Full Document
MINUTES OF A REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 3, 2025 – 7:30p.m. Council of the City of Berea, Ohio, met in regular session in the Council Chamber on November 3, 2025 and the meeting was called to order by President of Council Jim Maxwell at 7:30p.m. Present: Mary K. Brown, Erika Coble, Leon R. Dozier, Sr., Chris McManis, Rick Skoczen, Lisa Weaver and Gene Zacharyasz. Also present: Director of Public Service Tony Armagno, Director of Law and Public Safety Barb Jones and Director of Finance Andrea Morris. The Pledge of Allegiance followed. This meeting was held in compliance with all legal requirements including Section 121.22 of the Ohio Revised Code and Chapter 109 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Berea. The certificate of compliance is on file in the Clerk’s office. Moved by Mrs. Brown, seconded by Mr. Dozier, that the minutes from the October 20, 2025 Public Hearing be approved. Vote on the motion was all ayes and no nays. The motion carried. Moved by Mrs. Skoczen, seconded by Mr. McManis, that the minutes from the October 20, 2025 Regular Council Meeting be approved. Vote on the motion was all ayes and no nays. The motion carried. Without objection, Mr. Maxwell asked that Ordinance No. 10-1 and Ordinance No. 10-2 be considered after the Other Business portion of the agenda. MAYOR'S ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT AND COMMENTS Mayor Kleem was not present. REPORT AND COMMENTS BY THE OFFICERS OF THE ADMINISTRATION: Andrea Morris – Director of Finance: Mrs. Morris had no report. Barb Jones – Director of Law & Public Safety: Mrs. Jones had no report. Tony Armagno – Director of Public Service: Mr. Armagno stated that work on the pool house and restroom project will begin soon, adding that the Edgewood project is coming along well. Mr. Skoczen referenced the brush along the turnpike in some areas of Ward 4 and Ward 5, and Mr. Armagno stated that he will keep everyone informed of road work, as well. 2 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING – November 3, 2025 Marty Compton – Director of Recreation: Mr. Compton was not present. COMMENDATIONS: None PETITIONS: None AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION: Meg Hennessey from Cuyahoga County Soil and Water Conservation District was present this evening to discuss some work being done at Coe Lake. Her full presentation is included at the conclusion of these minutes but, in summary, she informed Council about the watershed, the need and benefit of local species, and the invasive shrubs which will be removed from Coe Lake Park this weekend with the help of high school and university students, as well as local volunteers. COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS: Woodvale Union Cemetery Board of Trustees – Jim Maxwell Mr. Maxwell thanked all those who attended the Joint Council meeting, adding that the Board is working to gather the data requested by both Councils. He continued by stating that the expansion is continuing, and Angelo Giaimo is off to a great start! Mrs. Brown thanked Mr. Maxwell for such an informative meeting and for all the great work they do at Woodvale. Finance Committee – Rick Skoczen Mr. Skoczen explained that, with regard to the Joint Council meeting discussion concerning the employees at Woodvale, both Councils will be meeting with the Mayor and fellow members in order to figure out how to get the hard working staff a more competitive wage. Mr. Skoczen inquired about the Court’s budget, and Mrs. Morris stated that the only area of concern is health care. LEGISLATION – THIRD READING: ORDINANCE NO. 10-3: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF BEREA TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH THE GENERAL HEALTH DISTRICT OF CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OHIO, PROVIDING FOR HEALTH SERVICES FOR THE CITY OF BEREA FOR YEARS 2026 AND 2027. The Clerk read the title of the Ordinance. Moved by Mrs. Brown, seconded by Mr. Dozier, that Ordinance No. 10-3 be adopted. Vote on the motion was ayes: Brown, Coble, Dozier, McManis, Skoczen, Weaver and Zacharyasz. Nays: None. The motion carried. 