The Seven Hills City Council held a special meeting July 8 to discuss significant changes to the mayor’s position, including a substantial salary increase and expanded benefits package.
The Ordinance: Ordinance 36-2025 proposes to amend the mayor’s compensation structure, including:
- A $68,000 salary increase
- Health benefits addition
- Monthly expense allowance
- Converting the position to full-time effective December 2027
- Use of a city-owned vehicle
- Established vacation time
Charter Concerns: Several council members raised concerns about the ordinance’s compliance with the city charter. One council member noted that the charter makes no provisions for health benefits to elected officials, stating that section 151.05 specifically excludes elected officials from healthcare benefits.
Mayor’s Multiple Roles: Mayor Biasiotta defended the compensation changes, explaining that the position currently encompasses multiple duties typically handled by separate officials in other cities. The mayor serves as safety director, acting economic director, and chief judicial officer overseeing mayor’s court, while managing 208 city employees.
Discussion Points: Councilperson Elliott expressed support for the changes, acknowledging the mayor’s expanded responsibilities and the city’s improvement under current leadership. The discussion included comparisons to other municipalities and their compensation structures for similar positions.
Law Director Eric Moore clarified that the mayor’s position has always functioned as full-time work, and recent charter changes gave council the authority to determine compensation without requiring a public vote.
The meeting moved into executive session at 6:08 p.m. to continue discussing employee compensation matters.
Additional Agenda Items: The council also addressed resolutions regarding solid waste management, legal matters involving the Ohio Supreme Court, and a community
Discover more from Northeast Ohio News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
