Mentor · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Mentor public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Senior Center HVAC replacement
The city plans to hire HAVE, LLC to replace heating and air conditioning equipment at the Senior Center, keeping the facility comfortable and usable for older residents.
Residential leaf removal program proposal
Councilperson Cook asked the city manager to study whether vacuum-truck leaf collection is financially feasible — a campaign promise he says resonated with the community. A work session may be scheduled.
Residential Waste Collection Contract Extension
The city extended Waste Management's contract five years — with a renegotiated 2% cut to the $15.25 monthly solid waste portion in 2027, saving residents over $1 million versus the original proposal.
2027 Tax Budget
The required annual tax budget showing the city's need for property tax revenue was adopted and sent to the county auditor — more detailed this year at the county's request. It sets rates for next fiscal year; the actual operating budget comes later.
City Manager Rulemaking Authority
Council narrowly authorized the city manager to make operational rules for city property. Dissenting members worried this sidelines their role as a check — the pool cooler ban became the flashpoint example.
Law Director charter amendment and May 5 special election
Longtime Law Director Joe Szeman says this is his final year, and the residency/practice requirements in the city charter shrink the pool of possible replacements. Voters will decide on May 5, 2026 whether to drop the Lake County residency and private-practice requirements.