3 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING – November 3, 2025 LEGISLATION – SECOND READING: ORDINANCE NO. 10-4: AN ORDINANCE VACATING PORTIONS OF THE PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY ON FRONT STREET AND LOU GROZE BOULEVARD, NO LONGER NEEDED FOR MUNICIPAL PURPOSES. The Clerk read the title of the Ordinance. Mr. Maxwell noted that the Planning Commission reviewed this vacation and recommended that Council adopt the Ordinance, and Mr. Armagno noted that the request for suspension is to assist in facilitating the property transfer as soon as possible. In response to a question from Mr. Skoczen, Mr. Armagno said that while there may be some smaller closures on Front Street, the intention is to have no more full closures. Mrs. Coble informed Council that she attended the Planning Commission meeting where this vacation was considered, and said the issue is very straightforward and she agrees with passing it this evening. Moved by Mr. Dozier, seconded by Mr. Skoczen, that the three reading rule be suspended for Ordinance No. 10-4. Vote on the motion was ayes: Brown, Coble, Dozier, McManis, Skoczen, Weaver and Zacharyasz. Nays: None. The motion carried. Moved by Mr. Brown, seconded by Mr. McManis, that Ordinance No. 10-4 be adopted. Vote on the motion was ayes: Brown, Coble, Dozier, McManis, Skoczen, Weaver and Zacharyasz. Nays: None. The motion carried. LEGISLATION – FIRST READING: RESOLUTION NO. 11-1: A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE APPOINTMENT OF MASON KAHL TO THE MUNICIPAL PLANNING COMMISSION, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Clerk read the title of the Resolution. Mr. McManis stated that he knows Mr. Kahl, and this will be a great addition to the Commission. Moved by Mr. Brown, seconded by Mr. Zacharyasz, that Resolution No. 11-1 be approved. Vote on the motion was ayes: Brown, Coble, Dozier, McManis, Skoczen, Weaver and Zacharyasz. Nays: None. The motion carried. ORDINANCE NO. 11-2: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT AREA (“CRA”) AGREEMENT WITH BAGLEY ROAD PROPERTY 1, LLC (BRP1) AND RED CEDAR COFFEE CO. LLC (RCC). The Clerk read the title of the Ordinance. Mrs. Jones explained that this Ordinance was referenced during discussion of the CRA legislation, adding that, following the pandemic, Red Cedar, like many companies, changed its business model and now does a lot of internet sales, whereby not necessitating the filling of 4 full 4 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING – November 3, 2025 time equivalent positions. Since covid, these types of amendments, particularly with retail companies, are common, and the County approves of the change. Mrs. Brown stated that they built a new building and are doing a nice thing, thus she supports the amendment. Proposed Ordinance No. 11-2 stands on first reading. ORDINANCE NO. 11-3: AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE A PASS-THROUGH SALE-PURCHASE AND DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CUYAHOGA COUNTY LAND REUTILIZATION AUTHORITY AND THE CITY OF BEREA FOR THE TRANSFER OF A PROPERTY LOCATED AT 280 KEMPTON DRIVE, PERMANENT PARCEL NUMBER 363-28-071, TO THE CITY OF BEREA, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Clerk read the title of the Ordinance. Mrs. Jones explained that this is similar to past legislation that involves a pass through transfer from the Land Bank. The property was up for sale two times and is a tax foreclosure. The City will purchase the property for $100, and then likely sell the property in its current state. Proposed Ordinance No. 11-3 stands on first reading. ORDINANCE NO. 11-4: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICE TO PURCHASE THROUGH THE ODOT STATE CONTRACT PROGRAM AND/OR THE STATE OF OHIO PURCHASING PROGRAM, OR DIRECTLY PURCHASING FROM A STATE APPROVED VENDOR AT A PRICE LOWER THAN THAT AVAILABLE THROUGH THE ODOT STATE CONTRACT PROGRAM AND/OR THE STATE OF OHIO PURCHASING PROGRAM, OR, ALTERNATIVELY, TO ADVERTISE FOR BIDS AND ENTER INTO ONE OR MORE CONTRACT(S) FOR THE PURCHASE OF MOTORIZED VEHICLES, EQUIPMENT, MACHINERY, MATERIALS, SUPPLIES OR OTHER ARTICLES FOR USE IN ONE OR MORE CITY DEPARTMENTS, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Clerk read the title of the Ordinance. Proposed Ordinance No. 11-4 stands on first reading. ORDINANCE NO. 11-5: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AND RATIFYING THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICE TO ADVERTISE FOR BIDS AND ENTER INTO ONE OR MORE CONTRACT(S) FOR THE PURCHASE OF VARIOUS PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FOR THE DAY-TO-DAY OPERATIONS OF THE CITY OF BEREA’S SERVICE DEPARTMENT, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Clerk read the title of the Ordinance. Proposed Ordinance No. 11-5 stands on first reading. 