Communities across Northeast Ohio are working hard to remain relevant. After the pandemic, cities need to find a way to keep revenues coming in, keep the schools strong and offer a safe, fun environment for people to want to live in.
For Ben Holbert, his passion for where he lives has turned into a thriving job. Starting off as a city council member in 2001, Holbert helped make Woodmere Village, on Cleveland’s Eastside, a growing community.
In 2018 the 640 residents of Woodmere Village elected the former TV reporter as mayor and asked him to do more for the city. That task was met with resistance as several city council members decided to reduce the staff and block all Holbert’s attempts to improve the city.
“The political fight with council intensified to the point that a community group stated it was known as the ‘Woodmere project,’ Holbert said. “These residences became so frustrated with four council members, that they pushed forward for a recall.”
After four new members were voted in, Holbert was allowed to accept the funds he requested to finish a pathway that connects Woodmere to Orange Village on the west side of Brainard Road. The $265,000 awarded from the State of Ohio was just the beginning of what Holbert wanted to do for the city.
Holbert won his re-election in 2021 when he ran unopposed.
With the right team and the city behind him, Holbert expects his new projects will move faster and continue to make Woodmere a place where people want to live and shop.
Eton Center is one of the best places in Northeast Ohio to eat and shop and there are plans to have more shops open soon.
“The community has 300 businesses, with more than 25,000 cars coming through our community on a daily basis,” Holbert said. “We have produced two outstanding music festivals in Woodmere that have generated significant community interest.”
Because of his media background, Holbert has been able to capitalize on opportunities to promote the village on radio and television and in newspapers.
Going into 2022, Holbert and the city of Woodmere Village expect to do more wonderful things. With the current political climate, Holbert watches his health very carefully to make sure he can perform his mayoral duties.
The future looks bright for the city, its mayor, and for those who call Woodmere Village home. ●
