TRICK OR TREATING

w w w. i n d e p e n d e n c e o h i o . o r g
A
monthly publication of the
City
of I ndependence
A Message From Our Mayor
IN THIS ISSUE
A Message from Our Mayor
1
City Directory 2
Inside City Hall 3
Senior Corner 4
Police Dept. 5
Fire Dept. 6
Building Dept. 7
Service Dept. 8
Historically Speaking 9
City Council News
9
Zoning Board 15
Planning Commission 15
Community Calendar 16
Fall Bazaar/Bake Sale
& Hot Lunches
Concordia Lutheran Church
6705 Brecksville Road
Saturday, October 22
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
TRICK OR TREATING
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Monday, October 31
OCTOBER 2011
Dear Resident,
It’s October, and we now turn our attention to the cooler months of fall
and preparations for winter!
Municipal Income Revenue continues to track well above last year’s figures,
Gregory P. Kurtz, Mayor
getting us back to the level last achieved in 2008. However, some material
expense categories continue to climb, highlighting why my Administration and our Council have
had to be so diligent in proactively managing the City’s Operating Budget since my return to this
office in 2008.
Our Engineering and Service Departments have been working steadfastly to inspect, determine
problems, and provide solutions to the flooding conditions which were the result of the heavy,
record-breaking rains we experienced over the summer months.
Legislation was passed in September to help with storm water management, purchase
equipment, and provide additional funding to better deal with these flood conditions. In
addition, a watershed study will be performed on lower Brookside to evaluate problems and
existing conditions, identify feasible solutions, and provide a breakdown of costs and potential
sources of funding for each solution.
The upgrade of the Brecksville Road/Selig Drive/ITC Intersection continues, with work
focusing on the upgrades needed for Brecksville Road, itself, as well as on the ITC side of
Brecksville Road. While this work has been going on, the utility companies (Dominion,
Illuminating Co., Time Warner, WOW, AT&T, etc.) have been busy working to move their
infrastructure to allow for the re-aligned and expanded roadways.
Once all of the utilities are moved, the contractor for the project can then proceed to the final
construction phase, which will be the tie-in of the re-aligned portion of Selig to the existing Selig
near the Fire Station driveway.
The Cleveland Clinic will begin moving employees into the facility before the end of the
year, with the majority of the move being completed during the First Quarter of 2012. We look
forward to the Clinic’s expanded presence here in town!
Babushka’s Kitchen at the Town Square Shopping Center opened last month, and Melt Bar
and Grilled at Liberty Commons Shopping Plaza is scheduled to open on Friday, October 7.
These two restaurants are fine additions to the many dining options with which we are blessed
here in Independence. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion, or simply want to take your
loved one out on Sweetest Day, I hope you will patronize one of our fine Independence dining
establishments.
Finally, please be on the lookout for our little ghosts and goblins as they go out Trick-orTreating on Monday evening, October 31!
Sincerely,
Gregory P. Kurtz
Mayor
“Bike Sharrows” on Brecksville at E. Pleasant Valley
You may have noticed the new markings on Brecksville Road near E. Pleasant Valley Road. These markings
are called “Sharrows.” They are Shared Roadway Bicycle Markings intended to alert other road users to expect
bicyclists to occupy travel lanes; to help bicyclists position themselves away from parked cars (to avoid being
struck by suddenly opened car doors); and are used in situations where it may not be obvious where bicyclists
should be riding, such as at intersections with multiple turn lanes.
Bicycling is gaining popularity as a recreational activity and an alternative mode of transportation. Some
communities that do not have the additional space needed or the funding to create dedicated bike lanes to provide for the safe existence of both bikes and vehicles on the nation’s roadways are marking lanes with “Sharrows.”
These limited markings will alert motorists to the fact that bikes may be on the roadway, which is legal in Ohio.
The “Sharrows” on Brecksville Road are the first step to implementing bike-friendly practices in Independence, something other municipalities have already done.
Gregory P. Kurtz
YOUR CITY DIRECTORY
Mayor
Kurtzg@independenceohio.org
John M. Veres
John Nicastro Jr.
Finance Director
Veresj@independenceohio.org
Police Chief
Steve Rega
Law Director
Ed Kostyack
Gregory J. O’Brien
Interim Fire Chief
William T. Doyle
City Prosecutor
Deborah Nicastro &
Jennifer Weiler
Recreation Director
David Snyderburn
Service Director
Carl Opatrny
Judges of the Garfield
Heights Municipal Court
Building Commissioner
City Engineer
Tom Avsec
City Planner
Robert Williams
Human Resources Director
Natalie Buc
Econ. Dev. Director
Kathleen Kapusta
Angela T. Zeleznik
Donald Ramm
Clerk of Courts
Jeff Markley
Purchasing Coordinator
Ron White
Community Services Director
Vernon Blaze
Coordinator of Senior Services
Finance Coordinator/Systems Analyst
2
CITY MEETINGS
Anthony Togliatti, Vice Mayor
Recorded Message of City’s
Scheduled Meetings
328-1477
Chair, Community Services
togliattia@independenceohio.org
Phone: 328-9253
Carl Asseff
Chair, Economic Growth
& Development
asseffc@independenceohio.org
Cell: 216-410-6911
Chair, Finance
crooksj@independenceohio.org
Phone: 440-838-0833
Thomas Narduzzi
Chair, Public Lands & Buildings
narduzzit@independenceohio.org
Phone: 642-8559
OCTOBER 2011 | A
524-4131
524-0088
447-0160
524-9191
524-4131
524-3711
524-1234
524-9614
524-3262
524-9191
524-3035
524-9200
Jim Riley
Civil Service Commission
1st Thursday each month–7:00 p.m.
Chairman – Thomas Priebe
2nd Tuesday each month – 7:00 p.m.
Planning Commission
1st Tuesday each month – 7:00 p.m.
Chairman – Dale Lytkowski
Board of Zoning Appeals
3rd Thursday each month – 7:00 p.m.
Chairman – Mark Moreal
Community Services Department
Judy Kall 524-7373
Patricia Wisnieski
Chair, Safety/Rules & Ordinances
wisnieskip@independenceohio.org
Phone: 524-8104
Susan Kurshuk
Clerk of Council
kurshuks@independenceohio.org
Phone: 524-1008
City
4th Tuesday, TBA, City Hall
Meals on Wheels Program
Chair, Streets & Sidewalks
rileyj@independenceohio.org
Phone: 328-1780
monthly publication of the
1st & 3rd Wed. each month -8:30 a.m.
Chairman – Norman Casini
Council Workshop
Chair, Utilities & Sewers
piteoj@independenceohio.org
Phone: 573-4958
Human Resources Indy Field House Library Maple Shade Cemetery Mayor’s Office Outdoor Pool Police Department Post Office Recreation Department Service Department Senior Services Tech Services Dept. Architectural Review Board
Council
James C. Piteo
IM POR TAN T N U M B E R S
POLICE/FIRE EMERGENCIES 9-1-1
Animal Control 524-3940
Building Department 524-1019
Chamber of Commerce 573-2707
City Meetings 328-1477
Clerk of Courts 524-4131
Community Services 524-7373
Council Clerk 524-1008
Economic Development 524-4131
Engineering Department 524-1374
Finance Department 524-4131
Fire Department 524-4001
COUNCIL MEMBERS
Jim Crooks
Technical Services Director
Joseph T. Lubin
Web Site: www.independenceohio.org
E-mail: cityhall@independenceohio.org
Drivers Needed Periodically
to Deliver Meals
If you can help, please call
Natalie Buc at 524-7373
of I ndependence
Americans Fought for the
Right to Vote
Over the years, U.S. citizens have worked hard to extend voting rights
to everyone.
1787 - When the Constitution was written, only white men age 21
or older who owned property could vote.
1807-1843 - During these years, the states changed their rules so
that all white men age 21 and older could vote—not just those
who owned property.
1870 - The Civil War led to the 15th Amendment to the Constitution. This amendment guaranteed the right to vote to all men
age 21 and older, regardless of race or ethnic background.
1920 - The 19th Amendment gave women age 21 and older the right
to vote.
1964 - With the 24th Amendment, states could no longer make
people pay to vote in national elections.
1971 - The 26th Amendment lowered the voting age to 18. Congress
and the courts have also endured that no literacy, language or
other tests can keep citizens from voting. The right to vote is
precious – and it deserves to be used!
