October 2024

CITY OF FAIRVIEW PARK

MAIN STREET CONNECTION

Greetings,

Fall is upon us! Pumpkin Spice Lattes are once again coursing through our veins and giant skeletons stand vigilant in front yards throughout the City. I hope everyone will enjoy the cooler temperatures and the change in foliage. 

Details regarding leaf collection are below. It is important that you do not rake your leaves into the street! Please rake your leaves onto the tree lawn. Not only are wet leaves dangerous to motorists, but also individuals on bicycles. We also have an issue with leaves entering our sewer catch basins, so the fewer we put in the street, the better. 

A brief sewer update - As I have mentioned at recent City Council meetings, as the City televises more streets and reviews reported flooding, we are finding a concerning number of issues with our sewer infrastructure. Collapsed sewer lines, sinkholes, and misaligned connections are prevalent. We will continue to work with the Cuyahoga County Department of Public Works on additional televising of our sewers.

The 2024 road construction continues. On West 220 Street, our contractor is on schedule. At least two sinkholes on the street have been discovered during construction which will be fixed before the final coat is applied. The project should be finished late October. 

The Gemini Center reconstruction project is proceeding as planned. We have finalized our choice for Construction Manager at Risk ("CMR") and will be sending legislation to City Council for approval. Pre-planning, prep work, and community outreach by the CMR firm will start late October. 

Have a great month!

Sincerely,

Mayor Bill Schneider

GENERAL ELECTION VOTING INFORMATION

The Presidential General Election is Tuesday, November 5.

The voter registration deadline is Monday, October 7. Click here to register to vote or to update your address.

For information on how to request a Vote-by Mail Ballot, click here. You can verify your Vote-by-Mail request was processed by the Board of Elections by clicking here. Vote-by-Mail Ballots will begin to be mailed on October 8.

Early voting at the Board of Elections begins Tuesday, October 8. The Board of Elections is the only location where you can vote in-person prior to Election Day.

In-person voting at the polls will be from 6:30 A.M. to 7:30 P.M. on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5. Click here to find your polling site.

TRICK-OR-TREATING

Trick-or-treating will take place on Halloween, Thursday, October 31 from 6:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M.

If you plan to distribute a treat, please turn on your outdoor light for the safety of the trick-or-treaters. Thank you!

GEMINI CENTER UPDATE

Information regarding the Gemini Center Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Project is available on the City's website. This information will be updated monthly to keep residents informed on the progress of this project.

HERITAGE HOME PROGRAM AND THE HOUSING ENHANCEMENT LOAN PROGRAM

The Heritage Home Program (HHP), a program of the Cleveland Restoration Society, is operating in Fairview Park. The HHP offers guidance and low-cost financing, with interest as low as 2%, to homeowners for home improvements and maintenance projects. While there are some restrictions on qualifying projects, homeowners can use the loans for many projects, such as basement waterproofing. Please see the program website for details. 

There are additional programs already available for low cost financing through the County, such as the Housing Enhancement Loan Program (HELP). Eligible properties must have a property tax value under $250,000 to qualify. Please visit their website for details.

LEAF COLLECTION

Leaf collection in scheduled to begin on Monday, October 21, weather permitting. Leaves must be raked onto tree lawns, not into the street.

There are two crews, one on the north side and one on the south side of Lorain. Crews move from the western end of the City toward the eastern end, "vacuuming" leaves as they go. Once they reach the eastern end of the City, they begin the round again.

During the first few weeks, crews move pretty quickly. Once leaves start to fall in earnest, the pace slows due to the amount of leaves. When this occurs, the City will update the "leaf tracker" on this website to inform residents where the trucks will begin the next day.

Leaf collection officially runs into December, weather permitting. Leaf collection trucks are also used for snow plowing so if we run into bad weather, collection can be delayed.

Yard waste collection (by Republic Waste Services) runs throughout the year. If you have leaves after the City's leaf collection has ended, place your leaves in yard waste bags or containers marked "yard waste" and put them out for collection on regular collection days. You may also bag your leaves in plastic bags and put the bags in your blue trash container.

