Jim Petras

Taxes / Budget As mayor, I will focus on: Fully Staffing the Finance Department. Infrastructure / Transportation I will prioritize the implementation of the Comprehensive & Equitable Safety Action Plan (CESAP) and the Active Transportation Plan, both of which are designed to create safer streets for everyone. Infrastructure / Transportation Cleveland Heights deserves safe and well-maintained streets, whether you're driving, walking, or cycling. As mayor, I’ll make this a top priority. Infrastructure / Transportation We will improve the timeliness of pothole repairs and accelerate road resurfacing across all parts of the city. Wages / Job Benefits I’ll foster a workplace culture rooted in respect, accountability, and collaboration. That means listening to staff, providing the training and tools they need, and setting clear expectations for excellent public service. Taxes / Budget I will lead the transition to a modern financial software system that allows for better tracking, reporting, and forecasting of our financial activities. The Finance Department's staff are all but begging for a new system, and it's time to get it done. Housing To ensure that properties — both owner-occupied and rental — are safe and well-maintained, we will improve the consistency of housing inspections and strengthen code enforcement. At the same time, we will increase public awareness of financial assistance programs available to help homeowners with needed repairs and streamline how residents can access those resources. Economy I will establish a Cleveland Heights Business Advisory Council. This group will bring together local business owners and city staff on a regular basis to provide input on city policies, identify emerging challenges, and collaborate on strategies to strengthen our commercial districts. Infrastructure / Transportation We need to plan for the future. We will create a five- or ten-year capital plan that will provide a clear strategy for our city's infrastructure and long-term investments. Taxes / Budget Creating New Controls for Timely Reporting: We will establish new controls to ensure that regulatory deadlines are met consistently, improving both the timeliness and accuracy of our financial reporting. Infrastructure / Transportation It can be frustrating when you drive into neighboring cities and see their streets already plowed while ours remain covered, making it hard to get around safely. I will listen to our front-line employees to understand their challenges and collaborate with other nearby cities to learn their best practices so that we can identify opportunities for improvement. Taxes / Budget Resolving Outstanding Issues with the State Auditor and IRS: We will work swiftly to address and resolve all outstanding financial issues with the State Auditor and IRS, ensuring that we meet all compliance requirements and avoid unnecessary penalties. Housing 70% of Cleveland Heights' housing is at least 80 years old. That’s part of what gives our city its charm — but it also means we face serious challenges in maintaining and modernizing our housing stock. As mayor, I’ll lead a comprehensive effort to protect and strengthen our neighborhoods, starting with better oversight and support. Social Services On day one, I will direct the Law Director to initiate negotiations with the CH-UH School District to reopen the pool to the public during designated hours as quickly as possible. Taxes / Budget Ensure Timely Payment to Contractors: We cannot continue to pay contractors months after they’re expecting payment. Paying them on time is essential not only for maintaining trust and accountability but also for protecting the city’s reputation.