Southern Park Mall's "Operational Safety Concerns": A Symptom of a Bigger Rot?
Kohan's Mall: A Case Study in Retail Instability
Southern Park Mall in Boardman, Ohio, experienced an unexpected closure on November 3rd, 2025, citing "operational safety concerns." While the mall reopened later that day, the incident raises serious questions about the long-term viability of the property under its current ownership, Kohan Retail Investment Group. The official explanation remains vague, but the timing and context paint a concerning picture.
The mall's closure, even temporary, sent ripples of anxiety through its tenants. Josh Langenheim, owner of Steel Valley Brew Works, articulated the sentiment perfectly: "I don’t know what the hell is going on, but this is crazy." Langenheim’s reaction isn’t just shock; it’s a symptom of a deeper unease about the mall's management and financial stability. He also noted that the closure didn't seem to be related to utilities, which raises the question: if not utilities, then what exactly caused the "operational safety concerns?" Southern Park Mall to reopen Monday afternoon after 'operational safety concerns'
The incident feels like a canary in a coal mine. While the mall reopened at 12:30 PM, the damage to tenant confidence is likely already done. The text message sent to employees, while apologetic, only added to the confusion. "We apologize for the inconvenience of today’s delay," reads the message from mall general manager Vince Tyler. It's a classic non-apology – acknowledging the inconvenience without actually explaining the reason for it.
The Taxman Cometh (and Kohan Doesn't Pay)
The timing of this closure is particularly troubling given Kohan Retail Investment Group's well-documented struggles with property taxes. Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree stated that Kohan's failure to pay overdue property taxes could cost the township between $250,000 and $300,000 annually. (That's 21.59% of the property taxes collected in the township, according to the Mahoning County auditor’s website.) This isn't just a minor accounting oversight; it's a significant financial strain on the local community.
Loree also pointed out that several payment attempts by Kohan have been rejected due to insufficient funds. How many attempts? What were the dates? The lack of transparency is deafening. It's like watching a slow-motion train wreck, and the passengers (the tenants, the employees, the community) are left in the dark.
And here's the part that I find genuinely puzzling: Loree mentioned the township reached out to Kohan Retail a few weeks prior with no response to provide a point of contact for the Energy Special Improvement District. This isn't just about taxes; it's about a complete lack of engagement with the local government and community stakeholders.
This begs a crucial question: if Kohan is struggling to meet its basic financial obligations and ignoring community partnerships, how can it possibly ensure the long-term operational safety and viability of Southern Park Mall?
A Potential Silver Lining?
Despite the bleak outlook, Loree offers a glimmer of hope. Should the mall "go under," he believes the property won't sit vacant for long, citing its commercial zoning, access to major highways, and existing infrastructure. He suggests potential reuses, including light manufacturing or redevelopment as a lifestyle center.
It's a rational assessment, but let's be real: redevelopment is a messy and uncertain process. While the location is undoubtedly valuable, attracting new investment and navigating zoning regulations can take years. The community could be facing a prolonged period of economic disruption.
The anecdotal data from the tenants also paints a mixed picture. While Langenheim expressed concern, he also stated that Steel Valley Brew Works, which operates with its own exterior entrance, was not directly affected by the shutdown. Businesses with separate entrances—JCPenney, Macy’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Planet Fitness—opened as scheduled. This suggests that the "operational safety concerns" were localized to the main mall structure, but it doesn't alleviate the broader anxieties about Kohan's management.
Kohan's Mall: A Dead Mall Walking?
The closure of Southern Park Mall, even for a few hours, is more than just an isolated incident. It's a symptom of a larger rot—financial instability, lack of communication, and a potential disregard for community partnerships. While the property may eventually find new life, the immediate future looks uncertain, and the tenants and community are left to foot the bill for Kohan's mismanagement.
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