In the minutes: Avon Lake Minutes, Flock Safety (Oct 26)

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
OF THE AVON LAKE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 26, 2026
The regular meeting of the Avon Lake City Council was called to order on October 26,
2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber with Council President Smith presiding.
Council President Smith led Council, staff, and the public in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Present: Councilmembers Jennifer Fenderbosch, Kayla Goodwin, Robert Haas, David
Kos, Matthew Reynolds, Geoff Smith, and Andrew Sweigart; Mayor Mark Spaetzel; Law
Director Gary Ebert; Public Works Director Jon Liskovec; and Clerk of Council Valerie
Rosmarin.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the September 28, 2026, Council Meeting and October 5, 2026, Special
Council Meeting were approved as prepared and published; and the minutes of the
October 13, 2026, Council Meeting were approved as amended and published.
CORRESPONDENCE
The following correspondence or communication was received:
1. Mr. Reynolds reported that a resident contacted him regarding increased traffic
and the potential need for additional traffic signals at SR 83 and Lake Road, Pin
Oak Parkway and Moore Road, and Walker Road between SR 83 and Lear Road.
2. Mrs. Goodwin reported that a resident contacted her to question why Bay
Village Police officers were providing traffic control during the Walker Road
Paving Project and who was responsible for paying their wages.
Mayor Spaetzel explained that when the City cannot fill traffic detail
assignments with its own officers, it seeks assistance from neighboring
communities. He further clarified that the contractor pays the officers’ wages
as part of the project contract.
3. Mrs. Fenderbosch reported that a resident in Britannia Estates subdivision
voiced a concern about the deer and the damage that they have caused. The
resident was encouraged to complete the deer survey currently being conducted
by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
4. Mr. Haas reported that he corresponded with a resident regarding a stop sign in
the Current Village subdivision, which was resolved through support from the
Engineering and Public Works Departments. Because the sign is located on

October 26, 2026, Council Meeting

private property, the Current Village Homeowners Association will be responsible
for its installation.
PUBLIC INPUT
1. Len Lieber, Avon Lake, expressed support for retaining experienced leadership,
emphasizing the value of older generations' knowledge and practical experience
while encouraging collaboration with younger generations and openness to new
ideas. He also raised concerns about younger generations' reliance on technology
and social media, their declining interpersonal and workplace skills, and the
broader societal implications of these trends. He encouraged Mr. Haas to continue
serving and not underestimate the value of his experience and contributions.
2. Melissa Clifford, Avon Lake, urged Council to vote against Resolution 26-91, which
would authorize Avon Lake to become a Power a Clean Future Ohio Community.
She questioned the organization’s purpose, accountability, and suitability for the
City and expressed concerns that its commitment pledge could lead to costly
requirements, increased staff time, and infrastructure investments. Ms. Clifford
also raised concerns about outside influence over local policymaking, the
organization’s emphasis on equity, and the lack of measurable local benefits. She
recommended that Avon Lake continue pursuing sustainability initiatives on a
project-by-project basis, prioritizing local control, fiscal responsibility, and
accountability to residents.
3. Wayne Serra, Avon Lake, raised concerns about the Flock Safety automated
license plate reader system and questioned the City's handling of public records
requests and the accuracy of its explanation that records could not be searched
by license plate number. He disputed the City's interpretation of the Ohio public
records law, and he cited monthly search records showing approximately 136,030
searches of Avon Lake cameras in August 2026, with only 90 searches conducted
by the Avon Lake Police Department and approximately 99.4% conducted by
outside law enforcement agencies. Mr. Serra expressed concerns about data
access, privacy protections, outside agency use, contractual compliance, and the
City's understanding and oversight of the system. He questioned whether the
system's search functionality was operating as intended and concluded by
emphasizing the importance of protecting residents' constitutional liberties and
privacy.
4. Gerald Phillips, Avon Lake, urged voters to support Issue 36, arguing that a vote
against the measure would limit residents’ ability to influence the redevelopment
of the former Avon Lake Power Plant property. He raised concerns about a
proposed tax increment financing (TIF) arrangement, potential impacts on school
district revenues, high-density zoning, increased traffic, and infrastructure costs.
He further disputed claims that a no vote would end redevelopment, arguing that
the developer’s $20 million property investment made future development likely
regardless of the election outcome. Mr. Phillips also questioned the developer’s
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October 26, 2026, Council Meeting

