Council agrees to take back consolidated lot 9444, authorizes grant applications for parking and site remediation

The Medina finance committee voted to accept transfer of consolidated parcel 9444 from the Medina City Investment/Development Corporation back to the city and authorized staff to pursue state grant funding to support a planned public parking renovation.

Kimberly (staff) told the committee the Development Corporation consolidated three parcels into parcel 9444 via prior ordinance and is prepared to transfer the consolidated lot back to the city to support economic development tied to a nearby hotel project. Staff described a proposed parking renovation that would increase spaces from roughly 40 to 81 (77 regular, four ADA), add permanent lighting and landscaping and include an on‑site stormwater retention basin to address drainage problems. An initial construction estimate discussed in the meeting was about $400,000; staff cautioned that if the city takes over the project and prevailing‑wage rules apply that could add roughly 20–30% to costs.

To help cover costs, staff asked council to authorize two state grant applications: an ODOD building demolition/site revitalization grant (application deadline Nov. 19) and a Brownfield remediation grant (deadline Dec. 5, larger program). Kimberly reported review of city fund balances and suggested using available capital funds for match if needed while emphasizing the city will pursue grant dollars to reduce the local share. “We have a good case for it,” Kimberly said, citing the project’s ability to support a hotel investment and improve stormwater issues.

Council approved accepting the parcel back into city ownership with an emergency clause and also authorized staff to apply for both grants. Council asked staff to follow up with legal and with the CIC and to return with deed and funding details; the motion included direction that staff confirm deed preparation and how the transfer timing affects grant eligibility.