Seven Hills City Council approved a controversial ordinance increasing the mayor’s salary from approximately $40,000 to $108,834 during their meeting, with the raise taking effect for the next mayoral term beginning in 2027.
The measure, Amended Ordinance 36-2025, passed with five votes in favor and one opposed, with Council President Phillip Kiriazis presiding over the vote. Councilwoman Stacey Kelly cast the sole dissenting vote. The ordinance transforms the mayor position into a full-time role and includes benefits such as health insurance, use of a city vehicle, and vacation time.
Mayor Anthony Biasiotta emphasized the measure would benefit future mayors, not himself. During public comments, numerous residents expressed support for the increase, citing the mayor’s accomplishments including securing grants and economic development projects.
One council member opposed the measure, arguing it exceeded what voters approved in a 2023 ballot issue that gave council authority to adjust mayoral compensation. Kelly contended that creating a full-time position with benefits required voter approval.
The city’s assistant law director defended the ordinance as legally sound, noting similar measures in other Ohio municipalities typically pass as emergency legislation.
FIRE STATION IMPROVEMENTS
Council unanimously approved a $380,687 contract with Millstone Management Group for fire station renovations. The project will create four individual dormitory rooms with climate control, renovate the kitchen, and establish a new locker room area.
City Engineer Daniel Gerson explained the improvements address longstanding facility deficiencies. Councilman Thomas Snitzky, who chairs the planning and zoning committee, reported on the project’s progress. The project is fully funded by a $500,000 state grant, with remaining funds potentially used for a new generator.
BATHROOM RENOVATIONS APPROVED
A $24,000 design contract with Osborne Engineering was approved for city hall bathroom accessibility upgrades. The project will bring two existing restrooms up to ADA compliance and create a new unisex family restroom accessible from the main hallway.
Officials said the city applied for community development block grant funding to help cover the estimated $200,000 construction cost.
HEALTHCARE BENEFITS EXTENDED
Council approved extending healthcare benefits to the mayor, law director, and assistant law directors. Outside legal counsel advised the measure complies with federal requirements for employers with over 50 employees and Ohio ethics guidelines for charter municipalities.
ZONING VARIANCES GRANTED
Four property line setback variances were unanimously approved for fence installations on adjacent properties on Meadview Drive. Councilman Justin Costanzo, serving as the council liaison to the zoning board, reported the variances allow 4-foot high fences to be placed closer to property lines than normally permitted.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
The meeting drew an unusually large crowd of residents, with dozens speaking during public comment periods. Speakers praised the mayor’s leadership and supported the salary increase, citing improvements to city services and infrastructure during his tenure.
Several long-term residents noted significant positive changes in city operations compared to previous administrations.
The next council meeting is scheduled for the second Tuesday of the month at city hall.
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