Kirtland Chronicle 10-6-23

Kirtland PTA Candidates’ Night Oct. 18

Submitted

The Kirtland PTA and the Lake County League of Women voters will host their annual Candidates’ Night at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18. It will be held at Kirtland Elementary School 9140 Chillicothe Road, in Hornet Hall Auditorium.

The local candidates this year are running for the offices of: Willoughby Municipal Court Judge; City of Kirtland Mayor; City of Kirtland Council Wards 1, 2, 3 and 4; and Kirtland Schools Board of Education. Sixteen (16) candidates have confirmed their attendance.

Also discussed will be Issue 1 and Issue 2 on the Nov. 7 ballot.

The event will be live at https:// www.kirtlandschools.org/streaming.aspx

Those attending Candidates’ Night will be able to submit questions on 3x5 notecards. There will be a panel of three PTA members to filter questions to the LCLWV moderators.

For questions about the event, call Kathy at (216) 789-2764.

Key Club Continues to Breed Student-Leaders

by donna RobinSon editoR@kaRlovecmedia.com

Key Club, an international ser vice organization for high school students, has a strong foothold in Kirtland, with many students re turning each year to be a part of its mission.

For these Kirtland High School students, the club — which falls under the umbrella of Kiwan is International — it not just about having a passion for community service, it’s also about leadership, tutoring and advocacy for change.

“In my first year, I learned that this organization had so much more to offer our students,” said Meriah Duncan, an upper-class English teacher and KHS Key Club advisor. “I am so proud to an nounce that three of our current members have been appointed and installed as lieutenant governors for the Ohio chapter of Key Club — junior Clare Davidson for Division 22 (the home division); junior Kiera Fortney for Division 13, and junior Marin Haupt for Division 15. This may be the first time any Kirtland student, let alone three, have ever held a state leadership position.”

On a local level, the club, which

land Area Service Coun cil to run an annual canned food drive before the holidays, raising awareness for mental health by fundraising for and participating in NAMIWalks Lake County; volunteering with the local Kirtland Kiwanis Club at events such as the Maple Fest Pancake Breakfast and Strawberry Festival; or running a pop-up thrift shop to promote sustainability on Earth Day.

consists of Kirtland, West Geauga, North, Lakeside, Geneva, Cardinal and Madison High Schools.

“Key Club has greatly benefited my sense of responsibility, time management and most importantly, my sense of self,” she said. “Knowing that I am a part of an organization that runs via the compassion and unselfishness of people contributes to an appreciation

See Key • Page 6

KES Recognizes, Honors First-Responders with Annual Parade

In honor of Patriot Day, the staff and students at Kirtland Elementary School (KES) honored all the community’s first-responders in an outdoor parade Sept. 11.

Officers in their vehicles drove through the school parking lot as students lined the driveways wearing red, white and blue, cheering, clapping, and waving American flags to show appreciation for all they do.

First-responders from Kirtland Police Department, Kirtland Fire Department, Lakeland Police Department, Waite Hill Police Department and Kirtland Hills Police “Not to be lost in the tragedy was the heroism and selfless acts of so

many from the passengers on Flight ington D.C. and New York City. While remembering the events of 9/11, I would like to publicly thank all the emergency forces that serve the Kirtland Local Schools — Kirtland Police Department, Kirtland

Fire Department, Kirtland Hills Police Department and the Waite Hill Police Department for their tireless dedication to keeping us safe.”

He added, “September 11th is a day we will not forget and provides a day of reflection and thankfulness for those that risk their lives daily to protect ours.”

KES Principal Katy Nagaj said staff and students were honored to show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of local heroes.

“(City of Kirtland Police) Chief McCallister and (Fire) Chief Hutton have been excitedly receptive and extremely helpful in the planning

See Parade • Page 5

Davidson

Haupt

Staff RepoRt

The Kirtland Public Library is located at 9267 Chillicothe Road. Hours are Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about any of these programs or to register, please call the library at 440-256-7323 or visit www.kirtland.lib.oh.us.

October Adult Events

Color Me Calm Club

Oct. 13 • 2:30 p.m.

Come relax and color with us at the library. We will supply the coloring pages, pencils and music. Feel free to bring your own supplies if you like. Just sign up and show up. Registration requested.

No Pressure Book Discussion

Oct. 23 • 1:30 p.m.

Join us in the Community Room to talk about books; any books you’ve read recently that you want to recommend to others.

Kirtland Public Library

Cookbook Club

Oct. 24 • 6 p.m.

Fall foods and spices are the theme for this month. Anything goes. Sign up and show up with something to share with the group. Registration requested so you have the pertinent information.

Special Adult Programs

Medicare Checkup

Oct. 17 • 6 p.m.

Understanding your Medicare options can be overwhelming. Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment Period begins on Oct. 15 and ends Dec. 7. This is your opportunity to learn how to review your Medicare coverage and make changes for the upcoming year. Hosted by the Lake County Council on Aging. Registration requested due to limited space.

Author, Claire McMillan

Oct. 25 • 7 p.m.

Local author Claire McMillan will discuss her story and her newest book, “Alchemy of a Blackbird.” Registration required, as space is limited. This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Kirtland Public Library.

True Crime Trivia

Oct. 30 • 6 p.m.

Love a mystery? Think you know something about mayhem and murder? Test your knowledge of true crime with us. Meet in the Deloris C. Parsons Community Room at the library.

October Youth Programs

LEGO Club

Oct. 7 • 10:30 a.m.

Families, spend an hour creating with the library’s LEGO brick collection. Once you have completed your creation with our bricks, we will place it in our display case for all to see. Please register.

Stories and More: Apples!

Oct. 13 • 10:30 a.m.

Stories and activities all based on the same theme. Families with kids age 5 and under listen to stories and explore activities about apples. Taste different apples, make patterns and more. Please register for this event.

Teen Halloween Treats

Oct. 17 • 3 p.m.

Youth in sixth grade and up, create some treats for the upcoming holiday. Treats might include Graveyard Pudding, Citrus Jack-OLanterns and Spooky Eye Rollups. You’ll be making the treats and eating them, too. Then take the recipes with you so that you can make them for your family and friends at home. Please register for this event.

Getting to Know Bats

Oct. 19 • 6 p.m.

Did you know that October is National Bat Appreciation Month? Families, come

learn about these fascinating creatures. Explore activities and crafts. Please register for this event.

Halloween Free-For-All

Oct. 23 • 4 p.m.

Kids, bring your favorite adults to join in three different activities. Tickle the funny bone with Halloween jokes (bring one of your own or read one of the library’s), create a math equation for the Halloween Number of the Day (31), and, because Halloween must include candy, play a Halloween pass-the-candy game. This program is best for grades second through fifth. Please register every adult and every child attending.

Kirtland Trunk or Treat

Oct. 25 • 6-8 p.m.

The library is hosting one of the stops for The City of Kirtland’s Trunk or Treat. We can’t wait to see your costumes!

Daily Dose of Reading

Oct. 28 • 10:30 a.m.

Daily Dose of Reading’s (DDR) “Play and Learn” is an intensive early childhood literacy program aligned with Ohio Early Education Standards. Children ages 3-6 receive a concentrated, theme-specific session of pre-literacy skills training through reading, singing, activities and play. Children receive a new book to take home, and parents are provided with at-home literacy activities. Please register online.

Weekly Events

Crazy 8s Club

Oct. 3, 10, 16 & 24 • 4 p.m.

Bedtime Math’s Crazy 8s Club is not your usual math club. Kids ages kindergarten through second grade will make mischief and memories with activities like Bouncy Dice Explosion, Spy Training, Crazy Card Club, Funny Money, and more. Participants will get to take home cool prizes. Please register for club sessions.

Lapsit

Tuesdays • 10 a.m.

Bounces, rhymes, one book, scarves and shakers, geared for families with children under the age of 3. (Note: No Lapsit on Nov. 7.)

Storytime

Wednesdays • 10 a.m.

Enjoy great books, rhymes, songs, and surprises with your child. This storytime is geared for families with children age 5 and under.

Coffee with Council

Coffee with Council is Saturday, Oct. 21 from 10-11 a.m.,at Kirtland City Hall. For more information,contact Joe Smolic at 440-487-8984 or JSmolic@kirtlandohio.com

A Note from the Mayor

With just two months left in my first term as Kirtland’s Mayor, I think it’s important to reflect on the things we’ve been able to accomplish together and to look forward to a great future for Kirtland. Every day, I become more impressed by the spirit of the Kirtland community, and the intelligence of our voters to sift through some of the noise that comes during election season.

Two months into office, I faced my first budget as mayor, and it became clearer than ever that we had much work to do. In April of that year, we began the tough conversations that led to outsourcing dispatch and reduc ing the number of full-time staff in the Service Department. In the case of dispatch, we were able to reduce our expenditure by more than $300,000 annually, and with the reduction in Service De partment employees we saved over $230,000 in wages my first two years in office.

Good government does not happen only by identifying opportunities for savings but also by enhancing operations to run efficiently and effectively for the taxpayers we serve. That is why I found it imperative to appoint hard working, ethical and knowledgeable folks to lead our Service, Legal, and Engineering Departments. In addition, our new Senior Director has helped turn our Senior Center into the envy of many Lake County senior communities. We also appointed a new police chief that honorably leads the great men and women of the Kirtland Police Department. And finally, we continue to rely on a seasoned and one of the most respected Fire Chiefs in Lake County

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process,” she said. “The students worked in their classrooms writing thank you letters and drawing pictures to show appreciation for all that our First Responders do to keep us safe.”

One fourth grader wrote, “After the parade, several students met with the officers to give the letters and pictures to them.”

In addition to the parade, KES also welcomed members of the Kirtland Police Department to have lunch with students.

“We have established a wonderful relationship with the Kirtland Police Department. It

to keep our community safe.

Professionals leading our departments have led to notable accomplishments both in practice and in the spirit of good government. We now professionally engineer roads and have implemented good maintenance strategies that will lead to roads lasting for decades rather than a few years.

Our dispatch savings has made it possible to hire three more fulltime police officers, and under the leadership of a new Chief, our patrol is keeping our main roads and neighborhoods safer than ever. In 2022, the Fire Chief and I worked together on a plan that enabled us to put two more full time firefighters on staff without costing taxpayers more. Adding outdoor pickle ball courts for our community and seniors, and by working with volunteers to construct a new playground put an exclamation mark on our increasingly vibrant Community Center.

But as I said, we have more work to do and if re-elected, we will build on the real progress we’ve made. I look forward to our next budget process where we will once again challenge ourselves to squeeze and save where we can, while continuing to direct the increasing work from home income tax dollars to our roads. We will keep investing in our people and with valuable community input, evaluate ways to increase business revenue while maintaining our small-town appeal.

