Together We Are Stronger

As always, I want to encourage everyone to vote in this general election. Your vote helps us ensure we are represented at our greatest potential. Please be sure to complete an absentee ballot or vote in person on November 5th. The ability to work with multiple government agencies continues to be a source of pride among my team. I think our success in these endeavors is a testament of our team not settling for the status quo or resting on any laurels. Recently, as part of the State of Ohio one-time infrastructure bill (HB 2) we were awarded $500,000 of improvements to our fire station. The primary focus of the award will be to add proper living quarters and roof repairs to our station.

Next, as part of the State Capital Budget we were awarded $72,000 for automated locks for Seven Hills' new park facilities located at John Glenn Park, Meijer Park, Summitview Park, North Park and Calvin Park. These new locks will enable us to lock or unlock our new amenities from our recreation center as opposed to sending staff each morning and evening to lock and unlock the doors.

Also, we are proud to announce that the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has awarded Seven Hills and Parma funds to cover 80% of the cost to resurface Broadview Rd. from Ridgewood Dr. all the way to Sprague Rd. This project is estimated to cost $2,175,000. ODOT’s contribution to this project is $1,740,000, Parma’s $222,500 and Seven Hills $212,500. This work is tentatively scheduled for 2026.

Two more grants will help us fund one of our water task force goals: $275,000 Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grant $250,000 Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District (NEORSD) grant. With the purchase of a home located at 7358 Hickory Lane we will be able tore-establish the natural flood plain for the creek that flows in that area, so it is not turning at right angles. In the event it does overflow, it will flow into a natural flood plain area with a small retention basin. In addition, we will remove a culvert that we have identified as being undersized. The project is estimated at $905,050, and the balance of the project will be funded by NEORSD community cost share funds.

Wrapping up i want to mention that there is so much to be proud of. From neighbors helping neighbors after the tornado, to the great clean up job our service departments in multiple cities, with help from our partners at the county and our state, to the very generous donation from Meijer and our volunteers who stepped up to help those that lost food during the power outage, to a very moving day of remembrance for those that lost their lives at Abbey Gate, Afghanistan, on August 26, 2021, to the new city events, and last but not least, city parks that are constantly being enjoyed by all who visit. I can tell you that northern Ohio is taking notice as a new era is ushered in. 

One favor to ask, this time of year, please remember we are one community and we are stronger when working together to accomplish goals.  What unites us is far greater than what divides us.