Martin Sweeney

Serving the city of Brooklyn and the city of Cleveland-portions of Ward 3, Ward 12, Ward 13, Ward 14, Ward 16, and all of Ward 11 and Ward 15.

Born and raised in Cleveland, Martin J. Sweeney is a native son who understands and loves Cuyahoga County. Councilman Sweeney has earned a reputation as a hands-on, roll-up-his-sleeves public servant who favors direct contact with constituents.
Mr. Sweeney was appointed to the County Council in January 2021 and was duly elected to a full 4-year term on November 8, 2022, representing the residents of District 3. District 3 encompasses the City of Brooklyn, the Village of Linndale and a number of Westside wards and precincts in the City of Cleveland. His focus has always been and remains on economic development, health and human services, and public works to improve all the lives of those living in Cuyahoga County. Councilman Sweeney serves as the Vice Chair of the Heath, Human Services & Aging Committee and is also a member of the Human Resources, Appointments & Equity Committee, the Public Works, Procurement & Contracting Committee, and the Council Operations, Intergovernmental Relations & Public Transportation Committee.
Prior to his time on Cuyahoga County Council, Martin served as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, serving the State’s District 14. He was the Ranking Member on the Higher Education and Workforce Development Committee. Prior to his time in the State Legislature, Councilman Sweeney served 18 years on Cleveland City Council, where he represented Ward 16 and was later unanimously elected by his peers as Cleveland City Council President. He was deeply involved in the redevelopment of downtown, including the Convention Center and Medical Mart, now known as the Global Center, a downtown urban casino, new construction in the historic Flats, and an expansion of Cleveland State University including dormitories, a student center, and a K-12 school on campus.
A proud graduate of St. Ignatius High School, Martin earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from Cleveland State University. He was a member of the legendary 1986 CSU basketball team that improbably advanced to the Sweet 16 Round of the NCAA Tournament, in the process capturing the heart of a city.
Sweeney graduated from the prestigious Leadership Cleveland Class of 2004, which brings together local community leaders from all walks of life. He is also a graduate of the Harvard Program for Leadership Development and a recipient of the Cleveland State University's 2013 Distinguished Alumni Award for Community Service.

The Editorial Board of The Plain Dealer and cleveland.com endorsed Martin J. Sweeney and stated:
“Our endorsement goes to Sweeney, who says he will act transparently to tackle issues that include paying for a new jail, the fate of the aging Justice Center and conflicts over the county’s legal representation.
Democratic voters in District 3 should re-elect Martin J. Sweeney in the May 5 primary. No Republican is running for this seat.”

Martin Sweeney submitting his candidacy papers.

Martin Sweeney during a St. Patrick Day Celebration in Cleveland.

Martin J. Sweeney with his family

He was a member of the legendary 1986 CSU basketball team that improbably advanced to the Sweet 16 Round of the NCAA Tournament, in the process capturing the heart of a city.

Martin Sweeney with the County Executive Chris Ronayne, Ohio Congresswoman Rose Sweeney, and others.