It has been my pleasure to serve our residents and am hopeful we can continue our work over the next four years.

is important for our Hornets to know and recognize the first responders who work in our communities each day so that when they see them outside of school they feel comfortable interacting with them,” said Nagaj. “Officers visit on a regular basis, walking the halls, reading stories in classrooms, and participating in events such as the Ice Cream Social and Walk-a-Thon. In addition, our School Resource Officer, Officer Baukman, serves as a daily support to all our Kirtland students. You may see him greeting students off the bus, visiting the playground, assisting with safety drills, and any other needs that he is called to. We are grateful for his presence throughout the district support every day.”

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Mayor Kevin Potter

Four Compete for 2 Seats on the Kirtland BOE

Four candidates are vying for two seats on the Kirtland Schools Board of Education in the November election: Sheila Dikowicz, Aaron Godwin, Josh Haladyna and Matthew Whittaker. Haladyna did not respond to the Kirtland Chronicle election questionnaire.

Sheila E. Dikowicz Age 54 Manager Transportation Director/ Orange City School District www.dikowiczforboe.com/

QWhat motivated you to run for your local school board?

AI often give graduates a copy of Theodore Roosevelt’s “Man In the Arena” speech, my favorite inspiration. The quote is a call to embrace challenges, the lessons learned through failure, and the importance of productive engagement in the community. Childhood only happens once, it is our responsibility to ensure our children are prepared for their future. As a parent, a former employee, and a community member I

am keenly aware of the significance of our schools. Quite simply, there is no greater priority to me than the well-being and education of our children. I am dedicated to providing all students with a safe environment and the resources and support to become empowered citizens. I am committed to increasing transparency and trust within the community. I am prepared for this challenge.

QDoes your district align with your vision of education for the community? If yes, in what ways? If no, what changes should be made?

AA board should align the district’s vision of education with the stakeholders and the community’s high expectations, not a personal agenda. Board decisions should support all student’s academic needs and well-being, ensuring resources are available to maximize the impact on student learning while maintaining fiscal responsibility. To achieve this commitment, the school district should regularly assess and update its curriculum, ensuring it aligns with the evolving needs and interests of the student body. Collaboration with teachers, parents, and students will provide valuable insights into the types of classes and extracurriculars that should be made available. This would include exploring additional outside options for courses and vocational programs.

QWhat are the major challenges facing your district, and how can the board address them?

AFinding and retaining staff is a challenge. The district needs to assess the

current compensation package offered to staff and compare if competitive with neighboring districts. The board should ensure the district has resources to hire and retain high-quality staff to meet the community’s high expectations for academic excellence. This includes allocating sufficient funds for recruitment, professional development, and ongoing staff support. Communication is a challenge. The district needs to assess and explore how best to communicate with stakeholders, gathering feedback to gain an understanding of their communication needs and preferences. Effective communication fosters transparency, builds trust, and involves stakeholders in decision-making for a strong cohesive educational community.

QWhatdo you feel are the board’s primary roles and responsibilities? Do you feel your local school board has, until now, fulfilled those roles? If yes, how? If no, where have they fallen short?

ABoard members are responsible for developing and implementing policies, governance, and oversight of the district. They ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, make budgetary decisions, approve curriculum changes, and monitor the progress of the district toward its objectives. They hire and evaluate the superintendent, serve as a liaison between the district and the community it serves, and advocate for the needs and interests of students. They make decisions that impact various aspects of the school district, such as budget allocations, curriculum changes, and hiring personnel. They must weigh different perspectives, and

Key from page 1

for all of the good I can see in people during my everyday life.”

Her mother, Gina Davidson, said their family is very proud of Clare for her work ethic and always wanting to help others.

“She has maintained a job … sometimes two at a time, is involved with soccer and golf in the fall, while maintaining over a 4.1 GPA,” she added.

Kiera, also in her second year with the club, said she applied for the position of lieutenant governor in May.

“I have learned a lot through Key Club, especially throughout my time as a lieutenant governor, about the best ways to communicate and some of the most effective service projects,” she said. “The community at Kirtland has been so helpful and encouraging throughout my taking on a more significant role, especially my advisor, Mrs. Duncan, who encouraged me to apply. Overall, I’ve

make informed choices that align with the district’s goals and values. I recognize and appreciate the genuine efforts put forth by the current board.

QTheOhio Department of Education recently made changes to its statewide report cards to better reflect district performance. What metrics should a local board of education use to determine whether its goals are being met and its policies successfully carried out?

AWhenevaluating student achievement, it is essential to consider a range of factors, including creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving ability. Student’s grade point average, grade level readiness, attendance, and engagement are additional crucial metrics the district could use to evaluate district performance. Staff and teacher retention rates, school climate, and morale are useful metrics for ensuring a conducive learning environment for students. A community feedback and involvement metric can provide valuable insights for the board to make decisions that align with community needs. A financial metric, monitoring budget allocation and financial stability. Monitoring of these metrics would allow the board to identify areas of success and areas in need of improvement.

QWhat are the expectations for public behavior for members of the board of education?

ASchool board members should demonstrate respect and courtesy towards all individuals

See Board • Page 7

loved my Key Club experience and would encourage anyone who is interested in community service to join.”

When Marin joined key club during her sophomore year, she was not expecting to become as involved as she did.

“But the community and support around it is so amazing,” she said. “The service side of Key Club not only benefits my community and other communities, but being able to make an impact is such a rewarding and valuable experience. I’ve learned so much about leadership, commitment and communication from being a lieutenant governor. The hard work is definitely worth it.”

One of Marin’s favorite Key Club events this year was volunteering to help Kiwanis pack backpacks and write letters for foster kids who moved into homes.

She said helping someone who might need help and be around her age was powerful.

“Key Club has had such a positive impact on me,” she said. “Being able to help not just Kirtland, but other schools across Ohio is an opportunity that I would not have had without Key Club.

involved in the school community. This includes treating staff, administrators, students, parents, and community members with dignity and fair ness. They should actively listen to different per spectives, engage in constructive dialogue, and avoid engaging in personal attacks or disrespect ful behavior during meetings or public forums. School board members should be accessible, at tentive, and responsive to the concerns and needs of the community. They should actively engage with stakeholders, attend community events, and maintain open lines of communication. By being approachable and responsive board members can strengthen relationships within the community and cultivate a spirit of collaboration.

QAfter reviewing the current and/ or proposed budget for your school district, where would you look to make budget cuts if elected? What areas would you not consider cutting?

AI regularly attend Kirtland Board of Education meetings, as well as Finance Committee meetings in order to gain a deeper understanding of the district’s financial decisions. It is crucial that the budget aligns with our community’s vision for the academic accomplishments and success of our students, and I am committed to fiscal spending that benefits all student’s educational objectives. Although I do have ideas for cost-saving measures, I feel providing suggestions for budget cuts at this time without possessing all the essential information would result in a hasty and ill-informed viewpoint.

Qhas

adequate security protocols in place? If not, where could they improve?

AAlthough Kirtland Schools continues to update security protocols, in today’s rapidly changing world, the safety and security of our schools have become even more critical. As technology advances, new threats and challenges emerge, making it imperative for us to consistently evaluate and adapt our safety measures. It is essential to foster a culture of safety within our schools, educating students, teachers, and parents about the latest safety protocols and procedures can sig-

the school environment. Encouraging open communication between all stakeholders and establishing reporting mechanisms for potential threats or concerns can help identify and address issues before they escalate.

QDo you believe school districts have a responsibility to provide a mental health/social emotional learning curriculum? Why or why not?

AYes, I believe school districts have a responsibility to provide a mental health/ social-emotional learning component to the curriculum. The well-being of students goes

benefit by learning skills to manage stress, develop healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions in a safe and supportive environment. Mental health/social-emotional learning requires resources, training, and support for educators and staff, including access to qualified mental health professionals who can provide guidance, counseling, and interventions when needed. Collaboration with parents, community organizations, and mental health professionals is crucial in creating a comprehensive support system that extends beyond the classroom.

See Education • Page 9

Aaron Godwin Age 54

Owner - The Renaissance Group

QWhat motivated you to run for your local school board?

AI am not political, but I strive to support my community and have always had an interest in education. With all the fiscal challenges, risks and craziness out there, I think it is important to have objective representatives for our children and community in our schools. I am about: kids first, parents second and all the craziness way down the list. I believe every student should have equal opportunities and schools need to be safe inclusive spaces for students to have those opportunities, explore, experience and grow. They should be aware of the many views in the world, but not be hindered by them. In general, I would define myself as fiscally conservative, but socially aware. I think Kirtland is facing unique challenges. I have the experience and qualifications to help.

QDoes your district align with your vision of education for the community? If yes, in what ways? If no, what changes should be made?

AKirtland clearly stands for quality education. The board and other leadership also seem very aware of the budgetary stresses on our tax payers. I would love to see more experiential interdisciplinary education and education even further aligned with the workplace. The challenge is to accomplish this

while meeting the state mandates and within the existing time and budgetary resources. I would like to explore further partnerships with other educational institutions and entities to further share resources and expand opportunities.

QWhat are the major challenges facing your district, and how can the board address them?

ABudgets: As a Kirtland taxpayer, I certainly do not want more taxes, but I also see the needs across our district. We need to find solutions without crippling our community. Managing budgets and striking balances is truly one of a board member’s loveless tasks. While it will be impossible to make everyone happy, through fiscal responsibility and objective compromise we can reach a balance that will allow our students to achieve while protecting our taxpayers. Safety and Chaos: While no board member can guarantee safety or isolate our communities from all chaos, I do have the broad experience and objective demeanor to work ahead of these challenges and face them head-on when they occur. Continued Excellence: We are not the teachers, but we can facilitate an environment of excellence.

QWhat do you feel are the board’s primary roles and responsibilities? Do you feel your local school board has, until now, fulfilled those roles? If yes, how? If no, where have they fallen short?

ASee above. While I feel the board has done a good job, just like our students, we must strive for continued improvement. On the budget side, we need to forecast better from facilities to equipment to staffing. We also need to continue to grow our partnerships to reduce budgetary stresses. On

the safety front, we need to continually and formally review, adapt and improve our safety plans. On the chaos front, Kirtland needs to govern Kirtland. We need to keep outside agendas out. On the excellence front, we need to continue to support and attract the best. We also need to continue to leverage and enhance our own excellence through further collaborations with other entities and institutions.

QTheOhio Department of Education recently made changes to its statewide report cards to better reflect district performance. What metrics should a local board of education use to determine whether its goals are being met and its policies successfully carried out?

