Evaluation of the EPD

The Euclid City Council's approved 2014 budget for the Euclid Police Department totals $11.5 million dollars.  That comes to about 30% of all General Fund expenditures that the City Council approved for 2014.




In approving that budget, you, the public, should expect that City Council does conduct some level of scrutiny of the EPD, or, any department to make sure that you are getting the best level of service for the money available.



Within the government structure of the City, the Police and Fire Chief reports to the safety director, which in Euclid is the Mayor.  City Council should have little roll in the day to day operations of any City Department.  As a part time body, we neither have the time, or expertise to carry out day to day management functions.




This is why from time to time, the Council (and Administration) may invite in experts to advise on the management of various City Departments, or, aspects of those departments.   Private firms and state agencies have been invited over the many years to do everything from auditing of City books, to advising on the management of City Departments, to conducting energy audits.  In some cases we have turned the functions of government entirely over to private firm:  trash collection is an example, but, the operations of the Golf Course, and, Shore Cultural Center are also examples.




Why do this?  Simply, governments may not have the expertise to do all of these things to the best it can be done.


Back in 2011, the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police was brought in to evaluate the functioning of the Euclid Police Department.


The background:  In 2011, a series of incidents and issues exploded across the media and at City Council revealing deep seated legal, command and morale issues within the department.  For those of you that remember, it is quite painful:  theft from the EPD property room; county investigation of said theft; suicide of an officer; auto towing lot issues; Fraternal Order of Police vote of "no confidence" in the then Chief Jim Repicky; FOP meetings with City Council.  


All of these things shook the very confidence in the one agency that we need the highest level of trust in.


City Council was blindsided by all of this.   While some of us did hear about potential issues within the Department, in 2010 we were assured by Chief Repicky that the issues were minor, and, that they were being addressed.   Council placed our trust in the Chief, and was burned, meaning that you, the residents were also burned.


In response to all of the turmoil, In Early June of 2011 Mayor Cervenik brought in the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) to review department organization and operational procedures.   Throughout June and July of 2011, OACP conducted interviews with police officials, Council members, and, conducted anonymous surveys of police officers.  During this process, Chief Repicky retired.


In October of 2011, the OACP came back with their report:  a total of 42 recommendations that were classified as "strategic." meaning that they had a direct impact on effectiveness of the force.  While too numerous to list here, many had to do with the culture of the department.  (Please contact me if you want a list of the recommendations).  In addition, OACP provided a summary of comments made by EPD patrol officers. 


In short, the OACP laid out a blue print to rebuild the EPD into a better workplace, and, better police force.


Since 2011, City Council has been given a few updates in which the current Chief, Tom Brickman, seems evasive and, defensive on just how much progress has been made in implementing the OACP recommendations.


Given the past, some members of City Council wants an independent verification on what progress is actually being made.


To that end, on February 18th, City Council passed 5-4, Resolution 019a-14, directing the Administration to invite the OACP to return, and, give the community a progress report.


Here is, in part, how the resolution reads:




1) The OACP made several recommendations for both organizational and operational improvements
2)  City Council desires to build upon the progress made with the EPD since 2011
3)  City Council desires current EPD officers and staff have the opportunity to express their
     opinions, suggestions and concerns for the continual betterment of the department.
4) It is sound management practice to periodically check on implementation progress through an
     impartial organization
5) That a preliminary meeting be held with OACP with the Administration and Council to develop
     the proper scope of services.




The reaction of both the Mayor and Police Chief Brickman were negative.  Not simply negative but, rather defensive, and, in some instances, belligerent.  In fact, the Mayor used his executive power to veto the resolution. 




Why?  What is the harm in having an outside agency, the same one that was here in 2011 come back and report to the community the progress made at EPD?  If everything is truly well, then all the better for the community.  If there is additional work to be done, then, lets get at it.




Back in 2011, the Mayor wanted to make sure that EPD's practices were in alignment with "Best Police Practices" across the state.   Today, he does not seem to want this.  This simply raises suspicions as to what is really going on.




Chief Brickman wants the Council to simply trust the command staff of the Department that all is well, or that progress is being made  The Council did this once before, and, was burned.  We can not allow this to happen again.  Another way to look at it is City Council does not have the expertise in police organizations to know what, if any, progress has been made, what questions to ask, or even what should be best practices.




That's why Councilpersons Gorshe, Delaney, McLaughlin Scarniench, and, me, strongly believe that independent experts, the OACP should be brought back for an impartial look at the Euclid Police Department




Therefor, on Monday, March 3, the City Council will consider overriding the Mayor's veto. 

February, 2014 - The Month of Decision

February 2014, News and Notes

Below are some items that you may not be aware of, but, will have large impacts on the City in the coming days ahead:

County Jail Takeover Delay:  The deal with Cuyahoga County to take over the operation of the Euclid Municipal Jail have been delayed.  While potentially only a legal glitch, never the less, the hoped for County takeover date of April 1 will surely be missed.   Both the Euclid City Council, and, the Cuyahoga County Council must vote on this agreement.  For Euclid, the agreement would take an obsolete building that is expensive to run, costly to fix up and turn it over to the County.   The benefits for the County, and, the County taxpayer will be for the County Council to decide.

Any delay for Euclid will mean more spending on jail operations than planned, meaning a potentially even tighter squeeze on the 2014 budget.

Lake Front Development:  JJR, the City's consultant on the Euclid Lakefront Development Project will be in town this week to discuss progress on the next phase.  As you might recall, in October of 2013, the City dedicated the opening of the new, extended pier.  The Administration views the next phase of the project to be the restoration of the Central Beaches and, the construction of the Boardwalk.  This area is roughly between Sims Park and 238th.  Some believe that the next phase must include tangible planing for the lakefront marina.  As discussed in previous blogs, only the marina portion of the project leverages the tens of millions of dollars in private investment in new, upscale housing that the City needs.   And, there folks is where the decision will be: do we look at lakefront development as simply a recreational investment, or, as an investment in economic development?  As I have always said, in Euclid, lakefront development IS marina development.

Water Water Treatment System: As I wrote back on Feb. 17, 2012, there are many strategies that can help reduce the cost of the federally mandated improvements to our waster water treatment system.  The current improvements agreed to by Euclid amount to between 130 and 150 million dollars.  That's not small change, especially in Euclid, which is seeing declining population and, growing poverty.  As I wrote almost two years ago, Green Infrastructure initiatives might be a way to reduce the costs of the necessary improvements.  Unfortunately, I must report that as of today, the Administration is showing virtually no movement to explore, or, to embrace methods that are being used all over the nations to reduce storm water infiltration and, inflows.  By rejecting this approach, the rate payers in the Euclid Waster Water Treatment System could very well, be spending millions and millions of dollars that could be saved.   I will be working to find out if those savings are out there.

New Trash  and Recycling Program:  This week will see the roll out of the new trash and recycling program.  Delivery of the new trash and recycling carts begins Monday, Feb 3rd.   While the roll out has been well covered through mailings and such, what is still under development are "exceptions" to the program.  Given the large size of the carts, I've received many calls from elderly folks concerned about wrestling with the larger carts.  That's of great concern especially during the winter.    The Administration promises to address those matters as the program comes on line.  The Council will make sure that happens.  Finally, for those that take newspapers to the Abitibi locations in support of your favorite charity, you can still do this.