How Important Is One Vote?
1645 - ONE VOTE gave Oliver Cromwell control over England.
1649 - ONE VOTE caused Charles I of England to be executed.
1776 - ONE VOTE GAVE America the English language instead of
German.
1845 - ONE VOTE brought Texas into the Union.
1866 - ONE VOTE saved President Andrew Johnson from impeachment.
1875 - ONE VOTE changed France from a monarchy to a Republic.
1876 - ONE VOTE gave Rutherford B. Hayes the Presidency of the
U.S.
1923 - ONE VOTE gave Adolf Hitler leadership of the Nazi Party.
1941 - ONE VOTE saved Selective Service just weeks before Pearl
Harbor.
The right to vote is a precious gift in the United States. Be sure to use
it, so we don’t lose it!
- Catherine M. Pierce, Town of Lindley Historian
Remember to Vote
on General Election Day Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Polls Open 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Applications to Vote by Mail are available at City Hall, Community
Services and the Independence Library, or you can call the Board of Elections at 216-443-3298 or visit www.boe.cuyahogacounty.us.
Independence Library Book Sale
6361 Selig Drive
216-447-0160
Special Preview Night for Friends Only
6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, October 6
Public Sale
Friday and Saturday, October 7 & 8
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Public Sale & Bag Sale
Sunday, October 9
1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
3
The sale is sponsored by the Friends of the Independence
Library; proceeds support the library programs for all ages.
INSIDE CITY HALL
Finance Coordinator/
Systems Analyst
The City leadership team, consisting of both the Administration and Council, has embraced the concept of “community” more
frequently over the last few years. Most people recognize that the City
and the other entities that operate within it, such as the school district,
churches, and the business community, although independent of each
other, are all inter-related under the “community” umbrella.
In that regard, following are some facts and points of interest
regarding the Permanent Improvement Renewal Levy, Issue 11, that
the Independence Local School District has on the November 8, 2011
Ballot:
• It is not a tax increase. The District is only requesting that
the current levy amount be renewed – not replaced, and
not increased
• The current levy raises approximately $600,000 per year for
the School District. The renewed levy would raise the exact
same amount
• This $600,000 per year is used to purchase “Capital” items,
such as school busses, textbooks, computers, technology
enhancements, building and facility improvements, i.e.,
windows, HVAC systems, parking lots, etc.
• It is not and cannot be used for regular operating expenses,
such as wages and benefits
• The current Permanent Improvement Levy does not expire
until the end of 2012
• The new Permanent Improvement Levy would therefore
commence in 2013 and run through the end of 2017
For property taxes that were paid in Independence in 2011 for the
2010 tax year, approximately $916 of the amount paid per $100,000
of valuation went to the Independence Local School District. Of that
$916, only $38 is attributable to the current Permanent Improvement
Levy.
If Issue 11 passes and the current Permanent Improvement Levy is
renewed in November of this year, Independence property owners will
still only be paying approximately $38 per year in property taxes per
$100,000 of valuation for the District’s Permanent Improvements.
Finally, it should be noted that the voters of Independence
approved a 3.2 Mill Emergency Operating Levy earlier this year,
collection for which will begin in 2012. This levy will cause a small
increase in property taxes, but is totally separate from and unrelated
to the Permanent Improvement Levy described herein.
For more information about Issue 11 and the Permanent
Improvement Renewal Levy, please go to www.independence.k12.
oh.us/pilevy.
– Vern Blaze
SENIOR CORNER
Medicare Part D – Prescription
Coverage
It’s no secret that you have a limited amount of time to compare
Medicare Part D Plans for any given year, but many people may not
be aware of the date changes to the Annual Enrollment Period for
2012 plans.
If you do not enroll in a Part D Plan during the Annual Enrollment Period, you will be without a Medicare prescription drug plan
or will not be able to change your plan for the following year. Here’s
what you need to know about enrolling in a Part D Plan for 2012:
• The enrollment period for 2012 Part D Plans begins on October 15, 2011 and ends on December 7, 2011 (please return the
sheet below to Kathleen Kapusta by November 30 to allow time
for processing). This is a change from years past when you were
able to enroll between November 15 and December 31.
• The last application submitted during the Annual Enrollment
Period will become effective on January 1, 2012. In other
words, if you submit an application but change your mind, as
long as you are still in the enrollment period you can submit
another application.
• The plan you choose during the enrollment period cannot be
changed after the enrollment period ends. The Open Enrollment Period that allowed changes between January 1 and March
31 was eliminated in 2011 and will not be available in 2012.
It’s up to you to be proactive and enroll in a plan within the allotted time frame. Don’t be one of the persons who do not act in time
or who doesn’t recognize that the 2012 Medicare Part D enrollment
period has changed. The responsibility rests with you.
✂
COMPLETE THE SHEET
Anyone receiving Prescription Drug coverage – Medicare Part D (not a plan through a former employer) is asked to complete the following information and submit to Kathleen Kapusta at the Civic
Center as soon as possible.
DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 30
PLEASE PRINT
Name: Last, First, Middle Initial __________________________________________________________
Phone # ______________________________________ Date of Birth __________________________
Current Drug Plan Name ________________________ Preferred Drug Stores __________________
Are you on a Medicare Senior Advantage? _________ ______________________________________
Medicare # ___________________________________ Medicare A Effective Date _______________
(Must include ending letter of Medicare #)
Email _________________________________
ONLY list names of current prescriptions, dosage and frequency (do not state PRN or “as needed”)
DRUG
DOSAGE
FREQUENCY
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
Please list any additional medications on a separate sheet of paper.
4
OCTOBER 2011 | A
monthly publication of the
City
of I ndependence
POLICE DEPT.
Child Safety
HALLOWEEN SAFETY
• Make sure costumes are flame-retardant so the little ones aren’t in danger near burning jack-olanterns and other fire hazards.
• Keep costumes short to prevent tripping and falls.
• Use make-up instead of masks which can obstruct a child’s vision, especially when crossing streets
and using steps.
• Make sure kids wear light colors or put reflective tape on their costumes. They should also carry a
flashlight.
• Trick-or-treaters should always be in groups so they won’t be tempting targets—never let them go
out alone. Parents should always accompany young children.
• Map out a safe route with your children so that you, as a parent, will know where they will be. Tell
them to only stop at familiar homes where outside lights are on.
• Teach them to never enter a stranger’s home or approach a stranger’s car. Police will be on patrol. If
there is any kind of trouble, instruct your children to stop a police car and ask for assistance.
Dressed Up and Dangerous
The blood and gore of Halloween costumes are harmless fun during trick-or-treating. Dressing up
as a superhero, a pirate or an alien from outer space—coupled with the excitement of Halloween—
can sometimes bring out aggressive behavior. Even fake knives, swords, guns and other costume
accessories may hurt people. If these objects are part of a child’s costume, make sure they are made of
cardboard or other flexible materials that no one can get hurt from. Better yet, challenge your kids to
create costumes that don’t need “weapons” to be scary and fun.
Prevent Animal Bites from Haunting your Halloween
Dogs should not be on leashes with the owner greeting Trick-or-Treaters. Keep pets inside the home,
secured in a room so they cannot run away or defend their family from strangely dressed visitors. Strange
costumes, loud noises, fast movements and the excitement of children can cause
a dog to become frightened and bite out of fear.
Halloween Treats
Instruct your children not to eat treats until after they get home and the treats
are checked. One way to help keep them from raiding their treats is to feed them a meal or
snack before they go out. Check all treats at home in a well-lighted place and throw away
anything that is open or looks suspicious. Only unopened candies in their original wrappers
should be considered safe. Halloween can be a lot of fun for parents and children alike if
everyone remembers the tricks and treats of being safe.
Residents desiring assistance with checking Treat Bags can come to the Independence Police Department the evening of Halloween
5
www.ind ep en denceoh io.org
FIRE DEPT.
Fire Prevention Week
October 9th – 15th
More fires start in the kitchen than in any other part of the home. Why is the kitchen such a
danger zone? Too often people fail to pay attention to what's cooking, and the consequences can
be far worse than burned food. Like any home fire, cooking fires spread quickly, leaving you just
minutes to escape safely. Follow these tips for safer cooking:
Stand by Your Pan
• Most fires in the kitchen occur because cooking is left unattended. Stay in the kitchen when
you are frying, grilling, or broiling food.
