How the "Yes" Strategy is Powering Solon's Future

Mayor Eddy Kraus explains how a “yes to progress” mindset, strong schools and tight partnerships are driving Solon’s growth.

Q: Solon is in the midst of a lot of economic development, including the potential mixed-use development and new businesses. As Solon's mayor, how do you make sure the city continues to thrive?

A: When I first got here nine years ago, my goal was to say yes to business, yes to progress, yes to development ... to start out with “yes” and then work on the details. You have got to have good partners and a fully engaged team. Whether it’s a real estate deal, a trail, a park, a winery, everyone has to give time, resources and staff. When that happens, you start to see results.

Q: How do Solon’s venerated public schools play into those partnerships that benefit the whole team?

A: The schools have set the bar of excellence for all of us — for me as mayor, for our businesses, for everything that we do. There’s no compromising with the education and with our students. The administration, teachers, students, parents — it’s a whole ecosystem ... [People] move into our community for the schools. They want the best education for their children.

Q: Could you elaborate on this shared value of excellence that is helping to drive the city’s future?

A: I have a staff that believes in [Solon’s future] strongly and executes our visions. The other great partner is our City Council. All seven elected officials are part of our team. We include our council in everything we do, because you have to have that strong relationship between the administration and City Council. We don’t always agree on everything, but they’re true partners in everything we do.