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in rural communities, but not in densely populated areas like Lakewood or Cleveland. She applauded the efforts of dispatchers during the Covid pandemic, adding that getting rid of their positions a few months after would be wrong. Cindy Eschweiler 7619 Memphis, Brooklyn Ms. Eschweiler, a 29 year resident of Lakewood, shared how high-quality public safety services can affect people's decision on what community to call home. She stated that Lakewood's dispatch answers about 24,500 calls for service on an annual basis, with 16% ofthose requiring an immediate and efficient response by police,fire or EMS personnel to an emergency. She reiterated the importance of rapid response in public safety incidents, and spoke about the higher potential for miscommunication or gaps in information that might come from a private service. She urged the administration to put public safety and keeping Lakewood's dispatch ahead of cost cutting measures. Discussion: President Litten expressed his thanks to the familiar voices and faces in Lakewood's safety forces that have helped his family in the past. He noted Council will be discussing the matter in Public Safety Committee on June 21s'. Councilmember Baker thanked all in attendance for their service and stated he will be researching the issue thoroughly. Councilmember Bullock expressed his appreciation to all who submitted public comment and recapped the variety of issues raised by the commenters. On the motion: All in favor. Motion passed. The communication was referred to the Public Safety Committee. 8. Communication from Mayor George regarding the Human Services Director Appointment. (pg. 9) Motion by President Litten, seconded by Vice President Kepple to receive and file the communication. All in favor. Motion passed. 9. RESOLUTION 2022-22 - A RESOLUTION to take effect immediately provided it receives the affirmative vote of at least two thirds of the members of Council, or otherwise to take effect and be in force after the earliest period allowed by law, approving the appointment of Chad Berry to the position of Director of Human Services upon his or her taking the oath of office. (pg. 10) Motion by President Litten, seconded by Vice President Kepple to refer Resolution 2022-22 to Committee of the Whole. Discussion: President Litten stated that it is the Council's intention to let the administration make its own hires for director positions. He added that the referral keeps in line with Council tradition to give the body an opportunity to ask questions of a new director. On the motion: All in favor. Motion passed. Resolution 2022-22 was referred to Committee of the Whole. 10. Communication from Mayor George regarding Gun Violence Awareness Month. (pg. 12) 7