I was told the optimum pH level is 8.2 ppm. I was also told that if they go
higher, it's not really a problem, that the fish like it. I'm hovering
around 9.0 ppm. Is this too high?

9.0 is too high

8.2~8.4 is more normal whats your alk? either way its time for a waterchange and to find
out what is getting it so high.

--
Richard Reynolds