STEUBENVILLE, OH — For months, public opinion has suggested that the owners of the Fort Steuben Mall have remained silent regarding the property’s deteriorating condition. However, a River News Exclusive investigation has uncovered a formal response to city officials, proving that dialogue is indeed underway.
Ownership and Accountability
In the correspondence letter, Bill Johnson of Total Finance clarifies that the company took control of the mall via foreclosure from the previous owner, Carlos Melo. The letter acknowledges the “substantial deferred maintenance” inherited from the prior four years and details the steps being taken to rectify it.
Key Quotes from the Official Response
The document reveals that the owners are asking for patience as they navigate the scale of the repairs:
The letter states, “we have already expended in excess of $300,000 toward roof repairs”. Total Finance notes they have “made contact with a professional property management team to address the concerns and come up with a plan for stabilization”. The owners officially requested a “reasonable compliance period of six (6) months to complete necessary repairs and redevelopment”.
A Commitment to the City
Contrary to the belief that the owners were ignoring local mandates, the letter concludes with a formal pledge:
“Total Finance hereby commits to cooperating with the city and complying with all applicable codes and regulations”.
While the mall’s future remains a primary concern for residents, this exclusive look at the document confirms that the owners are finally on the record with a timeline for rehabilitation.
See full letter below.
