STRUTHERS, Ohio - Struthers could be home to the headquarters of The Red Zone.

 

City leaders say owners could close on a former school building that is for the most part empty.

 

21 News looked into potential plans and steps needed to make this happen. 

 

The former Highland Avenue School building in Struthers, which opened its doors in 1909, could get some renovations and some new life.

 

The Red Zone Mental Health and Recovery is expected to close on the property by the end of the month. Results are contingent on a title search.

 

"We were contacted by the Red Zone by Maurice Clarett and Eric Ungaro, who is on the board. They had some ideas of what they want to do with the building they want to go through the proper steps," said Mayor Catherine Cercone Miller.

 

The potential new owners are expected to request spot zoning which means the building and grounds around it would be zoned commercially, and the homes nearby would retain their residential zoning. 

 

The representatives of Red Zone expressed they want to be good neighbors. 

 

If plans fall through, zoning would revert back to residential zoning.

 

Community input will be sought. 

 

"Then we'll have to have a public hearing. We will have to set that up, but we have to advertise for three weeks, then we will have a hearing with the surrounding neighbors there to come ask any questions," said Robert Burnside, Zoning Committee Chairman, and 3rd ward Councilman.

 

At that time Red Zone representatives would answer questions about redevelopment plans and operations.

 

The mayor, zoning board and city council emphasize this is not a Suboxone or Methadone clinic, but office space and for outpatient services.

 

Currently the basketball court is rented by around 70 teams.  It's believed the owners will continue to rent the space for these games.

 

If plans move forward The Red Zone could be Struthers fourth or fifth largest employer.