City Council Approves Changes for $67M Auditorium Project Funding Strategy

In a recent Joint Board of Review meeting held on July 18, 2025, city officials and board members discussed significant developments regarding a major construction project aimed at enhancing educational facilities in Akron. The meeting highlighted the financial aspects and design considerations of the project, which is projected to cost approximately $67 million, including demolition of existing structures.

City officials, including Ms. Falk and Mayor Malik, addressed the need for adjustments to the funding agreement to ensure that all available resources could be allocated effectively to cover potential cost overruns and necessary changes during construction. The project is primarily funded through a combination of federal and local sources, including $40 million from COPS (Community Oriented Policing Services) and $15 million from ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) funds.

A key point of discussion was the impact of value engineering on the overall project cost. While the initial estimate stood at $67 million, officials indicated that ongoing evaluations could potentially reduce this figure. For instance, modifications to the auditorium design, such as downsizing the seating capacity, have already resulted in savings of approximately $801,000. However, the final cost with these adjustments has yet to be determined.

The meeting also addressed community concerns regarding the auditorium's capacity and scheduling. Currently, the largest high school auditoriums in the district accommodate around 750 seats, which has raised questions about the adequacy of space for larger events. Officials noted that while the Miller South auditorium has a capacity of 940, parking remains a significant issue at that location. Plans are in place to enhance parking facilities at the new site to accommodate increased attendance.

As the project progresses, the urgency to finalize agreements and move forward was emphasized, particularly in light of rising construction costs. The officials expressed a desire to avoid delays that could lead to increased expenses, highlighting the importance of timely decision-making.

In conclusion, the Joint Board of Review meeting underscored the complexities involved in the construction project, from financial management to community needs. As discussions continue, stakeholders remain focused on ensuring that the project meets educational standards while remaining within budgetary constraints. Future meetings will likely address unresolved issues and provide updates on the project's status.