Mayor Thomas approves purchase of bicycles for Richmond Heights Police Department

The Richmond Heights City Council convened on April 11, 2025, to discuss several key initiatives aimed at enhancing community safety and municipal services. The meeting highlighted the approval of a resolution for the purchase of four police-ready bicycles, a move aimed at revitalizing the Richmond Heights Police Department's bicycle patrol program.

Mayor Thomas expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, noting that the department's current fleet includes five bicycles, four of which are over 15 years old. The new bicycles, sourced from Volcanic Bikes, will be outfitted with essential equipment, including saddlebags, police decals, lights, and sirens. The Chief of Police emphasized the importance of having modern equipment for officers, stating that training for the new bike patrol is set to begin on May 5, 2025, in preparation for summer community activities.

In addition to the bicycle program, the council also discussed the renewal of a contract with Civic Plus for website services. Mayor Thomas reported that the current website has improved functionality and security compared to the previous county-managed site, which faced frequent hacking issues. This renewal will allow for real-time updates to community events and information.

Another significant topic was the approval of funds for environmental remediation at the Greenwood Farm Park barn, with SteriClean contracted for the project. This initiative aims to address environmental concerns and enhance the park's facilities.

Lastly, the council introduced a resolution for the purchase and installation of a new HVAC rooftop unit for the fire station, ensuring that essential services remain operational and efficient.

These discussions reflect the council's commitment to improving public safety, enhancing municipal services, and maintaining community infrastructure in Richmond Heights.