Ongoing discussions between Lorain Mayor Jack Bradley and Republic Steel’s parent company have given the city “a ray of hope” that one of the city’s largest former employers may be up and running again in as little as a year, officials said. Republic Steel’s parent company, Grupo Simec, which is headquartered in Guadalajara, Mexico, “has engaged in encouraging discussions with several international steel producers interested in establishing operations in Lorain,” according to a news release issued by Alonna Lopez, executive assistant to Bradley. The Mexican family who owns Grupo, which does business in Lorain and Canton as Republic Steel, have been speaking to the city in near weekly meetings, Bradley said. Due to recently increased tariff prices, steel producers recognize a strategic and economic advantage in operating within the United States rather than producing steel in other countries. Lorain’s industrial infrastructure, workforce potential and strategic location make the city an attractive option for these prospective investors, according to the release At one time, Republic Steel’s facility was booming until it idled operations in 2021. Jobs were cut slowly until the facility was abandoned and left in disrepair, officials said. Eighteen months ago, the city obtained a search warrant for the property. The city’s administration couldn’t make contact with the owners of Republic at the time, and the warrant was executed to assess the buildings. Three to four buildings of the many buildings were beyond repair and nearly were demolished, Bradley said. The next steps will include a personal visit from the owner who resides abroad. The owner intends to ask for an electric usage estimate as a next step to potentially starting up operations in Lorain again, Bradley said. “He gave us some positive news,” the mayor said. “We are encouraged by the strong interest shown in Lorain as a site for renewed steel production. “Republic Steel has been working with FirstEnergy to guarantee that sufficient power can be delivered for steel production in Lorain.” Due to nondisclosure agreements, the mayor couldn’t divulge more information. However, he did say the businessman approved the notion of the public announcement. Early information shared with the city’s administration indicates the potential for significant economic impact with the possible reopening. Currently, job creation is estimated between 500 and 1, 200 positions, marking what could be one of the most substantial industrial revitalization efforts in the region in recent years, Bradley said. “The city of Lorain will continue to collaborate closely with Grupo Simec and prospective steel partners as discussions advance,” he said.
https://www.morningjournal.com/2025/11/25/republic-steel-in-lorain-could-reopen-next-year/
Tag: revitalization
Three new businesses part of Brookfield revitalization
**Brookfield Experiences Growth Surge Amid Revitalization Efforts**
The town of Brookfield is witnessing a significant growth surge thanks to its revitalization initiatives aimed at attracting companies looking to relocate or expand their businesses in the area.
“Brookfield has experienced higher-than-historical-average growth since potable water mains were installed along the Federal Road corridor about 15 years ago,” said Greg Dembowski, Brookfield’s Economic Development Director.
Since 2016, 705 housing units have been constructed across 13 multi-housing developments, all situated along Federal Road. This growth accelerated following the implementation of the town’s revitalization plan, crafted as part of the 2015 Plan of Conservation and Development. The plan included zoning regulation changes that allowed for mixed-use development, further encouraging growth.
With the influx of new housing developments, the town has also welcomed two new grocery stores, dozens of retail shops, medical and personal care services, professional businesses, light manufacturing facilities, and restaurants.
Recently, Brookfield celebrated the grand opening of three new businesses: a family-focused swim instruction center, a family-owned and operated restaurant, and a premier wine and spirits retailer.
“Brookfield continues to demonstrate smart, sustainable growth that benefits residents and businesses alike,” said Maura Ruby, President & CEO of the Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce.
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### LIVE2SWIM Opens in Brookfield
Located at 94 Old State Road, LIVE2SWIM is a year-round children’s swim school dedicated to teaching lifesaving swimming skills in a clean, comfortable, and child-friendly environment.
“It’s an honor to bring LIVE2SWIM to Brookfield. We’re excited to join this amazing community and to play a role in helping children build lifelong water safety skills, confidence, and a true love for swimming,” said Dylan Elkind, the school’s principal.
The facility has been renovated to include a new viewing area, updated shower and restroom facilities, a game room, and more, creating a welcoming space for children and their families.
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### Brookfield Grill: A Family-Run Dining Experience
Brookfield Grill, located at 450 Federal Road, is a family-run restaurant featuring a diverse menu that includes steak, fish, chicken, a raw bar, salads, a kids’ menu, and an extensive dessert selection.
“Our family has been in the restaurant business for 35 years, and we are proud to have one of the area’s best chefs on our team,” said Avni Brahimaj, proprietor of Brookfield Grill.
Maura Ruby, who attended the restaurant’s grand opening, praised the establishment as a great addition to the community. “It’s always wonderful to support a family-run business. The owners have crafted a quality menu that will satisfy a wide range of tastes, from family dining to more refined options. This thoughtful addition highlights the kind of businesses that contribute to Brookfield’s vibrant community,” she stated.
