FAIRVIEW PARK, Ohio -- Mayor Eileen Ann Patton recently named the city's latest Charter Review Commission. The group of resident volunteers includes Matthew J. Cavanagh, Erika Roitblat-Bowers, Nicholas Alexander, Michelle Sayer, Patrick J. Cooney, Frank Berkopec, John Mandula, Lauren Markus and John Betts.

"We had 20 applications and nine have been selected," Patton said. "They'll start meeting at the end of August. The members meet for nine months, and at the end they present to City Council any charter review amendments that they would like to see."

The charter amendment recommendations will be announced in May, with public discussions to follow.

In Fairview Park, the Charter Review Commission serves in an advisory capacity, meaning any recommendations must be approved by City Council, which can also add charter amendments on its own. The amendments must then be put before the voters.

The Cuyahoga County Board of Elections requires ballot issues to be submitted three months before Election Day.

Previously, Patton said some of the topics she would like the Charter Review Commission to examine include a reduction of City Council, which currently has seven members; the city's referendum zoning; and whether to hire a full-time economic development director. Currently, Shawn Leininger holds the title of Fairview Park director of public service and development.

"Those were some of the things that were thrown out way early," Patton said. "I don't think any of those will even be discussed. I'm going to sit still and let them do their job.

"The meetings are open to the public, so we're interested in hearing what the public has to say, as well. I'm really excited. We put together an excellent team from all walks of life. It's a big responsibility," she said.

City Council President Michael P. Kilbane added: "Off the top of my head, we still need to clean up 'masculine only' terminology contained within the charter. I thought this was done the last time, but apparently not. Also, I have several issues concerning checks and balances I'd like to see the commission look over."