Akron · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Akron public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Commercial Demolition and Neighborhood Revitalization
Community advocates and council members discussed strategies to combat neighborhood blight, including enhanced code enforcement, anti-blight ordinances, and leveraging municipal vehicle cameras.
ARC Data Center Expansion and Street Vacations
A local business owner urged the city to proactively protect freshwater resources from heavy consumption by proposed data centers.
Cole & Sweitzer Apartment Development
Manuel Smart is proposing to build a new six-unit apartment complex on vacant land at Cole and Sweitzer avenues. The project aims to bring new, modern multi-family housing to South Akron.
South Main Street 7-Eleven Rebuild
Speedway LLC wants to tear down an old auto shop and rebuild a modern 7-Eleven gas station and convenience store at South Main and Waterloo. The project includes improved driveways and stormwater reviews.
Housing Affordability and Homelessness Services
The city is partnering with EANDC to provide up to $7,500 in forgivable loans to help first-time homebuyers purchase homes in Akron.
Real Estate Anti-Discrimination Charter Amendment (Section 100A)
Voters will decide whether to add criminal history protections to Akron's charter for real estate transactions, giving the Civil Rights Commission jurisdiction. Discussion focused on whether the ballot language accurately reflected the petition's exceptions for sex and arson offenders.
Innerbelt Master Plan Support
The city is considering adopting the Interbelt Master Plan to guide the long-term redevelopment and reconnection of neighborhoods impacted by the uncompleted Interbelt highway. The plan includes form-based zoning, community advisory oversight, and short-term activation projects like the Legacy Building Project.
Preservation of Historic Bowen School Building
A resident advocated for the historic preservation and adaptive reuse of the 1916 Bowen School building rather than demolition.
Akron Zoo Pride of Africa Exhibit Expansion
The Akron Zoo proposed an 8-to-9 acre expansion for its Pride of Africa exhibit featuring giraffes and other wildlife. Residents raised questions about traffic, smells, and tree removal, while zoo officials defended the project as an economic driver.
Spring Hill Apartment Pest Infestations and Housing Conditions
Residents reported severe roach and bed bug infestations at Spring Hill apartments that caused mail delivery to stop, prompting calls for stricter city inspections and landlord accountability.