City departments create a better quality of life in the community
Westlake in Bloom
Faces of Westlake Meet residents bringing character to the city
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CITY OF WESTLAKE
Dennis M. Clough Mayor
James Bedell Director of Planning and Economic Development
Michelle Boczek Economic Development Manager
WESTLAKE GUIDE
20 Map of Westlake
24 Residents’ Guide
35 Restaurant Guide
For advertising information, call 216-377-3693.
2 From the Mayor
Mayor Clough reflects on recent success stories.
6 Around Town
Learn more about new businesses opening throughout the city.
10 Westlake in Bloom
Check out the 2024 Westlake in Bloom winning landscape projects.
12 Serving the City
Discover how the service departments in the City of Westlake work behind the scenes to maintain residents’ high quality of living.
39 Faces of Westlake
Meet fellow residents who are making their mark and bring more character to the fabric of the community.
Year in Review
Mayor Dennis M. Clough reflects on the city’s success in 2024.
Investment. Transparency. Continual Improvement.
These are the community-first themes that defined 2024, which was another productive and positive one for the city, according to Westlake Mayor Dennis M. Clough.
“Overall 2024 was another good year for Westlake. I’m pleased that we were able to keep our team together and we’re able to continue to meet the needs of the community with quality service,” says Clough, 71, who has been mayor since 1986 and is in the last year of his current term. He plans to seek reelection.
A CPA by trade, Clough is especially proud of the city’s continued excellence in financial reporting.
“It’s definitely one of the things that I take seriously being a certified public accountant. I wanted to make sure that the city I was involved with had the best financial position it could get, and we've achieved that over the years,” he says. The city also continues to have a AAA bond rating, the highest credit rating possible.
That strong financial position paved the way for considerable reinvestment throughout Westlake in 2024 by way of parks and recreation, capital projects and infrastructure improvements — all a part of the city’s five-year plan that is updated and prioritized annually.
There was a big push to upgrade the athletic fields for young people in the community. At the former Parkside School site on Hilliard, the city is installing two AstroTurf multipurpose soccer and football fields. A third field will be installed at the Westlake Recreation Center, which will also be the site of upgraded baseball fields.
Clough also points to improvements in the walking trails and connections in both Clague Park and Bradley Nature Park. Mulch trails were upgraded to asphalt to make them easier to utilize and people can now bike on the paths. Trail links were connected.
The city also invested millions on infrastructure with storm sewer improvements as
well as normal maintenance of roadways, he says. And this is the fourth year that the city has accepted transfers and has been successful in maintaining the necessary staff in its police and fire departments.
Plus, when the tornado ripped through Northeast Ohio in August, city workers and first responders sprang into action as quickly as possible to help residents. “We put special emphasis on making sure that the trees were removed from the streets and assisted people with picking up all the debris,” Clough says.
Clough adds that he’s always out in the community and so are his staff.
“If they hear something that needs to be addressed, sometimes we can address it before it becomes a real problem and that's a benefit of being involved,” he says. “I’m at our rec center five to six days a week, and I get to hear from people all the time about what we’re doing well and the things that can be improved upon. Consequently, we are always looking to enhance our quality services.”
SERVING WESTLAKE AND
Open for Business
Learn about fresh faces joining the community and those making strides to expand their brand.
For anyone looking for new and exciting dining and shopping options, both at Crocker Park and around town, check out the newest additions to the neighborhood. From national chains to local entrepreneurs,
BANK OF AMERICA
all are looking forward to welcoming you and showing you what they have to offer.
ERIEBANK OF CROCKER PARK
Traditional banking meets technology in this 2,200 square-foot banking center located near Urban Air Adventure Park and Trader Joe’s. Although the traditional teller line has been replaced with high-top tables where transactions take place, five team members are still on hand to make your experience both comfortable and convenient. Those who want to skip the line can take advantage of the branch’s SMART Station, an enhanced teller machine that offers options beyond
traditional ATM functions, such as speaking to a live agent or processing a transaction even if you forget your debit card. “It’s sort of like banking the way it used to be,” says ERIEBANK President Wesley Gillespie. “It’s very personable.” 140 American Blvd., Mon.-Sat., eriebank.bank
BANK OF AMERICA
Located at the northwest corner of Crocker Road and Market Street, this 4,400 squarefoot full-service financial center with a driveup ATM is capable of handling all of your banking needs. From deposits and withdrawals to notary services, six employees
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ERIEBANK
are waiting to assist you with traditional services while a financial solutions advisor is on hand to help clients with investmentrelated products and questions. In a hurry? Schedule an appointment online with a banker prior to your visit. 130 Market St., Mon.-Sat., bankofamerica.com
OCEANNE
Designer Anne Harrill brings a modern and trendy spirit to her line of affordable yet unique jewelry, apparel, ceramics, candles, gifts and more to this boutiquestyle store, which also sells other designers’ wares. The Westlake location boasts a charm bar to create one-of-kind necklaces and bracelets for bachelorette parties, girls’ nights out and other social gatherings. Customers can also design their own permanent jewelry, selecting from 60 to 80 types of chains to create necklaces, bracelets and anklets that are welded on to create a perpetual sparkling accent piece. 295 Main St., Sun.-Sat., oceanne.net
MACY’S THE PROMENADE
The same name brands you love in a smaller footprint than its traditional department
stores, Macy’s at the Promenade focuses on convenience and community. Offering men’s, women’s and children’s apparel as well as beauty products, fragrances, toys and gifts, this boutique-style version of the beloved big-box chain boasts a more intimate experience, closer parking and central fitting rooms that allow girlfriends and significant others to gather and socialize in a lounge area that doubles as a selfie stage to model your newest, trendiest selections. Local vendors are invited to participate in pop-ups, a program called The Workshop, that showcase their talents and could lead to an invitation to showcase their products in the store or online. 30083 Detroit Road, Sun.-Sat., macys.com
APPLE
Currently located at 267 Crocker Park Blvd., the Apple store is moving to the former Charming Charlie storefront at 172 Crocker Park Blvd. This move gives the technology giant a much larger space and better visibility from Crocker Road. Additionally, customers will have greater access to a parking area behind the store. Apple has confirmed they are looking to re-open sometime in the Spring. apple.com
OCEANNE
MACY’S THE PROMENADE
CHOPT CREATIVE SALAD CO.
Known for its commitment to organic ingredients, Chopt offers clean eating sourced from local and sustainable farmers. Customers can select from seasonal menu favorites or build their own salads, wraps and bowls. Hearty soups, mindful snacks, fruitinfused drinks, to-go dressings and junior portions round out the selections at this convenience-based restaurant coming soon to Crocker Commons. 2207 Crocker Road, Suite C, Sun-Sat., choptsalad.com
NJOKU STRONG
Technology collides with fitness to create a one-stop shop for this health, wellness, recovery and fitness social club. Using electrical muscle stimulation, participants wear body suits that emit low-frequency electrical impulses to stimulate muscle contraction for a true full-body workout in a fraction of the time it takes to burn the same number of calories in a traditional program. The 3,000 square feet, features rudimentary equipment like dumbbells and kettlebells that helps users achieve results rather than using a variety of different pieces of equipment scattered throughout the gym, says owner Innocent Njoku. “The suit really does most of the
work,” says the entrepreneur, who began his career as a physician in neurosurgery. The facility doubles as a social lounge for those who are interested in meeting like-minded people dedicated to wellness. 1491 Columbia Road, Mon.-Sat., njokustrong.com
ZUZU CHOCOLATES
ZuZu Chocolates has room to spread out its gourmet chocolates, thanks to a move across the plaza. In addition to the truffles, chocolate clusters, candy bars and chocolate-covered pretzels the store is known for, the menu now includes gelato, coffee,
latte, hot chocolate and affogato — homemade vanilla bean Italian ice cream with two shots of espresso. The expanded showroom also now includes seating as well as a playhouse for the kids while the full kitchen — which is bigger than their former store — is complete with its own production line. A portion of the chocolatier’s proceeds goes to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of the owner Tamara Mlynowski’s mother, the store’s namesake, who died in January 2024. 26910 Center Ridge Road, Mon.-Sat., zuzuchocolates.com — Christine Schaffran
Dignity comes in pairs. Socks and underwear. Shampoo and soap. Gloves and hats. Driven by the ever-changing needs of our struggling neighbors, 100% of your gift delivers essential supplies and inspires resilience. Donate now to join us in doing good and providing basic necessities to those in need.
NJOKU STRONG
ZUZU CHOCOLATES
Be close to home.
At MetroHealth, we’re committed to providing convenient access to quality healthcare. That means no matter where you live in northeast Ohio, there’s a MetroHealth care team close to home.
