Lima · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lima public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Infill development land sales
Two small city-owned lots go to buyers for infill development at $447 each — one on North Elizabeth to New Lima – Housing for the Future, one on West Elm to Blass Holdings.
Cary Estates No 2 rezone referred for study
The city petitioned to rezone 35 parcels from industrial to residential to preserve neighborhood integrity; a public hearing is set for September 14, 2026.
Cheryl Allen Center renovation design expansion
The Kleinfelder design contract grows by nearly $100,000 to incorporate a $1.3 million state capital grant for the Cheryl Allen Center renovation.
OHFA Multifamily Housing Applications
Four developers — Spire, Fairfield Homes, and Buckeye Community Hope Foundation (twice) — notified the city they're applying for state multifamily housing funds for Lima projects. Council accepted the notices and let legislation drafting begin.
Affordable housing land transfers
The city is selling two Harrison Avenue lots to Blass Holdings for infill homes and donating vacant lots on Ritchie and Rice Avenues to New Lima Homes for affordable owner-occupied houses.
Residential demolition contract for 2026
A contract with Ben's Construction would tear down condemned houses throughout 2026, paid from federal CDBG funds. It targets blight and unsafe structures under the city's Safe & Livable Neighborhoods goal.
Welcome Home Ohio single-family home construction
Legislation was scheduled to let the city partner with the LCIC to build new single-family homes on Hazel and Holly streets — and acquire two Faurot Avenue properties — using Welcome Home Ohio grant funds, then sell to qualified buyers. It's part of the city's push to add housing stock.
Affordable senior housing on West Spring Street
Spire Development wants to rezone the 700 block of West Spring Street for about 50 units of affordable housing for residents 55 and older, with rents capped for those under 80% of area median income and a 45-year affordability covenant. A resident raised fire-evacuation concerns about the single elevator.
Housing Ordinances
Lima's City Council just passed fresh housing rules that are set to change how real estate and neighborhood development work. Expect to see some new dynamics on your block as developers adapt to these updated guidelines.
735 Holly Street rehabilitation
The city will buy 735 Holly Street from the Lima Community Improvement Corporation, use Welcome Home Ohio grant funds to fix it up, then sell it to a qualified buyer.
Affordable senior housing at 910 North Shore Drive
Fairfield Homes is planning about 80 apartments for residents 55 and older with income limits from $30,000 to $60,000 a year, rents of $995-$1,100, and housing voucher acceptance. Council rezoned the site on first reading.