Mentor seeking resident feedback for housing study

Nov. 4—Mentor is seeking resident feedback as part of a Housing Study and Needs Analysis that will evaluate Mentor's housing market and identify gaps in existing housing stock.

According to a project overview, the city believes as a community, it is important to recognize housing as a priority for retaining and attracting residents and businesses.

In addition to analyzing current housing conditions, the goal of the study is to identify future housing demands based, in part, on city demographics such as population and median income within specific age brackets and changing lifestyles.

One key element of the project includes conducting a resident survey to encourage community participation and gather residents' opinions on the topic of housing. Results of the survey will be compiled and incorporated into the analysis.

"Housing is an important issue for the city of Mentor and communities across the country, who are dealing with a shortage of housing, increased costs and limited housing choices," Mentor Planning Director Kathy Cantanzriti said. "The city recognizes the need to plan for the future and provide housing opportunities that will keep Mentor thriving.

"We believe this housing study will offer smart strategies to do just that and resident input will be an important component to ensuring these strategies are responsive to the needs of current and future residents."

Other project elements include a thorough review of the city's existing housing inventory from housing types, age of homes and affordability as well as a review of the city's zoning regulations that control housing development.

Mentor's housing market will then be compared to similar markets throughout the region and state.

The city has hired Stantec Consulting Services, Inc. to facilitate the study. The outcomes of the study should help to provide elected officials and city staff with a platform from which future land use decisions and zoning strategies can be made, striking a balance between necessary future growth and retaining the desired residential character of the community.

The analysis is expected to take eight months to complete.

For more information on how residents can participate in the study, visit the city's website.