During the recent meeting of the Eastern Summit County Planning Commission on May 16, 2024, significant concerns were raised regarding a proposed development plan that includes 1,800 homes in the region. The discussions highlighted the potential impact of such a large-scale project on the local community, particularly in terms of housing affordability and environmental sustainability.

Commissioners expressed skepticism about the development's benefits, noting that the proposed homes, even at a median size of 1,500 square feet, would vastly exceed the current housing stock and overwhelm local resources. One commissioner pointed out that the total area for the proposed homes would be nearly four times larger than a smaller alternative plan of 200 homes, raising alarms about the strain on infrastructure and community services.

A key point of contention was the affordability of the proposed homes, with estimates starting at $400,000, which many commissioners argued is beyond the financial reach of most residents in Eastern Summit County. This concern was compounded by the observation that the local school system graduates only a small number of students each year, suggesting that the demand for housing is being driven more by external factors than by the needs of the existing community.

The commissioners emphasized the importance of creating housing that supports local families, particularly those who wish to stay in the area after graduation. The overwhelming scale of the proposed development was seen as a threat to the character of the community and a potential displacement of current residents.

In addition to housing concerns, the meeting also touched on infrastructure issues, particularly regarding the local water system, which currently serves approximately 240 homes. The proximity of the proposed Cedar Crest development to this water system raised additional questions about capacity and sustainability.

As the planning commission continues to evaluate the proposal, the discussions from this meeting underscore the need for careful consideration of community needs and the long-term implications of large-scale developments in rural areas. The commission's next steps will likely involve further analysis of the proposal's impact on local residents and resources, as well as ongoing dialogue with community stakeholders.