Portage County • October 1, 2025
Good morning, Portage County. Mark your calendars for 2026 โ Trader Joe's is finally bringing its cult-favorite products to University Heights. The long-rumored "worst kept secret in town" is officially happening as the popular grocery chain prepares to anchor the new Gateway North development near John Carroll University. This "food oasis" will be complemented by nearly 100 apartment units designed for upperclassmen and ample parking for cookie butter enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, Roxbury Elementary students are adapting to temporary classrooms at Parkside Church following asbestos contamination that could take up to eight weeks to remediate. And University Heights' political landscape is shifting with three candidates vying to replace outgoing Mayor Brennan โ current Vice Mayor Michele Weiss, urban planner Philip Atkin, and newcomer Chauncey Hutton. Each brings different strengths to the historic November 4 election while sharing commitments to infrastructure and community character.
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๐ Trader Joe's is heading to University Heights in 2026. The popular grocery chain will anchor the new Gateway North development near John Carroll University, becoming the fourth Trader Joe's location in the Cleveland area. Mayor Michael Brennan confirmed the long-rumored plans, calling it "the worst kept secret in town" and declaring University Heights will become a "food oasis." The development will include 96 apartment units designed for John Carroll juniors and seniors, along with nearly 500 parking spaces. While John Carroll and Trader Joe's representatives were coy about confirming details, plans indicate the store will open in fall 2026.
๐ซ Asbestos cleanup forces Roxbury Elementary students to relocate. Solon School District has implemented a three-track plan addressing the contamination, with students temporarily attending classes at Parkside Church while environmental experts conduct remediation. The cleanup process could take four to eight weeks, with the district working under regulatory oversight to ensure safety. Health expert Dr. Smart warns that while asbestos exposure doesn't cause immediate symptoms, it can lead to serious health issues decades later, with children particularly vulnerable. District officials emphasize they will only return students to the building after it meets the highest safety standards.
๐ณ๏ธ Three candidates vie for University Heights mayor in historic election. Current Vice Mayor Michele Weiss, second-time candidate Philip Atkin, and newcomer Chauncey Hutton are competing to replace outgoing Mayor Michael Dylan Brennan. Weiss touts her decade on City Council and strong relationships, Atkin emphasizes his urban planning background and problem-solving skills, while Hutton, endorsed by Brennan, brings fresh perspective as a first-time candidate. All three prioritize infrastructure improvements and maintaining the city's character, with the election set for November 4.
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Renovated ranch ready for you: Priced at $170,000, this updated 3-bedroom ranch offers single-level living with a modern kitchen, recent major upgrades including new AC and tankless water heater, plus a yard with fruit trees and 2-car garage.
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