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1 MINUTES OF A “COUNCIL COMMUNITY CONVERSATION” AUGUST 12, 2025 LAKEWOOD PARK WOMEN’ S CLUB PAVILION Present: Councilmembers Strebig, Kepple, Bullock, Steiner Also Present: Approximately 20 members of the public, Ward 3 Neighborhood Officer McCarthy, Council staff Start time: 6:05 p.m. Each councilmember introduced themselves, speaking briefly about their personal lives and their work on Council. Councilmember Strebig shared her take-aways from First Energy’ s public Forum held August 11th that many attended. She said that her overall impression was that First Energy needed to do more and that the City is stuck in a holding pattern, waiting for First Energy to make improvements. Residents spoke out about the impact of the power outages on their families and expressed frustration. President Kepple provided background information about the ongoing talks between the City and First Energy since earlier this summer. She pointed out inconsistencies and changing information provided by First Energy. She questioned where the infrastructure fees have been going that customers have been paying and said that question, and many other issues were not adequately addressed at the forum. She highlighted that the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) has opened an investigation. Residents asked for specifics about what they can do, individually and collectively. Councilmembers encouraged residents to file complaints with PUCO for any and all outages, and also to report them to First Energy. Councilmember Bullock spoke about how emerging technology may be helpful and potential legal action by the City. Residents asked for specific contact information and talking points. They brought up sustainable energy as a solution. President Kepple provided an update on the downtown development, announcing an early October start to construction. She described the site plan, amenities, and affordable housing component. She explained the rationale for tax increment financing to get the project off the ground and how the schools will be compensated with a separate agreement. Residents expressed interest in understanding specifics about the project’ s affordable housing and the eligibility requirements. Docusign Envelope ID: 38E488E5- 9706-48CF-AD5E- 15BCF7E4E576 2 A resident of Edgewater discussed the City’s proposed options for restriping her neighborhood. She took exception to the options provided and stated that there should be more emphasis on aesthetics. Residents and councilmembers discussed how City processes can be improved to prioritize inclusivity and communication. President Kepple discussed the CASE Board that was recently established. Councilmembers and the public briefly discussed the topic of building a new City Hall. Residents had differing views on the topic. The August 12, 2025 Community Conversation ended at approximately 7:015 p.m. Approved: Sarah Kepple, President of Council Maureen M. Bach, Clerk of Council 9/2/2025 Docusign Envelope ID: 38E488E5- 9706-48CF-AD5E- 15BCF7E4E576