Medina Mayor Dennis Hanwell shares updates on his bustling community and reasons why it’s worth a trip.
What makes Medina so appealing?
For those who haven’t been here, Medina is a very picturesque and pristine place, especially with the gazebo in the square. (The city) began buying flowerpots to place throughout the historic district’s nine blocks. We’ve added each year (75-76 last year), so when you come to the area the square is surrounded with these colorful flowers, and it gives the strong impression of a community that cares and is welcoming.
Are there plans to expand and grow the downtown area?
We are in the process of a downtown strategic plan, which is soliciting opinions from the business community and residences as to what they would like to see added to the downtown area in addition to what we have already — maybe a boutique hotel or certain eateries. Then, as we plan redevelopment of the existing buildings or add new buildings, we can incorporate some of those ideas of what the constituents are really looking for.
Can you update us on the economic development and growth of the city?
We’ve created a community development department, which is a combination of business and economic departments all housed in one place. As new businesses come in or expand, they can come to one office and get all of their questions answered. We work collaboratively with the Medina Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Medina. With the three of us all working together and pushing in the same direction, it has created great dividends for all of us.
Space on the square is very much in demand and even other areas of the city. We have created a pro-business model to attract new businesses, which has been done intentionally because the more folks we have here working and the more amenities we have, it just helps the overall economy.
One of the most positive things that Medina has going for it is that it’s the fastest-growing county north of Columbus. It’s been in the top rank of growing counties in Ohio with the exception of two near Columbus and two near Cincinnati.
How does the city welcome visitors such as families?
The goal and the vision of the city administration and city council is to make the city a destination point for people to come to, particularly families
We have park amenities so people can get out, have recreation and be healthy by simply walking on trails. We have festivals and activities year-round at our public square. We have free concerts and international festivals and art shows … along with all kinds of activities such as the farmers market. The park, with the historical buildings surrounding it, provides a good location for activities, eateries and coffee shops, so it helps promote businesses based in Medina.
