Akron’s City Council took decisive action on Tuesday, approving two contracts that will fund the demolition of eleven condemned commercial properties across the city. The total budget of $312,770 reflects the city’s commitment to public safety and responsible code enforcement.
Contracts and Costs
The council awarded a $213,050 contract to Ray Bertolini Trucking Co. to demolish five of the sites, and a $99,720 contract to Butcher & Son Excavating for the remaining six. Both firms are local contractors with experience in large‑scale demolition projects.
Why the Demolitions Are Needed
Each of the eleven buildings was individually condemned after owners failed to meet Akron’s vacant commercial and industrial building codes. The city’s Vacant Commercial or Industrial Building Appeals Board determined that the structures were “in such a state of disrepair as to create a serious hazard to the health and safety of the community.”
Property Ownership and Tax Implications
Compliance Administrator Jodie Forester of the Housing Compliance Division explained that, once demolished, the parcels will remain in the hands of their current owners. The demolition expense will be added to the property tax bill for each site, ensuring that owners bear the financial responsibility for the removal of unsafe structures.
Details of the Affected Sites
Among the condemned properties are:
- A .41‑acre lot in West Akron owned by Apostolic Church of Christ Inc., approved for demolition in 2023.
- A former Church’s Chicken restaurant, now owned by Greens Investment Group Corp., slated for removal after being boarded up.
- A grouping of row‑house style buildings purchased by Westside Neighborhood Development in 2008, also set for demolition.
- Two properties bought by Rubber City Lounge LLC in April 2024, located on Vernon Odom Boulevard near the Vernon Odom Branch Library. The structures previously housed The Rubber City Jukebox bar and grill and the Hi‑De‑Ho Lounge.
- Two Sherbondy Hill parcels owned by Emmanuel Homes LLC since 2018, approved for demolition in 2023.
- A freestanding commercial lot bought by David W. Jones in 1999, slated for removal after a 2025 approval.
- A site acquired by Family First Ministries in October 2026, also on the demolition list.
- Properties owned by 198 Cuyahoga Street LLC, Little Ministries LLC, and a former grocery store location that was last sold in 2017, each with demolition approvals ranging from 2020 to 2024.
Community Impact
Removing these blighted structures is expected to improve neighborhood safety, reduce fire hazards, and open the possibility for future development that aligns with Akron’s growth goals. Residents have expressed relief that the city is taking concrete steps to address long‑standing eyesores that have detracted from property values and community pride.
Next Steps
Demolition dates have not yet been set, but Forester indicated that the city will coordinate with the contractors to schedule work as soon as possible. The city will continue to monitor compliance and ensure that owners meet their tax obligations related to the demolition costs.
Akron’s proactive approach underscores the importance of local government action in safeguarding public health and fostering a vibrant, safe environment for families and businesses alike.
Original reporting: Signal Akron — read the source article.