That's probably enough for now.  More to come shortly on other pressing matters facing the City.  And, as always, let me know what you thing,

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Euclid Kiwanis 5th Annual Sweetheart Bowl-A-Thon.  February 8th, Wickliffe Lanes, 30315 Euclid Ave, 

2:30-5:30pm

Council Considering Automated Recycling

The Kimble Proposal

 

Faced with a failing recycling program, and, a City Council reluctant to buy another recycling truck, the Administration reached out to Kimble for a possible solution.

 

Kimble came back with a proposal to extend their current contract, and, add the collection of recyclables.  Here are some of the basics

 

*Current contract set to expire in Feb, 2015 would be extended thru Dec 31, 2019.

*Recycling pick up added to the contract

*Automated pick up of both trash and recycling. 

* Each "stop" would be provided at no cost with a single 96 gallon trash cart, and, a 67 gallon

  recycling cart

*Unlimited trash pick up would remain.

* The City would no longer receive any money from recyclable material collected as we currently do.

 

The Administration estimates cost savings of about 100K per year over the life of the contract. 

 

The trade off is that the City would waive its ability to potentially secure a better deal through competitive biding until the end of the decade.

 

Is the Trade Off Worth It?

 

Lets take a look at some of the assumptions of the Administration:

 

500K Savings over the life of the Contract:   There are two parts here:  First, the City must increase its recycling from the current 1650-1700 ton level to beat the cost of the current contract.  If we do not there is virtually no savings the first year, and, a 31K savings the next year.   Second, any savings after the second year is pure speculation based on future market conditions that are hard to project.

 

Extending vs. Bidding:  At our Sept. 11 2013 Executive Committee Meeting, Mr. Johnson of Kimble indicated that the City would secure a better price over our current contract, if going out to bid today, and, that could hold true if we went out to bid a year from now.  With or without the extension, Kimble wants the City's business.  And, we should note that the City awarded the current contract to Kimble via competitive bidding.

 

Increasing Recycling Tonnage:   Our current program failed to do this.  The entire  contract extension savings depends on it.  Through the larger containers and, some education, the Administration believes that our recycling tonnage can rise from 1650 tons, to almost 3800 tons.  There is some evidence that switching container size can increase tonnage collected.  South Euclid and Independence have show increases in switching from bins or bags to large containers.  Solon is also showing an increase in their pilot program as reported in the Plain Dealer. 

 

The Current Program:  The Administration claims that the current program can not continue without another truck.  Yet, for the first three months of the program (Dec, 2010 - Feb, 2011) we did just that.  Trough roll off bins and, our own dump trucks it is possible to carry on for the short term.

 

 

The Real Issue - Preventing Waste from Entering the Landfill

 

 

Extend the contract?  Bid out?  City pick up?  Private hauler pick up?  All important questions, but, none of them answers the question of what is the City's plan to keep waste out of the landfill.  The landfill is where real savings can be had.  Yet, we have no plans, only an idea about better educating our residents.

 

Here are some select recycling rates for Cuyahoga County communities provided by the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste Management District:

 

Euclid: 24.58%   Cleveland Hts:  66.98%  South Euclid: 45.78%    Lakewood: 50.15%

Richmond Hts: 37.62%  Independence: 58.17%

 

Raising our percentage will save the City money.  And, the only way to do this is to actually develop a  City of Euclid plan that at its core develops a culture of recycling.

 

Who collects the recyclables will only change the financial results modestly, if at all. 

 

Now, who has done such planning?  Cleveland is currently in the development of a "Resource Recovery Plan."  Austin, TX and Philadelphia already have comprehensive recycling plans.  They have developed the culture that makes their programs work.  In fact, Austin have moved from just recycling to  a total "materials management" program where trash is what remains once the community reduced, reuse, recycle and compost.   Well, maybe for Euclid, a small step first! 

 

Euclid should, however, embark on landfill reduction planning exercise.  There are many resources and organizations that can help with such a task.  While this might cost  some money, the results would be a real plan for reducing landfill tonnage that will save the City money.

 

Once completed, and, adopted, then, the City will have a clear direction just how our trash and recyclables can best be collected.

 

But it all starts with building a  Culture of Recycling

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 



 

 

 

 



Euclid Recycling - About to Change?

Euclid's Current Recycling Program

 

Euclid's current recycling program is a money loser.  Started in December of 2010, Mayor Cervenik's highly touted "no cost" program could very well be dumped at the next Council meeting.

 

As I noted in my earlier blog on the subject (see October 8th, 2010 post)  the current program rested on assumptions that were far too optimistic.

 

Under our current contract, Euclid saves money by recycling in two ways:  1)Euclid receives payment for the actual amount of materials recycled.  2) Every ton recycled is a ton that the City does not pay for in landfill tipping fees (a tipping fee is the amount charged per ton at the landfill)

 

The initial costs to launch the current program were as follows:

 

1) Personnel :  3 hires costing about $112,000 per year

2) Yellow bins:  $80,000

3) New Recycling Truck  $ 92.000. 

4) Used truck - for back up  $32,000

 

The used truck was purchased two months after the launch of the program in December, 2010.

 

Problems with this program were apparent from the first presentation in the fall of 2010.

 

Long time residents recall that Euclid has engaged in several different types of recycling: curbside bins, bi-weekly, curb side blue bags, to central dumpster collections.  Each was terminated due to costs and City budget pressures.

 

The Administration convinced a majority of Council that the cost problems could solved.  If the residents recycled more materials than they had in the past, the City would save enough money. 

 

This is the real key to saving the City money:  keeping stuff out of the landfill

 

Mayor Cervenik explained that he was fully confident that recycling tonnage would rise from the historic average of 2600 per year, to close to 4000 tons per year.   To reach these goals, the Administration promised a City wide educational campaign.

 

From the Mayor's first proposal in mid-September 2010 until final Council passage on October 4th, 2010 was about three weeks.  In short, this was rammed through with plenty of questions on the rosy Administration assumptions on the amount expected to be recycled, the educational aspect, and, the use of a Federal Grant to cover first year costs.

 

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the City of Euclid used a one time, federal Energy Efficient Community Block Grant to cover about $112,000 in 2011 salary expenses.  The City obtained this grant in the amount of $296,000 in 2009.  The grant is described in Federal literature as "empowering local communities to make strategic investments to meet the nation's long term goals of energy independence and leadership on climate change"  Salaries are a one time, short term use of the money.

 

From the very first month of the program, the actual tonnage of recycling materials collected has fallen far short of the rosy scenarios bought by Council.  In fact, according Administration figures, the City is only collecting about 1700 tons of recycling per year.  Because of this shortfall in collections, the per annual losses of the program are rising, from a loss of about 60K per year to a projected 100K per year in 2013 to 125k next year.

 

One of the reasons for this is the lack of any credible education program.  Council was promised that it would have input, and, could see the program before it was unveiled.  We are still waiting.

 

The final straw that has pushed the Administration for an overhaul of the program is the continual break down of the used recycling truck.  Deemed a money saving purchase a few years ago, it has been a money pit.  Instead of putting additional money into endless repairs, the City Administration wanted the Council to purchase a new truck for $122,000.

