Mayor Paul Marnecheck has reinstated the position of Director of Public Safety for the City of North Royalton. The duties of the position have been undertaken by the Mayor over the past several years; but in the past, Mayors have taken the option to relinquish those duties to the new position. The last time the City had the position of Director of Public Safety was prior to 2020, under then-Mayor Bob Stefanik.
Marnecheck introduced legislation in May to repeal Section 230.06 of the City’s codified ordinances, which establishes the duties of the Director of Public Safety as those listed under the position of Mayor. The ordinance then re-established Chapter 238, which shifts those duties and responsibilities to the position of Director of Public Safety. That ordinance was unanimously adopted by Council.
Marnecheck asked for a special meeting to take place on July 2, when he introduced legislation to confirm his appointment of James M. Chura to serve as the City’s Safety Director. The measure passed 6-0. Ward 3 Council Rep Sarah Wojslaw was absent. The position will be part-time, 25 to 30 hours a week at an hourly rate of $45. The bible that Chura placed his hands on while being sworn in was one that has had permanent residency in City Hall. That bible happened to be presented to Mayor Harry Loder in December 1975, and was a bi-centennial bible. More meaningful, as this country is celebrating its 250th anniversary.
According to his resume, Chura brings close to forty years of law enforcement experience. He served the Cleveland Police Division since 1987, with positions ranging from Patrolman, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain to Commander. He also served on the Gates Mills Police Department, as Student Resource Officer for Saint Francis of Assisi School and Commissioner for the City of Cleveland Community Police Commission. He holds a Bachelor degree in Criminal Justice from Kent State University.
“It will be challenging to learn other aspects with Fire and EMS, but I am looking forward to this new role as another outlet to serve and protect. North Royalton has always been one of the safest cities in the state, and I would like the opportunity to make it even safer by working with the Police Chief, Fire Chief, staff and residents,” Chura said.
“One of the strongest things Safety Director Chura brings is credibility,” stated Mayor Marnecheck. “During a 30+ year public safety career with the Cleveland Police Department, he has served in several units including The Bureau of Special Investigations, Internal Affairs, Crime Scene and Records Unit and Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Unit. His service continues, as he currently is a member of the Cleveland Community Police Commission, representing the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 8. He is currently performing a comprehensive review of past actions and will play an integral role during bargaining contract negotiations and the long-term planning for our Police and Fire Departments.”
By GLORIA PLEVA KACIK
Contributing Writer
