Date: Monday, November 3, 2025
Location: Elyria City Hall
Clerk: Michael J. Lotko III, Clerk of Council
Opening
Council President Victor F. Stewart III called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. A moment of silence was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilman Phillip Tollett (At-Large).
All eleven council members were present: Victor F. Stewart III, Thomas G. Callahan, Chad Schneider, Phillip Tollett, Andrew C.G. Lipian, Brenda K. Davis, Mary Siwierka, Kenny Oswald, Brad Armstrong, Donna Mitchell, and Jack W. Cerra. Minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously.
Mayor’s Report – Kevin A. Brubaker
Mayor Kevin A. Brubaker discussed continued business growth in Elyria and announced several ribbon-cuttings for new local shops and a new senior clinic. The events, scheduled between November 5 and 15, mark ongoing redevelopment efforts at the Shops on Broad.
He also introduced Vincent Peterson II of McCauley & Company, which provides grant writing and lobbying support for the city, to deliver a semi-annual update.
McCauley & Company Report – Vincent Peterson II
Peterson summarized recent grants awarded to Elyria, including several related to parks, safety, and infrastructure. According to his report, the city has received more than $8 million in total grant funding since 2020, with multiple applications still pending.
Pending grants include federal and state programs for police staffing, fire safety, arts funding, and infrastructure improvements. Peterson also referenced continued collaboration with state and federal offices, including discussions of earmark projects now awaiting approval.
Councilmembers Tollett and Cerra praised the transparency of McCauley & Company’s work and noted the city’s strong return on investment. President Stewart requested a written summary of awarded and pending grants.
Safety Service Director’s Report – Chris Pyanowski
Director Pyanowski confirmed completion of the city’s ambulance and EMS study. Copies have been distributed to council members, and meetings with the consultant will be arranged to discuss the findings.
He also reported that labor negotiations with the city’s dispatchers union have concluded, with contract revisions being finalized for review.
Police Department Report – Chief James Welsh
Chief James Welsh thanked council for supporting the department’s updated patrol vehicles and confirmed four new units are in service.
The department currently employs 85 officers, including recruits expected to graduate from the police academy in December. Chief Welsh addressed new legislation that could affect officer transfers between departments and said the city would monitor its impact.
He also discussed plans to work with the Law Director’s Office on updating regulations for electric bicycles and similar vehicles.
Fire Department Report – Chief Joseph Pronesti
Chief Joseph Pronesti reported that emergency call volume continues to rise and encouraged council members to review the newly completed EMS study for potential improvements to response systems. He reaffirmed that Elyria firefighters will continue providing EMS support due to their paramedic training and medical equipment.
Engineering Department Report – John Schneider, P.E.
Councilman Kenny Oswald relayed resident feedback about construction timing, unmarked pavement, and lingering cones in project areas.
City Engineer John Schneider acknowledged these concerns and attributed delays to weather and contractor scheduling. He said the city will consider adjustments to project timelines and safety measures, particularly during holidays or community events.
Assistant City Engineer Kathryn McKillips and project staff Justin Dietz and William Forthofer are coordinating related improvements.
Human Resources Report – Jean Yousefi, SPHR
HR Director Jean Yousefi announced that open enrollment for employee benefits had begun and invited city staff to reach out for assistance.
Public Comment
A resident of Carol Lane expressed concern over plans to remove the traffic signal at Oberlin Road and West Avenue, citing pedestrian and traffic safety near Ely Stadium. Council President Stewart recommended that she meet with Councilman Brad Armstrong, Safety Service Director Pyanowski, and City Engineer Schneider to discuss options.
Legislation Passed
Council approved multiple ordinances and resolutions, most under suspension of rules, covering property disposal, compensation adjustments, lease agreements, and funding allocations. Notable actions included:
- Resolution 2025-50: Declares certain city property unfit for use
- Ordinance 2025-181: Extends downtown historic redevelopment grant for 124 Middle Avenue
- Ordinance 2025-182: Adopts the 2025 Compensation Study by Gallagher Benefit Services, Inc. (Councilman Thomas Callahan recused)
- Ordinance 2025-186: Authorizes a professional services agreement with Hazen and Sawyer for design work
A rezoning ordinance for West Ridge Road remains on second reading, with a public hearing scheduled for November 17 at 7 p.m.
Committee Calls
- Community Development: Nov. 10 at 6 p.m.
- Joint Community Development & Finance: Immediately following
- Finance: Nov. 10 after the joint session
- Strategic Planning: Nov. 17 after full council
Miscellaneous Business
Councilman Callahan encouraged residents to vote in the upcoming election. Councilwoman Donna Mitchell announced free weekly dinners at Second Baptist Church for residents affected by SNAP benefit reductions.
Mayor Brubaker reminded the public about the Rev 22K Race downtown, co-hosted with the Lorain County Veterans Commission, featuring food trucks and a fire department flag display.
The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
Disclaimer
This article was compiled using the official agenda, publicly available video of the meeting, a voice-to-text transcript, and other verified public records. Reporters for this publication did not attend the meeting in person. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and clarity based on available documentation.