The Building Department has made great efforts responding to complaints concerning homes in foreclosure and their maintenance issues.

Even in a down market, there are a dozen homes currently under construction with sale prices of more than $300,000. The Community Development Department continues to meet with commercial and residential developers who have faith in the North Royalton market. They continue to be very interested in property throughout our city in anticipation of an economic turnaround in the foreseeable future.

One reason North Royalton continues to be attractive to homebuyers is its award-winning school system. The district’s “Excellent with Distinction” rating from the state of Ohio marks the eighth consecutive year the schools have earned the state’s top ranking. This was done while spending the second lowest dollar amount per pupil in all of Cuyahoga County.

The Community Development Department continues to document existing available land and commercial space throughout the city in an effort to market these sites on the city’s website and on related regional websites and publications throughout Northeastern Ohio.

The York Alpha Industrial Park is featured on the city’s website with a listing of tax and financial incentives offered. The city will continue to map remaining commercial sites for use as marketing tools by real estate agents and prospective buyers.

The town center district remains a priority for the city. City officials continue to meet with developers and discuss their proposals. The plan is for an enhanced mixed-use center including offices, housing and retail uses that enlarge the city’s tax base while providing a quality retail experience for residents.

The 2009 Storefront Renovation Rebate Program is designed to assist business owners in improving the facades of storefronts and/or correcting exterior code violations. Businesses may qualify for tax rebates that can save them up to $8,000 for qualified exterior improvements.