At the Oct. 13 Second District Community Relations Safety Meeting, Second District Police Commander Tim Maffo-Judd opened the session at OneHope NEO, according to Signal Cleveland. The district covers Cleveland’s near West and near Southwest sides.
Cleveland Housing Court Administrative Judge Cheryl Wiltshire addressed housing clinics and a noticeable trend in trash tickets tied to setting trash out too early or late for pickup. Signal Cleveland reported that a Sept. 30 clinic was held at Mary Queen of Peace on the West Side and that another was scheduled for Oct. 29 at Tri-C, focused on Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority housing. More clinics are planned for 2027. Wiltshire suggested paying citations because fees can rise substantially and noted $5 monthly payment plans.
On trash questions, Wiltshire said the $350 excessive-trash ticket comes from Cleveland Building and Housing, not Housing Court. Older residents can seek disposal help through the city Department of Aging or the court; others, including people with disabilities, were told to call 311. For illegal tire dumping, residents were advised to record video and call 311, and to use bulk pickup for their own tires.
Littering on condemned property can lead to fines for the litterer and the owner, with video encouraged. For eviction leftovers, items go to the curb; landlords must schedule the eviction for a trash pickup day or arrange pickup within 14 days.
On the nuisance law, one public commenter said it appears to be helping. Wiltshire said the first step is 911; after a third call, the city sends a letter to the property owner. Attendees said the non-emergency line does not bring immediate help. One resident said he had waited four years; Maffo-Judd asked him to follow up after the meeting. Luis Gonzalez Jr. of the Community Relations Board recommended keeping a 311 tracking number for follow-up and cited a new city resource guide.