We, the residents of OTR, petition the City of Cincinnati to delay their planned lease with Findlay Market at 1720 Race St for a period of 3 months, in order to properly gauge community sentiment.

From the time of listing the property in December, there have been two major holidays and an historic snow event which led to nearly two weeks of limited access and mobility among community members. These factors, while unavoidable, impeded the communication and organization efforts of community representatives such that any moves by the City regarding this property would be fundamentally uninformed by community perspective.

By allowing a 3 month delay, the City can feel confident moving forward with any decision they make, knowing that all stakeholders have been heard.

The lease proposal is for 55 years with two 10 year renewal options: that is the potential for 75 years. The average life expectancy in OTR is 70.9. The city should make every effort to hear the opinions of community members on a decision that will affect the entire lives of several generations. A 3 month delay would demonstrate that effort.

We, the residents of OTR, call upon the City of Cincinnati City Planning and Engagement, Dariah Williams, and Sheryl Long to adopt a 3 month delay in the lease offer of 1720 Race St to Findlay Market by Sunday, March 1st.