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Politics & Government
Council Approves Emergency RTA Rail Funding Without Committee Review
On August 19, Cleveland City Council passed $18 million in emergency funding to help the Greater Cleveland RTA replace aging railcars and improve safety features. The vote, fast-tracked under emergency powers, avoided standard committee hearings. Transparency advocates raised concerns about the lack of public input, while transit officials say the upgrades are critical to avoid service disruption.
(The Land, WKYC)
CPC Criticizes Emergency Legislation Surge
The Cleveland Community Police Commission (CPC) released a statement on August 22 criticizing the city’s growing reliance on emergency legislation. The CPC warned that fast-tracking policies without public comment undermines transparency and accountability. The statement comes amid debate over recent emergency votes on police oversight and housing initiatives.
(Signal Cleveland)
Courts & Investigations
Cleveland Police Officer Suspended After Use-of-Force Review
On August 14, the Cleveland Division of Police placed Officer Marcus Bennett on unpaid leave pending investigation into a use-of-force incident during a traffic stop in the Union-Miles neighborhood. Body camera footage released later that day shows Bennett using force after the driver allegedly refused to exit the vehicle. Civil rights groups have called for full disciplinary action.
(Cleveland.com, News 5 Cleveland)
Public Safety
Spike in Summer Shootings Prompts Community Response
Cleveland has seen a 22% rise in gun violence incidents since July 1, including multiple youth-involved shootings in Glenville, Mount Pleasant, and West Park. On August 17, local organizers launched “Peace Patrols” in high-impact zones, combining conflict mediation with youth programming. Police Chief Wayne Drummond pledged increased patrols and more collaboration with community leaders.
(The Plain Dealer, The Land)
Economy & Infrastructure
Port of Cleveland Expands Shipping Routes to Africa
The Port of Cleveland announced a new trade partnership with West African shipping firms on August 20, launching a monthly container route connecting Lake Erie to Lagos, Nigeria. Officials say the route will increase export opportunities for Midwest manufacturers and create new jobs in logistics and warehousing.
(Signal Cleveland)
Sewer District Project to Create Green Jobs in Slavic Village
The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District (NEORSD) began construction this week on a $22 million green infrastructure project in Slavic Village. The initiative will reduce flooding, improve stormwater management, and support over 75 jobs in environmental engineering and landscaping.
(Heights Observer, NEORSD)
Arts & Culture
Glenville’s “Soul on the Street” Block Party Draws Thousands
On August 24, the “Soul on the Street” festival brought music, art, and food to East 105th Street. Performers included gospel choirs, R&B artists, and local hip-hop groups, while youth painted murals and vendors sold traditional and vegan soul food. Organizers estimate a 30% increase in turnout from 2024.
(News 5 Cleveland, Cleveland Scene)
MOCA Cleveland Exhibit Centers Afro-Queer Identity
MOCA’s Beyond the Binary exhibit opened on August 17, featuring works by LGBTQ+ Black artists including Akron native Tyrese McCall. The installation blends sculpture, video, and performance art to explore intersections of race, gender, and activism. The show runs through October 12.
(Cleveland.com, MOCA Cleveland)
Weather & Environment
Heat Wave Pushes Cleveland to Record Temps
Between August 14 and 24, Cleveland experienced its hottest August stretch on record, with daily highs over 95°F and a heat index nearing 105°F. The city opened additional cooling centers and extended pool hours, while the health department issued advisories for seniors and unhoused residents.
(NOAA, WKYC)
