Council rescinds earlier action then approves renaming Caesar Field at Russo Ballpark; members ask review of naming-rights policy

Solon City Council on July 7 rescinded an earlier December ordinance and then approved a new ordinance dedicating Caesar Field as "Caesar Field at Russo Ballpark" in recognition of William and Mary Russo.

The council vote to rescind the prior ordinance and to adopt the new dedication passed on roll call. Two councilmembers — Councilmember Meaney and Councilmember Schimitz — voted no on both the rescission and the renaming; the remaining members voted yes.

The renaming prompted extended discussion about the city’s naming‑rights policy, adopted in December 2022 as ordinance 2022‑220 (referred to in meeting discussion as “ordinance 2022‑220”). Several councilmembers said the policy’s language blurred dedications (honorific namings) and commercial naming rights (time‑limited, fee‑based agreements). Councilmember Zellwein asked the administration to review whether dedications should be handled in a separate policy or be clarified within the existing policy so future dedications have clear timelines and terms.

Councilmembers repeatedly said they wanted consistency: if naming rights typically include an end date, dedications should be treated consistently or clarified so future councils and residents are not “handcuffed” by an indefinite name. Law Director Tom and other staff noted the policy is advisory and allows council to set terms; the policy’s section 6 states council may amend the guidelines with council approval.

Councilmember Zellwein asked that administration consider a separate dedication policy or clearer guidance distinguishing dedications from paid naming rights. The mayor and other councilmembers supported directing staff to draft clarifying language for council review.

The two-step action — rescission followed immediately by a new ordinance authorizing the dedication and declaring an emergency — passed at the meeting under suspension of the rules.