maple Shade Cemetery
Mayor’s Office
Outdoor Pool
Police Department
Post Office
Recreation Department
Service Department
Senior Services
Tech Services Dept.
Architectural Review Board
Council
James C. Piteo
IM POR TAN T N U M B E R S
POLICE/FIRE EMERGENCIES 9-1-1
Animal Control
524-3940
Building Department
524-1019
Chamber of Commerce
573-2707
City Meetings
328-1477
Clerk of Courts
524-4131
Community Services
524-7373
Council Clerk
524-1008
Economic Development
524-4131
Engineering Department 524-1374
Finance Department
524-4131
Fire Department
524-4001
COUNCIL MEMBERS
Jim Crooks
Technical Services Director
Joseph T. Lubin
Web Site: www.independenceohio.org
E-mail: [email protected]
city
Drivers Needed Periodically
to Deliver Meals
If you can help, please call
Natalie Buc at 524-7373
of i ndependence
INSIDE CITY HALL
50TH ANNIVERSARY AS A CITY
At the December 14 City Council meeting, Mayor Kurtz presented a proclamation celebrating the 50th Anniversary as a City to the current
and former officials who were present at that meeting.
It was noted that the City Officials at that historic time when Independence became a city on November 12, 1960, were Mayor Winfred
Wisnieski, Finance Director Elizabeth Becker, President of Council Robert Longano, members of Council, Grace Barker, Forrest Bramley,
Robert Gaab, Charles Kozelka, Gilbert Lambacher, Tom Walker, and Walter Kelley, Jr. was the Law Director.
Since 1960, there have been many individuals serving our city as mayor, members of council, finance director, law director, city planner,
etc., who are listed below. They helped shape our community into the premier city we have today! Independence would not be what it is today
without their vision, dedication, and commitment.
1960 to Present
Carl Asseff, M.D., Councilperson
Grace Barker, Councilperson
Vernon Blaze, Councilperson/Vice Mayor
Anthony Bontempo, Mayor, Councilperson
Forrest Bramley, Councilperson
Charles Cichocki, Councilperson
Kenneth Cooke, Councilperson
James Crooks, Councilperson
Robert Gaab, Councilperson
Elmer Gerding, Councilperson, Finance Dir.,
Clerk of Council
Noreen Gesinski, Councilperson
David Grendel, Councilperson
Edward Jarzen, Councilperson
George Klepacz, Councilperson
Joseph Kotabish, Mayor, Vice Mayor,
Councilperson
Charles K ozelka, Counci lperson
Gregory Kurtz, Mayor, Vice Mayor, Councilperson
Gilbert Lambacher, Vice Mayor, Councilperson
Robert Longano, Law Dir., Vice Mayor,
Councilperson
Barbara Mack, Councilperson
Gilbert Manke, Councilperson
Thomas Narduzzi, Councilperson
John Nicastro, Sr., Vice Mayor, Councilperson
Samuel Parrino, Councilperson
James Piteo, Councilperson
Fred Ramos, Mayor, Councilperson, Vice Mayor
James Riley, Councilperson, Vice Mayor
Laura Rice Merhaut, Councilperson
Kent Spellman, Councilperson
Kenneth Stevens, Vice Mayor, Councilperson
Daniel Todt, Councilperson
Anthony Togliatti, Councilperson, Vice Mayor
James Trakas, Councilperson
Thomas Walker, Councilperson
Patricia Wisnieski, Councilperson, Vice Mayor
W. Pete Wisnieski, Mayor
Patricia Woodrick, Councilperson, Vice Mayor
Harry Zaruba, Councilperson
Michael Zuber, Vice Mayor, Councilperson,
Finance Director
Robert Zuber, Councilperson
Louis Onders, Finance Director
George Spilker, Finance Director
Shelton Sweress, Finance Director
John M. Veres, Councilperson, Finance Director
Elizabeth Becker, Finance Dir., Clerk of Council
Roger Feick, Finance Dir., Clerk of Council
Terri Goodrich, Clerk of Council
Eleanor Hackett, Clerk of Council
Susan Kurshuk , Clerk of Council
Susan Prehoda, Clerk of Council
Robert Hill, City Planner
Jeffrey Markley, City Planner
Walter Kelley, Law Director
David Matia, Law Director
Gregory O’Brien, Law Director
Stephen O’Bryan, Law Director
Kenneth Stralka, Law Director
Members of the Original
Charter Commission
George Bent, Jr., Robert Boyer, Robert
Briggs, John Ciccozzi, George Evans, Harold
Fenwick, Thaddeus Fischer, James Funaro,
James Gates, Edward Hoffman, Allen
Montgomery, Alvin Pfahl, Arnold Schmidt,
James Stiffler, Lewis Wicks
Finance Coordinator/Systems Analyst
More and more now, the City’s administrative staff and members of
Council must spend more time dealing with issues that are occurring
outside the borders of Independence, but will have a significant impact
on what happens within Independence. I’d like to touch on just three
of these external issues this month.
In the Opening Session of the Ohio House this year, a number of
bills were introduced, including House Bill 3 (HB 3). HB 3 proposes
to eliminate the Estate Tax in the State of Ohio.
Supporters and detractors of this legislation are already lining up
on both sides of the issue. If HB 3 is passed in its current form, anyone
dying as a resident of Ohio would not have their estates taxed by the
state. Local municipalities would also be significantly impacted by
HB 3, as most of the money the state collects is remitted back to the
municipality where the decedent was a resident.
Independence does not usually receive a significant amount of its
annual revenue from the Estate Tax, but there have been infrequent
occasions when the City has received significant amounts.
A second external issue that we are monitoring quite closely is
Governor Kasich’s clear signals that his administration intends to
revisit the state’s 1983 Collective Bargaining Laws and, as Plain Dealer
columnist Thomas Suddes recently wrote, “tilt, toward management,
Ohio’s 1983 union-bargaining law for public employees.”
With five public employee unions, any changes to Ohio’s Collective
3
Bargaining Law will have a definite impact on how the City and its
bargaining units negotiate contracts in the future.
Another external issue we are actively monitoring concerns the new
form of County Government. Newly elected County Executive Ed
Fitzgerald outlined in his Inaugural Address four primary goals that he
has for Cuyahoga County.
One of his four goals is to “foster collaboration among communities.”
At a recent meeting with the Cuyahoga County Mayors and Managers
Association, County Executive Fitzgerald called on local Mayors and
City Managers to “identify services they might share.”
More and more pressure is being placed on the 59 independent
municipalities in Cuyahoga County, each with their own, often
overlapping, structures, managements, budgets and staff, to start
collaborating more so that the same or a greater level of service can still
be delivered in those 59 municipalities, but in a more cost-effective
manner.
No matter what your opinion is on any of these three issues, we all
can agree that they will have a direct and possibly material impact on
all municipalities, including the one we care about most--the City of
Independence. Rest assured that we are monitoring and planning how
to effectively deal with the changes coming our way.
– Vern Blaze
SENIOR CORNER
Medigap Basics
Home Energy Assistance
Program (HEAP)
What is HEAP?
HEAP is a federally funded program administered by the Ohio
Department of Development (ODOD). It is designed to help eligible
low-income Ohioans meet the high costs of home heating. HEAP
makes a one-time payment for most PUCO-regulated utility customers reflecting their usage for the current winter heating season.
Who is eligible?
The total household income of an applicant must be at or below
200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.
200% of the 2010-11 federal poverty guidelines
Size of Household
Yearly Income Limit
Three Month
Income Limit
1
up to $21,660
$5,415
2
$29,140
$7,285
3
$36,620
$9,155
4
$44,100
$11,025
5
$51,580
$12,895
6
$59,060
$14,765
For households with more than six members, add $7,480 per
member for 12 months or $1,870 for three months.
How do I sign up?
Call (800) 282-0880 or pick up an application at the Civic
Center, Community Services.
What to do if You Lose
Important Identity Documents
Losing a Social Security card or any other piece of ID not only
puts you at risk for identity theft, but replacing it can be very difficult. While you should always try to keep your information safe,
if you do run into this issue, here are some tips on safekeeping and
replacing major forms of ID.
