In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around a proposed residential development at 21 Chevy Chase Court, which has faced significant scrutiny due to its history and potential impact on the surrounding community. The applicant, Frank Edwards, expressed his desire to build a home for his family, emphasizing his commitment to engaging with neighbors and addressing their concerns.

The project has a contentious past, having been presented to the Planning Commission and City Council twice before. The first proposal in 1983 for a 1,753 square foot residence was approved but later withdrawn following neighborhood opposition. A second attempt in 2000 for a larger, three-story home was also approved by the Planning Commission but ultimately denied after an appeal from neighbors, primarily due to concerns over grading and the size of the proposed structure.

During the meeting, neighbors raised significant concerns regarding the steep slope of the property, which is at a 55% grade. Mike Reese, a resident living above the proposed site, questioned the integrity of the hill and the potential risks associated with the construction. He requested clarity on the geotechnical assessments conducted to ensure safety and stability.

Another neighbor, John McKernan, criticized the notification process for the meeting, stating that many residents were unaware of the proposal until shortly before the meeting. He expressed strong opposition to the scale of the proposed home, which exceeds the neighborhood's typical size, and highlighted that the current zoning allows for a maximum of 700 square feet, while the applicant is seeking to build over 3,000 square feet.

The commission acknowledged the concerns raised and clarified that the meeting was not for approval or denial of the project but rather to gather feedback from the community. They assured residents that further opportunities for public input would be provided in future meetings, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in the planning process.

As the discussion continues, the fate of the proposed development remains uncertain, with significant community opposition and regulatory hurdles ahead.