The Cleveland City Council meeting held on September 29, 2025, featured a significant discussion on public safety, led by Josiah Quarles from Cleveland Heights. Quarles, representing the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless, addressed the council without any financial backing, emphasizing the importance of community safety.

Quarles opened his remarks by referencing a recent incident involving Rainbow Terrace, which he described as having "exploded." He highlighted the troubling history of the site, noting that it was constructed on toxic sludge dredged from the flats. This point underscored broader issues of environmental justice and the lingering effects of redlining and systemic racism in Cleveland neighborhoods.

The discussion on public safety was framed within the context of these historical injustices, suggesting that the legacy of past policies continues to impact current community safety and health. Quarles called for a reevaluation of how public safety is defined and approached in light of these ongoing challenges.

The meeting proceeded with further discussions on related topics, but Quarles' remarks set a critical tone regarding the intersection of public safety, environmental issues, and social equity. The council's response to these concerns will likely shape future initiatives aimed at addressing the complex factors affecting community safety in Cleveland.