1. Social Security card - Always leave your SS card at home. Don't
carry it around with you. Don't carry a copy of it as some people suggest. No one will accept a copy of a Social Security card in lieu of the
original, and you'll possibly put yourself at risk if you lose track of the
copy, which could end up in the wrong hands. If your card has been
stolen, report the theft at the Social Security Administration website.
Replacement - In order to replace your Social Security card, you'll
need proof of citizenship (usually a certified birth certificate) and
proof of identity. Proof of identity can be a passport, state driver's
license, or state identity card. You are only allowed 10 Social Security
card replacements in a lifetime and no more than 3 in a calendar year.
Visit www.ssa.gov for more information.
2. State Driver's License or Identification Card.
Replacement: Policies and requirements for getting a replacement
license or ID card vary by state.
3. Birth certificate - There are times in when documentation of birth
is required. Generally, a certified copy of your birth certificate (not a
photocopy) is required in order to obtain Social Security benefits or
4
FEBRUARY 2011 | A
A Medigap policy is a health insurance policy sold by private insurance companies. Costs you pay for Medicare benefits, such as coinsurance, copayments and deductibles, are called “gaps” in Original Medicare.
You might want to buy a Medigap policy to help cover these gaps. Some
Medigap policies also cover benefits that aren’t covered by Medicare, such
as emergency health care while traveling outside the United States.
Medigap coverage is different from your private coverage. Since
Medigap policies only help pay for health care costs if you are in Original
Medicare, you don’t need a Medigap policy if you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan.
Medigap policies must follow Federal and State laws designed to protect you, and they must be clearly identified as “Medicare Supplement Insurance.” Medigap insurance companies can sell you only a “standardized”
Medigap policy identified in most states by letters--plans A through N. All
plans offer the same basic benefits but some offer additional benefits, so
you can choose which one meets your needs.
Insurance companies may charge different premiums for exactly the
same Medigap coverage. As you shop for a Medigap policy, be sure you’re
comparing the same Medigap policy (for example, compare Plan A from
one company with Plan A from another company).
When you lose your health coverage, you may have special rights called
Medigap protections or guaranteed issue rights. If you buy a Medigap
policy when you have guaranteed issue rights, the insurance company
must sell you a policy, must cover pre-existing conditions, and can’t charge
you more because of any past or present health problems. Because you’re
losing coverage under your plan, you may have a right to buy a Medigap
policy. To protect your rights, you must apply for a Medigap policy
no later than 63 calendar days after your coverage under ends.
a replacement Social Security card (see Social Security card above).
It's a good idea to have a certified copy stored in a safe place so you'll
always have it if needed.
Replacement - If you don't have your original certified copy, contact the Bureau of Vital Statistics of the city in which you were born,
or visit the Centers for Disease Control website (www.cdc.gov) which
has links to all state bureaus for birth, death and marriage certificates.
Generally, the bureau will want a driver's license or other state or
military-issued ID as proof of identity. Note that you will most likely
have to pay a fee to get your certificate, which could take up to 15
days to be shipped.
4. Passport - Even if you're not planning on leaving the country
any time soon, a passport is a handy alternate form of ID. Usually
any requirements for identification list a passport as equivalent to a
driver's license or state ID, so having a passport is a helpful backup
in the event that your wallet or purse is ever stolen. Passports are extremely valuable on the black market, so make sure to safeguard this
document—place it alongside your Social Security card in a fireproof
lockbox until you need it.
Replacement - If your passport has been lost or stolen, you'll need
to fill out a form DS-64 found at the Department of State website
(www.state.gov) to record your loss.
As a rule, leave valuable documents locked up safe at home. If
for any reason you need to show something special, such as a Social
Security card, Passport, or Birth Certificate, you will probably know
in advance.
monthly publicAtion of the
city
of i ndependence
BUILDING DEPT.
SERVICE DEPT.
Compost
Compost is the
breakdown of organic
matter (leaves, grass,
branches, etc.). Compost
is delivered free of charge
to all Independence
residents on a first-come
first-served basis.
Guidelines for
Compost Delivery
On November 10, 2009 the Independence City Council amended Section
660.24 of the Codified Ordinances with regard to the storage of vehicles. The
ordinance reads, in part:
660.24 STORAGE OF VEHICLES.
(a) No person shall park or store, or permit to be parked or stored, outside of a
garage or other enclosed structure, any junk motor vehicle, or parts of motor
vehicles or other scrap, junk or motor vehicle refuse, on any property in
the Municipality, unless such person is operating a junk yard or scrap metal
processing facility licensed under authority of Ohio R.C. 4737.05 to 4737.12,
or under authority of the municipality, or the person having the right to
possession of the property can establish that such motor vehicle or parts are
part of a duly authorized or permitted business operation on such property.
(b) No motor vehicle not having a current annual license plate shall be parked or
stored outside of a garage or other enclosed structure on any property in the
Municipality for more than thirty days.
(c) The Chief of Police or Building Inspector may send notice, by certified mail
with return receipt requested and by regular mail, to the person having the
right to the possession of the property on which a motor vehicle or parts
prohibited by this section are left, that within ten days of receipt of the notice
such motor vehicle or parts shall either be covered by being housed in a
garage or other enclosed structure or shall be permanently removed from the
property.
No person shall willfully leave such a motor vehicle or parts uncovered in the
open for more than ten days after receipt of a notice as provided in this section.
The fact that such motor vehicle or parts are so left is a prima-facie evidence of
willful failure to comply with the notice and a separate offense shall be deemed
committed each subsequent period of ten days that such motor vehicle or parts
continue to be so left.”
Anyone who has a vehicle or vehicles without current plates must store that
vehicle or vehicles in a garage or other enclosed structure on their property. Junk
vehicle parts must also be stored in the same manner. Please note that vehicles with
historic plates do not meet the annual license plate provision.
If you have any questions regarding this ordinance, please feel free to contact
the Building Department at (216) 524-1019, and they will be happy to answer
your questions.
5
• Call the Service
Department at 5249191 after March 1 to
be placed on the compost list.
• Sign-up is required every year, as all requests are deleted
at the end of each year.
• Your name, address, and phone number are needed.
• The Service Department will notify you by phone of the
delivery date. If no one is home, a message will be left on
your answering machine. You must return the phone call
in order to receive a delivery.
• Resident must sign a waiver with drop-off location
noted on the waiver for the City to deliver a load of
compost, or have someone in their household sign the
waiver when compost is delivered.
• Location must be on the driveway or other hard surface.
• We will not deliver compost to backyards.
• Second loads will be delivered after all first requests have
been met.
• A compost pile for residents who want to pick up their
own is available outside the Service Department. The
Service Department DOES NOT load private vehicles,
so bring your own container and shovel.
Streetlights
To report a streetlight outage, you can call CEI/
First Energy at 1-800-589-3101, or go online to www.
firstenergycorp.com. Click on Customer Care, Online Service
Requests, and then Report Streetlight Outage. Inform CEI
of the location of the streetlight and what is wrong with it-damaged pole, light fixture broken, the light comes on during
the day, light flickers, etc.
Water Leaks
All water leaks should be reported to the Cleveland Water
Department at 216-664-3060. Also, should you have low
water pressure, brown water, no water, or questions regarding
boiling of water, please call the Cleveland Water Department.
www.ind ep en denceoh io.org
CLIP AND SAVE THIS PAGE
RECYCLE – IT’S BETTER FOR OUR ENVIRONMENT
The City would like to see all households recycle as much as possible. Below are lists
to help you determine what is recyclable and what is not. And, remember, you can put all
your recyclables in one container…you do not need to separate!
