EDITOR’S NOTE: This is one in a series looking at what Lake County communities, agencies and school districts experienced in 2024 and what is facing them in 2025. Related Articles Local News | Wickliffe Schools ‘well-positioned’ to navigate 2025, superintendent says Local News | Willoughby-Eastlake Schools prioritizes customized learning, superintendent says Local News | How to deal with loss during the holidays Local News | Kirtland hires Julia DeWolf as new community, senior center coordinator Local News | Willoughby Police Department receives $47,000 donation from Fraternal Order of Eagles Mentor-on-the-Lake Mayor David Eva said continued development both commercially and future residential opportunities in the city highlighted his review of 2024. The city put out bids for consulting groups to develop a comprehensive plan that will be used for future development plans in the city over the next several years. They have hired the Envision Group, led by Ryan Smalley, to develop that comprehensive plan. “We have had several steering committee meetings which consists of eight to 12 residents and business owners in Mentor-on-the-Lake,” Eva said. “We held a public forum meeting using ideas gathered from the steering committee meetings to get more input from our residents. These ideas will be compiled and presented on Jan. 9 back to the steering committee.” Eva said officials expect to have a completed comprehensive plan by the middle of 2025. On the residential side, the Sommers Group was approved to develop 30 townhouses at the corner of Lakeshore Boulevard and Andrews Road. The infrastructure including utilities and fencing is in place. Eva said construction of the townhouses should begin in early 2025. The mayor cited several new businesses coming to the city to help boost the commercial profile of the city. Chipotle opened in late summer 2024 and brings another dining alternative to the city. “The remodeling of the former Burger King has improved the look of Andrews Road at the Chipotle location,” Eva said. Hometown Urgent Care and Occupational Health has replaced WellNow Urgent Care, still offering a walk-in clinic on Andrews Road. Meanwhile, Enzo’s Pizza opened in the Marc’s Plaza where Master Pizza was previously located. Also, Dollar General opened in late 2023 and during 2024, Dollar General was able to meet the signage and landscaping requirements in their development agreement. “They are a great shopping alternative for our residents in the surrounding apartments including those in Lake Vistas and Andrews Place,” Eva said. “This is a good location for those residing on the northern part of Andrews Road.” $300,000 in funding secured for Lake Overlook Park in Mentor-on-the-Lake As for Lake Overlook Beach Park, a public forum was held to get input and ideas on what residents would like to see at the park since a levy was passed in 2023. The city is working with an outside engineer to secure the bluff at the park and then work to add enhancements to the park. Eva also recognized longtime Law Director Jim Lyons, who has decided to retire after almost 37 years with the city. Lyons served three mayors over his years with the city along with numerous council members.