Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter Shares Success Stories In Virtual State Of The City

For a second year in a row, Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter gave his State of the City address as a recorded speech, which was posted on the City of Parma’s website Monday, Feb. 28 at www.cityofparma-oh.gov.
 “When we made the decision to record the address, COVID cases her high,” DeGeeter explained. Next year, the mayor plans to return to a live presentation and has already arranged to speak at WorkHub 99. The former General Motors training facility, the new complex offers co-working space for small businesses and independent contractors to network and connect with the local business community. “Over the past two years,” DeGeeter said, “WorkHub has brought rapidly growing businesses to Parma and created new jobs.”

DeGeeter said his administration’s approach has always been to combine common sense, hard work and collaboration to produce positive results. “Our slogan is ‘Progress Through Partnerships.’ In fact, it was a collaborative effort with Parma City School District that made this video possible. I appreciate PCSD’s communications staff for shooting and editing the video.” In his presentation, DeGeeter highlighted how the city partners with local businesses, organizations and area leaders to boost economic development; update aging infrastructure; ensure residents’ safety; and improve recreation, senior and city services.

He talked about GM’s commitment to invest $46 million in its Parma Metal Center, Spitzer Motor City’s $4 million expansion at its Brookpark Road location and Prince & Izant’s $2.4 million investment. He also noted the completion of University Hospitals Parma Medical Center’s $27.5 million surgery department renovation and expansion. In addition to manufacturing, corporate and healthcare growth, the city saw retail and restaurant growth with the opening of several new stores and restaurants, including its first brewery – Schnitz Ale Brewery.

Of course, infrastructure improvements play a big part of encouraging economic development and preserving housing stock, which is why DeGeeter, council members, city engineers and service workers focus much attention on roads and storm-water management. Last year, $19 million was invested in roads, as well as the city’s water and sewer infrastructure. York Road resurfacing was completed and Pearl Road paving began. In 2022, Ridge Road should be completed, and, in partnership with the county, the city will start work on West Ridgewood Drive. 

DeGeeter said the city continues working closely with Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District to increase capacity of large basins to alleviate flooding issues. With the support of the county’s Public Works Department, the city spent $4.5 million on the upkeep of its sewer system. Furthermore, the city made improvements to its recreation and parks. The new Warrior Fitness Course is a big draw at James Day Park, and, with financial assistance from PITT OHIO, Miller Park was renovated. West Creek Conservancy has nearly completed the demolition of the 80-acre Parmadale campus and purchased the 19-acre former Padua Franciscan Park, which will add public greenspace. These improvements, along with a strong housing market, exceptional safety forces and vibrant senior center, are among the reasons why Parma is a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family, DeGeeter said.

Carolyn Kovach

Carolyn J. Kovach

Director of Communications, City of Parma, Mayor's Office

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Volume 14, Issue 3, Posted 12:53 PM, 03.01.2022