Perkins Becomes Police Chief as Council Tackles Budget, Planning Issues

Solon City Council swore in Courtenay Perkins as police chief during its September 15 meeting, completing a leadership transition for the department.

Mayor Edward H. Kraus administered the oath to Perkins, who spent 15 years with the Solon Police Department rising from patrol officer to lieutenant. The new chief is a U.S. Air Force Academy graduate with extensive military experience.

Kraus highlighted Perkins’ qualifications during the ceremony, including service as Citizens Academy training officer, eight years on the Valley Enforcement SWAT Team, and four years with the SEAL Missing Person Unit. Perkins holds master’s degrees in criminal justice and is pursuing organizational leadership education.

The new chief outlined community engagement plans including programs called “Cops and Cones” and “Hoops with Heroes” along with enhanced social media presence. He emphasized maintaining department excellence while strengthening community partnerships.

Former chiefs Chris Vyland and Rick Tinelli attended the ceremony along with surrounding area police chiefs and community members. Assistant Chief Don Haynes continues in his current role.

Officer Reginald Willis received recognition as 2024 Officer of the Year, selected by fellow officers during the recent Rotary Club first responders dinner.

Council approved multiple agenda items including a health services contract with Cuyahoga County Board of Health for 2026-2027. Members also authorized changing one jail administrator position to corrections supervisor to align with operational needs.

Budget discussions resulted in approval of $276,579 in Service Department appropriations for vehicle rentals and repairs. A separate $20,000 Planning Department request was delayed for further review.

Planning commission items included lot split and variance approvals for properties on SOM Center Road, White Oak Drive and Hidden Creek Circle. A fence variance request for Stone Creek Drive was tabled to allow more discussion between applicants and neighbors.

Council authorized infrastructure agreements with Bada Properties and Crawford Fitting Company for stormwater maintenance. Members also approved final contract adjustments for previous concrete and asphalt repair programs.

A significant partnership emerged with council approving naming rights for Swagelok Company at the Solon Community Park stage. The agreement represents major investment in recreational facilities.

Resident Mark Robbins requested pedestrian access along a city roadway connecting Deer Run to the new Solon to Chagrin Falls trail. Robbins presented a neighborhood petition supporting the access point with appropriate privacy protections.

Kraus indicated he would meet with Robbins this week to discuss potential solutions.

Council members noted progress on park improvements including visible construction on tennis courts and the main stage. Several wished community members celebrating Rosh Hashanah a happy New Year.

The meeting concluded with members expressing confidence in Perkins’ leadership serving the city’s 24,000 residents and 900 businesses.

COMMUNITY – October 9

Solon Fire Rescue will host its Annual Open House on Thursday, October 9, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Fire Station 2, 6320 SOM Center Road. Families can enjoy tours, activities and interactions with firefighters and paramedics.