Declining population and incomes have emptied the coffers and cut the flow of new revenue making it difficult for the City of East Cleveland to maintain services and do business. The city is fighting to stay financially solvent. Some, including city leaders and State Auditor Dave Yost, believe the only way out is to merge the city with its neighbor, Cleveland. Not everyone is convinced that's the right path.
Mayor Gary Norton, City of East Cleveland
Tom Wheeler, President, East Cleveland City Council
Nick Castele, Ideastream, Reporter