Cleveland City Council meeting recap

The Cleveland City Council met yesterday.

During the meeting, it was announced that Cleveland will receive a new Safe Haven Baby Box. The box will be from the same company that supplied the box in Hamilton County where a newborn was surrendered last month. According to state law, a mother can surrender a baby legally by leaving it in a safe baby box location. The boxes are temperature controlled and have the technology to immediately alert first responders when a child is placed inside. A former Cleveland resident, Reed Taylor has decided to donate the box in memory of his father Jerome Taylor.

Lisa Lovelace, CEO of Bradley Medical Center, presented updates to the council on a new partnership with Siskin Hospital, the addition of 10 ER beds to reduce wait times, and plans for a new women’s center across from the hospital.

City Manager Joe Fivas shared renderings of upcoming upgrades to Tinsley Park, including a new pickleball pavilion, an expanded dog park, and more parking and sidewalks. The Cleveland Pickleball Association is considering the space for future tournaments.

The council also discussed progress on the Empowerment Center transitional housing project in partnership with The Caring Place. The proposed facility would serve the elderly, disabled, and families with plans for 75–100 beds and future expansion. 

Mayor Kevin Brooks issued a proclamation honoring the Bradley Bearettes for their state basketball title, declaring April 14th as a day in their honor.

The next Cleveland City Council meeting is set for Monday, April 28th.