Westlake Health Center
VISIT WESTLAKE HEALTH CENTER (LOCATED AT CROCKER PARK) FOR PRIMARY CARE, PEDIATRICS, WOMEN’S HEALTH, EAR, NOSE AND THROAT, AND MORE.
WESTLAKE IN BLOOM
• 2024 WINNERS •
EVERGREEN CEMETERY FENCE GARDENS
FIRST PLACE: In Memory of Phillip Kuhn
SECOND PLACE: The Eberling Family
THIRD PLACE: In Memory of Brett P. Luengo
HILLIARD BOULEVARD FLOWER BOX
FIRST PLACE: The Nimeh and Victor Muntaser Family, Box #41
SECOND PLACE:
In Memory of Mary Fanning, Box #67
THIRD PLACE: The Williamson Family Box, #214
COMMUNITY GARDEN
FIRST PLACE: Lee Ding, Box #1-2
SECOND PLACE: Patti Verde, Box #57
THIRD PLACE: Kathy Koch, Box #40
MULTI-FAMILY OR SUBDIVISION ENTRANCE
FIRST PLACE: Westown Gardens
SECOND PLACE: Bay Landing Condominiums
THIRD PLACE: Cornerstone HOA Landscape Committee: Karen Long, Rebecca Feran, Mary Hawal and Kim Williams
BUSINESS
FIRST PLACE: OxyGo
SECOND PLACE: The SpyGlass Group
THIRD PLACE: Lakewood Elks Lodge No. 1350
PLACE OF WORSHIP/ INSTITUTIONAL
FIRST PLACE: Westlake Porter Public Library
SECOND PLACE: St. Ladislas Catholic Church
THIRD PLACE: Westlake Seventh-Day Adventist Church
POLLINATOR GARDEN
FIRST PLACE: Amy Shiever and Mark Ray, 1735 Settlers Reserve Way
SECOND PLACE: Terri Jean Mosham, 2834 Clark Parkway
THIRD PLACE: Steven Genther and Elizabeth Nici, 31377 Saint Andrews
VEGETABLE GARDEN
FIRST PLACE: James Shields, 3260 Canterbury Road
SECOND PLACE: Robert J. Pietraroia, 28560 Bassett Road
THIRD PLACE: John R. Anstead, 1925 Holdens Arbor Circle
WINDOW/FLOWER
BOXES
FIRST PLACE: Beverly Wilkinson, 25800 Iris Court
SECOND PLACE: Michelle Walsh, 1524 Marview Drive
THIRD PLACE: Karen Ludwig-Wong, 2365 Brigadoon Court
RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPING –FRONT YARD
FIRST PLACE: James and Jean Moran, 1933 Reeds Court Trail
SECOND PLACE: Lacey and Tony Grego, 1082 Fresno Drive
THIRD PLACE: Robert and Annette Koenig, 29181 Schwartz Road
RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPING –REAR YARD
FIRST PLACE: Mayuresh Dhond, 27102 Courtland Meadows
SECOND PLACE: Bill and Rosalie Mueller, 30354 Hilliard Blvd.
THIRD PLACE: Jake Pease, 1377 East Melrose
RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPING –ENTIRE YARD, SMALL
FIRST PLACE: Sandy Overko, 2385 Chapparal South
SECOND PLACE: Jay and Sally Magee, 1093 Clubside Drive
THIRD PLACE: Mitchell Ma, 2330 Pebblebrook
RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPING –ENTIRE YARD, LARGE
FIRST PLACE: Marian Ext and Dr. Roger Mansnerus and Ava and Colin Ext, 30085 Persimmon Drive
SECOND PLACE: Nancy Schill, 2237 Silveridge Trail
THIRD PLACE: Adam Reich, 30010 Sequoia Trail
LU WALTER “BEST IN BLOOM” AWARD
Marian Ext and Dr. Roger Mansnerus and Ava and Colin Ext, 30085 Persimmon Drive
PHOTO KEY
1. In Memory of Phillip Kuhn
2. The Nimeh and Victor Muntaser Family
3. Lee Ding
4. Westown Gardens
5. OxyGo
6. Westlake Porter Public Library
7. Amy Shiever and Mark Ray
8. James Shields
9. Beverly Wilkinson
10. James and Jean Moran
11. Mayuresh Dhond
12. Sandy Overko
13. Marian Ext and Dr. Roger Mansnerus and Ava and Colin Ext
Westlake’s city departments strive to deliver top-notch services and positive experiences for residents and visitors alike.
By Christine Schaffran
SERVING THE CITY
With so many faces around town, it may be difficult to distinguish the department heads who are responsible for bringing in businesses, hauling out the trash, buying supplies, building structures, prosecuting the accused and planning for the city’s future.
So here’s a glimpse at some of the individuals working behind the scenes to deliver top-notch services and maintain public safety around town. Rest assured they toil away endlessly on your behalf, so be sure to thank them if you happen to bump into one of them. Their dedication is endless, and they deserve a round of applause.
PUBLIC SERVICE
Chris Stuhm’s work is so behindthe-scenes, you probably never really see him. But you appreciate his department’s handywork all over the city. In fact, they arrive before you do to every parade, Easter egg hunt, sports tournament, planting day and every other special event hosted by the city, and they stay long after you’ve left.
Stuhm’s 58 members of the service department dedicate every day to service. Whether it’s mowing the grass at Clague Park, keeping buildings cool for your refreshment, maintaining the city’s fleet of vehicles, overseeing the grounds at Evergreen and Maple Ridge cemeteries, cleaning storm sewers or snow removal, they are caring for the grounds and delivering the services you’ve come to expect.
With more than 20 years in the department, Stuhm served as facilities and vehicle manager and deputy director prior to becoming the Director of Public Service.
While he now oversees operations of the entire department, including the budget, fleet and service workers including mechanics, office staff, managers, housekeeping individuals and HVAC personnel, Stuhm is no stranger to what it takes to get the job done. He is also keenly aware of each detailed service that not only residents can rely on, but other co-workers as well.
“It’s a robust city and we’re a fullservice city, so the residents here benefit from flooding assistance to dye testing and leaf collection,” he explains. “We answer to not only all the residents
24/7, but we also support and respond to all the inside departments like police and fire, city hall, the rec center and all the other departments we work hand in hand with.”
The department is also heavily involved in composting leaves and grinding curbside brush-collection materials into wood chips.
Although he may still be finding his footing at the helm, Stuhm’s feet are firmly planted in knowing each task that is expected by the service department. And it’s a challenge he confronts head on.
“It’s a full-time job and a half providing all of the services we provide,” he admits. “But I just enjoy the day-to-day challenge.”
PURCHASING
As the Director of Purchasing, Larry Surber knows a little about a lot of what goes on in every city department. That’s because every purchase — from pens and paper to fire trucks — funnels through his office for a stamp of approval.
The purchasing department is run by two people, Surber, and secretary Samantha Walling, who handles all of the administrative functions. The two are responsible for “procuring goods and services at the best value for the city,” Surber explains. But that’s not as easy as it sounds.
City charter rules and state statutes regulate government spending, which means purchases over certain price points require cities to do a little legwork.
“It’s a little different than the private sector. If they want something, they could just go buy it,” Surber explains. “In my case, depending on the dollar amounts, I either have to get multiple quotations, bid it, or buy it through a cooperative purchasing program.”
In addition to the bidding process — which includes writing, soliciting, opening and evaluating an average of 12 to 20 bids per year — Surber is constantly evaluating items such as financial software and PA systems.
“We talk with the vendors, look at their different solutions that they’re proposing, and try to make a determination on what’s the best fit,” he notes. “Because it’s more of a design/build; it’s not like I’m comparing a Chevy and a Ford pickup truck.”
Another area Surber is responsible for is scrutinizing and ultimately selecting all of the utility contracts for the city.
“People don’t think about it and some probably don’t realize it, but we have to go out to bid for gas and electrical services,” he notes.
And if you think the options are difficult in selecting a utility carrier, try building a ladder truck from scratch for the fire department.
“There’s not a dealership where we just go buy those,” Surber quips. “They’re all built to order.”
Only after 509 line items and a committee to assess the rig can a purchase like that be made, he notes.
PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
There’s a blueprint that maps out how every piece of property can be used in Westlake — it’s called zoning. Jim Bedell’s job is to help businesses, developers and residents navigate the procedures for bringing their visions to life.
“When a new development is coming to our community, or if it is here already and they want to change something, planning is often their first stop,” Bedell explains. “We check zoning and planning and platting codes to see if it’s something that can be approved administratively or requires planning commission approval.”
The Planning Department provides staff support to Westlake’s planning commission that reviews all new development plans, conditional use permits, signs, storefronts, subdivision plats and rezonings for retail and office establishments, restaurants, institutional facilities, industrial and residential developments. The planning commission reviews an estimated 95 cases per year for things as simple as a new wall sign or as complex as a new shopping center. Every
month, staff prepares detailed reports and analysis used by the commission in making their determinations. Around 175 items are reviewed annually for in-house administrative approval too.