Please DO NOT rake leaves into the street:

• Reason Number 1 - Safety: Leaf piles in the street obstruct traffic flow, cause accidents, can combust under hot engines, and entice young children to play in them, oblivious to road traffic.
• Reason Number 2 - Obstruction: Leaf piles block the normal drainage flow of water on the street and many times completely block the storm sewer. With evening temperatures getting colder, there is a danger of standing water freezing.
• Reason Number 3 - Time: It takes our crew much longer to pick up wet leaves in the street than it does off the tree lawn. Turf absorbs water as oppose to the street which does not.
• Reason Number 4 - Parking: Park vehicles need to hug the curb so as to not obstruct traffic.
• Reason Number 5 - Law: It is illegal and a safety hazard to place leaves in the street (see Ordinance 74-36, Section 543.04 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Fairview Park). Whenever a City employee, be it a police officer, foreman, or service worker is called to deal with leaves in the street it takes them away from other important duties.

Your neighbors, their children, motorists, and the Service Department will certainly appreciate your efforts. If you have questions, call the Fairview Park Service Department at 440-356-4410.

SEWER INFORMATION

WOODSTOCK AVENUE SEWER PROJECT

The Woodstock Avenue Sewer Project is expected to start this year. The City has received $3.5 million from the Federal Environmental Protection Agency. Total cost of the project is $4,891,000. The project includes the removal of existing 24” and 30” storm sewer and replacement with new 30” HDPE (High Density Polyethylene Pipe); removal of existing 10” and 12” VCP (vitrified clay pipe) sanitary sewer and replacement with new 15” PVC sanitary. The roadway on Woodstock Avenue will be significantly impacted. Bidding for the project will be in this month and awarded in November.

STANFORD AVENUE WATER, SEWER AND PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

The City was awarded funding from the District One Public Works Integrating Committee of Cuyahoga County and the Ohio Public Works Commission (“OPWC”) for the Stanford Water, Sewer and Pavement Improvement Project.

The Project, on Stanford Avenue between West 204 Street and West 210 Street, will focus on the following:

• replacement of the sanitary sewers and connections
• replacement of the storm sewer and connections
• replacement of the water main and connections
• full depth pavement replacement including curb, curb drains, driveway aprons and side walk, only as needed

The Project has an engineer’s estimated cost of $5,521,080.00. Design work by the City’s consulting engineer is underway.

REGIONAL EQUALIZATION FACILITY

The Regional Equalization Facility project has received a federal grant for $1,152,000 to design a stormwater retention tank. The City will continue to update residents about this project.

NEW SEWER FLOW MONITORS

The sewer flow monitors were installed at important intersections in the city to identify areas of strong inflow and infiltration in areas serviced by the Rocky River Waste Water Treatment Plant. The monitoring is complete and the data is being analyzed.

HOME VISITS

A very popular program, Home Flooding Visits, will continue. Residents that are interested in having the City Engineer visit their home to review best practices to help mitigate flooding should call 440-356-4411 to schedule your appointment. There are a limited amount of dates and times available in October.

SEWER CLEANING

The Service Department uses the Sewer Jet to clean catch basins, storm sewers and sanitary sewers in the City of Fairview Park, weather permitting. Please click here for a report on what streets the Sewer Jet has been working to clean the sewers.

CITY PROJECTS

Click here for information about the City projects listed below.

• West 227 Street Bridge Replacement
• Bain Park Erosion Project
• West 220 Bridge over I-480
• Lorain Road Bridge over Metroparks
• West 223 Street Project

• 2024 Paving Program
• Cuyahoga County Healthy Urban Tree Canopy Grant
• ODNR Emerging Tree Grant
• Electric Vehicle Charging Station at City Hall
• 50/50 Program-West 210 St.

WASTE COLLECTION

SCHEDULE AND SERVICE GUIDE

Yard waste and bulk items (maximum of 6 items per week) are collected every week. Yard waste can be placed in plastic bags or loose in a trash container marked "Yard Waste". Bags and cans must not exceed 35 pounds. Small branches must be cut and bundled not to exceed 4 feet in length and no heavier than 35 pounds.

Click here to view the 2024 schedule for rubbish, recycling, bulk item, yard waste, leaf, and special recycling collections.

