The sudden passing of Cuyahoga Land Bank founder Gus Frangos in August left an irreplaceable void. His visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to revitalizing Cuyahoga County had a profound impact on countless lives. As the architect of Ohio’s land bank legislation, Frangos has a legacy that extends far beyond the borders of our county, shaping the trajectory of communities across the state.
His partnership with former County Treasurer Jim Rokakis in establishing the nation’s first county land bank marked a turning point in urban revitalization. Frangos’ tireless efforts to acquire and repurpose tax-delinquent properties have breathed new life into neighborhoods and spurred economic growth.
In the wake of his loss, many organizations have paid tribute to Frangos’ invaluable contributions. The following examples highlight the diverse ways in which his memory is being honored.
The Northeast Ohio First Suburbs Consortium (FSC) recently presented its annual Montlack Visionary Leader Award posthumously to Frangos and the Land Bank received the FSC’s Visionary Program/Project Award. Inner-ring Cleveland suburbs hit hard by the nation’s 2008 foreclosure crisis have bounced back, thanks, in large part, to work by Frangos and the Land Bank. Frangos’s wife, Christie, and son, John, accepted the leadership award on his behalf at an awards ceremony November 6 at the Mayfield Sand Ridge Club in Lyndhurst.
The Building and Leveraging Opportunities (BLO) Foundation recently unveiled its second completed affordable housing project named the Gus Gold Door Initiative in honor of Frangos. The nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives and revitalizing communities through impactful initiatives partnered with the Land Bank on both of its first two housing projects, which were also awarded grant funding from Cuyahoga Land Bank Charities. “Gus was one of the first partners to believe in our mission,” Orlando Grant, BLO Foundation Board Chair, said.
Greater CLE Habitat for Humanity, which has partnered with the Land Bank on countless affordable projects over the years, recognized Frangos with its Community Partner Award at its annual meeting in November. “Gus’s deep faith inspired him to a life of incredible service that impacted countless people and families throughout Cuyahoga County and beyond. Under his leadership, the Land Bank has been a perfect partner to Greater Cleveland Habitat,” read its tribute.
Brookdale Orchard, a space comprising 58 gardens on 14,650 square feet of land in Cleveland’s Hough neighborhood, promotes fresh food sources and preserves the natural environment for peaceful community growth and gatherings. Created on land donated by the Land Bank, the Orchard and its founder Mittie Jordan recently dedicated a garden to Gus and praised his steadfast belief in the organization’s mission.
Frangos and his leadership will also be celebrated at the Ohio Land Bank Association annual conference in April. Frangos served as OLBA Board of Directors president from 2018-2022.
The Cuyahoga Land Bank is deeply grateful to the numerous organizations and individuals who have honored the legacy of Gus Frangos. These tributes not only celebrate his life and work but also inspire us to continue his mission of transforming communities. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who has taken the time to commemorate Gus’s invaluable contributions.