Mr. Sheridan stated that each sidewalk is a different contract and the City has different contractors. Mr. Kosco
added that the consultant's biologist identified a wetland on Valley View Road, which requires an Army Corps of
Engineers permit, as well as Indiana bat requirements. Mr. Kosco also stated that the drainage issue is part of
the Valley View Road project, which is still in the design phase and the project is anticipated to be bid this fall.
Mr. Sheridan said that he would like to set up a public meeting so that residents and Council all have the same
information.
9.
Discussion Items
A.
A RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO
ENTER INTO A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH
AKRON CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL FOR A SAFE HAVEN BABY BOX.
Brief Description: In October 2023, City Communication and Fire Staff
presented research for the Council discussion on Safe Haven Baby Boxes,
which are devices provided for under the State of Ohio Safe Haven Law and
legally permit birth parent(s) in crisis to safely, securely, and anonymously
surrender if they are unable to care for their newborn. In lieu of installing a
box at the Hudson Safety Center, Council indicated it would consider donating
up to $10,000 toward installation of a box at Akron Children’s Hospital
pending a mutually acceptable agreement with the other party.
Attachments:
Mrs. Kowalski provided background on the Safe Haven baby box initiative, stating that Akron Children's
Hospital was very receptive and willing to install a baby box in the ambulance bay area. She said that in
previous discussions, Council indicated support of $10,000 towards the baby box, two private donors have each
pledged $5,000, and Akron Children's has allocated $10,000. She further stated Mr. Pitchford revised the MOU
that Council had seen previously and hoped to pass the resolution at the Council meeting in order to expedite
funds to Akron Children's Hospital.
Responding to a question, Ms. Roberts stated that no formal commitment had been made prior to the passage of
the legislation.
Mr. Sutton said the original discussion of the City's contribution would be up to $10,000 but the resolution
dated for April 9th states the City's contribution shall be at least one-third of the purchase and installation cost .
Dr. Bird stated that he has a conflict of interest and will not enter into the discussion.
Mrs. Heater asked about the intent of the speaker on the Workshop agenda regarding other funding
opportunities, and expected more discussion about funding, not legislation nor an MOU.
Because of previous discussion on using city funds to pay for the baby box, Mr. Banweg invited a speaker to
describe a program that already provides baby boxes in Northeast Ohio. Private donors are welcome to
contribute but funds do not necessarily need to come from the City.
Responding to Mr. Banweg's question about cost, Mrs. Kowalski stated that the price of the baby box, shipping,
security system, fees, and construction at Akron Children's Hospital is approximately $30 ,000 plus continued
maintenance and fees. She also explained the revised MOU.
Further discussion followed on whether or not Hudson should contribute to the baby box .