ACCEPTABLE ITEMS FOR RECYCLING
Non-Fiber
•
•
•
•
•
•
Aluminum Cans
Aluminum trays, foil, cat food cans
Bimetal cans and food containers
Empty aerosol cans
Clear, brown and green glass jars and bottles
Plastic containers marked #1 to #7--Examples:
#1 Soft drink and water bottles
Peanut butter jars
Window cleaner bottles
Mouth wash bottles
#2 Laundry detergent bottles
Windshield washer fluid bottles
Coffee containers
Milk jugs
Butter tubs
Medicine bottles
#3 Shampoo bottles
Cooking oil bottles
Hand soap bottles
Gladware container lids
Juice bottles
#4 Mustard bottles
Margarine tub tops
Ice cream tub tops
Squeezable bottles
#5 Cool Whip containers
Gladware tubs
Plastic flower pot containers
Apple sauce cups
Plastic cups
#6 Plastic cookie trays
Vegetable tub containers
Take-away containers
#7 Orange juice bottles
Kids’ snack containers
Some ketchup bottles
Fiber
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
6
Newspapers
Magazines
Corrugated Cardboard
Telephone Books
Catalogues
Mail
Printer/copier paper
Chipped Board (cereal boxes)
FEBRUARY 2011 | A
UNACCEPTABLE ITEMS FOR RECYCLING
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
Wax cartons
Batteries
Incandescent Light bulbs
Wire hangers
Plastic bags
Styrofoam
Toys
Plastic utensils
UNACCEPTABLE FOR RECYCLING BUT
THESE ITEMS, MOST OF WHICH ARE
HAZARDOUS WASTE, CAN BE PUT OUT
FOR FRIDAY SPECIAL PICKUPS*
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
Paints, sealers, primers
Varnishes, shellacs, polyurethanes
Adhesives, roof tar, sealers
Antifreeze containers
Motor oil containers
Batteries (rechargeable only)
Fluorescent tube and CFL Bulbs only
Used cooking oil
Gasoline and kerosene
Pesticides, herbicides, fungicides
Computers
White goods (appliances)
Furniture and hulk (heavy) metals
*Call the Service Department for a Friday Special
Pickup 524-9191
PROPANE CYLINDERS
The City of Independence does not pick up propane
cylinders. The companies listed below will dispose of your
propane cylinder for a small fee:
Welders Supply (216) 241-1696
Gas House Propane Co. (440) 439-4474
SYRINGES & HYPODERMIC NEEDLES
Seal in an empty plastic pop bottle, label “household
syringes” and discard in the trash.
MEDICINE
Unwanted medicine should be disposed with
household trash. Keep the medicine in its original
container. Remove the label or conceal patient
information with a marker. Make the medicine unusable
by dissolving pills with water or absorb liquid medication
with flour, table salt, or another non-toxic substance.
Seal the original container with tape. Place the package
monthly publicAtion of the c ity of i ndependence
inside a non-transparent container and put it out with your
rubbish.
✂
SERVICE DEPT.
POLICE DEPT.
Winter Running Tips
For those of you who are suffering from cabin fever and decide
to go outside in the elements for a run, consider the following safety
tips.
because it holds the moisture and will keep
you wet. An outer breathable layer of nylon or
Gore-Tex will help protect you against wind and
precipitation.
Don't Forget Your Head
Be Visible
Wear white, yellow, or orange clothing with reflective strips. Our
hours of daylight are short in the winter and runners are very hard to
see when it is dark.
Pay Attention to Temperature and Wind Chill
If the wind is strong, it penetrates your clothing and removes
the insulating layer of warm air around you. If the temperature dips
below zero or the wind chill is below minus 20, hit the treadmill
instead.
Protect Your Hands and Feet
Wear running gloves that wick moisture away. Mittens are better
on colder days because your fingers will share your body heat. You
can also tuck disposable heat packets into your mittens. Add a wicking sock liner under a warm polar fleece or wool sock, but make sure
you have enough room in your running shoes to accommodate these
thicker socks.
Dress in Layers
Start with a thin layer of synthetic material, such as polypropylene, which wicks sweat from your body. Stay away from cotton
Wearing a hat will help prevent heat loss.
When it's really cold, wear a face mask or a scarf
over your mouth to warm the air you breathe
and protect your face.
Check with Your MD
Before braving the elements, talk to your doctor if you have any
medical conditions or concerns about exercising outdoors.
Don't Stay in Wet Clothes
If you get wet from rain, snow, or sweat in cold temperatures,
you're at an increased risk for hypothermia, a lowering of your body
temperature. If you're wet, change your clothes and get to warm shelter as quickly as possible. If you suspect hypothermia--characterized
by intense shivering, loss of coordination, slurred speech, and fatigue-get emergency treatment immediately.
Stay Hydrated
Despite the cold weather, you'll still heat up and lose fluids
through sweat. Cold air also has a drying effect which can increase
the risk of dehydration. Make sure you drink water or a sports drink
before, during, and after your run.
New Beginnings Feline Shelter
We have three wonderful cats at the shelter, Roxy, Lucky and Flutter, who have been at the shelter for a while. They have been passed
over because the cute playful kittens at the shelter get most of the attention. All three have been fully vaccinated and spayed or neutered.
Roxy is a very lovely female cat who is approximately 1-1/2 years
old. She is very friendly and would love to be a single pet companion
in your home. Please consider adopting foxy Roxy, she will be your
wonderful lifetime indoor companion.
Lucky is a handsome male, approximately 2 years old. He has
All black cat: Lucky likes to watch
baseball and football!!
7
beautiful black fur and a laid back personality. He would love to be a
single pet companion in your home. Please consider adopting Lucky,
so he can be your special indoor buddy.
Flutter is a beautiful female tortoise shell cat, approximately 5 years
of age. She is very sweet and shy. Flutter is not happy in the shelter,
she would rather be your single pet companion.
Please consider opening your heart and home to one of these special cats. They would be wonderful indoor pets with a lot of
love to give.
Orange and black cat: Flutter likes to sit by the
window and watch the squirrels and birds!
www.ind ep en denceoh io.org
Tiger cat: Roxy has beautiful green eyes!
Historically Speaking
By Wes Gaab
Wes Gaab had a most
unfortunate accident recently. He
fell on the ice and broke his hip in
four places. He is recuperating now
and, needless to say, Wes wasn’t
able to write an article for this issue
of the Post. Therefore, we searched his old articles and thought you
might enjoy reading the one from February 2004:
Outdoor winter sports in Independence back in the 20’s and 30’s
consisted of ice skating, going down a hill on a sled, which we, for
some unknown reason, called sleigh riding, and that new thing-skiing. There were a number of ponds throughout the Village which
kids skated on, but the biggest and best was Hunt’s Pond. It was
located on the Hunt Estate (that figures) which is now owned by
Dr. Marshall and his doctor wife. You would get to the pond from
Hemlock road, but don’t try skating there now because the pond
drained. There used to be some rough and tumble hockey games
played there and, of course, with no protective equipment. Most kids
couldn’t even afford to buy a hockey stick, so you made one out of a
sapling that grew out of a steep bank, which caused it to grow upward
at an angle. By chopping and whittling you could fashion it into
something resembling a hockey stick.
About 1935-36, the Village constructed an artificial skating pond
at the end of Daisy Avenue about 200 feet from where I lived. They
brought in the only piece of earth moving equipment they had, a road
Kiwanis Korner
Tickets are now available for the Kiwanis Club's 56th Pancake
Breakfast on Sunday, March 6, at the Independence Middle School
cafeteria. Kiwanians will be serving all-you-can-eat pancakes from
9a.m. to 3 p.m. $6 for adults and $4 for children 12 and under. This
is the first community fund-raiser of the new year. We look forward to
having a great breakfast with our friends and neighbors.
The 40th Annual Easter Egg Hunt for toddlers to age 8 is set
for Saturday, April 23, at the Liberty Station playground, beginning
at 9 a.m. Our Easter Bunny likes to have his picture taken with the
youngsters. This is a Kiwanis “thank you” event for resident children,
with lots of candy and many prizes.
On Saturday, April 2, the Kiwanis Spring Garage Sale will fill
up the Elmwood Recreation Center in Elmwood Park, from 9 a.m.
to 2 p.m. Independence residents sign up for tables at the Recreation
Dept. desk at Civic Center. Check the Spotlight publication for the
sign-up date. Tables rent for $10 each, and the proceeds from this
event will go to the Dorothy Ornas Scholarship Fund offered by the
Kiwanis Club. You keep all the money from sales of your items. If you
cannot participate in the spring garage sale, try for the fall garage sale
on Saturday, October 1.