AYearover year gains for individual students, not just aggregates. Comparative district standings. Attendance rates. Graduation rates. Pecentage of students achieving their post graduation goals; first choice acceptance rates, secondary education graduation rates and achievements and general employment. Diversity of options for students to achieve their goals: vocational, co-op, college, internship collaboration and partnerships. Balanced budgets, fiscal responsibility, accurate forecasts and funds budgeting for future needs. Community engagement, support and pride in our district.

QWhat are the expectations for public behavior for members of the board of education?

ABoard members should objectively represent the students, parents and community. They should not be strictly tied to their own political or other ideologies. They certainly should not put outside political in-

terests ahead of student interests. Decisions should be based on a thorough review of all points of view and focused on the long-term best interests of the students and community. All of this should be done in a professional respectful manner. As we represent our schools and community, our outside lives should also demonstrate these qualities.

QAfterreviewing the current and/ or proposed budget for your school district, where would you look to make budget cuts if elected? What areas would you not consider cutting?

AFiscal responsibility is far more nuanced than continually cutting budgets or maintaining the status quo. It is also not about just raising budgets. It is about thoroughly evaluating where we are, where we want to go, what has worked, what needs improvement, all the resources available, existing and future contract requirements, the ever-changing state and federal resources and requirements, our unique tax and funding positions, partnership opportunities, forecasting, workforce availability and quality, legal requirements and a whole lot more. I have already started to attend meetings and to have conversations with the various stakeholders. It would be irresponsible to make blanket statements or mandates at this point.

QDo you feel your school district has adequate security protocols in place? If not, where could they improve?

AIn the context of the challenge, I think they have done a good job. This said, we all need to better identify potential threats, active and passive protocols and expand our community partner-

See Schools • Page 10

ships, all while trying to maintain an environment that doesn’t overly distract or stress our students and staff. As with many things that leadership must facilitate, there is no black and white clear path. Solutions need to be balanced and conscious. If we do too much, we will be seen as intrusive, overreaching and budget insensitive until something happens and then we will be seen as incompetent. The best we can do is try to strike a balance. With this in mind, I would support yearly reviews with the stakeholders and security leadership to evaluate and optimize our plan.

QDo you believe school districts have a responsibility to provide a mental health/social emotional learning curriculum? Why or why not?

AThiswould depend on your definition. I believe that schools are avenues forstudent social and emotional growth in partnership with families and communities. I do believe in schools offering inclusive, safe and supportive learning environments. I do believe that this should be facilitated and demonstrated in everything we as the educational community do. I do believe that schools have unique challenges in supporting students in lives that extend beyond the school walls. I believe qualified school counselors are important resources for students

as they strive to define their educational goals and paths, as well deal with the stresses of daily life. I understand that striking a balance between active engagement and the varying views of families and the community is difficult.

Josh

Haladyna

This candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.

Matthew T. Whittaker Age 50 Scientist / G&H

Ohio

QWhat motivated you to run for your local school board?

AI grew up in Kirt land and am a graduate of the class of 1991. I am completing my first term on the school board and have viewed my participation as serving my community. My oldest son graduated from Kirtland earlier this year, and I have 2 children still in the district. I am running again because I have learned a lot over the last 4 years and I believe stability will keep the district on the right track.

QDoes your district align with your vision of education for the community? If yes, in what ways? If no, what changes should be made?

AKirtland is the top rated school district in Lake County and has received the highest rating, 5 stars, from the State of Ohio. Yes, this aligns with my vision for education of our community. Of course, we can do better, and we need to do that as cost effectively as possible.

QWhat are the major challenges facing your district, and how can the board address them?

The major challenge is that our district receives very little money per student from the state and needs to rely much more heavily on residential property taxes than neighboring districts. I believe the board has done an excellent job at controlling costs, largely by supporting shared services with other communities and with regional educational service centers. Shared services allows Kirtland to pay for part time resources, such as our treasurer, that we would otherwise pay full price for and underutilize the resource. The board needs to continue to expand these opportunities for cost savings while still providing required services and resources.

QWhat do you feel are the board’s primary roles and responsibilities? Do you feel your local school board has, until now, fulfilled those roles? If yes, how? If no, where have they fallen short?

ATheboard’s primary roles and responsibilities are to hire the superintendent and the treasurer, to set policy, and to set the budget. The board’s role with the superintendent is then oversight including setting goals, supporting the goals through policy, and holding them accountable. Most policy is strictly controlled by state and federal law, so the board largely just updates policy to maintain compliance with applicable laws. The budget for at least the last 4 years has had favorable results vs forecast and the board has managed to push the requirement for new tax levies down the road several years. I believe the board has accomplished its goals over at

least the last 4 years and following the current path continues to move the district in the right direction.

QThe Ohio Department of Education recently made changes to its statewide report cards to better reflect district performance. What metrics should a local board of education use to determine whether its goals are being met and its policies successfully carried out?

AIt is unfortunate that the state continues to completely change the way it rates school districts. These changes make it difficult to trend performance. Additionally, performance ratings are penalized for students that opt out of testing, so that further complicates rankings. There are additional benchmarks available that are much more consistent - including grade level testing from elementary through middle school. In high school, participation and performance in advanced placement tests, and college credit plus classes can also be used as additional metrics.

QWhat are the expectations for public behavior for members of the board of education?

AMy expectation for public behavior is not limited to members of the board of education, administration, teachers, staff, or students. I have the same expectation for all members of society - to represent your yourself and your community positively.

QAfter reviewing the current and/ or proposed budget for your school district, where would you look to make budget cuts if elected? What areas would you not consider cutting?

AThe Kirtland School District budget is extremely lean. The best way to reduce costs is to continue to develop additional shared services with neighboring districts. The best current opportunity that could make the largest impact is in busing..

QDo you feel your school district has adequate security protocols in place? If not, where could they improve?

AIbelieve our district has adequate security protocols in place. The district has enhanced physical security over the last several years, has a full-time School Resource Officer, and maintains training and communication with local authorities. The close knit community and relationships between the students, teachers, counselors, and administration can also help to identify and deal with issues before they would become a problem.

QDo you believe school districts have a responsibility to provide a mental health/social emotional learning curriculum? Why or why not?

ASchool district has a legal obligation to provide provide social emotional learning curriculum. The standard can be found at the website of the Ohio Department of Education: https://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Learning-in-Ohio/Social-and-Emotional-Learning

Incumbent Potter Faces Two Challengers for Mayor

Three candidates are running for the position of Kirtland City mayor in the November election. They are incumbent Kevin Potter, Douglas Davidson and Kathryn Talty. Read their responses to the Kirtland Chronicle election questionnaire below.

Douglas E.

Davidson

Age 55

Operations Manager, Holcim Inc. DavidsonforMayor.com

QWhatis your el evator pitch for why City of Kirtland voters should choose you as the next may or? Please include bullet points of your major accomplishments as mayor.

ATheanswer is we need to look at reve nue growth through partnerships and private entities, both commercial and residential. Working with others (and protecting the school’s potential tax revenue from new development), my administration established the Community Reinvestment Area ordinance that allows the city to incentivize businesses to grow and make improvements to have those increased revenues. We paved 12.4 miles compared to 8. Built a safe crosswalk for our residents and students. We commissioned the Fiscal Review Task Force, We unleashed Public Works matching funds while improving drainage and green space. We paid off Kirtland City hall.

QHow do you plan to effectively and responsibly address and improve the City of Kirtland’s aging infrastructure?

A Ordinance 18-O-18 established during my tenure as mayor established the method of reviewing road condition, funding methods, and selecting roads for paving. By focusing on building revenues, economic development,and reaching out to the county, state and federal government for the assistance we qualify for we can turn the corner on our current situation.

QDo you support the City of Kirtland’s 10-year road plan? What changes — or different approach — would you make/ propose to the plan?

APaving 2 miles of road on average over four years as the current administration has done, is clearly not going to solve our failing roads. We need new revenue, diligent maintenance, resources and coordination from with county and state partners to get it done. Paving roads incorrectly as with Locust, and then having to pave them a second time correctly is a mistake that we cannot afford to make. During my term we raised the specification for newly installed roads in ordinance, used innovative approved methods to extend the life of older roads like Killdeer and Charlesderry/Glen Park and reduced cash out of pocket by doing in kind work in improved drainage to unleash OPWC funding.

QWould you commit to supporting a dedicated funding referendum for the roads?

AMayor (and later Commissioner) Mark Tyler in his administration worked hard, and with the support of council to propose and bring before the voters a road levy which was passed and put in motion. Councilmen Smolic, Potter and others passed on the opportunity to put a renewal of this levy before

the voters, choosing instead to use the road levy as a political wedge issue. I specify six approaches to building revenue without a road levy that should all be investigated and given the effort necessary to succeed without raising taxes.

QInlight of the current housing and infrastructure challenges, including a lack of senior and affordable housing, what sustainable strategies would you seek to implement to ensure the long-term affordability and desirability of Kirtland as a place to live, work, retire and thrive?

AKirtland has great neighborhoods and accomodations at different price points. While it’s unlikely we could support a Breckenridge Village/Ohio Living size facility we can and should invite and work with private developers on private property for projects of the right scope and scale.

QFrom your perspective, do you believe that the continued growth in the City of Kirtland is ultimately beneficial? If so, how do you plan to manage and maximize its positive impacts? What specific investments and initiatives do you believe are needed to achieve those impacts?

AKirtland is large in land mass, and lot sizes but limited in the number of development opportunities. Part of this limitation on growth is the parks, which we benefit from in many ways from programming to natural beauty. Historic sights are a draw for tourism, but we have not maximized our opportunities to turn that tourism into revenue for the city. We have two areas designated in the Community Reinvestment Area ordinance along Rte 6, and along 306 that make the most sense for beneficial development and improvements.

QHow do you balance maintaining the character of Kirtland with the need for development? What is the character of Kirtland?

AKirtland has established by ordinance a requirement to complete a Comprehensive Plan which contains the guidelines for development documented for our review, use, and modification if needed. The Comprehensive Plan and the Strategic Plan which preceded it, all recognize that green space, good roads, well maintained structures, and public safety are valued by our residents. A vibrant downtown area is also valued. Kirtland’s characteristic’s have always been smaller neighborhoods and businesses with the desire to grow and improve over time. Our parks and historic attractions are a part of our improvement and revenue solutions.

Mayor • Page 14

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QHow would you strategically support the growth, development and sustainability of small, medium and large businesses?

