City

Question: What should I do if I am involved in a motor vehicle accident?

Answer: From Officer Steve Hogrefe

There are several things you need to do if you are involved in a motor vehicle accident.  If the accident is serious and there are injured people in either vehicle, 9-1-1 should be called immediately.  However, calling 9-1-1 or the local police department is not required for non-serious motor vehicle accidents.  The State of Ohio only requires the persons involved to exchange information.  Here are some steps you can take if you have an accident: 

Dear Friends:

As teenagers where do we belong in this world? Do we classify ourselves as kids, adults, or that somewhere in between? Because of this confusion, rights of a teenager gets lost in the midst of all the confusion.  The re Gualt 387 (1967) case defined rights of both adults and teenagers. Two minors were arrested for making a prank call. The arrest was very amature and unprofessional. So, his parents decided to take this case to the Supreme Court. Finally, the supreme court ruled that the boys under question, did not have the right to be charged as an adult. It was a landmark case that gave teens an understanding of these rights. Rights that to this day, are not well known or used.

I hope you have enjoyed the beautiful weather we have had over the past few months.  I love the summer and have greatly appreciated being outdoors.  As you know, summer is also the season for road repairs and we have several significant projects that are still underway. Below is a brief update on some of the projects:

Often cited as the traditional start of the campaign season, Labor Day in Euclid will mark the first time in many years that current Mayor Bill Cervenik’s name will not be on the ballot. Term limited after 12 years as Mayor, Cervenik will no longer lead Euclid in 2016.  However, some familiar names are seeking the office of Mayor as Euclid residents are faced with interesting options November 3, 2013. 

Current Council President Kirsten Holzheimer Gail, age 48, has been active on the campaign trail for some time now and is running from her secure position on City Council as she is not up for reelection. If she loses the race for Mayor, Holzheimer Gail will continue to serve as Council President.  If she wins the Mayoral election, a new Council President will be appointed by the City Council. Her campaign website is www.kirstenformayor.com.

Former Euclid Mayor David Lynch, out of politics for several years after unsuccessful attempts to capture other public offices including a run to be Mayor of Cleveland, is once again seeking the office he held from 1988 to 1995. Since leaving the Euclid Mayor’s office Lynch, age 58, has had a varied career including stints in the media, as law director for the City of Westlake and as an attorney representing clients in dealing with various public entities.  Lynch's campaign website is www.lynchformayor.com.

For many years, the Lakeshore Chevrolet dealership in Euclid served the automotive needs of residents throughout Northeast Ohio.  Since the dealership closed in 2008, however, the group of decaying buildings along East 185th Street have sat empty and abandoned.  That will likely change as the City of Euclid takes steps to demolish the buildings and prepare the site for redevelopment.

With help from the Community Improvement Corporation of Euclid and the Cuyahoga County Department of Development, the City began to strategically acquire the abandoned and tax-delinquent properties through the foreclosure process in late 2013.  The multiple structures on the 1.33 acre site were later condemned by Building officials due to severe structural deterioration. 

Question: I’ve seen neighborhood dance parties promoted on social media which charge admission fees to the kids.  Are Euclid residents allowed to have a children’s dance party in their homes and charge admission? 

Summer is such a wonderful time of the year.  Who doesn’t love warm weather, colorful flowers, fresh fruit, chats with our neighbors, and opportunities to appreciate the outdoors?

In Euclid, we have several ways for you to enjoy the fun, beauty and peacefulness of summer.  This month you have an opportunity to walk through some of the most beautifully, well landscaped homes in the area.  The Euclid Pond & Garden Tour will be held on Friday, July 17th from 6pm - 11pm and Saturday and Sunday, July 18th & 19th from 1pm - 6pm.  There are sixteen locations on the self-guided tour, all unique with a variety of designs and features. Tickets are $8 and can be purchased at Euclid City Hall, Lakeshore Coffee House and Briardale Golf Course.  The Pond and Garden Tour is presented by the Euclid Shade Tree Commission. For more information go to www.cityofeuclid.com or call 216-731-7984.

Another “must do” this summer is to take a walk along the paths through Euclid Creek Reservation. With its wooded hillsides that run the length of the reservation, it is a tranquil, yet often forgotten park in Euclid. I personally love the sites and sounds of Lake Erie.  Whether boating, fishing or just taking in its splendor, the Lake can be so beautiful and mesmerizing. The Sims Park Fishing Pier and park benches offer front row seats to the nightly sunsets. 

The season comes and goes quickly. Take time to relax and enjoy the simple beauty of nature.  

Your friend,

Mayor Bill Cervenik

In my twelve years as your Mayor, I have been honored to participate and attend countless events and celebrations.  All that we honor in this community help to define us and make us a great community in which to live and work.   Nothing can be more moving than when we celebrate Memorial Day.  Research tells us that Memorial Day began after the Civil War and eventually grew to become a day to honor those who gave their lives in the military service to this county.  In our City, the celebration of the sacrifices of our soldiers and sailors starts with many volunteers who plan the Memorial Day events.  In addition to our Veterans Groups, I want to acknowledge and thank our City staff who never fail to make our cemetery and parade route sparkle.   

EUCLID POLICE MINI STATION

SUMMER DAY CAMP

Ages 7-10 years

June 15 – July 31, 2015 (6 weeks)

Program hours 12pm-6pm

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

No camp on Tuesdays

The Euclid Police Department is offering 6 weeks of fun activities at the Police Mini Station.  There will be games, giveaways, art, science, filmmaking and more. The Euclid Public Library will be here with some super hero activities the kids will love.

Cost: 100.00 per child for the summer (payment plan available).

Ask about sibling discount.

