CITY OVERVIEW
Where Tradition and Culture Abound ›› Continued from page 5
unique neighborhoods are among the things that make Parma an ideal place to live, said Mayor Tim DeGeeter. “We have a lot of excellent amenities in the city, with neighborhoods like Ukrainian Village and Polish Village, and we’re conveniently close to many others,” he said. “We’re close to Downtown and the Tremont community. From the north side of town it’s a really quick ride to go down to Progressive Field and see a Guardian's game. With access to the Jennings Freeway and I-480 we’re pretty centrally located to go east or west.” Schnitz Ale Brewery celebrates their one year anniversary with a ribbon cutting and special happy hour on The city also features a wide November 8, 2022. inventory of home styles from traditional bungalows in the northern areas to larger what my favorite animal is. It’s pretty obvious, because I colonials in established subdivisions like Dogwood Estates have so many pink flamingos in my office. It’s a fun thing and Sassafras Hills. “If you are a young family looking to buy that we embrace as a symbol of the city. We also embrace a home, we've got safe, walkable neighborhoods with small our distinction as the self-proclaimed paczki capital of the businesses that dot the landscape, a lot of churches and a lot world.” of fun bars,” DeGeeter said. “We’re becoming a foodie town DeGeeter said he also embraces the city’s tagline— with some really hip smaller restaurants.” “Progress through Partnerships”—which emphasizes Other traditional Parma associations—some of which the collaboration that has made Parma a desired city in have long drawn lighthearted ribbing from throughout the which to live and work. “The city government can't do county—also remain hip in the community, DeGeeter noted. everything alone. We need partners to help maintain a high “My home is well represented with pink flamingos and quality of life in the city,” DeGeeter said. “That’s why we gazing balls,” he said. “We like promoting the pink flamingo work with organizations like We Are Parma Proud, a nonas an image of Parma. It’s a cool thing that old and young profit group that puts on community events. We partner residents appreciate. When fourth graders come to tour City with local businesses, organizations and area leaders to Hall for a civics lesson, they always tell me they can guess improve recreation, senior and city services, boost economic development and update aging infrastructure.” Economic development in the city remains strong, the mayor reported. DeGeeter presented his 2023 State of the City address at WorkHub99—a former General Motors (GM) training facility—where 10 small businesses employ more than 50 workers. GM recently completed a $46 million expansion of its local metal fabrication plant, and about 17 acres of property, once occupied by MTD Products, is ripe for new development, DeGeeter said. “Our businesses are our lifeline,” he said. “The income tax base provides the funding to hire police, firemen and other city employees.” In 2022, the city brought in almost $51 million in income tax revenue—up Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter almost $9 million compared to 2021. Paid for by Friends of Timothy J. DeGeeter l 6009 Dawn Vista Oval, Parma 44129 In the retail sector, residents’ shopping and dining options
6 Parma Magazine & Community Guide | 2023-24
