CH City Council narrows candidates for open seat to four

On March 14, the city of Cleveland Heights sent out a news release stating: Cleveland Heights City Council has been reviewing candidates to fill the currently vacant seat on the Council. The seat vacated late last year has meant that Council is currently operating with six rather than the full seven members.

"With an engaged community such as Cleveland Heights, it is no surprise we had 35 applicants for this important position," said Mayor Carol Roe. "We reviewed each candidate's application and video interview and brought in four exceptional candidates."

The candidates selected are Cleveland Heights residents Craig Cobb, Tamika Martin, Melody Joy Hart and Davida Russell. You can view their application and taped screening interviews on the city's website, www.clevelandheights.com. Formal interviews have been conducted by City Council and a decision is expected shortly.

A swearing-in ceremony for the new Councilperson will be on Monday, April 15. "It has been wonderful to see the interest from so many of our residents who want to serve our community" said Roe. "We thank all 35 people for their interest and their commitment to Cleveland Heights."

[Editor's note: According to Susanna Niermann O'Neil, vice city manager, there were 41 applicants at the deadline. Six of them withdrew for "a variety of reasons," and one of the remaining 35 was unable to schedule an interview.]