$50 non-refundable registration fee 

For more information call: Audrey Cobb, Euclid Police Mini Station, 20001 Euclid Ave., 216-481-5486, acobb@cityofeuclid.com

Dear Friends,

Spring is here and with summer not far behind, the City of Euclid will be filled with many events and programs for all to enjoy.  Back by popular demand is the Summer at Sims Concert Series. The concerts will be on the last Thursday of the month from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. with the kick-off on May 28th. The concerts are held on the shores of Lake Erie in Sims Park, 21311 Lakeshore Blvd.  Bring your lawn chair or blanket and along with good music, enjoy the tasty menu items from the participating Food Trucks.  For more details go to www.cityofeuclid.com or the Summer at Sims Facebook page.

The 9th annual East 200th Street Stroll will be held on Saturday, May 30th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Stroll is a wonderful community event that features the businesses and organizations in the East 200th Street area. The Euclid Beach Rocket Car, musical entertainment, free activities for kids, food and more will be on hand. For more information go to www.E200streetstroll.com

City pools open on June 8th with plenty of open swim times and numerous activities, including adult lap swim, early bird swimming, family swim, youth lessons, and competitive swimming with our Summer Panther Swim Team.  The Recreation Department has something for every age group and interest. For more information on these and other programs go to www.cityofeuclid.com or call the Recreation Department at 216-289-8114.

I look forward to seeing many of you at our annual Memorial Day Parade and ceremonies on Monday, May 25th.  Morning graveside ceremonies will be held at 7:45 a.m. at Euclid Cemetery and 8:15 a.m. at St. Paul Cemetery. The parade will begin at East 228 Street and Lakeshore Blvd at 10:00 a.m. and will travel down East 222nd Street to the Euclid Public Library.  Following the parade, there will be a service at the Veterans Memorial next the Euclid Library.  

Happy Spring,

Mayor Bill Cervenik

Dear Friends:

I had the pleasure of recently attending the Euclid Chamber of Commerce “Taste of Euclid” Annual Business Awards Dinner held at the Irish American Club.  The event is a special evening which recognizes the accomplishments of several businesses, organizations and community leaders. Guests dined on the cuisine of numerous area restaurants and caterers which offered a “taste” of some of their most popular menu items.  The evening was a wonderful celebration of Euclid.

Question: What is the Euclid Police Department Citizen’s Police Academy Alumni Association?

Answer from: Guy Wolford, Alumnus, Euclid Citizen’s Police Academy Class #28, fall 2014, & Member, Euclid Citizen’s Police Academy Alumni Association (ECPAAA)

To answer this question, an explanation of the Euclid Police Department Citizen’s Police Academy is needed. The CPA is an 11 week program that is devoted to giving private citizens who either live or work in the city of Euclid the chance to “go behind the scenes” and learn the inner workings of their local police department.  Each week, the class focuses on one or more different areas of law enforcement, and features a guest speaker from a particular specialty who provides an informative presentation and also fields questions.  Each officer or representative who speaks is forthright, honest, and stresses that no question is considered “off limits” if it is pertinent to the discussion at hand.   I recently completed Euclid Citizen’s Police Academy class #28 which was led by Sgt. Joel Barron, the training supervisor for the Euclid Police Department. I found that I not only gained an increased respect for the work that my local police department does on a daily basis, but also developed a want to continue my involvement to help the Euclid Police.

In February 2015, Euclid Mayor Bill Cervenik performed the oath of office to appoint John Paul “J.P.” Kilroy and Rebecca McFarland to the Euclid Landmark Commission.  Kilroy and McFarland join John Williams, D. Fay Miller, and Edward Siplock on the five member commission.  Following the appointments, the commission members unanimously chose McFarland as Chair of the Commission.

Dear Friends,

We made it through a bitter cold January and February and like many of you, I am ready to say goodbye to winter and hello to spring.  March is filled with several celebrations and observances including, St. Patrick’s Day, the first day of spring, women’s history month, national nutrition month and it is also when we recognize the efforts of the Red Cross.

Question: What happens with a juvenile who is involved in a criminal incident within the City of Euclid, and what is an unruly juvenile? 

Answer from Detective Dan Sawyer, Juvenile Unit & Kate McLaughlin, Community Policing Unit:   

Students fighting with each other at school, youths trespassing on private property, and drug possession are three examples of criminal activities requiring police investigation. Officers that respond to an incident, that involves youths engaged in criminal activity, investigate the complaint and then complete a report and fact sheets for the juveniles involved.  These juveniles are either taken home or taken into custody until the parent or guardian can pick them up at the police department.  The report and fact sheets are processed by the Juvenile Unit then sent to Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court for intake processing. The Court will determine the charge and whether court action will be taken, or if the juvenile is eligible for Euclid’s Juvenile Diversion Program.  If the case remains with Juvenile Court, the family will be contacted by the Juvenile Court, where the family can address the issue of guilt or innocence.  If the case is sent to Juvenile Diversion, the family will be contacted by the police department’s diversion administrator.  Diversion is only for juveniles that will admit to the offense.  Diversion juveniles who complete all sanctions without violating any of the conditions, and if the juvenile does not commit another crime or status offense before age 18, will have the informal diversion record destroyed.  This allows the juvenile a second chance to have a clean record for employment or higher education opportunities. 

Unruly juveniles are defined as any child who does not submit to the reasonable control of the child's parents, teachers, guardian, or custodian, by reason of being wayward or habitually disobedient; and any child who behaves in a manner as to injure or endanger the child's own health or morals or the health or morals of others.  When parents file an unruly charge against their child, which is a status offense, it will be processed in the same manner as a criminal offense and the juvenile will be required to attend court or a diversion program. 

If you would like to submit a question to Ask an Officer, contact Community Policing at the Euclid Police Department:  email kmclaughlin@cityofeuclid.com or call 216-289-8449.

Answers have been provided by Officer Jennifer Kroczak, Community Policing Unit.

