Presenter outlines $30 million water and sewer rehabilitation and 14¢ property tax-rate realignment in Cleveland address

Presenter delivered Cleveland's 2026 State of the City address, announcing a citywide water and sewer rehabilitation program that positions nearly $30,000,000 in infrastructure investment to begin construction this summer. The Presenter said the program follows completion of road improvements and more than 20 miles of drainage maintenance.

The Presenter said the city finance department received the Government Finance Officers Association certificate of achievement for excellence in financial reporting, calling the honor "one of the highest honors in governmental finance." The Presenter said the city realigned and reduced the property tax rate by 14¢ "to better match our actual maintenance and operations and debt service needs." An annual audit showed an approximate $1,820,000 increase in the governmental fund balance, and the Presenter said the city maintains a strong A1 rating from Moody's.

City officials described the tax-rate change as a realignment rather than a one-time rebate; the Presenter characterized it as aligning rates with current maintenance, operations and debt-service requirements. The address did not specify the previous or new exact tax rate value.

Looking forward, the Presenter said the infrastructure investment is intended to improve reliability and resilience for residents and businesses. No construction timelines beyond "begin construction this summer" were provided, nor were specific project locations or contractor awards announced.