tax payments and impact on the school district, citing estimated lost revenues of
$1.5–$2 million between 2023 and 2026 due to the owner’s devaluation of the
property. He supported greater transparency, public input, and voters' right to
determine the property's future.
5. William Zimmerman, Avon Lake, referenced the City of Avon’s 1998 and 1999
ordinances regarding the construction of Avon Commons, arguing that residents
should similarly have the opportunity to vote on Issue 36. He accused City
leadership of discouraging public participation, failing to hold officials
accountable, and obstructing citizens’ efforts to place issues on the ballot.
Mr. Zimmerman specifically questioned the circumstances surrounding former
Council President Jennifer Fenderbosch’s decision not to seek another term,
alleging that Mr. Kos and former Councilmember Rob Shahmir had discussed the
availability of votes for her reappointment. He also criticized Mr. Kos over past
legal charges and questioned the formation of a political action committee
(PAC) and transparency.
6. Scott Reschly, Avon Lake Environmental Redevelopment Group (ALERG) and
President of Operations at Charah Solutions, addressed Council regarding Issue
36, disputing ongoing misinformation about ALERG and its efforts over the past
several years to reinvest in the former Avon Lake Power Plant property and
support positive redevelopment. He stated that ALERG would remain committed
to its efforts despite continued criticism and encouraged residents to consider
the sources and tone of public commentary. Mr. Reschly also directed residents
to the Avon Lake Citizens for Responsible Redevelopment website and urged
electors to vote no on Issue 36.
Mrs. Fenderbosch responded to Mr. Zimmerman’s comments about selecting a Council
President, clarifying that she nominated Geoff Smith to encourage younger leadership
and prepare for the City's future. She emphasized that the decision was not due to a
lack of votes or political considerations, but rather a deliberate effort to do what was
best for Avon Lake.
Mr. Kos addressed comments regarding his past legal history. He acknowledged
receiving an OVI charge approximately 24 years ago and expressed regret over the
incident. He also provided context regarding a prior charge of contributing to the
delinquency of a minor, which stemmed from an incident when he was 18 years old
and accompanied by a 17-year-old friend. Mr. Kos stated that he contested the charge
at trial and was found not guilty.
MOTION
Mr. Kos moved to be excused 1 from the Council Meeting.
1

Mr. Kos had to leave the meeting unexpectedly due to a medical condition.

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October 26, 2026, Council Meeting

Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
Motion passed.
Mr. Kos left the Council Meeting.
Mrs. Fenderbosch clarified that Council Meetings are a limited public forum subject to
the City's adopted decorum rules, distinguishing them from traditional public forums,
such as sidewalks, where broader First Amendment protections apply. She also noted
that Robert’s Rules of Order are not required but may serve as a procedural reference
under the City Charter when applicable.
Law Director Ebert explained that Council can respond to questions and concerns
raised by residents during public comment, noting that residents often appreciate
receiving answers during the meeting rather than waiting for a later response.
MAYOR’S REPORT
Mayor Spaetzel reported on the following:
1. Fabrice Dongo will be appointed Finance Director later tonight.
2. Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Information regarding Issue 16 and
Issue 36 is available on the City’s website.
3. Trick-or-Treat is Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
4. Electric Boulevard, over Heider Creek, is expected to open by the end of the
business day on Friday, October 30, 2026.
Mr. Kos returned to the Council Meeting.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT’S REPORT
Council President Smith reported on the following:
•

Council pictures will be taken on Monday, November 23, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in
the Council Chamber.

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Public Works Director Liskovec reported on the following:
1. Walker Road Paving Project, Phase 6
Phillips Paving will be replacing the surface course asphalt on October 27,
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October 26, 2026, Council Meeting

2026. The public should expect heavy delays and congestion at the intersection
of Walker Road and Lear Road.
2. Pavement Marking Project
The Aero-Mark Company will begin pavement marking this week.
3. Leaf Collection
Leaf collection crews began working on the east side of the City today. Crews
will continue westward before starting another round on the east side. Residents
are encouraged to visit the City’s website for daily updates on crew locations.
4. Deer Management
The City has contracted with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to conduct
deer culling activities, as it has done in previous years. A schedule of the
culling activities will be provided. This is an ongoing effort to help balance and
manage the City's deer population.
BUILDING AND UTILITIES COMMITTEE REPORT
Mr. Sweigart reported that he anticipates scheduling a Committee meeting in the near
future.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT
Mr. Haas reported on the Economic Development Committee as follows:
1. The Committee met on October 19, 2026, to discuss the goals of the
Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) and how its broad statutory powers
could be utilized to support the City’s economic development efforts.
2. Members reviewed the CIC position description and clarified that the listed
skills and experience are suggested qualifications, not requirements for
applicants.
3. There are currently two vacancies on the CIC.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE REPORT
Mrs. Goodwin requested that John Zampino of Verdantas return in November for a
follow-up presentation. Council President Smith suggested scheduling the
presentation during one of the November Collective Committee Meetings or before a
regular Council Meeting. Clerk Rosmarin will coordinate the scheduling.
FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT
Council President Smith reported that the Finance Committee will schedule a meeting
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October 26, 2026, Council Meeting

