Members reported the reuse‑it center project secured significant private donations and signed a lease for a warehouse at 549 North Ohio, where the group plans to operate an online‑first reuse store focused on building materials and hardware.
Project volunteers said the building provides roughly 11,700 square feet, including about 2,000 square feet of office space, and that staff intend to start with e‑commerce operations before adding on‑site retail. Volunteers and staff said several private donors provided substantial funds to launch the effort and that they signed a lease to reserve the building while staff work through zoning questions.
City staff noted the property is in an E‑1 zone that generally allows the proposed use, but an overlay zone (North Ohio gateway overlay) imposes additional restrictions; staff said the reuse center may fall under a “scrap dealer” classification in the overlay, which could trigger additional permitting or require a conditional use permit. Staff and volunteers said they will work with city planning staff to resolve the zoning classification and obtain any necessary approvals.
Committee members praised the progress but emphasized that staff and organizers must address zoning and any permit requirements before retail operations begin. No formal committee action was required; volunteers will continue to work with staff on zoning and opening plans.