Shaker Heights Council Approves K and W Ohio Construction's Single Family Home Project

The Shaker Heights City Council convened on August 25, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, with a significant focus on a proposed ordinance for the development of city-owned properties in the Moreland neighborhood.

The meeting began with the introduction of a proposal from K and W Ohio Construction LLC, which seeks to acquire five city-owned parcels for the construction of new single-family homes. The proposed purchase price for each property is set at $1, and the ordinance includes provisions for the disposition of city property without competitive bidding, declaring the matter an emergency to expedite the process.

Miss Thomas presented the proposal, highlighting the experience of K and W's principals, Waleed Alopsied and Jesse Carver, who collectively bring over 28 years of home building experience. Their past projects include luxury homes and extensive renovations throughout Cuyahoga County. Alopsied, familiar with Shaker Heights, previously worked on the waterproofing project for the Shaker Heights Community Center and Library.

The proposal outlines plans to build five homes on the parcels located on Cowan, Sutton, and Hilton roads, with anticipated prices ranging from $339,000 to $379,000. The homes are designed to be colonial-style, featuring approximately 2,000 square feet, three bedrooms, two and a half baths, full basements, and two-car garages. All designs will undergo review by the City Planning Commission and the Architectural Board of Review.

K and W plans to self-finance the project and expects to begin construction in late 2025, pending city approvals. The council was informed that the Neighborhood Economic Development Committee had previously reviewed the proposal, and while there was no quorum, the members present expressed support. The Finance Committee also approved the proposal on August 18.

In addition to the immediate five lots, the city aims to structure the development agreement to allow for the potential conveyance of additional vacant lots for future projects with K and W. This approach mirrors agreements made with previous developers.

The council members engaged in discussions regarding the proposal, with K and W representatives expressing their commitment to quality construction and community standards. The council ultimately voted to approve the ordinance under suspension of the rules, allowing K and W to proceed with preliminary plans and reducing the burden of maintaining vacant lots.

The meeting concluded with a clear path forward for the development project, marking a significant step in the city's efforts to enhance housing options in the Moreland neighborhood.