City Council approves emergency ordinance for youth marketing contracts

A new emergency ordinance aimed at enhancing youth engagement in Cleveland was introduced during the Health, Human Services & the Arts Committee meeting on May 19, 2025. Council members Conwell and Griffin presented Ordinance Number 5592025, which authorizes the Director of Finance to enter into contracts with Rhonda Crowder and Associates LLC. This initiative focuses on providing an out-of-school time marketing program for young adults, set to run for 12 months with options for renewal.

The ordinance has already received approval from both the finance and law directors, signaling strong institutional support for the initiative. The program aims to create opportunities for youth and young adults, addressing critical needs for engagement and development outside of traditional school hours.

As the meeting progressed, committee members expressed their enthusiasm for the ordinance, highlighting its potential impact on the community. The collaborative effort underscores the city's commitment to fostering a supportive environment for its younger population.

This ordinance marks a significant step forward in Cleveland's ongoing efforts to provide resources and opportunities for youth, with the expectation that it will lead to positive outcomes in community engagement and development. Further discussions and updates on the program's implementation are anticipated in upcoming meetings.