John Doyle

The Sustainability Committee agenda focused on several key items, including updates on The Service Center Solar System project, which faced delays due to weather but is expected to meet federal tax credit qualification requirements. The committee also considered recommendations for renewing contracts with Rust Belt Riders for the Citywide Composting Program and Coventry Land Company LLC for Sustainability Consulting Services. Subcommittee reports covered updates on the Stormwater & Greenspace subcommittee, including the Grow Not Mow program sites and planting days, and discussions within the Energy Subcommittee regarding community solar legislation. A significant portion of the meeting involved a detailed discussion, informed by input from Cleveland Heights, regarding regional standards for LED streetlights, focusing on color temperature (K) and light shielding to address resident concerns about brightness and light trespass. Finally, the committee planned to proceed with the LEED for Cities recertification process for 2026.

The meeting included the swearing-in of a new Council representative to the Board of Zoning Appeals and City Planning Commission. A primary focus was a Public Hearing regarding amendments to the zoning ordinance text and zoning map requested by the City of Shaker Heights. Proposed changes involve renaming the CM Commercial Mixed Use zoning district to CM-1, and creating new CM-2 and CM-3 Commercial Mixed Use districts along Lee Road, replacing C3 Business Commercial zoning. Additionally, C2 General Commercial zoning on Larchmere Boulevard is proposed to be rezoned to CM-1. Discussions detailed specific use regulations for the new districts, including the prohibition of drive-throughs in CM-2 and CM-3, regulation of smoke shops, and inclusion of restaurants and cocktail bars. Following extensive discussion regarding drive-through compatibility, the body recommended approval to City Council with a condition: language must be included in the conditional use standards (Section 1263.09) requiring that any drive-through facility be appropriate for the adjacent development and surrounding neighborhood.

The Board of Appeals meeting agenda includes an introduction session with Board members and staff, including the Director of Law. The primary substantive item on the agenda is the consideration of an appeal regarding a Notice of Code Violation - Housing for property located at 12913 Larchmere Boulevard, Case No. BA-26-01-NAHC, submitted by Brick and Mortar Property Management. The agenda also lists a schedule of future meeting dates.

The Recreation Committee meeting agenda included a Work Session with discussions on changing outdoor pool time, receiving construction updates for Woodbury and Ludlow from the School District, and updates on the Youth Program Coordinator, Recreation Strategic Plan, Rink Study, Youth Collaborative, and potential Ludlow Gym Usage. Note that meeting minutes from November 2025 were slated for approval, and minutes from October 2025 were reviewed and approved during the November 2025 meeting.

This comprehensive Master Tree Plan for the City of Shaker Heights serves as a guide for improving and increasing the city's urban forest. The plan focuses on protecting and enhancing tree health and diversity, managing tree hazards, ensuring suitable tree planting, expanding the tree canopy in parks and public lands, and fostering community involvement. It also emphasizes safeguarding existing street trees from construction damage and enriching native tree species, with an overall vision to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of the urban forest for future generations.