Lakewood Hospital Closure to be Decided on November Ballot

LAKEWOOD, OH — It’s unanimous. Lakewood City Council has agreed to let voters decide whether to reopen Lakewood Hospital, which was closed in December.

The issue came after city officials and some residents have been at odds over whether to reopen the hospital or leave it closed in favor of a Cleveland Clinic health center.

Save Lakewood Hospital supporters say the hospital is worth saving as an inpatient facility. Supporters blame mismanagement of the hospital when it was open on the council and Lakewood Mayor Mike Summers for short-changing the century-old facility in budget contributions.

The "promise" of a new family healthcare center to replace Lakewood Hospital is only an “illusory promise and commitment,” according to supporters, who say an absolute commitment should have been negotiated beforehand.

The vote will be held Nov. 8, the date of the general election.

City Council President Sam O'Leary says that holding a special election in August would be an “irresponsible use of taxpayer dollars.”

A public vote in November can possibly force the city to reopen the hospital and keep it running as an inpatient facility with Cleveland Clinic or possibly with another entity in charge.