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Neighbors oppose proposed tactical training center at Eastwood Avenue
Summary
Several residents urged the council to reject or more thoroughly vet a proposed private tactical training center at the former Eastwood pool site, citing noise, safety, property‑value loss and concerns about vetting/membership and activities such as archery and canine training.
Multiple speakers used the public‑comment period at the Akron City Council meeting to oppose a proposed tactical training center at 1928 Eastwood Avenue, saying the facility would change neighborhood character, reduce property values and raise safety concerns for adjacent park trails.
A resident who identified herself as Christine told the council the proposal would alter the "energy" of her walkable neighborhood and likened the plan to "Topgolf for gun lovers," saying the private, membership‑style facility is being presented as a public utility. She asked the council for follow‑up and said she fears the project’s sights, sounds and smells will disturb neighbors.
Paula Keel, a retired Akron public school teacher who said she has lived near the former Eastwood pool for 45 years, raised specific safety questions about proposed features: whether canine training would produce disruptive barking, how an obstacle course would affect neighbors and whether an archery range could pose a hazard to hikers on the Pinewoods Trail that borders the site.
Melissa Riley, a long‑time homeowner in the area, said she is "very concerned" about a projected 5–15% decline in home values should the facility be built, and said she has invested heavily in her property over 20 years.
Speakers also asked whether individual members would be vetted, whether background checks or security would be required and whether teams using the facility would be subject to restrictions. One speaker cited material on a partner organization's website (Achilles Heel Tactical) and said promotional videos showing camouflaged participants and weapons were disturbing.
No ordinance or vote on the tactical training center occurred at the meeting. Several council members heard commenters’ concerns; the issue remains in the public‑comment and committee process until a formal application or council referral appears on the docket.