Q: I would like to take a self-defense class.  Do I have to be experienced in martial arts?

A: No experience is necessary.  Most women who enroll are first-timers to self-defense class, and have no experience in martial arts.  Many have never even been in a gym.  We welcome those women.

Q: Why do you refer only to women?

A: The class offered by Euclid Police Officer, Jennifer Kroczak, is part of the RAD Systems of Self Defense, licensed by The National Academy of Defense Education, and is designed solely for women.

Q: Why is RAD for women only?

A: Assaults against women are generally very different than assaults against men.  RAD training recognizes and accommodates for this difference.

Q: I want to sign up!  How can I?

A: It’s easy! Keep an eye out for the next issue of Library Lines magazine, the free publication of The Euclid Public Library, delivered to Euclid residents, and available at many Euclid businesses.  Information for sessions offered in May and June of 2015 will be in the next Library Lines.

Q: When I sign up for RAD, I want to bring my daughter.  I’d feel safer if I knew she could defend herself against an attack.  Are girls allowed to enroll in RAD?

A: We welcome minor children who attend RAD with their mother, grandmother, or guardian.  Girls should be at least twelve years of age and mature enough to handle sensitive subject matter.

Q: You said grandmother.  My granny is 84.  Isn’t she too old for RAD?

A: If your granny is 84, she’s too young not to sign up for RAD.  The RAD student engages at a level they are physically comfortable with.  Every woman needs to know she CAN defend herself against an attack, no matter her level of physical fitness, her age, or her physical ability.

Q: I want to learn more about RAD!  Who do I contact?

A: Call Euclid Police Officer Jennifer Kroczak, (216)289-8533, or email her @ jkroczak@cityofeuclid.com

If you would like to submit a question to Ask an Officer, contact Community Policing at the Euclid Police Department:  email kmclaughlin@cityofeuclid.com or call 216-289-8449.

It doesn’t look like the cold of winter will be letting up soon. Although the snow and chilly temperatures are keeping us indoors more, there are some great activities here in Euclid you can enjoy during winter months. The C.E. Orr Ice Arena has several public sessions throughout the week to skate. Whether you are old, young or somewhere in between, ice skating is a fun way to not only get exercise, but an enjoyable activity.  The sledding hill on the corner of East 222 Street and Euclid Avenue, behind McDonald’s, is open as well. And for those of us who prefer to stay indoors, there are some terrific movies out this season. The Atlas Cinema Lakeshore 7 has all of the latest movies shown during the day and evening.  And don’t forget, the Euclid Public Library has a vast inventory of movies, both new and the old classics as well. 

Every winter I get phone calls and emails about clearing snow covered streets. The Streets Department does an outstanding job when it comes to snow removal and salting. During a snow event, the crews will plow as frequently as possible but only salt main roads, intersections, hills, curves, bridges and school zones. Remember, after 2” of new snow has fallen, a Parking Ban goes into effect until the street is cleared.

When the snow flies, you can be certain our crews are working hard to keep up with clearing roads. You can do your part by also removing the snow around fire hydrants located on tree lawns.  And please, be certain to help out the elderly: Clear their steps, take in and out garbage cans, and drop in on them to see if they need anything.

Wishing you warmth and good health.

Your Mayor,

Bill Cervenik

I would like to wish each and every one of you a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year.  In many ways, 2014 was a very good year and many positive things occurred in the City of Euclid and the surrounding communities.  I look forward to working with everyone in the New Year, a year that will be full of challenges, triumphs and achievements.

Although we are all thankful that the economy has somewhat stabilized, it certainly has not recovered as we had hoped. Income tax receipts were well below projections and the cost of health care increased almost by 19% over the prior year. We continue, as most cities, to suffer from the cuts in funding imposed by the State of Ohio over the past few years. In addition, one of the city’s largest employers, University Hospitals Administrative Offices, will be moving to a new facility outside of Euclid by May. 

Unfortunately some very difficult decisions will need to be made in 2015 in order to achieve a balanced budget.  I will work hard to maintain the services we have come to enjoy in Euclid and promise that we will remain a safe, friendly and viable community for years to come.                     

Revitalization of the East 185th Street area, continued growth in Downtown Euclid, including the arrival of “Chipotle Mexican Grill” and further development of our Lakefront are all priorities for the New Year. We will be welcoming the Help Foundation this spring as they open up their new headquarters and training facility on Euclid Avenue.  Construction on East 222nd Street will be completed as new construction begins on Tungsten Road, and East 250th Street is scheduled for a long needed repaving as well.

In closing, I would like to thank all the residents and businesses for making Euclid the great city that it is today. 

Mayor Bill Cervenik

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New activities are scheduled this fall and winter at the Euclid Police Mini Station, 20001 Euclid Avenue. Classes after school and over winter break are being offered, and tutoring for children and adults is scheduled by appointment. Take advantage of Strategies for Overcoming Testing Anxieties, Tai Chi for children and adults with special needs, Music Theory, and Beginning Acting. A new program called S.H.E. Inc. (Striving for Honorable Excellence) held its first meeting in November at the mini station. This program features classes for girls in building confidence, meeting goals, etiquette, and inner and outer beauty. For details on all classes and programs, call 216-481-5486.

Question: There have been a few burglaries in my neighborhood and I would like to know where to locate crime prevention information to help me keep my home safer?

Answer from Kate McLaughlin, Community Policing Unit: There are several things residents can do to help keep their homes and neighborhoods safer.  Contacting the Community Policing Unit at 216-289-8449 is a place to start.  Our unit offers crime prevention information, statistics on crime for your area, and a home security checklist. Community Policing will also help residents set up Neighborhood Block Watch.  Many of our resources are located on the Euclid Police Department page of the City of Euclid’s website.  Residents just need to click on Community Policing under the Police Menu.  

