Hudson adopts new city flag, repeals Boston Heights MOU authorization

by Judy Stringer

Hudson City Council voted unanimously to adopt a new city flag.

Mayor Jeffrey Anzevino spearheaded efforts to design a flag with the help of students and staff at Kent State University’s School of Visual Communication and Design. It is set to be unveiled at the June 21 Ice Cream Social as part of a broader commemoration of Hudson’s June 1799 founding.

The blue-and-white flag prominently features the city’s clock tower with hands that read ‘2:25’ as a nod to its adoption on the 225^th anniversary. Several members of council suggested the city coordinate efforts with an outside vendor so that residents would be able to purchase one. 

City council also agreed to the repeal of a 2008 resolution that granted the city manager authority to enter into a memorandum of understanding with Boston Heights related to economic development along the bordering Route 8 corridor.

Council member Skylar Sutton explained in earlier discussions that no MOU ever materialized despite that resolution being passed 16 years ago. The joint-development proposal came to light most recently in October when Hudson was asked to provide water for a proposed Fireworks Plant store to be located next to Sky Zone. Council ultimately declined the water connection.

In other legislative matters, council heard the second reading of a resolution allowing the city to enter into a cost reimbursement agreement with Summit County Department of Developmental Disabilities. The money changing hands will be used to buy equipment for the construction of an inclusive playground at Middleton Park.

DODD has awarded $430,000 to a local group raising funds for the inclusive equipment but needs a government agency to make the purchase. DODD will then reimburse the city. Council will vote on that resolution when it returns from recess July 9.

Pickleball and legal fees

Four residents spoke in support of a second Hudson Pickleball Classic during the public comment period. The inaugural tournament took place over Memorial Day weekend and raised $20,000 toward lighting the courts at Barlow Farm Park, according to organizer Hugo Sandberg. Sandberg and the other commenters said the event was a success and should be permitted to return in a similar form in 2025.

The park board, under direction from council, is currently considering reservation rules that would restrict the use of the courts for such events. Kathy Sandberg said the proposed rules would impede their ability to hold learning clinics or activities, such as a well-received parent/grandparent-child tournament, if the Pickleball Classic returns.

“Memories were made which long stand in these families,” she said of the parent-child tournament. “To lessen the days available would make it very difficult to do these special events.”

Residents Mimi Larsen Becker and Rosanne Thomas shared their concerns about the city’s legal expenses. Larsen Becker took issue with a lawsuit the city filed last year against former city manager Jane Howington and questioned if taxpayers will be liable for Howington’s legal costs now that Summit County Judge Kathryn Michael has ruled in her favor.

“City council never voted to authorize the suit or the money to pay for it given that the usual procedures provided for under the charter were not followed,” she stated.

Thomas said the lawsuit against Howington should not have been done “in secret” and suggested taxpayers’ money would be better spent on public services, such as Hudson Community Television. ∞