Planning staff also author’s Westlake’s Comprehensive Guide Plan containing future community development goals, objectives, proposals, and policies adopted by the planning commission. In addition to aiding the planning commission, the department’s Clerk of Commissions provides administrative support to the Board of Building and Zoning Appeals, Civil Service Commission and Records Commission.
Bedell adds that he enjoys the problemsolving aspect of serving the public. “It’s not uncommon for our residents and developers to have differing viewpoints,” he notes. “We try to find that common ground to keep all parties happy, which is all about problem-solving and conflict resolution. So while it can be a challenging profession, it’s also deeply satisfying and never boring.”
Planning and Economic Development work together to help the city stay and grow strong. Michelle Boczek is the conduit between the city and the business community. Whether it’s answering questions from existing businesses or working with real estate brokers and consultants to find the perfect location for a new business, her mission is the same.
“My job is to do what I can to keep [businesses] here so that the tax dollars remain here in the community, which then supports city services,” she explains.
At 1.5% —Westlake’s local income tax is one of the lowest in Cuyahoga County, something the mayor takes pride in.
“That money goes into the general fund and that helps to fund basically all the city services here,” she notes. “So that’s why it’s so important to make sure that we have a thriving business community.”
Boczek does her best to help businesses by assisting with tax-incentive programs, and internally by applying for grants for economic development improvement projects.
When she’s not tracking tax abatements, creating reports to comply with state requirements or developing strategic plans for economic development, she’s talking with seniors at the community center at a Coffee and Conversation about new businesses coming to town. Of course, most of the information is considered top secret until a deal is inked and the company agrees to sign a lease.
But when all the pieces fit together, she can proudly announce that she assisted in creating incentives that bring in businesses like CommuteAir, a regional airline and United Express partner. The company is relocating its corporate headquarters to a 29,950-square-foot facility at 2205 Crocker Road in Crocker Commons and expects to be settled in by spring 2025. They’re bringing 180 jobs with them, Boczek says.
“We all work for the residents, but I also then work on behalf of the business community. I like that. It’s sort of a side that most people don’t get to touch,” she notes.
Westlake Planning Commission
PUBLIC RELATIONS
If there’s a message that needs conveying to residents or city employees, chances are Jorden Shevel has a hand in writing it.
From the city newsletter to the website to social media, Shevel puts his skills to the test every day writing news stories, public announcements and internal memos as well as assisting the mayor in delivering pertinent information.
“I collaborate with the mayor to efficiently deliver his message to the community,” notes Shevel, a city employee for nearly two years.
The Kent State University graduate has also taken the helm to streamline communications to improve the dialogue between residents and the city. Very soon, instead of calling or emailing a department head, Shevel notes, residents will be able to simply send a message to relay words of praise or report a problem via a new mobile app, which will be an offshoot of the city’s new website.
“I hope it improves two-way communication,” Shevel says. “Especially because we get a lot of ‘Report a Concern’ messages, and I think it’s a good idea for people to be able to reach out to their city and the directors.”
He also does all the videography, photography and a bi-weekly podcast for the city. So, you might see his face around town, but he won’t actually be in any photos because he’s the one taking them.
ENGINEERING
As the Director of Engineering Jim Smolik knows his way around every roadway, sidewalk, sewer line and water line in Westlake.
But that’s just where his list of duties begins.
When Mother Nature unleashes unrelenting rain storms in early spring, it’s only a matter of time before basements and backyards across Northeast Ohio begin to pool with stormwater surge. And when they do, the engineering department is ready to assist Westlake’s residents with rear-yard drainage and basement-mitigation assessments.
“A home is [a resident’s] largest investment,” Smolik explains. So the city of Westlake realizes that and we try to be there as a technical advisor to the resident if they need it,” Smolik explains. “We will come out and do an investigation and provide a recommendation on how to mitigate your problem in the most cost-effective way.”
And with roots that run as deep as his, Smolik can almost diagnose a problem before he sees it.
But when it comes to what makes his job truly interesting, Smolik points to the multitude of projects in which he is invited to collaborate.
For instance, the recreation department is currently working on three projects simultaneously:
1. Installing synthetic turf on two multipurpose fields at Parkside Athletic Fields
2. Upgrading the recreation center fields with two baseball fields with synthetic turf infields and one multipurpose field
3. Upgrading the Meadowood Golf Course to include a driving range and practice facility
“I would have never thought in a million years doing this job, I would ever be helping design a driving range,” Smolik quips. “And it’s not a simple driving range either. We’re putting all kinds of technology into it because this is Westlake, and we always want to do the best that we can on these projects.”
Smolik says the variety is what keeps him going and he wouldn’t have it any other way. “That’s what makes it interesting,” he explains. “Every day is a little bit different as far as what types of problems we’re solving.”
O’Neill Healthcare has proudly served Cleveland’s west side for over six decades offering senior healthcare at every level.
Our Bay Village location features a renovated, secure Memory Support Wing for those with cognitive impairments. Fairview Park and North Ridgeville offer on-site dialysis care, while hospice and palliative care services are available across all six locations and in-home.
We are honored to serve veterans through our VA contract and accept Medicare, Medicaid, commercial insurance, and private pay.
BUILDING
Donald Grayem oversees the day-today operations of the building department. He supervises his 9 employees, as well as the best interests of residents and the community as a whole.
“We’re an extension of the state of Ohio’s building standards and we work on enforcing codes to get compliance just as they would,” notes Grayem, the Chief Building Official.
It is for this reason that he defines the work his department does conducting 4,000 to 5,000 building inspections a year as customer service.
“The service we provide makes our city safer, and our housing stock remains very strong because of what we do,” he says.
In addition to coordinating daily inspections, conducting plan reviews of new establishments and enforcing the zoning code, Grayem encourages inspectors to take the time at each site to answer questions and lend their expertise where applicable.
He adds they try very hard to fight the stigma that pulling permits for a project at a residence opens the door to costly violations or other trouble. Rather, he wants to be known as a valuable resource
for residents to seek answers that will ultimately save money — and sometimes lives — when a building or structure is built properly.
He cites the department’s dedication to fire prevention and education as a top priority that has paid dividends and spared more than a couple structures from becoming a total loss.
Of course, there are also the incidents that no one can plan for, such as a vehicle running through a guardrail and dangling from a second-story parking garage. Even then, Grayem will be on hand not to punish — but to protect — both the citizens and to ensure the structure is sound.
Another arm of his department — property maintenance — aims to protect the quality of residents’ properties by enforcing zoning and building codes and construction regulations.
“My whole career here, 32 years, Westlake has been developing and developing correctly when it comes to buildings and zoning,” he reports. “You can drive through Westlake and notice there’s something different about this city, and that’s a good thing.”
LAW DEPARTMENT
Imagine having a job as important as creating, updating and writing the language for the city’s Constitution.
As a charter city, Westlake is one of more than 300 cities in the state that operates its government under local “home rule.”
This means that charter cities adopt laws that take precedence over state laws and residents vote to approve or deny them via ballot issues, according to the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections.
As Law Director, Michael Maloney is responsible for revising, drafting and changing this document.
“It gives us a lot of local control over the city’s business,” Maloney explains. “My department is very involved in revisions, changes and drafting because it’s such a legally weighty document.”
Maloney also acts as the city’s lawyer, advising the mayor, council and department directors on any matters that require guidance.
When it comes to public interaction, Maloney’s office dutifully fulfills any public-record requests received and pledges that his office remains dedicated to an open government and full disclosure of information to residents.
And with the assistance of two assistant prosecutors, Maloney ensures the welfare and safety of residents by prosecuting anyone who commits a crime within the city limits — a role he embraces with enthusiasm.
“I get great professional satisfaction in handling Westlake’s criminal cases. My responsibilities with law enforcement are by far the favorite part of my job,” he admits. “I’m a prosecutor. “When I started practicing right out of law school, prosecuting was absolutely my passion.”
Although Maloney’s job comes with many hats as an elected official, he says he takes pride in representing residents, not just because he is an employee, but a resident himself.
“I’m glad I landed here,” he says. “I live here, I work here, and I think most residents agree that this is kind of a special situation we have in Westlake. It really is.”
