In a recent Summit County Council meeting, the discussion turned to the pressing issue of housing needs in the community, highlighting a desire to shift the responsibility of housing solutions from government officials to experts in the field. Council members expressed a collective concern that relying solely on political decisions may not yield the best outcomes for the community's housing challenges.

One council member emphasized the importance of expert involvement, stating, “We have a housing need just like we have a need for transportation solutions.” This sentiment underscored a belief that while the government has made strides in addressing housing, there is room for improvement by allowing specialists to guide the process. The council member pointed out that the current approach, which has often revolved around an arbitrary figure of 800 housing units, lacks clarity and direction. “I don’t even know what that means,” they remarked, questioning whether this number signifies a halt or a continuation of housing efforts.

The conversation also touched on the county's long-standing commitment to affordable housing, with a council member noting that their deed restriction program is one of the oldest in the state. They argued that housing should not be dictated by elected officials but rather managed by an expert committee that can provide informed recommendations. “It shouldn’t be elected officials’ decision on how many numbers that is,” they asserted, advocating for a model similar to the county's successful partnerships in developing its trail systems.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the council is seeking a new path forward—one that involves collaboration with experts rather than relying solely on governmental oversight. This shift could potentially lead to more effective housing solutions that better meet the needs of the community, ensuring that the focus remains on sustainable and impactful development. The council's commitment to addressing housing challenges reflects a broader recognition that, as they put it, “housing is something we always will need to focus on.”