Sylvania City Council presses Toledo Edison on street light outages affecting senior safety

During the City Council meeting on December 2, 2024, residents of Sylvania expressed growing concerns over the prolonged outages of streetlights, particularly in neighborhoods with many seniors. One resident highlighted that a streetlight on their street had been non-functional for over two months, raising safety issues as darkness falls earlier in the winter months. The resident urged the council to take action, noting that Toledo Edison, the utility company responsible for repairs, has not provided a clear timeline for fixing the lights, which could extend until May 2026.

In response, council members acknowledged the issue and discussed steps to address the situation. The Chief of Police has been instructed to assess the number of streetlights that are out, and the law director is reviewing the contract with Toledo Edison to explore potential reductions in costs due to their failure to maintain existing lights. Council members expressed their commitment to pressuring the utility company to expedite repairs and ensure public safety.

Additionally, the council approved a change order for the Oakland Court Improvement Project, resulting in a decrease of $25,616.99 in the contract amount due to lower-than-expected costs for road stabilization. This project was noted for its smooth execution, with minimal disruption to residents.

Another significant topic discussed was the amendment of park regulations to clarify rules regarding overnight stays in city parks. The Chief of Police explained that the existing regulations, dating back to the 1970s, needed updates to address recent complaints about individuals setting up temporary living arrangements in parks. The new regulations aim to prevent long-term habitation while allowing residents to enjoy the parks. The Chief emphasized that the intent is not to criminalize homelessness but to connect individuals in need with local resources for assistance.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency regarding the streetlight issue and a commitment from the council to enhance community safety and improve park regulations. As Sylvania continues to grow, these discussions reflect the council's efforts to address the immediate needs of its residents while planning for the future.