Residents can also find information on the Euclid Police Department Facebook page, which is being utilized to post information that impacts crime prevention, or can assist in the identification and apprehension of suspects.  Some Facebook posts include details of current arrests or fraudulent activities in the community, and upcoming events or programs. 

Residents are also encouraged to join Nextdoor.com, a social network that is restricted to your neighborhood and allows communication with each other, as well as nearby neighborhoods.  Euclid Police are able to post the weekly crime blotter and other crime prevention information, but the police department cannot monitor neighborhood posts. 

Other organizations that provide crime prevention information include The Ohio Crime Prevention Association which offers numerous resources, training, and membership to any interested person, and can be found at http://www.ocpa-oh.org/; and The National Crime Prevention Association which also offers resources and can be found at http://www.ncpc.org/topics. 

Here are some tips to get started in protecting your home.  Make sure all windows are closed and locked.  Make sure all doors are closed and locked, and invest in quality locks. Keep all small valuables such as jewelry and cash in a well-secured safe.  Trim all ground shrubs below window level, and trim all tree branches so that the lowest branches are above window level.  Install motion sensor lights on your house or garage, and put solar lights in your yard.

If you would like to submit a question to Ask an Officer, contact Community Policing at the Euclid Police Department:  email kmclaughlin@cityofeuclid.com or call 216-289-8449.

Dear Friends:

It’s that time of the year when those beautiful leaves start falling to the ground. The City of Euclid’s Public Service Department has begun curbside leaf collection. You can keep updated on the location of leaf collection crews and their anticipated daily progress by going to the homepage of our website, www.cityofeuclid.com or by calling the Service Department at 216-289-2800. Please remember to place leaves on the treelawn, not in the street.  Also, do not put anything other than leaves in the piles as it may damage the machines and delay progress.

The Euclid Joint Veterans Council will have their annual Veteran’s Day ceremony on Tuesday, November 11th at City Hall at 11am. I hope you will attend to honor those who have and continue to faithfully serve our country.

On Saturday, November 15th we will have a Community Shred Day. Euclid residents can bring items to the John Piscitello Service Garage, 25500 Lakeland Blvd between 9am and noon.

God Bless and let us all be thankful for what we have.

Mayor Bill Cervenik

Business leaders, community organizations, and city officials received an in-depth update on the affairs of the city at the annual “Breakfast with the Mayor” event on October 16, 2014. The event was sponsored by the Euclid Chamber of Commerce and took place at Euclid Hospital.           

In his presentation, Mayor Bill Cervenik covered topics ranging from improvements of city services, to partnerships to improve the quality of life for Euclid residents and businesses. 

The Mayor discussed steps being taken at City Hall to improve management and reduce expenses. For example, an employee healthcare strategy has been developed to decrease costs by promoting healthier lifestyles. 

Regionalism was also identified as a way to reduce costs and improve services. Details were provided on the lease of the Euclid jail to Cuyahoga County, and the combination of the city’s SWAT unit with other nearby departments to form the EDGE police tactical team.

The recent high ranking by the Insurance Services Office (ISO) of the Euclid Fire Department was highlighted as an indication of the professionalism and competency of the Euclid safety forces. The improvement in the City rating is important since a better classification can mean lower insurance premiums for homeowners and businesses in Euclid.

Important capital projects were discussed such as improvements to Downtown Euclid, where new sidewalks and curbs were recently installed. The second phase of the E. 222nd Street Corridor was also highlighted, as well as the roadway construction to take place on Tungsten Road next year.

Euclid has been working to attract and retain businesses, and the Mayor emphasized some examples of business activity in Euclid. For example, Remedi SeniorCare and Guardian Technologies have moved into the new building at Bluestone Business Park.

Major setbacks were not ignored. The Mayor discussed the unfortunate news that University Hospitals will consolidate its administrative offices outside of Euclid in 2015. The city is responding by helping to identify a new user for the Euclid Avenue site. The city is also conducting business visits and a survey in partnership with the Euclid Chamber of Commerce to identify ways to assist and serve existing businesses. 

The presentation concluded with highlights of the many special events held over the past year, such as the Summer at Sims Concert Series, the Euclid Wind Festival, and the Holiday Lighting Ceremony. Finally, the Mayor’s Breakfast ended with congratulations to Euclid Hospital President Dr. Mark Froimson for his service and moving Euclid Hospital forward. Dr. Froimson will be leaving Euclid Hospital for a new role in the healthcare field. 

As always, the good food and presentation at this year’s “Breakfast with the Mayor” event allowed attendees to start their day well-fed and informed. For information on future Chamber events, please visit www.euclidchabmer.com.    

Question: What is the rule for two people riding their motorcycle side by side in a single lane?

Answer from Officer Josh MacDonald, Traffic Division: Euclid Ordinance follows the Ohio Revised Code in reference to operating bicycles and motorcycles within the city.  Two people riding on motorcycles can ride side by side in a single lane.  Euclid Codified Ordinance 371.04 (b) states persons riding bicycles or motorcycles upon a roadway shall ride not more than two abreast in a single lane, except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles or motorcycles.  However, people on motorcycles or bicycles do have to follow all traffic safety rules, such as the first part of 371.04 (a) which states every person operating a bicycle upon a roadway shall ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable obeying all traffic rules applicable to vehicles and exercising due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction.  Chapter 371 of the Euclid Codified Ordinances provides Euclid’s laws regarding bicycles and motorcycles. Any resident can review Euclid’s ordinances at: www.amlegal.com/library/oh/euclid.shtml, and information about safe motorcycle riding can be found at: www.motorcycle.ohio.gov.

If you would like to submit a question to Ask an Officer, contact Community Policing at the Euclid Police Department:  email kmclaughlin@cityofeuclid.com or call 216-289-8449.

