At the Aug. 26 Lakefront Development panel luncheon held at Mentor Beach Park, the message was crystal apparent. One of Lake County’s most valuable resources is Lake Erie, along with the shoreline property, which should be used and made as accessible as feasible. The Lake County Development Council sponsored the event, and Patrick Mohorcic, a council member, served as the event’s moderator.
Jason Boyd, who represented Lake County, Kelly Conrad, who oversees Mentor’s economic development, Amy Cossick, who represents Fairport Harbor, Amanda Gordon of McDonald Hopkins LLC, and Rich Regovich, mayor of Willowick, was the panel’s other participants. Each panelist talked about forthcoming initiatives and improvements to maximize the use of the lakefront and surrounding areas. Community members and sponsors filled the room to capacity.
Boyd claimed that he has been actively working to improve the lakefront for more than ten years, and studies have been commissioned to determine the cost and scope of improvement. He also talked of building a trail that would go from Fairport Harbor and Painesville. Cossick talked about a transient marina in Fairport Harbor that would offer amenities to entice more boaters. “It would be comparable to pulling up to a hotel and being greeted by a valet. That sort of service” stated Cossick.
Conrad talked about the Mentor Marsh, the Lagoons, and the marina’s forthcoming projects. She talked about issues with beach erosion, expanding the pier, and the plans for a boardwalk and viewing tower. The more we develop these resources, the more the community will benefit from those who engage in outdoor activities, according to Conrad.
Gordon also discussed other issues, such as helping lakefront homes and finding money for projects there. Regovich discussed a range of potential Willowick initiatives, such as a waterfront restaurant, housing diversity, and allowing access to all areas of the lake Regovich declared, “The lake is a tremendous asset in our town, and we must utilize it.