AGovernments encourage growth and revenue by being convenient and efficient to work with. The economy is changing and retail and office space which once dominated, is now replaced by working from home and Amazon Prime. We are clearly not positioned to accommodate the industrial base of Mentor or the entertainment district of Downtown Willoughby. We are however positioned to handle quality small and medium sized businesses that serve our residents and guests.

QWhat do you see as the role and/or function of the mayor in terms of fiscal responsibility and leadership?

AAs mayor I commissioned the Fiscal Review Task Force that looked at all aspects of the City’s operations. I appointed the current Finance Director and Assistant Finance Director who established a new chart of accounts and accounting format to bring maximum clarity to the city’s finances. I also renegotiated the fire contract with Kirtland Hills, Completed a cell tower contract to receive continuing revenues, negotiated fair police, fire and service wage agreements for the employees and the city. We rebuilt a plow truck with a stainless steel dump bed and new cab to extend the life of our asset, engaged in shared tools and equipment with neighboring communities, took advantage of grant opportunities, and invested in LED lighting for city buildings to save money in the long run.

QWhat is your vision for the City of Kirtland in the next 10 years, and what realistic policies do you propose to get us there?

AMy vision for the city in the next 4 years does not include demolishing City Hall, moving the Kirtland Area Veterans Memorial, or taking the library’s front yard to build a new City Hall. It does include building revenue to support the operation of the city, including the dedicated employees who serve residents, and the projects both infrastructure and aesthetic, which make Kirtland an enjoyable place to be.

My vision does include working with proven developers who will invest in the community to bring more employees and guests here, and developers who will provide housing opportunities on a scale compatible with our aesthetic. My vision does include engaging the best efforts of our council and commissions to see the way forward.

QWhat is the most pressing public safety issue facing the city and how would you address it?

AThe well being and protection of residents and property in our community comes down to the recruiting, retention, equipping and leadership of our safety forces. They work the hours and do the calls that most of us would not and they need to be sufficiently compensated for the role. We can and do accept grants for services, but in the end our city budget must provide.

QWho are your top three campaign donors?

AMark Murch, Scott Brown, Marilyn Spease

Kathryn Talty

QWhat is your elevator pitch for why City of Kirt land voters should choose you as the next mayor? Please include bullet points of your major ac complishments as mayor.

AIbelieve it’s time to see a “Future Friendly” city, that is ready to take on new trends of the times. Building, building, building was a financial cure for the 1950’s, but in our highly technological world the present is with the computer and fast, high speed broadband. Attracting start-ups and IT companies is the key to building substantial revenue, not in the hundred thousands, but in the millions of dollars. Coffee houses, fresh fruit and vegetable markets, and local boutique shops with garden walks and bike trails in the city center is a dream I hope will come true.

QHow do you plan to effectively and responsibly address and improve the City of Kirtland’s aging infrastructure?

AOne of our schools is over a hundred years old, and is quite functional. Our town center has a library and a city hall that are looking at a young thirty years old. They are well built of brick and tastefully designed. Repairs can be made to wear and tears for example a new roof, which is reasonable to expect. Repurposing unused space is smart and economical for this city.

QDo you support the City of Kirtland’s 10-year road plan? What changes — or different approach — would you make/ propose to the plan?

AInfrastructure is vitally necessary to have a smooth and functioning city. I believe much time and planning has been spent on plans to improve our roads we use daily for transportation and needs to be respected. My dream would include a bike lane, which could be a reality with an increase in future revenues.

QWould you commit to supporting a dedicated funding referendum for the roads?

AFunds are needed to maintain the city’s infrastructure, especially for road improvements, but always keeping in mind the overall picture when designing a fiscal budget.

QIn light of the current housing and infrastructure challenges, including a lack of senior and affordable housing, what sustainable strategies would you seek to implement to ensure the longterm affordability and desirability of Kirtland as a place to live, work, retire and thrive?

AThemajority of Kirtland’s population experiences affordability and desirability when compared to the national average, but long overlooked is a plan for our senior members with reasonably priced condominiums. They should be practical with single floor level housing with attached garages, providing landscaping and snow removal. At the other end of the spectrum, preventing the brain drain and keeping our young adults in this community is a challenge for many cities. Young adults and young families seem to be attracted to well constructed townhouses with attached garages, featuring a landscape with green spaces, gardens and a playground. These future plans will keep our wisdom, energy, and joyfulness in our city.

QFromyour perspective, do you believe that the continued growth in the City of Kirtland is ultimately beneficial? If so, how do you plan to manage and maximize its positive impacts? What specific investments and initiatives do you believe are needed to achieve those impacts?

AKirtland is on the verge of experiencing a great deal of growth. Planning for the future and passing down a legacy of beauty and fiscal stability should be our goal. I believe it is important to strive to be an ‘Intelligent City.” Initially starting off with grants, then attracting investments from large businesses, for the installation of fiber optics, which supports high bandwidth allowing faster transfer speed of information. This will attract business growth from both national and international communities. Cities that offer broadband capabilities have more than tripled their annual revenue without changing their city landscape.

QHow do you balance maintaining the character of Kirtland with the need for development? What is the character of Kirtland?

APreserving the location of the Kirtland Veterans Memorial, repurposing parts of the city hall, and continuing outdoor concerts at our lovely gazebo is important to strongly maintain. We are a city where many visitors come to experience historical heritage, and so we must be vigilant to protect the charm of our city center and conscientious of new construction that blends with some continuity of design.

QHow would you strategically support the growth, development and sustainability of small, medium and large businesses?

ATo attract businesses of any size, you need to provide a landscape to meet their needs. Since the business community is international, offering high speed broadband, marketing our convenient location to both private and commercial airports, and being economically feasible for development, Kirtland is an ideal city to experience financial expansion.

QWhat do you see as the role and/or function of the mayor in terms of fiscal responsibility and leadership?

AALeading the city of Kirtland through this turning point takes a great deal of creativity and innovation, as well as strategic planning to set common goals for the development of the city over the next five, ten, and twenty years. I have participated in strategic planning for non-profit organizations, and I have served on many boards, which includes city planning. It is important to have a great rapport with others and a vision to see our city evolve successfully and gracefully into the future. Leading our city council and our treasured community is a great gift I would like to be considered for.

QWhat is your vision for the City of Kirtland in the next 10 years, and what realistic policies do you propose to get us there?

AKirtland should strive to be one of the most “Intelligent Cities” in the world as others in Ohio have achieved. If we can boast with broadband availability, I believe we will attract many IT and start-ups to this area. Kirtland has many great virtues. It is located just 30 minutes from downtown Cleveland and the beaches of Lake Erie. We have very affordable housing and radiate an excellent school system. Being “Future Friendly” is our ticket to true financial growth, not over enthusiastic

building with the challenge of extensive vacancies that many cities are faced with. I believe we should be smart stewards of what God has given us and preserve the beauty of this area.

QWhat is the most pressing public safety issue facing the city and how would you address it?

AWe are fortunate to have a very competent police and fire force. With a population just under 7,000, I believe our community in Kirtland feels very safe and protected. I would be thrilled to see a service dog included as a new staff member in the future.

QWho are your top three campaign donors?

AI have the love of my family, and the sole support of myself financially for this campaign.

Kevin Potter

QWhat is your elevator pitch for why City of Kirt land voters should choose you as the next mayor? Please include bullet points of your major accomplishments as mayor.

AFour years ago, I promised to work hard for our taxpayers. I’m proud of my record and hope we can continue building Kirtland’s future together. Reduced my pay by $5,000. Reduced total city debt by $500,000. Consolidated dispatch, saving taxpayers $300,000 annually, and re-investing in our police department. Built outdoor pickleball courts at the Community Center. Hired qualified and ethical department leaders. Worked with Local and Federal Officials to secure more than $2 million in funding for infrastructure projects. Made tough decisions and cleaned up the disorganized mess at City Hall, including timecard fraud in the Service Department and other employee misconduct.

QHow do you plan to effectively and responsibly address and improve the City of Kirtland’s aging infrastructure?

ADuring my term, and with no road levy, we’ve been able to professionally rehabilitate 8 miles of city roads as compared to just 4 miles paved with city funds by my predecessor. I’ll continue to work with the Council and other elected leaders to secure infrastructure funding for sewers, storm drainage and roads through grants and economic development opportunities. I’ve proved that by working together and leaving no stone unturned, we can make great strides as a community

QDo you support the City of Kirtland’s 10-year road plan? What changes — or different approach — would you make/propose to the plan?

AI am proud to have worked with our City Engineer, Service Director, and City Council to have finally created a comprehensive inventory and plan for our city’s roads. This includes prioritizing roads, identifying costs, and creating a previously non-existent long-term road maintenance strategy. Our work is obviously not done, and we will continue to squeeze and commit every dollar possible to our roads, including spending more than $1 million on our roads this year.

QWould you commit to supporting a dedicated funding referendum for the roads?

AWorking with the City Council and our department leaders, we’ve been able to pave and maintain more than 8 miles of our city roads since the expiration of the road levy four years ago. As opposed to the previous four years, we now accurately track project costs and rely on professionals to engineer and pave our roads, ensuring your tax dollars are well spent. I would warn our residents to beware of questionable proposed tax schemes by a group running as a ticket. These plans will tax home sales and create burdensome parking fees and regulations for our local businesses. These schemes are not fair or viable solutions to fund our roads.

QIn light of the current housing and infrastructure challenges, including a lack of senior and affordable housing, what sustainable strategies would you seek to implement to ensure the long-term affordability and desirability of Kirtland as a place to live, work, retire and thrive?

AOver the last twenty years, Kirtland Planning & Zoning, residents, City Councils and Mayors have all committed to the idea that we enhance our Kirtland Historic Town Center, by increasing living, working, and retiring opportunities. Over the last four years, I have demonstrated the leadership qualities necessary to inspire and create an atmosphere for respectful dialogue where we can truly work together as a community to decide the right balance of commerce and living, while maintaining our small-town appeal.

QFrom your perspective, do you believe that the continued growth in the City of Kirtland is ultimately beneficial? If so, how do you plan to manage and maximize its positive impacts? What specific investments and initiatives do you believe are needed to achieve those impacts?

AIt’s about smart growth and bringing the residents together for community driven solutions. In this process, we will respect the heritage and appeal of the Kirtland community. Kirtland is a place we move to and live in for its small-town feel. While on Council, I led an effort to engage the community in a Strategic Planning initiative, and as Mayor, we’ve created resident surveys and I freely give out my cell phone number so residents can share thoughts, ideas, and concerns directly with me. Any growth we seek to achieve must come with broad support of our residents and I remain committed to that effort.

QHow do you balance maintaining the character of Kirtland with the need for development? What is the character of Kirtland?

