Lakewood Considers Buying Cove United Methodist Building

LAKEWOOD, OH — Lakewood City Council is considering a resolution that would allow the city to purchase the former Cove United Methodist Church site.

In a letter to City Council, Lakewood's Law Director Kevin Butler said officials would try to purchase the site for $900,000. The funds would come from the city's property acquisition fund, according to Lakewood Councilmember Dan O'Malley.

The property — located at 12525 Lake Avenue — could serve several purposes for the city. Officials have specifically discussed turning the building into an underground storm water basin and a community center.

"The administration believes the church property, which is currently vacant, will continue to assist us in developing solutions for compliance with the federal Clean Water Act, and could also serve as the site of a multigenerational community center situated at an exceptionally convenient location in the city," Butler's letter said.

The proposal before City Council would see the deal between the city and Cove United close by June 30 of this year. Council members will begin consideration of the deal on Monday, April 15. O'Malley invited the public to attend and share their thoughts on both the proposed deal and the possible uses of the property.

The entire proposed agreement, and associated documents, have been shared online.