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MINUTES OF COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE May 23, 2022 Auditorium Present: Councilmembers Baker, Bullock, Kepple, Litten (Chair), Rader, Shachner Also Present: Law Director Corrigan, Finance Director Rancatore, several members of the public, and Clerk Bach& Deputy Clerk Lascu taking minutes Call to Order: 6:07 p.m. Approval of the minutes of the May 16, 2022 Committee of the Whole. Motion by Chair Litten, seconded by Councilmember Kepple to approve the minutes from the Committee's last meeting. All in favor. Motion passed. Interviews for the office of Member of Council,Ward 4 of Lakewood City Council. Mary Brown Interview Ms. Brown provided an introductory statement discussing her role as a community organizer in the aftermath of the gun violence at Madison Park in 2021. She concluded that her efforts resulted in successful partnerships, new investments, and ensured that the park was safe, active, and inclusive. Ms. Brown discussed her position as an educator in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District and how she envisions her profession being a good complement to the role of councilmember. She remarked that she moved to Lakewood to experience its diversity and is an advocate for the community diversity. In response to a question from Councilmember Kepple about how she would equitably represent the entirety of Ward 4, Ms. Brown spoke about exploring strategies to promote housing affordability, welcome new residents, and increase voter turnout. In response to a question from Councilmember Rader regarding sustainability, Ms. Brown suggested that the city deputize volunteers to educate the public on sustainability topics. She described her property which is a certified rain garden and monarch habitat. She suggested the city develop programs and policies to incentivize sustainability, rather than penalize residents. In response to a question from President Litten about areas for personal growth, Ms. Brown indicated that she has a lot to learn about the logistical processes of Lakewood City Council,the research that informs certain city policies and the nuances of connecting with residents and communicating within city government. When asked if she would run for the seat, Ms. Brown stated that she would and that her commitment to service is strengthening and that she would love to grow into the role of councilmember.