TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.1 The Opportunity
1.2 Our Solution
1.3 Benefits for Everyone
2. BACKGROUND: MIDWAY MALL TODAY
2.1 History and Current State
2.2 Community Ownership
2.3 The Cost of Empty Space
2.4 Why Traditional Approaches Failed
3. THE PROPOSAL: SWEAT EQUITY PROGRAM
3.1 Basic Concept
3.2 How It Works
3.3 Who Can Participate
3.4 Examples of Potential Uses
4. PROGRAM STRUCTURE
4.1 Application Process
4.2 Tenant Requirements
4.3 Shared Maintenance Pool
4.4 Legal Framework
5. FORWARD-LOOKING FEATURES
5.1 Solar Parking Canopies
5.2 Indoor Vertical Farm
5.3 Sustainable Future
6. FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
6.1 Current Federal Programs (Verified Active)
6.2 State of Ohio Programs (Currently Active)
6.3 Foundation Grants
6.4 How Funding Would Help
7. FINANCIAL BENEFITS
7.1 For the Community
7.2 For Tenants
7.3 Long-term Economic Impact
7.4 Cost Comparison
8. SUCCESS STORIES FROM OTHER CITIES
8.1 Similar Programs That Work
8.2 Lessons Learned
8.3 Why Elyria Is Ready
9. IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
9.1 Getting Started
9.2 First Year Goals
9.3 Five Year Vision
9.4 Measuring Success
10. ADDRESSING COMMUNITY CONCERNS (Q&A)
10.1 Common Questions
10.2 Responding to Doubts
10.3 Building on Suggestions
11. CALL TO ACTION
11.1 What Citizens Can Do
11.2 Next Steps for Officials
11.3 Contact Information
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.1 The Opportunity
The Lorain County Port Authority owns Midway Mall in Elyria, Ohio. This means the citizens already own this 880,000 square foot property through their government. Right now, it sits mostly empty with just a few remaining tenants, costing taxpayers money every month for basic maintenance, security, and utilities. But this building could become the heart of our community again.
1.2 Our Solution
We propose a "sweat equity" program where entrepreneurs, artists, small businesses, and developers can use space in the mall rent-free. In exchange, they fix up their individual spaces AND contribute to maintaining common areas through a shared pool system. No rent payments. No waiting for someone else to renovate. Just hardworking people building their dreams while bringing our mall back to life together. State and federal funds can help with infrastructure improvements, making this even more achievable.
1.3 Benefits for Everyone
Citizens: No more tax money wasted on mostly empty buildings, avoid $15-25 million demolition cost
Entrepreneurs: Free space to start businesses with possible income tax incentives
Community: New jobs, services, and gathering places
City: Increased economic activity without spending money
Environment: Solar power and local food production
2. BACKGROUND: MIDWAY MALL TODAY
2.1 History and Current State
Midway Mall opened in 1965 at the intersection of Route 57 and Route 301 in Elyria. For decades, it served as the shopping and social center for Lorain County. Major stores like Sears, JCPenney, and Macy's anchored the mall, while dozens of smaller shops filled the corridors.
The mall began struggling in the 2000s as shopping habits changed. Stores gradually closed, and by 2022, the mall was mostly empty. Today, the massive building has only a few remaining tenants while most of the space sits vacant.
2.2 Community Ownership
In 2023, the Lorain County Port Authority purchased Midway Mall. This is important because it means the public - through their government - now owns this property. We don't need to wait for a private developer. We don't need to hope someone buys it. We already own it. Now we need to decide what to do with it.
2.3 The Cost of Empty Space
Every month the mall sits mostly empty costs taxpayers money:
Basic utilities to prevent pipe freezing
Security to prevent vandalism
Minimal maintenance to keep the roof from leaking
Insurance on the property
Lost opportunity for economic growth
The Alternative - Demolition - Is Even Worse:
Estimated demolition cost: $15-25 million for a building this size
Environmental remediation required (asbestos, lead)
Disposal of 880,000 square feet of materials
Lost asset with no return
Empty lot generates no economic activity
All costs borne by taxpayers
This makes our sweat equity proposal even more attractive - it costs taxpayers nothing while avoiding massive demolition expenses.