 

Council balked at this expense leading to the current Administration proposal: extending our trash hauling contract with Kimble and, including the pick up of recycling materials.

In short, a program touted as a way to earn money trough recycling less than three years is now destine for the dump.

 

So, what comes next?  Stay tuned.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 



 



Council's Moment of Decision

This next week will see important City Council Committee meetings that will have a major impact on the City's Direction for years to come.

The topics are grouped into two categories:  Financing for the renovation of the Euclid City Jail complex, and, the extension of the Trash and Lighting Fees.

While they are separate issues, they absolutely linked together.  Here is how.

 

EUCLID CITY JAIL

The current City Jail was obsolete from the moment it opened in 1989.  Since that day, the taxpayers of Euclid have lost around 1 million dollars a year on an annual operating basis  (see April 24, 2011 post for more details). 

Finally a solution is at hand: for about 4.7 million dollars, the City can renovate the jail complex creating a facility that is far more efficient.  In other words, fewer corrections officers will be needed meaning a substantial savings for the taxpayers of Euclid.  Even though the estimated costs of the project have risen from about 3.2 million to 3.8 million in April, 2013 to now, 4.7 million, the savings are still substantial.  Administration estimates indicate that annual savings will be between 700K and 800K per year.

To finance the project the City will sell short term notes, and eventually will roll the notes into longer term debt.  Current estimates are that to service the debt will require about 200K per year.  Therefore, the jail renovations should be paid for from the operational savings in running the jail.

So, what should be done with the additional savings from a renovated jail?

TRASH AND LIGHTING FEES

 

In 2010, the Council voted to implement trash and lighting fees to prevent City layoffs.   Since then, changes to the State budget have further put a strain on City finances first felt during the recession.

 

Now, those fees are up for an extension vote again.   The Administration is proposing to continue both fees.  The trash fee would remain at $9.00 dollars per month ($7.00 for seniors and the disabled).  The lighting fee millage is proposed to go up from 1.34 mills to 1.55 mills.  The increase in millage is to compensate for the fall in property valuations

 

 

COUNCIL'S CONSIDERATION

 

1)  Tax relief for the residents: cut the trash and lighting fees

 

2)  Hire more police, fire, or, other City personnel to enhance services

 

3)  Council could approve more money for road paving, equipment purchases, park and
     recreational improvements, etc.
 

4)  Finally, Council could allocate the savings to a major redevelopment project such as the Lakefront
     Marina Project

 

Assuming that the City sees the full savings from the jail project, making the right investments will set the course of the City for the next several decades.

 

THE PRIME CHALLENGE FACING EUCLID

 

As reported by Moody's in March 2013, "The City's demographics have weakened in recent decades.  The City's population has fallen from 71,522 in 1970 to 48,920 in 2010.  Data from the American Community Survey  ( 2006-2010) showed the City's per capita income and median family income to be at 80.5 %  and 82.4% of US levels, respectively.  These statistics reflect a decline from Census  2000 data which showed per capita income and median family income to be at 91.1% and 90.5% of the US respectively"

 

In other words, the City is shrinking and, getting poorer, meaning it is harder and harder to provide services everyone deserves and expects.

 

WHAT DO I RECOMMEND FOR THE JAIL SAVINGS?

 

 

1) Service the debt on the jail renovations (of course).

 

2) Keep the trash fee at current levels.  Keep the lighting fee at the current 1.34 mills.  While hardly

    a windfall for Euclid Property owners, it does acknowledge the City's improving industrial

    economy.

 

3) The rest of the jail savings I believe should be invested into the Lakefront Marina  project. Additional design and engineering work must be completed before actual construction of the breakwaters can begin.   But, more importantly, it has been shown time and again that such a lakefront amenity  can leverage 10's of millions of dollars in private investment.   Such investment would be in new and, renovated housing, restaurants and, will spur retail investment in our downtown.  The size of the private investment will generate significant new tax revenues.  This will allow for improved City serves throughout the community.

 

Of course, what I am proposing can be tweaked and modified.  But, lets not just settle for the status quo, as, Euclid can not afford that anymore.  Let the debates begin!

 

 

Executive and Finance Committee Meeting, Wednesday, June 12, 6:30PM., Euclid City Hall

 





 



 Euclid Pond and Garden Tour,
Saturday and Sunday, June 29 & 30th

 

For more information, call 216-289-8598 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Will Hens Be Our Friends?

On Monday, April 15th, the Euclid City Council will consider Resolution 269-13, the Hen Pilot program.  Sponsored by Councilmen Langman, O'Hare and McLauglin, the pilot is designed to determine if allowing folks to raise hens in their backyards can work in Euclid.

More and more urban and suburban residents are taking an interest in how their food is grown and raised, wanting more locally grown, and fresh foods.  The practice and hobby of raising hens has also taken hold across the county.  Cities such as Boston, Atlanta, Los Angels, New York, Orlando and Chicago allow the practice in some form.  Right here in North East Ohio, communities such as Cleveland and Cleveland Hts.  have allowed their residents to participate in this growing trend   For many urban and suburban residents fresh eggs are the very symbol of independence from the "industrial food complex" believing freshly laid eggs to be tastier and better for you.

The trend has reached Euclid, as over the past few years, as members of the community have asked if raising hens it allowable.  Currently the practice is not, although it was allowed up until 1981.

As with any idea, Council is charged with weighing the pros and cons.  The challenge here for Council is this:  Can the property owner enjoy raising hens WITHOUT causing harm to their neighbors?

If I have learned anything in all my years on Council is that issues always have something to teach.

Not knowing much about raising hens and, any potential issues, the resolution sponsors reached out to Cleveland's Blue Pike Farm, a thriving urban farm on E 72nd Street; the Cuyahoga  County - OSU Agricultural Extension Service that provided practical experience and expertise on backyard hens;   Residents of Cleveland Hts who opened their yards for a Council tour of backyard hens in the Heights.   And, the insights of Council members of Cleveland Hts.

And, of course, Council also had committee meetings to discuss the program, and, to hear concerns of the Euclid residents.

The Pilot Program Resolution is the result of all of all of this work.

Here are the program highlights:

1)  One Year Program:  Success or failure, the program ends after one year.  Success is defined as
 no complaints, and, no regulatory burden on the Administration.

2)  Limited Participation.  Only up to 5 owner occupied home are allowed during the pilot.  This allows for easier program monitoring.

3)  4 Hen Limit:  No turkeys, geese, ducks, roosters: to noisy.  No slaughtering allowed.

4)  Application Required:   Interested home owners must fill out the application form and pay their $25.00 application fee.   Application must include a basic site plan for the coop, or shed, and the enclosed outside "run."  A garage or deck is not an acceptable option for housing hens.  Basic rules include a 5ft set back from the property lines, and, a 6ft ht on any new coop.   The "run"
can not be an existing perimeter fence, but rather, an inner fence that allows the hens secure access to the yard.  The Building Commissioner will review the plans.

5 ) Neighbor Permission Required:  Applicants must obtain permission from each adjacent neighbor, and, the neighbor immediately behind them.  This is, perhaps the most important part of the program:  it gives neighbors veto power:  no permission, no hens.  In our research, farm animal ordinances in other communities can cause problems because neighbors are caught off guard, by the appearance
of the birds.