• If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• If you are simmering, boiling, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer
to remind you that the stove or oven is on.
No Kids Allowed!
• Keep kids away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of 3 feet (1 meter) around the stove.
• When young children are in the home, use the stove's back burners whenever possible, and turn pot handles toward the back to
reduce the risk that pots with hot contents will be knocked over.
• Never hold a small child while cooking.
Keep It Clean!
• Keep anything that can catch fire—pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, towels or
curtains—away from your stove top.
• Clean food and grease from burners and the stove top.
• Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking. Clothing can catch fire if it comes in contact with a gas flame or
electric burner.
Microwave with Care!
• Plug the microwave oven directly into an outlet. Never use an extension cord for a microwave as it can
overload the circuit and cause a fire.
• Use only microwave-safe containers to heat food.
• Allow food to cool for a minute or more before removing it from the microwave.
• Open microwaved containers slowly, as hot steam escaping from the containers can cause painful
burns. Be sure to let food and liquid cool before eating.
• Never use aluminum foil or metal objects in a microwave oven. They can cause a fire or burn hazard
and damage the oven.
Kitchen Fires 101
While the following tips can help you put out a small kitchen fire, never forget how dangerous fire can be. If
you are unable to put out the fire, get out of the home and call the Fire Department. When in doubt, get out!
If you have a fire in your microwave, turn it off immediately and keep the door closed. Never open the
door until the fire is completely out. Unplug the appliance if you can safely reach the outlet.
• Always keep an oven mitt and a lid nearby when you're cooking. If a small grease fire starts in a pan,
smother the flames by carefully sliding the lid over the pan (make sure you are wearing the oven mitt).
Turn off the burner. To keep the fire from restarting, don't remove the lid until the pan is completely cool.
• In case of an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed to prevent flames from burning you or
your clothing.
• Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen in case of an emergency. Make sure that you know what type of fire the extinguisher will put out and how it works before an emergency occurs.
6
OCTOBER 2011 | A
monthly publication of the
City
of I ndependence
BUILDING DEPT.
Roofing Permits
The Building Department requires all contractors who do roofing in the City to obtain a permit for this work. This has been in place since
2009.
In the past, the Building Department only required a permit if wood under the shingles was being replaced. Now, a permit is required for
any roofing work being done by a contractor or homeowner, whether it is a tear off or just a shingle job. The contractor, or homeowner doing
the work, is responsible for getting inspections for ice guard, sheeting and a final inspection when the job is complete. All contractors must be
registered to do work in the City.
If you have any questions with regard to this process, please do not hesitate to contact the Building Department at (216) 524-1019.
“Storage of Vehicles – Codified Ordinance 660.24
(a) No person shall park or store, or permit to be parked or stored, outside of a garage or other enclosed structure, any junk motor
vehicle, or parts of motor vehicles or other scrap, junk or motor vehicle refuse, on any property in the Municipality, unless such person is operating a junk yard or scrap metal processing facility licensed under authority of Ohio R.C. 4737.05 to 4737.12, or under
authority of the municipality, or the person having the right to possession of the property can establish that such motor vehicle or
parts are part of a duly authorized or permitted business operation on such property.
(b) No motor vehicle not having a current annual license plate shall be parked or stored outside of a garage or other enclosed structure
on any property in the Municipality for more than ten days.
(c) No person shall store or permit to be stored on any lot or premises any dismantled or inoperative motor vehicle for more than three
days, unless the same is kept or stored in a completely enclosed building or garage on such lot or premises. Any such motor vehicle
shall be deemed inoperative when the lack or failure of the engine, transmission or other mechanical part results in the vehicle being
not usable for the transportation of persons. Such period of three days shall commence to run the next day following the service of
such notice.
(d) The Chief of Police or Building Inspector may send notice, by certified mail with return receipt requested and by regular mail, to
the person having the right to the possession of the property on which a motor vehicle or parts prohibited by this section are left,
that within five days of receipt of the notice such motor vehicle or parts shall either be covered by being housed in a garage or other
enclosed structure or shall be permanently removed from the property.
No person shall willfully leave such a motor vehicle or parts uncovered in the open for more than five days after receipt of a notice
as provided in this section. The fact that such motor vehicle or parts are so left is a prima-facie evidence of willful failure to comply
with the notice and a separate offense shall be deemed committed each subsequent period of five days that such motor vehicle or
parts continue to be so left.”
Anyone who has a vehicle or vehicles without current plates must store that vehicle or vehicles in a garage or other enclosed structure on their
property. Junk vehicle parts must also be stored in the same manner. Please note that vehicles with historic plates do not meet the annual license
plate provision.
If you have questions regarding this ordinance, please feel free to contact the Building Department at (216) 524-1019.
The Independence Garden Club’s
also enjoy the opportunity to take the indoor classroom outside. It’s not
unusual to see children learning math, doing artwork, making scientific
observations, and reading in the Primary Paradise.
In collaboration with the Primary School’s science teacher, Mrs.
Audino, the Garden Club helped establish a Root Vegetable Garden in
For 75 years, the Independence Garden Club
2008. Every spring, second and third grade students have the pleasure
has promoted conservation and environmental
of planting root vegetable seeds such as carrots, beets, radishes and
responsibility through the love of gardening
potatoes, to name a few. While students are on
by furthering the knowledge of wildlife and
summer break, the Independence Garden
plant-life within the community. Among
Club waters and maintains the garden
several community-based projects, the Garden
until students return in the fall. The
Club has volunteered at the Independence
students have the opportunity to harvest
Primary School developing and maintaining two
their vegetables in the fall and enjoy sharing
interactive gardens for teachers and students.
what they have grown with their fellow
Within the past five years, the Garden Club has
students. Every year a new plant is introduced
transformed the school’s central courtyard
to the garden, and this year it was pumpkins!
from a useless field of weeds to a meadowBased on research from Cornell University
like paradise. Adopting the name
and others, Garden-based Learning is believed to
“Primary Paradise,” this garden is
have many benefits, such as increased nutrition
regularly used by the school as an
awareness, environmental awareness, higher
outdoor learning center boasting
learning achievements and increased life skills.
themed gardens, such as a Butterfly
The Independence Garden Club is a volunteer
Garden, an Animal Garden and a
organization that fosters these ideas. To find out
Seasonal Garden. Not only can students
7 about plant taxonomy, insect and
www.ind
more about volunteering or joining the club, please
learn
amphibian ep en denceoh io.org
visit independenceohiogardenclub.org on the web.
life cycles, and the effects of climate change throughout the year, they
Garden-Based Learning at the Primary School
SERVICE DEPT.
Curbside Leaf Pickup Begins October 3
Department starting on January 2, 2012.
It is not necessary to call the Service Department to
have leaves picked up. Leaves should be
raked onto your TREELAWN.
Please DO NOT rake leaves into
the street, as this may create a
potential traffic hazard and may clog
catch basins, causing flooding conditions during hard rains and heavy
snowfall.
DO NOT mix yard waste, such as
branches, vines, and weeds, with the leaves.
These items tend to clog the vacuum tubes, causing unnecessary delays in the leaf pickup process. Foreign objects,
such as rakes, stones, rocks, etc., will break the vacuum
fins and disable the machine.
Because of the large volume of leaves at certain times,
there are no set times or dates for Leaf Pickup. Leaves will
be picked up into December as long as weather permits.
Chipper
Chipper service continues throughout the year. When
your branches are at the curb, call 524-9191 to schedule a
branch pickup.
Containers/Dumpsters
Containers/dumpsters will not be available from October 24, 2011 through April 2012. Call the Service Department in April 2012 to schedule containers/dumpsters.
Tents
Tent rental is available from May until October of each
year. To reserve your tent for 2012, please call the Service
Street Light Outages
CEI is responsible for street light pole outages, flickering, and damaged poles. Should you need assistance from
CEI for any of these items, call 1-800-589-3101 or visit
their website www.firstenergycorp.com.
Maple Shade Cemetery
All cut or artificial flowers, wreaths and other adornments will be removed on November 1 to make way for
Christmas wreaths.
Floral Policies
Fresh cut flowers are encouraged throughout the year.
Only 1 to 2 arrangements may be placed on any space at
one time. Fresh flowers will be checked every Friday and
removed at the direction of the Sexton if deteriorated.
