Hope everyone had an amazing first month of this New Year!

~As always, we are going to really push to grow our social media platforms so shoot us some follows! Would always love any input on how you would like to see us improve!

• Local Dispute!
• Jackson Township Updates!

-Local Housing Project!

• Events for the Family!

-JJ

Canton Mayor William V. Sherer II plans to notify roughly 4,000 Perry Township residents who receive city water that new water connections will no longer be guaranteed. While existing water service will continue, new property owners, businesses, and construction projects in Perry Township may be denied access or reviewed case by case.

At the center of the dispute is a 2023 JEDD agreement between Canton and Perry Township, covering 99 acres off Faircrest Street SW, now slated for a data center. Under the deal, Perry keeps 100% of property taxes, while a 2.5% income tax is split (2% Canton, 0.5% Perry). Crucially, the agreement bars Canton from annexing any Perry Township land for at least 50 years.

Tensions escalated in September when Canton attempted to annex the former Fishers Foods site on Tuscarawas Street West—home to future Chick-fil-A and 7 Brew locations—despite the annexation ban. Perry Township responded by filing a lawsuit in early January. Canton later withdrew the annexation request, rendering the lawsuit moot, but the underlying conflict remains unresolved.

Canton officials say Perry has been unwilling to renegotiate the JEDD, particularly the anti-annexation clause. Perry Township leaders argue that clause is essential to protecting the township from future annexations and are not willing to remove it.

In the meantime, Canton has already denied about 10 recent requests for new water service in Perry Township and expects denials to continue until an agreement is reached. Township officials say they have no control over Canton's water decisions and hope negotiations resume.

A nonprofit group behind Canton's Shorb neighborhood revitalization is bringing a similar affordable housing effort to Alliance’s north side.

Alliance officials and local nonprofits have partnered with Build Ohio to construct 10 new single-family homes in the Liberty Heights area in 2026, targeting long-vacant lots reclaimed through the city’s demolition program.

The homes will be built in Ward 2 on former blighted properties along Liberty, Seneca, and Freedom streets. Average home prices are expected to be around $200,000, with $50,000–$60,000 in subsidies secured per home to serve as down payments-giving buyers immediate equity.

Groundbreaking for the first five homes is expected in March, with five more planned later in 2026 and additional construction anticipated in 2027. Mayor Andy Grove said the city “fully supports” the project, citing its role in expanding affordable housing, creating jobs, and stabilizing neighborhoods.

Build Ohio is a joint venture between Canton For All People and the Youngstown Neighborhood Development Corporation, both known for neighborhood revitalization work. Canton For All People also leads the Newton Family Apartments project in Canton’s Shorb neighborhood.

Additional partners include:

The effort is designed to complement-not compete with-Alliance Area Habitat for Humanity, with collaboration planned between the organizations.

📅 Jan 30, 7:30 PM
📍 Akron Civic Theatre
One of the strongest draws on the list. A polished, high-energy tribute to Fleetwood Mac with real nostalgia pull and wide age appeal.

📅 Jan 29, 6–8 PM
📍 Lock 3

📅 Jan 31, 10–11:30 AM
📍 Akron (Cuyahoga St.)
Perfect family-friendly pick: outdoor activity, kids involved, s’mores, and seasonal vibes.

📅 Jan 30, 7:30 PM
📍 E.J. Thomas Hall
High-energy, interactive, and different from a standard show. Great for theater fans and social groups.

JJ Out!