During a recent city commission meeting, residents voiced their concerns regarding the Harbour Town Planned Unit Development (PUD) and its associated sidewalk requirements. Brian Mazade, a resident of the Beachwood Bluffton neighborhood, expressed his support for the development but raised significant concerns about the financial implications of mandated sidewalks on West and East Harbour Town Circle. He estimated that the cost to implement these sidewalks could exceed several hundred thousand dollars, a figure he deemed \"cost prohibitive.\" Mazade warned that such expenses would likely deter the Harbour Town condo association from approving the project, potentially halting the construction of 28 new homes.

Following Mazade, Barb Bukit, a former president of the Harbour Town condo association, echoed his sentiments. She urged the commission to approve the development without the sidewalk requirement, suggesting instead the implementation of a pedestrian bike lane as a viable alternative. Bukit had previously communicated her objections to the sidewalk requirement in a letter to the commission.

The discussions surrounding the Harbour Town PUD highlight a growing tension between community development goals and the financial realities faced by local residents. As the commission deliberates on the proposed amendments, the outcome could significantly impact both the housing landscape and the community's infrastructure in the area.