After battling acute myeloid leukemia, Akron Councilman Rich Swirsky passed away on Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Councilman Swirsky was known for his active advocation for inclusivity, justice, and neighborhood stability.
Following the news of his death, Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan expressed his condolences, saying: “Long before he was Councilman Swirsky - I knew him simply as Rich. He was an active, engaged, and respected member of the Akron community his entire life. He made the people around him better, more conscientious, and more caring. His passion for the environment, for equality, and above all, for people, will leave a lasting impression on me personally, and on our entire community. I am grateful for the years we were able to work alongside each other and to make Ward 1, and all of Akron, a better place.”
“From championing the preservation of Highland Square’s historic and unique walkability and vibrancy, to relentlessly pushing our city to do more to protect our environment and our most vulnerable neighbors, Rich exemplified what it means to be a true public servant. There has never been, and will never be, another Rich Swirsky. He loved this city enough to always push us to do and be better, and for that we are grateful,” Mayor Horrigan continued.
“Rich was a uniting force on City Council,” Margo Sommerville, President of Akron City Council, added. “He often served as a bridge between factions while we were debating some of our most complex challenges. We will miss his voice of calm, reason, and compassion. We extend our deepest condolences to Rich’s family and friends.”
Swirsky was elected as the Ward 1 representative to Akron City Council in November 2013 as a democrat. He was elected again in 2015 and 2019. Before his demise, he served as the chair of Council’s Public Utilities & Green Committee, vice-chair of Housing & Neighborhood Assistance Committee, and as a member of the Planning & Economic Development, Public Service, and Public Safety Committees. He was also elected to serve in Council leadership as the President Pro Tem in January 2020.
Swirsky is known for co-sponsoring legislative items that enable more inclusivity, justice, and stability. These include the Akron Civil Rights Act (a comprehensive non-discrimination ordinance), the tree ordinance, and the creation of the Complete, Livable and Green Streets task force.