Ultimately, if a hen program works in Cleveland, or Cleveland Hts, or wherever, it does not mean that it will work in Euclid.  This is why we believe that the Pilot Program is the best way to go.  It will give us the real world experience right here in Euclid to provide us the answers most us are looking for.

 

Euclid City Council - March 4th Agenda

Here are some comments on the March 4th, City Council Agenda.

Office of Neighborhood Engagement



 

Council wants to create and manage a pilot program called The Office of Neighborhood Engagement.  The principal goal of the new position is clear and simple:  to offer proactive support to existing and new neighborhood and business associations.

The Need:  From experience,  it is often true that folks turn to their Councilperson as a last resort to resolve issues.  Many times, these neighborhood concerns have existed for quite a while.  The resident may have contacted the City about this or that issue with little, or an unsatisfactory response.  So when they approach the Council, many times they are very frustrated and upset.   All members of Council gladly weigh in to help resolve issues every day.  The frustration is that this is a reactive way to address problems, and, concerns, especially since many of the same issues occur throughout the City:  neighbor issues, overnight parking, loud music, housing issues toname a few.

The Solution:  Be proactive!  Starting with our current neighborhood groups, provide information on City Services, issues, and solutions, and, thus, better meet the needs of all of our residents.   Currently, the City has no one position that is charged with working directly, and, reaching directly into our neighborhoods and small business districts.  The Office of Neighborhood Engagement would do just that: reaching out to residents, neighborhood groups and smaller retail areas.  Just as important, this position would reach out across Administration Departments, to offer up solutions for neighborhood concerns.

Can it work?  I believe so.  Other communities such as Cleveland Hts. have a similar program.  There, they have community outreach programs based in each neighborhood.  They work hand in hand with their council members.  As I have said over the course of the many years, you, the resident are our "eyes and ears."  The more feedback we get from you, the better job your government will do.  This new position can get the Council more, and, better information from which we can make better decisions.

Euclid's current program:  Yes, there is a Community Policing Program based within the Euclid Police Department. As reported in the 2011 Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP), the current specialist is involved primarily with police based issues, such as juvenile diversion, Police Athletic League, domestic violence diversion programs, etc.  While the formation of new neighborhood groups is part of the current position, once formed the Specialist has no real contact with the groups, unless there are specific issues.  This limits the ability of the current position to consistently reach out into our neighborhoods   And, as the report recommended, perhaps the solution for the Police Department is training multiple officers, if not the whole Department, on community policing methods.

What is Council's Roll?  We will supervise the position during the pilot phase.  This is to make sure that the pilot process goes as we envision it.  Yes, that means that the Administration is not entirely on board with the concept.   As for the effect on Council, this should have no effect on what I have done for all these years:  answer your questions, and, address your concerns.  In fact, the new position can offer support on Council based initiatives, such as community gardens, enhanced recycling, and, enhanced block watch efforts,vacant property issues, and, more.

Conclusion:  The proposed Office of Neighborhood Engagement will offer information, and support Council on issues that are grounded in the everyday community issues.   The Office of Neighborhood engagement should make the whole council better, and, that is to your benefit.

Council will discuss this new position in committee before approval.

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  Dog Park Tales - the Final Chapter?

 

After 20 years time, Euclid is finally on the door step of building a Dog Park.  As you might recall from an earlier post (Dog Park Tales - 5/15/2011), attempting to build a dog park somewhere in Euclid has been a 20 year journey.  The latest, and, hopefully, last chapter will see construction begin on the Dog Park later this spring.  The location is on St. Clair, just west of the RTA Park-N-Ride lot.

From 4 years ago, the Dog Park Committee looked at this site as a potential location, but, since the RTA owns the property, and, there are drainage issues there, it was not the first choice of the committee.  However, thanks to Councilman Van Ho and, the Administration, the RTA and the City were able to hammer out an agreement for the lease of this property.  The City has pledged to spend up to 20K for construction of the park, including drainage, and, fencing.  The term of the lease is for 5 years, with an annual rent of $3,125.00 per year. 

 

While long overdue, I am happy to see this park come to the City.  And, I know somewhere, former Councilpersons Gudenas, Miller, McTighe and Gruber are pleased, too!

 

Let me know what you think, and, please complete the poll on the potential for a downtown McDonalds.

 

 



 



It's Time....The Case for Lakefront Development

THE FOLLOWING IS THE FIRST OF A SERIES OF POSTS ON EUCLID'S LAKEFRONT
DEVELOPMENT PLAN.  PLEASE LOOK OUT FOR FUTURE POSTS ON THIS TOPIC.  FIRST, A LOOK BACK


I CAME ACROSS A "POSITION" PAPER ON LAKEFRONT DEVELOPMENT, FROM THE YEAR 2000.  EXCERPTS ARE BELOW.  

At the dawn of a new century, Euclid faces significant challenges.  City vision and leadership is essential for seeing these challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities for renewal.  A significant portion of that renewal rests upon these twin pillars:  Conversion of the Americana Apartments into condominiums and the construction of a marina.

Euclid's Challenges

 

According to Euclid's Master Plan Update of 1996, only 142 homes are valued over 150K.  Market studies show that potential demand for upscale housing at a minimum of 700 homes.  The exodus of wealthier residents rests primarily on this critical shortage of high value housing.  Today, only 55% of Euclid dwellings are owner occupied.  The City Master Plan update of 1996 describes high density apartment complexes as "have{ing} little remaining long term viability."  In other words, they are obsolete.  It is no surprise that reducing rental units is a clear goal of the Update.

 

Marina Project Interest

 

A Marina constructed at the Americana will spur the conversation of the Americana.  Marina interest stretches back to 1966.  Then spokesman for the Ohio Natural Resources Department explained that "{George} Voinovich has been one of the leading proponents of a marina for the City."  Mayor Kenneth Sims and Ohio Natural Resource Director Fred Moor and Ohio Division of Watercraft Chief Paul Sarossy "are impressed with Euclid's sincerity to have this recreational facility due to the interest exhibited in the project by Mayor Sims and Recreation Director Red Orr."

 

Regarding the Americana the minority owner, the Simon family is on record favoring the conversion of the American into condominiums as being good for Euclid.  Even more critically, there is a market for conversion according to the 1998 Danter Company report.

 

The Wealth Effect

 

The Americana/marina project significantly increases both City and School revenues without tax rate increases.  Conversation of the Americana means higher valued residential units, meaning that folks with a higher income would purchase them.  This leads to higher taxes, and, more disposable income

that can then be spent in downtown Euclid.

 

The  Keystone: Marina Development

 

Back in 1966, Mayor Sims and ONRD Director Morr discussed Mr Voinovich's marina concept.  Mr. Morr dismissed it: without a breakwater, no marina was possible.   At that time, no local money was available to pay for breakwater construction.

 

But, today, money is available through Tax Increment Financing (TIF).  Under TIF, private investment in the Americana Creates the additional property tax revenues for the breakwater/marina.

