Macedonia Council Meeting: Town Center Land Acquisition, Highland Road Demolition, and ODOT Intersection Upgrades

During the April 23, 2026, session, officials also authorized a major intersection improvement project at State Route 8 and Highland Road in partnership with ODOT. These actions represent a significant push by the city to revitalize key commercial corridors and address dilapidated properties. Macedonia Town Center Expansion Mayor Nick Molnar and the Macedonia City Council took a definitive step toward creating a centralized “Town Center” by passing Ordinance 31-2026. This legislation authorizes the city to purchase the real property located at 854 East Aurora Road, currently known as City Tire, for $350,000 . The property, situated at the critical corner of Valley View Road and Route 82, was appraised at $375,000 , allowing the city to acquire it below market value. Mayor Molnar noted that the property owner approached the city directly about the sale. “This is the most integral piece of the future growth committee’s plan for a town center,” Molnar said. He emphasized that by owning the land, the city gains control over development, aiming to attract “mom and pop” shops and diverse restaurants rather than more fast-food chains. The city plans to allow fire and police departments to use the existing structure for training before eventually seeking grants for demolition. Demolition of 311 East Highland Road Council moved to address what Mayor Molnar described as the “bane of his existence” by authorizing a notice of intent to demolish the structure at 311 East Highland Road . The property, a long-vacant eyesore, has been the subject of numerous police and fire department calls due to safety hazards, including collapsing balconies and a lack of fire suppression. City Law Director Mark Guidetti explained that while a bank foreclosure is currently active on the property, the city is moving forward with the 30-day notice required under codified ordinance 1385.11. The owners have not paid taxes since 2020 and owe more than the property’s $1.22 million appraised value to Berkshire Bank. This move signals the city’s intent to force the removal of the nuisance if the owners or the bank fail to remediate the hazards. ODOT Partnership for Route 8 Intersection Resolution 27-2026 was passed to finalize an agreement with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) for intersection improvements at State Route 8 and Highland Road . The project includes: Adding dedicated turn lanes at the Route 8 and Highland Road intersection. Upgrading traffic signals at Route 8 and South Bedford Road. Installing new sidewalks on South Bedford Road from Highland Road to Blue Jay Trail, providing a safe walking path in front of the high school. Mayor Molnar revealed that the city is in a “strong running” for a federal grant through Congresswoman Emilia Sykes’s office, requesting $2,256,557 to fund the improvements. ODOT will administer the construction and public bidding process. Legislative Briefs: Road Salt, NOPEC, and Opioid Settlements Road Salt: Council approved Ordinance 30-2026, allowing the city to participate in the annual ODOT road salt contract to secure competitive pricing for the 2026-2027 winter season. NOPEC Grant: The city accepted a $29,435 Energized Community Grant from NOPEC. The funds are earmarked for energy-efficient LED lighting at the Longwood Park ball fields. Opioid Settlement: Resolution 28-2026 authorized participation in a new one-time settlement with “remnant defendants,” including several pharmaceutical wholesalers and manufacturers. Community Updates and Recognition Mayor Molnar proclaimed May 3, 2026, as National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day , urging residents to display red lights outside their homes starting April 26 in honor of “Light the Night.” Additionally, Service Director Wilson reported that road paving is scheduled to begin in June for several streets, including Vernon, Harper, and Shepard Road.