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Williams Dr F3 Willow Run E6 Winchester Ct D2 Winchester Dr D2
Windrush Dr H1
Windsong Ct D5
Windward Dr C3
Wingedfoot Dr H4
Winterberry Ln A8
Wonneta Pkwy H2
Wood Oak Cir B5
Woodcreek Cir D4
Woodgate Cir D6
Woodland Way D1
Woodlyn Pl B7
Woodmill Dr C4
Woodpath Trl F6
Woodruff Ct B4
Woodside Dr D1
Wyndgate Ct B4
Yellow Birch Way C7
Yeoman Dr F4
Yorktown Dr B6
Zinfandel Ct C2
Westlake Village Dr C5 Weston Ave. F3
ABOUT
THE CITY OF WESTLAKE
Area
15.97 square miles
Website www.cityofwestlake.org
Location
Cuyahoga County outerring suburb, due west of Cleveland. About 15 minutes west of downtown Cleveland via the city’s three interchanges on I-90.
The following data is taken from Census Quick Facts or the 2020 Census, unless otherwise noted.
Westlake Residents’ Guide
A comprehensive resource directory of important names, phone numbers and listings.
City Officials
The City of Westlake has a mayor, six ward council representatives, a president of council and a law director all serving four-year terms.
Mayor
Dennis M. Clough
440/871-3300
Council
The council meets on the first and third Thursday of each month in City Hall at 8 p.m. Council committee meetings are scheduled as needed.
President
David S. Greenspan
440/835-3820
Ward 1
Duane Van Dyke
440/241-1817
Ward 2
Nick Nunnari
440/263-2215
Ward 3
Dennis J. Sullivan
440/835-8661
Ward 4
Michael F. O’Donnell
440/777-7814
Ward 5
Amy G. Havelka
440/482-6800
Ward 6
Mark R. Getsay
440/360-7418
Clerk of Council
Denise L. Rosenbaum
440/617-4053
(U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Nov. 2019)
Form of Government Mayor/Council
Law Director
Michael P. Maloney
440/871-3300
City Departments
Building Department
Donald Grayem, Director City Hall
27700 Hilliard Blvd. 440/871-3300
Community Services Department
Lydia Gadd, Director 28975 Hilliard Blvd. 440/899-3544
Economic Development
Michelle Boczek, Manager City Hall
27700 Hilliard Blvd. 440/871-3300
Engineering Department
Jim Smolik, Director City Hall
27700 Hilliard Blvd. 440/871-3300
Finance Department
Prashant Shah, Director City Hall
27700 Hilliard Blvd. 440/871-3300
Fire Department
Matt Moran, Fire Chief 3200 Crocker Rd. 440/871-3441
Law Department
Michael P. Maloney, Director City Hall
27700 Hilliard Blvd. 440/871-3300
Planning and Zoning
James Bedell, AICP, Director
City Hall
27700 Hilliard Blvd. 440/871-3300
Police Department
Kevin Bielozer, Chief 27300 Hilliard Blvd. 440/871-3311
Purchasing Department
Larry Surber, Director City Hall
27700 Hilliard Blvd. 440/871-3300
Recreation Department
Paula Horner, Director 28955 Hilliard Blvd. 440/808-5700
Service Department
Chris Stuhm, Director Service Center 741 Bassett Road 440/835-6432
City Buildings & Locations EMERGENCY POLICE & FIRE 9-1-1
City Hall
27700 Hilliard Blvd. 440/871-3300
Hours: 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Fire Department Station #1 3200 Crocker Road 440/835-6461 (non-emergency)
Fire Department Station #2 2110 Columbia Road 440/835-6454 (non-emergency)
Mark Getsay (Ward 6), Amy Havelka (Ward 5), Michael O’Donnell (Ward 4), Mayor Dennis Clough, Dave Greenspan (City Council President), Dennis Sullivan (Ward 3), Nick Nunnari (Ward 2),
Van Dyke (Ward 1), Michael Maloney (Law Director)
Meadowood Golf Course
29800 Center Ridge Road
440/835-6442
Westlake Aquatic Center & Peterson Pool
Hilliard Blvd. & Clague Road
440/835-6436 (in-season only)
Police Department (non-emergency)
27300 Hilliard Blvd.
440/871-3311
Recreation Department
Recreation Center
28955 Hilliard Blvd.
440/808-5700
Service Center
741 Bassett Road
440/835-6432
Westlake City Schools
School Officials
Westlake City School District
24365 Hilliard Blvd.
440/871-7300
Superintendent Dr. Scott Goggin
440/871-7300
CFO/Treasurer
Todd Hopkins
440/835-6301
Board of Education
Board meetings are generally at 6 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at the Administration Building, 24365 Hilliard Blvd.
Members
John Finucane
Joe Kraft
Brad Lamb
Barbara Leszynski
Liz Pirnat
Important School Numbers
In the event of hazardous weather conditions, school closings will be announced over local radio and television stations. Please do not contact the Westlake schools.
High School Main Office
440/835-6352
School Buildings
Dover Intermediate School
2240 Dover Center Road
440/835-5494
Lee Burneson Middle School
2260 Dover Center Road
440/835-6340
Westlake High School
27830 Hilliard Blvd.
440/835-6352
Westlake Elementary School
27555 Center Ridge Road
440/250-1200
24-Hour Attendance
440/250-1201
Westlake PTAs
Westlake Council of PTAs wlake.org/parents
Private Schools
St. Paul Lutheran 27981 Detroit Road 440/835-3051
St. Bernadette Catholic School 2300 Clague Road 440/734-7717
Westlake Montessori 26830 Detroit Road 440/835-5858
Westside Christian Academy 23096 Center Ridge Road 440/331-1300
Schools & Colleges
Corporate College West 25425 Center Ridge Road Westlake, OH 44145 216/987-6000 corporatecollege.com
Cuyahoga Community College Westshore Campus 31001 Clemens Road Westlake, OH 44145 216/987-6000 westshore@tri-c.edu
Cable/Internet/ Satellite Providers
AT&T U-Verse ATT.com
Breezeline 866/496-9669
Spectrum 877/772-2253
DirecTV 800/769-7389
Newspapers
The Plain Dealer 216/999-6000 cleveland.com
Westlake Patch westlake.patch.com
Westlife News westlifenews.com 440/871-5797
West Shore Sun cleveland.com/westshoresun/
Service Clubs
Dover Lodge 440/290-9489
Elks Lodge #1350 440/617-9653
Fraternal Order of Police 440/835-4949
Kiwanis Club of Westlake 440/829-0974
Westlake/Bay Village Rotary Club 216/952-5556
Westlake Garden Club westlakegardenclub.org
Westlake Women’s Club 440/250-5561
Westshore Lions Club 440/250-5564
Westlake Town Criers P.O. Box 45224 Westlake, OH 44145
Westlake Post Office 27300 Center Ridge Road 440/250-9529
Utilities
AT&T
att.com
The Illuminating Co. – FirstEnergy firstenergycorp.com
Cleveland Water Department City of Cleveland 216/664-3130 216/664-3060 (emergency repairs)
Columbia Gas of Ohio 800/344-4077
Finances & Taxes
Bond Rating
Westlake’s bond rating from Moody’s Investment Service is AAA and from Standard & Poors and Fitch IBCA is AAA. Westlake shares these distinguished ratings with only 16 other cities in the state. This rating is important because it relates directly to the amount of interest residents would have to pay for special assessments.
Income Tax
The city has a 1.5% income tax, which is collected by and paid to the Regional Income Tax Agency. This tax rate is one of the lowest within Cuyahoga County. All residents are required to file a tax return by April 15, 2024. A 100% credit is granted for income tax paid to a community outside of Westlake to the extent that the taxes paid equal or exceed the taxes calculated as due to Westlake. Tax forms for payment of city income tax are available at the city’s website, cityofwestlake.org, or directly from the Regional Income Tax Agency at 440/526-0900 or at its website, ritaohio.com. You may also use its free e-file service, which is simple and easy to use.
Real Estate
Property Tax
At 52.90, Westlake property owners enjoy one of the lowest effective tax rates for residential property of any
of the western Cuyahoga County communities. A Westlake resident will pay $1,660 in real property tax per $100,000 of market value on his/her residence in 2025. All real estate taxes are paid on a semiannual basis (July and February) to the Cuyahoga County Treasurer.
Utility Billing
The City of Westlake maintains a sewer distribution system, which is tied into the Rocky River Treatment Plant. Billings are sent out quarterly and are due within 30 days. Sewer bills may be paid online, by mail or at City Hall. Westlake residential sewer fees are billed on a flat-rate costrecovery basis, and no meters are read. Your residential sewer bill is not based on the amount of water you use. Billing and due dates are clearly noted on the billing. NOTE: Water is provided by the City of Cleveland, which sends out a monthly billing based on meter readings.
Laws for everyday life
Provided by: Law Director, Michael P. Maloney
Animals: Are not permitted to run at large and must be kept under control. In particular, dogs must be on a leash when off the owner’s property. Nearly all pets must have current rabies shots. If a dog is repeatedly on the loose, attacks another dog or a person, or acts aggressively while at large, it could result in serious penalties for the owner. Ohio law provides that dogs be classified as “nuisance,” “dangerous,” or “vicious,” depending on behavior. These classifications have corresponding sanctions, which an owner should know. See, O.R.C. 955.22, W.C.O. 505.01.