 

Making It Happen: Steps for City Leaders

 

Americana conversion and marina development provides the (partial) answer for Euclid's challenges.  No other plan proposed is as comprehensive in scope and dramatic in impact.  Yet, the first step for City leaders is one of attitude.  It seems our public leadership sees every Americana/marina challenge as an insurmountable obstacle.  No developer will ever step forward; no developer will take a risk in

Euclid's future with City Hall believing in that future.  It is time for City leadership to step out of the shadow of doubt and negativity and into the sunlight of conviction and possibility.  By doing so, they will ensure a renaissance on the lake shore, and, secure the promise of Euclid's future

 

 

********************************************************************************

 

Today, the Americana is known as Harborcrest, and, the Horizon House is now Waters Edge.  Both are owned by the K&D Group which still has interest in our lakefront project.   The challenges Euclid faced when I wrote this paper still exist today.  And, the benefits of real lakefront development holds the same potential for Euclid today, as it did back in 2000.   More in coming posts.

 





 



 





Words from Dr. King

Non Violence and Non Existence

 

In our hyper partisan world, politics, race, ethnicity and religion far to often are used to divide us.

Such labels are used to smear, attack and, even negate the other person, the other idea, the very nature of those we do not agree with.

 

Dr. King eloquently spoke to universal truths that are applicable now, as when first spoken

50 years ago.  They are really timeless truths that stretch back to the dawn of time.



 

The following quotes were in a wonderful article in the News-Herald,
Saturday, January 19, 2013.

 

Bernice King, Dr. King's daughter recalls her fathering telling her, "The choice is no longer between violence and nonviolence, but, nonviolence and nonexistence."

 

And, from a 1960 audio interview, Dr. King had this to say about non-violence:  "I would...say that it is a method which seeks to secure a moral end through  moral means, and it grows out of the whole concept of love, because if one is truly nonviolent that person has a loving spirit, he refuses to inflict  injury upon the opponent because he loves the opponent."

 

Words to, think about.  It is up to each and, every generation to breathe life into these ancient truths, just like Dr. King did all those years ago.

 

Be well.

 

Daryl

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



2013 Updates

Happy New Year!

 

Here is a brief update on some issues from 2012, and a look ahead to things I hope to work on for 2013. 

 

Green infrastructure:   As you might recall from the Feb, 17, 2012 post, the City of Euclid is under an EPA Consent Decree to improve our Waste Water Treatment System.  I believe that green infrastructure can help reduce the total costs of the improvements.  These costs are estimated at about 150 million dollars. Last year City Council passed a series of rate increases to fund the improvements.  Strand and Associates have begun the system evaluation for possible green infrastructure applications that can possibly save the rate payers millions of dollars.

 

Tax Review Committee:  From that 3/26/2011 post, I believe that a thorough review of our tax structure is badly needed.  I am happy to say that the Resolution sponsored by myself, Council President Gail and the Mayor, to establish a review committee should be implemented this coming spring.

Old Highland Neighborhood Connector:  I love hiking in the Euclid Creek Reservation.  As mentioned in "Euclid Watershed Update, Spring 2012, one day, I hiked up Old Highland Road and,thought "fixed up and made safer, this would make a great park connector for the folks in the Georgetown Neigbhorhood.  Working with Ward 1 Councilperson Caviness, our goal is to secure Metro Park/State funding for this project

Shore/City LED Lighting Initiative:  Last spring, I set up a tour for Administration members of Nela Park, the home of GE Lighting.  I wanted the Administration to see the improvements in LED technology and, how that can be applied to City building and lighting.   This past December, the GE Team came out for a tour of Shore.  The result is a proposal for LED lighting upgrades to the exterior and auditorium lights.   Payback for the investment in the Shore LED lighting proposal is about 2-4 years.   I had the pleasure of discussing the GE proposal to the Shore Board, and, they are excited about the opportunity.   This certainly can be a part of Shore's capital plan.   I am working with Service Director Bock to evaluate other City buildings.

Marina Project/I-90 Project:  The marina is critical to Euclid's Future.  Breakwalls are expensive to build.  Reducing the costs of the breakwall can save significant money.  Breakwalls are basically stone pyramids designed to block wave action.  Waves are bad for boats docked in marinas.   In my discussions with marine engineers over many years, they suggested that concrete rubble from road reconstruction projects could be used for our breakwall.  Back in 2008, Council passed a resolution asking ODOT to support the donation of concrete rubble to help build the breakwater.  The City missed out on the demolition of the old Chase Brass plant, and, the old Cleveland Convention Center

Ward 5 Councilman Pat McLaughlin is attempting to secure the concrete bridge deck of the 50 year old I-90 innerbelt bridge.  This is a wonderful and complicated initiative that if successful will bring the marina one step closer.  I wholeheartedly support Pat's initiative with advise, support and advocacy with our County and Port Authority officials.

Euclid Hens:  My guess is that this will draw the most comment! Urban agriculture is a growing trend throughout the country.  This also includes the raising of livestock and chickens.  I have discussed this concept with the City Law Department for the past several years now.  Communities like Beachwood, Cleveland, Cleveland Hts, Richmond Hts. allows the practice.  Councilman O'Hare and McLaughlin also are interested in this trend.  We had legislation drafted to allow the practice.  The main points of the legislation was to set the number of hens by home lot size, control the size of the coops, and, address concerns about noise and smell.



But, after a committee meeting, clearly the idea of allowing the raising of hens (no roosters) in the City is a passionate one.  I suggested that instead of simply passing the proposed legislation, the the City first embark on a pilot project:  allow 4-5 residents to raise hens based on the proposed law to see exactly what the impact might be.   This is under review as we speak.

Urban Forestry:  Over the years, I have had the honer of working on the Euclid Shade Tree Commsion.  It has been a personal goal to make Euclid a greener City.  Many years ago now, with the help of former State Representative Kenny Yuko, we ended mowing in the I90/Euclid Spur area.
Eventualy, an urban forest will replace what was simply mowed grass.  I also convinced the City Administration to end mowing along the Marginal, from 260th to Babbit.  This spring, I will be planting a mixture of maple, beach and oak trees in this area to speed along the reforestation.  If they "take" I will continue the initiative in the Spur area.

Of course there are always neighborhood issues that are just as important that require attention.  So, let me know what you are seeing in your neighborhood!

 

And, let me know what you think.

 

 





Another Rubber Stamp Council?

On August 8, the Euclid City Council voted 4-3 to purchase the old Alexander's property in downtown Euclid for $900,000.   This land is needed for Federal mandated improvements to Euclid's sewer system.

Yet, on Monday, August 27, the Council will debate this matter further.  Confused?  Let me explain.

Councilpersons Jones, Scarniench and myself voted against purchasing the land.  While the land is important to the project and needs purchasing,  the Cervenik Administration botched the entire presentation to Council.

When the City purchases property, an appraisal of the property is required.  Normally, that appraisal and, other supporting documentation is presented to City Council for review BEFORE  Council votes on the purchase.

Here examples of how the process should, and, has worked in the recent past

December, 2009 E 248th Street Sewer Project:  A lakefront parcel next to the Normandy was needed for a storm water outfall pipe.  Owned by the K&D Group, the final purchase price was $400K.   Council received both the appraisal and supporting explanations from the Administration well in advance of the meeting, allowing time for ample questions.   This purchase most closely resembles
the Alexander's purchase

June, 2010, St. Roberts Parish Purchase:   Bought for 674K, the City is "landbanking" the property to capitalize on future marina development.  The vote in June was the culmination of two months of CONFIDENTIAL e-mail exchanges between the Administration and City Council.

