Energy Modernization for Cleveland Fire and EMS Facilities
Cleveland is moving forward with a major plan to modernize energy efficiency and infrastructure at 26 different Fire and Emergency Medical Service facilities. Through emergency ordinance 1322-2026, the city aims to implement a series of energy conservation measures designed to upgrade aging systems and reduce long-term operational costs for these mission-critical public safety buildings.
What's in the file
The ordinance authorizes a design-build approach to modernize the city's public safety infrastructure. Based on a September 16, 2026, Energy Conservation Report, the project focuses on improving resiliency and efficiency across 26 specific locations, including various fire stations, EMS stations, and the Fire Academy.
Key provisions of the ordinance include:
- Authorizing the Director of Capital Projects to enter into guaranteed energy saving performance contracts with Leopardo Energy, LLC, for a guaranteed maximum price of $100,000,000.
- Authorizing an amendment to the existing contract with NV5 Consultants, Inc., to serve as the owner’s representative for the project.
- Authorizing the Director of Public Works to enter into maintenance agreements for necessary labor and materials to maintain or repair upgraded systems for a term of up to 20 years or the length of the financing agreements, whichever is greater.
- Authorizing the Director of Finance to enter into installment payment contracts to fund the improvements.
The proposed upgrades include a wide range of improvements to building systems, such as:
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems
- Building automation and electrical services
- Roofing replacements and façade repairs
- LED lighting upgrades and interior renovations
- Window and door replacements
- Implementation of renewable energy solutions
- Plumbing system improvements and building additions
Who may be affected
- Divisions of Fire and Emergency Medical Service: These departments will receive modernized facilities with improved reliability and energy efficiency.
- Leopardo Energy, LLC: Designated to design, install, and implement the energy conservation project.
- NV5 Consultants, Inc.: Will continue serving as the city's owner's representative.
- Department of Public Safety: The overarching department managing these facilities.
Status and timeline
The ordinance is currently in the following stage:
- 2026-10-23: The emergency ordinance was introduced for its first reading.
What to watch next
The record indicates the ordinance is currently at the "First Reading" stage in City Council.
Residents can verify all details of this legislation by reviewing the official record for File No. 1322-2026 on the Cleveland City Council website.
Source record
- File
- 1322-2026
- Type
- Emergency Ordinance
- Status
- First Reading
- Committee
- City Council
- Introduced
- October 22, 2026
Official documents
- 1322-2026-Design Build w Leopardo for fire and EMS facilities an other Ks
- 1322-2026-A File - Design Build w Leopardo for fire and EMS facilities an other Ks
- 1322-2026-Legislative Summary REVISED-FINAL Fire and EMS Performance-Based Design-Build 10.15 (1)
- 1322-2026 Fire and EMS Performance-Based Design-Build Project Description 2026.10.05