once the new Finance Director has had an opportunity to acclimate to the position.
HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE REPORT
Mr. Reynolds reported on the Human Resources Committee as follows:
1. The Committee met on October 19, 2026. The agenda included discussion of
the Administration’s hiring freeze on non-essential positions, with the
exception of police and fire positions. These positions will remain vacant
pending completion of the budget and levy considerations. Directors have also
been instructed to limit overtime expenditures.
2. Suspension of the rule requiring three readings will be requested for Ordinance
No. 26-98 confirming the appointment of a Finance Director.
3. The Administration is proposing amendments to the Civil Service Rules
regarding employment terminology, citizenship, eligibility examinations, and
tie-breaking procedures. The amendments would also increase the number of
certified candidates from 5 to 10 and raise the maximum hiring age for fire
personnel from 41 to 45.
Council President Smith requested a red-line version of the revisions.
4. The Employee Code of Conduct is being drafted by Directors.
5. The City is transitioning to a fully self-insured health insurance plan for 2027.
Until the reserve fund is fully funded, the change is expected to generate an
estimated savings of $700,000, with no projected increase in employee health
care costs.
PUBLIC SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE REPORT
Mr. Kos reported on the Public Safety and Health Committee as follows:
1. The Committee met on October 21, 2026. The agenda included discussion of
proposed changes to the Fire Department’s fee schedule and to the Community
Disaster Plan, replacement of a Fire Prevention Vehicle, and Chapter 476
regulations concerning electric dirt bikes and off-highway motorcycles.
2. The Committee further discussed concerns regarding illegal motorized vehicles,
particularly their use by minors and the associated safety risks. Potential code
changes may include streamlining definitions, increasing parental penalties,
and expanding police authority to confiscate and hold these vehicles. Further
discussion is expected in November.

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October 26, 2026, Council Meeting

Mrs. Fenderbosch asked whether the Committee had discussed requiring helmets for
scooter riders. Mr. Kos responded that the topic had not been discussed and that he
believed a proposed House Bill addresses scooters, which he stated would require
further review.
PUBLIC SERVICE COMMITTEE REPORT
Mrs. Fenderbosch reported on the Public Service Committee as follows:


The next Committee meeting is Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in
the Council Chamber.

PLANNING COMMISSION REPORT
Mr. Reynolds reported on Planning Commission as follows:


The next Commission meeting is Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in
the Council Chamber.

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS REPORT
Mayor Spaetzel reported on the Zoning Board of Appeals as follows:


The next Board meeting is Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the
Council Chamber.

PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION REPORT
Mrs. Goodwin reported on the Parks and Recreation Commission as follows:


The next Commission meeting is Wednesday, November 18, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.
in the First Floor Conference Room.

ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY BOARD REPORT
Mrs. Goodwin reported on the Environmental Advisory Board as follows:
1. The next Board meeting is Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the
Avon Lake Public Library.
2. The Board is looking to fill vacancies next year. Residents interested in serving
on the Board may send a letter of interest and resume to Clerk Rosmarin at
[email protected].

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October 26, 2026, Council Meeting

TREE COMMISSION REPORT
Mrs. Fenderbosch reported on the Tree Commission as follows:
1. The next Commission meeting is Wednesday, November 18, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
at the Old Firehouse and Community Center.
2. The Commission is also looking to fill vacancies next year.
LAKEFRONT FUTURING AND INVESTMENT AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORT
Mrs. Goodwin reported on the Lakefront Futuring and Investment Ad Hoc Committee
as follows:
1. The next Committee meeting is Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in
the Council Chamber.
2. A Work Session was held on October 13, 2026. Scott Reschly of Charah/ALERG
and School Superintendent Joelle Magyar participated in another visioning
activity. Additional activities will continue as long as they support the mission
moving forward.
Mr. Kos asked whether residents had been appointed to the Committee yet.
Mrs. Goodwin responded that she would coordinate interviews with Mayor
Spaetzel.
MOTIONS
Mr. Haas moved to add a motion to permit his abstention from voting on Resolution
No. 26-91.
Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
Motion passed.
Mrs. Fenderbosch moved to accept an evergreen tree donation for Veterans Memorial
Park from Busch Funeral Home.


