CITY OF BRUNSWICK, OHIO
MINUTES OF COUNCIL
Monday, April 10, 2023
Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance The regular meeting of Brunswick City Council was called to order by Vice
Mayor Nicholas Hanek at 7:00 p.m. at the Municipal Complex.
Roll Call of Members showed the following Council Members present: Nicholas Hanek, Brandon Lambert,
Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy Piper.
Others Present: City Manager/Safety Director Carl DeForest, Law Director Ken Fisher, Clerk of Council Laura
Timura.
Joseph Delsanter moved to excuse Mayor Ron Falconi for just cause, seconded by Kristy Piperl. Roll Call -
Ayes - 7, Nicholas Hanek, Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith,
Kristy Piper. Nays - 0. Motion Carried.
Correspondence Mrs. Timura read an email from David Shaw of 3596 Apple Hill Court. Mr. Shaw stated his
reasons for opposing the suggested I-71 interchange at Boston Road, which included: limited sight distance,
too many intersections, relocation of the sanitary pump station and natural gas line, and new water lines.
Approval of Regular Council Meeting Minutes dated March 27, 2023 Joseph Delsanter moved to approve
the Regular Council Meeting Minutes dated March 27, 2023, as written, seconded by Brandon Lambert. Roll
Call - Ayes - 7, Nicholas Hanek, Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim
Smith, Kristy Piper. Nays - 0. Motion Carried.
Mayorâs Report:
Mayor's Court Financial Report for the month ending March 2023 will be posted on the website and added
to the minutes for the record:
Motion to approve Mayor's recommendation to reappoint Stephen Hill to the Financial Audit, Review &
Advisory Committee:
Tim Smith moved to reappoint Stephen Hill to the Financial Audit, Review & Advisory Committee,
seconded by Joseph Delsanter. Roll Call - Ayes - 7, Nicholas Hanek, Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr.,
Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy Piper. Nays - 0. Motion Carried.
Motion to approve Mayor's recommendation to appoint John Egan and Maria Walling to the Board of
Building Code Appeals:
Brandon Lambert moved to appoint John Egan and Maria Walling to the Board of Building Code Appeals,
seconded by Keith Kuczma. Roll Call - Ayes - 7, Nicholas Hanek, Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith
Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy Piper. Nays - 0. Motion Carried.
Mayor's Update:
Vice Mayor Hanek disclosed that a meeting was held this past Monday on April 3 pertaining to the
potential I-71 slip ramp at Boston Road. This committee meeting can be viewed on the City's
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Brunswick City Council Monday, April 10, 2023
website. Council is united in its efforts to stop the imposition of a slip ramp in Brunswick. If this is allowed
to occur in Brunswick, it can then occur in other communities.
Mr. Hanek encouraged residents to acquire information and facts regarding Issue #7, which is on the May
ballot. The City is having open houses at the fire stations from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. every Saturday of
April. Mr. Hanek and Mr. Lambert will be hosting a Ward 3 and Ward 4 meeting at fire station #1 on 303 at
11 a.m. on Saturday, April 22. They will be accepting questions from residents at this meeting.
Lastly, he wished everyone a Happy Dyngus Day.
Clerk of Councilâs Report There was none.
Council Committee Reports:
Economic Development Committee.....................................................Mr. Lambert:
Mr. Lambert had no formal reports this evening.
Services, Utilities, Technology & Cable Committee................................Mr. Smith:
Services, Utilities, Technology & Cable Committee Minutes dated March 27, 2023:
Tim Smith moved to approve the Services, Utilities, Technology & Cable Committee formal report dated
March 27, 2023, as written, seconded by Keith Kuczma. Roll Call - Ayes - 7, Nicholas Hanek, Brandon
Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy Piper. Nays - 0. Motion
Carried.
Finance Committee................................................................................Mr. Hanek:
Mr. Hanek had no formal reports this evening.
Safety & Environment Committee.......................................................Mr. Kuczma:
Safety & Environment Committee Minutes dated March 27, 2023:
Keith Kuczma moved to approve the Safety & Environment Committee formal report dated March 27,
2023, as written, seconded by Kristy Piper. Roll Call - Ayes - 7, Nicholas Hanek, Brandon Lambert, Michael
Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy Piper. Nays - 0. Motion Carried.
Planning & Zoning Committee..............................................................Mr. Delsanter:
Mr. Delsanter had no formal reports this evening.
Parks, Recreation & Community Committee..........................................Mrs. Piper:
Mrs. Piper had no formal reports this evening.
Building & Building Code Committee...................................................Mr. Abella:
Mr. Abella had no formal reports this evening.
Other Committees, Boards and Commissions
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Brunswick City Council Monday, April 10, 2023
Committee-of-the-Whole Minutes dated March 27, 2023:
Joseph Delsanter moved to approve the Committee-of-the-Whole formal report dated March 27, 2023, as
written, seconded by Tim Smith. Roll Call - Ayes - 7, Nicholas Hanek, Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr.,
Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy Piper. Nays - 0. Motion Carried.
