Council Advances John Carroll University CRA application after updated revenue terms

University Heights City Council voted Monday to advance John Carroll University’s Community Reinvestment Area (CRA) application, approving an updated exhibit and directing staff to forward the application and supporting materials to the school district for the required notice period.

The vote followed discussion of updated percentage terms and estimates of the revenue the city could receive if the retail parcel becomes taxable. Jeremiah Swittle, assistant vice president of facilities and auxiliary services at John Carroll University, told the council the university expects to break ground in May and said, “We really honor and cherish our commitment to the community at University Heights and the partnership with the city and city administration.”

Council members and staff discussed multiple numbers during debate, including the percentage used in the exhibit, estimates of the 15-year abatement amount, and projected income‑tax benefits from new jobs at the site. Finance Director Steve Kennedy noted parcels owned by John Carroll are currently tax exempt and that only the retail portion of the planned development would become taxable. Councilmember Stumpf estimated the retail portion could generate roughly $37,000 to $65,000 in annual income‑tax receipts; Councilmember Cooney observed the city would move from receiving little or no property tax on those parcels to receiving property taxes if the retail parcel is taxable.

Council members also said they appreciated John Carroll’s adjustments to the application. Mackenzie, managing director at Hydramo Companies (working with the university), said the university expects additional retail build‑out costs and that tax incentives can help attract tenants that “benefit the community.” The council voted to approve the motion to proceed; the item will return to the council agenda for formal approval of the CRA agreement at the first council meeting in May, after the school board notice period and any required school board review.

The action does not finalize a tax‑abatement contract; it advances the procedural steps required under the statute cited in the application packet. Councilmembers who spoke emphasized both the potential new income tax revenue and their concern about long‑term impacts on city revenue and city capital priorities. The vote to advance the application was recorded by roll call and passed.