Kenneth Montlack Announces He Will Not Seek Re-Election

Cleveland Heights Councilman Kenneth Montlack announced at Monday night’s regular city council meeting that he will not run for re-election this fall.

Montlack, 71, has served on council for nearly 24 years.

“I found this work to be personally rewarding, but we as council members are elected to serve the community and not the other way around. So the overarching criterion for continuing our service ought to be what course is best for the community, and that includes the decision as to whether to seek re-election,” Montlack said before making his announcement.

“I will be leaving city council at the end of my current term …  and I do so with the belief that having a fresh set of eyes, of perspectives, will benefit Cleveland Heights.”

The four-year terms of Montlack, Councilman Dennis Wilcox and Vice Mayor Phyllis Evans are up at the end of this year. he will seek another term in the fall, but Evans has not formally shared her plans.

Montlack, who has lived in Cleveland Heights for 40 years, said he plans to continue to be involved in public service.

He said he has confidence in those who are running for council in November, but he’s not done yet. 

“There are five more months remaining in my term, so be assured that to the very last day of the term, I will be working earnestly for Cleveland Heights and as usual and appropriate, raising up my voice. This has been just a wonderful experience for me, and as always, I love this, this Cleveland Heights.”