The Team Keeping Rocky River Building Strong

From replacing a water heater to major kitchen renovations and new construction, the Rocky River Building Department’s extensive credentials and problem-solving mindset are a valuable resource for the community. 

The Building Department preserves Rocky River’s pride
of place. 

During the last decade, the city has cultivated a team with all required certifications to operate independently — a distinction many cities no longer share as they consolidate or outsource inspections and plan reviews to third-party agencies.

“We can make projects go smoother and more efficiently, and we are an advocate for residents,” says Mayor Pamela Bobst. “We want to be facilitators and problem-solvers,” she adds, emphasizing the city’s priority to expedite construction and renovation efforts, ensure high-integrity contractors are on every job and act as a ready resource for answering questions and addressing concerns. “Our residents, businesses and property managers are investing in their homes and buildings because they want to stay here. It’s a measure of the community’s success.”

Overseeing the city’s turnkey Building Department is Ray Reich, the chief building official (CBO), zoning administrator and flood-plain administrator. “We’re tasked with providing a level of health and safety with construction projects, and ensuring zoning compliance,” he says.  

Facilitating inspections in-house allows for flexibility and convenience, Reich points out. “Keeping all the duties in-house keeps everyone’s projects flowing,” he says. 

Together, the Building Department team brings decades of private-sector experience and professional certification to every project.

Ray Reich

Building Commissioner 

With more than 30 years in construction and a decade serving Rocky River, Ray Reich leads a fully credentialed Building Department that blends technical precision with practical know-how. 

He worked for more than 20 years in the residential, development and light construction industry, which shaped his understanding of timelines, budgets and builder challenges. 

Under his leadership, the department has earned every state-required certification to conduct inspections and plan reviews in-house, ensuring faster service and consistent quality. 

Reich also oversees zoning and flood-plain administration, maintaining safety, code compliance and design integrity across the community. His approach reflects Rocky River’s broader infrastructure vision — responsive, resident-focused and built for long-term stability.

“We provide a level of insurance that you’re getting the best level of construction, safety and welfare possible — and we want projects to be successful,” he says. 

John Peters 

Property Maintenance Inspector

A longtime public servant with a background in safety oversight and community standards, John Peters helps keep Rocky River’s neighborhoods well-maintained, safe and welcoming. 

Peters began his municipal career in Fairview Park before joining Rocky River in 2017 as a rental and property maintenance inspector. 

Today, he focuses on ensuring homes and neighborhoods meet the city’s high expectations for upkeep and safety, from verifying working smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors to addressing exterior code violations. 

“People take pride in their properties in Rocky River,” he says, noting that most concerns come from residents who want to preserve that standard. 

Peters finds satisfaction in seeing improvements take shape and helping residents reach compliance. “It’s rewarding to watch a property transform and know the whole neighborhood benefits.”

Luke Markovich

Residential Building Official (RBO), Rental Inspector

Luke Markovich brings hands-on construction experience and a deep respect for Rocky River’s older homes to his role in the Building Department. A state-licensed residential building official, he oversees the city’s rental program, working directly with landlords to ensure compliance with fire and safety codes. Markovich also assists with property maintenance inspections. 

Having worked in the construction field for years, Markovich understands the challenges of maintaining historic housing stock while meeting modern standards. He’s often the friendly voice residents reach when they have questions about upkeep or city ordinances. 

“We get a lot of fulfillment from helping people,” he says. “Whether it’s answering a call or resolving an issue, it’s about keeping homes safe and neighborhoods looking their best.”

Aaron Hare

Residential Building Official (RBO), Electrical Safety Inspector (ESI)

A Rocky River native and lifelong electrician, Aaron Hare brings deep technical expertise and hometown pride to his role as residential building official and electrical safety inspector. Before joining the city more than three years ago, he spent over a decade in his family’s electrical business, gaining hands-on experience in residential and small-scale commercial work. 

Today, Hare oversees residential inspections and helps homeowners navigate projects ranging from minor upgrades to full additions. 

“We work for the homeowners, not the contractors,” he says. “Our goal is to make sure every project meets code so residents can feel confident and safe in their homes.” 

Hare values the department’s collaborative spirit, where in-house certification and trade experience keep projects moving smoothly and standards high.

Meg Moran

Administrative Assistant and Permit Technician

For Meg
Moran, serving in the Building Department feels like coming full circle. She grew up in Rocky River — her father was a principal at Kensington Elementary School for almost three decades — and she still runs into familiar faces at city hall. 

Moran manages the day-to-day flow of permits, inspections and resident inquiries. With a background in recreational therapy and real estate, she combines efficiency with a warm, personal touch. 

Known for her quick turnaround and clear communication, she guides residents and contractors through the process with care. “It’s about protecting our residents and helping projects move forward smoothly,” she says.

Dylan Minek

Planning & Community Development Administrator

Dylan Minek is the city’s go-to person for questions about property zoning. With a degree in urban and regional planning — and nearing completion of his master’s degree in urban planning and development — he’s a perfect fit for the job, which he’s held since January 2025.

Minek acts as a liaison between property owners and the planning commission and zoning boards. He helps ensure property owners have the required materials to move forward with their projects. 

“Part of my work is in the zoning ordinances, so people will call and ask for verifications of parcels to see if they can put their business there, what are the setbacks and what are the requirements to the zoning code for the parcel of land that they own,” Minek explains.

He adds that he enjoys applying what he’s learned in his degree programs to helping residents bring their building projects to fruition. 

Heritage Home Program

For residents looking to invest in home improvements for their houses that are at least 50 years old, the Heritage Home Program, offered in partnership with Cuyahoga County, offers low-interest loans. While the rate of 2% for 2025 ended on Dec. 31, a new, low-interest loan will be available in early 2026. The loans are offered through partner KeyBank and cover a range of projects, including plumbing and electrical updates, HVAC and kitchen and bathroom renovations, to help residents maintain their older homes. For more information, visit heritagehomeprogram.org.