November,  2010 Lakefront parcel purchase.   The two other lakefront parcels were purchased from the K&D Group for 470K.  This brings the City in control of property between the Normandy and
HarborCrest.  At the same time, K&D donated to the City of Euclid a strip of shore line property that is important for future lakefront development. 

In each case, the Administration provided the Council with appraisal information, include copies of the actual appraisal, and detailed explanations explaining the appraisal, the need for the land, and reasoning behind the price.  With this information, Council can ask questions, and raise concerns
BEFORE voting on the legislation.
 

The Broken Process

 



For the Alexander property purchase, the City Council received zero supporting documentation from the Administration.  No appraisal, no explanation, just the legislation.    Now mind you, we have the same Mayor and Law Director, the same team that did it correctly a few years ago.  They know full well that Council would have questions on the appraisal and the price.

When you are going to spend 900K of the public's money, more information should be provided, not less.  When asked why the appraisal was not provided to Council prior to the meeting, Law Director Frey blustered that "no one on Council asked for it."  This is a very poor excuse for  the unwillingness of the Cervenik Administration to provide basic information, information that was  given in the past. 

Instead, Law Director Frey read certain portions from the appraisal to Council.  Being read too on the floor of City Council prevents any real questioning, and, insight or penetrating. thought: this only leads to poor decision making.

Yet, instead of owning up to the mistake, Mayor Cervenik complained about the Council not communicating with the Administration.  Well, its not like the appraisal information just became available in August.   The appraisals were completed in January. In reviewing communication from the Administration I can find nothing updating the Council on the appraisal process, or, the negotiations to obtain the property.  This was far different, than, say, what occurred when we were looking at the St. Roberts purchase.

The City Council has no obligation to bail out the Administration's poor preparation.   But, perhaps they figured they had the votes and did not have to prepare.   The majority of Caviness, Gail, O'Hare, and Mclaughlin provided the approval based on their trust of the Administration. 

Trusting the Administration  is nice.  Verification of that trust is better for the public!

Notice that I have not mentioned if the price of 900K is a fair one.

Without any supporting documentation, the Council should not even have begun to consider if the purchase price was right, wrong, low, or high.  Given how poorly this process was, my "no" was easy to cast.

So, why the meeting on Monday?  Two days after the vote, Mr. Frey did provide the appraisal of the Alexander property.   That led to many of my colleagues having all sorts of questions.   Imagine that!
I felt that it is important, the the public at least hear the reasoning behind the purchase price:  all of which should have been discussed before any vote was ever taken.

While it is unlikely, there is still time to make your voice heard.  The purchase legislation does not go into effect until 30 days after its August 8th passage.

The meeting is Monday, 8/27, Euclid City Hall, at 7:00pm

Our Euclid Public Schools

Dr. Joffrey Jones has now officially retired as Superintendent of the Euclid Public Schools.  We thank him for his service.  A warm welcome to Keith M. Bell who began his duties as Superintendent August 1st.  He steps into a challenging environment. 

9-mill Levy on the November Ballot.   This tops the list of issues that Superintendent Bell is facing.

Cuts in the Schools budget are planned no matter what happens in November.  The question is the depth of the cuts.  If passed, the 9 mill levy would last ten years and generate 5.4 million dollars annually.   For the owner of a 100K home, the cost would be $275.00 per year.

Perhaps a different way to look at this levy request is to ask your self:  What are we "buying" for our levy money?  In other words, what kind of education philosophy, administration, teachers, are we getting for our money?  What are the results of our dollars spent?

I came across a couple of articles that maps out a way that our money SHOULD be spent to get better results

What is listed below comes from articles published throughout the country by Karin Chenoweth and Kathleen Porter-Magee.  Each takes a little different approach, but the core values are the same.

1)  Set High Standards:  Believe that no matter where children live, they can learn.

2)  Accountability:  Make school Administrators and teachers truly accountable for results in the

     classroom.  This is meaningless without the following:

3) Teacher Autonomy:  If we are to hold schools accountable then, they must have the true ability

    to create the lessons and use the tools to teach the children based the educational needs of the child.

4) Focus on what children need to know:  This means focus on the basics so that children are ready for

    college or vocational training.

5) Create Teaching Teams:  A child's education should not vary from year to year based on the

    quality of the teacher.  Teacher collaboration delivers a better product for children.

6) Asses Frequently:  To see who is learning, who needs extra help, and, to find patterns to improve

    the education product.

7) Build Relationships:  Children must trust the teachers enough to learn.  Therefor, good schools

    build that trust among the Administration and staff, among the staff, and, between the teachers and

    the children.

MS. Chenoweth illustrates the power of the factors above be describing George Hall Elementary School in Mobile, Alabama.  All the children there qualify for the federal student lunch program.   At one time it was one of the worst schools in Mobile.   After adopting the principals above, it is now one of the best schools in the state.

Adopting such changes are not easy, or quick.  I'm hoping Dr. Bell can bring to the Euclid Schools some of the principals above.   The principals above and the results they can produce are worth the investing in.  The very future of our children and City depends on it.

Resources

Karin Chenoweth:  "Tts Being Done: Academic Success in Unexpected Places"  "How Its Being Done: Urgent Lessons From Unexpected Schools"

The Education Trust.

Kathleen Porter-McGee -   Thomas R Fordham Institute 

A New Tool for Niegbhors

Ever yearn for the days when neighbors got to know each other over the backyard fence?  In today's world of odd job schedules, taking the kids to various activities, and, the growth of cyberspace, its hard to get to know your neighbors.

But, there is a 21st Century solution to all this:  Nextdoor.com

You might have seen the June 6th Plain Dealer article about this very site.  

In short, the site is designed as a safe, secure web site for local homeowner groups, or, residents
that are living in a specific geographic areas, such as in an apartment complex.

Members can share information specific to their neighborhood:  from social news, to sharing a favorite recipe, to safety information, to cyberspace garage sales, and, however else you want to use the site for the betterment of your specific area.

From a casual check, it appears to be a wonderful tool to keep connect.  In today's world, it seems at times that we are better connected with folks miles, states, and continents away.  Nextdoor.com offers the chance to reconnect with the folks next door.

Check it out and let me know what you think.

****************************************************************************

2012 Pond and Garden Tour.  Come see some of the best yards in Euclid!  Two chances to tour:  Saturday, June 23
6-10 pm and, Sunday, June 24  1:00pm -6:00pm

For Tickets, call 289-2800, Cost, $5.00, or $20.00 for a tour via Lolly the Trolly (Sunday only).

Blackboard Connect Launch

Euclid Launches Blackboard Connect to Enhance Emergency Preparedness and Communication

City residents can register their contact information and preferences to receive urgent notifications and important updates
The City of Euclid has launched Blackboard Connect, a mass notification system that enhances communication and emergency preparedness. The first community-wide test call will be held on May 8, 2012.

Euclid implemented Blackboard Connect to stay connected to residents and efficiently provide them with direction in the event of severe weather or other urgent situations. Using Blackboard Connect, officials can record and send personalized voice messages to home phones, businesses, local agencies and mobile phones in just minutes. The service also can send email, text messages (SMS) to mobile phones and posts on Facebook, RSS feeds and Twitter channels. Messages can also be sent to TTY/TDD devices for people who are hearing impaired.

