Cleveland Heights City Councilperson Resigns

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH — Mary Dunbar resigned from Cleveland Heights City Council during Monday's regular meeting.

Dunbar said she was diagnosed with Parkinson's in January 2020. Since her diagnosis, she said, she has been researching the disease, participating in physical therapy and taken part in three clinical trials. She also began taking medication for the disease in 2021.

"I feel my case is going very fast and I'm unable to do as many things as I used to be capable of," she said.

As she has no family in the Cleveland area, she plans now to move to New Hampshire to live near her son and his wife. The move will likely be completed in early October, she said during the council meeting.

Her resignation from city council will take effect immediately.

"Making this decision has been hard for me. It has been stressful, but I must do it," she said. "In conclusion, let me say, it has been an honor to serve the citizens of Cleveland Heights as a council member."

Dunbar has lived in Cleveland Heights since 1970. News of her departure was met with grief by all of her peers on city council. They described her as a voice of reason and calm, a mentor and a guide during her 10-year tenure on council.

"Mary has been a vital and valuable Council member for 10 years. Even before that she was an active member of our community promoting fitness and environmental issues. Mary will be missed and we wish her the very best," said Susanna Niermann O’Neil, city manager.

"This is a big loss and a tough loss for this council and for this city," said Councilperson Michael Ungar, a sentiment echoed by everyone on the dais. "You have been a truly outstanding council member."

Vice President of Council Kahlil Seren presented Dunbar with a proclamation in honor of her service and dedication to the city.

Dunbar's term was originally set to expire in 2023. Cleveland Heights City Council is debating altering its requirements and protocols for replacing a departing councilperson.

"We will work posthaste to fill the vacancy on council," Seren said. He noted that applications for the open position will be accepted starting Tuesday.

Video of Monday evening's council meeting is below.