Cleveland Ballet establishes residency in Vermilion

VERMILION — During a recent public meeting, Vermilion Mayor Jim Forthofer updated council and community members on several topics of interest. This would include: • Welcoming the Cleveland Ballet Co.; The classically trained professional ballet group recently took up a summer residency at Harbourtown Fine Arts Center and intends to put on public performances from there. • Enhancing the Vermilion Harbor; Not too long ago, U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Toledo, requested $5.7 million in federal funds to improve an area where the Vermilion River meets Lake Erie. It's not known exactly what the money could be spent on if awarded. • Proposing a major development at Ohio 2 and Baumhart Road; The city's planning commission recently supported a rezoning request proposed by developers out of Dallas, Texas, and Detroit, Michigan. On a 119-acre site, they want to create some sort of warehouse distribution center. Right now, they're in negotiations with prospective companies to start, expand and/or relocate a business there. • Progressing on the Fulper Lot; Formerly a gas station, this downtown site has now turned into a fully functioning parking lot. It'll be ready for its official debut soon. • Creating "comfort" at the beach; Volunteers are working with a contractor to create a bathroom/changing facility, also known as a comfort station, at the revitalized Main Street Beach property. Erie Metroparks donated $100,000 for its construction. Overall, the project totals about $2 million.