West Cleveland News

Cuyahoga County's commitment to environmental sustainability and public safety has been significantly reinforced with the allocation of over $13 million in federal funds. Congresswoman Shontel M. Brown is responsible for earmarking these funds, which include $500,000 designated for the Cuyahoga Fresh Water Institute. In a parallel move, Congressman Max Miller has advocated for improvements to the Cuyahoga Emergency Communications 911 System, further bolstering efforts to advance freshwater initiatives and enhance emergency response capabilities across the region.

"Congresswoman Brown is committed to the health and well-being of Cuyahoga County residents," said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne, Cuyahoga County Executive, according to Cuyahoga County. "Her investment in the Fresh Water Institute will bolster our efforts to connect our residents to the region's vast freshwater resources. Congressman Miller has improved the safety of all Cuyahoga County residents with his support of the Cuyahoga County 911 System upgrade project, . “The new technology will advance our emergency dispatch systems for more seamless coordination across communities. We will be better able to pinpoint where help is needed and send it immediately."

According to Ideastream Public Media, Cuyahoga County initiated the Fresh Water Institute with the aim of promoting environmental stewardship and advocating for the preservation of Northeast Ohio's lakes and rivers. The institute also seeks to devise a business strategy that leverages Lake Erie's proximity for economic development. To achieve this, it collaborates with nonprofits, public and private entities, universities, and philanthropic foundations to tap into the economic potential of the region's abundant fresh water resources.

A press release revealed that Congressman Miller recently endorsed a multifaceted package designed to support various projects crucial to Ohio communities. Among these initiatives is an upgrade of technological infrastructure within the Cuyahoga Emergency Communications 911 System (CECOMS). This 24/7 public safety call answering system plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of all County residents.

In another press release from Congressman Miller's office, Paul Koomar, Mayor of Bay Village, said: "This project represents the final step in achieving complete Clean Water Act compliance. The allocated funds will support the engineering and design of an equalization tank, necessary sewer improvements, plan submission to the Ohio EPA, and preparation of vital bid documents." Koomar added that this funding signifies a crucial step forward in protecting community health and Lake Erie. He emphasized its demonstration of commitment to responsible environmental stewardship and its role in paving the way for a cleaner future for Bay Village.

According to another press release from Miller's office, both Senator Brown and Congressman Miller received praise from Kyle Dreyfuss-Wells, Chief Executive Officer of the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District. Dreyfuss-Wells lauded their efforts in securing funding for the Baldwin Creek Dell Haven Detention Basin Project. He commended the strategic approach of the district in leveraging this funding, which reflects its commitment to addressing sewer and stormwater needs and enhancing water quality for the community.