In 2007, the City of Euclid began long term upgrades to the wastewater treatment system that serves Euclid, Wickliffe, Willowick and portions of Richmond Heights, Willoughby Hills, Highland Heights and South Euclid.  An agreement, a consent decree, was approved by the United States EPA, the State of Ohio and the federal court in Cleveland and requires Euclid and its satellite communities to improve the way combined sanitary and storm flows are treated before being discharged into Euclid Creek and Lake Erie.  The goal of the projects, to be completed by 2025, is to improve water quality in the lake and requires improvements at the treatment plant as well as in the collection system.  The planned improvements incorporate the latest treatment processes and the use of methods to capture storm water in sustainable and cost efficient ways that keep customer rates at the lowest possible levels.

Recently, a national engineering firm was invited by Council members to talk about methods for removing storm water from the treatment process.   I want to share with you some of the projects that have been undertaken by public and private entities under City review and supervision to address storm water management.  Green infrastructure has been an integral part of the City of Euclid’s Storm Water Program. We have partnered with private entities such as Lincoln Electric and University Hospitals, public entities such as the Euclid Schools and many others in the city utilizing the Cuyahoga County Soil and Water group to develop green infrastructure in their construction and expansion plans.   I am sure they would not characterize their efforts in green infrastructure as insignificant.   These projects, and the many more to come, will decrease the storm flow that is being sent to the treatment plant for processing.  Combining green projects with the collection system and plant improvements and by using the latest technology, the City will meet its deadline under the consent decree in a way that keeps our sewer rates significantly below those of many neighboring systems.   The City has undertaken its’ planning with the assistance of professionals in the field of engineering, construction, systems design, legal services and accounting.  Aggressive cost control has been achieved with assistance from our partners, and the efforts have led to the successful pursuit of federal grants and low interest loans.  To date, the City has secured $13,467,400 in grants and $2,694,700 in no-interest loans.  

As Mayor, I will continue to work with my administration and partners to find solutions that will protect our great resource, Lake Erie, and the health for all using its waters for daily living and recreation.  I will look at new methods, green and otherwise, that are proven to work for the long term and in a manner that is responsible to the residents and businesses that depend on the wastewater system and pay for its cost of operation.   I cannot allow our efforts to be derailed and jeopardize millions in savings to our rate payers that would result from delaying the projects already planned.  That would be irresponsible and foolish, to say the least.  The Administration will keep our system users informed regarding the specific projects as they are planned and ready to implement.  In addition, periodic public updates will be available through meetings and on-line sources.

Mayor Bill Cervenik

The Waste Water Treatment Plant project is underway and will consist of several phases of work over the next four years. The outcome of the project, which is a part of our U.S. EPA consent decree, will reduce the amount of sanitary overflow into Lake Erie during wet weather.  You may notice large equipment coming in and out of the Lakeshore Blvd. area near the treatment plant. Next year, a lot more activity will be occurring on the property with the installation of a new headworks building and equalization tanks. Kokosing Construction is the Construction Manager for the City of Euclid during all of our Waste Water construction.Kokosing installed temporary orange and brown trailers that are currently located at the old Alexander’s Restaurant property. A Construction Concerns Hotline has been established at 216-645-8438. If you have any questions regarding the project, please feel free to call the hotline

The bright colors of the fall leaves are picturesque and heartwarming this time of the year. Unfortunately, as the weeks go by the beautiful leaves will eventually fall to the ground.  Curbside leaf pickup will begin soon and is scheduled for the same day as your garbage collection. Please rake your leaves to the tree lawn, not into the street. Wet weather conditions and equipment problems slow down the collection process and can delay the schedule. Check the homepage of our website at www.cityofeuclid.com or call the Service Department at 216-289-2800 to see if the leaf collection is on schedule.  

I wish you a happy fall season and look forward to seeing you in the neighborhood.

Your Mayor

Bill Cervenik

Euclid Public LIbrary has served the residents of Euclid since 1935. For 79 years, it has been working hard to strengthen the community for all of us to enjoy.

The library will be on the November 4 ballot with a levy issue. Issue #7 is the levy that supplies half of the library's funding and it routinely expires every five years. This cycle of renewing a levy has been true in Euclid for the past 79 years. In November the library is asking voters for a rrenewal levy of 4 mills with an increase of 1.6 mills.

The levy is critical at this time because it not only represents half of the library's income, but the other half comes from the state and that funding has dropped significantly. WIthout these resources, the library's services would be hurt.

Within the past year, all of the library's resources have been reduced:

• The State of Ohio decreased the Public Library Fund by 6% = a drop of $104,932.
• The Commercial Activity Tax was reduced by 58% = a drop of $123,047
• Existing Euclid Library levy decreased by 26% = a drop of $643,755
• The total loss of revenue in this past year = $871,734

The levy funds will be used to maintain hours and services at the library. the library already has trimmed its budget significantly. This levy, when passed, will provide approximately 50% of the operating budget for the next five years.

For the owner of an average home in Euclid valued at $75,000, the 5.6 mill levy will cost $11.16 per month. This equals $133.88 per year. This is a value considering that the American Library Association says that if you visit your library once every two weeks to borrow materials (that you might have paid to rent or buy) you will save over $7,000 annually! Your library card is truly one of the most valuable cards in your wallet.

Euclid Public Library is proud to be an independent library serving the residents of Euclid and Ohio for nearly 80 years. This is the only levy that supports the library,

Euclid Senior Programs will be celebrating its 10 year anniversary at the Lakefront Community Center, on Friday, October 24th at 10:30 a.m. "The Golden Notes" will provide musical entertainment and light refreshments will be served. If you are a senior, stop by and see what we have to offer.  There are several other events happening at the center, including line dance classes, art classes, beading classes, ZUMBA classes, YOGA, Bingo, exercise classes, sewing, Bible Study, pool tournaments, healthy for life presentations, field trips and many other fun activities.  The center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  Membership is open to anyone age 50 and above for $ 10.00 per year, and if you are 60 and over you can also enjoy a delicious nutritional lunch served at Noon (Reservations are needed the week before).  There is a suggested $ 1.00 donation per meal. If you would like information regarding the center, please call 289-2985.

