Anthony J. Farris is new CH law director

Anthony J. Farris. Photo courtesy City of Cleveland Heights.

At its April 23 meeting, Cleveland Heights City Council voted to approve the appointment of Anthony J. Farris as the city’s first full-time law director. City Manager Tanisha Briley selected Farris as law director, but his appointment became effective only with the approval of a majority of city council, in accordance with the CH City Charter.

Farris, a graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Law, spent the majority of his career in municipal law with the City of Youngstown, holding several positions including chief assistant prosecutor, deputy law director and law director.

“He played a major role in reforming the city’s housing code in dealing creatively with the foreclosure crisis in Youngstown. He has represented the city in collective bargaining negotiations and has handled general civil legislation,” said Briley.

In an April 11 press release, Briley said the city decided to make the position of law director a full-time one, in order "to maximize accessibility, efficiency and consistency for the city." Briley said, "We took our time to find the right candidate and were impressed with the depth and range of legal and community issues that Mr. Farris has been involved in during his career."
 
After he was approved by council, Farris thanked members of council and the city manager saying that he was impressed with the operations of the city. “The general reputation of the city and its government are highly thought of,” he said. “I can’t wait to be part of this organization, the city and community.”

Deanna Bremer Fisher

Deanna Bremer Fisher is executive director of FutureHeights and publisher of the Heights Observer.

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Volume 7, Issue 5, Posted 10:07 AM, 04.29.2014