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PLANNING &DESIGN COMMISSION <br /> CITY OF NORTH OLMSTED <br /> MEETING MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 24,2025 <br /> ROLL CALL <br /> Mr.David called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. <br /> Present: Tom David,Jose Leon,Brenton Mineo,Tony D'Alessandro,Ms.Kalin ' _ <br /> Staff:Director Max Upton, City Engineer Jeff Filarski,Director of Law Bryan O'Malley <br /> Administrative Assistant Lyn Wilson <br /> MEETING MINUTES <br /> The meeting minutes.of August 13,2025,were submitted for approval; all in favor none <br /> opposed. <br /> NEW BUSINESS <br /> Referral from City Council ORD.2025-92 <br /> Repeal Ordinance 2017-32 and Ch. 1119 <br /> Director Upton explained that the ordinance originated from City Council after 16 months of <br /> collaboration between the Building and Economic Development Departments.He stated that the <br /> previous system created confusion between certificates of zoning compliance and occupancy, <br /> often resulting in businesses operating without valid occupancy certificates—an issue <br /> highlighted by legal cases elsewhere.The new ordinance consolidated the process, so all <br /> businesses obtain a certificate of occupancy that verifies zoning compliance, simplifying internal <br /> procedures,reducing liability, and improving coordination with Fire Prevention. <br /> The Director of Law concurred with Mr.Upton,noting the change closed loopholes, clarified <br /> department responsibilities, ensured compliance with the Ohio Building Code, and addressed <br /> occupancy changes tied to zoning updates.He added that existing penalties were consolidated, <br /> appeal provisions clarified,and the code updated to better align with current practices. <br /> Commission members asked whether a grace period would be provided for existing businesses to <br /> comply without penalties.Director Upton explained that when the Fire Department encountered <br /> a business without a valid certificate of occupancy,they simply advised the owner to obtain one <br /> through the Building Department without issuing penalties or additional fees, allowing them to <br /> correct the issue in good faith. <br /> Commissioners also asked if each new occupant, even with the same type of business,would be <br /> required to obtain a new certificate of occupancy.Director Upton confirmed they would, <br /> explaining that each occupant must be identified as the responsible party for the building and that <br /> the updated process allows for review under the fire,zoning, and building codes to ensure safety <br /> systems such as sprinklers, smoke detectors, and exits are compliant. <br /> 1 <br />