Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Downtown Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Heath EDC reviews Catalyst Commercial findings, updates on downtown projects and recent property closing
Summary
The Heath EDC revisited a March work session with consultant Jason Klonch of Catalyst Commercial, discussed a "village commercial" approach for the Downtown Overlay District, and reported on project updates including finalizing design for the 18 80 project, the May closing of 305 Lawrence and planned walk-throughs and repairs.
At the May 20 meeting of the Heath Municipal Board of Commissioners and Economic Development Corporation, staff reviewed takeaways from a March 24 work session with Jason Klonch of Catalyst Commercial and gave updates on current EDC projects.
Suzanne, a city staff member, summarized Catalyst Commercial's recommendations, saying the board sought an outside point of view on strategy for the Downtown Overlay District, including the 20 undeveloped acres in the reserve and contiguous acreage under contract. Jason Klonch, Catalyst Commercial, told members he classified the desired outcome as "village commercial," a compact mix of upscale retail and dining intended to be walkable and compatible with the city's design objectives.
"We've done a very good job of putting the cat in the cage with our land acquisition and our ordinance, implementation," Klonch said, praising the city's consolidated ownership and regulatory guardrails. He recommended a deeper market analysis, a phased infrastructure plan and targeted requests for proposals to attract strategic end users, while advising caution and patience in implementation.
Staff and board members discussed other project updates. The 18 80 project is finalizing an agreement with a design group and hardening its concept, Suzanne said. The EDC closed on 305 Lawrence on May 15; staff reported a new roof had been installed and that the buyer/owner had completed painting, water remediation, gutter and flashing repairs. Suzanne said Precision Roofing and others contributed to post-close repairs.
Representatives said Algiers (a prospective tenant) is examining a co-share or alternate location in Heath but remains interested. Standard Service (a contractor engaged on site plans) provided an update that it had acknowledged receipt of requested drawings related to trees and the proposed pickleball court and would follow up when ready. Staff also plans a post-close walk-through with Kimberly Horn and a team of architects to explore repurposing opportunities at 305 Lawrence.
No formal action was taken on the Catalyst recommendations at the May 20 meeting; Jason Klonch said he is available to assist with a market study and re-engage after the June election.
