EDITOR’S NOTE: This is one in a series looking at what Lake County communities, agencies and school districts experienced in 2025 and what is facing them in 2026. Willoughby Hills Mayor Chris Hallum reported that the city was able to improve infrastructure, add businesses, improve services and red uce costs to residents last year. Related Articles Willoughby Hills Police photo enforcement program reduces speeding Matt Killeen sworn in as new Kirtland Fire chief House at Garfield National Historic Site in Mentor closed for renovations Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation to investigate Euclid Police shooting Scott Freiman to deconstruct Pink Floyd’s ‘Dark Side’ at Playhouse Square “We had a very productive 2025,” he said. “We began the year by installing sidewalks to our west end business district to provide a safer means of traversing that area. Residents and guests of the city can now safely walk along Chardon Road to go between the various businesses. New businesses coming to that area are able to link into that sidewalk with paths to their respective businesses.” The city will continue working with the shopping center ownership to make additional improvements to the area in the near future, Hallum said. Additionally, Chipotle opened on the city’s west end in November, marking another exciting addition to the area, Hallum said. Looking ahead to early 2026, the new AutoZone distribution center will open alongside Grocery Outlet, Burlington and Five Below. “Even more new businesses are planned throughout 2026, continuing the momentum,” Hallum said. “We’re also looking forward to the arrival of Jardee and Moe’s, a casual fine dining restaurant that will be opening in the former Local Tavern location. The building will be thoughtfully modified to better suit the new restaurant.” Next door to the former Local Tavern location, Cleveland Veterinary Rehabilitation has expanded their facility to accommodate their continued growth, Hallum said. The Willoughby Hills Planning and Zoning Commission and Architectural Board of Review approved a building addition at the veterinary rehab facility at 28915 Chardon Road. As part of the expansion, the gate analysis portion of the building was extended so that it is a little bit bigger and can accommodate more patients. A second doctor was hired in 2024 and a third veterinarian was also hired. After a long relationship with Republic Services, the city changed to a new waste disposal company, Major Waste, which provides more service at a lower price for residents, Hallum said. “This change brought weekly recycling pickup and a responsive, easy-to-work-with partner,” he said. “Major Waste’s drivers take great pride in their work, treating our community as if it were their own and helping keep our city clean and well cared for.” The engineering for the new multi-use path along the east side of SOM Center Road will begin with an estimated installation in 2027, Hallum said. The path will go from Mayfield Village to the corner of SOM and Chardon roads. ...read more read less