During a recent meeting of the Eastern Summit County Planning Commission, community concerns about a proposed development of up to 5,000 homes were front and center. Local resident Richard Schmidt voiced strong opposition to the density of the project, emphasizing that 4,300 homes would be excessive for the area. He expressed a desire for future generations, including his grandchildren, to remain connected to the agricultural roots of the community, but he stressed the need for affordable housing options.

Schmidt highlighted a pressing issue related to the anticipated increase in trespassing incidents that could arise from such a large development. He recounted past experiences with trespassing on his property, noting that the influx of new residents could exacerbate these problems significantly. "If you think about the number of properties you're talking about, we might as well throw in the towel on that," he warned, indicating that the community could face serious challenges if developers do not take responsibility for mitigating these issues.

The discussion reflects broader concerns among residents about maintaining the character and safety of their neighborhoods amidst rapid growth. As the Planning Commission continues to evaluate the proposal, the community is eager to see how their voices will influence the final decisions regarding development in Eastern Summit County.