Petitions from the Public on Legislation Bob McCafferty of 65 Oakleigh Drive came before Council. Mr.
McCafferty inquired about the cost of Phase II, and Phase III of the trail projects.
Reading of Legislation and Action on Legislation:
3rd Reading(s)
RES. NO. 17-2023 - A resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a service agreement with Flock
Safety for the provision of ten (10) safety cameras in the City in an amount not to exceed $25,000.00. - 3rd
Reading (Committee of the Whole, Administration/Brian Ohlin):
Joseph Delsanter moved to adopt Resolution Number 17-2023, seconded by Brandon Lambert. Roll Call -
Ayes - 7, Nicholas Hanek, Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith,
Kristy Piper. Nays - 0. Motion Carried.
2nd Reading(s)
1st Reading(s)
RES. NO. 25-2023 - An emergency resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary
documents to accept the 2023 Energized Community Grant from NOPEC in the amount of $91,390.00. - 1st
Reading (To be brought from the Services, Utilities, Technology & Cable Committee, Administration/Grant
Aungst):
Tim Smith moved to suspend the rules, seconded by Keith Kuczma. Roll Call - Ayes - 7, Nicholas Hanek,
Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy Piper. Nays - 0.
Motion Carried.
Tim Smith moved to adopt Resolution Number 25-2023, seconded by Joseph Delsanter. Roll Call - Ayes - 7,
Nicholas Hanek, Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy
Piper. Nays - 0. Motion Carried.
RES. NO. 26-2023 - An emergency resolution authorizing participation in the Ohio Department of
Transportation winter contract for road salt for the 2023-2024 winter season. - 1st Reading (To be brought
from the Services, Utilities, Technology & Cable Committee, Administration/Paul Barnett):
Tim Smith moved to suspend the rules, seconded by Michael Abella Jr. Roll Call - Ayes - 7, Nicholas Hanek,
Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy Piper. Nays - 0.
Motion Carried.
Tim Smith moved to adopt Resolution Number 26-2023, seconded by Michael Abella Jr. Roll Call - Ayes - 7,
Nicholas Hanek, Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy
Piper. Nays - 0. Motion Carried.
RES. NO. 27-2023 - An emergency resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with
Fallsway Emergency Equipment to provide emergency repairs to the Division of Fire's Aerial Ladder Truck
No. 2 in an amount not to exceed $49,178.50 - 1st Reading (To be brought from Safety & Environment
Committee, Administration/Greg Glauner):
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Brunswick City Council Monday, April 10, 2023
Keith Kuczma moved to suspend the rules, seconded by Brandon Lambert. Roll Call - Ayes - 7, Nicholas
Hanek, Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy Piper. Nays -
0. Motion Carried.
Keith Kuczma moved to adopt Resolution Number 27-2023, seconded by Brandon Lambert. Roll Call - Ayes -
7, Nicholas Hanek, Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy
Piper. Nays - 0. Motion Carried.
RES. NO. 28-2023 - An emergency resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with
Mark Haynes Construction, Inc. for the construction of the Plum Creek Greenway Phase 2 project in an
amount not to exceed $1,162,070.00. - 1st Reading (To be brought from Committee of the Whole,
Administration/Jenny Zoldak):
Joseph Delsanter moved to suspend the rules, seconded by Tim Smith. Roll Call - Ayes - 7, Nicholas Hanek,
Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy Piper. Nays - 0.
Motion Carried.
Joseph Delsanter moved to adopt Resolution Number 28-2023, seconded by Keith Kuczma.
Mr. Delsanter explained that this project is part of the ongoing goal to make Brunswick a pedestrian-friendly
community connecting the north to the south. He noted that Brunswick is forward-thinking in creating
walkways that all residents and visitors will cherish. The project is being done in phases due to the funds
that need to be acquired. The finished project will be enjoyed by children, grandchildren, and grown-ups
alike. This is an example of proper city planning.
Mr. Hanek added that this is an extension of the Plum Creek trail that started at Plum Creek Park. This will
extend the trail south up to Laurel Road and next year the intent will be to connect to Brunswick Lake. In the
City's comprehensive plan, the entire City is to be connected by trails and bike paths. This includes
connecting this trail up through North Park, up to the north of the City, and across Boston Road as a bike
path. This could be destroyed by others who do not share the same vision. Mr. Hanek expressed his desire
to create a community where residents can grow old and raise their children. As well as a community that is
a livable, walkable environment that allows residents to get around without the use of a car. Mr. Hanek
stated that Council is mad about the intent of another city to disrupt those plans. He went on to explain that
the trail would connect to Cuyahoga's Metropark system.
Roll Call - Ayes - 7, Nicholas Hanek, Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter,
Tim Smith, Kristy Piper. Nays - 0. Motion Carried.
City Manager's Report Mr. DeForest mentioned that Issue Number 7 will be on the May 2 ballot. Residents
are encouraged to be informed and log on to the City's website at www.brunswick.oh.us Issue #7 will
generate 12 million dollars over a 20-year period to build a centralized fire station at 1094 Hadcock. This
property is already owned by the City. The levy would cost the homeowner $29 per year, per $100,000
value of their house over a 20-year period. Mr. DeForest encouraged residents to be informed before going
to the ballot on May 2.
