YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The Western Reserve Port Authority’s purchase of City Centre One and the Commerce Building, approved Sept. 18, is extremely encouraging for the future of downtown Youngstown. So, too, is the agency’s commitment to uphold the high standards of building maintenance set by Ohio One Corp.
Ohio One was founded in the 1970s by the late Richard E. Mills, affectionately known as “The Chief.” The company would become the key (and only) developer and landlord in the east end of downtown for more than 50 years. In the last few years, Ohio One has been divesting properties as its principals approach retirement. It previously sold what is now known as the Apollo Building and the former IBM Building.
In 1973, Ohio One opened its flagship, City Centre One. At the time, the office building represented the most significant – and modern – private investment in downtown in decades. Today the building houses the area’s major economic development organizations, including WRPA, Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber, Eastgate Regional Council of Governments and the newly formed Lake to River Economic Development.
In 1987, Ohio One acquired the former Haber furniture store and extensively renovated it, adding a fifth floor to the structure and reopening it in 1989 as the Commerce Building.
Ohio One has generally operated quietly, earning a solid reputation for maintaining and managing pristine properties. Its holdings still include the Ohio One Building, where The Business Journal is based.
For sure, the family business is held in high regard. Those who work, reside or visit downtown following a snowstorm always find the sidewalks surrounding Ohio One’s buildings shoveled down to the cement. (Many downtown sidewalks are never cleared). The company’s civic involvement is demonstrated by its leadership in Streetscape’s annual planting and cleanup day.
The purchase of City Centre One and the Commerce Building – both of which are nearly full – obviously comes at a critical time for downtown. As an agency dedicated to economic development, the port authority will keep these properties viable. The maintenance and management team Ohio One has long employed will be retained. The high standards set by Ohio One and the Mills family will be maintained.