2.4 Why Traditional Approaches Failed
The Port Authority and other agencies have tried traditional methods:
Searching for large developers to buy the whole property
Looking for major retailers to lease large spaces
Waiting for the "perfect" plan
These approaches haven't worked because:
The building needs too much work for traditional tenants
Large retailers aren't interested in malls anymore
Big developers want guarantees the community can't provide
The longer we wait, the worse the building gets
3. THE PROPOSAL: SWEAT EQUITY PROGRAM
3.1 Basic Concept
Instead of waiting for someone else to fix the mall, we open it to people willing to fix it themselves. Tenants get free space if they renovate their areas AND help maintain the whole property. It's a true community effort.
The Trade:
Tenants receive: Free space, no rent, no property taxes (public ownership), possible income tax incentives
Tenants provide: Renovation of their space, shared maintenance contributions, business activity
3.2 How It Works
Application: Interested parties submit plans for their space
Approval: Port Authority reviews plans for feasibility
Agreement: Both parties sign clear contracts including maintenance pool obligations
Renovation: Tenants fix up their space to code
Operation: Tenants run their business rent-free
Maintenance: Tenants contribute labor/funds to common area upkeep
3.3 Who Can Participate
The program is open to anyone with:
A solid business or community plan
Ability to renovate their space
Commitment to maintain the property
Willingness to contribute to shared spaces
Proper insurance and licenses
Potential Participants:
Small businesses and startups
Artists and creative professionals
Community organizations
Fitness and wellness providers
Educational programs
Residential developers
Light manufacturing
Office users
Entertainment venues
3.4 Examples of Potential Uses
Ground Floor Retail Spaces:
Local bakery with café
Art gallery and studios
Fitness center or yoga studio
Community theater
Farmers market hall
Maker spaces with tools
Small restaurants
Indoor go-karts
Axe throwing venue
Arcade and gaming center
Pickleball courts
Upper Level Conversions:
Apartment units
Office suites
Co-working spaces
Artist lofts
Senior housing
Large Anchor Spaces:
Indoor sports complex
Event center
Educational campus
Medical offices
Light manufacturing
Indoor vertical farm
4. PROGRAM STRUCTURE
4.1 Application Process
Step 1: Initial Interest
Fill out simple form
Describe your vision
Identify desired space
Step 2: Detailed Proposal
Business plan
Renovation plans
Timeline
Financial capability proof
Step 3: Review and Approval
Port Authority evaluation
Public comment period
Final approval
4.2 Tenant Requirements
Before Moving In:
Proof of funds for renovation
Contractor licenses if doing major work
Insurance coverage
Building permits
Agreement to maintenance pool terms
During Renovation:
Follow all building codes
Regular progress updates
Coordinate with other tenants
Complete work on schedule
After Opening:
Maintain individual space properly
Pay utilities for their space
Contribute to common area maintenance
Participate in mall community
Report issues promptly
4.3 Shared Maintenance Pool
How Common Area Maintenance Works:
Instead of paying rent, all tenants contribute to maintaining shared spaces. This creates a true partnership where everyone has skin in the game.
Monthly Contributions:
Based on square footage occupied
Mix of money and labor hours
Smaller spaces = smaller contribution
Can trade skills (electrician fixes lights instead of payment)
What the Pool Covers:
Roof repairs and maintenance
Parking lot upkeep and snow removal
Hallway cleaning and lighting
Main entrance maintenance
HVAC system for common areas
Exterior building maintenance
Security systems
Landscaping
Solar panel maintenance
Example Contribution Structure:
Small shop (1,000 sq ft): $200/month OR 10 hours labor
Medium space (5,000 sq ft): $500/month OR 25 hours labor
Large anchor (25,000 sq ft): $1,500/month OR 75 hours labor
Management Structure:
Tenant association elects board
Board manages maintenance fund
Quarterly meetings for all tenants
Annual budget approved by majority
Emergency fund for unexpected repairs
4.4 Legal Framework
Lease Terms:
5-year initial term minimum
Renewal based on compliance
Clear maintenance standards
Maintenance pool obligations defined
Default and remedy procedures
Protections:
Right to occupy if terms met
Fair process for disputes
Ability to sell business (with approval)
Return on investment recognition
Vote in tenant association
5. FORWARD-LOOKING FEATURES
5.1 Solar Parking Canopies
Vision: Cover parking lots with solar panels that provide shade for cars and free electricity for the mall.