Barbecue Grills/LP Tanks: Storage and use restricted in apartment/ condominium complexes. Those that produce flames cannot be used on balconies of multifamily residential structures or within 15 feet of any structure. Standard grill-sized tanks and larger are prohibited in apartment/condominium units on balconies, basements, corridors and any space within the building.
Drainage: The City of Westlake owns and maintains both sanitary and storm sewer lines throughout the community. Prior to any major improvements to your property that might affect drainage, contact the Engineering Department. If you are experiencing any sewer problems, contact the Department of Public Service.
Easements: Many properties have storm sewer easements. Before adding any trees, shrubs, fencing or gardens over easements, contact the Engineering Department to obtain a $5 permit. Fences require an additional building permit; see below.
RESIDENTS’
Fences: Permits are required for all fences. In residential areas, the maximum height of a backyard fence is 6 feet. Contact the Building Department for additional requirements that may apply.
Firearms, BB Guns and Airsoft Guns: Cannot be discharged within the city limits. Firearms cannot be carried into any city building by anyone except law enforcement officers. There are numerous other locations where firearms may not be carried, including churches, schools and various types of businesses. See Section 2923 of the Ohio Revised Code for more information.
Fireworks: The possession, sale or discharge of fireworks is prohibited. (ORD.1519.04)
Grading and Drainage: When you are having a drainage problem or planning on re-grading or filling any
portions of your property, a grading permit may be required. Contact the Engineering Department prior to doing any work for a complimentary evaluation of your property issues.
Home Repairs, Remodeling and Additions: Contractors working on your home must be registered with the city. A list of registered contractors, permit requirements, applications and Building Code information can be obtained in the Building Department or on the city’s website.
Home/Yard Maintenance: Outdoor operation of domestic power tools such as saws and lawn and garden tools (except snow removal equipment) is prohibited weekdays from 9 p.m. to 8 a.m., and weekends from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m.
Open Fires/Burning: No open burning is permitted except for small, controlled campfires. Fires for the purposes of burning garbage, landscape waste or any other trash/ waste are prohibited. (ORD. 1511)
Parking: Is prohibited on city streets between 3 and 6 a.m. Trucks, trailers
or semi-trailers may not be parked on the street in front of residential property unless the vehicle is disabled or being unloaded. Recreational equipment such as boats, motor homes and truck campers may not be parked for more than 72 hours in a three-week period unless owned by the resident and not in use. Do not park on both sides of a street, even if no signs are posted. Parking is permitted only on the non-hydrant side of the street.
Rental Licenses: All one, two and three family homes that are rented require a Rental License. Licenses are issued to the property owner/landlord after the property passes inspections by the Building Department. Additional information is listed on the Building Department’s web page.
Satellite Dishes: A building permit is NOT required for the installation of a dish antenna unless it is more than 2 meters in diameter.
Security Cameras: Are legally permitted on private property. Unless security video recordings include audio, or are recording subject matter that would fall under an expectation of privacy (viewing the inside of another person’s home), there are currently very few legal restrictions. Technology seems to have outpaced the law in this area. Again, however, audio recording is generally prohibited. Additionally, persistent video recording of others that a court might find to be harassing can lead to private civil lawsuits, independent of state or local criminal statues. See 18 U.S. Code 2511, O.R.C. 2933.52.
Smoke Detectors: Required in all residential tenant areas of multifamily apartments and condominiums and in all newly constructed single-family homes.
Solicitors: Persons selling items door-to-door must have an official city license. Persons asking for donations to charities or nonprofit groups must notify the Police Department in advance of going door-to-door.
Swimming Pools: Permits are required for in-ground pools, spas and hot tubs. Contact the Building Department for additional requirements that may apply.
Yard Sales: Permits are required and may be obtained from the cashier at City Hall for a fee of $2 prior to conducting the sale. Only one sign advertising the sale is permitted. Additional information is listed on the sale permit.
Vehicle Sales: Permits are required and may be obtained from the cashier at City Hall for a fee of $2 prior to conducting the sale. Only one sign advertising the sale is permitted. Additional information is listed on the sale permit.
Whom to call with questions
Air Conditioner Permits
Building Department
440/871-3300
Animal Control
Police Department
440/892-3150
Appliance Disposal Rumpke
800/828-8171
Auxiliary Police Liaison Officer Police Department
440/871-3311
Better Business Bureau
216/241-7678
Bicycle License Police Department
440/871-3311
Birth & Death Certificates
Bureau of Vital Statistics
216/664-2315
Block Parties Police Department
440/871-3311
Board of Education
440/871-7300
Board of Elections
216/443-8683
Board of Health
216/201-2000
Building Permits Building Department
440/871-3300
Chamber of Commerce
440/835-8787
City Hall
440/871-3300
Clague Cabin Recreation Department 440/808-5700
Commercial Development Planning Department 440/871-3300
Council Members Council Office 440/871-3300
Crime Prevention Police Department
440/871-3311
D.A.R.E. Police Department 440/871-3311
Disturbing the Peace Police Department 440/871-3311
Ditches and Drainage (General Information) Service Department
440/871-3300
Driveway Repair Permits Engineering Department 440/871-3300
Easements
Engineering Department
440/871-3300
Economic Development
440/871-3300
Electrical Permits/Inspections
Building Department
440/871-3300
Emergency Food/Service Westlake Center for Community Services
440/899-3544
Fences
Building Department
440/871-3300
Fire Prevention Fire Department
440/871-3441
Fire Hydrants (leakage, damage) Fire Department
440/871-3441
Garage Permits
Building Department
440/871-3300
Historic Properties
Planning Department
440/871-3300
Housing Inspection
Building Department
440/871-3300
HVAC Permits/Inspections
Building Department
440/871-3300
Income Tax
Finance Department
440/871-3300
Juvenile Problems
Juvenile Officer Police Department
440/892-3152
Leaf Collection
Service Department
440/835-6432
Licensed Contractors
Building Department
440/871-3300
Litter
Service Department
440/835-6432
Marriage Licenses
216/443-8920
Mayor’s Office
440/871-3300
Meadowood Golf Course
Recreation Department
440/835-6442
Meetings, City
440/871-3300
Meetings, School
440/871-7300
Mosquito Complaints
Cuyahoga County Board of Health
216/201-2000
Open Burning Complaints
Fire Department
440/871-3441
Westlake Aquatic Center & Peterson Pool
Clague Park
440/835-6436
Planning Department
440/871-3300
Plumbing Permits/Inspections
Building Department
440/871-3300
Post Office
27300 Center Ridge Road
440/250-9529
Property Maintenance Building Department 440/871-3300
Property Tax Assessment County Fiscal Office 216/443-7010
Prosecutor Police Department 440/871-3311
Real Estate Valuation County Fiscal Office 216/443-7010
Recreation Center Recreation Department 440/808-5700
Recycling
Rumpke Waste & Recycling Services 800/828-8171
Additional recycling and disposal info: Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District: 216/443-3749
Recycling and Rubbish Procedures for SingleFamily Homes
Rumpke Waste and Recycling Services provides residential rubbish and recycling collection services for the City of Westlake. For questions, concerns, or to report rubbish and/or recycling that was not collected, contact Rumpke at 800-828-8171.
Day and Time of Collection
Recycling and rubbish will be collected on the same day each week, except when a holiday falls on or before your regular collection day. Then recycling and rubbish will be collected one (1) day later. If the holiday falls on a weekend, it will not affect collection. Please place your rubbish and recycling at the tree lawn by 6 a.m. on your collection day, or preferably after 6 p.m. the night before. Place rubbish and recycling carts on opposite sides of your driveway. Collection time may vary each week due to volume, traffics delays, time of year, weather, etc. Also, carts must be removed within 24 hours of collection and stored in a manner that they cannot be seen from the street. (City Code 951.02)
Holidays that affect collection: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
CART PLACEMENT GUIDELINES
Place carts out the night before your service day.
1. Place items inside the cart and close the lid.
2. Face the opening toward the street (face handle away).
3. Place cart within 3 ft. of the street and 3 ft. away from objects, including mailboxes.
Rubbish Information
Rubbish must be bagged and placed in the provided brown, Rumpke 96-gallon rubbish cart.
On occasion, excess rubbish can be placed in plastic trash bags only and placed next to your rubbish cart on your collection day (bags must weigh less than 50 lbs).
Residents who frequently place out excess rubbish bags may be required to obtain a second Rumpke rubbish cart. If you need an additional rubbish cart, contact Rumpke at 800-828-8171.