An evergreen tree will be planted as a holiday memorial tree, where families
and friends may place ornaments in memory of loved ones.

Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
Motion passed.
Mrs. Fenderbosch moved to authorize the Mayor, or his designee, to sign a Memorandum
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October 26, 2026, Council Meeting

of Understanding (MOU) with Black River Audubon Society for the Purple Martin Nesting
System Project at Miller Road Park.


A resident donated Purple Martin nesting boxes earlier this year. A member of
the City’s Tree Commission, who is affiliated with the Black River Audubon
Society, helped coordinate the Society’s involvement in the project. Given that
the selected location is within a migratory flight path, the Society expressed
interest in partnering with the City. The City will install the nesting boxes,
while the Society will provide ongoing care and maintenance. This will be the
first of several Purple Martin nesting sites planned for installation.

Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
Motion passed.
Council President Smith moved to accept the resignation of Robert Haas from the
Community Improvement Corporation (CIC), effective October 13, 2026.


Due to his appointment to Council, Mr. Haas is no longer eligible to serve on the
CIC.

Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
Motion passed.
Council President Smith moved to accept the resignation of Robert Haas from the
Community Reinvestment Area (CRA) Housing Council, effective October 13, 2026.


Due to his appointment to Council, Mr. Haas is no longer eligible to serve on the
CRA Housing Council.

Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
Motion passed.
Mr. Haas moved to accept the resignation of David Glowe from the Community
Improvement Corporation (CIC), effective October 22, 2026.


Mr. Glowe provided effective leadership during the CIC’s re-launch, and his
efforts were acknowledged and appreciated.

Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
Motion passed.

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October 26, 2026, Council Meeting

Mr. Kos moved to authorize the Mayor, or his designee, to apply for the Bureau of
Workers’ Compensation $15,000 Matching Grant to purchase a turnout gear dryer and
updated personal protective equipment (PPE) for the Fire Department.


A $15,000 grant application will be submitted on behalf of the Fire Department
to purchase equipment, with the City providing a $3,000 matching contribution.

Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
Motion passed.
Council President Smith moved to allow Mr. Haas to abstain from voting on Ordinance
No. 26-91.


Since he was appointed to Council two weeks ago, he has not had an opportunity
to review this legislation and is therefore not prepared to vote.

Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
Motion passed.
LEGISLATION
Third Readings:
Resolution No. 26-91, A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF AVON LAKE TO
BECOME A POWER A CLEAN FUTURE OHIO COMMUNITY, was read by title only.
Mrs. Goodwin moved for passage of Resolution No. 26-91. This legislation will authorize
the City to join the Power a Clean Future Ohio (PCFO) program and access technical
assistance.
Mrs. Goodwin explained that joining PCFO would not diminish the City’s authority or
autonomy in making decisions for the community. Rather, membership would provide
an additional resource for the City to consider when evaluating future environmental
initiatives. PCFO does not require municipalities to draft ordinances or adopt
legislation as a condition of membership. Its services are provided at no cost and
tailored to each municipality’s needs and priorities.
Mrs. Goodwin stated that Avon Lake was considered a strong candidate for membership
because the City already has several initiatives and resources that align with PCFO’s
mission, including electric vehicle charging stations, the EAB, and relationships with
environmental industry entities located within the City. Membership would offer
benefits similar to those the City receives through its relationship with the Northeast
Ohio Public Energy Council (NOPEC), which also works with PCFO. Also, the EAB would
serve as the primary avenue for increased residential involvement, working with PCFO
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October 26, 2026, Council Meeting

