Cleveland Heights Council Vacancy: How It Will Be Filled

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH — Voters will have final say on who replaces Mary Dunbar on Cleveland Heights City Council.

After much debate and concern over how a replacement for Dunbar would be selected, the city announced details on the process on Thursday. Ultimately, officials consulted the Cuyahoga County Board of Election and the Cleveland Heights City Charter, concluding "there is sufficient time to include on the November ballot names of candidates interested in filling the recently vacated seat..."

On August 25, Cleveland Heights City Council authorized a special election to occur on November 2, 2021 at the regular municipal election.

Candidates who wish to replace Dunbar and appear on the ballot will need to file nominating petitions with the Cuyahoga County Board of Election by 4 p.m. on Sept. 7. At least 50 signatures from qualified electors are necessary to appear on the ballot.

Whoever voters select for the seat will fulfill Dunbar's term, which expires Dec. 31, 2023.

Dunbar resigned on Aug. 16. She announced she was diagnosed with Parkinson's and would be moving to New Hampshire to be closer to her son.

"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."