Reminder: mattresses, box springs and upholstered furniture (couches, chairs, etc.) must be wrapped in plastic for health reasons.
Recycling Information
Place recyclables in the provided green, Rumpke 65-gallon recycling cart. Recycling must be left loose, do not use bags. Recyclables should fit in your cart. Excess recycling cannot be placed in bags next to your recycle cart. Make sure you are recycling properly by breaking down cardboard boxes and only recycling the items identified on the lid of your recycling cart. If you need an additional recycling cart, contact Rumpke at 800-828-8171.
Responsible recycling habits help reduce the amount of items in our landfills. Too much “wish-cycling” of items, attempting to recycle those that are not currently accepted for recycling, can contaminate the load and cause all of the items to be rejected by the processor. The load is then sent to a landfill.
Combine these items in your recycling cart:
• CANS AND ALUMINUM CUPS: Includes all metal food and beverage cans such as pop, beer, soup, vegetable, tuna, and Ball brand aluminum cups. Cans/cups should be emptied, rinsed, and then recycled.
• CARTONS: Includes milk, juice, soup and broth plus wine cartons. Cartons should be emptied and rinsed. Replace the cap and place in your curbside recycling.
• GLASS: Includes glass food and beverage bottles and jars. Empty, rinse and replace the lid before recycling. You do not need to remove the label.
• PAPER AND BOXES: All paper and boxes can be recycled, including newspapers, magazines, junk mail, boxes, greeting cards, cereal boxes, cardboard, phone books and clean pizza boxes. Flatten cardboard items, like cereal boxes, to save space.
• PLASTIC BOTTLES AND JUGS, TUBS, CUPS AND CLEAR CLAMSHELL CONTAINERS: Empty plastic bottles, jugs, tubs, cups and clear clamshell containers can be placed in your curbside recycling. This includes items like water and soda bottles, shampoo bottles, milk, water and juice jugs, laundry detergent jugs, bleach bottles, butter tubs, yogurt tubs, yogurt cups, fruit cups, fast-food cups (no Solo cups), souvenir cups and clear clamshell containers like fruit, berry, lettuce, carry-out, and egg containers. Items should be emptied and rinsed. Replace the cap/lid and put in your curbside recycling. Throw away straws and stoppers with trash. Not all plastics with the 1-7 symbol are recyclable. The numbering refers specifically to the resin within the plastic.
For the most up-to-date details about recycling, visit www.cityofwestlake.org.
Recycling Drop Off Locations
Residents can drop off cans, cartons, glass bottles and jars, paper and boxes, plus plastic bottles and jugs at the recycling dumpsters located at: Westlake Police Department (27300 Hilliard Boulevard), Clague Park Cabin (1500 Clague Road) and Meadowood Golf Course (29800 Center Ridge Road).
Motor oil can be dropped off yearround at the Westlake Service Center (741 Bassett Rd.), Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Bulk Items
Rumpke will pick up bulky items weekly, on your regular collection day. Please make sure items are placed out by 6 a.m. and are next to your rubbish cart (not recycling). Call Rumpke 24 hours in advance to inform them of your bulk items, 800-821-8171.
• Wrap all fabric and upholstered items such as furniture, mattresses and box springs in plastic
• Carpeting: roll and tie into 4 ft. sections, separate from padding. Not to exceed 50 lbs. per roll.
• Pipes, poles, gutters and downspouts: cut into 4 ft. sections
• Tables, basketball poles and swing sets: dismantle and cut into 4 ft. sections
• Refrigerators and freezers: empty and remove doors (City Code 521.01).
• Other wooden materials such as boxes, crates, lumber and plywood: Collapse, remove or bend down all nails, cut and use wire, twine or rope to tie unto bundles no larger than 1 ft. by 4 ft. and no heavier than 50 lbs. Place bundles parallel to the curb beside your trash container.
• Appliances with Freon will be collected by a separate truck.
Yard Waste Collection
Yard waste is collected by Rumpke with your regular rubbish collection. Yard waste (grass clippings, leaves, ornamental grasses, flowers, plants, weeds, etc.) must be placed in paper yard waste bags or plastic trash bags. Bags must not exceed 50 lbs. The bags should be placed in your 96-gallon rubbish cart or next to the rubbish cart if you do not have room inside it. Personal containers cannot be used and will not be serviced.
Please note that contractors are responsible for the removal of all yard waste they create.
Brush Collection
Brush is collected by the City of Westlake on your regular collection day. The Service Department will only pick up brush (branches, limbs, logs, etc.) under the following conditions:
• 4 foot by 2 foot bundles, maximum spread of 2 feet, maximum 50 pounds
• Larger size branches, limbs or logs, 3 inches or more in diameter, must be cut into shorter lengths, stacked in a pile and not exceeding 50 pounds
• Single branches must not exceed 4 feet in length
• Place on tree lawn by 6 a.m. on your regular scheduled collection day
• Bundles parallel to curb, ends in same direction, separated away from rubbish and recycling
• Collection may be delayed depending on volume of brush to be collected
• All thorns and/or pricker branches must be bundled
• Remove all metal, wire, nails, roots and dirt
• Do not mix any other rubbish, yard waste or other materials with the brush
• Cans may be used if they contain brush only, are clearly marked “brush” and separated away from rubbish and recycling
• Maximum can weight of 50 pounds
• Maximum can size of 32 gallons
• Bundles must be tied securely with rope, twine or nylon
• Brush bundled with metal wire, cords, or cable will not be collected
Please note that contractors are responsible for the removal of all branches and shrubs they cut.
Christmas Tree Disposal
Live Christmas Trees
Place your live Christmas tree on the tree lawn next to your rubbish. The City of Westlake brush truck will pick up. All ornaments, lights, stands and other man-made decorations, as well as plastic tree bags, must be removed from Christmas trees before collection.
For other Christmas Tree Disposal Options, view the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District’s website.
Artificial Christmas Trees
The City’s brush truck will not pick up artificial trees. These can be broken down into their parts and can be picked up with your rubbish on your regular collection day.
Leaf Collection
The City of Westlake collects leaves from residential tree lawns in the spring and the fall. Spring leaf collection runs for two (2) weeks; generally late April through early May (weather
permitting). Fall leaf collection runs from mid-October through early December (weather permitting). During these times, please check the Daily Leaf Update for more information www.cityofwestlake.org/ daily-leaf-update. If you do not want to wait for our leaf trucks to pick up in your area, you can bag your leaves for trash and Rumpke will pick them up on your regular collection day.
Collection Guidelines
Only leaves will be collected. Please do not mix branches or grass cuttings with leaves, as this will plug the machines and slow the collection process. Place the leaves on the tree lawn in a pile, at the curb. Do not place leaves in the street.
Please remember to keep the catch basins in front of your house and in the street clear to reduce flooding during heavy rains. Remove grass clippings, brush and leaves whenever possible.
Humus and Wood Chips
The City of Westlake operates a Class IV compost site that accepts all leaves collected through the Service Department’s curbside leaf collection programs in the spring and fall, as a joint venture with the City of Bay Village. Approximately 50,000 yards of leaves are collected yearly.
Leaf humus is an all-natural byproduct of leaves. No chemicals are added during the decomposition process. It is an excellent soil conditioner and shouldn’t be mistaken or used for topsoil. Various uses: in gardens, around flowerbeds, mixed with topsoil, etc. Our screening process eliminates most stones, branches, twigs and other debris.
Wood chips are created by grinding all branches, logs and tree stumps from weekly brush collection. Various uses: ground cover for flowerbeds, around trees, landscaping, etc.
Purchase of Materials
Materials must be purchased at Westlake City Hall, 27700 Hilliard Blvd., Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. They CANNOT be purchased at the Westlake Service Center.
Leaf Humus:
Per bushel - $3
Per 30-gallon container - $5
Per cubic yard - $15
Wood Chips:
Per bushel - $3
Per 30-gallon container - $5
Per cubic yard - $10
One cubic yard of material will cover approximately 160 square feet at 2 inches deep, 106 square feet at 3 inches deep or 80 square feet at 4 inches deep.
Pick Up of Materials
Materials can be picked up, with a valid receipt only, at the Westlake
Service Center, 741 Bassett Road, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. –3:30 p.m. and Saturday (seasonal), 8 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Delivery (seasonal)
Delivery is available to Westlake residents only. The cost is $25 per stop. Delivery hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 12 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
For more information, contact the Westlake Service Department, Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. at 440/835-6432.
