Who We Are
The Miles Heights Development Corporation (MHDC) is the community service organization responsible for promoting, developing and preserving the Lee-Seville neighborhood in Cleveland's Ward 1.
Through partnerships with residents, businesses, and public stakeholders, MHDC works to preserve the character of this historic neighborhood while paving the way for a thriving, sustainable future. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant Lee-Seville, one project, one family, and one business at a time.
Our Mission
To cultivate sustainable growth and enhance quality of life for residents of Cleveland’s Lee-Seville neighborhood. Through strategic partnerships, innovative programs, and community-driven initiatives, we aim to create opportunities for economic, social, and cultural enrichment.
Our Vision
We envision a thriving, connected, inclusive, and sustainable community where every resident has access to quality housing, viable economic opportunities, and adequate resources to achieve their fullest potential.
Our Core Values
Community First – We prioritize the needs, voices, and aspirations of the Lee-Seville community in all our initiatives.
Equity & Inclusion – We are committed to creating opportunities for all residents, ensuring fair access to housing, economic development, and resources.
Sustainable Growth – We promote responsible development that enhances long-term prosperity while preserving the character and history of the neighborhood.
Collaboration – We believe in the power of partnerships with residents, businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies to drive meaningful change.
Integrity & Transparency – We operate with honesty, accountability, and openness in all our decisions and actions.
Economic Empowerment – We support entrepreneurship, workforce development, and financial stability to strengthen the community’s economic foundation.
Innovation & Adaptability – We embrace new ideas and strategies to address challenges and create sustainable solutions for neighborhood revitalization.
Safe, Thriving Neighborhood – We advocate for quality housing, infrastructure, and public spaces that promote safety, well-being, and community pride.
Strategic Goals and Objectives
As determined through extensive meetings with residents throughout 2024 at Lee-Seville-Miles Citizens Council and online with surveys in 2023 and 2024, via Friends of The Village of Miles Heights Inc.
Economic Development
- Support and attract small businesses through grants, technical assistance, and networking opportunities.
- Advocate for workforce development programs and job training partnerships with local businesses and institutions.
- Promote commercial corridor revitalization by attracting investment and improving infrastructure.
Housing and Development
- Rehabilitate existing housing units for low- and moderate-income families.
- Provide homeownership assistance, including financial literacy programs and down payment support.
- Partner with the city and private developers to address vacant and blighted properties.
- Preserve and restore historic homes and landmarks throughout the neighborhood.
Engagement and Services
- Establish strong neighborhood networks by hosting forums, town halls, and community events.
- Support youth development programs focused on education, mentorship, and career readiness.
- Enhance public safety through conflict resolution training, mediation services, collaboration with law enforcement and community-led initiatives.
Environmental Sustainability
- Advocate for energy efficient homes and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
- Significantly increase carbon offsetting initiatives.
- Promote green spaces, urban agriculture, and sustainability initiatives.
- Improve access to healthy food, healthcare, and essential community resources.
- Explore paths to reduced waste and renewable energy.
Implementation and Timeline
- Short-term (0-2 years): Launch pilot programs for business support, homeownership assistance, and community engagement efforts.
- Mid-term (2-5 years): Expand rehabilitative housing plans, establish workforce partnerships, and implement infrastructure improvements.
- Long-term (5+ years): Achieve significant economic growth, full-scale neighborhood revitalization, and a self-sustaining local economy.
Key Partners and Stakeholders
- Current and former residents of the Lee-Seville neighborhood
- Local Business Owners and Entrepreneurs
- City of Cleveland, Cuyahoga County & Local Government Agencies
- Nonprofit Organizations & Community Groups
- Private Developers & Financial Institutions
- Educational Institutions & Workforce Development Agencies
- Local Faith-Based Organizations
How We Measure Program Success
- Increased homeownership rates and reduction in blighted properties and vacant lands
- Full CDBG services for seniors and qualifying homeowners
- Increased growth in the number of local businesses and job opportunities
- Enhanced community participation and improved quality of life metrics
- Growth of neighborhood urban tree canopy
- Upgraded signage, branding and neighborhood marketing
Our Partners
Join our network of trusted partners today!
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