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### Total Wine & More Brings a Premier Wine Shopping Experience
Total Wine & More, known as America’s Wine Superstore, is the country’s largest independent retailer of fine wine. The Brookfield location spans 25,000 square feet and offers an extensive selection focusing on fine wines.
Most Total Wine stores carry more than 8,000 different wines from every wine-producing region worldwide. The store also features over 2,500 beers, ranging from popular American brands to rare microbrews and imports, as well as more than 3,000 different spirits.
In addition to wine and spirits, the Brookfield store offers a cigar shop and a spacious workshop/event area.
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### Looking Ahead: Continued Growth and Development
Brookfield’s revitalization strategy includes strategic infrastructure investments and zoning updates that appeal to dynamic companies, supporting the town’s diverse and expanding local economy.
“Three residential developments will be opening before the end of 2025,” Greg Dembowski shared. “They are The Willows at Brookfield at 518 Federal Road, Overland Crossing at 101 Laurel Hill Road, and Marin Village at 468 Federal Road. Property managers are currently accepting applications, and more than 180 individuals have expressed interest.”
The town is actively encouraging growth in areas that bring new jobs and opportunities to the community, ensuring a prosperous future for Brookfield and its residents.
https://westfaironline.com/latest-news/three-new-businesses-part-of-brookfield-revitalization/
Solo Sikoa to introduce WWE megastar as the missing part of MFT? Exploring the possibility
Solo Sikoa Could Completely Shift the Dynamic of WWE SmackDown Soon
After losing the United States Championship to Sami Zayn on the August 29 episode of SmackDown, Solo Sikoa, known as The Street Champion, has been regrouping with his MFTs (Maximum Family Ties) in a series of cryptic vignettes. Over the past three weeks, Sikoa has reintroduced Tonga Loa, JC Mateo, and Talla Tonga to the WWE Universe. The 32-year-old thanked them for their loyalty and acknowledged their contributions to the faction.
However, last week, Sikoa hinted that something is missing from his family. He claimed that once he has that missing part, everyone will be on notice. This mysterious reference has sparked significant speculation among fans and insiders alike.
### Could The Rock Be the Missing Piece?
One shocking possibility is that the missing piece Solo mentioned could be none other than The Rock. Last year, on October 5, The Rock made a memorable return to WWE following the main event of Bad Blood 2024. In that match, Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns defeated Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fatu in a tag team bout. After the match, The Brahma Bull walked out and stared down everyone in the ring from the stage.
Although many fans criticized this moment for lacking any immediate payoff, recent developments suggest it could finally lead to something significant. During The Rock’s return, Solo Sikoa was shown in the crowd, hinting that it was all part of some larger plan. Now, over a year later, Solo — known as The Final Boss — could be revealed as the ultimate mastermind behind the MFT.
Sikoa’s faction has struggled to live up to expectations and is in desperate need of revitalization. Introducing The Rock as the leader would instantly raise the group’s profile and “put everyone on notice,” as Solo himself claimed. While many fans expect Tama Tonga to be revealed as the missing piece of the MFT, WWE’s creative team might surprise everyone with a swerve by bringing The Great One into the mix.
That said, this remains purely speculative at this point.
### Former WWE Writer Criticizes Solo Sikoa’s Video Packages on SmackDown
As mentioned earlier, Solo Sikoa has been building momentum for his stable through video packages on SmackDown over the past few weeks. In one segment, The Street Champion urged Talla Tonga to “unleash the monster inside” and destroy anyone who stands in the MFT’s path.
Despite the hype, former WWE writer Vince Russo has expressed criticism of these vignettes. Speaking on last week’s episode of Sportskeeda WrestleBinge’s “BroDown” hosted by Mac Davis, Russo argued that the creative team is booking the faction backward.
He stated,
“It’s comical to me that now we’re doing Solo Sikoa and his whole group — and now we’re doing vignettes on these guys, and now introducing these guys — how many months after the fact? Isn’t that the first thing you’re supposed to do? Shouldn’t we have had Solo introduce these guys one by one before we saw them as a group? That right there just tells you they have no clue what they’re doing. You don’t give these guys introductions after you’ve seen them on television for six months. That doesn’t make any sense.”
### Looking Ahead
Despite the criticisms, it will be intriguing to see what the future holds for Solo Sikoa and his villainous stable on WWE SmackDown. Whether or not The Rock becomes involved, the MFT is clearly heading toward a pivotal moment that could reshape the blue brand’s landscape.
Stay tuned for further updates as this storyline develops.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/solo-sikoa-introduce-wwe-megastar-missing-part-mft-exploring-possibility