Macedonia City Council approves storm sewer project, reviews new permit rule

Macedonia City Council met Sept. 10 to advance infrastructure projects, approve a new chipper for the service department, and honor the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, while also reviewing a proposed rule requiring homeowners to acknowledge responsibility for self-permitted work. The session included approval of the Ledge Road storm sewer project, updates on housing developments and city services, and a moment of silence for 9/11 victims, reflecting the council’s focus on both community safety and administrative efficiency. Macedonia City Council convened on Sept. 10 for a meeting that addressed infrastructure improvements, introduced a new permitting rule for homeowners, and included a solemn remembrance of the Sept. 11 attacks. The session also featured updates on city services, housing developments, and the acquisition of a new piece of equipment for the service department. Ledge Road Storm Sewer Project Moves Forward Council approved Ordinance 59-2026, authorizing the mayor to sign a contract with Northeast Ohio Trenching Services for the Ledge Road storm sewer project. The work will enclose an oversized, exposed ditch on the north side of Ledge Road near Freeway Drive, addressing safety concerns and improving drainage. City Engineer Joe Gigliotti emphasized that the project will not alter existing water flow but will cover the ditch, reducing erosion and minimizing past vehicle-related issues. The ordinance passed unanimously on its first, second, and third readings. New Chipper to Enhance Service Department Operations Ordinance 60-2026 was also approved, allowing the purchase of a 19XP drum-style chipper from Earthworks Equipment through the Source Well Cooperative Purchasing Program. Director of Public Service Dan Wilson noted the replacement of two aging chippers—dating back to 1991 and 2000—will improve the department’s ability to manage storm debris and respond to resident requests. The new equipment is expected to arrive by year’s end, ready for spring use. Proposed Homeowner Permit Rule Under Review Council introduced Ordinance 61-2026, which would require homeowners pulling their own permits to sign an affidavit acknowledging personal responsibility for inspections and compliance. Building Commissioner Nino Monaco explained the proposal aims to ensure residents understand the risks of self-permitting, particularly for high-risk trades like electrical and plumbing work. While the city encourages hiring licensed contractors, the ordinance does not prohibit homeowners from pulling permits. Council members raised questions about language and potential exceptions, requesting further review before a second reading. Mayor’s 9/11 Remembrance and Other Updates Mayor Nicholas Molnar opened his report with a moment of silence to honor the victims of the Sept. 11 attacks, marking the 25th anniversary of the tragedy. Other updates included the reopening of the Recreation Center after a planned shutdown, the installation of a new restroom facility at Sugarbush Park, and confirmation that applications for two Ohio Public Works Commission grants—covering North Bedford Road paving and Empire Parkway reconstruction—were submitted to the state. Building Commissioner Monaco also provided updates on housing developments, including the recent issuance of an occupancy permit for Divinity Landing, a 54-unit project with move-ins expected to begin Sept. 18. Meanwhile, the Parks and Recreation Commission will meet again Sept. 23, and the Finance Committee held an earlier session. The city continues processing tax refunds for residents who filed extensions with RITA, the Regional Income Tax Agency. Additional reports highlighted the fire department’s upcoming open house on Oct. 7, which will include a swearing-in ceremony for new personnel and equipment displays, and the police department’s ongoing recruitment for entry-level positions. The meeting adjourned with no new business pending beyond discussions on the homeowner permit rule.