Click here for the Trash, Yard Waste, Recycling and Bulk Waste Service Guide provided by Republic Services.

The City is proud to support all of the local businesses in our community. Click here to see a list of local businesses. 

EAT LOCAL

Please click here for a list of restaurants in Fairview Park.

POLICE DEPARTMENT

HALLOWEEN SAFETY

Halloween is a few weeks away. Please take some time to review these safety ideas.

For Trick-or-Treaters

• All costumes, wigs and accessories should be fire-resistant. Use nontoxic Halloween makeup over masks, which can obscure vision.
• Always test makeup in a small area first to see if any irritation develops and remove all makeup before children go to bed to prevent skin and eye irritation
• Carry glow sticks or flashlights, use reflective tape or stickers on costumes and bags, and wear light colors to help kids see and be seen by drivers.
• Cross the street at corners or crosswalks.
• Children and adults are reminded to put electronic devices down, keep heads up and walk, don't run, across the street. Children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Lack of visibility because of low lighting at night also plays a factor in these incidents.
• A responsible adult should accompany young children on the neighborhood rounds.
• Plan a route in advance, if older children are going alone, plan and review a route acceptable to you.
• Establish a curfew, agree on a specific time child should return home. Trick-or-treating ends at 8:00 P.M. in the City.
• Teach children never to enter a stranger's home or car.
• Instruct children to travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and stick with their friends.
• Tell your children not to eat any treats until they return home, and take care to avoid any food allergies.

For Motorists

• Slow down and be alert! Kids are excited on Halloween and may dart into the street.
• Turn on headlights early in the day to spot kids from further away.
• Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully at twilight and later in the evening.
• Watch for children in dark clothing.

FIRE DEPARTMENT

Thank you to everyone that attended our open house celebrating our 100 year anniversary. It was wonderful having you there!  

A big thank you also goes out to our sponsors Giant Eagle and the Cleveland Clinic!

Here’s to the next 100 years!

Top photo: past firefighters on their new pumper 1924

Bottom photo: today's firefighters on the 1924 pumper

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

A reminder that Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW™) is October 6-12, 2024.

This year’s FPW campaign, “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!™” strives to educate everyone about the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home.

PROGRAMS AT THE GEMINI CENTER

The Parks and Recreation Department offers programs for people of all ages. Visit the Recreation Department's page on the city website for information about the all the programs and additional events at the Gemini Center.

SENIORS AT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT'S 100TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

The City celebrated the Fire Department's 100th Year Anniversary on Saturday, September 21. Some of our local senior residents were there to celebrate with Fire Chief Tony Raffin.

SENIOR SCOPE AND CALENDAR

VAN TRANSPORTATION

Click here for information regarding van transportation.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION COALITION

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coalition will be meeting Wednesday, October 2 at 6:30 P.M. at City Hall in the Dunson Room. All are welcome!

CELEBRATE NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

Dr. Carolyn Benion, DEI Chair

National Hispanic-Latino Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 - October 15. This month-long celebration is a colorful tribute to the rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. This month-long observance begins on September 15, a date that marks the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

Throughout this period, communities across the United States engage in a variety of festivities, educational programs, and cultural events that highlight the diverse backgrounds of Hispanic and Latino individuals. From art exhibits and film screenings to musical performances and culinary showcases, the festivities serve as a reminder of the enduring influence of Hispanic and Latino cultures in shaping the social, political, and economic landscape of local cities, states, and the nation.

As we celebrate National Hispanic Latino Heritage Month, it is essential to recognize the remarkable contributions of Hispanic and Latino individuals throughout history. From trailblazers like Cesar Chavez and Delores Huerta in labor rights to contemporary leaders in science, arts, sports, and politics, their achievements have paved the way for future generations.

This month not only honors the past but also encourages dialogue about the challenges and triumphs of the Hispanic and Latino communities today. By fostering awareness and appreciation, we can build a more inclusive society that values diversity and promotes understanding among all cultures. As we come together to celebrate, let us reflect on the shared heritage that enriches our nation and inspires us to continue advocating for equality and justice for all.

