ASHLAND — Future downtown development plans have spurred the possible vacation of a city right of way.
The specific area being considered for vacation by Ashland City Council is found on Center Street — located between the Ashland Monument Company’s warehouse and currently vacant property.
Back in September, Ashland Mayor Matt Miller announced Matt Wurster plans to construct a 2,600-square-foot retail building on this vacant property, 32 E. 3rd St., includinv 1,200 square feet of rooftop seating.
Miller said the proposed vacation of the right of way was brought to council by Wurster. The specified portion of Center Street no longer serves a public purpose, he said.
“After all, it dead ends into the Pump House District apartments,” the mayor said. “With that in mind, we’ve talked with all those involved and they are supportive of the vacancy.”
Ashland lawmakers unanimously approved a resolution Tuesday declaring council’s intention to vacate the identified right of way on Center Street.
As a result of Tuesday’s approval, a hearing regarding the vacation has been set for Nov. 17 during council’s regularly scheduled meeting.
Community announcements from Tuesday’s meeting
Several community announcements were shared during Tuesday’s meeting regarding city leaf collection, trick-or-treat and an upcoming ribbon cutting ceremony.
Lincoln Park ribbon cutting
A ribbon cutting ceremony for Lincoln Park has been set for Oct. 20 at 5 p.m.
The new park, located on the corner of Troy Road and West 11th Street, will include playground equipment and a dog park, as well as a pavilion, benches and picnic tables and a basketball court — thanks to the public-private partnership between the city and the Rotary Club of Ashland.
Leaf collection
City leaf collection will begin Oct. 26, the mayor said. Maps of the collection order can be found on the city’s website and Facebook page. The collection continues throughout the remainder of the year. Miller said the final day for collection is often dependent on weather.
The city’s guidelines for leaf collection include:
- All leaves must be raked to the curb or berm by 7 a.m. on your scheduled collection day.
- Do not place leaves in the street or ditches. Doing so clogs storm sewers and creates dangerous traffic conditions.
- Leaves must be placed at least 3 feet away from obstructions, including trees, signs and fire hydrants.
- Ensure vehicles are not parked near leaf piles to allow for proper collection.
- Only leaves should be included in piles—no rocks, branches, yard waste or other debris.
Trick-or-treat
The city’s official date for trick-or-treat will be Thursday, Oct. 29 from 5 to 7 p.m., Miller said. It will take place rain or shine unless weather conditions become severe.
Ashland City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, except August, at 7 p.m. Meetings are open to the public on the third floor of the Municipal Building, 206 Claremont Ave., and can also be streamed live online via the city’s YouTube and Facebook accounts.
