Ohio Considers $300M Mental Health Center at Former Hara Arena Site, Facing Local Opposition
A proposed $300 million behavioral health center at the site of the former Hara Arena in Trotwood and Harrison Township, Ohio, is sparking disagreement between the two municipalities, with Trotwood officials voicing opposition and Harrison Township leaders expressing support.
Yesterday, Trotwood Mayor Yvette Page released a statement indicating the city council opposes locating the facility at the Hara Arena site, despite acknowledging the need for expanded mental health services in the state. “We respect and understand the importance of expanding mental health services in Ohio,” Page said. “However, placing a forensic facility at the former Hara Arena site does not align with our vision for economic revitalization, job creation, and quality of life improvements for Trotwood residents.” The city is seeking an alternative location within Trotwood for the project, stating they are not opposed to the facility itself. Access to mental healthcare is a growing concern nationwide, and this project represents a significant potential investment in Ohio’s resources.
Harrison Township trustees, however, view the project as a potential boon for the region, particularly following the devastation of the 2019 Memorial Day tornadoes. Township spokesman Nathan Edwards stated, “We view this opportunity, specifically at the Hara Arena site — a site that was hit by the 2019 Memorial Day tornadoes — as an opportunity for a phoenix-rising-from-the-ashes type of moment.” He estimated the project could generate approximately 500 jobs and $126 million in payroll, alongside the initial $300 million investment. Edwards also disputed Trotwood’s characterization of the center as a “forensic” facility, clarifying it would be a broader behavioral health center specializing in mental health rehabilitation. You can learn more about mental health resources through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
Property owner Michael Heitz first indicated state representatives approached him regarding the site in May, but a sale is not yet finalized. The Ohio Controlling Board is scheduled to meet on October 20 to consider approving the state’s potential purchase of the property. The Ohio Department of Behavioral Health has not yet responded to requests for comment.
