Seven Hills - Pandemic and Progress

E. Sprague Resurfaced

Happy Summer! I hope this summer season you have been able to take a break from the challenges 2020 has presented us and focus on all of the wonderful things that come with the season. When I took the oath of office about seven months ago our plans for 2020 were quite different. On one hand the time has passed in a blink of an eye yet at times it seems it was an eternity ago. I am sure my experience this year is not unique.

As we continue into the summer months some of the emergency measures that were instituted back in March have been slowly lifting. Our Recreation Staff has done a tremendous job working diligently to ensure the safety of our members. We have also welcomed back our summer campers and other programs. If you haven’t checked our recreation center offerings recently please do. Beginning July 2nd, we welcomed back our Annual Farmer’s Market. The farmers market is held every Thursday 4pm -7pm at the corner of Hillside and Broadview.

This spring, with a heavy heart, we announced the passing of former Councilman Robert J. Leech, 74 “Councilman Bob”.  “Councilman Bob” passed from COVID-19 and his family has asked me to remind everyone to continue to take precautions that will help prevent the spread of this terrible virus.

Our long-standing Home Days tradition was cancelled for this summer. This was a difficult decision. However, under the current guidelines and increasing vendor cancellations it was becoming evident that we could not present a quality event. The administration quickly went to work on a creative alternative with our Seven Hills “Stay-At­-Home” Days. This event will hopefully honor the tradition and will consist of a car parade and virtual activities.

Seven Hills, like all cities, has continued to be impacted financially by the economic disruption brought on by COVID-19. However, we have been quick to adjust and froze most spending in March. As of our June YTD financials our general fund expenses are $1,3000,000 LESS than last year. Moreover, our Safety Forces have remained and WILL remain at FULL operational strength. 

Meijer remains on schedule. If you have driven by lately you will have noticed that the walls to the store have gone vertical! 

I’m proud to announce Erie Bank has made a pre-application to our planning commission with the intent of moving their district headquarters to Seven Hills. Further, their office and branch are slated for new construction along Rockside Rd.!

Earlier this year we formed a Water Management Task Force. On July 21, 2020 the task force presented their findings to Council. The mission of the Task Force was to develop short and long-term plans to remediate water related issues, identify and prioritize specific projects that will lead to the rehabilitation of the sewer systems and other control measures to minimize flooding.

In addition, the task force worked with experts from agencies such as the NEORSD, West Creek Conservancy, Cuyahoga County Public Works and others, to plan public education platforms, identify potential partnerships, research funding options and economic assistance programs that will be essential in carrying out this mission.

Our service department took possession of a brand new 10-ton truck. This truck arrived just in time to help with the clean-up of debris left behind from a microburst that recently hit Seven Hills. This truck’s primary purpose will be snow removal. However, it came with a second equipment package that included a chipper.

Last but not least I’m pleased to report the long-awaited resurfacing of E. Sprague Rd is complete (note: small punch lists items continue). This project was made possible through a partnership with Cuyahoga County and Broadview Hts., with the County paying 80% of the cost and Seven Hills and Broadview Hts. contributing 10% each.

In summary, in spite of the pandemic the residents of Seven Hills continue to see progress on many fronts.

Tony Biasiotta

Mayor, City of Seven Hills. Ohio

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Volume 12, Issue 8, Posted 7:34 PM, 08.04.2020