5 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING – November 3, 2025 ORDINANCE NO. 11-6: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY DIRECTORS TO PARTICIPATE IN VARIOUS COOPERATIVE PURCHASING PROGRAMS, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Clerk read the title of the Ordinance. Proposed Ordinance No. 11-6 stands on first reading. RESOLUTION NO. 11-7: A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE FISCAL OFFICER TO ADVANCE TAXES FROM THE PROCEEDS OF TAX LEVIES PURSUANT TO SECTION 321.34 OF THE OHIO REVISED CODE, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Clerk read the title of the Resolution. Mrs. Morris stated that approval of this Resolution will allow the City to receive tax advances in order to help with cash flow. Proposed Resolution No. 11-7 stands on first reading. REPORT AND COMMENTS BY THE PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL Mr. Maxwell had no report. REPORT AND COMMENTS BY THE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL Mrs. Brown asked that the lists of deteriorating sidewalks be to her soon, adding that she held a Ward 2 meeting earlier this evening, and there was good discussion. She wished all candidates much luck tomorrow. Mrs. Coble thanked Council for listening to the presentation by Ms. Hennessey, particularly with regard to the work that will be done this coming weekend. Mr. Dozier encouraged everyone to vote tomorrow. Mr. McManis echoed Mr. Dozier’s comments, and wished everyone luck. Mr. Skoczen reminded everyone that his annual Ward 5 meeting is being held on Sunday, November 23, 2025 at 11:00a.m. Refreshments will be served. Mrs. Weaver referenced the Work Session next Monday, November 10, 2025, and encouraged everyone to vote tomorrow. Mr. Zacharyasz encouraged everyone to go vote. CORRESPONDENCE The October 16, 2025 – October 29, 2025 Correspondence is available in the Clerk’s office. 6 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING – November 3, 2025 OTHER BUSINESS: Mrs. Esson wished all candidates a lot of luck tomorrow. Moved by Mrs. Brown, seconded by Mr. McManis, that the start time of the November 10, 2025 Work Session regarding short term rentals be moved from 7:30p.m. to 7:00p.m. Vote on the motion was ayes: Brown, Coble, Dozier, McManis, Skoczen, Weaver and Zacharyasz. Nays: None. The motion carried. ORDINANCE NO. 10-1: AN ORDINANCE APPROVING, RATIFYING AND AFFIRMING THE 2025 ANNUAL FINDINGS, MINUTES AND ACTIONS OF THE TAX INCENTIVE REVIEW COMMITTEE FOR COMMERCIAL COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT AREA REAL ESTATE TAX ABATEMENTS ENTERED INTO UNDER POST-1994 RULES IN THE CITY OF BEREA. The Clerk read the title of the Ordinance. Mr. McManis recused himself from the discussion. Moved by Mr. Skoczen, seconded by Mr. Zacharyasz, that Ordinance No. 10-1 be adopted. Vote on the motion was ayes: Coble, Dozier, Skoczen, Weaver and Zacharyasz. Nays: None. The motion carried. ORDINANCE NO. 10-2: AN ORDINANCE APPROVING, RATIFYING AND AFFIRMING THE 2024 ANNUAL REPORT, MINUTES AND ACTIONS OF THE CITY OF BEREA HOUSING REVIEW COUNCIL FOR ALL RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT AREA REAL ESTATE TAX ABATEMENTS AND COMMERCIAL COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT AREA REAL ESTATE TAX ABATEMENTS ENTERED INTO UNDER THE PRE-1994 COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT AREA REGULATIONS IN THE CITY OF BEREA. The Clerk read the title of the Ordinance. Mrs. Brown and Mr. McManis recused themselves from the discussion. Moved by Mr. Zacharyasz, seconded by Mr. Skoczen, that Ordinance No. 10-2 be adopted. Vote on the motion was ayes: Coble, Dozier, Skoczen, Weaver and Zacharyasz. Nays: None. The motion carried. There being no further business before Council, it was moved by Mr. Skoczen, and seconded by Mr. Zacharyasz, that the Regular Council Meeting be adjourned. Vote on the motion was all ayes and no nays. The motion passed and President Maxwell declared the meeting adjourned at 8:33p.m. ______________________________________ Jim Maxwell President of Council ______________________________________ Alycia Esson Clerk of Council 7 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING – November 3, 2025 CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE The regular meeting of Council of the City of Berea, Ohio, held on the 3rd day of November, 2025, was conducted in compliance with Codified Ordinances Section 109 and Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22. ___________________________________ Alycia Esson Clerk of Council