Army to Build Reserve Center
In the Village of Boston Heights

The Army Reserve has an option to buy 22 acres of wooded land on Olde Route Eight, south of Hines Hill Rd. The proposed center would consolidate military units from various centers now in existence in Cuyahoga County. The center would be a base for 1,079 soldiers from 10 reserve units. The Army expects the deal to be closed during the first or second week of Sept. Once the property has closed, the chances to stop the construction diminish greatly.

Representatives of the Army Reserve have stated that the only way construction would be stopped is by "an act of Congress". Further, the Army has informed Village officials that they are not required to follow Village zoning rules and do not require building permits. In effect, they can build anything they want.

A Wed, Aug. 21, 2002 article in The Wall Street Journal entitled "Fencing Off Bases Isolates Military From Its Neighbors", describes the changes that have been made as a result of the Sept. 11 attacks. "Over the last year, bases have reversed course, putting up fences, closing roads and restricting access". "Up went a 7-foot fence topped with barbed wire and razor wire, a guardpost patrolled by armed military police and floodlights powered by a noisy generator." A neighbor of an existing facility stated that it makes the base "look like a prison or concentration camp"

We, a group of concerned citizens of Boston Heights, are requesting that you get involved to help us deliver a strong message of opposition to the construction of this center in the Village of Boston Heights. We are asking that you call, fax or write your elected officials, Steve LaTourette, Mike DeWine, and George Voinovich to voice your opinion.

Signed, Concerned Citizens of Boston Heights

For more information, please contact one of the following Concerned Citizens: