City West residents voice concerns over partial property sale

CMHA CEO says renovations will save the complex and protect residents

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:19pm

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Dozens of residents of the City West housing development in Cincinnati's West End spoke to city leaders about their concerns over CMHA's plans to sell 105 units as part of a $200 million renovation project. Residents fear the possibility of relocation, while CMHA CEO Gregory Johnson says the goal is to improve the property and that no residents will be displaced.

Why it matters

The City West complex has been a long-standing affordable housing option in the West End, and residents are worried about the impact of the partial sale on their living situations. CMHA's plans to renovate the property have raised questions about whether current residents will be able to remain in their homes.

The details

CMHA announced plans in November to sell 105 units at the City West housing development as part of a $200 million renovation plan. The housing authority took over the property when the previous owners defaulted on a $4 million loan. CMHA CEO Gregory Johnson said the sale will allow the agency to pay off the debt and reinvest in the remaining units. However, residents like Patricia Charlton and Judith Jones expressed concerns about potentially being relocated, with Charlton saying 'It's not easy to have to move' at age 76.

  • In November, CMHA announced plans to sell 105 units at City West.
  • CMHA hopes to have a purchase agreement in place by July 1, 2026.

The players

Gregory Johnson

CEO of the Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA), which oversees the City West housing development.

Patricia Charlton

A 76-year-old resident of the City West senior building who is concerned about the possibility of being relocated.

Judith Jones

A resident of City West for the past four years who is anxious about the uncertainty surrounding the property sale.

Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney

The Vice Mayor of Cincinnati who met with City West residents to listen to their concerns and offer support from the city.

Brian Garry

The executive director of Neighborhoods United, who helped set up the meeting between residents and city leaders.

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What they’re saying

“It's more than the emotion, it's about our life.”

— Patricia Charlton, City West resident

“You don't know if you'll have 30 days or 90 days before you have to move.”

— Judith Jones, City West resident

“Let them have peace. Let them stay in their homes where they've been for decades.”

— Brian Garry, Executive Director, Neighborhoods United

“I know people went down to City Hall, and they talked about 'Save City West', but that's exactly what we're doing through this process. We're saving City West.”

— Gregory Johnson, CEO, Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority

“The idea is that we are working with a partner that wants to work with the residents.”

— Gregory Johnson, CEO, Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority

What’s next

CMHA plans to meet with City West residents before signing any purchase agreement for the 105 units. The housing authority says it wants to ensure the buyer has the residents' best interests in mind.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the challenges of balancing the need for affordable housing renovations with the concerns of long-term residents who fear being displaced. CMHA's commitment to protecting residents and working with a buyer who will prioritize their needs will be crucial in determining the outcome for the City West community.