Cuyahoga County reappoints two members to archives advisory commission; officials flag budget and digitization needs

The Human Resources Employment and Equity Committee on Oct. 21 confirmed two reappointments to the Cuyahoga County Archives Advisory Commission and heard extended discussion about the archives’ role and funding needs.

The committee approved Resolution CR20250294, reappointing Kenneth A. Bravo to the Archives Advisory Commission for a term running Dec. 1, 2025, through Nov. 30, 2029, and Resolution CR20250295, reappointing Chris H. Garrett for the same term dates. Both pieces of legislation were moved forward to second reading.

Ken Bravo described his legal background and long experience with genealogical research, which he said has made him a frequent user of county archival records: “...since the mid 1970s, I have been an avid genealogist... that's where a lot of the records are,” Bravo said. He also said the commission plans to invite council members to tour the archives.

Chris H. Garrett, who described a professional background in equipment engineering and volunteer work at the archives, urged that the county develop a long-term plan for the archives including digitization and succession planning. When asked about the likely budget increase to support scanning and storage, Garrett estimated the work would require “hundreds of thousands” of dollars.

Several council members praised the archives and stressed the risk of overlooking it in budget processes. Committee members and the appointees emphasized the archives’ use by municipalities and residents for historical and property research.

Both reappointments were advanced to second reading by unanimous voice votes in committee with no recorded opposition.

Committee members asked staff and the archivists to continue developing a long-term strategy and to provide cost estimates and a plan for digitization and records management to inform future budget requests.