Cleveland Council Approves Sale of Property to Rust Belt Riders for Composting Facility

In a recent meeting of the Cleveland City Council, significant discussions centered around the future of Rust Belt Riders Composting LLC, a local company focused on sustainable waste management. The council voted to repeal a previous ordinance that would have established a ground lease for Rust Belt Riders and instead approved a plan to sell the property outright for $790,000. This decision is expected to facilitate the company's expansion and improve its financial viability.

Rust Belt Riders had initially planned to lease the property located at East 79th Street, investing approximately $3.5 million to develop a new composting facility. This project was anticipated to retain 30 jobs and create an additional 15 positions. However, as the company sought financing, it became clear that owning the property outright would be necessary to secure loans at favorable rates. The council's decision to sell the property allows Rust Belt Riders to access essential grant funding and proceed with their development plans.

During the meeting, council members expressed concerns about potential environmental remediation costs associated with the property, which could impact the sale price. While the appraised value is set at $790,000, the council acknowledged that any necessary cleanup could reduce the effective sale price. Rust Belt Riders representatives assured the council that their construction plans would minimize excavation, thereby potentially lowering remediation expenses.

In addition to the Rust Belt Riders discussion, the council also addressed other ordinances, including amendments related to energy efficiency projects in the Northeast Ohio Advanced Energy District and a forgivable loan agreement to support economic development in Ward 14. These initiatives reflect the council's ongoing commitment to enhancing community resources and supporting local businesses.

The outcomes of this meeting highlight the city council's proactive approach to fostering sustainable practices and economic growth within Cleveland, ensuring that local businesses can thrive while addressing environmental concerns. As Rust Belt Riders moves forward with its plans, the community can expect to see expanded composting services and job opportunities in the near future.