8
FEBRUARY 2011 | A
scraper, and peeled off the sod which formed a 360 degree bank about
150 feet in diameter. Then, from a fire hydrant, they ran a hose down
to the “rink” and filled it. Several problems developed. By the time
the water froze, most of it had soaked into the ground leaving only
isolated pockets of ice. The pressure from the hydrant was so strong
that it blasted dirt and rocks out of the ground that later became
embedded in the ice. So, skating on Daisy Pond took on an all new
dimension not found on any other ice venue.
The early sleds were usually homemade. They were constructed of
wood with a metal strip nailed to the bottom of the runners. Wooden
sleds were before my time. My sled was the now famous Flexible Flyer
with the big bald eagle emblazed on its shiny varnished surface. The
Flexible Flyer, as the name implied, had flexible metal runners that
could be turned with your feet if you sat on the sled, or, if you were
more daring, you steered with your arms if you “belly-slammed.” For
sheer speed, nothing, then or now, could beat a F.F.
When I was a kid, and that goes back a ways, skis were unknown
until Joe Steinocher brought a new pair he got for Christmas to our
favorite hill. It was behind Mapleshade Cemetery and ran parallel
to Old Rockside Road. It was steep and hazardous. The skis were
wooden with an adjustable leather strap that you slipped your foot
into. Nothing like today’s skis. We were in awe of Joe for attempting
to go down Grane’s hill with those things. After several unsuccessful
runs of about 20 feet, or so, he finally got the hang of it, and down
the hill he zoomed. Coming up the hill pulling his Flexible Flyer
was a kid (no, not me) who when he looked up saw Joe flying down
towards him. He panicked and tried to go to the other side of the run
pulling his sled right into the path of Joe. He didn’t even have time to
fall down before Joe’s skis slammed under that kid's sled and Joe was
airborne, landing face down he bounced and slid for a good 25 feet.
Fortunately, the ground wasn’t frozen, so he only had some scratches
and bruises, not broken bones, but he did have two broken skis. It
goes without saying…no one on the hill that day was going to ask for
skis for Christmas the next year.
On Saturday, May 7th, the Kiwanis Bob Agan Fishing Derby
will bring Independence boys and girls to Elmwood Pond to reel in
the many fish that will be stocked three days earlier. The event was
named after Bob Agan, the Kiwanis member who initiated the event
43 years ago. It is open to local children ages 3 to 12 and there is no
charge. This is another Kiwanis community “thank you” event. It is
scheduled rain or shine.
A reminder to parents of Independence High School students-urge your students to apply for Kiwanis Club scholarships. Five are
offered each year, and application forms are available at the high
school library. See Michelle Wise. Our Kiwanis scholarships are also
open to students who attend private high schools located in other
communities. Application forms will be available at the Civic Center
desk.
February 14th is a special day – Valentine's Day! It is also the day
spring begins in the Everglades creeping northward 15 miles per day.
Think Spring!
For more information about Independence Kiwanis Club, please
visit our website at www.IndependenceKiwanis.com.
monthly publicAtion of the
city
of i ndependence
CITY COUNCIL NEWS
Anthony Togliatti
Vice Mayor
Carl F. Asseff, M.D
Councilman
Jim Crooks
Councilman
Thomas Narduzzi
Councilman
COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2011
Mayor Kurtz called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m. Present were
Council Members Dr. Asseff, Crooks, Narduzzi, Piteo, Riley, Togliatti and Wisnieski. Also present were Finance Director Veres, Law
Director O’Brien, Engineer Ramm, Community Services Director
Buc, Technical Services Director Avsec, Service Director Snyderburn,
Recreation Director Kostyack, Building Commissioner Opatrny, Fire
Chief Nelson and Police Chief Nicastro.
Reverend Leroy Ford of the Independence Presbyterian Church
said the prayer. The Pledge of Allegiance followed.
Mayor Kurtz asked for a moment of silence with respect to the
Tucson tragedy.
PRESENTATIONS
Mayor Kurtz presented the Independence High School Boys Cross
Country Team with a proclamation recognizing their second straight
Ohio High School Athletic Association Division III State Championship.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of December 14,
2010 were approved.
MAYOR’S REPORT
Mayor Kurtz reported, a few minutes ago, we recognized the
Independence High School Cross Country Team on their second
straight Ohio High School Athletic Association Division III State
Championship, and I can’t express enough the thrill I feel by their success! Congratulations again, on your team’s outstanding success for the
second year in a row!
While on the subject of the schools, earlier this evening at the
Council Caucus, we heard a presentation by the Friends of the Independence Schools. The “Friends” wanted to inform us about the levy
and also make us aware of the ramifications if the levy, which is on the
9
James C. Piteo
Councilman
Jim Riley
Councilman
Patricia Wisnieski
Councilwoman
ballot February 8, is not passed.
We recently announced the preliminary, unaudited financial results
for 2010, and I am very proud to report that we are able to successfully reduce the City’s Actual Operating Expenditures for an unprecedented second year in a row! This is an outstanding accomplishment,
especially given that we were able to achieve this measure of success
without decreasing the level of service delivered to the community!
The City’s Actual Operating Expenditures decreased from $20.96
Million in 2008 to $20.57 Million in 2009 to $20.38 Million in
2010. Many, many people are responsible for this accomplishment,
from City Council Members to all City employees.
Operating a local municipality is different now than it was just a
few short years ago, and I personally thank all City Team Members
for their understanding of the current economic realities that have to
be dealt with. Together, we will continue to do what needs to be done
within the confines of economic realities to ensure that Independence
remains a premier Northeast Ohio community “in which to live,
work, visit and raise a family.”
Finally, we are almost two months into the new Automated Rubbish System, and I am pleased to report that fast and steady progress
affirms that this system is the best way to operate in 2011.
You may have seen the article on the topic of automated rubbish
collection that appeared in the Metro Section of this past Sunday’s
Plain Dealer. North Olmsted Service Director Chase Ritenauer was
quoted as saying “I honestly think that it’s the wave of the future. I
think it’s only a matter of time before everybody’s automated or there’s
a requirement that you do it.”
The article reiterated a lot of the benefits that we communicated
to the community during 2010, including the major benefit of the
program of reducing injuries to collection workers. It is estimated that
“more than five percent of trash collectors miss work each year because
of work injuries, and about 80 are killed on the job in a typical year.”
Today--I am even more convinced that we made the correct and
the best decision to implement this system as it benefits both the City
and our community.
www.ind ep en denceoh io.org
OFFICIALS’ REPORTS
VERES – FINANCE DIRECTOR
Finance Director Veres reported, I happily report
that we ended the year with a greater unreserved
cash balance in the General Fund than what we had
projected. We were projecting about $1.4 million.
We ended up with $2,500,292, due in large part to
the Administration’s concentration on expenses, a
little bit of extra revenue coming in from EMS billing,
and inheritance taxes were up over $500,000 for the first time in my
tenure. We usually take in only around $100,000. Another factor was
that non-union employees had a zero percent increase in their wages
this year.
Total General Fund expenditures were slightly down from last
year--around $2,700 less than last year. That gives us a ratio of unreserved cash in the General Fund, in comparison to the expenses, of
13.26%, which is a greater percentage than we expected. We attempt
to try and keep 15% in order to keep our credit rating where it is
with Moody’s. We are trending toward that 15%, and I think we can
achieve that in 2011.
CITY ENGINEER – RAMM
City Engineer Ramm stated, I would like to thank
the Police Department and Service Department for
their quick response last month to the watermain
break on Brecksville Road. It was a significant safety
issue when that pavement heaved. They were quick
to take action. They set up a zone that enabled the
Cleveland Division of Water to expedite their work
on repairing the main, as well as our contractors
coming in the days following the repair to restore the
roadway.
The Engineering Department wishes to report the following items
from this past month’s activities:
Two right-of-way permits were issued, one to AT&T to install
conduit along the south side of Rockside Road to provide new service
for the redevelopment site at 6700 Rockside Road (old Liberty Ford
property), and the other to Dominion East Ohio to replace a gas
main, now completed, along the north side of Hillside Road between
Sunoco and Greenwood Street.
