Finance, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee - September 21, 2026

The Cleveland City Council's Finance, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee met on September 21, 2026, to discuss several procurement and budget-related ordinances. Key procurement actions included authorizing a 10-year lease with Playhouse Square Foundation for property on Chester Avenue at $25,000 annually, and approving a $250,000 green infrastructure grant partnership for parking lot improvements in the Gordon Square Arts District. The committee also approved multiple contracts for public utilities, including a $600,000 per year contract with BISUS Inc. for proprietary water system equipment, a $1 million staff augmentation contract for Cleveland Public Power, and a $1.5 million annual contract for SCADA and PCCS system maintenance. Additionally, contracts for underwater inspection services and water quality detection equipment were approved. Human resources-related contracts were authorized for COBRA administration (up to $49,000 annually), employee assistance programs (up to $250,000 annually), and training services (up to $100,000 annually). The committee also passed routine resolutions related to property tax collection and levy certification. Several ordinances were amended to clarify contract terms and reporting requirements. The meeting included discussions on maintenance responsibilities for grant-funded projects and the importance of understanding council obligations when voting on routine legislation.