AThe character of Kirtland is rooted in community and faith. By establishing the Mayor’s Action Network, we’ve been able to connect civic organizations and church communities and have served more than 50 seniors and veterans with Spring and Fall yard cleanups. By immersing ourselves in the community, we have been given an opportunity to get to know our folks and to hear what they love about and hope for Kirtland. Our residents are not only astute in their judgments but critical to listen to as we discern any development opportunities in Kirtland.

QHow would you strategically support the growth, development and sustainability of small, medium and large businesses?

ASmall business is a very important part of our local economy. We need to continue to support those efforts. That starts with ensuring that we have a competitive tax structure and running a city that is a good steward of tax dollars. It also includes ensuring a responsive city hall. We have worked to professionalize our department heads and ensure that they are responsive to our business needs. Our downtown has grown over the last four years, and there is more opportunity on the horizon. As we examine these opportunities, we need to engage our residents. We also have several tools to assist and support our small business as well as attract new ones. Recently, we established a comprehensive list of Kirtland businesses. This list will assist in fostering growth for existing businesses, but also give insight to what new businesses we might attract to Kirtland.

QWhat do you see as the role and/or function of the mayor in terms of fiscal responsibility and leadership?

AAs mayor, my job is to protect tax dollars, and keep our residents safe. That’s why we have a professional Service Department with fewer employees and better services. I’ve always viewed my role as serving the residents of Kirtland. That includes being a good fiscal steward, and that was the priority in these first four years. By working harder and smarter, we’ve reduced the number of city employees, reduced our debt by more than $500,000, increased our savings account, instituted Ohio Checkbook so residents can see every penny we spend, increased our safety forces, and doubled the amount of Kirt-

land funded road improvements - all this with no new taxes. Being Mayor also means making tough decisions on residents’ behalf. There was some clean up necessary at City Hall and some tough decisions that needed to be made.

QWhat is your vision for the City of Kirtland in the next 10 years, and what realistic policies do you propose to get us there?

AKirtland is an incredible community, and the most important asset we have are our citizens. We need to continue to work together to build a community and a future reflective of who we are. We need to value our history and heritage and preserve what makes us special while at the same time encouraging and promoting smart growth and investment. We need to continue to work with our Planning and Zoning Commission, our schools, and engage the community as we consider future alternatives. I know there has been a lot of noise about “deals” being made on future developments. Nothing can be further from the truth and no decisions will be made without broad community input and consensus.

QWhat is the most pressing public safety issue facing the city and how would you address it?

ASafety has from day one been a top priority. That’s why I’ve focused on a consolidated dispatch freeing $300,000 annually to help add additional full time police officers - 3 in total. I also worked closely with our Fire Chief and Council to obtain government grants allowing us to hire two additional fire fighters. Although it was difficult, I worked to clean up controversy in our Police Department and hire a highly accomplished Police Chief. We’ve improved and invested in new safety equipment and a new up to date ambulance. Additionally, I’ve worked closely with surrounding communities to ensure that our mutual-aid agreements continue to support our community needs. We continue to evaluate our safety needs and will make decisions and investments to keep Kirtland one of the safest communities in Northeast Ohio.

QWho are your top three campaign donors?

APlease see our campaign finance report on October 26th, 2023. Anyone may donate by going to www.potter4mayor.org or mailing checks for the Committee to Elect Kevin Potter to 7851 Russellhurst Dr., Kirtland, OH 44094

Kirtland City Council Races Heat Up

Of the city’s four wards, three are contested races. Ward 1 has Julie Symonds and Don Webbe; Ward 2 has Scott Haymer and Katarina Vesna Mijic-Barisic; and Ward 3 has Carol Martz and Joe Smolic. Ward 4 is the only uncontested race, with Sue Grazia running for the term. Only the contested races were invited to participate in the Kirtland Chronicle’s candidate questionnaire.

Ward 1

Julie Symonds

Age 45 Manager, Growth Initiatives, Wesco International www.facebook.com/ votejuliesymonds

QWhy are you seeking to be elected to Kirtland City Council? AI

care about Kirtland and know we have a number of challenges facing the city. I believe in stepping up and being part of the solution when I see something happening I can help with. My communication and project management skills can aid the city and help us move forward in a positive way. I know I don’t have all the answers, but I also know that being open to ideas and listening to each other is the best way to approach problem solving.

QWhat skills, qualities or experiences do you possess that separate you from your opponents?

AMy communication skills and project management experience will be a huge benefit to our city. I’m also a very practical person. I want to look at all sides of a situation and hear what our residents say before deciding on a course of action. I’m able to look at the big picture and see the opportunity and challenges of a scenario so that I can weigh what’s right based on facts. In addition, I am not running on a ticket with others, so I am not tied to other people’s opinions. I have effectively worked with both the current and previous mayor and council members on projects before. I am running to serve the residents of Ward 1 and no one else, because that’s what they deserve.

QWhat are the top priorities to address in the city and how will you meet them?

AOur roads, maintenance equipment, emergency service vehicles and buildings all need attention in the near future. We need to find financial means to allow the city to address these issues properly and then put a plan in place to maintain these assets so that we are set up for success in the future. I would work with city experts as well as encouraging our city residents with expertise in these matters to take an active role in helping us to formulate capital asset acquisition and maintenance plans where they don’t currently exist and execute on plans that do.

QWhat services to the community, if any, would you expand or reduce? Why?

AI would like to see the city take a more active role in making programs available for Kirtland’s youth that allow them to get in-

volved in the city. Teaching them about city government and helping them to plan some outreach events would create wonderful opportunities. I would like our children to feel like they have a role in making Kirtland the great place that it is, and for them to take pride in their citizenship.

QPlease share your understanding or knowledge of municipal finances, budgeting and auditing.

AI have served on boards for a number of organizations where we proposed, revised and/or approved annual operating budgets, so I have a working knowledge of this process. My career has also given me opportunities to develop capital budgets. Knowing this process and having attended city council meetings, I look forward to working with our council, mayor, and each city department head to ensure our city’s future financial standing.

QHow do you plan to work with the current administration?

AI believe in candor and respect in communication. Individuals will not always agree, and when that happens, the discussions should be respectful and fact-based so that we can gain perspective that will allow the group to find the best possible outcome. Careful listening and learning from one another is a must. I will make my decisions based on what is right for my Ward as their representative, not based on my personal goals. City council and the rest of the administration need to have a mutually respectful relationship, always focused on what is best for Kirtland.

QHow do you plan to effectively and responsibly address and improve the City of Kirtland’s aging infrastructure?

AWe clearly have work to do in regards to our infrastructure. I see this as a three step approach. First, we need to identify all of the relevant asset categories and prioritize them based on need, severity, cost, and benefit to the community, while establishing a timeline for implementation. Secondly, we need to seek funding for these needs, whether within the city’s operating budget

or by other means in order to strategically tackle the issues. Finally, we need to develop a maintenance schedule and plan to ensure these solutions are well maintained and last or outlast lifespan projections.

QDo you support the City of Kirtland’s 10-year road plan? What changes — or different approach — would you make/ propose to the plan?

AI do support the road plan, the community involvement and engineering practices that went into creating it. We needed a plan in order to address our roads in the most cost effective and responsible way, to minimizing the risk of both technical or financial surprises. Funding the plan in a way that is acceptable to the community remains the critical issue we have to address.

QWould you commit to supporting a dedicated funding referendum for the roads?

ABefore committing to any dedicated funding, I would need to understand the full and specific plan for the funds sought. Evaluation of possible alternative ways of funding the project would also be essential. Most importantly, I would need to listen to the residents of my ward to address their concerns and understand their perspectives before making any decision.

Donald Webb Age 76 Retired

Body Shop Manager

QWhy are you seeking to be elected to Kirtland City Council?

AI want to bring my experience, stability and perspective to serve this community. I’ve experienced this town as a youth a senior and everything in between. I have contributed to Kirtland significantly over the years and I believe it’s more important than ever to serve now.

See Council • Page 17

Council from page 16

QWhat skills, qualities or experiences do you possess that separate you from your opponents?

AI spent 23 years on the City Council under three administrations. I served 15 years on the Volunteer Fire Department reaching Captain. I served my country in Vietnam before that. My business experience is about listening to people and solving problems while watching the bottom line.

QWhat are the top priorities to address in the city and how will you meet them?

AWe have to support our first responders with pay and equipment they need to serve the community. We need to grow revenues so that we can meet that mission, and pave our roads. We do need to develop but we don’t need to demolish the City Hall we built for this community to do that.

QWhat services to the community, if any, would you expand or reduce? Why?

AWe have the safety and service forces we have right now and it’s critical to fund them at this level and not cut them. When called we expect the resources to be there. Our rolling stock particularly in service needs attention to be reliable for clearing and salting the roads.

QPlease share your understanding or knowledge of municipal finances, budgeting and auditing.

AI reviewed the budget and voted on the budgets for 23 years. We have a Finance Director to answer our specific questions and identify areas of concern, confirming what we see and understand from our own experience.

QHow do you plan to work with the current administration?

AI’ll work with the administration in place just as I have with three previous administrations, listening, understanding the issues, and being prepared to back that up with the right votes.

QHow do you plan to effectively and responsibly address and improve the City of Kirtland’s aging infrastructure?

AThere is a Fiber contract working its way through council right now. If it’s not complete I will make sure we work to make the best vendor selection in the next council. The road program is laid out in ordinance and driven by revenue which we need more of to catch up.

QDo you support the City of Kirtland’s 10-year road plan? What changes — or different approach — would you make/ propose to the plan?

AThe road plan whether 1 year or 10 years is based on funds available. The approach is to maintain what we have now and build revenues to spend by encouraging private development.

QWould you commit to supporting a dedicated funding referendum for the roads?

Scott R. Haymer

Age 46

Ward

Owner/Operator of Campbell Plumbing www.facebook.com/ haymerforcouncil

QWhy are you seeking to be elected to Kirtland City Council?

AAs I said during my campaign four years ago: “If you’re going to complain you should also be prepared to contribute”. Now, with four years of experience as a councilman I feel I can contribute even more to our residents. I want to continue to make a positive difference in our city. We have come a long way in a short time but I believe we can continue to grow and build an even stronger community.

QWhat skills, qualities or experiences do you possess that separate you from your opponents?

AI have learned more about municipal budgets and finances during the last 4 years than I could have ever imagined. In addition, my experiences as the owner and manager of a successful business, where every day is a new adventure, have also provided me with many skills that are of tremendous importance and value in carrying out the duties of a councilman. What I’ve learned in my company from managing projects and time deadlines, adhering to a budget and motivating and holding employees accountable have all made me a better councilman for Ward 2.