We assisted the Service Department with coordination for the
emergency road repair resulting from the 12-inch water main break
that occurred December 14th on Brecksville Road. The repair work
was completed within seven days and entailed storm sewer replacement and pavement replacement. Resolution 2011-10 on tonight’s
agenda authorizes payment of $68,734 to Specialized Construction
for emergency work performed last month. The final asphalt restoration for the repair area will take place this spring or summer under
a future construction contract. A request has been submitted to the
City of Cleveland Division of Water for reimbursement for this repair
expense.
We have been involved in the review of variance requests for six
sublots in the Chestnut Woods Subdivision that are before the City’s
Board of Zoning Appeals. The developer is seeking variances to the
City’s Wetland and Riparian Setback Ordinances to permit the construction of single-family residential homes on these vacant lots that
are contiguous to existing streams and/or wetlands. We are coordinating review efforts with our Law Department and with experts in this
field from the Cuyahoga County Soil & Water Conservation District
as well as from a private engineering consulting firm.
Lastly, we continue to coordinate with our engineering con-
sultants, Dick Pace (ITC), and existing utility companies relative
to the upcoming Selig Drive / ITC / Brecksville Road Intersection
Realignment project. Plans and specifications are being finalized and
we anticipate advertising the construction project for bidding in the
coming weeks.
BUILDING COMMISSIONER
– OPATRNY
Commissioner Opatrny reported Petros Homes
has proposed a new home in the Twin Creeks development. Wetland setback issues in Chestnut Woods
continue to be discussed with the Cuyahoga County
Soil and Water District.
With regard to Liberty Commons, framing for the front façade is
nearly complete, and Panera Bread’s exterior wall is complete. CSA
will be installing a temporary oil storage tank on site. KeyBank’s structural steel erection is near completion. A Certificate of Occupancy has
been issued to the Jimmy Johns restaurant and the grand opening is
tentatively scheduled for January 24.
Framing for the second floor of the ITC addition is nearing
completion, and Starbucks has submitted drawings for a renovation of
their current space.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
DIRECTOR – BUC
No report.
FIRE CHIEF – NELSON
Chief Nelson reported, the Quadcity Community
Emergency Response Team (CERT) will be hosting
a National CERT animal response training program
to support the disaster response training that our
volunteers have already received in the CERT Basic
Training course. The focus of the CERT Animal
Response I & 2 is preparing our volunteers to recognize specific animal behaviors and situations involving animals in
which our volunteers may encounter when performing broader CERT
response functions. Ginger MacCutcheon and Donna Algeri have
offered to teach these two classes. The classes are scheduled for March
23 and 30, 2011 at the Independence Civic Center. Please call the Fire
Department for additional information.
With the high cost of natural gas, many residents are using fireplaces to supplement heating their homes. Some safety tips for using
fireplaces include having flues and chimneys inspected by a certified
chimney sweep for leakage and blockage by creosote or debris. Open
the fireplace damper before lighting a fire and keep it open until the
ashes are cool. Store fireplace ashes in a fire resistant container and
cover it with a lid. Keep the container outdoors and away from combustibles. Go to www.usfa.dhs.gov for additional information.
POLICE CHIEF – NICASTRO
Chief Nicastro reported, some residents have
asked why barrels are still on the road at Brecksville
and E. Pleasant Valley even though construction has
been completed at this time. The reason for this is
because the cold weather is preventing us from restriping SR 21. Therefore, if the barrels were moved,
it would create a confusing traffic pattern with lanes crossing E. Pleasant Valley that would not line up. Thus, the barrels will remain until
the proper lanes can be re-established.
The Police Department, with approval of Council, has selected
Sundance Systems, Inc. of Valley View, Ohio to provide the City with
an upgraded computer-aided dispatch and records management system.
The system will provide a number of technological enhancements and
will lead to greater efficiencies throughout the department. Information
Systems Administrator Jim Gibbs and Lt. Chuck Wilson are heading
the project. Implementation began at the end of December and the
target date for completion is the end of March.
RECREATION DIRECTOR
– KOSTYACK
Director Kostyack reported, the 1st & 2nd Grade
Basketball Program started last Saturday, January 8,
with 26 children participating. The program will be
held every Saturday for the month of January from
1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
On January 8, the Native Sons & Daughters held their Late Nighter
at the Civic Center from 7:00 to 11:30 p.m., with 250 people in
attendance. They used the kitchen, pool, gym, and atrium area. The
inflatable was set up in the gym for their enjoyment.
The Winter Learn to Swim program begins Wednesday, January 12.
We also have a Saturday class with 84 children participating.
Registration for adult and children’s golf lessons are being taken
now.
During the months of January and February there will be seven
tournaments held at the Indy Field House.
Registration for the 2011 Little League season has begun.
SERVICE DIRECTOR
– SNYDERBURN
Director Snyderburn reported, I’d like to thank
Council, the Mayor, my staff, and everybody who
helped me with the new rubbish collection system,
especially the residents. This is the way of the future.
I know that progress can sometimes be difficult, but
I want to again thank the residents for their cooperation. We have approximately 95% cooperation with the new collection
system after two months. That is unparallel compared to other cities
I’ve talked to.
Please do not put additional bags of rubbish at the curb, and be sure
to position your container in the proper direction for ease in collection.
I also want to thank George and Maggie Klump for their donation
of the nice Christmas tree in the Courtyard.
Congratulations to Dennis Messina, who retired in December after
19 years in the Service Department.
TECHNICAL SERVICES
DIRECTOR – AVSEC
Director Avsec reported, the Service Department
lighting upgrade project will begin in approximately
three weeks. The additional $12,538.00 of grant funding, that was available and applied for last month, has
been approved for our use by NOPEC.
The City of Independence has been awarded $50,000 from
the county-sponsored Municipal Energy Program Grant that we applied for last month. These funds will be used to perform an ASHRAE
Level II Energy Audit throughout the City Campus. The data collected
will help us in our budget planning over the next five years. The next
step is choosing our consultant. We will be reporting more in the coming months.
STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
ASSEFF – ECONOMIC GROWTH
& DEVELOPMENT
Councilperson Asseff reported, I have really been debating Resolution 2011-13, which is the resolution in support of the tax levy for the
schools. I have added my name to support the schools because I really
value education. However, my supporting this does not mean that I
support the business practices of the Board of Education. The City is
reducing its budget by 5%, and they should be reducing their budget.
I did some research. I looked up their 2008/2009 audit filed with
the State. They only show 48% of the dollars that they take in go to
instructional endeavors for the students. I compared that with North
Royalton, a comparable school district with outstanding performance,
and 60% of their dollars go for instruction. In comparing the cost per
student, North Royalton is $10,000, as is the Green school system in
Summit County. Independence is almost $15,000 per student.
We have an excellent school system providing a quality education.
However, these are troubled economic times. I hear from patients that
live in Independence that they must live within their means.
I can’t foretell the outcome of the election. I can say that I support
this, and hope that it turns out the way the School Board wants. But
if not, I would like to see a split between the renewal and the increase.
Many people I’ve talked to said they would have immediately supported a renewal levy.
Even if it turns out the way they want, that doesn’t mean that they
don’t persevere in reducing the costs of a quality education.
CROOKS – FINANCE COMMITTEE
Chairperson Crooks reported, the Finance Committee will be back
in action in the next 30 days, or so, as we now set our sights on monitoring the 2011 budget. As in the past, we’ll hold regular meetings to
monitor our income tax collection, and distribute our budget calendar
to outline the major milestones of the budget year, and Council’s involvement in them. Before we know it, the time will be here when we’ll
begin discussion of the Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan. Look for
that discussion to be coming sometime in the spring.
An interesting note should be pointed out as it relates to Finance
Director Veres closing the books for 2010, and as he mentioned in his
report. In 2008, our total operating expenditures for the City totaled
$20,955,462. In 2009, our operating expenses were reduced by approximately 1.83%, to $20,572,178. In 2010, for the second consecutive year, the City was able to pare back its operating budget another
near percent, for a total final expenditure of $20,383,347.
According to the weekly update we receive, this two-year consecutive decrease in City spending is a milestone dating back more than
25 years. This is not by accident, but is the product of a collaborative
effort of Council, Finance Director Veres, the Finance Department, the
Mayor and his team and directors. We focused on the expenditure side
of the ledger, and now we have to stay focused on the revenue side for
2011.