Benefits:
Free electricity for all tenants
Covered parking attracts customers
Reduces operating costs to near zero
Excess power sold back to grid
Shows commitment to future
Implementation:
Partner with solar companies
Use state and federal green energy grants
Phase installation over time
Tenant association manages system
5.2 Indoor Vertical Farm
Vision: Convert one anchor space into a vertical farm growing fresh produce year-round.
What It Provides:
Fresh fruits and vegetables for mall restaurants
Affordable produce for residents
Community-supported agriculture shares
Educational opportunities
Jobs in modern farming
Benefits:
Food security for community
Lower food costs for restaurants
Tourist attraction
STEM education for schools
Year-round growing in Ohio
5.3 Sustainable Future
These features make Midway Mall a model for the future:
Net-zero energy use
Local food production
Green jobs
Educational opportunities
Community resilience
6. FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Important Note: Many federal programs have changed or been eliminated in recent years. However, several key programs remain active as of 2024:
6.1 Current Federal Programs (Verified Active)
U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA)
Still active and received increased funding through Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance programs continue
Focus on projects that create jobs
Perfect fit for Midway Mall as regional economic driver
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Brownfields Program remains active with bipartisan support
Recently received $1.5 billion in additional funding
Cleanup grants still available
Assessment grants for planning
USDA Rural Development
Core programs remain operational
Rural Business Development Grants continue
Local Food Promotion Program still funded
Support for vertical farming initiatives
Department of Energy
Infrastructure Act created new energy efficiency programs
Grid resilience funding expanded
Solar tax credits extended through 2032
Technical assistance available
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) continue
Section 108 Loan Guarantee active
Support for mixed-use development
6.2 State of Ohio Programs (Currently Active)
Ohio Brownfield Fund
Fully operational with $350 million available
Cleanup grants and low-interest loans
Assessment grants for planning
No match required for assessments
JobsOhio Programs
Revitalization Program active
Site development grants available
Workforce grants continuing
Focus on job creation
All Ohio Future Fund
$700 million for site development
Focus on large-scale projects
Could support mall infrastructure
Competitive application process
Ohio Department of Development
Downtown Revitalization Grant Program
Tax Credit programs available
Technical assistance provided
6.3 Foundation Grants
Knight Foundation
Focus on community engagement and innovation
Funds transformative community projects
History of supporting Ohio cities
Kresge Foundation
Urban revitalization focus
Support for innovative community development
Interest in sustainable projects
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
Healthy communities initiatives
Support for food access projects
Funding for community wellness
Local Foundations
Community Foundation of Lorain County
Nord Family Foundation
George Gund Foundation
Cleveland Foundation (regional projects)
6.4 How Funding Would Help
Infrastructure Improvements (Federal/State funds)
Roof replacement or major repairs
HVAC system upgrades
Electrical system modernization
Plumbing updates
Parking lot repairs
Building accessibility improvements
Green Initiatives (Grant funding)
Solar panel installation
Energy-efficient lighting
Water conservation systems
Green roof sections
Electric vehicle charging stations
Community Features (Foundation support)
Public gathering spaces
Children's play areas
Community garden setup
Public art installations
Technology centers
What This Means for Tenants:
Government funds handle major infrastructure
Tenants focus on their individual spaces
Lower maintenance pool contributions
Better building conditions from day one
Faster path to occupancy
Example Funding Package:
EDA Public Works Grant: $3 million (infrastructure)
Ohio Brownfield Fund: $1 million (cleanup)
DOE Energy Programs: $2 million (solar/efficiency)
USDA Programs: $500,000 (vertical farm)
Foundation Grants: $500,000 (community features)
Total: $7 million in outside funding
This would cover most major infrastructure needs, letting tenant sweat equity focus on individual spaces and minor maintenance.
