Neighbors Ask Council to Pause Sale of Cedar Road Green Space, Offer Alternatives

Residents of the neighborhood near Cedar Road told Cleveland Heights City Council on May 19 they oppose a proposed sale of a public green sliver between Delaware Drive and South Overlook Drive and asked the council to pause the transaction to engage the community in alternatives.

Speakers described the site as longstanding public green space and a neighborhood amenity. "The site has been public space for at least 77 years," said Helen Liggett, who said the parcel functions as a daily green space used by walkers and dog owners and provides a buffer from traffic. "It is not empty vacant land," she said, urging council not to approve the sale.

Several residents asked council to reconsider the decision-making process and increase outreach. "We need a process that is fair. We need a process that is transparent so that we understand where a purchase agreement comes from," said Diana Gurley, who asked council to pause the project and to work with neighbors on a development plan or a park proposal. Kellie Ovsek, a resident organizing petition signatures, asked council to "vote down the sale of the property and work with this neighborhood to accomplish so much more."

Financial questions were raised by residents opposing the sale. Philip Wadsworth, a Delaware Drive resident, said the proposed sale price of $40,000 for two properties appeared low compared with recent local sales and argued that property tax and income-tax revenue over time could favor retaining the land as public space. He also urged council to consider preserving the "integrity of the neighborhoods" and suggested alternatives such as a sign or a small park.

Council members did not vote on the property sale during the meeting; public comment closed and the item remained under discussion. Councilmember Cobb urged that, before approving any resolutions related to extending Blanche Avenue or other public land actions, the council schedule public hearings to ensure adequate notice and input from residents.

Residents said they plan to continue petitioning and to propose alternative uses, including a dog park or a community park developed in partnership with a nonprofit. Several speakers referenced a desire for clearer charter updates and committee representation in City committees; an official response from the law department in the meeting said revised charter text would be prepared in June for possible placement on the November ballot.

No formal council action to sell the Cedar Road parcel was recorded during the May 19 meeting; council members heard public comments and asked for additional procedural clarity and engagement.