During a recent special meeting of the Summit County Council, community members voiced strong opinions regarding a proposed development project by Dakota Pacific. The discussions highlighted concerns about resource management, traffic, and the overall impact of new housing on the community.

Bryce McCaleb, a resident of Redstone, raised critical questions about the sustainability of the development, particularly regarding water resources and landscaping regulations. He emphasized the need for the council to consider whether new developments are consuming resources efficiently and suggested that the council should not proceed with the current project until these issues are addressed.

Another resident, Jim Tetford, cautioned against approving any development beyond a tech center, warning that it could lead to a surge of new proposals from developers. He urged the council to maintain strict zoning regulations to prevent overwhelming the community with unchecked growth.

Cynthia Baxter, a resident of Crestview Condominiums, shared her frustrations about existing traffic congestion, particularly during winter months. She expressed skepticism about the community benefits of the proposed development, arguing that the burden of funding improvements should not fall on local residents. Baxter also questioned the necessity of Dakota Pacific's involvement, suggesting that the upcoming Olympics should be sufficient leverage for traffic improvements from UDOT.

Bob Jacko, another community member, acknowledged the efforts of both the council and Dakota Pacific but expressed a willingness to accept the development as a beneficial use of the land, despite not being his ideal scenario. He advocated for increased density in housing to alleviate traffic issues, arguing that the location is well-suited for such development due to its proximity to transit and amenities.

Bonnie Park, a resident of Park Meadows, echoed concerns about the need for better traffic management and suggested that the project should not be tied solely to UDOT's improvement plans. She highlighted the importance of creating a community that accommodates diverse lifestyles, particularly for older residents seeking a resort-like living experience.

The meeting underscored a clear divide among residents regarding the proposed development, with many calling for more stringent oversight and a focus on community needs. As discussions continue, the council faces the challenge of balancing development interests with the concerns of residents who prioritize sustainability and quality of life in Summit County.