Mayor Gregory P. Kurtz's Weekly Update for June 21, 2024

IPD Installs Second

Blue Light Camera

These images were captured from a new blue light camera on Brecksville Road and Selig Drive.

The Independence Police Department's second blue light closed-circuit television camera was installed at Brecksville Road and Selig Drive. These images, taken from a video screen, are an example of the camera feed.

This new camera complements a similar camera at Chestnut Road and Brecksville Road. The video footage from these cameras is kept for 72 hours. The cameras have been used to solve incidents in the area.

The IPD has discussed these cameras with residents several times at Police and Community Engagement (PACE) meetings held on the first Thursday of each month at the Civic Center.

Police Exam Features

Three-Part Testing

The only way to register for the online written test is to contact the National Testing Network at www.nationaltestingnetwork.com.

Applications for the Competitive Examination for the position of Police Patrol Officer for the City of Independence will be accepted from June 24 to August 23, 2024.

This examination will be given in three parts. The first part is a written test, which will be held on June 24 to August 23 at a National Testing Network testing location. The score of the written test accounts for 50% of the total grade.

The second part will be a physical agility test, which will be given at a later date in Independence. The physical agility test will follow the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) state fitness standards.

For additional information visit www.independenceohio.org

or click here.

Parks & Recreation

Programs Usher In Summer

Residents participate in the first Family Health and Fitness Day on June 8 with a fitness history hike along the Hemlock Creek Trail led by Kim Sowinski.

Golfers tee up fun during play at Shawnee Hills Golf Course.

Pickleball players take to the court in preparation of upcoming games and tournaments.

The Parks and Recreation Department has several programs ready to make summer more enjoyable for our residents.

The new Youth Golf Program teed off with six golfers in grades seven through 12 enjoying a weekly nine-hole round of golf at Shawnee Hills Golf Course in Bedford. Players in the program will play a round of golf every Tuesday until the end of July.

The new Youth Pickleball Program is underway with about 20 players in grades six through 12 participating in the fun two-hour class offered on the outdoor pickleball courts.

A Community Hike is scheduled on Friday, July 12 from 9 AM to Noon at the Land Lab at the Independence Board of Education, 7733 Stone Road.

This free family event features a continental breakfast at the Land Lab Pavilion followed by hikes guided by members of the Independence High School Biology Society. Registration is recommended by calling 216.524.7373.

Looking For Seasonal

Job? Scan This Code

Interested in a seasonal position with the City of Independence? Scan this QR Code to view Job Openings.

Red Cross Needs Blood

Donations of All Types

The American Red Cross continues to experience a declining blood supply. You can help by donating blood during one or all of the following blood drives.

Blood drives will be held at the Civic Center on Mondays July 8, July 29, and August 19 from Noon to 6 PM; Tuesday, August 6 from Noon to 6 PM; and Saturday, August 31 from 9 AM to 3 PM.

Donors must be 17 years of age (age 16 with parental permission) or older. An appointment is recommended and can be made at redcrossblood.org or by clicking here. Please be sure to bring your blood donor card or other form of photo identification.

Idea Camp 2024

Challenges Participants

IDEA Camp participants have plenty of adventures to look forward to as the summer months unfold.

The Independence Discovery Exploration Adventure (IDEA) Camp has been in full swing for nearly two weeks now with participants enjoying crafts, sports, swimming, trips, and listening to informative guest speakers.

The third week will run from Monday, June 24 to Friday, June 28.

Discovery Camp is held for residents entering either first or second grade.

Exploration Camp is held for residents entering either third or fourth grade.

Adventure Camp is held for residents entering fifth through eighth grades.

'Senior Org" Group Learns

About Fraud, Scams

Independence Police Officer Jim Green greets the "Senior Org" group and discusses scams and how to protect personal information.

Members of the Senior Citizens of Independence ("Senior Org") received an eye-opening presentation about fraud, scams, and identity theft.

Independence Police Officer Jim Green attended the June 14 Senior Org luncheon to lead the discussion. Officer Green outlined ways thieves can gain access to someone's identity and the damage that can be done once information has been compromised.

Education and communication are keys to keeping your family safe from predatory crimes like identity theft, Office Green said.

By the way, the "Senior Org" is open to all Independence residents age 55 and older. To join this group, please call Community Services at 216.524.7373 or click here.

Treasure Hunt Continues

At City-Wide Garage Sale

What's the old proverb ... one man's trash is another man's treasure? The Independence City-wide Garage Sale continues today (June 21) and tomorrow (June 22) from 9 AM to 4 PM.

A map and list of addresses are available on the City's website www.independenceohio.org and the Civic Center.

Garage sale permits will be waived for all participants only during the weekend of the event.

Advertisements will appear on the City's website, social media platforms, and various local publications. Participants are responsible for street and home signage. Happy shopping!

Keeping Their Cool

During Intense Heat

L-R: Anthony Sirna, Justin Prugar, and Anthony Mancini of the Service Department take a break from road patching Brecksville Road during the intense heat we've experienced this week.