“We want to make sure residents receive the information that matters most to them, whether it is an urgent safety notification or an update on a recreation program,” said Bill Cervenik, Mayor of Euclid. “With Blackboard Connect, we have the ability to send important, tailored notifications to residents quickly and efficiently.”

Publicly available primary residential and business phones in Euclid will automatically be included in the system. However, to make sure the city has the most up-to-date contact information, residents should visit the city’s website (www.cityofeuclid.com) and click on the link that says “SIGN UP NOW – SERVICES BY BLACKBOARD CONNECT,” to provide their complete contact information. Users should also manage their message preferences by indicating their preferred mode of contact and outreach message topics. Those without Internet access, or who need assistance, are encouraged to call the Mayor’s office at (216) 289-2751. Residents with call blocking services should add (216) 289-2772 to their approved number list to ensure they receive important notifications from the city.

 

Sewer Rate Increases Pass

Euclid City Council did pass higher sewer and water rates for Euclid customers. Satellite communities will also see increases to help pay for mandated improvements to out sewer system. (see prior posts). On the rate increase for the Waste Water Treatment Plant, that increase passed 5-4.

Everyone on Council and in the Administration understands the need to comply with the Consent Decree that Council approved last year. No one suggests that Euclid should fight the Federal Government. We all know that some additional money was needed now to keep the system from insolvency. And, we reached this point because of inaction from the Administration.

For example:

1) It was recommended that rates to run the plant be raised all the way back in Oct 2010. The Administration wasted all of 2011 doing nothing while the system slipped into insolvency.

2) The Administration knew for years that the Capital Fund (Peterson) Account was running short of money. Again, no action was taken in 2011. That meant critical projects could not be done, raising their ultimate cost.

This inaction backed Council into a corner: either pass some rate increase, or not be able to pay workers and pay back debt.

3) Since January, the Administration has presented different plans to comply with the EPA, and, different cost numbers. The estimates of the compliance plan has gone up 45 million dollars since January alone.

4) The City initially presented to Council 2010 cost estimates instead of the most current figures. In the meetings since, City Council has continue to receive incorrect, or out of date numbers.

5) When Council finally heard a formal presentation on the Membrane Technology on March 12, the representative from CT Consultant (the City Engineering firm) could not answer many questions, and, crafted his presentation in part, from the Wiekipidia entry on the technology.

6) We still don't know if the technology is truly ready for implementation in Euclid as the Council was just told last week that the technology was only now evaluated for readiness to use in a system like Euclid's

7) The Administration will now look at green infrastructure technology. While this is welcomed
this should have been done years ago as part of the overall planing process. There are potentially millions of dollars in savings in such programs.

8) EPA has not approved of any of the plant improvements

This chaotic, piecemeal, helter skelter approach in trying to convince Council to pass the largest rate increase in City history (with more increases to come) was simply inferior. They presented only half a program, a gray infrastructure program. You, as rate payers should truly question how system improvements are planned and, how your money is spent.

Four of us on City Council (Scarniench, Jones, Gilliham, Langman) proposed a compromise: raise the rates enough to keep the plant running, and, do needed (and approved) SSO projects. Delay the rest of the increases until you have; 1) EPA approval; 2) a better plan in place; 3)time to have more meeting with you, the rate payers.

That compromise was rejected. Instead, the Council majority simply rubber stamped the increase. Now that the Administration has the funding in place, Council lost its last chance to effectively monitor and improve the plan. The majority is counting on frequent meetings going forward to monitor progress. I am skeptical of this, as City Council did little in 2011 and has not really done this type of oversight for many years.

The Absurdity of the Majority

In the attempt to justify the rate increase, the Administration and some on Council claim that the increase is not a big deal because natural gas prices have dropped. In other words, it is less painful to you because you are saving money elsewhere. Of course, that argument is absurd. Just drive by any gas station. And with the rise in fuel prices, the cost of food is also rising. But more importantly, we in public service should NEVER presume to know what you can afford, or how you should be spending your money. We must always remember who we work for, and, have some understanding for how tough it is for many of you.

Some Good News

Also, Monday night, a resolution in support of Green infrastructure was unanimously passed by City Council. The Administration will develop a Request for Proposal to ask experienced firms to work with our current consultants to develop a comprehensive green infrastructure program.

While this should have been done years ago, and, the City is far behind, we can catch up. It will require some deliberate, focused action to get this firm on board quickly.

In the meantime you can do your part: If you are a home owner, you can keep water out of the storm system by disconnecting your downspout. For further details, call the City of Euclid Engineering Department at 289-8100 Ask about the downspout disconnect program. Since the City is going green, I'm sure someone at City Hall would be willing to help you.

In the meantime, don't forget to answer the poll questions.

Money Down the Drain - Sewer Rate Update

Since January 18, 2012, the City Administration has presented 4 public meetings on the need for higher sewer rates. To date, this is what we know:

The Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is demanding that the City of Euclid fix the 17 Combined Sewer Overflows (CSO's) and the 16 Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSO's). In the simplest terms, any "overflow" means waste, or contaminated, or dirty water that goes directly to Lake Erie. This is a violation of federal law, and, must be fixed.

1) At the end of 2008, Euclid City Council raised the Capital Sewer Rate (the Peterson Fund) to pay for all 17 CSO projects.

2) To date, none of these projects are done. This is because the drop in water consumption
offset the rise in the rate

The January 18, 2012 Euclid City Council Service Committee Meeting

At this meeting we also learned the following:

1) 2010 Estimates for fixing the CSO's and SSO's was 17.6 million dollars, with Waste Water Treatment fixes costing an additional 36 million dollars.

2) Total costs to comply with the Consent Decree was estimated at between 60-95 million dollars. CT Consultants, the City's engineering firm presented this higher range due in part to
the uncertainty in what the EPA will demand.

3) The increase in rates would pay for all of the system improvements

4) The improvements included building 6 large tanks behind the Waste Water Treatment Plant.
This would have required taking homes adjacent to the plant, and would have jeopardized the
Lakefront Community Center.

The Three Public Rate Meetings: Feb 24 - March 1st

1) The plan to take homes and build 6 tanks behind the plant was scraped: a better, newer
technology will allow the treatment of all storm water on the current plant space. It is better because it filters water to a higher standard than the EPA currently requires.

2) This "membrane technology" costs much more though: The first range of cost of improvements jumped up to between 105-135 million dollars. A 45 million dollar jump.

3) By the second rate meeting, the range of costs disappeared, landing at the 136 million dollar amount.

4) The proposed rate increase of approx 70 million dollars is not enough to pay for all the plant improvements. This is only PHASE ONE of the rate increases

What We Don't Know.

1) What the EPA will approve: more than likely, from all the conversations the City may never know exactly what the EPA wants. The City is fairly confident that the EPA will like the membrane technology because it does filter the water better.

2) The City knew about the better technology for at least three years now. Why they unveiled a plan that caused so much resistance and upset for the residents living next to the plant makes little sense.

