05/09/2026
We at Testa Companies want to provide a clear update on the path forward for Northside Marketplace.
In light of recent posts and community concerns, Testa Companies have been in direct communication with Justin Lepley to fully understand the current state of Marketplace operations, since his takeover in 2022 until now including vendor payments and financial obligations. Through this process, it has become clear that the Marketplace has been operating at a significant loss for some time and despite his best efforts to keep it afloat, it is not sustainable in its current structure.
We also want to directly acknowledge the vendors who have not received payment for their sales. This situation is unacceptable, and we understand the real impact it has had on your businesses. Many of these funds were used to cover operational expenses in an effort to keep the Marketplace open, but that does not change our responsibility to make this right.
Because of this, Testa Companies has made the decision to step in and take back ownership and operational control of Northside Marketplace.
Moving forward, the Marketplace will transition into a nonprofit organization under a newly formed 501(c)(3), the Marketplace Foundation. Our goal is to create a vendor-led, community-controlled business, supported by a board of directors made up of Marketplace vendors and experienced outside advisors. We created this concept for the vendors and the community, so we feel it is only right to give them ownership and control of it.
Our immediate priorities are simple:
▪️Ensure vendors are paid
▪️Stabilize operations
▪️Rebuild trust
Effective immediately, 100% of all new sales proceeds will be paid out to vendors on a weekly basis.
In parallel, we will work directly with each individual vendor to reconcile and repay all outstanding balances as quickly and transparently as possible.
To support long-term success, we are also launching a mentorship program available to all vendors at no cost.
This will include weekly sessions focused on business development, marketing, sales, and financial management, along with opportunities for peer collaboration. These sessions will be led by Joel Testa and will include guest experts in various areas of business and personal development.
We are grateful that several respected, long-standing vendors have stepped forward to help lead this next chapter. Initial board members will include:
▪️Wesley (Akron Honey)
▪️ Preston (7th Floor Clothing)
▪️September (Elizabeth’s Bookshop & Writing Center)
Joel Testa will serve as Executive Director and will lead the mentorship and operational transition.
Over the next several weeks, we will work closely with Justin and his team to transition all accounts and assets, with a target completion by the end of June.
This is a reset, but more importantly, it’s an opportunity to rebuild the Marketplace the right way: with transparency, accountability, and a structure that ensures vendors come first, their voices are heard, and their funds are protected.
To our vendors and community: we hear you, and we are committed to helping you build the Marketplace you deserve.
More updates will be shared as progress continues.
Joel A Testa | President | Chief Operating Officer | Testa Companies
Our approach to property management has always been based on one thing – client satisfaction. Visit our website to learn more about our services, rentals, and homes for sale.