For safety reasons, plant hangers of any kind, glass
containers, vases, adornments, etc., are not permitted at
any time, and will be removed by the Sexton if found on
gravesites.
Cemetery Hours
Maple Shade Cemetery is open for visitation from
sunup to sundown each day. Any person who trespasses
on graves, injures or damages trees, shrubs, or plants,
defaces monuments, buildings or enclosures, or found on
Cemetery property during times other than stated above,
will be prosecuted according to law.
For information on Maple Shade Cemetery, please call
the Service Department at (216) 524-9191.
ANIMAL CONTROL
Meet Lucy! She is a great dog up for adoption. Lucy has a
sad story and has been through a lot, but now she is a happy
girl looking for a good home.
Lucy was picked up running at large in Independence. She
has been to the vet, has been spayed and vaccinated. She tested
negative for heartworm and is on prevention. Lucy is in a foster
home with other dogs, small and large, and is ok with cats but a
little leery of them. Crate training has begun in her foster home
and she is housebroken and knows basic obedience.
Lucy is a wonderful dog and would be a great pet for a loving family…she is looking for her forever home. Even though
she was mistreated terribly, she has not lost faith in people!
Please call the Animal Control officer at 524-3940 if you are
interested in adopting Lucy.
8
OCTOBER 2011 | A
monthly publication of the
City
of I ndependence
Historically Speaking
By Wes Gaab
Whatever happened to sandboxes? What is a sandbox, you
ask? It’s just what it says. It’s a
box filled with sand—it’s for kids
to play in when they’re not at the
beach.
I haven’t researched this topic as a good author would, but I’m not
a very good author, so my opinions are based on memory and guessing.
I think I saw sandboxes advertised by one of the big box stores,
maybe K-Mart or Lowe’s. It was a small plastic container in the shape
of a seashell filled with white sand. Good for a two or three-year old
to fill a little pail…then dump it on the lawn.
I’m talking about “Sandboxes,” large sandboxes filled with regular
brown sand.
Let’s start with the sandbox I had. It measured about 4’ x 4’. It
sat out in the full sun, so my dad bought a small canvas tent with an
awning that covered the box. No sunburn for Wesley! You see, I was
an only child. When former Mayor Joe Kotabish was a kid, he would
come over with some of his trucks and cars, and we would build
roads, and sometimes even a castle. We would spend hours being
creative. Madeline Snodgrass Hasman would come over occasionally
and showed a mild interest in what we were building.
A sandbox was a “toy” that had a long, long shelf life. Not a toy
that was used a few times, only to be abandoned in favor of playing
with the box in which it came.
My dad got the sand from the Cuyahoga River. My uncle, Ed
Kurtz, farmed the valley. There was a place next to his cornfield where
the river made a sharp bend, leaving a nice sand bar that was easy to
get to. Every spring, my dad and I would go down and get a couple
buckets of sand to replace the sand that had eroded away.
Now, let me tell you about the mother of all sandboxes! My uncle
Ray Gaab, manager of the Hanna Estate, built a sandbox for his two
sons, Bob and Billy, that measured about 8’ x 8’. The sides were 1” x
10” boards nailed to four 4” x 4” corner posts. The river sand was at
least 18” deep at the center. Why such a large sandbox? It would allow
three or four boys to work on a “sand project” at the same time.
Living at a time when there weren’t any organized summer activities to occupy a boy’s time allowed us to be creative. We all had toy
cars, trucks, tractors, and, my favorite, the Tootsie Toy cars—all
metal replicas scaled to size with rubber tires—the real deal! We made
mountains, valleys, roads, lakes, bridges, houses—an entire countryside!
We would wet the sand first, so that it would pack hard and be
easy to mold. It also provided hard-surface roads for our cars and
trucks. We used weeds, grass, and twigs to simulate trees lining our
roads. We even ran an extension cord out to the box so we could run
Bob’s electric train. That was a masterpiece which made us proud.
There were two problems, however, with sandboxes. One was the
rain that would erase all of our work…but that was okay, because it
allowed us to create a different landscape. The other problem involved
cats…our sandbox was also the mother of all litter boxes!
BUILDING DEPT.
CITY COUNCIL NEWS
nthony Togliatti
A
Vice Mayor
Carl F. Asseff, M.D
Councilman
Jim Crooks
Councilman
A Message from Gregory J. O’Brien,
City Law Director Regarding the
“Emergency” Provision
Thomas Narduzzi
Councilman
James C. Piteo
Councilman
Jim Riley
Councilman
Patricia Wisnieski
Councilwoman
obligation shall take effect until 30 days after its final passage by City
Council. However, the Charter does allow an ordinance or resolution that has been passed to take immediate effect when at least five
members of Council state an “emergency” exists.
As Law Director, I am frequently asked to explain and interpret
Although the City’s Charter provides for only one regular Counthe City’s Charter. Recently, a question was raised “Why does City
cil meeting per month, members of City Council and the City’s
Council pass legislation declaring an emergency for much of its
Administration meet frequently throughout each month. Council
legislation?” To a resident who does not closely follow City business,
has seven sub-committees that have meetings, and there are special
it may appear that such action is rushed without much debate. Noth- purpose meetings and workshops that are called. At all of these
ing could be further from the truth.
meetings, members of the City’s Administration are in attendance.
The City’s Charter provides that ordinances or resolutions should Therefore, many, if not all, of the issues that eventually lead to
be fully and distinctly read on two different days, unless five memordinances and resolutions have been thoroughly discussed in subbers of Council vote to suspend this rule. The City’s Charter also
committee meetings or workshops which are all advertised and open
9provides that no ordinance or resolution
of a general
permanent
www.ind
eporen
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to the
public.
nature, or involving the expenditure of funds or creating a right or
For example, Resolution No. 2011-88, which was passed by
Council on September 13th on an emergency authorizing the purchase
of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for distribution by the Fire
Department to City households relative to the Lifeline program. This
equipment will certainly enhance the safety of our seniors and special
needs individuals who participate in the Lifeline program. September 13th was not the first time Council and the City’s Administration
were asked to consider this purchase. The City’s Fire Department
worked for over six months compiling information for review and
consideration by the City. Also, on June 13, 2011, a public meeting
of the Safety Committee was held where members of Council, the
Administration, Fire Department, and the public were in attendance,
and discussion took place about this proposed purchase, including the
benefits this safety equipment will have on the City’s residents. All in
attendance and even those that were not present were free to provide
their thoughts on the equipment purchase. Two and half months later,
and presumably after all questions had been satisfied, Resolution No.
2011-88 came before Council for passage. If Council did not include
an emergency provision in this resolution, the City would not be able
to purchase (or even order) this safety equipment until on or after
October 13th.
Therefore, although it is Council’s prerogative to declare an emergency, in doing so, it should not be interpreted as Council not having
taken the time to evaluate the proposed action and how it may benefit
the City and its residents.
COUNCIL MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2011
Mayor Gregory Kurtz called the meeting to order at 7:25 p.m.
Present were Council Members Dr. Asseff, Crooks, Narduzzi, Piteo,
Riley, Togliatti and Wisnieski. Also present were Law Director
O’Brien, Engineer Ramm, Technical Services Director Avsec, Service
Director Snyderburn, Asst. Recreation Director Walchanowicz, Building Commissioner Opatrny, Interim Fire Chief Rega and Deputy
Chief Kotabish. Absent were Finance Director Veres, Recreation
Director Kostyack, and Police Chief Nicastro.
Father Pete Coletti from St. Michael’s Church said the Prayer.
Resident Beverly Togliatti said a prayer in honor of the 10th anniversary of 9-11. The Pledge of Allegiance followed.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of the August 10,
2011 were approved.
healthy financial reserves, a lack of reliance on uncertain state revenue
sources.”
A strong and favorable Debt Rating because of “stable financial operations” does not happen by accident. It takes a concerted effort from
Council, Administrative Team, including the Finance Department
Team, the Collective Bargaining Units, as well as all Team members,
working together for the greater good of the City, to achieve such
recognition and results.
I personally thank members of Council, my Administrative Team,
the Finance Team, the Collective Bargaining Team members and all
City Team Members for recognizing the financial challenges that governmental units at all levels, including Independence, have had to deal
with these past few years. To have the City’s outstanding Debt Rating
reaffirmed after coming through these challenging years is a testament
to what we can accomplish when we all work together for the common good of the community!
