The Summit County Council convened on August 23, 2023, to discuss a proposed development project that has raised significant concerns among community members regarding density and visual impact. The council emphasized the importance of balancing the needs of the community with the developer's plans, particularly focusing on how the project would affect neighboring properties.

A key point of discussion was the need for the developer to revise their site plan to better integrate the project into the landscape. Council members expressed a desire for the buildings to be set lower into the ground to mitigate height and visual impact, especially near existing trees that provide natural buffering. The council urged the developer to return with a modified plan that addresses these concerns while maintaining the project's affordability goals.

The conversation also touched on the project's affordability metrics, specifically the Area Median Income (AMI) levels. Council members highlighted the challenge of providing affordable housing in the area, noting that reducing the number of units could lead to higher AMI levels, which may not serve the community's needs effectively. They stressed the importance of ensuring that any adjustments to the project do not compromise the availability of affordable housing options.

In addition to the site plan revisions, the council proposed that the developer engage with the community through an open house to gather feedback and address concerns directly. This approach aims to foster transparency and collaboration between the developer and residents, ensuring that the final project aligns with community expectations.

As the meeting concluded, the council agreed to schedule a follow-up session to review the revised plans and make a decision. This ongoing dialogue reflects the council's commitment to balancing development with the needs and concerns of Summit County residents, as they work towards sustainable and inclusive growth in the area.