Tallmadge City Council on May 22 left companion ordinances in second reading that would remove 12 Southwest Avenue from the city’s Recognized Heritage Structures list and authorize demolition of the blighted structure using matching grant funds.

Councilwoman Tracy Pletcher opened the Planning and Zoning items, identifying Ordinance 2025-551 as a second-reading measure to amend the heritage structure list and noting a companion ordinance, 2025-56, to authorize demolition. The public hearing for the zoning matter was scheduled for June 12.

Mayor Kilway said the city will apply for a matching grant through the Summit County Land Reutilization Corporation Community Development Matching Grant Fund to cover half the demolition cost. “It is approximately a little over $9,000 that we'll receive, to pay for 50% of the demolition of that building,” the mayor said.

Why it matters: Removing a property from the heritage list clears a regulatory step required before demolition. The grant would reduce the city’s net outlay for demolition of a structure the administration described as blighted.

Discussion vs. decision: Council did not approve demolition at the May 22 meeting; both ordinances were left for further readings and a public hearing is scheduled for June 12. The law director recommended keeping the measures companion ordinances.

Next steps: The items will return to council for additional readings and the scheduled public hearing on June 12, 2025. If council approves the demolition ordinance and the grant application is successful, the city would proceed with arrangements under its demolition program.