It's been three months since Kohan Retail Investment Group purchased the Southern Park Mall property. It's taken until this week for them to talk with Boardman township trustees.

"I'm thrilled because when you don't hear from someone for months you assume the worst," Trustee Tom Costello said. "And that's what we were thinking."

Costello noted the group broke their silence days after 21 News reported that the council was considering whether to renew the mall's tax incentive for improvements made to the property.

Despite fearing the worst, Costello and two other township administrators scheduled a Tuesday meeting with Kohan Retail Investment Group to discuss their plans for the Southern Park Mall.

Costello tells 21 News he's now "cautiously optimistic" for the future of the mall.

"Rumors had been that mall stores were looking to escape or leave the mall. And I asked. And they said so far they've met with several of their tenants and have signed new leases. Including the big ones," he said.

At this time it is unclear what number of leases were renewed, which stores signed renewal contracts, or how the length of the lease agreements.

Kohan Retail Investment Group also inquired about the approval processes to continue hosting events at the mall during the summer season, including Ribs n Rock, car shows, food truck events, and future focus. They also suggested a potential proposal for a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area as part of future plans.

"They expressed to us the interest to have an event at DeBartolo Commons at least once a month. And that creates positive traffic," Costello said.

21 News requested comment from Kohan Retail Investment Group, but has not yet received a response.