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Councilmember Kepple discussed the challenges of keeping sidewalks clear, mentioning the roles and contributions of the Chamber and Lakewood Alive. In response to a question, Operations Manager Donahoe discussed the snow removal equipment the schools use. He mentioned that he is in communication with the Director Ducu. Enrollment Update Superintendent Niedzwiecki reported that enrollment dropped from 6,005 in 2013 to 4,352 most recently. This spring, the schools will be engaging with a consultant to discuss right sizing the district based on this information, with a goal of maximizing building and staff efficiency, while not compromising any innovation. She further discussed how this initiative ties into the district's strategic planning efforts which are underway now and scheduled to be completed by mid- summer. Results of the strategic plan will be shared at the beginning of the school year. Discussion: It was noted that the enrollment decline has not been proportional with Lakewood's overall population trends, which have been steady. Superintendent Niedzwiecki reported that during the pandemic, the majority of families reported leaving the district for Cleveland schools, which suggests that they could no longer afford Lakewood housing prices. She added that enrollment decreases were even among schools. In response to a question, Treasurer Zeman remarked that school choice vouchers have not impacted the schools. Because the schools are highly rated, there are fewer qualifying events for families to use them. The bodies discussed the introduction of a bill in the state house that advocates for universal vouchers. The bodies discussed student diversity and the success that refugee and immigrant students have experienced in the schools. The bodies discussed the soaring price of housing and its impact on families. In response to a question from Councilmember Bullock, Superintendent Niedzwiecki discussed the district's efforts to advertise and reach out to Lakewood parent, including expansion of the preschool program, which connects families to the district earlier. Ms. Katzenberger suggested that the district track information from school resource officers to identify early warning signs that a family may need help to stay in Lakewood. Councilmember Litten suggested that the school district be given a speaking role at the landlord training seminar to help them inform landlords about the quality of the schools. This can help landlords to market their properties. Recreation Department—Joint Agreement& New Director Position Superintendent Niedzwiecki discussed the joint agreement between the City and the Recreation Department that was finalized this summer. One result of the agreement is a new joint committee where recreation issues are discussed. The process of creating the agreement helped both parties 3