7. FINANCIAL BENEFITS
7.1 For the Community
Current Situation:
Mall costs taxpayers money monthly
Minimal tax revenue from few tenants
Surrounding property values declining
Lost economic activity
Future demolition liability of $15-25 million
With This Program:
Zero taxpayer cost for renovation (with grants)
Demolition costs avoided completely
New businesses create jobs
Increased activity raises property values
Sales tax from new businesses
Income from solar power generation
7.2 For Tenants
Traditional Startup Costs:
Rent: $10-30 per square foot annually
Property taxes: Additional burden
Utilities: Full cost
Build-out by landlord: Expensive and generic
Long-term lease required
With Sweat Equity Program:
Rent: $0
Property taxes: $0 (public ownership)
Utilities: Reduced or free from solar
Build-out: Control your own design
Maintenance pool: Minimal with grant funding
Possible income tax incentives
Example Savings:
A 2,000 square foot space would normally cost:
Annual rent: $20,000-60,000
Property taxes: $5,000-8,000
Utilities: $6,000-10,000
Total over 5 years: $155,000-390,000
Under this program:
Annual rent: $0
Property taxes: $0
Utilities: $0 (with solar)
Maintenance pool contribution: $2,400 ($200/month with grants)
Total over 5 years: $12,000
Savings: $143,000-378,000
7.3 Long-term Economic Impact
Year 1-2: Renovation Phase
Construction jobs from grant projects
Local contractor employment
Material purchases in community
Design and engineering work
Year 3-5: Growth Phase
New permanent jobs
Increased local spending
More tax revenue
Rising property values
Energy independence
Year 5+: Maturity Phase
Established business district
Food production hub
Green energy center
Tourist destination
Model for other communities
Grant funding for expansion
7.4 Cost Comparison
Option 1: Keep Mall Mostly Empty
Annual cost: $200,000+
Eventual demolition: $15-25 million
Total 10-year cost: $17-27 million
Return: $0
Jobs created: Few
Option 2: Demolish Now
Immediate cost: $15-25 million
Environmental cleanup: Additional millions
Lost asset value: Total loss
Empty lot maintenance: Ongoing
Economic impact: Negative
Option 3: Sweat Equity Program
Public cost: $0
Demolition avoided: Save $15-25 million
Asset preserved and improved
Economic activity generated
Community benefits: Ongoing
Jobs created: Hundreds
The math is clear: avoiding demolition alone makes this program worthwhile, even without considering all the positive benefits.
