POLICE & FIRE
Lieutenant Honored for Life-Saving CPR Officer credited with saving colleague’s life during cardiac arrest
Twinsburg Lieutenant Brian Donado received a proclamation from Mayor Sam Scapiti for his life-saving efforts during a February cardiac emergency. Sergeant Patrick Quinn collapsed at work from sudden cardiac arrest on February 6, going without pulse or breathing for one to two minutes before Donado discovered him.
Donado immediately began CPR and directed officers to use an AED before fire department arrival. Quinn was transported to Cleveland Clinic after 41 minutes without stable heartbeat and 14 defibrillator shocks. He was later stabilized at Hillcrest Hospital.
“Without Lieutenant Donado’s discovery of me and his immediate response with life-saving measures, I would not be here today,” Quinn said during the ceremony. “Lieutenant Donado used his extensive training and instincts to save someone he was just having a conversation with moments before.”
The proclamation noted Donado acted with professionalism and valor during the emergency.
Fire Crews Honored for Baby Rescue Eight-month-old saved from basement blaze
Twinsburg firefighters Josh Jarzab and Kevin Ro received certificates of recognition for rescuing an eight-month-old from a basement fire on August 17. Fire Chief Steve Baso praised the crew’s quick response during what he called “a nightmare call.”
The rescue took 12 minutes from initial call to baby extraction. Jarzab and his partner Leon entered the smoke-filled basement without a hose line, using only a water extinguisher to suppress flames before locating the infant in a smoke-free room.
“Josh did his search with Leon, checking doors and staying low because the smoke was all the way down,” Baso said. “Found the baby in a room that was clear of smoke thankfully.”
The chief credited the parents for closing bedroom doors before evacuating, which likely saved the child’s life. Police officers who arrived first provided crucial information about basement access that expedited the rescue.
Dispatcher Lisa Davis described the call as one of the longest 12 minutes of her career while coordinating with the family.
GOVERNMENT
Council Approves Multiple Emergency Ordinances Several measures passed with suspended reading rules
Twinsburg City Council approved eight emergency ordinances during their September 9 meeting, suspending three-reading rules to meet deadlines and expedite implementation.
Key measures included joining the Valley Enforcement Regional Council of Governments for joint law enforcement operations and accepting tax levy certifications for Summit County by the October 1 deadline.
Council also authorized purchase of Carahsoft/Govwell software to replace outdated systems serving multiple departments. The upgrade addresses capacity issues with current software.
Additional approvals included United Survey Inc. bid acceptance for the Highland Sanitary Project and Summit County intergovernmental agreements for job creation and tax revenue sharing.
All emergency measures passed unanimously 7-0.
Resolution Postponed for Further Discussion Streetscape design contract delayed
Council postponed Resolution 74-2025 authorizing a contract with Environmental Design Group for streetscape design guidelines. Council President David Post said the city and design group need additional conversation and understanding before proceeding.
The resolution stood on second reading but was passed over to allow more time for negotiations.
Several other ordinances advanced to second readings, including amendments to planning and zoning codes and data center definitions. An ordinance defining data centers will require five readings before final approval.
Holiday Event Planned for November Winter celebration scheduled before Thanksgiving
Mayor Sam Scapiti announced the city’s winter holiday event will take place November 22, the Saturday before Thanksgiving. The celebration replaces the former Luminosity event with a new format.
Plans include a walking parade from the school to city hall, food trucks, and building decorations. The earlier timing aims to kick off the holiday season before Thanksgiving rather than after.
“I thought that I really wanted to have that before Thanksgiving. I think that kicks off the holiday season,” Scapiti said during council communications.
The event will feature similar elements to past Luminosity celebrations but with a new name and earlier date.
COMMUNITY
Senior Snow Plow Registration Open City reminds residents to sign up for winter service
Council member Chuck Bonacci reminded residents that senior snow plow registration is now active. The service helps eligible residents maintain access during winter weather by clearing driveways and walkways.
Bonacci encouraged residents to register if they think they might be eligible, noting the service can be crucial for emergency access. He shared that the program helped fire department reach his father more quickly during a medical emergency.
The registration deadline was not specified, but officials noted residents often miss the cutoff. The service is provided through the city’s recreation and service department.
September 11 Remembrance Council observes moment of silence
Council members shared memories of September 11, 2001 and observed a moment of silence for victims and families affected by the terrorist attacks. The meeting occurred days before the 24th anniversary of the attacks.
Council member Greg Bellan reflected on living inside the DC beltway during the attacks, saying “I never want another 911 but I miss the America of 912” referring to the unity that followed.
Bill Furey mentioned the unusual silence of airports with no planes flying the day after the attacks, while others shared personal memories of where they were that day.
The moment of silence was called by Council President Post at Mayor Scapiti’s suggestion.
Rotary Clam Bake Reminder October 4 event supports community programs
Council President Post reminded residents about the “World’s Greatest Clam Bake” scheduled for October 4. The Rotary-sponsored event features abundant food at reasonable prices with all proceeds supporting Rotary community programs.
Post encouraged attendance for residents who have never experienced the annual event, calling it a great deal with lots of food available.
The Rotary uses proceeds from the clam bake to fund various community service projects throughout the year.
Capital Improvement Requests Reviewed Multiple departments seek equipment upgrades
Council member Chuck Bonacci reported on capital improvement board meetings where departments presented funding requests. IT department requested cloud-based switches to replace decade-old equipment for improved security.
Parks and recreation sought enhanced surveillance cameras for safety and security improvements. The city also requested emergency preparedness infrastructure including a generator for an emergency shelter.
Police department asked for updated tasers and AEDs, while the wastewater department requested a larger vehicle to replace their current minivan for more efficient pre-treatment operations.
Fire department requested scuba equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus improvements. The golf course sought new carts with longer-lasting batteries for easier maintenance.
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