The City of Cleveland Heights held a public hearing on December 15, 2025, to discuss proposed amendments to the zoning code, specifically the creation of a Severance Overlay Zone (SOZ) aimed at redeveloping the Severance Town Center area. The meeting featured detailed presentations on the overlay's intent to replace the existing S1 zoning with a form-based code encouraging mixed-use development, parks, and walkable neighborhoods, while preserving conservation areas such as the Milk and Woods. Public comments reflected a range of views, with some residents expressing concerns about the pace of the process, the need for a comprehensive development plan, and maintaining elected officials' oversight, while others supported the overlay as a necessary step to attract developers and revitalize the area. The planning commission and city staff emphasized the extensive review and community input incorporated into the proposal, highlighting the addition of a Technical Advisory Committee and the shift of approval authority from the Board of Control to the Planning Commission. The meeting concluded with a call for council to consider adopting the ordinances to move forward with redevelopment efforts.

Cleveland Heights Public Hearing Severance Overlay Zone December 15, 2025