Click here to check out local events to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION COALITION VACANCY

Fairview Park City Council is accepting applications for an appointment to the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Coalition (DEI Coalition). Regular meetings of the DEI Coalition are currently held the first Wednesday of each month at 6:30 P.M. Interested persons should submit a letter of interest and a completed application by October 17 at 4:30 P.M. to Clerk of Council, Liz Westbrooks at: clerkofcouncil@fairviewpark.org, or mailed to: Fairview Park City Council, ATTN: Liz Westbrooks, Clerk of Council, 20777 Lorain Road, Fairview Park, OH 44126

DEI Application: The fillable application form can be found at www.fairviewpark.org/dei.

APPLY TO BE A MEMBER OF STAC

If you love trees as much as the Shade Tree Advisory Committee does, there is currently one open position on the committee. If you have any questions about the STAC, please reach out to Doug MacMillan, Chair, at macdad6544@yahoo.com. If interested, please send a letter of intent to the Clerk of Council, Liz Westbrooks, at clerkofcouncil@fairviewpark.org.

PROTECT YOUR TREES FROM DEER RUBBING

Doug MacMillan, STAC member

Every fall about this time, adult male deer rub their antlers on young tree trunks because rubbing removes an itchy, velvet coating from their antlers that develop over the summer. They mark their territory on the tree trunk at the same time. This is a very popular activity in Fairview Park!

While this activity may feel wonderful to the deer, it can certainly damage trees. Evidence of deer rubbing looks like shredded sections of bark located a few feet above the ground. If the wound is bad enough, the tree can die.

The photograph above shows typical tree damage from rubbing. (Note: the plastic protection was not installed at the 4–5-foot level as it should be.)

There are simple ways to protect your young trees. Trees smaller than a 5-inch diameter are most susceptible. Build a 4-5-foot-tall fence of chicken wire or something similar around the tree. You can also install a plastic deer tube around the tree trunk. I use black corrugated drainpipe from the hardware store. You may also see white plastic sheaths used. Early fall to early spring is prime time to install the protection. It is best to remove the protection before Memorial Day so your trees can grow normally through the summer.

SHADE TREE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETINGS

The Shade Tree Advisory Committee holds public meetings on the second Thursday of every month. Please join us in the Dunson Room at City Hall for our next meeting October 10, 2024 at 6:00 P.M.

1949 Fairview Village Fun Facts

Tracing Fairview Park History, Chris H. Gerrett

• The population in the Village was estimated at 8,000.
• There were 2 parks: Fairview Park on Eaton Road between South Park Drive and West Park Drive and the Metropolitan Park and Golf Course on Mastick Road near Lorain Road. (Yes, Valley Parkway was known as Mastick Road; the fire department referred to it as North Mastick).
• Two theatres, one at the shopping center and the other a drive-in theatre (where Westgate is today), big enough to park 1000 cars. 
• The Chapel at West 224th and Lorain was sold and removed.
• Three public schools, with 1,200 pupils and 42 teachers.
• One parochial school with 480 pupils and 12 teachers. 
• Residents requested a ‘dead end street’ sign be placed at West 229 Street and Clifford Drive. 
• The fire department had six paid men and three pieces of motor equipment. 
• The police department had six men and two pieces of motor equipment. 
• There was a grand celebration for the opening of the new Sohio Station at the corner of West 217 Street and Lorain Road, a modern, porcelain enamel-type service station.
• Family fun included an outdoor Steer Roast and Festival. The meat was cooked on a sizzling spit and turned into steer roast sandwiches with BBQ gravy and seasoned to perfection.
• You could have your TV tubes checked at Bill’s Television Repair Shop on West 224 Street.
• And there was Mrs. Lee, convinced that her 9’ 4” sunflower was the tallest in the Village and challenged all Villagers to beat that.

GARDEN CLUB

The Garden Club meets most second Tuesdays of the month in the Dunson Room at City Hall at 6:30 P.M. to socialize and the meeting begins at 7:00 P.M. The next meeting is October 8 and Master Gardner Lee Paulson will be speaking about spring bulb planting. All are welcome. Garden Club updates and information can be found on the Garden Club's Facebook page.

GREEN TEAM