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Neighbors raise litter, rodent and safety concerns over proposed Taco Bell rebuild

Planning and Economic Development Committee, City of Akron · November 17, 2025

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Summary

A Taco Bell rebuild at 414 E. Exchange St. drew extended public comment from a nearby homeowner who cited trash, rodents, parking overflow and emergency‑access worries; project team said it will work with residents on operational concerns. The committee will revisit the item at 5:00 p.m.

Planning staff presented a conditional‑use request to demolish and rebuild the Taco Bell at 414 East Exchange Street with a slightly smaller building footprint and drive‑through reconfiguration.

Josh Graber, architect with GPD Group and the project contact, said the team has discussed operational concerns raised previously, including trash, debris, noise and hours, and that they will continue to work with neighbors and the operator to mitigate issues.

Roberta Rogers, who lives one house from the site, delivered detailed opposition describing persistent litter and a rodent problem near her home: "My concerns are, the trash. It's really a health concern," she said, adding that trash from the drive‑through and nearby businesses accumulates along Kern Avenue and that the relocated dumpster could worsen the problem. Rogers also cited parking overflow that could block a narrow street and impede emergency vehicles.

Councilmember Hannah noted those concerns and questioned how a redesigned site would provide an "escape lane" for vehicles; a city representative clarified that the particular second‑lane requirement referenced in the discussion has not been enacted and does not apply to this redevelopment. Planning staff and the planning commission recommended approval subject to conditions. The committee did not vote Monday and will hear the item again at 5:00 p.m.