3) The CSO and SSO fixes have risen in projected cost to about 22 million dollars. According to the Administration, they were using 2010 estimates. Why would they think that City Council was interested in obsolete data?

4) Does the membrane technology account for the rest of the 45 million range of cost increases?

5) What the next phase of rate increases will look like. This is slated for discussion at the end of this year.

As you can see, many questions remain. Monday, March 12th, 6:30 at City Hall, the Council will again meet on the proposed rate increase.

The Way Ahead

No matter what comes out of the meeting on Monday the approach to the problem should be this:

Incorporate Green Infrastructure approaches into the entire plan, both SO/SSO remediation and plant improvements. Keeping water out of the system can reduce overflows during storms, and, brings less water to the plant.

In other words, the current plan is incomplete and requires more work.
Rates should not go up until a more complete plan is developed. No rate increase now is probably not realistic given the many factors.

So, a rate structure should be adopted based on splitting the improvements into two: The CSO/SSO problem and, then, plant improvements.

1) The City must address the CSO's and SSO's. This has held true now for several years no matter what the plant improvements look like. (A green infrastructure program can help with this problem, but, without a thorough study, we don't know by how much)

2) Rates will go up to pay for these improvements. We can consider this "phase one" of the Administration's rate increase: to pay for plant operations, and the CSO/SSO program and, additional planning for future improvements.

Plant Improvements:

We have seen that in less than 1 month, improvements to the plant itself has taken a radical (and better) turn. Those plant improvements have risen in cost by about 45 million dollars.

A green infrastructure plan must be developed, evaluated and incorporated into plant improvements.

As I wrote in the last post, green infrastructure can be far less expensive than using grey infrastructure alone.

Thorough "green" planing is the key here. Perhaps millions and millions of dollars of your money hangs in the balance.

Going Green - A Storm Water Alternative Plan

November, 2, 2009: City Council passed a resolution that read in part "it is the goal of the City of Euclid to support and encourage sustainability in the daily operations and provision of municipal services in order to reduce overall energy consumption,use resources responsibly, be good stewards of the environment, and to save costs."

While the resolution applied to alternative energy, its well beyond time to apply this type of thinking to every aspect of City Government, including our Waste Water Treatment System.

As written in last week's post, the Federal EPA is requiring Euclid to make tens of millions of dollars of improvements to our system. The fees illustrated last week will pay for improved sewer lines, new holding tanks and improved storm water treatment. This type of approach is referred to as "Grey Infrastructure." It does nothing to address the AMOUNT of storm water that enters our system

An Alternative Approach

Keep water out of the system! By doing so, there is less need for more tanks, and greater treatment plant capacity. In other words, it takes the current storm water load off the system meaning fewer costly improvements are needed. Euclid should adopt a "Green Infrastructure" Program.

What is "Green Storm Water Infrastructure?

The Philadelphia Water Department has a great description: "Green storm water infrastructure includes a range of soil-water-plant systems that intercept storm water, infiltrate a portion of it into the ground, evaporate a portion of it into the air, and in some cases release a portion of it slowly back into the sewer system." Tools to intercept storm water run off include: rain barrels, pervious pavement for driveways and parking lots; rain gardens; tree trenches, "green" roofs. Green infrastructure also has the benefit of filtering the storm run off of pollutants such as oils, chemicals and nitrogen. And, that means a cleaner Lake Erie.

The Value of Trees in Storm Water Management

Trees soak up water, primarily through their root system. Tree leaves also prevents rain water from hitting the ground, and is then evaporated back into the air. Tree roots can also improve the soil, allowing the ground to absorb more water. Depending on the variety and size of the tree several hundred gallons can be absorbed each year.

Philadelphia and Lancaster, PA - Case Studies

To comply with Federal EPA regulations, the City of Philadelphia was faced with a 9 billion dollar tab to construct giant tunnels to hold storm water. The City does not have 9 billion. Therefore, Mayor Mike Nutter embarked on a program called Greenworks Philadelphia, a comprehensive green program for everything from energy usage, to recycling to storm water management. The storm water program, administered through the Philadelphia Water Department created new storm water management fees, and incentives to disconnect downspouts, install roof and and rain gardens, rain barrels, etc. Building pervious alleys and roads, urban forests and rain gardens on empty land, is another strategy behind the effort. Mayor Nutter believes that green infrastructure will cost about 7 billion less to comply with the Federal EPA than the proposed cost of the tunnels.

Lancaster is a city in some ways similar to Euclid: Older, smaller lots, a little bit larger than Euclid. They are located in the Delaware River watershed, so, are under EPA mandate to improve their waster water treatment system: Under a traditional approach of new tanks, and pipes and other plant improvements, the price tag was estimated at 300 million dollars. Lancaster City government instead adopted a green infrastructure approach that will cost less than half of that, about 141 million. What is most promising is that by adopting this green approach, Lancaster has won numerous grants to implement their plan.

North East Ohio Regional Sewer District

If we look in our own back yard, we would find that the North East Ohio Regional Sewer District is adopting many of the strategies found in Philadelphia, Lancaster, Chicago and other places: integrating green infrastructure into their sewer system improvements. NEORSD was just given permission by the courts to implement a storm water management fee ALONG WITH INCENTIVES to help keep water out of their system.

And, What of Euclid?

Before moving forward with any new fees, the City of Euclid owes it to our rate payers to evaluate the following:

1) Education: Almost two years ago now, Council passed legislation allowing the disconnect of residential downspouts with approval from the City Engineering Department. To date the City has not had a single request. The City should develop a website tab or a stand alone website dedicated to property owners that want to disconnect downspouts ,install rain gardens and pervious pavement.

2) Demonstration: Two years ago, I convinced the Euclid Schools to do a "test pour" of pervious concrete: the City was not interested. The City must take the lead in disconnecting downspouts, installing pervious pavement, planting rain gardens, trees and green roofs on City property.

3) Evaluation: As far as we can tell, the City's engineering firm has not really explored the green infrastructure approaches. The City must hire an engineering firm with green infrastructure experience to evaluate the current Long Term Control plan, and green alternatives. This firm should also evaluate how the system is managed, the proposed fee increases, and, potential alternative fee structures.

EPA

Will the Courts and the Federal EPA allow Euclid to revamp our storm water control plan? According to the online magazine "Waterworld" the answer seems to be "yes." The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will continue to promote the use of green infrastructure and work to develop an integrated planning process to help local governments manage wastewater discharges and stormwater runoff more efficiently and cost effectively. In commenting on the memo, Deputy Administrator Bob Perciasepe said, "An integrated approach allows communities to prioritize their investments to address the most serious water issues first and provides flexibility to use innovative, cost-effective storm- and wastewater-management solutions -– including green infrastructure."

To review: There are alternative strategies to Euclid's storm water problem, solutions that are better for the environment, and less expensive. So, do we go grayer, or greener? The choice is up to you.

Resources

City of Philadelphia:

http://www.phillywatersheds.org/what_were_doing/green_infrastructure

City of Lancaster:

National Tree Benefit Calculator:

http://www.treebenefits.com/calculator/index.cfm

N.E.Ohio Regional Sewer District: http://www.neorsd.org/stormwaterprogram.php

Rain Garden Manual for Home Owners:

http://www.tinkerscreekwatershed.org/documents/RGManual.pdf