Finally, as Councilperson Asseff and Councilperson Narduzzi have
mentioned, many from the schools are here tonight. I want to say that
they have my full support for this levy. I’m a resident of the district,
as are my sisters, my wife teaches in the district, and I was a baseball
coach at the high school for six years. I campaigned for the levy. I have
written letters. We’ve written checks to the campaign, and from time
to time I still have chance to talk to the government classes. So, when
people ask me if I support the school levy, the answer, like so many others up here on Council is, of course. I do.
But, this support does not preclude me from having great concern
about the future of public education as a whole – great concern. Go-
ing back to the residents every other year is not a sustainable funding
mechanism. We need real leadership in the decision-making venues that
can affect real change.
I used to think that unfunded mandates were a cliché, but after seeing more than $1 million of the district’s budget for the requirements
from Columbus or Washington DC, I know that leadership must be
funded. I see how local school districts are hampered. Something must
change. We’ve heard it all before, so I won’t bore you. But, the funding
mechanism is broken. From my perspective, tenure must be reformed
and supplemented with a performance-based metric. I have grown
increasingly concerned with the progressive and, at times, from my
perspective, an anti-American curriculum, that our students are being
taught.
If you want my support, you’ve got it, but I am not ashamed to
talk about what I see to be the realities of public education. After all, I
am a product of our good school district, and there is optimism in my
message, because I don’t how, and I don’t know where, but you have my
word tonight that I’m going to help in making some of these changes
that I mentioned above take place.
NARDUZZI – PUBLIC LANDS AND BUILDINGS
Councilperson Narduzzi reported, a Public Hearing was held January 4 at 6:45 p.m. to discuss a request for a change of use from U-5 to
U-3 to permit a college educational use of the building located at 6400
Rockside Road. The Planning Commission listened to Tom Finley from
Omni Property Company on his request for the change of use.
One of the issues the Planning Commission has is the planning of
the parking spaces in front of the building, the aesthetic treatment for
that, the final landscape plan, how it will impact the aesthetics of Rockside Road, and, finally, the financial impact it will have on our schools.
The building was purchased at a much lower cost than its original value,
lowering the taxes the schools would receive.
The Planning Commission will vote on this issue at their meeting on
February 1.
The Planning Commission also heard from Diane Jereb, representing
MetroHealth Center for Sleep Medicine. For the past two years, Diane
has been the Director of Operations that operates two suites at the
Marriott Courtyard on West Creek Drive in Independence. The request
was to continue to allow a zoning exemption by allowing a business to
run out of a hotel. In 2010, the MetroHealth Center for Sleep Medicine
has seen more than 1,000 patients, had no 911 calls, and there were
no safety or security issues of any kind. The Commission approved the
request 5-0.
The Public Lands & Buildings Committee did not meet last month,
but will meet in February for an update from Ron White on the old
middle school building. Ron continues to market the building for future
use.
On the agenda tonight is Resolution 2011-13, a resolution supporting Issue 2 regarding the Independence Local School District’s proposed
operating and renewal levy.
I wholeheartedly support the levy. I also believe the public education
system needs a total reform from a state level. But until that takes place,
common sense tells us we must support our local school district with
their financial challenges, not only for our current students and future
leaders, but also for our City as a whole. It has been proven time and
time again that a strong, vibrant community also contains a strong and
vibrant school district.
We, as residents of Independence, are blessed to have the amenities
all of us use in one fashion or another to make living here more enjoyable, convenient, and safe. I urge you to give back to our community,
and keep it the best place to live, work, and raise a family. I hope you
will support our school system in their quest to be an excellent provider
of education for our youth.
PITEO – UTILITIES & SEWERS COMMITTEE
Councilperson Piteo reported, I would like to congratulate a couple
of businesses that made Fox 8’s Hot List. The Fox 8 Cleveland HOT
LIST features more than 5,365 businesses competing for title of the
Cleveland area’s best.
Ginger’s Pet House received 1st Place for Best Couture. Mavis Winkle’s received 1st Place for Best Irish Pub. The Winking Lizard received
1st Place for Best Beer Selection and 2nd Place for Best Wings. Brielle’s
Coffee and Tea House received Second Place for Best Coffee House.
The Board of Zoning Appeals met on December 16. There were
seven items on the Agenda. The first item requesting a variance to the
height of a playhouse located on a resident’s property was granted 5-0.
The next six items were variance requests for wetland setbacks and riparian setbacks submitted by Perrico Property Systems, Inc. to allow six different lots to be buildable. Those requests were tabled so that the Board
could seek guidance from outside experts.
The Utilities & Sewers Committee will meet in the beginning of
February to summarize projects completed in 2010 and discuss what
projects may be on the horizon for 2011. On tonight’s Council Agenda
are Ordinances 2011-03 and 2011-04, which will update Chapters 1380
and 1381 of the Codified Ordinances to current Ohio EPA standards.
Also on the agenda is Resolution 2011-14 authorizing payment to EnviroServe for underground storage tank removal services on city owned
property.
Last month, Vice Mayor Togliatti, you claimed you had a meeting with Ron White, Al Yano, and the Chesler Group, and that all of
Council was invited on some sort of tour you had arranged. I searched
through minutes of all meetings that the Council Clerk would have taken minutes of and there is not a record of this meeting. What I did find,
is a conversation way back in May of 2009 at a Regular Council meeting
that took place after the residents voted down Issue 5. You had asked the
Council and Administration, before it went into executive session, if you
could bring up a few things. At that time you had informed the Council
and Administration that you had contacted a historic renovator to actually go into the middle school and the buildings across the street to give
us an expert opinion on the cost associated with restoring the building,
eliminating asbestos, moving the building, whatever options we may
have.
Where is that report?
I continued to read the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting
of May 2009. The question was asked by Councilperson Crooks, why
didn’t you bring this up last year when we spent so much time talking
about this?
My question is, if you had a proposal that would have possibly benefitted the City regarding the use of the Old Middle School, why didn’t
you send it in our packets? Why did you not call one of us? It may have
changed some views on Council. Who knows, the building could be
sold by now or in use by some entity.
As I continued to read the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting in May 2009, a conversation with Director Ron White and yourself
ensued. It went like this:
Director White stated to Vice Mayor Riley, if I may make a comment,
Councilperson Togliatti knows that I know Michael (Chesler) from when we
met a couple of years ago.
Councilperson Togliatti replied, right, I introduced him to you.
Director White stated, and we also toured the school. Mike has seen the
school.
Councilperson Togliatti replied, yes.
The last conversation indicates to me that you are again confused.
According to what I just read, Ron White and Michael Chesler toured
the school a couple of years ago. There was no mention of a Public
Lands and Buildings tour when this happened.
Again, if you had information available to you why did you hold
it back? Why, if so fiscally responsible, wouldn’t you introduce an idea
that could have potentially saved the residents of this City serious
money?
In a Strategic Planning Meeting in September of 2009 you stated
that you were going to have Michael Chesler give us a proposal on
what to do with the Old Middle School.
In a Public Lands and Buildings Meeting of October of 2009 you
said you had a proposal from Michael Chesler for the Old Middle
School and that you would bring him in so he could present his ideas
to Council.
Today, January 11, 2011, and I still have not seen a proposal for
the Old Middle School from you or The Chesler Group.
Why? Is it politics? My gut tells me that you held up that information to do just what you have done in your Monthly Council Report
in the past--try to make your colleagues, the ones that you thought
should respect and follow you, look bad once again.
Our children should not be denied the optimum education because of a broken funding system for public schools in Ohio. I am a
Dad with two girls who score well in school, mostly A’s. They deserve
the same, if not better, education than what their predecessors had.
My son is a graduate of Independence and is thriving in Houston,
because of the education and stability he had in Independence.
It is time to think outside of what has been status quo in Ohio and
in our region. Perhaps smaller cities, such as Independence, Cuyahoga
Heights, and Valley View, should embrace a partnership of some sort.
I am not sure I am ready to embrace full out regionalism, but perhaps
there is value in sharing resources at the level of the school system.
I urge anyone that I talk to not accept the premise that if Issue 2
passes, all is well. We are being told that if the funding mechanism is
not addressed that levies will be a very common occurrence.