QWhat are the top priorities to address in the city and how will you meet them?

ABudget discipline is the absolute top priority for the City. Only by continuing to build our financial strength will we be able to see our way clear to finding funding solutions for our biggest needs (roads, infrastructure, equipment). We must continue our recent success of paying down the city debt (accumulated over many years) and increasing reserves (providing rainy day emergency funds and capital asset replacement monies when needed). Seeking cost efficiencies is a never ending task. If we do not do this basic blocking and tackling we will never be in a position to solve our biggest challenges.

QWhat services to the community, if any, would you expand or reduce?

Why?

AWe need better internet for the community and I will continue to work with the Council’s Utilities Committee and national and local internet providers to develop the best possible product for the residents. Expanding our youth sporting fields (like we did for soccer in partnership with the Kirtland library) will require continued creativity as needs evolve. We must continue to focus resources on the growth and vitality of our Senior/Community Center so that we do not backslide to where we were four years ago.

QPlease share your understanding or knowledge of municipal finances, budgeting and auditing.

See Wards • Page 18

Wards from page 17

everyone) but I feel that I now have a very solid foundation to build on. Also, running my business provides me with new financial learning experiences every day.

QHow do you plan to work with the current administration?

AI will keep doing what I have learned the past 4 years about building positive relationships in city government: make yourself available as much as possible, keep clear channels of communication open, learn by listening and stay focused on the common goal of keeping our city strong.

QHow do you plan to effectively and responsibly address and improve the City of Kirtland’s aging infrastructure?

AOur infrastructure challenge must be addressed in the same manner as any other financial challenge. First we need proper planning of capital needs acquisition, timing and maintenance (It amazes me that until 4 years ago we paved roads without planned maintenance follow up). And then there needs to be funding, which must be budgeted and spent no matter the competing needs. Which only comes from financial strength, less debt and adequate reserves. This is the only way to stay ahead of the infrastructure challenge.

QDo you support the City of Kirtland’s 10-year road plan? What changes - or different approach - would you make/propose to the plan?

AYes I do. But we have a plan that is only as good as Mother Nature is to us. Fortunately, the plan is built to be updated annually which keeps us ahead of the game on the planning of costs and work. As with many other things, the availability of adequate funding will determine the ultimate success of the plan.

QWould you commit to supporting a dedicated funding referendum for the roads?

AI am open to listening to any options that can help us move forward on this long standing challenge. I think a dedicated funding

program should be discussed but that cannot be the only solution. Some folks are exclusively promoting multiple avenues of potential revenue growth without ever mentioning cost efficiency and the increase we are already seeing in existing revenue streams, which is absolutely the wrong approach. Revenue increases would be great but wishing for them will not make them so. As mentioned above, fiscal discipline and financial strength must be our cornerstone, not wishful thinking.

Katarina Vesna Mijic-Barisic Age 54 Attorney

QWhy are you seeking to be elected to Kirtland City Council?

AI am in this race because I care about our City. Taxes and City government spending are high, transparency is low, and economic development is stagnant. If elected, I will work to reduce the City’s spending, increase reve nues (not taxes) with responsible economic development, and improve transparency.

QWhat skills, qualities or experienc es do you possess that separate you from your opponents?

AI am an attorney with 20+ years advising government, private, and higher educa tion sectors. I am also a wife and mom of three Kirtland graduates. Go Hornets! I am an inde pendent thinker and fiscal conservative.

QWhat are the top priorities to ad dress in the city and how will you meet them?

A(1) Stop the sale of City Hall to a developer picked without a competitive selection process. (2) Reduce city government spending by eliminating wasteful spending. (3) Increase revenues (not taxes) with responsible economic development.

QWhat services to the community, if any, would you expand or reduce? Why?

AI would not reduce any services. I will actively seek and listen to feedback from Ward 2 residents and work with Council to improve and expand services the residents want without raising taxes.

QPlease share your understanding or knowledge of municipal finances, budgeting and auditing.

AMy finance degree, coupled with my law degree, and my 20+ years of legal experience provide me with a solid understanding of municipal finances, budgeting, and auditing.

QHow do you plan to work with the current administration?

AI will work with City employees, council members, and the administration with respect and professionalism.

QHow do you plan to effectively and responsibly address and improve the City of Kirtland’s aging infrastructure?

ABy eliminating wasteful spending and allocating City revenues to areas needing attention.

QDo you support the City of Kirtland’s 10-year road plan? What changes — or different approach — would you make/ propose to the plan?

AThere is no such document on the City’s website. There are 9 documents under the heading “Kirtland Road Program” on the City’s website. One document, titled “Kirtland Road Program 2020 A New Direction to Move Kirtland Forward” contains observations of five miles of roads selected by the administration. The recent road patching raises concerns of accountability and cost effectiveness. Therefore, I believe a new approach is needed.

QWould you commit to supporting a dedicated funding referendum for

The residents delivered a clear message last November 8 by rejecting the administration’s attempt to increase income taxes. If elected, I will carry out the will of the people without increasing taxes.

QHow do you plan to work with the current administration?

AWorking with administration should be collaborative and always with the best interests of the city as the focus. Regardless of who sits in the mayor seat, or any other city position, I intend to hold them accountable and ask questions. I will not blindly follow anyone. Once I am confident that an issue or idea has been fully vetted and is compliant with process, then I will support and help implement any way I can.

QHow do you plan to effectively and responsibly address and improve the City of Kirtland’s aging infrastructure?

AAs with the roads, a maintenance plan for city properties and infrastructure is necessary to control cost and keep city assets protected. I would insist that when a project is budgeted for that it gets completed. For example, the 2023 budget has funding allocated to the 306 Fire Station and Community Center for various repairs; however, nothing has been done to date. When there is no maintenance there will be higher costs in the end.

Do you support the City of Kirtland’s 10-year road plan? What changes — or different approach — would you make/

from your opponents?

AIn my professional role I am responsible for a $4 million budget, a staff of 90 team members, and 24/7/365 operational support to MetroHealth. My education from Case Western Reserve University and Ursuline College have positioned me for strategic planning, organizational leadership, and collaboration to achieve successful outcomes. I am resourceful, reliable, and very straightforward when working through difficult or complex situations.

QWhat are the top priorities to address in the city and how will you meet them?

ATop priorities to be addressed are city services, compliance to policy, procedure, and Ohio procurement laws, and ensuring sustainable and responsible revenue growth.

QWhat services to the community, if any, would you expand or reduce? Why?

AI would like to do a deep dive into the Service Department operations to determine if what is being provided meets the needs of the residents. What may have worked years ago might not be sufficient today.

QPlease share your understanding or knowledge of municipal finances, budgeting and auditing.

ABudgeting and auditing are significant areas of my professional responsibilities. As noted above, I am responsible for input and adherence to a $4 million budget for my department. I am involved with the finance department in month end close discussions, accruals, and journal entry transactions as well capital project planning.

Supporting the 10-year road plan is necessary for repair and maintenance. The 2020 Kirtland Road Program document on the city website provides a nice history of what led us to the current road conditions we have today; however, it does not provide “a new direction to move Kirtland forward”. I would suggest a more thorough project plan be developed to include timelines and prioritization to minimize further damage and costs. The challenge is to ensure funding is available to support the plan.

QWould you commit to supporting a dedicated funding referendum for the roads?

AAnattempt at a road funding referendum failed to make it to the residents due, in part, to former Council President Kevin Potter and current councilman Joe Smolic. By voting no, they did not let residents have a say in how they want their tax dollars spent. By voting no, they took away the opportunity for residents to have a voice in the road plan. I would support a referendum that gives people a choice.

Joseph E. Smolic Age 56 Smolic Machine Company

QWhy are you seeking to be elected to Kirtland City Council?

AI am seeking re-election to help contin ue the turnaround of the city since I was originally elected in 2015. In my 8 years on council the city has greatly increased operating and financial transparency, adopted a long overdue 10-year road plan, and consolidated dispatch with Willoughby, saving the city over $ 300,000 annually. I want to build on these accomplishments and assist in addressing the next set of challenges as we continue Kirtland’s progress forward.

AI have been your Ward 3 councilman for the past 8 years and was voted current council president by my peers. I also own/ manage and work my own business, providing me with a wealth of experience and insight on strategic planning, problem solving and preparing and spending within a budget. The job of a councilman is to work with, not for, the mayor and to insist upon accountability. Unlike my opponent, I am not part of a political “ticket” with a mayoral candidate. Accordingly, perhaps the most important quality that separates me from my opponent is my unquestioned independence.

QWhat are the top priorities to address in the city and how will you meet them?

ARoads were the primary reason I ran for council eight years ago. It took more than four years of pushing, but now, with the help of community experts, we finally have a reliable road plan based on appropriate engineering standards and, even more importantly, follow up maintenance practices. But it takes funding. I will continue my efforts on finding funding mechanisms which are palatable to our community, which includes the properly balanced mix of savings from elimination of government waste, income tax revenue (which has been growing for 8 years), and other revenue enhancers.

QWhat services to the community, if any, would you expand or reduce? Why?

ABrush pickup has expanded to spring and fall pickups over my last four years. I would like to add spring/fall leaf collection also. I would like to continue to build on our reduction of Service Department response times to residents, a weakness four years ago and now a strength. Likewise, I will continue to support our incredible Community/Senior Center growth and any capital improvements needed. I will continue to support our police /fire/service departments and their capital needs. And I fully support the potential of increasing broadband opportunities for the community.

QPlease share your understanding or knowledge of municipal finances, budgeting and auditing.

AI have 8 years of valuable growth and experience on city council dealing with all of the various elements of municipal finances, I have been through 8 annual city budgets. In addition, running my own business provides me with daily reminders of what it means to set and stick to a budget, more importantly, the consequences of failing to do so. I have experience in operation audits, privately with my companies annual ISO audits, and attend-

ing the City’s post financial audit meetings.

QHow do you plan to work with the current administration?

AGovernment works best when all officials (whatever their position) collaborate constructively, focus on problem solving and share information truthfully and willingly. I strongly commit to consistently follow these best practices. I also have the experience of working with two different administrations and 14 different council(men/women) during my 8 years on council.

QHow do you plan to effectively and responsibly address and improve the City of Kirtland’s aging infrastructure?

AOur infrastructure requires constant focus and attention. Capital spending is required every year as our assets and infrastructure grow older. Diligent adherence to maintenance schedules is also essential. None of this is new, none of this is controversial. It is hard work, and it takes money to get it done. Revenue increases on the back of the taxpayers cannot always be the answer. Which is why cost efficiencies, waste elimination and streamlined operations are critical. We have made great strides, but there is always more that can be done if we are willing to invest the time and effort to do it.