Secondly, fire station #1 and fire station #2 will be holding open houses on Saturdays in April from 10 a.m.
to 12 p.m. The Chief or Assistant Chief will be at the stations to answer questions pertaining to why there is
a need for a centralized fire station. These open houses are being held to inform residents and help them to
make the best decision for their tax dollars and the Brunswick community.
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Brunswick City Council Monday, April 10, 2023
Open Forum Stacey Maleckar from the Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities came before
Council. She introduced herself as the Superintendent for the Medina County Board of Developmental
Disabilities. She announced that April is autism acceptance month and that one in thirty-six children is
diagnosed with some form of autism. It is important to recognize that while we have differences we have a
lot of things in common. She left copies of her annual report for Council. Ms. Maleckar divulged that the
board recently had its three-year state accreditation with a perfect survey (no citations). The preschool
received a 5-star step up to quality, which is the highest rating. Transition steps and activities for the early
intervention programs were achieved with 100% compliance. Additionally, three new board members were
welcomed. She disclosed that a state performance audit was completed, which confirmed that the board is
conservative and transparent with their spending.
Shrea Kellums of 3450 Boston Road came before Council. She suggested that the City hold Town Hall
meetings to disclose the potential I-71 Interchange at Boston Road. She indicated that it would be
beneficial to have the community's senator or state representative present. She would like the opportunity
to get together and have questions answered as soon as possible.
Bob McCafferty of 65 Oakleigh Drive addressed Council. He recalled money being approved for a central
fire station roughly 10 years ago. He asked where the funds went. He asked where the McDonald's sign on
Boston Road be located. Additionally, he asked if one or more gas stations would be located in Brunswick
Hills or the City. He estimated that Boston Road would be torn up for at least two years and admitted that
he was not sure what a slip ramp is. He remarked that he feels a four-lane highway would be required to
accommodate the slip ramp. He asked what ODOT's plans were and that he be called when they are
available.
Susan Revelt of 3443 Sturbridge Lane approached Council. She stated that her main concern pertaining to
the slip ramp is that crime would increase. She declared that slip ramps provide a quick getaway for
burglars and porch pirates. She does not feel this matter is being considered and would like to know what
will be done pertaining to this issue. Ms. Revelt suggested that Brunswick conduct a study to determine the
cost to the City of Brunswick and the residents of Strongsville that reside within a mile or two of the ramp.
Police Chief Dan Chafin from the City of Wadsworth came before Council. Chief Chafin thanked his City of
Brunswick law enforcement partners. He noted that the City of Wadsworth had a large-scale event that
attracted protestors and counter-protestors. His city quickly identified that this event was too large to
handle on its own. He reached out to fellow Medina County law enforcement and Chief Ohlin quickly
responded that they would be available to offer assistance. This allowed Wadsworth to maintain security
and keep the event safe. He declared that it meant the world to the Wadsworth Division of Police to be able
to reach out to their county law enforcement partners and that they were there for them. He mentioned
that Chief Ohlin and other Brunswick officers did a phenomenal job. The officers handled themselves with
dignity, honor, and respect.
Unfinished Business Mr. Lambert voiced that Council is unified in its opposition to the proposed I-71 and
Boston Road slip ramp. He remarked that this was imposed upon the City by Strongsville before the
Transportation Bill went to a vote before the State House. Strongsville leaders are currently boasting about
the designs they have made for our exits and which houses they are going to eliminate. They do not care
how this will affect Brunswick and Strongsville residents. He disclosed that the information is available on
Strongsville's websites and social media.
Mr. Delsanter informed that Strongsville was overbuilt and developed and they had no plan on how to fix
the issue. Strongsville's State Representative has stated that 100% of the costs will be covered through
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Brunswick City Council Monday, April 10, 2023
state funding. Mr. Delsanter commented that costs will be incurred to Brunswick post-construction and
there will be damage to the quality of life for everyone along the corridor. Accessibility to highway
interchanges will increase crime ratios. Strongsville is ignoring the solution to their problem which exists
within their own borders. The City is working hard to make sure that their voices are heard. Additionally,
Representative Patton claims that no commercial traffic will be allowed at this interchange. However, this
statement was not included in the legislation that was in the Transportation Bill.
New Business Mrs. Piper reminded members of the community that there will be a Park Clean-Up Event at
Pepperwood Park this Saturday. She added that she had taken a tour of the fire stations this past Saturday
and it was a great tour. Mrs. Piper encouraged everyone to attend the tours offered on Saturday mornings.
Adjournment Joseph Delsanter moved to adjourn, seconded by Tim Smith. Roll Call - Ayes - 7, Nicholas
Hanek, Brandon Lambert, Michael Abella Jr., Keith Kuczma, Joseph Delsanter, Tim Smith, Kristy Piper. Nays -
0. Motion Carried.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7:39 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Laura Timura
Clerk of Council
Mayor Ron Falconi
Adopted
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