In speaking with many residents, several ideas are thrown out as to
how to fix the system. Some of my colleagues have expressed ideas and
concerns that should be heard. It may be time for a couple of town
hall meetings to fully vet these ideas. I urge my friends and fellow residents, young and old, to attend School Board meetings. Understand
the mechanics of how the School Board and various entities handle
our school system, how the State of Ohio effects everyday operations, how administrative and labor affects your child’s education, and
finally, how the decisions made ultimately impact your community.
The magnitude of issues involved leads me to think that it will not be
a quick fix.
That being said, the children and families caught in this roller
coaster we call public school should not lose the advantages that have
been given to all the graduates before them. Support Issue 2 and then
let’s get to work.
Please get out and support your community, way of life, and your
schools with a yes vote for Issue 2.
Vice Mayor Togliatti responded, you are correct. I did bring the
historic renovator to the City of Independence who toured the building twice. You are correct in saying that on May 12, 2009, I did make
a motion to allow him to go into that building. I talked about having
a tour. At that point in time, the Mayor directed Economic Development Director Ron White to handle that tour.
My report last month was about being proactive, and trying to do
things in advance, to get things done--to have foresight.
I did this a few years back because we needed to educate ourselves
on that building. I was proactive enough to do it. I was proactive
enough to attend the meeting with the historic renovator with Ron
White, Al Yano, and Tom Avsec.
I searched through the emails by contacting Ron White and the
Clerk of Council looking for invitations. Because it was a long time
ago, apparently they may no longer exist. I have not seen the docu-
mentation that I was looking for.
But, the whole purpose of my discussion last month was being
proactive. We discussed putting the building for sale or lease. And, we
did finally do that in the Public Lands & Buildings meeting when I
had Michael Chesler of the Chesler Group attend the meeting.
I am not in control of his schedule. I can’t tell him when he’s going
to come and talk to Council. We were fortunate enough to have him
come to that meeting when we finally reached a consensus that we
would start to market that building. We were lucky enough to have
him share his knowledge of historic structures and the condition of
that building with us.
Jim, these are Council Meetings. We’re here to discuss City business. We’re not here to pick through trivial information. I hope that
in the future you’ll be more professional, and that we cannot waste
Council’s time, and the residents’ time on these sorts of issues.
Councilperson Piteo responded, in response, thank you. I’ll take
that into consideration. I would like you to be a little bit more prepared, and quit wasting our time every month. When you stop yours,
I’ll stop mine.
RILEY – STREETS & SIDEWALKS COMMITTEE
Councilperson Riley stated, I’d like to wish everyone a Happy New
Year, and say to my colleagues on Council, let’s begin this New Year
on the right foot, and stop the bickering. Let’s get down to City business, move forward, and do the job we were elected to do.
I will support the school levy. I know that times are tough for
people. The schools have only one way to obtain money. They have
to go to the residents for a levy vote. I am aware that a lot of residents
are unhappy with that. But if you’re not happy, please don’t hurt the
local children, or pick on the teachers or administration. Contact
Columbus, because that’s where the changes need to be made in the
way schools are funded.
I’m paying a little more attention now to the cost of education,
because my daughter is a senior at the high school, and she’s looking
at colleges. Dr. Termini at the high school said to me, a lot of parents
don’t worry about the 12-year cost. They worry about the 4-year cost
of college. It really made me stop and think. We’re talking about a few
dollars a month to help our students.
I look at the education that my four children have received in our
district. That education has formed them into the fine children that
they are. College will help them prepare for their professional life, but
I think the City of Independence schools have prepared them for their
entire life – professionally, relationship-wise, and family-wise. So, I
would like to say to the teachers and administration, you’re doing a
great job. They have received an excellent rating. What more can we
ask for from our school system than an excellent rating?
If you have questions on the issue, ask. The School Board and
administration put together an independent financial team that audits
what the school does. Ask these people the questions you are looking
for answers to, and what the funding mechanisms are.
As Councilperson Crooks mentioned, schools are mandated to do
certain things by the State. So, to punish the children with a no vote,
only hurts them today, and the City of Independence in the future.
TOGLIATTI – COMMUNITY SERVICES
Vice Mayor Togliatti stated, I would like to wish everyone a Happy
and Healthy New Year, and hope that 2011 is a prosperous and joyous
year for everyone.
As Councilperson Wisnieski stated, today we are renewing our
City’s contract with Phillips Lifeline for the personal emergency response system services for our seniors and disabled residents.
For those of you who are not familiar with this program, you may
be familiar with the “I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up” advertisements.
This program can literally be a lifesaver for older adults living alone.
Accidents can happen at any time. But, with these units, help is available at the touch of a button.
The fact that this is a great program cannot be denied. But what
makes it even better for seniors in Independence, is the cost of our
program - $8.00 per month. This is possible because of a $10,000 annual contribution toward the program from the Cleveland Clinic, and
participation from the City, itself.
If a senior were to get these services on their own, outside of our
program, or in another city, they would likely pay $30 to $35 per
month, almost four times what they are paying here in Independence.
This is a significant savings for older adults on a fixed income. It is
opportunities such as these that help to make Independence the great
place that it is.
On the same note of making Independence a great place to live,
the School Board has a levy on the ballot for the February 8 election.
I encourage everyone to educate themselves on the issue, and understand the importance of a quality school district to our community.
Having been a member of the School Board’s Strategic Planning
Committee, I am very familiar with current financial difficulties and
changes that have been made to adjust to these difficulties. I also realize that school funding and mandates need to be addressed at a level
much higher than Independence City Council. However, it is imperative that we, as a community, understand the important role our
schools play in our property values, children’s futures, and the future
direction of the City as a whole.
Finally, I’d like to send my condolences to the Kohut, Kostura,
Payor, Perch, Sandes, Salupo and VanCure families.
Mayor, as Safety Director, and both of the safety forces, to re-review
and ensure that all measures are put in place to protect us, as elected
officials, as well as our residents, to prevent, as much as possible, these
types of circumstances in our City.
On another note, most residents have also witnessed, in person,
or via the City newsletter, that we, as elected officials, engage in many
healthy and spirited debates. Having said that, I would ask that all
of us, as elected officials, take a step back and really analyze this New
Year how you participate in the democratic process, and then vow not
to participate in this petty politics. With this New Year, let’s do better
for our residents. We are truly blessed in this City, and our struggles
and obstacles are small in comparison to other communities.
WISNIESKI – SAFETY/RULES & ORDINANCES
COMMITTEE
ORDINANCE 2011-03 An Ordinance amending certain provisions of Chapter 1380 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of
Independence relating to controlling construction site soil erosion,
sediment and other wastes and storm water runoff and declaring
an emergency. (Amending Chapter 1380 relative to controlling
construction site erosion, sediment and other wastes.) Placed on
First Reading without objection and referred to the Utilities &
Sewers Committee.
Chairperson Wisnieski stated, the Safety Committee has two
pieces of legislation on tonight’s agenda.
The first is Resolution 2011-09, entering into an agreement
with Phillips Lifeline for remote resident monitoring. This program
began in April of 2000 as Health Watch. The City partnered with the
Cleveland Clinic. Their participation is contributing $10,000 annually, which is designed to offset what the residents will pay for the use
of the personal response system equipment and/or the monitoring
service.
Thanks go to Chief Nelson for successfully negotiating this contract. He managed to cut down a substantial increase to the residents
down, to $6 annually. The price has not increased in over four years.
We have approximately 150 residents that utilize these services.
Should you like more information, please contact me at the Council
Office.
The second piece of legislation is Resolution 2011-12, the
purchase of radio equipment from the State Cooperative Purchasing
Program for the safety forces, in an amount not to exceed $82,980.90,
with installation not to exceed $7,500.
This equipment will begin the first of several steps needed to replace the City’s radio backbone to become compliant with impending
narrow banding requirements for 2013.
As follow up to the moment of silence for the victims in the
Arizona shooting, I want to mention that President Obama asked for
a moment of silence this week for the victims in Arizona. He said in a
proclamation, it will be a time for us to come together as a nation in
prayer and reflection, keeping the victims and their families close to
their hearts.