As far as legislation on tonight’s Agenda, Resolution 2011-85
amends the 2011-2012 Creek Maintenance Contract with Geotech
Services so that a total of over $360,000 will be spent under this contract resolving various flood issues, be they flooded basements, sanitary
sewer back-ups, or creeks that are eroding or flooding. We will continue to have Geotech, the Service Department and the Engineering
Department systematically work through the various flood issues that
we have had to deal with due to the two recent “top Ten” Northeast
Ohio rainstorms.
I am proud to be a co-introducer of Ordinance 2011-40, which
would direct all material and significant non-reoccurring revenue of
the City to various funds, including the Debt Service Fund, the Capital Improvements/Infrastructure Fund, the Self-Insurance Fund, the
Compensated Absences Fund, and the Rainy Day Fund.
Resolution 2011-86 accepts the tax amounts and rates for Independence as determined by the County Budget Commission. Of
the approximately 55 Mills per Thousand Dollars of Valuation that
Independence property owners pay in real estate taxes, the City only
receives 1.9 of those Mills for the General Fund and 0.30 Mills for
the Police Pension Funds. Such low property tax Millage rates for
Independence allows us to still enjoy the lowest property tax rates of
any city within Cuyahoga County.
FINANCE DIRECTOR – VERES
Finance Director Veres was absent, therefore no
report.
MAYOR’S REPORT
Mayor Kurtz reported, the City of Independence will be refinancing some of its long-term bonds over the next few weeks to lock in
today’s low interest rates and save the City hundreds of thousands of
dollars in interest payments.
In order for the City to “go to market” and refinance those bonds,
it was necessary to make a presentation to Moody’s and make the case
for the City’s sound financial position. After listening to the presentation and completing its analysis, Moody’s affirmed the City’s very
favorable Aa1 Credit Rating, and said:
“The Aa1 rating reflects the city’s moderately-sized tax base…
stable financial operations supported by healthy reserves, and…manageable debt burden.
The city’s financial operations are expected to remain stable due to
10
OCTOBER 2011 | A
CITY ENGINEER – RAMM
City Engineer Ramm reported, the Engineering
Department wishes to report the following items
from this past month’s activities:
Two site plans for new homes were submitted,
one for Sublot 19 Lake Charles Drive, the other for
Sublot 1-A Daisy Avenue.
Two right-of-way permits were issued, one for a
new gas connection at 5001 Cypress Point, another for a gas main
repair at 8008 Brookside Road.
We continue to coordinate with the Service Department and our
Maintenance Contractors to clean creeks and install backflow valves
on house sewer lines that experienced sanitary sewer backups in the
monthly publication of the
City
of I ndependence
recent heavy rain events. We have televised the entire neighborhood of
Elmwood, Wood, Sunset and Chestnut, and will soon be commencing with smoke and dye-testing the system in this area. Televising
of the Brookside system will also be scheduled. We will continue to
systematically address the flooding concerns that have been identified
throughout the City one property at a time.
In the vein of drainage concerns, Resolution 2011-90 will allow
for the hiring of a consultant to study the Lower Brookside Watershed
utilizing a low-interest loan program from the Ohio EPA. The study
will help us identify problems and solutions to improve flooding and
stream degradation within the watershed. The study will take place
over the fall, and should conclude this December.
Final paving operations were completed yesterday on the Hillside
Road resurfacing project. The contractor will likely continue working
throughout the month on final restoration, signing and striping.
Fabrizi Trucking & Paving on the Selig Project has completed
most of the curbing and paving work on the south (main) ITC drive.
They have completed the repairs to the large headwall near the scenic
waterfall area and have begun sidewalk work across the ITC and Cemetery frontage. We eagerly await final utility relocation and utility pole
removals on both sides of Brecksville Road as well as along the north
side of existing Selig. This work, once complete, will allow continued
construction of the new concrete roadway to its westerly limit which is
just east of the Fire Department driveway.
Lastly, Resolutions 2011-93 and 94 pertain to slope stability issues
on Hillside Road located east and west of the existing large soldier
pile retaining wall that overlooks the Valley. Geotechnical engineers
from URS will analyze and evaluate the slope failures and perform a
feasibility study on how best to repair the slides. They will generate
cost estimates for the recommended alternatives. They will also assist
the City with the preparation of an Ohio Public Works Commission
Grant Application for State Issue 1 funding. These applications are
due at the end of the month for the 2012 program year.
OFFICIALS’ REPORTS
BUILDING COMMISSIONER
– OPATRNY
Commissioner Opatrny reported that foundations have started for the 4th and 5th homes in the
Twin Creeks development and the second home is
nearing completion. One new home at Lake Charles
has been submitted for approval.
At the ITC addition, interior work is nearing
completion. Occupancy is scheduled for the end of the year.
Work is nearing completion on the Melt restaurant at Liberty
Commons which will open soon. Work continues on the Nationwide
Insurance Field Office.
Babushkas restaurant in the Town Square Shopping Center is
scheduled to open soon.
Demolition of the VFW building is in progress.
COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
– BUC
Director Buc submitted the following report to
the Clerk of Council. Youth fall programs begin this
week.
We are now accepting Snow Removal Service
signup forms at the Civic Center in the Community
Services Department.
11
Our condolences go out to the Medvec family on the loss of
Laura’s mother, Audrey Yahnkow, who worked at the Civic Center in
the Community Services Department.
INTERIM FIRE CHIEF – REGA
Interim Chief Rega reported, the Fire Department has two resolutions on tonight's agenda. The first is Resolution 2011-87 for the
purchase of a new ambulance through the State Cooperative Purchasing Program. This acquisition is part of our 5-Year Capital Purchase
Plan. The new ambulance will be replacing a twelve year old vehicle
currently in operation. With this purchase we will have completed the
standardization of all three of our ambulances. They will all be of the
same size and type. We currently rotate the use of these vehicles on a
daily basis to ensure efficient operation and maintenance time.
The second Resolution tonight is 2011-88, which accepts the bid
from MFS Supply for the purchase of smoke and carbon monoxide
detectors. These detectors will be purchased with funds we received
from a FEMA Fire Prevention Grant. As outlined in the grant request,
they will be available to residents participating in our Lifeline program.
Finally, I’d like to remind everyone that Fire Prevention Week is
early in October. It will run from October 9 to 15, and our firefighters
will once again be visiting our schools to teach fire safety.
POLICE CHIEF – NICASTRO
Chief Nicastro submitted the following report to
the Clerk of Council. As low as our crime rate is in
Independence, there are people with criminal intent
that pass through our City. Crime prevention starts
with the basics: When you are not home, or are out in
your yard, keep your doors locked. Taking this simple
precaution will prevent most home burglaries and will
send would be thieves elsewhere. If you are in your home and receive
an unexpected knock at the door, keep the door locked, but acknowledge the stranger. Tell them you are not interested if they are soliciting, or tell them you are calling the police if they ask for help. If you
do not acknowledge your presence, a thief may assume the house is
empty and attempt to gain entry. Placing a "NO SOLICITORS" sign
on or near your front door will also discourage this type of activity.
These adhesive signs are available from the Police Department.
Whenever you leave your vehicle unattended, keep the doors
locked and anything of value out of sight. This applies even if your car
is parked in your driveway, and especially if you leave your car outside
overnight. It takes only seconds for a passerby to steal valuables from
your car that is left unattended and unsecured.
September is National Preparedness Month. Recent natural
disasters, such as tornados in the Midwest and hurricanes on the East
Coast, and the 10th anniversary of 911, should remind everyone to be
prepared for serious emergencies. Nothing the government provides
may be as important as the preparation that you and your family can
take in advance. Keeping basic supplies on hand, planning where to
go and staying informed are important. Two excellent sources of information to help you prepare for emergencies are online at www.Ready.
gov and www.redcross.org.
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RECREATION DIRECTOR
– KOSTYACK
Asst. Recreation Director Walchanowicz reported,
as the summer comes to a close, we would like to
take this opportunity to thank all our summer staff
for their hard work and commitment. It takes a lot of
dedication and teamwork in order for our programs and operations to
run smoothly and successfully.
The ICAN! Softball program will be ending the week of September
20. There are still a few ICAN! Home Days cookbooks available. If you
are interested in one, please contact Val Troiano at 216-524-3262, or
they will be available at Fall Fest.
I am happy to announce that we have a new soccer program which
will be starting later this week. It is soccer for three and four year olds.
