Editor’s note: The Canton Repository is asking leaders in every Stark County township, village and city to share some highlights of what they have planned in 2026 for their communities. We will present these community highlights to you throughout the next several weeks.
MINERVA − Minerva residents have a busy year ahead.
In 2026, the village is continuing programs to support property owners in painting and exterior upgrades and to encourage new homeownership. The new year also brings a bridge upgrade at Minerva Municipal Park and various community events.
Here’s what’s happening in the village of about 3,700 people at the intersection of Stark, Carroll and Columbiana counties:
Downtown revitalization grant program bringing upgrades this year
The downtown revitalization program is designed to financially support businesses and property owners in the downtown area with improvements.
Village Administrator Greg Mytinger said the goal of the grant program is to “enhance the appearance and historic character” of the downtown area.
Qualifying improvements include updating signage, awning repairs or replacements, window restoration and exterior painting.
Over $300,000 in downtown upgrades are expected to be completed by this summer, Mytinger said.
As part of the effort to revitalize downtown, the bell tower on Village Hall was recently upgraded with new siding, trim repairs and new color-changing LED bistro lights.
Minerva offering incentive for new homeowners
Last year, Minerva assisted five families in purchasing homes in the village.
The housing initiative allows qualified buyers that work within the Minerva Local School District purchasing homes within the village to get up to $5,000 in closing cost assistance.
The initiative is a collaboration between the village, Consumers National Bank and the Minerva Growth Corporation. Buyers must apply for and receive a mortgage through Consumers National Bank.
Mytinger said the village wants to encourage homeownership and strengthen Minerva’s neighborhoods through the program.
Additional criteria apply. Contact Consumers National Bank to begin the process.
Pedestrian bridge replacement underway in Minerva Municipal Park
An aging pedestrian bride crossing Sandy Creek in Minerva Municipal Park has been removed and construction of a new steel-bream bridge is underway.
The project will be complete by June.
The new bridge will provide a wider space to accommodate bicycles. The bridge replacement was partially funded by Stark Parks as part of the Minerva Connector Trail project.
Community painting initiative continues into 2026
The “Make Minerva More” initiative aims to assist homeowners with exterior residential painting projects. It’s a partnership with Habitat for Humanity, the Minerva Community Charitable Fund and Hope Community.
“The program helps improve neighborhood appearance and strengthen community pride by assisting residents who may not otherwise be able to complete these upgrades,” Mytinger said.
The village helped paint two homes in 2025 and hopes to complete more in 2026 as funding and volunteer capacity grow.
To apply, visit the village website or contact the village at 330-868-7705, extension 158.
Nights on North Market among Minerva events planned for 2026
There are over 45 gatherings planned in 2026 by the village and community partners. Mytinger said there’s “something for everyone.”
Special events include downtown car shows, Roxy Theater productions, festivals and other community celebrations.
The free Nights on North Market event, held on the second Friday of each month beginning in May, will to return this year with more live music, additional food trucks, family-friendly activities and expanded local shopping options.
July’s event will be Minerva Alumni Night, with activities planned to welcome returning Minerva alumni and celebrate the community.
Visit the Discover Minerva app for more event information. The app also provides notifications, emergency alerts and updates on village projects and services.
Reach Grace at 330-580-8364 or [email protected] Follow her on X @GraceSpringer16.
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