Tuesday, Dec. 23: Clerical Error + The Banks Project + Senior Housing Crunch
Tuesday, Dec. 23
Your local news briefing
5 Headlines You Should Know Today
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Clerical error upends key evidence in Elwood Jones case.
A major error has come to light in the long-running Elwood Jones murder case in Hamilton County. The county coroner revealed Tuesday that key medical evidence used to grant Jones a new trial in 2022 and dismiss charges this month was incorrect. The original coroner’s report stated that victim Rhoda Nathan had hepatitis B—a detail central to the court’s reasoning that Jones, who had open wounds, would have contracted the virus if guilty. But Coroner Dr. Lakshmi Sammarco now says Nathan never had hepatitis, calling the claim a clerical mistake.
Banks development moving forward with denser urban design.
Plans for the next phase of The Banks development are progressing, with a formal request for proposals expected in 2026. Project executive Phil Beck says the team is refining the urban design unveiled in November, with an emphasis on higher density and mixed-use buildings. County Commissioner Denise Driehaus noted prior phases may have been under-built. Rising tariffs and a potential economic slowdown pose risks to the project’s timeline. Stakeholders remain undecided about the return of the once-popular Ferris wheel, citing concerns over compatibility with the Freedom Center.
Senior housing costs rising, options limited in Cincinnati.
In Greater Cincinnati, aging is becoming increasingly unaffordable. Nearly 60% of renters and 29% of homeowners over 65 are cost-burdened, often paying more than they can afford for housing. Realtor Carol Buckley urges clients to downsize before age 80, but many can’t find or afford suitable alternatives. The region now has one of the highest senior housing occupancy rates in the country, and ranks among the top three U.S. markets with the most barriers to new development—meaning demand is unlikely to be met anytime soon.
Civic engagement key to health equity, says Payne.
A new profile in Soapbox Cincinnati highlights efforts to close the life expectancy gap in Greater Cincinnati neighborhoods. Becky Payne, CEO of the Rippel Foundation, says the root causes of poor health are fractured systems that fail to meet basic needs like housing, jobs, and transportation. Her organization supports communities—including work at Cincinnati Children’s—by providing tools to invest in “vital conditions” for long-term well-being. Payne emphasizes fostering civic engagement as a first step. Her message: communities thrive when neighbors collaborate across divides.
Westin Fountain Square to undergo full renovation in 2026.
The Westin Cincinnati, a key fixture on Fountain Square, is set for a major renovation in 2026. Portman Holdings, which purchased the 456-room hotel in July, confirmed it will begin a full-scale overhaul in the second half of that year. The renovation will modernize guest rooms, bars, and restaurants to meet Westin brand standards. Hospitality firm HEI Hotels & Resorts will manage the property, including revamping its atrium eatery, Ingredients. The upgrade is part of broader downtown revitalization efforts, including a new convention hotel and retail expansion.
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