Coventry Neighbors,
Inc. (CNI) was a civic betterment organization that was instrumental
in shaping the Coventry Village community that we know today.
When CNI was formed in 1969, it was to address concerns that
many residents had with the apartment building stock of the
neighborhood. Rents were rising, however the maintenance and
upkeep of some buildings were declining. CNI soon realized
that true community revitalization required a knowledgeable
and involved citizenry. CNI provided an outlet where concerned
residents could band together and intelligently work for a
better Coventry neighborhood and in turn, a greater Cleveland
Heights.
Coventry
Neighbors was dedicated to the principle that community betterment
is a non-partisan goal that requires teamwork and cooperation
among the principal “players” of civic life. Neighbors,
property owners, tenants, the business community, and City
Hall were encouraged to work together intelligently. During
the organization’s “heyday,” CNI representatives
regularly attended City Council and other decision-making
bodies such as the Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning
Appeals and took stands on important issues of the day.
Coventry Neighbors is probably known for the long-running
monthly publication, the “Coventry Village News”
and the original Coventry Village Street Fair. As with most
anything in life there are beginnings and endings and the
CNI days ended. When Coventry Neighbors was “put to
bed,” their archives were donated to the Cleveland Heights
Historical Society so that a pivotal point in Cleveland Heights
would not be forgotten. Cleveland Heights is fortunate to
have this treasure trove of history preserved.