Remodeling Permits
Building Department
440/871-3300
Rubbish & Special Collections Rumpke Waste & Recycling Services 800/828-8171
Safety Town Police Department
440/871-3311
Senior Citizen Information Westlake Community Services
440/899-3544
Sewer Bills Finance Department
440/871-3300
Sewer Blockage Service Department
440/835-6432
Sewers (General Info)
Engineering Department 440/871-3300
Sidewalks
Engineering Department 440/871-3300
Signs, Commercial Planning Department 440/871-3300
Small Claims Court
Rocky River Municipal Court 440/333-0066
Smoke Detectors Fire Department 440/871-3441
Snow Removal Service Department
440/835-6432
Social Services
Community Services
440/899-3544
Street Lighting
CEI/FirstEnergy 800/589-3101
Swimming Pools
Building Department
440/871-3300
Traffic Signals Police Department
440/871-3311
Unsanitary Conditions County Board of Health 216/201-2000
Utility Sheds
Building Department
440/871-3300
Water Main Breaks
Fire Department
440/871-3322
Zoning and Variances Planning Department
440/871-3300
Library
Westlake Porter Public Library
440/871-2600
Recreation and Parks
Westlake Recreation Center and Park
The Westlake Recreation Center is located on 86 acres and is a bustling hub of fun, fitness and entertainment that consists of the recreation complex, a 1.2-mile running/walking/rollerblading track, two baseball/softball fields, soccer fields, sledding hill, two sand volleyball courts, a gazebo, a large toddler playground with ADA-access, a picnic area, a five-acre lake stocked with fish with a floating fishing pier and plenty of open space for your enjoyment. Inside the Recreation Center, there is a large, 13,500-square-foot fitness area, two high school sized regulation basketball courts, an indoor track,
a cycling studio, two multipurpose group exercise rooms and an aquatics center that houses five pools, including a lap pool, a diving well, a children’s play pool, a lazy river and slides. The recreation center also includes two large community rooms where members can host parties and seminars, as well as a conference room, classroom, an arts & crafts room and a tot room. The recreation center is an approved Tivity facility and accepts Silver Sneakers and PRIME members as well as United Healthcare AARP and Renew Active members. The park is the site for the annual summer concerts as well as the Fall Festival and other family events. There’s something here for everyone, so feel free to stop in or call 440/808-5700 for more information.
Westlake Aquatic Center and Peterson Pool at Clague Park
Opened in 2019, the aquatic center offers 5 swimming areas including a lap pool with diving well and climbing wall, an over 600-foot lazy river with dumping features and a waterfall, a plunge pool with 2 slides, activity pool featuring a family slide and squirt and slide with dumping buckets. The facility also has a splash area with interactive features and an interactive labyrinth. You will also find several shade structures to keep cool along with an updated concession menu.
Meadowood Golf Course
Golf on one of the city’s three ninehole courses, two executive and one regulation length. A rustic log cabin clubhouse offers a snack bar, cozy fireplace and big screen TV and can be rented in the off-season for parties.
Clague Park
Located at the corner of Clague Road and Hilliard Boulevard, this 75-acre park offers seven baseball diamonds, four tennis courts, a walking trail,
a toddler play structure, horseshoe pit, two gazebos, two picnic pavilions and Clague Cabin, as well as Westlake Aquatic Center and Peterson Pool. Clague Cabin is available for rent for social functions.
Bradley Road Nature Park
Located on Bradley Road south of Hilliard Boulevard, this 46-acre park includes a sledding hill, a tot playground, pavilion, picnic tables, grills, restrooms and a nature trail.
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RESIDENTS’
Voting Information
You are qualified to vote if:
• You are a citizen of the United States.
• You are at least 18 years of age.
• You have been a resident of Cuyahoga County for 30 days prior to voting.
• You are currently registered to vote. You must register (or re-register) to vote if:
• You have not registered before.
• You are a new resident of Westlake.
• You have not voted in the last four years.
• You have made changes in your voter registration information such as a name or address change.
Register to vote at the following location:
The Cuyahoga County Board of Elections 2925 Euclid Ave. Cleveland, OH 44115 216/443-3298 boe.cuyahogacounty.us
Absentee voting
Contact the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections at 216/443-3298; boe.cuyahogacounty.us
Places of Worship
Baptist
Grace Baptist Church of Westlake 23096 Center Ridge Road 440/333-4515
Catholic/Roman Catholic St. Bernadette 2256 Clague Road 440/734-1300
St. Ladislas 2345 Bassett Road 440/835-2300
Catholic/Latin Rite St. Peregrine Chapel 22953 Detroit Road 440/333-3139
Coptic Orthodox
Sts. Peter and George Coptic Orthodox Church 25800 Hilliard Blvd. 440/250-0434
Disciples Of Christ
Westlake Christian Church 25800 Hilliard Blvd. 440/871-2400
Episcopal Advent Episcopal Church 3760 Dover Center Road 440/871-6685
Islam Islamic Center of Westlake 1255 Columbia Road 440/385-4064
Jehovah’s Witnesses Westlake Congregation 29171 Center Ridge Road 440/871-5939
Lutheran Prince of Peace Lutheran 28455 Center Ridge Road 440/871-5565
St. Paul Lutheran 27993 Detroit Road 440/835-3050
Methodist
Cross Pointe Community (Free Methodist) Church of Westlake 1800 Columbia Road 440/835-0243
Westlake United Methodist Church 27650 Center Ridge Road 440/871-3088
Mormon Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 25000 Westwood Road 440/777-0472
Nazarene Parkside Church of the Nazarene 23600 Hilliard Blvd. 440/333-3998
Non-Denominational
Ascent Church 3550 Crocker Road 440/808-0200
Seventh-Day Adventist
Cleveland Hungarian 2335 Columbia Road 440/835-2277
United Church Of Christ Church of the Redeemer 23500 Center Ridge Road 440/331-0834
Dover Congregational United Church of Christ 2239 Dover Center Road 440/871-1050
Unity
Unity Spiritual Center 23855 Detroit Road 440/835-0400
Day Care/Pre-School
Best Beginnings 25800 Hilliard Blvd. 440/835-4430
Creative Playrooms Montessori & Child Care Centers 26830 Detroit Road 440/835-5858
Fit By Five 29520 Center Ridge Road 440/835-8558
The Goddard School
30502 Center Ridge Road
440/892-2689
KinderCare Learning Center 30850 Viking Parkway 440/808-9949
Montessori Children’s School 28370 Bassett Road 440/871-8773
Parkside Preschool and Childcare Center 23600 Hilliard Blvd.
440/333-6643
Play & Learn Preschool 2239 Dover Center Road 440/835-2913
Primrose School of Westlake 25400 Center Ridge Road 440/834-2567
Shining Star Preschool 3760 Dover Center Road 440/871-2711
The Learning Experience 25211 Center Ridge Road 440/617-6279
The Nest Schools
27386 Center Ridge Road 440/271-8432
Westlake Academy 26830 Detroit Road 440/201-3874
Westshore Montessori School 26536 Detroit Road 440/899-7911
Hospitals and HospitalAffiliated Medical Centers
Cleveland Clinic Health System
Imaging Center-Westlake 850 Columbia Road, Suite 130 440/250-5757
Fairview Surgery Center
Westlake Medical Campus
A Cleveland Clinic Health System 850 Columbia Road, Suite 001 440/808-4000
University Hospitals St. John Medical Center 29000 Center Ridge Road 440/835-8000
University Hospitals Health Systems Westlake Health Center 960 Clague Road 440/250-2100
Seniors, Housing Apartment Complexes & Longterm Care
Independent Living (I) Assisted Living (A) Alzheimer’s (ALZ)
Arden Courts of Westlake (Alzheimer’s and dementia residential care facility) 28400 Center Ridge Road 440/808-9275 arden-courts.org/Westlake
The Belvedere by Heritage Retirement Communities 29591 Detroit Road 440/835-4000 belvederebyhrc.com
Brookdale Gardens of Westlake 27569 Detroit Road 440/892-9777 brookdale.com
Brookdale Westlake Village 28550 Westlake Village Drive 440/892-4200 brookdalewestlakevillage.com
Life Care Center of Westlake 26520 Center Ridge Road 440/871-3030 lcca.com
Rae Ann Suburban 29505 Detroit Road 440/871-5181 rae-anncares4u.com
Rae Ann Westlake 28303 Detroit Road 440/871-0500
rae-anncares4u.com
Vitalia Senior Residences 26695 Center Ridge Road 440/835-1719
Westlake Assisted Living (A) 27633 Bassett Road 440/835-2110, ourhouseinc.com
Older Adults, Important Information
Details regarding older adult information listed below may be obtained by contacting:
Westlake Community Services Department 28975 Hilliard Blvd. 440/899-3544
AARP 888/687-2277
Abuse
Mental Health Services and Suicide Prevention 24/7 Hotline 216/623-6888
Domestic Violence Hotline 216/391-HELP (4357)
Elder Abuse (24/7 Hotline) 216/420-6700
Cuyahoga County
Adult Protective Service 216/420-6700
Cuyahoga County Board of Health 216/201-2000
Cuyahoga County Div. of Senior and Adult Services 216/420-6750
Witness Victim Service Center 216/443-7345
Probate Court 216/443-8785
Elder Protective Services Hotline 216/420-6700
Cuyahoga County Job and Family Services 216/831-5554
Golden Buckeye Information Line & Ohio Dept. on Aging 800/422-1976
Home Energy Assistance Program 800/282-0880
Homestead Exemption 216/443-7050, Prompt 1
Cleveland Division of Water 216/664-3130
RTA – Senior & Disabled 216/566-5100
Food and Assistance
First Call for Help - United Way Dial 211
Meals on Wheels — Westlake 440/871-2551
Westlake Community Services 440/899-3544
Home Safety Checks
Westlake Fire Department
440/871-3441
Provided for residents 65 and older. Check will highlight hazards, install “Utili-Tag” identification and service smoke detectors.