QDo you support the City of Kirtland’s 10-year road plan? What changes — or different approach — would you make/ propose to the plan?

AYes, I continue to firmly support City’s 10 year road plan, As chairperson of the Service Department Committee that developed and legislated the long overdue plan, I successfully advocated for the maintenance as well as paving requirements. I am most proud that the plan is required to be updated annually to account for changing conditions resulting from weather or other events. The plan has been an outstanding tool that lets us know the conditions and cost of all roads in the city. However, as mentioned above, funding is critical, which brings us to our next question.

QWould you commit to supporting a dedicated funding referendum for the roads?

AI cannot respond to a question with no specifics of the funding being proposed. However, under the right circumstances, I could consider supporting such a referendum, but only if it is the last alternative considered, not the first. As stated above, savings from the cost efficiencies must come first. Grants and revenue enhancement from economic development are always potential funding opportunities which Kirtland has been pursuing for years and years (these are not new ideas as my opponent would lead you to believe). You get the idea. Asking the taxpayers for more cannot be the first choice.

The News You Need

Mayor’s Report

City of Kirtland Mayor Kevin Potter reported at the Sept. 6 council meeting that income-tax collections are approximately 76% year-to-date compared to an expectation of 67%. Property-tax collections yearto-date were approximately 7% ahead of budget.

“We had talked about earlier in the year, Chief Hutton and I, as we monitored our income tax and our tax receipts, if we could pull the trigger at some point to get this vehicle (2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD pickup truck) for the fire department, we would,” said Potter, adding the same analysis applied to a Kubota excavator.

In response to a request from Councilman Ron Fenstermaker, Potter said he would ask Finance Director Louis Slapnicker, who was absent, to provide a summary of all equipment purchases in the fire, police and service departments in 2023.

At the Sept. 18 council meeting, Potter said shredding day will be held at the community center on Oct. 21, from 8:30-11 a.m.

At the Oct. 2 council meeting, Potter said Economic Development Consultant Eddy Eckhart would attend the next council meeting.

Potter also said he understands a purchase agreement has been signed for the property — approximately 135 parcels— along state Route 306 to the intersection of state Route 6. Whether the city could extend water and sewer to the property would likely be dispositive for any project advancing, he added.

Department Reports

⦁ Fire Chief Anthony Hutton said at the Sept. 6 council meeting his department was “very busy” in August, with 154 calls — mostly storm related — including 79 EMS incidents. In addition, there were 22 transports to the new Cleveland Clinic hospital in Mentor. “Turnaround time is very quick,” Hutton said. “It’s a really good thing for us to have that hospital there.”

At the Oct. 2 meeting, Hutton said the department fielded 118 calls and is on pace for its busiest year ever. In addition, the Station 2 project is underway and the new pickup truck has been delivered, he said. Also in September, roughly 40% of transports went to the new Cleveland Clinic hospital in Mentor and “our turnaround time is almost immediate for us,” Hutton said, explaining

the department has been able to reduce overtime costs as well because of the new hospital.

⦁ Police Chief Brian McCallister said at the Sept. 6 council meeting that a D.A.R.E. program will be reinstitutes in Kirtland Schools, “something that’s long overdue in Kirtland.” In addition, the department made a $4,500 purchase of “prom promise equipment” through its OMVI Fund, funded through OVI enforcement in the city. The program will be in the schools around the time of prom, he added.

McCallister also said the engine brake — or “Jake brake” — ordinance introduced in August is being instituted to stop noise specifically associated with jake breaking. The ordinance defines a Jake brake as a device that “mounts on a motor vehicle engine, changes the action of the exhaust values and provides retarding power which is proportional to the engine’s revolutions per minute, so as to slow the motor vehicle.”

The ordinance prohibits the activation of these brakes on motor vehicles within city limits “unless the other braking devices on such motor vehicle have failed or exigent circumstances exist which require the use of such Jake brake.”

Council clarified the ordinance does not prohibit the use of engine brakes in cases of emergency.

At the Sept. 18 council meeting, McCallister said the book nook inside City Hall and outside the police department is finished. It is geared toward elementary-age children, he added. A grand opening is slated for Oct. 14 at 4:30 p.m. Residents are asked to RSVP on the Kirtland Police Department’s Facebook page.

At the Oct. 2 meeting, McCallister reported 12 physical arrests in September, with 36 total charges. The chief also underscored Ohio’s new texting and driving law went into effect Oct. 1. “So, we’re out looking for those violations,” he said.

The chief said his officers were at the senior center for threat assessment training, including concepts of “avoid, deny, defend, or run, hide, fight.”

⦁ Service Director Joe Fornaro said at the Sept. 6 council meeting the severe late August storm resulted in a total rain volume in the Chagrin River of 3.35 inches in less than 12 hours. He added most flooding had dissipated within 24 hours.

Fall brush pickup for Wards 1 and 4 will be Oct. 30 through Nov. 4, and Nov. 6-10 for Wards 2 and 3, Fornaro said at the Oct. 2 council meeting.

See News • Page 21

by alan koRnSpan and Rich kelly SpoRtS@kaRlovecmedia com

Boys Soccer

The Kirtland boys soccer team is currently playing at a very high level, outscoring their opponents 14-0 in the past week alone.

The last week of September, the Hornets had three matches. They defeated Open Door Christian Academy, 2-0, on Sept. 25; Crestwood, 9-0, on Sept. 26; and Madison, 3-0, on Sept. 28.

Against Open Door Christian, Kirtland scored one in the first half and another in the second. Nickolas Barisic scored on a penalty kick midway through the first half, and Vince Carriero scored second.

Facing Crestwood, the Hornets scored six goals in the first half to take a 6-0 lead heading into halftime, then added three more goals in the second.

Kirtland was led in the Crestwood victory by Luka Oroz and Carriero, both with two goals. Also scoring goals were Barisic, Derek Clucas, Eli Johnson, Xavier Lasecki and Vincent Vukovic.

Leading Kirtland in assists against Crestwood were Anand Sundararajan (4), Barisic (2), Charlie Whitaker (1) and Sander de Zwaan (1).

Against Madison, Barisic, Vukovic and Aidan Whited scored the three goals for the win.

10-Game Winning Streak

Having started the season 1-2, the Hornets have now won 10 games in a row. In fact, they have not lost a game since Aug. 24, falling to Mentor Lake Catholic.

Since then, the Hornets have been dominant, outscoring their opponents 63-2.

The only team to score against the Hornets in their 10-game streak has been Cardinal, who the Hornets beat, 10-2. In fact, the closest margin of victory has been two goals, when Kirtland beat Open Door Christian.

Kirtland has scored 76 goals and amassed 65 assists.

Hornets Nest

Leading the team in goals so far are Baris ic (18), Carriero (12), Whited (8), Sundarara jan (7), Vukovic (7), Oroz (7), Drew Duncan (4), de Zwaan (4) and Clucas (3).

Barisic also leads the team with 18 as sists, followed by Sundararajan (14), Duncan (9), Carriero (8), Vukovic (5), Oroz (3), Dan iel Bak (2), and Jarrett Morris (2).

Goalkeeper Jack Green leads the Hor nets in saves in goal, with 21, followed by Will Bradshaw with three and Duncan with two.

Barisic provided his thoughts about the season after the Crestwood contest.

“We’re coming up on the back half of the season,” Barisic said. “We’re starting to play better games, so we just want to carry our momentum (forward). Heading into the play offs, we want to keep winning.”

Added Carriero, “The season’s been go ing well. I think we have been moving the ball and playing (well) as a team.”

Three games remained in the team’s regular season: against Fairview (Oct. 5), Beachwood (Oct. 10) and Independence (Oct. 12).

Girls Soccer

Kirtland girls soccer has played many close games this season against strong oppo nents in preparation for the OHSAA playoffs, and the team is currently 5-5-4 in 14 games this season.

Coaches schedule very difficult opponents during the regular season, senior Paige Dolovacky explained, so the Hornets are are best prepared for the OHSAA tournament.

“They want to get us ready for the post-season so that we can go far in the championships,” Dolovacky said.

Over the last two weeks of September, including a match Oct. 2 against Madison, Kirtland has compiled a 2-1-3 record against tough opponents.

The Hornets defeated Beachwood 2-0 on Sept. 12, and the next day, tied Orange in a scoreless draw. The following week, Kirtland defeated the Independence Blue Devils, 1-0, on Sept. 19. But they were defeated, 2-1, by

West Geauga on Sept. 22 — Kirtland’s only loss since Sept. 7.

In their most recent games, the Hornets have played both Andrews Osborne Academy and Madison to a draw.

Against Andrews Osborne Academy, both teams scored a goal within the first 10 minutes of the match. Kirtland took a 2-1 lead later in the first half thanks to goals by the Dolovackys: Paige first, then Olivia.

“They always say right place, right time,” Paige said, “and that’s exactly what happened today. I was just right there, kicked it in. It was great.”

Olivia, too, was quite humble about her goal.

“It was just luck,” Olivia said. “The goalkeeper missed the ball, and I just finished it.”

The game was challenging, but the team had expected to play a very tough opponent, Paige said. Still, she thought it was one of the

best games played so far this season.

“Our game was really tough today,” Olivia agreed. “Definitely, the other team played really well. Overall it was just a great game. Everybody fought until the end.”

Of the season, Paige said, “It was off to a rocky start at the beginning, but I feel like we progressed significantly. There’s still obviously room for growth, because we’re not at our peak yet, (but) we’re getting there.

“This is my last year, but I am just excited to really play hard. I love the girls here; it is really fun.”

Added Olivia, “I’m just looking forward to beating some teams and ending my year (strong) as a senior.”

Kirtland, currently 5-5-4 on the year, planned to finish the regular season with games against Perry (Oct. 5), and Conneaut (Oct. 10) in preparation for the OHSAA playoffs.

ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG Kirtland’s Clare Davidson against Andrews Osborne Academy in a draw. The team is 5-5-4 on the season.

⦁ City Engineer Doug Courtney said at the Sept. 6 council meeting Blueberry Hill has been recycled and new asphalt would be rolled after the road cures and the areas of full-depth repair identified and fixed. The same schedule applied to Fox Hill. State bid repair work was performed on Hobart and Regency Woods Drive, from Kirtland-Chardon out to Cardinal. Rehabilitation of Crestwood from Oakwood south to the cul de sac would begin before or in October.

Courtney said the city is awaiting approval from Lake County that the Old Town sewer improvements have been accepted so residents could begin tying-in.

At the Oct. 2 meeting, Courtney reported the state Route 306 bridge project over the East Branch of the Chagrin River will have a pre-construction meeting Oct. 19.