So far, there are over 30 children signed up, which will make six teams.
Flag football will be starting this week. There are five teams with
over 60 children participating. Games are played on Tuesday and
Thursday evenings on Field No. 1.
We are now taking registration for our youth basketball program,
which will begin in November. The program is for grades 3, 4, 5 and
6. Games are played on Saturday mornings and on some weeknights.
Anyone interested in becoming a coach, please call the Recreation
Department at 524-3262.
The Recreation Department collected over $200 at the 6th Annual
Dog Swim. Even with the rain, we still managed to have over 100 dogs
participate. The proceeds will go to the Independence Animal Shelter.
STANDING COMMITTEE
REPORTS
ASSEFF – ECONOMIC GROWTH
& DEVELOPMENT
No report.
NARDUZZI – PUBLIC LANDS & BUILDINGS
Councilperson Narduzzi stated, I have to respond to Mr. Anthony
Togliatti’s statement on the emergency clause in legislation. Don’t make
it sound like Council doesn’t go over these five year capital purchases.
If you had a rebuttal about that which was four or five years in the
making, say something at that point. Don’t make it sound like we pass
these, and don’t talk enough. Everything we go through, Mr. Togliatti, is sent to committee or talked about in Committee. Nothing is a
surprise when we come here. We have these packets. They’re talked out,
so “emergency” is the word used, but we’re not doing it to bypass the
system. It’s a word that has to be used legally, so we don’t have to wait
30 days to enact the legislation. I’m sure the Mayor is going to have a
better description than I’ve given. But, the point I’m trying to make is
you’re making it sound like we’re doing something not above the table.
That’s what I don’t like.
Councilperson Riley asked Vice Mayor Togliatti, do you understand
the concept? As Vice Mayor, do you understand that concept?
Vice Mayor Togliatti replied, I.
Councilperson Riley continued, you just sat in a room with our
lawyer, the Mayor, and every one of us. Do you understand that
concept, or was that just because it’s election time that you wanted to
SERVICE DIRECTOR
do that and play to the crowd that we’re passing this on an emergency
– SNYDERBURN
when the Chief said five years ago that we’re setting aside money for
Director Snyderburn stated, I would like to conthis squad?
gratulate all the residents for doing a fantastic job of
Mayor Kurtz replied, okay.
recycling. To date we’ve collected $28,286.77 for recyCouncilperson Riley replied, no. I don’t want it to end there, becling material. Last year we probably paid out around
cause I want to make sure. As Vice Mayor he should understand that.
$15,000 to get our materials recycled. We get paid for
He should understand what that term means.
recycling material based on the commodities trade in
Vice Mayor Togliatti replied, and I do understand, Jim. And, I
the world market. I can’t emphasize enough that 80%
think we could have put a lot of legislation that we passed in the past
of your garbage is recyclable. If we could get 100% recycling in the
on emergency on first reading, and on second reading.
City, it would be wonderful. Every time we empty one of our garbage
Councilperson Riley replied, wait a minute. But if we put this on
trucks at the dump, and we do it daily, it costs over $600. If we could
first read and we put it on second reading, all the word “emergency”
recycle that and get paid for it, it would be a big plus for the City. All
means is when we pass it tonight and the Mayor signs it tonight or
in all, we’re doing a good job in comparison with other communities in
tomorrow, the Chief can order that squad. If we don’t pass it on emerCuyahoga County. We rank number seven or eight.
gency, when the Mayor signs it tomorrow, the Chief would have to wait
I see John Cengic is here tonight. He volunteers his help all the
30 days to order that squad. Do you understand that’s what it means?
time. One of the many things he helped us with is putting the cupola
Vice Mayor Togliatti replied, I understand that. We planned for
on the Gazebo. I want to thank him for all of his help.
four years for this. So, if we had put it on the agenda last month, we
It will be leaf season pretty soon. We have all our leaf machines
would have waited 30 days, and then there would have been today.
ready. Be patient. We’ll attempt to pick them up every garbage day.
Councilperson Riley replied, no. We would still have to wait 30
days, so I don’t think you do understand.
TECHNICAL SERVICES DIRECTOR
Vice Mayor Togliatti replied, I understand it, Jim. There are a lot of
– AVSEC
other issues we passed on emergency that weren’t necessarily emergency.
Director Avsec reported, the ASHREA Level II
Councilperson Riley replied, right, okay, so you don’t understand.
energy audit is complete, and we will begin budgetMayor Kurtz stated, you gentlemen can debate that and I’ll have the
ing for and implementing the energy conservation
Law Director participate in that. This is a Council Meeting and we’re
measures identified in the audit based on their cost
going to continue with Council business.
and length of payback time.
Councilperson Narduzzi reported, the Planning Commission did
The installation of Roof Top Units A/C 4 for the aerobics room and
not meet in the month of September due to a lack of applicants.
A/C 7 for the upstairs track on the recreation side, are complete. Both
As of now, the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections will not be
heating and cooling are operating at one hundred percent and through
mailing out a vote by mail application form to request an absentee balthe building automation system.
lot for the November 8th elections. You may obtain a vote by mail form
The light bollards for the Gazebo walkways are scheduled for
by calling the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections at 216-443-3298,
delivery the first week of October. Installation will immediately follow
12
OCTOBER 2011 | A monthly publication
of the
City of Independence
or by emailing
to www.boe.cuyahogacounty.us.
receipt.
On the agenda tonight is Resolution 2011-85, a Resolution autho-
rizing Change Order No. 1 to the 2011-2012 Creek Maintenance and
Repairs contract. Due to the recent storms, an abundance of flooding
issues and sewer backups were reported. The additional $225,000 has,
and will help to eliminate many of these issues.
Even more important is Resolution 2011-90, a Resolution accepting the proposal for professional engineering services in connection
with the lower Brookside Watershed Study. This study will help determine the source and remedy for many of the flooding locations in the
southern part of Independence. At a total cost of $60,000, the City has
been awarded a low interest loan from the EPA for $50,000 to perform
this study.
The Mayor, Council, and the Service Department, among countless
others, have done a great job in helping the victims of the recent floods,
but without a master plan to eliminate the source of the problem,
we are only administering a band-aid to a serious problem. Although
$60,000 sounds like a lot of money for another study, it must be done
to structure a detailed plan to eliminate costly flooding repairs for our
residents.
Fall is in the air, and Old Man Winter is not far behind. Seniors,
don’t forget to sign up for Senior Snow Plowing.
CROOKS – FINANCE COMMITTEE
nity felt over the past weeks. I know the flooding issue hasn’t been fun
for a lot of residents. And, although we may not have the magic bullet,
as members of Council and the Administration, I just want to let the
community know that we are working on finding solutions. We may
not have been quickly able to respond to you, but I know that as you
drive through the City you’ll see the crews are out and we are responding. There was a list of over 100 residents who were impacted negatively by this flooding. The City is doing all that it can, at least at this point
from our perspective, to try and address that problem. If you’re not on
the list, or do have a problem, I encourage you to call the City. Any one
of the Council Members can respond to you. You can also contact the
Mayor’s Office. We’re trying to systematically work our way through
the problem areas in town. And, as reported by Engineer Ramm tonight, we’re going to be spending $361,000 for an outside contractor to
come in and continue work that that contractor has already begun.
As Councilperson Narduzzi mentioned, we’re going to be spending
around $50,000 on a study of the Brookside Road watershed, and we’re
buying a camera tonight for our sewer crews. That’s nearly $500,000
just tonight that we’re going to spend trying to fix the problems that
we’ve experienced in the last couple of weeks. We don’t have all the answers, and I have a feeling that this isn’t the last of the money that we’ll
spend. I’m sure we’ll spend more in the future on what is happening.
Councilperson Piteo, Chairperson of the Utilities & Sewers Committee, has held two meetings. Residents came to those meetings,
and I think all of Council was either at one meeting or the other, or a
combination of both. The residents had a chance to sound off. We are
hearing your concerns, and continue to encourage the community to
let us know how we can continue to help. We’ll try to work to address
the issues.
Councilperson Crooks to add onto Director Snyderburn’s earlier
comments. Dan, you can tell John to add the Historical Society to the
list. He’s been up at the Bramley House helping out.
I have three things to report on tonight. There are a number of
pieces of legislation that I’d like to make quick comments on that have
been referred to the Finance Committee.