“Are You Okay?”
Free Daily Reassurance Call
440/899-3544
Hospice
Hospice of the Western Reserve/ Ames Family House
440/414-7349
Legal
Legal Aid Society of Cleveland
1-888-817-3777
State Of Ohio Consumers’ Credit Counseling Services
800/282-0515
Department of Aging
800/266-4346
Department of Insurance Ohio Senior Health Insurance & Information Program
800/686-1578
Tax Assistance
Internal Revenue Service
IRS.gov
Other Services
Alzheimer’s Association
800/272-3900
Better Business Bureau (24-hour anytime line)
216/241-7678
Board of Elections
216/443-8683
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
North Olmsted 440/779-0830
Cleveland Sight Center Society for the Blind 216/791-8118
Cleveland State University
60+ Project 216/687-5411
Cuyahoga Community College 216/987-5800
Community Outreach University Hospitals St. John Medical Center 440/844-426-1992
Medicare Plans (or speak to an agent) 800/760-3550 medicare.gov
Social Security SSA.gov/ Medicare General Information 1-800/633-4227
Sports and Entertainment
Dave and Buster’s
25735 First Street 440/892-1415
Hilliard Lakes Golf Club 31665 Hilliard Blvd. 440/871-9578
WESTLAKE GARDENERS
Cahoon Nursery is a traditional garden center, and we have been serving discerning gardeners from Cleveland’s western suburbs since 1948. Our emphasis is on customer service and highquality nursery stock. We offer by far the widest selection of plant material in our area, with hundreds of varieties of trees, shrubs, perennials (including a large selection of hostas) and annuals. We also carry all the related products that contribute to successful gardening.
Lakewood Country Club 2613 Bradley Road 440/871-0400
Paramount Tennis Club 31550 Viking Parkway 440/250-9081
Sky Zone 31500 Viking Parkway 440/414-0444
Urban Air Adventure Park 183 American Blvd. 440/427-4906
Westlake Meadowood Golf Course (Public) 29800 Center Ridge Road 440/835-6442
Westlake Recreation Center 28955 Hilliard Blvd. 440/808-5700
Westshore Family YMCA 1575 Columbia Road 440/871-6885
Westwood Country Club 22625 Detroit Road 440/331-2120
City Museum & Theater
The Westlake Historical Society Clague House Museum 1371A Clague Road 216/848-0680
Wagner’s of Westlake 30855 Center Ridge Road 440/871-8800 wagnersofwestlake.com
COMING SOON
Cavoli’s Pizza Shop Chopt
Hayden Grove
// PASSING THE MIC
Life changed overnight for Westlake crooner Hayden Grove, who appeared on Season 27 of NBC’s “The Voice,” when he received a shoutout by one of his singing idols during a concert in Pittsburgh on Sept. 1, 2022.
“Hayden Grove is a guy I started following on TikTok and I recognized him in the crowd here … what’s your handle on TikTok … @h_grove … Hayden, let’s blow up your TikTok dude,” said Michael Bublé as he cheered on the crowd to follow Grove on the social media platform. “You’re a beaut; you’re a beaut!”
Thanks to 1.2 million video views and 40,000 new followers virtually overnight, Grove is now grooving with a performance lineup that includes 12 to 15 shows a month at locations around the Cleveland area, including Leo’s Italian Social in Crocker Park.
“Michael Bublé was recognizing my stuff on TikTok, and then he followed me, which was incredible and still is incredible,” says Grove, 32, who has always loved to sing and adored classic performers such as Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis and Dean Martin. “I went to the show, and he saw me in the crowd and gave me the huge shout out, which was still
one of the craziest moments of my life. He’s always looking at my stuff and he’ll send me a message every now and then just cheering me on. Growing up, he was a catalyst for my love of the music as well, because he was relevant, and he was carrying the torch so to speak and keeping the music alive.”
Grove, a multimedia sports journalist with cleveland.com, views this unforgettable night as the point where his musical aspiration went from being a hobby to becoming a full-fledged professional endeavor.
“I’ve been singing my whole life and I've loved sports my whole life. I’ve kind of been going back and forth between the two,” says the Crocker Park resident, who attended the University of Miami in Florida on a music scholarship for a year before deciding to pursue a journalism degree from his dream school, The Ohio State University.
He came to Cleveland after graduation and in 2016 joined the team at Cleveland. com covering all the local sports teams and
connecting with the loyal fan base here. “I love the games, the energy, the fans. The city of Cleveland is a sports town, and it will always be a sports town.”
Grove, who has performed with Mike Petrone, known by many as the “Cleveland’s Piano Man” who has been playing the keys at Johnny’s Downtown for decades, has three albums including one devoted to Christmas classics. He also writes songs and is working on original music.
“I want to kind of bring a new energy and a new life into this music and find different ways to bring it to a new generation,” says Grove, who also can be found at CycleBar Crocker Park, where he is an instructor teaching cycling classes and getting in his own workouts a couple times a week. “I would love to be able to play with the band every time I perform and to be able to travel. Ultimately to be able to support myself and make a decent living doing this. And we’re pretty close. We’re getting there.” — Chrissy Kadleck
“I want to kind of bring a new energy and a new life into this music and find different ways to bring it to a new generation.”
Kelly McCann
// READY TO TRAVEL
In a quest that spanned seven summer vacations, thousands of minivan miles and countless hours of trip planning, the McCann family of six made their collective way to each of the 50 states.
Inspired after an 11-state trip to the Northeast in 2016, when they visited Acadia National Park in Maine, went up to the crown of the Statue of Liberty in New York City and visited Boston and Philadelphia, the McCanns — seasoned travelers in the car — set their sights on another epic adventure to see the Mississippi River in 2017.
“We decided we would take a road trip and head west and we hit six new states with the Mississippi River trip,” says Kelly McCann, 48, chief trip planner, wife to Steve, 47, head driver, mom to Kaitlyn, 20, Caleb, 18, Kara, 16 and Carter, 14. “After those two trips, we thought it was neat that we had seen so many states, and from there we decided we would try to see all 50. We ended up doing it faster than I think I thought we would be able to.”
It took five summers for the McCanns to do the lower 48, and then they took separate summer vacations for Alaska and Hawaii, two of the most memorable because they
were able to spend two weeks or more exploring each diverse and expansive state. “Each island in Hawaii was different and each area we went to in Alaska offered new experiences,” she says. “We also really liked Montana and Glacier National Park, and Maine, which was the biggest part of our first trip, so that holds a special place.”
In order for a state to “count,” they had to do some sort of activity or visit an attraction. North Dakota proved to be one of the most challenging. “We found a small town and we went to a pizzeria and had a meal there,” she says. “We weren’t in Minnesota for long, but we did do a hike close to the Mississippi River.”
For each trip, Kelly used her collection of photos and made a Shutterfly book, and she tucked a photo from each state into a large wall hanging of the United States in the family’s living room. Treasured souvenirs are found on a magnet wall in their
kitchen and a travel Christmas tree in their family room.
“I’m really happy and proud that we were able to accomplish this goal and just have something unique to our family, and to have all the memories,” Kelly says. “Each state has a memory that is meaningful to us. And we were very fortunate enough to have the time off from work and financially able to.”
Steve is a financial planner with Hudson Financial Advisors, and Kelly works as a CPA at Parkwood LLC, and has volunteered for the past five years as treasurer of the Westlake Schools Music Boosters.
The McCanns’ passion for travel now requires passports. In 2023, they took a Royal Caribbean cruise to the Caribbean. In 2024, they took a three-week trip to Italy. This year, they plan to go back to Europe and do a Rhine River Cruise, and spend time in Amsterdam, Belgium and Switzerland. Bon Voyage! — CK
“I’m really happy and proud that we were able to accomplish this goal and just have something unique to our family, and to have all the memories.”