Question:  What is that gray trailer used for at 20001 Euclid Avenue with the Euclid Police Mini Station sign?

Answer from Audrey Cobb, Euclid Police Department Community Outreach Specialist:What goes on at the Euclid Police Mini Station may be surprising.  For the last several years some of the activities have included: GED classes, tutoring programs for elementary students, a six week summer camp for children, photography and babysitter classes, teen job training, and video classes.  In the spring an art exhibition for the Euclid Central Middle Schools art class students was displayed on the walls of the mini station, and in the fall the Euclid Police held the National Night Out event here.  The mini station property has a playground, basketball court, and picnic tables under the trees for all Euclid residents to enjoy.

Currently, the Euclid Public Library has installed a mini-library and keeps it supplied with reading materials for children and adults, along with fun programming for all ages.  Books can be checked out for up to three weeks.  Other current activities include: the juvenile diversion program utilizing the mini station for skill building sessions, a back to school get-together, Euclid Ward meetings, and community group functions held in the conference room.  Any community group or individual is welcome to utilize the mini station to hold a meeting, present a special event, or offer programming which enriches the community or enhances personal development.  For Euclid Police Mini Station reservation information, contact Audrey Cobb at 481-5486. 

If you would like to submit a question to Ask an Officer, contact Community Policing at the Euclid Police Department:  email kmclaughlin@cityofeuclid.com or call 216-289-8449.

Just when you thought that yellow barrel season was coming to an end, the reconstruction project for East 222nd Street has begun. This exciting and necessary project will cover the area of East 222nd Street between Tungsten Road and Euclid Avenue and will include new waterlines, minor widening of the street, paving, new street lighting, curbs, sidewalks and aprons. The $3 million project is being funded by the Cleveland Water Department, Cuyahoga County, the State of Ohio as well as local funding. A similar project was completed a few years ago along a larger section of East 222nd Street.  This is a highly traveled road and the home to some of Euclid’s largest and most notable businesses. The much needed improvements will benefit the day to day operations for these businesses and create a more welcoming entrance way for all of its many users.  Tungsten Road, between East 222nd and East 200th Streets, is next in line for the same reconstruction improvements in 2015.

It’s hard to believe that summer is coming to an end. I hope you had the opportunity to attend some of the new special events the City of Euclid offered over the past few months.  I have heard from many people who were very pleased and proud of the Wind Festival that took place in June and the new monthly free summer concerts, which took place at Sims Park.  We are planning to bring back these events next year and look to improve and expand their offerings. Please give me a call or email me with any suggestions you have for the events and any other topics you would like to discuss with me. 

God Bless and let us all be thankful for what we have.

Mayor Bill Cervenik

bcervenik@cityofeuclid.com

216-289-2751

Nearly eighteen months after a fire completely destroyed a fully renovated house at 296 East 195th Street in Euclid, construction of a new home at the site is nearing completion. The City used insurance proceeds from the fire to hire Dinardo Builders of Chesterland, Ohio for the construction of the new house. The 1,350 square foot colonial-style home features three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms.  Modern amenities include a first floor laundry room, a gas fireplace, and state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances.   

The home is currently available for sale to eligible home buyers for $126,900 through the City’s Neighborhood Stabilization Program. 

Marty Castelletti, Manager of Neighborhood Development for the City calls this a “great time to buy a house” in the City of Euclid.  Home prices rose 8.5 percent in Euclid last year and interest rates remain low.  According to Castelletti, many buyers can now afford a high-quality home for less than the cost to rent.   

While the number of homes for sale has decreased from a year ago, buyers can still find houses in a variety of styles and price ranges in Euclid.  For those seeking a site to build a new home, the City has a large inventory of buildable lots for sale for as little as $1.00. 

For more information or to schedule a showing of the newly constructed home, please call Annabelle Neshkin of Century 21 Realty at (216) 215-3330.  

Question: How can Euclid Residents Connect Online with the Euclid Police Department?

Answer from Community Policing Unit: Twenty-one neighborhoods in Euclid are already using Nextdoor (www.nextdoor.com), the first private social network for neighborhoods, and now the Euclid Police Department has adopted the platform to communicate directly with residents. This new partnership will improve citywide and neighbor-to-neighbor communications and help all of us build safer communities across the city. 

On Nextdoor neighbors can get to know one another and exchange local advice and recommendations. Euclid residents will also be able to work with the Police Department to improve safety and strengthen virtual neighborhood watch efforts. 

Tens of thousands of neighbors across the country are already using Nextdoor to:

• Find trustworthy local resources, such as babysitters, plumbers, and dentists

• Communicate with neighbors and police about suspicious activity and safety concerns

• Organize neighborhood events, such as garage sales and block parties

• Get assistance in finding lost pets and missing packages

• Sell or give away items, like an old kitchen table or bike 

Nextdoor was specifically designed to make neighbors feel comfortable sharing information with one another. All members must verify that they live within the neighborhood.  Information shared on Nextdoor is password-protected and cannot be accessed by those outside the neighborhood or found on search engines. 

Nextdoor is a tool for the Euclid Police Department to effectively share information on crime prevention, safety, and police events.  Please be assured that your website remains private. Police staff will not be able to see any of the content on your neighborhood website except for the direct replies to EPD posts. 

Please be aware that Nextdoor is not the appropriate way to request emergency services.  For an emergency please call 911.  For other police services, or to report criminal or suspicious activity, please call Euclid Police at 216-731-1234.  

