Council discusses cashless strategy to manage Kane Park credit card fees

During the recent Cleveland Heights Finance Committee meeting on February 25, 2025, discussions centered on the city's budget, particularly regarding credit card fees associated with Kane Park. Council members expressed a desire for greater transparency in understanding how these fees impact the overall budget.

One key point raised was the significant credit card fees incurred at Kane Park, which are expected to increase as the city moves towards a cashless payment system. While this transition aims to enhance internal controls and streamline revenue collection, it also means that the city will need to budget for these fees as part of its financial planning. Council members acknowledged that while eliminating these fees is not feasible, the revenue generated from ticket sales will help offset the costs.

Councilor Cupp emphasized the importance of having a detailed breakdown of budget expenditures, line by line, to better inform council members about spending patterns. This level of detail is seen as crucial for making informed decisions as the budget process unfolds.

Additionally, the committee discussed the need for clarity on variances in the budget, with a request for a report to be prepared before the next meeting. This report will help council members understand any significant discrepancies in the financial data presented.

As Cleveland Heights navigates its budgetary challenges, the focus remains on ensuring that financial decisions are transparent and that the community is informed about how funds are being allocated. The committee's discussions reflect a commitment to responsible fiscal management and accountability to residents.