Multiple shootings, fights prompt action against business
Akron City Council unanimously opposed the renewal of a liquor license for a West Market Street establishment plagued by violence and disturbances. The business at West Market has experienced significant safety issues since new management took over in April.
According to Councilman Bolden, the location had 11 fights, one shooting, and four noise violations in 2024. Since April when new management began operations, incidents have escalated dramatically with four shootings including one death, seven fights, and three parking complaints.
Councilman Bolden emphasized the impact on nearby businesses trying to grow their operations. A new business is scheduled to open Wednesday night in the valley area.
The council passed the resolution opposing the liquor license renewal with a 13-0 vote. The matter will go before the state Division of Liquor Control.
Public Calls for Justice Continue in Police Shooting Case
Speakers demand accountability after eight months without action
Community members again called for justice during Monday’s public comment period, marking eight months since a November police shooting. Two speakers addressed the ongoing case during the meeting.
The first speaker noted the extended time without resolution while the officer remains on paid administrative leave. The speaker questioned why taxpayer funds continue supporting the officer’s salary while an investigation proceeds through Mahoning County.
A second speaker drew parallels between recent law enforcement deaths in Lorain and local cases, calling for equal treatment of all victims regardless of whether they wear uniforms. The speaker emphasized that justice should not be selective and demanded the council take action rather than remain silent.
Both speakers called for transparency and accountability in the ongoing investigation.
Council Approves Multiple Infrastructure and Development Projects
Lead abatement, home repairs, and sidewalk programs move forward
Akron City Council approved several infrastructure and community development initiatives during Monday’s meeting. The council passed ordinances authorizing multiple programs aimed at improving housing and neighborhood conditions.
A $560,000 lead abatement program received approval, continuing the city’s efforts to reduce lead exposure in homes through HUD and CDBG funding. The program will contract with Rebuilding Together Northeast Ohio.
The council also approved a minor home repair program for senior citizens and disabled homeowners, with repairs not exceeding $10,000 per property. The program is expected to assist 50 to 70 homes citywide.
Two sidewalk assessment programs from 2023 and 2024 were approved, covering 197 addresses from 2023 and 264 addresses from 2024. The programs address concrete sidewalk repairs, driveway approaches, and curb improvements throughout the city.
The council authorized $250 million for water treatment supplies, purchasing activated carbon for the city’s Lake Rockwell water supply treatment.
North Main Street Project Faces Opposition from Ward Representative
$16 million improvement plan passes despite councilman’s concerns
A $16 million North Main Street improvement project advanced despite opposition from the area’s council representative. The project will improve North Main Street between Martin Luther King Boulevard and the northern corporate limit.
Councilman Kammer voted against the project, citing concerns about traffic congestion from the proposed single-lane design. He expressed worry that drivers would cut through residential neighborhoods to avoid congestion on the main corridor.
Despite requesting two lanes instead of one, Kammer’s concerns were not addressed in the final design. The project includes resurfacing, sidewalk improvements, water main work, and tree planting.
The ordinance passed 12-1, with Kammer casting the sole opposing vote.
Council Addresses Cannabis Business Concerns
Highland Square dispensary proposal raises traffic and parking issues
A Highland Square resident raised concerns about a proposed cannabis dispensary at West Market Street during public comment. The speaker outlined multiple issues with the dual-purpose dispensary planned for the area.
Traffic concerns center on the building’s access via Dodge Avenue despite having a West Market Street address. With 29 parking spaces serving potentially 50-150 clients per hour during peak times, parking availability could become problematic.
The speaker also raised safety concerns about emergency response times and potential impacts on property values. Real estate estimates suggest home values could drop 3-5% in the first year.
Questions remain about employee parking and enforcement of street parking regulations during snow emergencies.
Night Out Against Crime Scheduled for Tuesday
Events planned in all 10 wards across the city
Councilwoman Connor announced that Night Out Against Crime will take place Tuesday, August 5, with events in all 10 city wards. The free, family-friendly events aim to build relationships between police and community members.
The events coincide with Akron Public Schools’ Backpack Adventure, which Connor noted is a two-day event. She encouraged families to attend Night Out on Tuesday and Backpack Adventure on Wednesday.
Night Out Against Crime is a national initiative that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood safety. The events typically feature activities for children, free food, and opportunities to meet local officers and neighbors.
Council Enters August Recess
Regular meetings resume after summer break
City Council will not hold regular meetings during August, entering its annual summer recess. Council President Sommerville emphasized that council members remain available and continue working on city business during the break.
Committee meetings and other council activities continue during the recess period, with members still answering phones and emails. Regular meetings will resume in September.
The recess follows the council’s traditional schedule, which also includes breaks during the last two weeks of December and when national holidays fall on Mondays.
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