All of us, as elected officials, have had residents or people that
disagree with either our methodology or the decisions we make, in
general. As Chairperson of the Safety Committee, I will be asking the
LEGISLATION
FIRST READING
ORDINANCE 2011-01 An Ordinance extending the temporary
moratorium on the issuance of permits allowing the operation of
internet cafes within the boundary of the City of Independence for
an additional 180 days, from the date of February 14, 2011 and
declaring an emergency. Enacted as amended 7 yes/0 no.
ORDINANCE 2011-02 An Ordinance amending Ordinance No.
2002-17 relating to the “Confidential Investigation Fund” Account in the Police Department and declaring an emergency. (Any
amounts transferred to the Confidential Investigation Fund shall
be appropriated from the Drug Offenses Trust Fund or the Law
Enforcement Trust Fund.) Enacted as amended 7 yes/0 no.
ORDINANCE 2011-04 An Ordinance amending certain provisions
of Chapter 1381 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Independence relating to controlling post-construction water quality
runoff and declaring an emergency. Placed on First Reading without objection and referred to the Utilities & Sewers Committee.
RESOLUTION 2011-01 A Resolution authorizing the hiring of
Careworks Consultants Inc. for professional services to represent the
City in matters with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation
and in administrative actions before the Ohio Industrial Commission and declaring an emergency. (In an amount not to exceed
$10,600.) Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-02 A Resolution requesting the County Auditor to advance taxes from the proceeds of tax levies pursuant to
Ohio Revised Code Sections 321.23 and 321.34 and declaring an
emergency. (Requesting advance payments of tax funds.) Adopted
7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-03 A Resolution authorizing the expenditure
of funds to the City’s Planner for various professional City planning
services and declaring an emergency. (In an amount not to exceed
$68,500.) Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-04 A Resolution honoring the Independence
High School Blue Devils Boys Cross Country Team OHSAA Boys
Division III 2010 State Champions. Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-05 A Resolution authorizing the renewal of the
independent contractor agreement with David Lynch to perform
electrical inspections for 2011 and declaring an emergency. ($50 per
inspection, total not to exceed $15,000.) Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-06 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor to
enter into a lease agreement with Independence Cooperative Nursery School for the building located at 7121 Valleyview Drive and
declaring an emergency. (Lease term September 1, 2011 thru May
31, 2012.) Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-07 A Resolution granting the Residence Inn
by Marriott a temporary accessory use permit in a U-6A District
for the property located at 5101 West Creek Road and declaring
an emergency. (For MetroHealth regarding sleep study testing.)
Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-08 A Resolution granting Crossfit Independence an accessory use permit in a U-6 District for the property
located at 5572 Brecksville Road and declaring an emergency.
Adopted 5 yes/0 no/2 abstain (C,N).
RESOLUTION 2011-09 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor to
enter into an agreement with Philips Lifeline, Inc. for remote monitoring services and declaring an emergency. Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-10 A Resolution authorizing Change Order
No. 2 to the 2010 Road Maintenance and repair contract with
Specialized Construction, Inc. and declaring an emergency. (In
the amount of $68,734, for a total contract amount not to exceed
$237,671.60.) (Note, a request has been submitted to the City of
Cleveland Division of Water for reimbursement.) Adopted 7 yes/0
no.
RESOLUTION 2011-11 A Resolution authorizing the purchase
of a John Deere HPX Gator 4X4 for the Recreation Department
through the State Cooperative Purchasing Program and declaring an
emergency. (In an amount not to exceed $8,213.45.) Adopted as
amended 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-12 A Resolution authorizing the purchase
of radio equipment through the State Cooperative Purchasing
Program and installation services for the new radio equipment and
declaring an emergency. (Equipment for the safety forces not to
exceed $82,980.90; installation not to exceed $7,500.) Adopted 7
yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-13 A Resolution supporting Issue 2 regarding
the Independence Local School District’s proposed operating and
renewal levy and declaring an emergency. Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-14 A Resolution authorizing payment to
EnviroServe for underground storage tank removal services on City
owned property and declaring an emergency. (Payment of $7,500
for removal of an underground storage tank.). Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
There being no further business to discuss, the Regular Council Meeting
was adjourned at 8:12 p.m.
Minutes of the Council Meeting(s) are unapproved at the time of this
publication and have been condensed. These minutes will be available in
their entirety at the Clerk of Council’s Office after they have been approved.
PLANNING COMMISSION
JANUARY 4, 2011
6400 Rockside Road – Proposed change of use from U-5 to include a
U-3 to permit a college/educational use of building. A Public Hearing
was held and closed; to return to the February meeting.
6212 Chestnut Road, PPN 562-23-010 & 562-23-020, Frederick Haberek – The request for approval of a consolidation of PPN
562-23-020 with PPN562-23-010, both owned by the applicant, was
tabled.
5101 West Creek Road, Residence Inn by Marriott – The request
for a renewal of the sleep study testing done by MetroHealth System/
Department of Medicine using 2 two-bedroom suites per night for the
calendar year 2011 was recommended to Council for approval.
5572 Brecksville Road, Crossfit Independence – The request for
a use exception to locate a fitness center in a U-6 zoning district was
recommended to Council for approval.
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
December 16, 2010
6313 Pleasant Valley Road, John Oravec – Granted a variance of 2’
for the height of a playhouse located on the property (14’ requested,
12’ required).
5001 Cypress Point, Sublot 57, PPN 563-01-036, Perry Homes –
The request for a variance of 60’ for a wetland setback to allow the lot
to be buildable (15’ requested, 75’ required) was tabled.
4927 Bartlett Cove, Sublot 64A, PPN 563-01-043, Perry Homes –
The request for a variance of 60’ for a wetland setback to allow the lot
to be buildable (15’ requested, 75’ required) was tabled.
4919 Bartlett Cove, Sublot 65A, PPN 563-01-044, Perry Homes –
The request for a variance of 60’ for a wetland setback to allow the lot
to be buildable (15’ requested, 75’ required) was tabled.
6658 Great Oaks Parkway, Sublot 25, PPN 562-36-030, Perry
Homes – The request for a variance of 49’ for a wetland setback to
allow the lot to be buildable (26’ requested, 75’ required) was tabled.
4959 Cypress Point, Sublot 58, PPN 563-01-038, Perry Homes –
The requests for the following variances to allow the lot to be buildable were tabled: A variance of 60’ for the western half of the lot for
a wetland setback (15’ requested, 75’ required); a variance of 50’ for
the eastern half of the lot for a wetland setback (25’ requested, 75’
required); and a variance of 10’ for the western half of the lot for a
riparian setback (15’ requested, 25’ required).
4952 Cypress Point, Sublot 59, PPN 563-01-037, Perry Homes –
The requests for the following variances to allow the lot to be buildable were tabled: A variance of 73’ for a wetland setback (2’ requested,
75’ required); a variance of 20’ for a riparian setback (5’ requested, 25’
required); and a variance of 5’ from the rear yard (30’ proposed, 35’
shown on the approved plat).
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SAVE THE DATE FEBRUARY 2011
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1
Planning Commission
Meeting 7:00 p.m.
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2
Ground Hog Day
Architectural
Board of Review
Meeting 8:30 a.m.
City Annex
Special Election
Mayor’s Polls Open 6:30 a.m. to
Listening Night
7:30 p.m.
5:00–6:00 p.m.
Senior Advisory Council
Meeting 11:00 a.m.
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Deadline for
February 16
Architectural Board
of Review Meeting
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Deadline for the
February 17 Zoning
Board of Appeals
Meeting
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5
Lincoln's
Birthday
City Council Meeting
7:00 p.m.
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21Presidents'
22
Day
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Valentine's Day
Washington's Birthday
City Hall
Closed-Garbage
will be picked up
tomorrow
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Tropical Beach Blast
Noon to 4 p.m.
Civic Center
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28
Deadline for the
February 1 Planning
Commission Meeting
7:00 p.m., City Hall
Architectural
Board of Review
Meeting 8:30 a.m.
City Annex
Deadline for
the March 2
Architectural Board
of Review Meeting
Zoning Board of
Appeals Meeting
7:00 p.m., City Hall
Council Workshop TBA
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