First, is a concept that introduces and proposes the creation of a
Rainy Day Fund. For years we talked about having a fund, but we
really don’t have a fund. So this legislation proposes the creation of a
PITEO – UTILITIES COMMITTEE
Rainy Day Fund, so we can set money aside for a rainy day. This is beChairman Piteo stated, it’s going to be a short report since Engineer
ing referred to the Finance Committee.
Ramm, Councilperson Narduzzi, and Councilperson Crooks pretty
Secondly, we revisit an issue that was talked about earlier in the
much talked about everything there is to talk about.
year – the creation of, and ultimately the funding of a Compensated
I would like to say that our town realized an unprecedented amount
Absences Fund. There are absences for all the employees who work for
of rainfall in a span of just four weeks. There were only six days since
the City. They’re given certain sick time, personal time, vacation time.
1900, the span of 111 years, where it rained more than 3 ½ inches in
If they don’t use them, they’re able to cash them in at some point. If
one day. July 19, 2011, and August 14, 2011 are two of those six days.
everyone were to cash them in tomorrow, it would be about $750,000.
In fact, by the time I finish giving this update, a 50-year old record will
That’s a lot of money. The State Auditor, over the years, has required us
have been broken for the amount of rainfall in one year.
to list this as a liability, and we really don’t have it funded. So, last year
I want to thank the Service Department and the Engineering
during the budget process we talked about creating a fund and fundDepartment for all their hard work. I want to thank the guys who had
ing it. We revisited it earlier this year. This legislation brings the topic
to go into basements where there was raw sewage and clean up. There
back to light again before we start the budgeting process for 2012 – the
were big problems with the last rain.
creation and funding of a Compensated Absences Fund.
There is a little shining light in this though. Director Snyderburn
The third piece of legislation - everyone knows now that we have
mentioned in the last Utilities & Sewers Meeting that even though this
this windfall of $4 million in estate tax. This piece of legislation
was a bad event, less than 200 people called with problems. After the
establishes some parameters for where that money will go – not only
flood of 2006, there were over 400 people who called with problems.
this money, but any non-regularly re-occurring, unplanned windfall of
So, the City has really been active with the maintenance contracts and
money. We talked about this in Committee – establishing some paramthe way they’re going about business to solve these problems, but, it’s
eters. This piece of legislation begins to bring the conversation to light.
going to take a lot more money, and a lot more time.
It will be referred to the Finance Committee.
I want to reach out to the residents and say thank you very much
Another piece of legislation is Ordinance 2011-38, an amendment
for your patience. It is very much appreciated. If you feel like yelling at
to our appropriation ordinance. I just want to let the community
someone, I think myself and everyone sitting up here will listen. Everyone has been listening.
know that we’re shifting money between funds. This is not an upward
increase in our budget.
RILEY – STREETS & SIDEWALKS COMMITTEE
I would also like to report that the Finance Committee will begin
Councilperson Riley stated, it has been ten years since the terrorists’
the budgeting process for 2012 in the next couple of weeks. Typically,
attacks on the United States. I’d like to ask for a moment of silence to
about this time of year, the end of September, early part of October, we
remember all those who lost their lives. Thank you.
begin to talk about the revenues, expenditures, and our major expenses
As far as road projects, the City Engineer mentioned that the final
for the subsequent year. We will begin that process at the end of the
13
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of pavement was put on Hillside Road yesterday. They still have
month.
a few things that need to be touched up, but, overall, the project proFinally, I just want to address the storm situation that the commu-
gressed smoothly. We got the new culvert pipe in before they did the
paving, so this time we put the horse in front of the cart.
ODOT is continuing the work on the Chestnut Road Bridge.
Work is progressing quickly. There were some holdups due to the rainy
weather, but it’s moving along.
As far as Pleasant Valley, the intersection is complete, and the paving of Pleasant Valley is complete.
As Streets & Sidewalks Chair, I received a letter from resident Meg
Moreal, who lives on Ivandale. She wanted to express her thanks to
Council and the Administration for widening the intersection. She
drives it everyday, and she says the traffic is flowing smoothly because
of the new right turn only lanes.
The Police Department has the traffic signalization perfected.
Also, to all residents, drive carefully. You’ll notice that throughout
the City there is quite a bit of catch basin work being done. In addition, there is also some concrete work being done on various roads.
Please slow down when you’re going through those areas. Look out for
the workers.
TOGLIATTI – COMMUNITY SERVICES
tor explain in the next newsletter the emergency provision in legislation, so that the public can understand it more clearly. [See page 9 for
explanation.]
WISNIESKI – SAFETY/RULES & ORDINANCES
COMMITTEE
Chairperson Wisnieski reported, from the Safety Committee, the
Safety Committee is sponsoring two pieces of legislation on tonight’s
agenda.
First is Resolution 2011-88, accepting the bid of MFS Supply
for the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors for the Fire
Department. The legislation is in the amount of $29,996. The Fire Department applied for, and was awarded a grant from FEMA Assistance
to Firefighters Grants Program in the amount of $28,500. The City’s
share will be the balance of the purchase not to exceed $1,500. The
distribution by the Fire Department will be generally to the households
in the Lifeline Program.
Great job to the Independence Fire Department and the Administration with their efforts to seek alternative funding for these type
programs.
The second piece of legislation is Resolution 2011-87, authorizing
the purchase of a 2010 Ford E450 diesel ambulance for the Independence Fire Department in an amount not to exceed $147,910, and
which will be purchased through the State Cooperative Purchasing
Program. This purchase has been done as part of our Five-Year Capital
Improvement Program, in which we set aside funds over the course of
several years in anticipation of purchasing a major piece of equipment.
Congratulations go out to my Dalebrook neighbors, Francie and
Ray Surace, who held a garage sale and raised over $4,000 this year
in support of the Buddy Walk. This event was established in 1995 by
the National Downs Syndrome Society to celebrate Downs Syndrome
Awareness Month in the month of October, and to promote acceptance
and inclusion of people with Downs Syndrome. If you would like to
learn more, please visit www.buddywalk.org.
Also coming up in October is National Breast Cancer Awareness
Month. Early detection is key, so this is a reminder to all of you to continue to do your self-exams, and schedule your annual mammogram.
Screening saves lives. If breast cancer is found early, there are more
treatment options, and a better chance for survival.
A congratulations shout out also goes to Independence resident
Jim Koenig, a tax attorney at Thompson Hine, who was named one
of Cleveland’s best lawyers in 2011. Jim is married to Sandy Koenig,
and they have two children, Emily, a freshman at Dayton, and Julie, a
sophomore at Holy Name.
Today is September 13, which is my husband and my 20th wedding
anniversary. I would like to wish him a Happy Anniversary publicly.
We have been blessed in so many ways along this journey. I am so
grateful for all the blessings.
Finally, just some comments regarding September 11 ten years later.
This past week has been filled with many tributes and remembrances of
that tragic day ten years ago. We lost not only over 3,000 of our loved
ones, but the country lost a feeling of peace and security. We may never
forget the grief, the heroism, and how the nation pulled together during the beginning of the healing process in the days, months, and years
that followed. Remember how proud you were to be an American.
Keep that in mind when you’re thinking about the current market condition, and any circumstances you’ve faced in your daily life. We are a
resilient nation. We have always the strength and courage to overcome.
We will continue to persevere and become much stronger.
Vice Mayor Togliatti reported, now that the summer concerts on
the Square are over, the Farmer’s Market is winding down, and the kids
are back in school, it’s time to prepare for fall and winter.
Please check the recent Spotlight for the senior snow plowing applications. These applications can be returned to the Community Services
desk at the Civic Center.
The Kiwanis Club is hosting its 80th Annual Chicken BBQ on
September 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Kiwanis Pavilion in
Elmwood Park.
The following Sunday, September 25, marks the City’s annual Fall
Fest from noon to 4:00 p.m. in Elmwood Park. Please bring your family to the park to enjoy delicious food, and great entertainment while
reconnecting with your neighbors.
As we are all aware, the City received an estate tax windfall in excess
of $4 million this year. We have the creation of a Rainy Day Fund on
tonight’s agenda. Though Council has not specifically discussed how
this money will be utilized, I am happy to know that it will be saved for
future necessary expenditures.
The Mining Committee will hold a meeting on Wednesday, October 5 at 7:00 p.m. in the Red Oak Room at the Civic Center, to discuss
the lease extension of DiGeronimo Aggregates. Residents living close to
the Mine will receive notification of the meeting in the mail.
