Anthony R. Whitfield approved for Cleveland City Planning Commission seat

The Mayor's Appointment Committee approved the appointment of Anthony R. Whitfield to the Cleveland City Planning Commission on a term running through Oct. 10, 2031.

The appointment fills a vacancy left when Isabella McKnight moved away, bringing the commission to seven members, Director Mersman told the committee. Mersman also said the council recently approved legislation to allow two paid alternates for the commission and that staff will bring recommendations for those positions in the near future.

The matter drew related discussion about conflicts of interest and planning priorities. A law department representative told the committee that "section 26 of the city charter prohibits a city council member from simultaneously holding other public office," citing that rule in the context of appointments to the RTA board. Director Mersman recommended Whitfield, saying he "has served on our voluntary design review committees for several years" and "brings a diverse and robust background in terms of engineering and technical development expertise, community development and engagement, and the design review purview of city planning."

During questioning, Councilmember Kelpis said he supports modular housing and urged the commission to be flexible on housing forms to jump-start construction, while noting financing challenges for manufactured homes. Kelpis also criticized restrictions on front-load garages in some parts of the city and urged a creative approach to allow more housing investment. Whitfield replied, "I agree. I'm on board with modular housing," and said he had some concerns about front-load garages but supported flexibility.

Councilman Star asked how Whitfield would handle a situation in which a council member opposed a development that the planning commission favored. Whitfield said he preferred "to sit and have a conversation with the council representative and try to find a way to make it work," adding that a legal fight "usually takes a very long time."

With no objection, the committee confirmed Whitfield's appointment and adjourned the meeting.

The committee discussion also noted process items for the planning commission: applications typically move from a design review advisory committee (where applicable) to the full commission with that committee's recommendations, Director Mersman said. The committee did not take separate action on policy changes regarding modular homes or garage orientation at this meeting.