to identify potential projects and determine the scope of available technical
assistance. PCFO is expected to present to the EAB in 2027 to begin discussing and
identifying potential projects.
Mr. Kos expressed support for the Resolution, noting that membership does not
obligate the City to expend funds or remain a member indefinitely. He stated that
participation could provide access to grants and other resources, while any City
expenditures would remain subject to the established Committee and Council approval
processes. He supported moving forward, noting that the City could discontinue
participation if it no longer proved beneficial.
Mrs. Fenderbosch noted that PCFO membership carries no mandates or contractual
obligations and provides an additional resource for the City, particularly regarding
clean air initiatives.
Mrs. Goodwin further emphasized that residents retain the right to determine whether
and how they participate in sustainability initiatives. PCFO can help provide information
about available options, with the EAB serving as the resident-led advisory body to guide
future initiatives and public involvement.
Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Reynolds
No: None
Abstention: Haas
Motion passed.
Resolution No. 26-91 adopted.
Resolution No. 26-93, A RESOLUTION DECLARING COUNCIL’S CESSATION OF
COLLECTION OF AN EXISTING 1.5-MILL AD VALOREM PROPERTY TAX LEVY UPON
APPROVAL BY THE CITY’S ELECTORS OF PASSAGE OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE
CITY’S CODIFIED ORDINANCES TO PROVIDE FOR THE LEVY OF AN ADDITIONAL 0.40%
INCOME TAX, FOR SIX YEARS, COMMENCING JANUARY 1, 2027, was read by title only.
Council President Smith moved for passage of Resolution No. 26-93. This legislation
will provide for the elimination of the existing 1.5-mill property tax levy if voters
approve the additional 0.40% income tax levy on November 3, 2026. If approved, the
property tax levy would be eliminated beginning in January 2027.
Mr. Kos emphasized that the proposed property tax reduction is not intended to offset
the proposed 0.40% income tax increase but rather to help reduce residents’ overall
tax burden. The income tax increase would provide funding for road repairs and
infrastructure maintenance, while the property tax reduction demonstrates the City’s
recognition of residents’ tax burden and its commitment to providing relief where
possible without compromising needed services.
Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
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October 26, 2026, Council Meeting

Motion passed.
Resolution No. 26-93 adopted.
Ordinance No. 26-94, AN ORDINANCE AWARDING A CONTRACT FOR COMPREHENSIVE
INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR THE CITY OF AVON LAKE TO JACKSON DIEKEN &
ASSOCIATES AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY, was read by title only.
Council President Smith moved for passage of Ordinance No. 26-94. This legislation
will authorize the award of a contract to Jackson Dieken & Associates of Westlake,
Ohio, for comprehensive insurance coverage for the City and Avon Lake Regional
Water (ALRW) in an amount not to exceed $490,150. The policy is scheduled for
renewal on November 1, 2026.
Mrs. Fenderbosch stated that the increase in lawsuits has affected the City’s insurance
costs, resulting in an increase in the insurance deductible from $10,000 to $25,000 and
a rise in insurance premiums of more than 10%, exceeding the regional average
increase.
Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
Motion passed.
Ordinance No. 26-94 adopted.
First Reading:
Ordinance No. 26-98, AN ORDINANCE CONFIRMING THE MAYOR’S APPOINTMENT OF
FABRICE DONGO TO THE POSITION OF FINANCE DIRECTOR, ESTABLISHING THE RATE OF
COMPENSATION FOR SAID POSITION, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY, was read by title
only.
Mr. Reynolds moved for suspension of the rule requiring three readings.
Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
Motion passed.
Mr. Reynolds moved for passage of Ordinance No. 26-98. This legislation will confirm
the Mayor’s appointment of Fabrice Dongo as Finance Director at an annual salary of
$125,000 and a one-time, non-pensionable bonus of $800, effective October 27, 2026.
Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
Motion passed.
Ordinance No. 26-98 adopted.

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October 26, 2026, Council Meeting

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Mrs. Fenderbosch announced that a 12-year-old resident suggested a way to
support Community Resource Services (CRS) at the American Legion, 31972
Walker Road, Avon Lake. An event entitled “Dueling Pianos” will be held on
Sunday, November 22, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Admission is $15 for
adults, in addition to a donation of canned or non-perishable items.
2. Mr. Sweigart announced that a Ward 3 Meeting and/or Meet and Greet will be
held on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the First
Floor Conference Room at City Hall.
3. Mr. Haas announced that a Ward 1 Meeting will be held Tuesday, October 27,
2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Avon Lake Public Library. He also
advised Council that he will be traveling during the first part of November due
to previously scheduled commitments, which he had disclosed during the
interview process.
Mr. Kos moved for adjournment.
Yes: Smith, Fenderbosch, Goodwin, Sweigart, Kos, Haas, Reynolds
No: None
Motion passed.
Adjournment: 8:33 p.m.

Approved:

Council President

Attest:

Clerk of Council

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