By 1808Delaware
The public is talking about city-owned land in Uptown Westerville again. But unlike previous discussions, the focus is on a question instead of a supposed development.
The City of Westerville is asking for input regarding the future of the property located at 64 E. Walnut St. (previously used by a number of city divisions) by hosting a community workshop on Tuesday, August 11, between 6:00 – 8:00 PM at the Westerville Community Center.
A Site Back at the Starting Line
The workshop was organized following the City Council’s unanimous vote on June 2 to deny a proposal to sell and redevelop the site. Council determined that the city would provide preliminary information and solicit citizen input regarding the property in order to receive guidance on the goals and objectives concerning the property.
The bid came from Continental Development Ventures. It included a proposal for a mixed-use development that prompted the construction of a boutique Marriott hotel, approximately 250 residential units, one (1) restaurant, and a parking garage with approximately 400 spaces. Council halted the sale process after the proposal was the focus of significant public engagement. Instead of focusing public opinion on a proposed development, city officials are asking residents to express their preferences for land use.
Around the Tables
The first part of the session on Tuesday will be focused on educating the public about the property, its current conditions, and the city’s strategic goals. Staff will also walk residents through the various steps of Westerville’s development process and the city’s planning and zoning regulations. The public will then participate in a 45-minute long, facilitated discussion to identify their goals and visions for the property and the surrounding area.
Space will be limited to 168 participants, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Doors open at 5:30 PM.
More Than One Evening
Residents who cannot attend will still have an opportunity to participate. The city plans an online survey and printed comment cards using the same questions posed during the workshop. That comment period will remain open through August 28. The results are expected to reach City Council at a September 8 work session. Council will then consider the public input, city planning documents and staff recommendations before deciding what direction redevelopment of the property should take.
That makes Tuesday’s meeting more than another public hearing on an already formed project. For 64 E. Walnut, Westerville has effectively reset the process, giving residents a chance to help define the destination before the city again chooses a route to get there.
