Cleveland Heights appoints new councilmember to focus on housing and Severance's future

Sarah Stone, a retired nonprofit executive, will fill the vacant at-large seat through 2027

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Cleveland Heights City Council has appointed resident and retired nonprofit executive Sarah Stone to fill Mayor Jim Petras' former at-large seat through 2027, giving the city a full seven-member council again. Stone says she'll focus on economic vitality, new housing on reclaimed lots, and planning for Severance Town Center while working from the city's Mission and Vision Statement.

Why it matters

The appointment of a new councilmember comes at a critical time for Cleveland Heights, as the city grapples with issues around housing, development, and the future of the Severance Town Center. Stone's background and priorities suggest she may play a key role in shaping the city's policies and direction on these important matters.

The details

Stone, who lives in the Roxboro neighborhood, was selected by the city council to fill the vacant at-large seat. She brings experience from her time as a retired nonprofit executive. In her new role, Stone says she plans to focus on economic vitality, new housing on reclaimed lots, and planning for the Severance Town Center redevelopment.

  • On February 19, 2026, Cleveland Heights City Council appointed Sarah Stone to fill the vacant at-large seat.

The players

Sarah Stone

A resident of Cleveland Heights and a retired nonprofit executive who was appointed to the city council to fill a vacant at-large seat.

Jim Petras

The former mayor of Cleveland Heights whose at-large council seat was left vacant, leading to Stone's appointment.

Cleveland Heights City Council

The governing body of Cleveland Heights that appointed Sarah Stone to the vacant council seat.

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What they’re saying

“I'll focus on economic vitality, new housing on reclaimed lots, and planning for Severance Town Center while working from the city's Mission and Vision Statement.”

— Sarah Stone, Newly appointed Cleveland Heights councilmember (Patch.com)

What’s next

The city council will work with Stone to implement her priorities around housing, development, and the Severance Town Center as she settles into her new role.

The takeaway

The appointment of Sarah Stone to Cleveland Heights City Council represents an opportunity for the city to address key issues around housing, economic development, and the future of the Severance Town Center under new leadership.