Please join your neighbors and the Euclid Police Department in building a stronger, safer Euclid today at www.nextdoor.com.

To submit a question to Ask An Officer contact Kate McLaughlin at 216-289-8449 or kmclaughlin@cityofeuclid.com

It is hard to believe that we are already on the backside of summer. Before the weather changes, the kids go back to school and we all start heading indoors, I hope you will make sure to check a few items off your to-do list:

Our last summer concert at Sims Park will be held on Thursday, August 28th beginning at 6pm. The featured musical guest is Luca Mundaca and the food trucks on hand for the evening will be 216 Bistro and MotorMouth. Don’t forget to bring your chair or blanket.

Has your Neighborhood/Condo/Tenant Association applied for Euclid’s $200 grant?  Funds can be used to print and distribute a newsletter, sponsor a block party, beautify the neighborhood, etc. To be eligible, associations must have held at least three activities and/or meetings in 2013. For information on grant applications and guidelines call 216-289-2751.

Our “Caught Being Good”program is in full swing. “Caught Being Good” is a city program which authorizes police officers to hand out coupons donated by local businesses to young people who are “caught” in random acts of kindness, good deeds or positive community activities. Our Police officers are on the lookout for kids wearing bike helmets, helping others, crossing at designated crosswalks, etc. The City of Euclid applauds and appreciates our younger citizens for taking pride in doing their best.

This month at the John Piscitello Service Garage, 25500 Lakeland Blvd. The month of August is Computer Round-Up. Computers and related apparatus can be dropped off at any time. Televisions cannot be accepted!

Community Shred Day is Saturday, August 16th from 9am until Noon.

And, as always, if you are in the neighborhood, please feel free to stop by and visit me at my office.  God Bless and let us all be thankful for what we have.

Mayor Bill Cervenik

Question: My ex-fiancé kicked me out of the house we rent, but all my belonging like furniture and family jewelry are still in the home.  He changed the locks and won’t answer my calls.  I ‘m worried because only his name is on the lease.  These are my things and I think he has no right to keep them from me.  Can the police help me get my belongings back?

Answer from Detective Brian Collins:  This question or type of problem is more common than you think for the Euclid Police Department, so do not be afraid to call us.  When someone has belongings in a residence where they no longer have access, or where there is no longer a cordial relationship with the resident, we advise that person to call police for assistance.  As a department we offer what we refer to as an “assist with belongings.”  This consists of an officer or two accompanying you to the location of your belongings and supervising the safe and peaceful recovery of your things. 

There are a few things to be aware of when calling police for assistance in this manner.  The officers can only be assigned to assist you if no other higher priority call is pending.  We certainly must tend to those in danger or with more pressing issues before assisting with civil property disputes, so please be patient.  You should also come prepared to transport your belongings and bring the needed transportation and people to help.  If you are there to pick up a couch and bed, please bring a truck or van to accommodate the transport of your things and people to help you move them.  We generally will allow you 10-20 minutes to gather your things while we stand by, but in most circumstances we can’t stay much longer.  This can be frustrating I know, but we have several other jobs and obligations that warrant our attention throughout our shift.  If we can accommodate a longer period of time we will but plan accordingly for a 20 minute time frame.  

It is important to realize that as a police department our goal and intentions are simply to keep the peace.  Unfortunately, we wield no power when it comes to civil disputes over property, and in many cases have to defer our citizens to seek civil legal action.  That means that we cannot force your ex, or former spouse for example, to give you the items you desire that are locked in their home.  We are simply a third party to ensure the encounter is safe and peaceful.  In a case were the home owner or lease holder refuses your request to obtain your property, you will have to file a civil suit at the Euclid Municipal Court.

Dear Friends:  

Summer is my favorite time of the year.  It is a season of enjoying warm weather, beautiful flowers, fresh fruit and chats with our neighbors. After our long harsh winter, it feels great to be outdoors!

In Euclid, we have several ways for you to enjoy the fun, beauty and peacefulness of summer.  This month you have an opportunity to walk through some of the most beautifully, well landscaped homes in the area.  The Euclid Pond & Garden Tour, presented by the Euclid Shade Tree Commission, is an event you will not want to miss. The Twilight Tour, on Saturday July 19th from 6pm-10pm, features superb gardens with lighting carefully integrated into the landscaping. The day tour is on Sunday, July, 20th from 1pm-6pm.  Prices for the event are $5.00 for the self-guided tour. Tickets can be purchased at Euclid City Hall, Briardale Greens Golf Course, Shore Cultural Centre or Lakeshore Coffee House. For more information call 216-289-8598 or go to www.cityofeuclid.com

Summertime means baseball and for those who enjoy the game, The Continental Cup will be held in Memorial Park on July 3rd - 5th.  In this tournament the participating youth athletes have a chance to play competitive baseball against some of the top teams from across the United States and around the world. Another exciting youth baseball tournament with national and international competition is The Continental Amateur Baseball Association (CABA) which will be held in Memorial Park July 17th – 25th.

Don’t forget our monthly Music & Munchies summer concert will be held on Thursday, July 31st at 6pm in Sims Park. Bring your blanket or lawn chair. The featured food trucks on hand will be Nosh Box and MotorMouth.

The season comes and goes quickly.  Take time to relax and enjoy the simple beauty of nature.

Mayor Bill Cervenik  

Dear Friends:

It is finally time to enjoy the sunshine and outdoors. The City of Euclid has many new activities and events for the entire family this summer.  Here are a just few you won’t want to miss:

• Summer Concert Series at the Sims Park Fishing Pier, 23131 Lakeshore Blvd. The concerts will be held on the last Thursday of the month from 6-9 pm and will showcase a variety of talented bands as well as trendy and tasty food trucks. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy great music, good food and a beautiful view of Lake Erie. For details on the concerts go to the City of Euclid’s website calendar, www.cityofeuclid.com. 

