Bedford City Council met August 4 to approve several ordinances including a major police radio system upgrade and water rate increases, while residents brought forward ongoing concerns about noise violations and property maintenance issues.
Police Department Gets Radio System Upgrade
Council unanimously approved a $15,000 contract with Motorola Solutions to purchase 10 new 800-radio systems for the police department. City Manager Michael S. Mallis explained the upgrade will transition the department to the county’s 800-radio system, improving communication with neighboring departments across the state.
The purchase was funded through partnerships including an $85,000 grant with Cuyahoga County. Two radios were previously purchased for new police cruisers, leaving 10 remaining units needed for the fleet and other staff members.
Water and Sewer Rate Increases Move Forward
Three ordinances regarding utility rates were placed on first reading. The water rate increase reflects a 3.63% blended rate from Cleveland Water, which supplies Bedford through a master meter agreement.
Sewer rates face a 10% increase for the second consecutive year as the city continues negotiations with the Ohio EPA regarding long-term wastewater treatment facility improvements.
City Approves Equipment Purchases
Council approved the purchase of a stainless steel spreader for a 2006 salt truck at approximately $35,000, extending the vehicle’s life by 7-8 years. Mallis noted this approach saves significant costs compared to purchasing a new salt truck, which would cost $185,000-$200,000 with multi-year delivery delays.
The city also authorized contracts for fire department water line repairs with ABC Piping Company, addressing ongoing corrosion issues with the main water feed line.
Board of Zoning Appeals Decision Accepted
Council accepted the Board of Zoning Appeals decision allowing Yousef Khanfar to erect a larger sign at 400 Northfield Road for a new Sunoco at the former GetGo location. Omar, representing the company, reported the business expects to open within 6-8 weeks following parking lot resurfacing.
Residents Voice Noise Complaints
Multiple residents from Deborah Lane addressed council about ongoing noise issues from a vehicle with a loud muffler. Daniel Baron documented two dozen incidents since June of a resident driving around the cul-de-sac to ensure neighbors hear the vehicle.
Lieutenant Kellerman has investigated the complaints, but determined the vehicle meets city noise ordinance specifications despite residents’ concerns. Baron suggested the city consider updating its noise ordinance to better address such situations.
Orlando Rosario and Maryanne Belle, also from Deborah Lane, supported Baron’s complaint, describing the noise as disruptive to daily life and frightening to pets.
Property Maintenance Concerns
Barbara McDaniel from Center Road returned for the second month regarding a large tree on a rental property corner that threatens utility lines and has filled the yard with debris for two months. City Manager Mallis confirmed notices have been issued and court action will proceed if the issue isn’t resolved by August 11.
Councilman Steve Salvi addressed challenges with out-of-state property owners, noting increased difficulty enforcing city ordinances when owners are distant LLCs with limited community investment.
Ward Reports and Community Updates
Ward 1 (Sandy Spinks): Promoted the August 9 Historical Society flea market and congratulated resident David Ford on his new golf apparel line featured on Cleveland media. Warned residents about spotted lanternfly sightings and thanked volunteers for neighborhood cleanup efforts.
Ward 2 (Steve Salvi): Thanked Lutheran Church of the Master for support during his recent illness. Detailed resident inquiries about traffic issues, high grass complaints, and ongoing dump truck problems on Woo Road dropping dirt.
Ward 3 (Victor Fluharty): Urged Kimble waste management to improve cleanup after garbage collection and reminded residents to verify solicitor permits as school season approaches.
Ward 5 (Jeff Asbury): Announced chipper services, household hazardous waste roundup August 11-15 and 18-22, and noted that the Ohio tax holiday ran through August 14. Highlighted road construction on West Glendale and Paul Meadow scheduled through mid-October.
Ward 6 (Tony Longino): Highlighted 23 Bedford Sprint Masters athletes who competed at the AAU Junior Olympics Nationals in Houston, with India Charlton and Trevion Johnson earning All-American honors.
City Operations Updates
Mallis reported the Ellenwood Center would close approximately two weeks starting August 14 for roof replacement, parking lot resurfacing, and interior upgrades. Enbridge began gas line replacement on Pinerest with door hangers notifying affected residents.
The city continues discussions with Ohio EPA regarding long-term wastewater treatment improvements, with responses expected later in August. Mallis commended police department planning for successful community events including the Strawberry Festival and Rotary Rib Burnoff with zero incidents reported.
Upcoming Items
- Household hazardous waste roundup: August 18-22, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Citywide garage sale: September 13
- Road construction: West Glendale and Paul Meadow through mid-October
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