Community member urges council to prioritize power outages over development debates

In the heart of Lakewood, Ohio, residents gathered for a city council meeting that revealed pressing concerns about power outages and community safety. As the evening unfolded, one resident shared a poignant story about the challenges faced during recent tornadoes that left many without power for days. With medications requiring refrigeration and pets to care for, the struggle was palpable. “Every time we lose power for over a day, we lose everything in our fridge,” she lamented, highlighting the broader issue of how these outages disproportionately affect vulnerable community members.

The resident's heartfelt plea resonated with council members, who acknowledged the ongoing frustrations with FirstEnergy, the local utility provider. Council President Keppel reassured attendees that the council is actively advocating for answers and accountability from the utility company. “We are pulling every lever that we can to hold FirstEnergy accountable,” he stated, emphasizing the council's commitment to addressing the power issues that have plagued the community.

The discussion also touched on safety concerns, with another resident proposing the installation of convex mirrors at narrow driveways to prevent accidents, particularly near schools. This suggestion was met with support from council members, who recognized the importance of enhancing safety measures in the community.

As the meeting progressed, council members expressed gratitude for the city staff's efforts during recent events, including a successful July 4 celebration. They acknowledged the hard work of public safety and public works employees in maintaining community spirit and safety.

Looking ahead, the council announced upcoming community conversations aimed at fostering dialogue between residents and officials. These informal gatherings will provide a platform for residents to voice their concerns and ideas, reinforcing the council's commitment to transparency and engagement.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while challenges remain, the dedication of both residents and council members to improve Lakewood's quality of life is unwavering. The call for action on power outages and community safety reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that all residents' basic needs are met, paving the way for a more resilient future.