Ashland University’s push to vacate half of Jefferson Street sparked debate Tuesday. The city council meeting stretched nearly an hour as Burger King raised alarms. The university wants to turn the street into a pedestrian path and parking lot. Burger King fears losing customers who zip in from Broad Street. Both sides laid out their cases before the Board of Revisions and Assessment. Now, the issue heads to council’s March 18 agenda for a final call.
Rick Ewing, AU’s operations VP, said paving a gravel lot drives the plan. He added that closing Jefferson Street boosts student safety. Burger King’s team, including 30-year employee Mindy Sheriff, pushed back. She and lawyer Joseph Kearns claimed 20% of customers use that route. Without hard numbers, though, councilors asked Burger King for solid data. The board—made up of the mayor, law director, and finance director—passed it to council.
Burger King’s Business at Stake
Burger King worries about its bottom line. Sheriff and Kearns said losing Jefferson Street could dent sales. They lack proof so far, but council wants facts. Dan Lawson, a council member, said good data leads to smart choices. Meanwhile, AU’s timeline looms tight. Ewing hopes to finish the lot over summer break. For Burger King, the stakes feel high as council weighs the move.
Mayor Matt Miller said AU has worked with neighbors, like a rental property owner. That owner gets a paved driveway and better access, Ewing noted. Miller praised AU’s effort but said Burger King’s side needs more voice. Kearns learned of the meeting late, he claimed. Miller countered they’d spoken last week. Either way, Burger King wants time to gather figures.
Ashland University’s Campus Vision
AU’s plan isn’t new—it started two years ago. Back then, the board sent it back for compromise. Now, Ewing says they’ve listened. The university’s beautification spree includes this shift. In 2023, AU and the city swapped an alley for a public driveway. For AU, vacating Jefferson Street fits a bigger goal. But Burger King sees a threat. City law director Richard Wolfe flagged traffic flow issues. Still, he urged council to decide.
Finance director Larry Paxton suggested another meeting. He said it gives AU and Burger King a last chance to talk. The issue won’t fade, he warned. Councilors agreed—data from Burger King could tip the scales. For now, both sides brace for March 18.
Luis Gochoco is a seasoned managing editor and writer with over a decade of experience covering politics, technology, gaming, and entertainment news. With a keen eye for breaking stories and in-depth analysis, he has established himself as a trusted voice in digital journalism. Luis is one of the key forces behind the success of GameNGuide, contributing to 12 million views through engaging and high-traffic content. He also played a pivotal role in generating 8 million views on International Business Times, shaping the platform’s technology and gaming coverage.
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