• The Euclid Wind Festival will be held on Saturday, June 14th from 4-9pm at Sims Park along the beach. The Festival will feature tethered hot air balloon rides, land simulated wind surfing lessons, kite making stations, BMX Bike Show, wind turbine tours at Lincoln Electric, Stampco and Wm. Sopko and Sons, arts-n-crafts, balloon artists, inflatable attractions, wind educational stations, great food, cold beverages, and music by Pieces of Eight, a favorite local band.

• City pools will be opening on June 9th and along with them the Spray Park at Indian Hills playground. This facility, which first opened last summer, is a great alternative to the traditional neighborhood pool, especially for families with young kids. The park also has picnic tables, lounge chairs and an updated baseball field. For information on the pools and all the activities that the Recreation Dept. has to offer go to their page at www.cityofeuclid.com

I hope you enjoy strolling along the new walking paths throughout Sims Park and the fishing pier.  Sitting on a park bench and watching the sunset over Lake Erie is something you don’t want to miss. I hope to see you in the neighborhood.

Your Mayor

Bill Cervenik

Dear Friends,

The City of Euclid has several new activities planned for this spring and summer. The first will be held on Thursday, May 29th, when we will kick off our Sims Park Pier Concert Series.  The activities will be on the shores of Lake Erie in Sims Park, 21311 Lakeshore Blvd., from 6-9 pm featuring the music of Chardon Polka and the culinary flair of Nosh Box and MotorMouth. Please check the City of Euclid’s website, Facebook or Twitter for more information about the concerts.

Are you or someone you know thinking of buying a home? To assist people who are considering becoming a homeowner, the City of Euclid is sponsoring a free Housing Fair. The Euclid Housing Fair will be held on Sunday, June 22nd from 1 – 5 pm at Our Lady of the Lake Church, 175 East 200th Street.  The event is being held to promote the affordable, well-maintained housing in Euclid, as well as the excellent city services and amenities that the city has to offer. Local realtors, banks and city, county and neighborhood leaders will all be on hand to answer questions. Participants are invited to take a free tour on Lolly the Trolley for a curbside view of some of the available homes throughout a variety of neighborhoods. For more information on the Euclid Housing Fair call the Euclid Planning and Development Department at 216-289-8140.

I look forward to seeing many of you at our annual Memorial Day Parade and ceremonies on Monday, May 27th.  Morning graveside ceremonies will be held at 7:45 am at Euclid Cemetery and 8:15 am at St. Paul Cemetery. The parade will begin at 10 am and will be followed by a service at the Veterans Memorial next to Euclid Library.

Happy Spring,

Mayor Bill Cervenik

Questions: Does the parking ban from 2:00 am to 6:00 am really make a difference?

Answer from Karen “KC” Cassese, Dispatcher, and Kate McLaughlin, Community Policing Unit.  Euclid has many ordinances to keep our neighborhoods safe and appealing in appearance. Prohibiting vehicles from parking between the hours of 2:00 am and 6:00 am is one of those ordinances.  There are good reasons for this parking ban.  If you abolish this ban it would permit vehicles to park 24 hours on our streets, which creates several safety and quality of life issues.

A major concern is that permitting 24 hour parking would turn our city streets into parking lots.  Once vehicle owners are allowed to use the streets for parking, we will see an increase in the number of cars parked in front of homes.  There would be an increase in abandoned vehicles, broken-down vehicles, and stolen vehicles left in the street.  From a safety perspective this creates an issue for identification. Which license plates should officers run and which cars should be towed?  Also, cars left in the street are more vulnerable to auto theft and auto break-ins than if parked in the owner’s garage or driveway.

Think of a day when someone on your street was having a party.  Vehicles are parked in front of every house.  Allowing this would not be the best appearance for our city streets.   Multiple parked vehicles creates blind spots where a driver’s view would be blocked when children run out from between the cars, and creates a barrier for suspects to hide from police.

Continued.

Have you ever wondered what jury duty was like?  This past October, I had the opportunity to serve on Euclid’s Municipal Court providing me with a unique perspective on the experience overall, our community and the processes of our justice system.

Sometime in September, I received a summons from the court system informing me that I was required to serve on Euclid’s Municipal Court.  Having never served, I was interested to learn that I would be required to be available for jury duty for four Mondays.  (In most cases, these are consecutive Mondays.  In my case, one of the days fell on the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, so I skipped one week and the time period covered five weeks.)  Every Thursday, potential jurors were instructed to call the Court to see if they were needed the following Monday.

In speaking with other people, the experience and time commitment is different depending on which court you are serving.

After three weeks of not being needed, the potential service day had me and 19 other potential jurors all coming to Euclid’s Municipal Court at 9 AM Monday morning.  Immediately upon entering and signing in, I was assigned a random number.  All of my fellow jurors then sat in a room awaiting further instructions.

Interestingly, I learned how small of a city Euclid really is as I knew several other jurors.  My children’s former principal was there, as was one of their classmate’s father.  A city council person was within the group of 20, as was the daughter of the law director.  I may have known one other person in passing. 

Continued.

Dear Friends:

          The definition of volunteering is a selfless activity intended to promote good or improve the quality of life for others. April is National Volunteer Month. If you would like to make a difference and give more, but don’t know exactly how to get started, all you have to do is ask. So many organizations and groups are in need of volunteers to give a helping hand or just a smile and a kind word. Volunteering doesn't have to be time consuming and can be according to your availability. Whether it be at a church, hospital, hunger center, in your neighborhood or at the animal shelter, every small task helps and adds up. Volunteering gives you an opportunity to change lives, including your own.

Spring is a great time for a new beginning by getting out and volunteering.  Now let’s all enjoy the beauty of spring.

Your Mayor,

Bill Cervenik