Cleveland Heights Council Unanimously Adopts Resolution Condemning Antisemitism After Public Allegations

Cleveland Heights City Council on May 19 adopted Resolution 100-2025, condemning antisemitism and reaffirming the city—s commitment to inclusion after public commenters described alleged antisemitic statements by the mayor's spouse and urged formal action.

The measure, introduced on first reading and moved for adoption the same night, affirms the city—s rejection of hate and states that public officials and those closely associated with them are expected to "conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the integrity, accountability, and ethical standards expected by the people they serve." The council voted to adopt the resolution in a roll call that recorded unanimous support from members present.

The resolution followed more than an hour of public comment, during which multiple residents described alleged remarks they said were made by the mayor—s wife and pressed council for remedies. "These are serious allegations that reflect a growing and dangerous trend of casual antisemitism being brushed aside or minimized," said Sarah Popivker, a Cleveland Heights resident during public comment. "Adopting [the IHRA] definition of antisemitism would send a strong message that this city takes antisemitism seriously."

Other residents called for apologies and accountability. "Words alone are not enough. Our community is watching closely and expects accountability, transparency and a clear stand against hate," said Jacob Berger, identifying himself as an Orthodox Jew and a resident. Several commenters urged specific policy steps, including adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance working definition of antisemitism; the resolution itself does not adopt that definition but reaffirms municipal commitment to combat antisemitism.

Council members characterized the reported comments and related behavior as unacceptable. "I am going to apologize on behalf of the city to Eric, Jessica, Marty, Jason, Michael, and Jim for the hurtful, false, defamatory, and antisemitic remarks in those text messages," said Councilmember Cobb, referencing individuals named in recent media reports. Councilmember Larson said she was "disgusted" by the alleged verbal treatment and called on Mayor Saren to apologize to affected employees and residents. Council President Kuda and others said the city must restore trust and ensure a safe workplace.

The resolution—s text cites recent media reports and affirms the council—s position that silence or inaction can be interpreted as complicity. It directs community leaders and public officials to speak out against antisemitism and to stand in solidarity with Jewish residents.

Council members and many speakers at the meeting also urged additional steps beyond the resolution: transparent investigations into workplace complaints, clearer rules on access to municipal offices, and implementation plans so policy pronouncements translate into personnel and procedural changes. Councilmember Cobb noted concerns that employees who complain must not face retaliation and urged protections for staff who raise workplace issues.

The resolution (100-2025) was introduced on first reading and placed on the agenda for immediate adoption as an emergency measure. The motion to adopt passed in a roll call vote with all members present recorded as voting in favor.

Council members said they expect follow-up actions, including possible policy changes and clarifications on building access and staff protections; specifics were not adopted as part of Resolution 100-2025. Mayor Saren was not present for the meeting—s conclusion; commenters and council members asked for a direct statement and personal apologies from the mayor in coming days.