Mike Dudley Sr. has been involved in public service from 2007 – 2021, demonstrating a strong dedication to the community. His resolve, commitment, and passion for service have played a critical role in his ability to represent and lead the community effectively.
Mike relocated to Garfield Heights in 1996, Mike has always felt a deep connection to the city. His commitment to public service was shaped during his time in the United States Army. He served as a Staff Sergeant on active duty, an experience that honed his leadership, discipline, and dedication.
Upon returning home, Mike dedicated himself to his community. As a former City Council President Pro-Tem, Mike distinguished himself as a committed public servant, serving on and chairing multiple committees including the Legislative Committee, Recreation Committee, and Ways & Means Committee.
Throughout his tenure, he also served as the City Council Liaison to both the Garfield Heights City School District and the Cleveland Metropolitan School Districts. As a liaison, he was committed to open communication and problem-solving, helping constituents with their concerns and resolving issues with determination and tenacity.
Mike’s commitment to fiscal responsibility was demonstrated during his tenure when Garfield Heights successfully navigated its way out of a fiscal emergency.
His community involvement is extensive. Mike has been a flag bearer in the Garfield Heights Memorial Day Parade, organized programs for needy children, and provided holiday meals to seniors since 2007. He also currently sits on the Cleveland Clinic Marymount Board of Trustees and has since November 2020, further showcasing his commitment to his city and its residents.
Throughout his career in public service, Mike Dudley Sr.’s mission has been to build a government that truly reflects the diversity of the community it serves, address safety concerns, create family-oriented recreational programs, ensure fair employment opportunities for all Garfield Heights residents, and restore community workshop programs to assist those in need.
Mike Dudley Sr. is a dedicated public servant who has always held the belief that businesses, just like individuals, must be responsible members of the community. He has spent his career working tirelessly to ensure that the businesses in Garfield Heights contribute positively to the area, and that they are held accountable when they don’t.
Mike Dudley Sr. believes in the importance of a thriving local economy and understands that businesses play a key role in this. However, he also firmly believes that every business must respect and uphold the values and standards of our community. It’s this balance of supporting business growth while preserving community integrity that defines his approach.
Well-maintained streets are a testament to our thriving homes and vibrant community. Mike Dudley Sr. is unwavering in his pursuit of councilmember accountability.
Mike Dudley Sr. is more than a public servant; he’s a community member, a neighbor, and a friend. In his approach to public service, Mike Dudley Sr. truly embodies the sentiment, ‘I’ll work for you, because your voice matters.’
Committees Served
- Served as Garfield Heights City Council President Pro-Tem
- Way & Means Committee (Chair)
- Finance & Audit Committee
- Safety Committee
- Building Committee
- Service & Transportation Committee
- Union Delegate Committee
- Council School Liaison to Garfield School District and CMSD Committee
- Legislative Committee (Former Chair)
- Recreation Committee (Former Chair)
- Landfill Committee
- Board of Control Committee
- Safety Committee (Former Member)
- Finance & Audit Committee (Former Member)
- Recreation Committee (Former Member)
- Former Board Member of ESOP Empowering Strengthening Ohio People where he battled the foreclosure crisis.
Please note that Mike Dudley Sr. has not only served on these committees but in several cases also held leadership positions as chair, demonstrating his commitment and contribution to various aspects of city governance.
Programs Sponsored by Mike Dudley Sr. and CFABC
As the President of Citzens for a Better Community (CFABC), Mike Dudley Sr. has played a pivotal role in organizing and supporting numerous programs in Garfield Heights. These programs, both through CFABC and his personal efforts, showcase his commitment to improving the lives of local residents:
- (16) Garfield Heights Annual Black History Programs – A long-standing tradition led by CFABC, celebrating African American heritage and fostering community unity.
- (10) Annual St. Timothy’s Seniors Holiday Dinners – Providing joy and warm meals to senior citizens during the holiday season, ensuring they feel valued and supported.
- (2) Annual Christmas Toys for Needy Children Programs – A CFABC initiative to bring holiday cheer to children in need, demonstrating the organization’s dedication to serving vulnerable populations.
- (3) Annual Keeping Kids Safe Halloween Parties – CFABC sponsors these safe, fun-filled Halloween events to ensure that children can enjoy the holiday in a secure environment.
- (2) Garfield Heights Stop The Violence Programs – These programs, spearheaded by CFABC, aim to address and reduce violence within the community, focusing on education and prevention.
In addition to these core initiatives, Mike is known for his personal contributions to the community, highlighting his dedication to helping Garfield Heights residents. Through both his leadership of CFABC and his individual efforts, Mike Dudley Sr. continues to make a lasting impact on the community.