Shaker Heights · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Shaker Heights public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Firefighter entry-level hiring pipeline
A report recommended changing the minimum hiring age for firefighter/paramedics, which would affect who can apply for fire service jobs in Shaker Heights.
Police Lieutenant promotional examination process
The police department needs a new lieutenant eligibility list because the old one expired in December 2024 and staffing gaps are looming — one lieutenant is at the FBI National Academy and a commander retires at the end of July. The exam process recommendations were up for commission action.
Flock license plate reader contract
Speaker after speaker demanded Council cancel the City's Flock Safety camera contract, citing confirmed ICE access to the data and arguing the cameras threaten civil liberties. Council and administration have renegotiated guardrails but haven't canceled.
FOP Gold Unit labor agreement (2025-2027)
Shaker Heights has finalized its contract with police sergeants and lieutenants after a contentious negotiation that went to state fact-finding. The deal costs about $207,761 over three years and includes raises of roughly 4% then 3.5% a year, plus new benefits like paid parental leave. The patrol officers' contract is still up in the air.
Police entry-level hiring and declining applicant pool
Only 35 people applied for the police entry exam this year, down from 254 in 2013, and 25 took the test. The commission was scheduled to set the passing grade and certify the eligibility list so the department can hire for August academy seats. A shrinking pipeline means slower police staffing.