Macedonia City Council: Parking Lot Upgrades, Astronaut Tributes, and Police Honors

MACEDONIA, Ohio – The City of Macedonia City Council met for a work session and regular meeting on May 14, 2026, to address infrastructure improvements and community recognition. The primary focus of the session was the approval of a contract for the City of Macedonia City Hall parking lot resurfacing, alongside discussions regarding local traffic safety and the honoring of local heroes. City of Macedonia Parking Lot Resurfacing Project Council unanimously passed Ordinance 32-2026, which authorizes a contract with Ohio Paving and Construction Company, Inc. to resurface the City Hall parking lot. The project, which has been part of the city’s five-year capital improvement plan, is expected to begin later this summer and last several weeks. During construction, the lot will be divided into two halves to allow for continued public access, though officials warned that parking will be restricted. Traffic Safety and Resident Concerns During the public comment portion of the meeting, residents raised concerns regarding heavy truck traffic on South Bedford Road and ongoing flooding issues near the Gardens of Highland. Truck Traffic: Resident Joe Scarupa suggested installing “No Truck” signs on traffic light crossbeams at the intersection of State Route 82 and South Bedford Road to increase visibility for drivers before they make a turn. Drainage Issues: Robert Whismer of East Highland Road presented photos alleging that a creek basin restoration project near his property remains obstructed, leading to significant flooding. Law Director Mark Guidetti noted that while the city has acted as a mediator, the issue remains a private matter between the resident and the Homeowners Association (HOA). Honoring Local Heroes and National Police Week Mayor Nick Molnar issued a proclamation recognizing May 11–16, 2026, as National Police Week. The proclamation specifically honored the memory of Macedonia Patrolman Gary Paster, who was killed in the line of duty. Additionally: Astronaut Recognition: Resident Joe Skarupa proposed that the city find a way to honor Dr. Ronald “Ron” Sega, a Nordonia High School graduate and former NASA astronaut. Fire Service Excellence: Assistant Fire Chief Paul Celinski was recognized for receiving the Community Engaged Teaching Recognition Award from the University of Akron for his leadership in the Spring 2026 Fire Academy. Additional City Updates Meeting Cancellation: Council voted to cancel the upcoming May 28 regular meeting due to a lack of pressing legislative items. Upcoming Events: The Parks and Recreation Department announced the Spirit of Macedonia Festival will take place June 19–20 at Longwood Park. Safety Programs: Police Chief Vince Yakopovich announced a new “Cane’s Safety Achievement Award” in partnership with Raising Cane’s to reward children caught practicing safe habits like wearing bicycle helmets.