Mayor’s Corner

October brings cooler temperatures, changing leaves and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fall season in Brecksville. With community events, seasonal activities and Halloween just around the corner, there is always something happening throughout our city.

I am grateful to the residents, volunteers, organizations, safety forces and city staff who help make Brecksville such a welcoming and active community. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the many activities happening throughout October and enjoy all that our community has to offer!

Leaf collection begins

As the leaves begin to change and fall, the city’s annual leaf collection is now underway. Residents are reminded to follow the city’s guidelines for placing leaves out for collection and to help keep streets, storm drains and sidewalks clear. If you have any questions, please call the service department at 440-526-1384.

Fall is a beautiful time of year in Brecksville, and I appreciate everyone’s help in keeping our neighborhoods clean and safe throughout the season.

Fall events in Brecksville

The City of Brecksville hosted its annual Safety Service Fair Oct. 4. This is a wonderful opportunity for residents and families to learn more about the important work of our safety forces and the services available to our community. We appreciate our police, fire and safety service personnel for the work they do every day to help keep Brecksville safe.

There are several great opportunities to get out and enjoy the season with family and friends. The Brecksville Boo-Ville Halloween Party will take place on Sunday, Oct. 18, from 1-4 p.m., at the Brecksville Community Center. Enjoy games, a Monster Mash dance party, potion lab, tractor rides, a pumpkin patch, petting zoo, magic show, costume contest and more. Food trucks will also be onsite. This is a free event for Brecksville residents. Pre-registration is required. Call 440-546-2300 to reserve your spot.

The Brecksville Kiwanis Trick-or-Trot will take place on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 8-10 a.m., at Blossom Hill. Proceeds will benefit The Haven Home and Brecksville Kiwanis Youth Services. Thank you to the Brecksville Kiwanis for continuing to provide opportunities that bring our community together.

Halloween safety

Trick-or-Treat will take place from 6-8 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31.

Halloween is a wonderful opportunity for families and neighbors to come together and enjoy one of our favorite fall traditions. As we celebrate, I encourage everyone to keep safety in mind.

Here are a few safety tips to help everyone enjoy the evening:

For children and parents:

  • Trick-or-treat in a group or with an adult.
  • Make sure parents know where children are going.
  • Only visit homes with porch lights on.
  • Walk, don’t run and stay on sidewalks whenever possible.
  • Look both ways before crossing streets and only cross at designated crossings when available.
  • Wear reflective or brightly colored clothing so drivers can see you.
  • Accept treats only at doorways and never enter a stranger’s home.
  • Keep away from candles and open flames.
  • Parents should check treats before children eat them.
  • Never eat unwrapped or opened candy or fruit.

For homeowners:

  • Turn your porch lights on and keep your yards well-lit if you plan to welcome trick-or-treaters.
  • Keep walkways and yards clear of objects that could cause children to trip or fall.
  • Battery-powered candles are preferable to open flames.
  • If you use candles, keep pumpkins and decorations away from trick-or-treaters.

For drivers:

  • Drive slowly and use extra caution throughout the evening.
  • Watch carefully for children and pedestrians crossing streets.
  • Avoid distractions and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods.

Enjoy a safe and beautiful fall

On behalf of the city administration and the Kingston family, I wish all of our residents a safe, healthy and enjoyable October. Please take time to enjoy the season, look out for your neighbors and have a safe and happy Halloween!