Tom McNair succeeds Eric Wobser as leader of Ohio City Inc.
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Tom McNair is the new executive director of Ohio City Inc. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Ohio City Inc., one of Cleveland's largest and most active community development corporations, has opted for a leader who knows the neighborhood.
Tom McNair, 38, was elevated to the role of executive director by the corporation's board of trustees Wednesday night. He had been serving as acting executive director since Eric Wobser, his predecessor, left in June to become city manager of Sandusky.
McNair will assume an economic leadership role in one of Cleveland's most diverse and vibrant neighborhoods. Ohio City, a mixed-income community just over the Cuyahoga River from downtown, has exploded in recent years into a constellation of restaurants, bars, breweries, cafes and ice cream parlors radiating out from the century-old West Side Market.
Ohio City Inc. works with neighborhood businesses and residents to attract investment, plan development and enhance safety. With a $1 million annual budget and a full-time staff of 10, it's one of the largest development corporations in the city.
McNair emerged as the top candidate in a nationwide search that attracted 45 applicants, four of whom were interviewed, trustees said.
"It was absolutely clear that Tom is the best candidate for the position," said JoAnn Uhlik, an Ohio City homeowner and president of the corporation's board of trustees. "He is really very passionate about the work and the community."
McNair, an architect, has worked for Ohio City Inc. for four years, previously as its director of economic development and planning. He lives in Cleveland's Shaker Square neighborhood with his wife and two children and takes the train to work each day.
He said he expects Ohio City to continue to draw strength from its Rapid Transit station at West 25th Street and its numerous bus lines.
"We're going to be looking for smart growth in this neighborhood," he said.
McNair will be responsible for initiating a newly completed strategic plan, one that calls for a more comprehensive approach to development in a neighborhood known for nightlife.
"We want to make sure we maintain being a family-friendly neighborhood in the city," he said.
