Vermilion advances development, park plans

Editor's note: Joseph Jones is a Register correspondent representing vermiliondaily.com. VERMILION — This past month, Vermilion officials advanced projects that touch on housing, retail growth and park amenities, signaling continued investment in the city's infrastructure and quality of life. Deals on development On Sept. 3, the city's planning commission approved three measures: • The Compass Rose condominiums, on the north side of West Lake Road east of Adams Street, will connect to the city's U.S. 6 sewer line as required by the Ohio EPA. The city's service director, Tony Valerius, said the plant has capacity and the connection will not carry a cost to the city. • Oak Knoll Investment Co. received approval to proceed with Phase II of the Ridgeview subdivision along Ridgeview Drive west of Foxwood Drive, adding six lots. The final phase is expected next year, and the developer said it will comply with the engineer's comments. • The commission also granted a zoning certificate for a new Dollar General store on Liberty Avenue across from German's Villa. Zaremra Group representatives presented the preliminary site plan and said Dollar General intends to sign a long-term lease of at least 15 years. The plan includes sidewalks and landscaping that match recent frontage improvements. Context on other city matters The city's parks and recreation board continues to focus on community projects and events. Among the most notable items: • Main Street Vermilion announced the Vermilion Lighthouse has been added to the America 250 Ohio Lake Erie to Ohio River Trail, part of the state's 2026 semiquincentennial celebration. • The board unanimously approved $45,000 from the city's capital fund for access improvements and civil work at Showse Park. The Brownhelm Historical Society and the Vermilion Kiwanis Club will install a Little Free Library at Showse designed to resemble the Vermilion-on-the-Lake Clubhouse with the Kiwanis providing ongoing maintenance. • City recreation director Chad Kuhns reported a record turnout of about 90 children in youth football this fall. • Parks operations manager Marc Weisenberger outlined trail maintenance at Sherod Park, continued installation of security cameras and AED units, pool winterization and new playground work. • Board member Karen Viterna reported the community pool is on track to break even financially for the first time in years with a splash pad planned for 2026.