During my tenure on Council, we have worked diligently toward
bold, strategic planning, and have achieved this goal through the
creation of our Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan. Tonight, we are
approving the purchase of a new ambulance for the Fire Department
at a cost of almost $150,000. As a result of this strategic plan, Council
has saved money every year for the past four years to apply toward this
ambulance. This purchase demonstrates Council’s ability to plan and
budget for the future, and I applaud Council for this.
One question I must bring to the forefront, however, is if we
planned for this purchase for four years, why is it on tonight’s agenda
as an emergency purchase? In fact, the vast majority of items passed by
Council are passed on an emergency basis. Our strategic planning process should certainly minimize the number of emergency issues, as we
plan five years out for major purchases and projects. I would like to see
a different approach in the future, and urge Council and the Administration to place items on first reading and then second reading. This
practice will allow residents, Council, and City workers adequate time
to research and discuss issues before they are voted on, as well as place
Council in a more proactive light in the eyes of the residents.
Lastly, I’d like to send my condolences to the Labella, Murukis,
SECONDofREADING
14
OCTOBER
the C ity of I ndependence
Medvec,
Paterniti, and
Rini families. 2011 | A monthly publication
ORDINANCE 2011-03 An Ordinance amending certain provisions of
Mayor Kurtz stated, by way of explanation, I’ll have the Law DirecChapter 1380 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Indepen-
LEGISLATION
dence relating to controlling construction site soil erosion, sediment
and other wastes and storm water runoff and declaring an emergency. Enacted 7 yes/0 no.
ORDINANCE 2011-04 An Ordinance amending certain provisions of
Chapter 1381 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Independence relating to controlling post-construction water quality runoff
and declaring an emergency. Enacted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-85 A Resolution authorizing Change Order No.
1 to the 2011-2012 Creek Maintenance and Repairs Contract with
Geotech Services, Inc. and declaring an emergency. (In the amount
of $225,000; not to exceed $361,675.) Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
FIRST READING
ORDINANCE 2011-38 2011 Amended Annual Appropriation Ordinance and declaring an emergency. Enacted 7 yes/0 no.
ORDINANCE 2011-39 An Ordinance creating the Rainy Day Fund
and declaring an emergency. Placed on First Reading and referred
to the Finance Committee.
ORDINANCE 2011-40 An Ordinance directing all material and significant non-re-occurring revenue to designated City funds and declaring an emergency. (Directing the estate tax money, $4.4 million,
to specific existing or newly created funds.) Placed on First Reading
and referred to the Finance Committee.
RESOLUTION 2011-86 A Resolution accepting the amounts and
rates as determined by the Budget Commission and authorizing the
necessary tax levies and certifying them to the County Fiscal Officer
and declaring an emergency. Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-87 A Resolution authorizing the purchase of
a 2010 Ford E-450 Diesel Ambulance for the Fire Department
through the State Cooperative Purchasing Program and declaring an
emergency. (Not to exceed $147,910.) Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-88 A Resolution accepting the bid of MFS Supply for smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors for the Fire
Department and declaring an emergency. (Not to exceed $29,996.)
Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-89 A Resolution authorizing the expenditure of
funds to the City Plans Examiner for various professional services for
the year 2011 and declaring an emergency. (Authorizing $15,000;
not to exceed $50,000.) Adopted 6 yes/1 no (W).
RESOLUTION 2011-90 A Resolution accepting the proposal of Chagrin Valley Engineering, Limited for professional engineering services
in connection with the Lower Brookside Watershed Study – EPA
W.P.C.L.F. and declaring an emergency. (Not to exceed $60,000.)
Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-91 A Resolution authorizing Contract Modification No. 1 to the Independent Contractor Agreement with Clark
Merdes, P.E. to provide general engineering and surveying services to
the Engineering Department and declaring an emergency. (An additional $10,000; total not to exceed $25,000.) Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
gency. (In the amount of $25,968.14; not to exceed $245,968.14.)
Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-93 A Resolution authorizing Contract Modification No. 1 to the General Engineering Agreement with URS
Corporation to provide general engineering and surveying services
to the Engineering Department and declaring an emergency. (In the
amount of $15,000; total not to exceed $30,000.) Adopted 7 yes/0
no.
RESOLUTION 2011-94 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor to apply
for a grant from the Ohio Public Works Commission State Capital
Improvement and/or Local Transportation Improvement Program(s)
and to execute contracts as required and declaring an emergency.
(In connection with Hillside Road (east) Slide Control Project.)
Adopted 7 yes/0 no.
RESOLUTION 2011-95 A Resolution accepting the proposal of White
Cap Construction Supply for the purchase and delivery of sewer
camera equipment and declaring an emergency. (Not to exceed
$18,975.81.) Adopted 6 yes/0 no/1 abstain (R).
MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
There were no objections to a new liquor permit being issued for
Walgreen Co., DBA Walgreens 02132, 6900 Rockside Road, Independence, OH 44131.
There being no further business to discuss, the Regular Council
Meeting was adjourned at 8:23 p.m.
Minutes of the Council Meeting(s) are unapproved at the time of this
publication and have been condensed. These minutes will be available in
their entirety at the Clerk of Council’s Office after they have been approved.
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
August 18, 2011
6920 Grandview Drive, Timothy Lesh – Denied a variance to permit a
boat to be parked in the driveway (not permitted).
4811 Chestnut Road, Jennifer Rega, represented by Rinello Builders
– Granted, with conditions for one year, a variance to allow more than
four spaces per dwelling unit (not permitted) and a variance to permit
parking area in the side yard (not permitted).
8325 Hillside Road, Enrico Casentini, represented by Rinello Builders – Granted a variance of 456 sq. ft. to permit a 44’ x 30’ three-car
garage (864 sq. ft. permitted – 36’ x 24’; 1,320 sq. ft. requested – 44’ x
30’).
6700 Rockside Road, Melt Bar & Grilled, represented by Signature
Sign – Granted a variance of 136.75 sq. ft. to permit a 196.75 sq. ft.
wall sign which includes logo (60 sq. ft. permitted, 196.75 sq. ft. requested); and a variance of 26.5 sq. ft. to allow a 38.5 sq. ft. second sign
on the rear of building (12 sq. ft. permitted, 38.5 sq. ft. requested).
6204 Elmarge Drive, Thomas Kundmueller – Granted a variance of 4’
to permit the location of a 10’ x 14’ accessory building 6’ from the rear
property line (10’ required, 6’ requested).
PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 2011-92 A Resolution authorizing Change Order No.
September 6, 2011
1 and final payment to the agreement with Vandra Brothers ConThe
Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Tuesday, September
15struction, Inc. for emergency sewer
www.ind
ep enwith
denceoh
io.org
repairs in connection
the
6, 2011, was cancelled due to lack of applicants.
Pleasant Valley Road Resurfacing Project and declaring an emer-
HAPPY
HALLOWEEN
PRST STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Cleveland, Ohio
Permit No. 2754
6800 Brecksville Road
Independence, OH 44131-5045
Remember to Vote on
General Election Day Tuesday,
November 8, 2011
Polls Open 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Applications to Vote by Mail are available
at City Hall, Community Services and the
Independence Library, or you can call the
Board of Elections at 216-443-3298 or
visit www.boe.cuyahogacounty.us.
SAVE THE DATE OCTOBER 2011
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Columbus Day
Mayor’s
Listening Night
5:00–6:00 p.m.
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9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Kiwanis
Community Garage
Sale at Elmwood
Recreation Center
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Fire Prevention Week
7:00 p.m. Council
Meeting
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5
Architectural
Board of Review
Meeting 8:30 a.m.
City Annex
7:00 p.m.
Planning
Commission
Meeting
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Deadline for the
October 19
Architectural Board
of Review Meeting
Deadline for the
October 20 Zoning
Board Meeting
Sweetest
Day
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Deadline for the
November 1
Planning Commission
Meeting
Council Workshop
TBD
Architectural
Board of Review
Meeting 8:30 a.m.
City Annex
Deadline for
the November 2
Architectural Board
of Review Meeting
7 p.m. Zoning
Board of Appeals
Meeting
6 to 8 p.m.
Trick or Treating
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The City of Independence, 6800 Brecksville Road, Independence, OH 44131-5045 | 216.524.4131
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