CUYAHOGA FALLS: The City Council will begin eminent domain proceedings against the last of 13 properties in the path of a $9.3 million State Road improvement project.
The city wants land that is part of the Mandarin House restaurant at State and West Bath roads. Planned improvements to State Road will extend from Graham to Steels Corners roads.
The council voted Monday to pursue legal action to acquire a portion of the parking lot — some of which is already in the city’s right-of-way.
Restaurateur Eddie Hwee said he fears the construction project and loss of 20 parking spaces could cost him his business, which he has owned for 29 years. The council previously passed a similar resolution for the first 12 properties in the path of the project.
Diana Colavecchio, whose Ward 5 includes Hwee’s property, had asked for a previous delay in the city seeking eminent domain.
“At the end of two weeks, [Hwee] seemed to be going in the right direction,” Colavecchio said.
Law Director Paul Janis said he cannot comment on the status of the negotiations between the city and Hwee.
Hwee declined to comment on the talks.
Colavecchio said Hwee can continue to negotiate with the city for another 30 days before the council will be asked to approve eminent-domain litigation.
“Hopefully it can be resolved and it will be behind him,” she said.
