Elyria City Council on July 7 passed an ordinance transferring city‑owned land at West and Third Avenue to the Elyria Community Improvement Corporation (CIC), clearing the way for a sale to developer Steve McQuillan and his proposal to build a four‑unit apartment building that recalls the historic Rifie Mansion.

Mayor Kevin A. Brubaker introduced the item and said the project would recreate the mansion’s form while meeting modern standards. “He plans on recreating or rebuilding the Rifie Mansion,” the mayor said when introducing Mr. McQuillan. McQuillan told council he intends four suites: two on the first floor (potentially including basement space), two on the second floor and a combined third/second floor space incorporating a tower feature.

McQuillan said he would finance the project himself without bank loans, estimated the construction cost in the $1.2 million to $1.5 million range, and said he may consider condominiums but is prepared to operate the building as market‑rate rentals. “I think it’ll be something in that range, 1.2 maybe to 1,500,000,” he told council.

Council members viewed a 3‑D model at a CIC meeting; Councilwoman Mitchell and others praised McQuillan’s preservation background and encouraged the project. The ordinance was passed under suspension and declared an emergency.

The mayor and McQuillan said the project team is pursuing light‑frame construction under 5,000 square feet to limit some regulatory requirements, and McQuillan said he had preliminary estimates for Cleveland sandstone and that architects were finalizing plans. He invited council and the public to a Saturday open house and said he expected construction could begin quickly, possibly in about six months, subject to permitting and final design.

The transfer ordinance (2025‑106) enables CIC to acquire the parcel for resale; council did not record a detailed purchase price in the public remarks. McQuillan said he had been in regular contact with city staff and the CIC and that he hopes the finished building will add rental options downtown.