City of Columbus and Property Owners Held in Contempt Over Eastland Mall Property
Columbus, Ohio – A Franklin County judge has found the City of Columbus and the property owners of the abandoned Eastland Mall in contempt of court. This ruling follows the approval and hosting of an unauthorized event on the Eastland Mall site, which was explicitly prohibited by a prior court order.
Judge Stephanie Mingo confirmed that despite a ban on any events at the property, the City of Columbus Building and Zoning Department approved a permit for a carnival held on the Hamilton Road site last week. The mall property, currently undergoing demolition, was observed with carnival equipment and attractions being set up.
The court has also held the property owners, IGWT and Eastland Mall Holdings, responsible for violating the court order. An environmental specialist appointed by the court discovered at least eight unsecured entry points, raising serious safety concerns for the community.
Local residents, including Mary Ellen Crutcher, have expressed worry over the safety of children and community members, especially as multiple children were seen attempting to enter the partially demolished property illegally.
Judge Mingo emphasized the seriousness of the violation, stating that the actions of the city and property owners have deeply shaken the court. She plans to issue further rulings on sanctions and penalties soon.
In response, Scott Messer, assistant director of the Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services, issued a statement assuring the public that the department values its collaboration with the Environmental Court and will take internal measures to prevent such errors in the future.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about the safety and security of the Eastland Mall property and the responsibilities of city officials and property owners in protecting the community.
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