Meet the Mayor: Cleveland Mayor Kevin Brooks

What led you to municipal leadership? Was there a person or experience that inspired you to run for mayor? 

Bottom line, I love public service. I love serving people. But the single most impactful experience was in high school on my senior trip to Washington, DC. Our U.S. Senator let me sit in his office chair, behind his desk. He said, "This is your chair, not mine. You can do this job and one day I hope you will." It never left me. 

During your time as mayor, what accomplishment are you most proud of?

I am proud of many things, but I am most proud of our children and grandchildren, who grew up in all of this. They did not run for office, I did. But this is a family decision, because the entire family is under scrutiny.  And I am most proud that my wife, Kim, and I have maintained our faith, our family, and our future for almost 20 years.

What part of your service as mayor energizes you the most?

The people. People engaging with City Hall or the Mayor’s Office gives me energy.  Interacting with people is best.

What motivates you when things get challenging?

Things seem to always be challenging these days, but keeping our focus on family, and the families of Cleveland is the key.

What's one piece of leadership advice that's stuck with you?

Measure twice, cut once. My father and father-in-law both taught me this rule, and it still works today.

What do you love most about your town or city?

Again, the people. Our city of Cleveland is nicknamed "The City With Spirit,”  and our people are the reason.

If a person has only 24 hours to spend in your town or city, what should they do, see, and eat?

Welcome to Cleveland: Stay at one of our new hotels. Breakfast at Old Fort, lunch at Gardner’s Market, and dinner at Inman Social. Be sure not to miss the campus of Lee University and spend some time in the beautiful historic downtown. Enjoy your visit and come back soon!

What book, movie, or TV show are you enjoying right now?

I'm reading the new book by Lamar Alexander: The Education of a US Senator: From JFK to Trump.

What's something you're passionate about outside of work?

Kim and I love to travel. We have a new granddaughter in Ft. Worth, so we especially love Texas.

Do you have any hobbies that might surprise people?

I love languages. When we travel, I try to learn three key phrases in multiple languages.

What's your go-to comfort food?

It's old school-- Kim’s Mac & Cheese.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

Night Owl + Netflix

*Responses may have been lightly edited for clarity.