The Rockwood stormwater basin project was awarded to Eclipse Companies LLC for a price of $73,000, below the Lake County Engineer’s Office estimate of $80,000. Work is planned to start Oct. 16 and should take 1-2 weeks.

Courtney mentioned he would be submitting a proposal to council to conduct a water flow/drainage study on Saxton Drive.

• Kirtland Community and Senior Center Coordinator Teresa Szary said at the Sept. 18 council meeting they will be hosting AED and CPR training with the fire department at the end of October.

Kirtland’s annual community fall service day will be Nov. 11, from 8-11 a.m., Szary said.

“We will be doing senior yard cleanup and veteran cleanup. We’ll be meeting at city hall,” she explained, adding a Veteran’s Day ceremony is planned for 11 a.m. at Barber Williams American Legion Post 609.

⦁ At the Oct. 2 council meeting, Law Director Matt Lallo reported he and city staff has been inundated with 25-30 public records requests over the past several weeks.

Standing Committees

Council President Joe Smolic said at the Sept. 6 council meeting the Service Committee met Aug. 31 regarding the solid waste and recycling collection contracts. There were four bids, with Waste Management and Chardon-based Dumpster Bandit submitting the two lowest bids for the five-year contract.

Mark Horvath, who co-owns Dumpster Bandit with his wife, told council members they are a local business founded in 2018. They service approximately 12,000 dwellings, mostly in the local areas.

Horvath said what distinguishes his business from other waste haulers is Dumpster Bandit is a local family-owned company, adding it is important to keep local business thriving.

“I think it’s very important to support local businesses,” he said, adding he expected his fleet of 20 well-maintained trucks to keep growing.

Waste Management representative Vince Crawford said his company met or exceeded all contract specifications. He also said Waste Management would continue to service all routes in Kirtland on Mondays and Tuesdays.

“Our trucks are equipped with the camera systems for service verification,” Crawford noted.

He added, “There also is a camera that’s facing out and one that’s facing in the cab. If that driver does an evasive action, such as

swerve the truck real hard or slams on the brakes, that’s when that camera system starts recording. That information then goes back to the route manager who is able to sit down with the route driver at the end of the day to coach that driver up on how to be a better driver.”

In addition, the system detects whether a driver is on the radio or on their phone.

Residents who have an account with Waste Management are able to manage their account via a mobile phone, said Crawford, including signing up for text message notification of trash/recycling pickup days, alerts if pick up is delayed, holiday service and scheduling bulk trash pickup.

Crawford also said Waste Management — which has 53 trucks are its Chardon waste-hauling site, including 32 residential-type trucks — has been a service provider to Kirtland for the last 15 years.

Jake Brake Ordinance Passed; Waste Management Bid Accepted

At the Sept. 18 meeting, and after third reading, council unanimously passed an ordinance prohibiting engine brakes in the city.

Council also said it would authorize Mayor Potter to accept the bid of Waste Management for solid waste and recycling collection and enter into a five-year contract. The resolution requires a third and final reading.

Councilman Matt Schulz noted the Dumpster Bandit bid was less over the five-year term, and asked whether it was the “summation of all the different parts” that made Waste Management the lowest and best bid.

Smolic said members of the Service Committee, which includes Smolic, Fenstermaker and Councilman Scott Haymer, recommended Waste Management because of its “advantages,” e.g., trucks, innovations, cameras, safety, text messaging and lack of complaints, and the fact Dumpster Bandit did not have any long-term contract with any municipalities.

Council Comments: Term Limits

At the Sept. 18 council meeting, Councilman Rich Lowery said he would like to adopt a resolution setting term limits of city council members and the mayor. He asked Law Director Matt Lallo if he would help council move that process forward.

“Sure,” Lallo replied. “Based on my research, especially the way our charter is written, I would say it would have to be a charter amendment. So, council would pass an ordinance, which would then place it on the ballot, to amend the charter.”

He recommended council also consult the Ohio Municipal League and National League of Cities, and any other statewide or national organizations that represent municipalities.

In addition, Lallo said any meeting to discuss term limits would have to be open to the public.

Council created a special committee — which Lowery appointed as chair — to establish city term limits and the matter would be discussed after the Oct. 16 council meeting.

See Comment • Page 22

Comment from page 21

Public Comment

Eagle Road resident Barb Ducca voiced concern at the Oct. 2 council meeting about the possible town center project, which was discussed earlier this year.

“I don’t think Kirtland is the city for that,” she said. “I’m concerned about bull-dozing this building down or whatever other plans you have. And also the veterans park.”

Potter said the Marous Development Group came to council in May to present the concept of a town center.

“It was exactly that, a concept, an idea,” he said. “We said at that time the community would have plenty of opportunity to weigh in and to let us know what they thought about that project or any project.”

He added, “It was really about getting a conversation started.”

Potter also emphasized any project of that magnitude “absolutely would go to the people to vote yes or no.”

He said the city is “so incredibly far away from what a right project might be” and his administration is listening to the residents and would let them decide on any project of this type.

“It’s not a dictatorship here,” said Potter.

In response to comments from Linda Davidson about a town center project, Potter said, “I know it’s politics, political season, and people like to get riled up and knock on doors, and spread some misinformation, but the truth of the matter is this group of council here, certainly our law director, Eddie Eckart, myself, there is no way anyone

SHRED DAY

Oct. 21, Kirtland

Community Center, 8:30-11 a.m.

FALL BRUSH PICKUP

Oct. 30-Nov. 4, Wards 1 & 4

Nov. 6-10, Wards 2 & 3

would do anything that is not completely above board, number one, and number two, without the full support and full engagement of the community.”

Other council members emphasized there is a great deal of misinformation being spread. Fenstermaker said council never said it was selling city hall.

Lowery said there also is a misconception that any town center project is being fasttracked.

“I commend our mayor (Potter) for making an opportunity to at least to do something in our community that our community is asking for,” he said.

“So I commend the mayor for going out there, sticking his neck on the line, and finding somebody who would put their money up front to come up with a conceptual plan, something that’s conceptual that has no bearing on, fast-tracked through, done in the dark of night, without the community involvement. So please, stop those rumors out there. They’re not true.”

Council reiterated the community asked for a concept.

Vets Honor

POW/MIA at Wilson Stadium

Members of Barber-Williams American Legion Post 609, in Kirtland, and Rolling Thunder Ohio Chapter 1, in Mentor (pictured), dedicated a POW/MIA Memorial Chair at Wilson Stadium before the Kirtland Hornets’ Sept. 15 home football game. The Hornets blanked the previously undefeated Cuyahoga Heights Red Wolves, 35-0, to improve to 4-1 on the season.

CHUCK BICKART

Kiwanis to Hold Holiday Dinner for Seniors

by Jim poRteR kiRtland kiwaniS

For many years, Kirtland Kiwanis has hosted a holiday dinner each December for eligible local seniors to gather together with Kiwanians at the Community of Christ Church for a delicious meal, fellowship, musical entertainment and a visit from Santa.

The 2023 dinner is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Dec. 7 and will last about two hours. The criteria for attendees is: Anyone 75 or older who resides in the Kirtland area and former residents who reside in a senior living facility.

Also included are younger residents who may be shut-in or who, otherwise, have difficulties getting out on their own.

Kiwanis will try to provide transportation for anyone who needs assistance. If you are interested in participating in this fantastic event, please respond to the Kiwanian listed below.

We will need your name, phone number and email address, if you have one. One of our Kiwanis members will contact you with an invitation to attend and answer any questions which you may have. If you have been invited in the past, you are already on our list and will be invited again this year.

All information should be sent no later than Nov. 1 to Tom Dice at ta_dice@yahoo. com or 440-256-8409 (email is better for Tom, but if you call, leave a message and he will call you back). Let him know if you have any questions.

Kiwanis Students of the Month

Lake Metroparks Farmpark

For more information about Lake Metroparks Farmpark, located at 8800 Kirtland Chardon Road, Kirtland, and a schedule of activities, visit goto.lakemetroparks.com/farmpark.

3-acre Corn Maze

Sept. 1 – Oct. 15 • Tuesday-Sunday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The harvest season begins in September. The whole family can explore Farmpark’s Corn Maze. Dr. Robotnik and the 8-bit villains have stolen all the power-ups from your favorite video game heroes of the 80s and 90s, and hidden them all over the 3-acre Corn Maze. Help Mario, Pac-Man, Sonic and others save the corn maze from these evil doers.

farmers can navigate the corn maze and enjoy harvest-themed crafts and other harvest activities throughout the weekend.

Halloween Drive-Thru

Oct. 6-8, 13-15, 20-22 & 27-29 • 6:30-8:30 p.m. Travel Farmpark’s trails and roadways after dark in the comfort and safety of your own vehicle and experience many playfully frightful sites throughout the park–some that you have come to love and some new surprises. Advanced tickets required and sold online only: goto.lakemetroparks.com/halloween-drive-thru

From Wimsy to Wonder

CHUCK BICKART/KIRTLAND KIWANIS

The Kirtland Kiwanis “Students of the Month” for October 2023 are fifth-grader Nolan Loschert, of Kirtland Elementary School, sixth-grader Ben Trerm, of Kirtland Middle School, and 10th-grader Shelby Vermilye, of Kirtland High School. The Kiwanis sponsors the “Students of the Month.” The principal and staff chose one student from each school to be recognized. Each student has their picture taken, receives a certificate and a T-shirt that says “Student of the Month.”

HELP WANTED SERVICES

Offering special discounts for interior and exterior painting and staining. 20+ years experience. Professional and insured. Call Dan 440-342-4552.

Miller Gutter Guards. Year round leaf protection. 100% aluminum. Amish owned. Free estimates. 440-332-4061.

Corn & Pumpkin Weekend

Oct. 7 & 8 • 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Finish celebrating the harvest season. Help husk, shell, and grind corn while young visitors make handmade corn husk dolls and paint pumpkins ($3) to take home. Little

Classifieds

Fall Art Show

Aug. 26 – Oct. 15 • 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Free Multimedia show inspired by nature and rich in imagination and style. Visitors will enjoy the creativity of local artists in many forms, including photography, felting, collage, paintings, leaf alchemy and more.

Seeking Sales Rep

Karlovec Media Group is hiring commissioned account representatives to sell print and online advertising in and around Geauga County, specifically in the eastern part of the county and in the Amish community. Candidates must be able to manage time wisely, meet deadlines and have reliable transportation. All of our staff must be willing to work in a team environment to help grow our newspapers. The ability to understand and live with a deadline-driven business is a must.

Submit resumes to editor@karlovecmedia.com