Neighbors in Buckeye-Shaker fight to keep Huntington branch
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Buckeye-Shaker residents are rallying to save a Huntington Bank branch that could permanently close due to rising crime.
Why it matters: Of the 34 branches that Huntington announced it would close earlier this year, Cleveland's branch at Buckeye Road and East 117th Street is the only location up for reconsideration, which neighbors say is a testament to their advocacy and resilience.
- They and area business owners argue that older residents with mobility and technological challenges require a physical branch close to where they live.
Catch up quick: After residents petitioned, Huntington withdrew its filing to permanently close the location in February.
- Instead, Huntington said it would temporarily close for six months while working with elected officials and area stakeholders to address its concerns. It agreed to keep an active ATM at the location.
- In April, that ATM was stolen.
What they're saying: Huntington spokesperson Kris Dahl told Axios the bank continues to work with local leaders to pursue "meaningful safety improvements" in the area surrounding the branch.
- "This process has been underway since the beginning of this year, and we are committed to exploring all available options before announcing a decision," Dahl said.
The latest: Last week, local production company Black Valve Media released a 12-minute documentary chronicling the community's grassroots efforts to keep the branch.
- "This is an aging community," resident Tamara Chappell said in the doc. "People are not 'dot-comming' their banking."
What's next: Residents told Axios that they are expecting a decision on the branch's future by Aug. 10.