More than a dozen Cleveland residents turned out Tuesday night for a general town hall meeting. Ward 2 Councilwoman Rebecca Yardley arranged the meeting at the Cleveland Community Center/Police Department Building to provide an opportunity for open dialogue and to answer questions.
The biggest concern expressed by most of those attending was the decision made recently by the Cleveland City Council to explore the possibility of selling the old Talon property. The city purchased the property several years ago to build a city complex there that would house city hall, public safety, and other offices.
Former city councilman Rush Mauney said the development of that property “could have the biggest impact on the city for years to come.” He said it’s in the center of town and is the perfect place for what he called “our front yard.”
Suggestions were made to look for ways to re-engineer the plans to help cut costs and possibly develop the site in stages over time.
Councilwoman Nan Bowen, who voted against the possible sale of the property, said, “We can work to find funds needed.”
Former City Council member Annie Sutton shares her comments during the town hall meeting. (WRWH.com)
Former council members Annie Sutton and Bradley Green were among the citizens attending the meeting who expressed their views and gave insight on decisions made by previous councils.
Other issues discussed during the town hall included the State of the City, preservation of historic areas, growth problems, drainage and erosion issues, and sewer and water services.
Councilwoman Yardley said she felt positive about the event.
“I think it was a great discussion that was had. There was lots of laughter, and there was lots of sharing about things we can do to improve our community – about concerns that people have, and I look forward to taking that information sharing with my fellow council members to make our community a better place to live,” said Yardley.
Yardley told the crowd this is the first of many such meetings she hopes to hold to hear from the public.
