Mayor’s Report

October is always a busy time in Willoughby, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fall weather, explore our community, and take part in events throughout the city.

On October 24, join us for the annual Pumpkin Chunkin event at 10 am. at Osborne Park, followed by the Trick or Treat Trail from 12–1:30 pm. along the 1-mile loop in the park.

Downtown Willoughby Merchants will host two popular events later in the month. Willo Woof on October 27 from 5–7 pm. for our four-legged friends, followed by Willo Boo, the downtown Willoughby Trick or Treat event on October 28 from 6–7:30 pm.

As Willo Boo has grown over the years, we ask that attendees follow the flow of trick-or-treaters through Downtown Willoughby. Keeping everyone moving in the same direction will help maintain a steady flow and make the event safer and more enjoyable for everyone. Trick-or-Treat in Willoughby is always held on October 31 from 6 pm – 8 pm. For additional event information, please visit the city’s website and Facebook page.

As we head into fall, a quick reminder that small considerations can make a big difference in our neighborhoods. Please be mindful of how activities on your property may affect your neighbors, including feeding outdoor or feral cats, which can attract additional animals and create nuisance concerns for surrounding properties.

We also encourage residents to be considerate of noise, parking, property maintenance, and keeping sidewalks and streets clear. A little consideration for our neighbors goes a long way toward keeping Willoughby a safe, clean, and welcoming community.

Fall also means the return of our annual leaf collection. The Service Department plans to begin curbside leaf collection in mid-October, with collection continuing through the first week of December, weather permitting. Please place leaves on the tree lawn, not in the street, to help keep our roads safe and prevent leaves from blocking storm sewers. Thank you for helping our Service Department keep the process moving safely and efficiently.

As we look ahead to November, I also want to remind residents that the November 3, 2026, General Election will include two City of Willoughby tax levy renewals.

The first is the Road & Bridge Levy, a 2-mill, five-year renewal originally approved by Willoughby voters in 2006. The levy generates approximately $1,267,480 each year, and the funds support the construction, reconstruction, resurfacing, and repair of streets, roads, and bridges throughout the City. These funds supported projects such as River Rd Slope Stabilization, Rt 84 Slope Stabilization, Concrete Slab Replacements, and annual Road Programs.

The second is the General Operating Levy, a 0.9-mill, five-year renewal originally approved by voters in 1976. This levy generates about $157,186 annually and supports the City’s current operating expenses.

Both levies are renewals and will not increase your tax bill. The renewals would allow the City to continue receiving the revenue these levies currently generate for their designated purposes. For election information, please visit the Lake County Board of Elections website at www.lakecountyohio.gov/boe.