8. SUCCESS STORIES FROM OTHER CITIES
8.1 Similar Programs That Work
Akron, Ohio - Bounce Innovation Hub
Former B.F. Goodrich tire factory
Transformed using state and federal grants
Now houses startups and entrepreneurs
Created hundreds of jobs
Model for industrial reuse
Memphis, Tennessee - Crosstown Concourse
1.5 million square foot former Sears distribution center
$200 million redevelopment (mostly grants and tax credits)
Includes vertical farm and green features
Now houses businesses, apartments, schools, and healthcare
Created 3,000 jobs
Cleveland, Ohio - Tyler Village
Former shopping center transformed
Used New Markets Tax Credits and grants
Mix of affordable housing and retail
Community-driven redevelopment
Solar panels on roof
Thriving neighborhood hub
Detroit, Michigan - Multiple Programs
City offers buildings for $1 if renovated
Federal grants support infrastructure
Many include urban farming
Hundreds of properties brought back to life
National model for urban revitalization
8.2 Lessons Learned
What Works:
Using multiple funding sources
Starting with infrastructure grants
Clear agreements upfront
Building on existing assets
Including sustainable features
Creating destinations, not just shops
Strong tenant cooperation
Patience and persistence
What to Avoid:
Relying on single funding source
Waiting for perfect plans
Over-complicated rules
Ignoring available grants
Traditional thinking only
Expecting overnight success
8.3 Why Elyria Is Ready
Advantages We Have:
Port Authority already owns building
Eligible for multiple grant programs
Strong community spirit
Location at major intersection
Existing infrastructure to build on
Regional drawing power
Growing interest in sustainability
Grant Advantages:
Public ownership makes us eligible
Distressed community qualifications
Ohio prioritizes projects like this
Federal focus on infrastructure
Strong local match through sweat equity
9. IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
9.1 Getting Started
Month 1-2: Program Development
Port Authority creates application
Begin federal grant applications
Legal framework established
Solar feasibility study
Community meetings held
Month 3-4: Grant Pursuit
Submit EDA application
Apply for Ohio Brownfield Fund
Foundation grant proposals
Continue community engagement
Month 5-6: Initial Development
First tenant applications
Grant awards announced
Infrastructure planning begins
Celebrate early wins
9.2 First Year Goals
Minimum Success Targets:
15 businesses committed
$3 million in grants secured
75,000 square feet under renovation
75 jobs created or retained
Infrastructure improvements started
Stretch Goals:
25 businesses committed
$6 million in grants secured
150,000 square feet active
150 jobs created
Solar installation begun
9.3 Five Year Vision
By 2029, Midway Mall becomes:
Home to 75+ businesses
500+ jobs on site
Solar-powered facility
Local food production center
Mix of retail, office, entertainment, and residential
Regional destination
Model receiving national attention
Attracts additional grant funding
Source of community pride
Potential Mix:
25% retail and restaurants
20% entertainment and recreation
20% offices and services
15% residential
10% vertical farm and food production
10% community spaces
9.4 Measuring Success
Economic Metrics:
Jobs created
Private investment amount
Grant funds secured
Tax revenue generated
Energy cost savings
Demolition costs avoided
Community Metrics:
Number of businesses
Events hosted
Visitors per month
Resident satisfaction
National recognition
Community participation
Sustainability Metrics:
Energy generated vs. consumed
Pounds of food produced
Carbon footprint reduction
Grant funding leveraged
Water conservation
10. ADDRESSING COMMUNITY CONCERNS (Q&A)
10.1 Common Questions
"Enclosed malls are things of the past" - Dawn Fugate Watson
You're right that traditional malls are struggling. That's exactly why we're not proposing a traditional mall. This would be a mixed-use community center with entertainment, offices, homes, and even food production. Think of it as a small downtown under one roof, protected from Ohio weather. With grant funding, we can create something truly innovative.
"We can't have nice things in this area. We don't have the right demographics." - Todd M. Lusher
Every community deserves nice things. When people own and build something themselves, they take care of it. Plus, federal and state grants are specifically designed to help communities like ours. This isn't about demographics - it's about giving hardworking people the chance to build something together.
"Can Elyria please add some stores?" - Katy Rizer
That's the whole point! This program makes it affordable for local entrepreneurs to open the stores our community wants. With grants covering infrastructure and no rent to pay, locals can open the businesses we actually need instead of waiting for chains.
10.2 Responding to Doubts
"It isn't going to happen" - Marybeth Ripley Johnson
Akron transformed a tire factory. Cleveland revitalized Tyler Village. Memphis converted a massive Sears building. All used similar grant programs we can access. The difference is we already own the building and can avoid a $15-25 million demolition bill. We just need to apply for the funds and get started.
"Mall rent is way too expensive" - Kristine Rose
Exactly! That's why rent would be ZERO. Tenants only contribute to maintenance, and with grant funding covering major infrastructure, those costs would be minimal. This solves the exact problem that killed traditional malls.
"Better to demolish it and return to plowed fields" - Terry Donovan
Demolition would cost $15-25 million in taxpayer money and waste a huge building. The EPA and state offer grants specifically to avoid this waste. We can transform it for free using outside funding. Why spend millions to destroy when we can create?
