Hello Villagers,

As we welcome a new year—and a historic one for our community—the Village is proud to share the first update of 2026. This year marks an extraordinary milestone: our 200th anniversary. For two centuries, our Village has grown, adapted, and thrived thanks to dedicated residents who care deeply about the place we all call home.

As we begin this bicentennial year, we are pleased to highlight several accomplishments that reflect our shared commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.

Strengthening Environmental Stewardship
Over the past year, the Village made major strides in caring for our natural environment:

• Completion of Invasive Species Removal on Four Pilot Properties
  Thanks to the dedication and hard work of the Tree Canopy Committee and the Gates Mills Land Conservancy, the Village successfully finished the first phase of its long‑term ecological restoration initiative. Clearing invasive species on four pilot sites not only protects native plant life but also supports healthier habitats for local wildlife. This effort lays the groundwork for expanded restoration work across the community in the years ahead.
• A Remarkable Increase in Recycling—Up 348%
  Thanks to the dedication of residents and the rollout of the new tote system, recycling in 2025 surged dramatically.
  • 2024: 99.11 tons of recyclable material
  • 2025: 344.60 tons
    This represents a 348% increase, a tremendous achievement that demonstrates how small changes—combined with community participation—make a significant impact.

These environmental accomplishments show what we can achieve when we work together toward a cleaner, greener future.

A Continued Commitment to Community Safety
While 2026 is just getting underway, the Village continues to prioritize investments that keep our neighborhoods safe and resilient. Ongoing collaboration among Village departments, local organizations, and residents remains the foundation of our safety strategy, and we look forward to sharing more updates throughout the year as projects progress.

Celebrating Community and Engagement
As we enter our 200th year, there will be many opportunities to honor our shared history and look toward our future. Planning is underway for bicentennial activities, and community events designed to bring residents together. Your participation—whether through volunteering, attending events, or sharing your own stories of the Village—will make this year especially meaningful.

Looking Ahead
Our Village has always been strongest when we act with shared purpose. As we begin this remarkable anniversary year, we extend heartfelt thanks to every resident who contributes to our community’s vitality, safety, and sustainability. We’re excited for all that 2026 has in store and look forward to celebrating this milestone year together.

Steven L. Siemborski, Mayor
1470 Chagrin River Road
Gates Mills, OH  44040
(440) 423-4405   Ext. 122
mayor@gatesmillsvillage.com