"I'd rather shop online" - Jae Marie & "Amazon has exactly what I want" - Andy Young
Online shopping is great for some things. But you can't get a haircut online, work out online, grab coffee with friends online, or take your kids to play online. This isn't about competing with Amazon - it's about creating community spaces for things that require being together.
10.3 Building on Suggestions
"Indoor amusement center and pickleball courts" - Susan Mcclain
Great ideas! With infrastructure handled by grants, entrepreneurs can focus on creating these attractions. The state even has specific tourism grants for recreational facilities.
"There needs to be a reason to actually GO there" - Samantha Lynn Fisher
Absolutely. Entertainment venues like axe-throwing, go-karts, arcades, fitness centers, restaurants, and unique experiences create that draw. Federal EDA grants specifically support projects that create "destination" locations.
"I just want to walk into a store and touch the items" - Lahni Moore
Many people feel the same way. With overhead nearly eliminated through grants and free rent, local retailers can focus on inventory and service. Physical retail becomes viable again when you're not paying $30,000+ in annual rent.
To the Supporters:
"People need another physical outlet" - Frank E King II
"I would love to have the mall reincarnated" - Tammi White
"I don't shop online and have to go to Avon" - Carolyn Bruce
You get it! This is about creating options for everyone - those who want to shop local, socialize in person, and support their community. Your voices matter in making this happen.
11. CALL TO ACTION
11.1 What Citizens Can Do
Today:
Share this proposal with neighbors
Contact representatives about grant support
Join the conversation online
Sign letters supporting grant applications
This Week:
Attend Port Authority meetings
Write support letters for grants
Talk to potential tenants
Document community need
This Month:
Form support committees
Help with grant applications
Organize petition drives
Show united community support
11.2 Next Steps for Officials
Port Authority Should:
Begin EDA grant application immediately
Apply for Ohio Brownfield Fund
Create tenant application process
Partner with grant writers
Hold public input sessions
City Council Should:
Pass resolution supporting grants
Commit to income tax incentives
Streamline permit process
Provide grant match letters
County Commissioners Should:
Support all grant applications
Leverage county resources
Connect with state officials
Champion project publicly
State and Federal Representatives Should:
Write grant support letters
Connect with agency officials
Include in funding requests
Visit and promote project
11.3 Contact Information
To Support This Proposal:
Lorain County Port Authority
Phone: (440) 328-2322
Email: jlmiller@loraincounty.us tmcclelland@lorainportauthority.com sgool@lorainportauthority.com
Address: 319 Third Street, Elyria, OH 44035
Elyria City Council
Phone: (440) 326-1401
Email: council@cityofelyria.org
County Commissioners
Phone: (440) 329-5000
State Representatives
Contact your state senator and representative
Ask them to support grant applications
Federal Representatives
Senator Bernie Moreno
Senator Jon Husted
Representative Bob Latta (Ohio's 5th Congressional District - includes parts of Lorain County)
Representative Max Miller (Ohio's 7th Congressional District - includes parts of Lorain County)
Community Organizers
Facebook: "Save Midway Mall" Group
Email: [To be established]
A Personal Note from the Proposal Author:
I was born and raised in Elyria. After traveling the world, I moved back in 2023 because I missed home and wanted to help make our community beautiful again. The mall I grew up with is gone, but we can create something better - a mall that looks forward to the future instead of back to the past.
With millions in available grants, solar power for free electricity, local food production, and a community working together, we can show the world what's possible when citizens take charge of their own future.
The alternative is spending $15-25 million of taxpayer money to tear it down and have nothing. That makes no sense when we can transform it into a thriving community asset for free.
Some say it can't be done. I say look at what other Ohio cities have accomplished with the same grant programs. We have every advantage - we own the building, grants are available, demolition would cost a fortune, and our community is ready for change.
Join us. With your support and available funding, Midway Mall will rise again as a model for the nation.
The best solutions come from communities working together. Let's prove it at Midway Mall.
No comments:
Post a Comment