In a recent meeting held by the Olmsted Falls City School District, officials discussed significant developments regarding a contentious property owned by Grosse Builders, located between the middle and high schools. This 40-acre site has been embroiled in litigation, but Grosse Builders has emerged victorious, allowing them to pursue development plans that include the construction of 202 homes.
The proposal has raised eyebrows among school district officials, who expressed concerns about the implications of such a large residential project. The primary issue revolves around access and stormwater management. Currently, the only access point to the proposed development is via Badby Road, which lacks sufficient egress options. Officials noted that the county's zoning regulations could hinder the project due to these limitations.
Moreover, the school district is wary of the stormwater drainage plans proposed by Grosse Builders. The developers intend to channel stormwater from their new homes into a drainage ditch that runs through school property, specifically Mini Creek. This has sparked apprehension among district leaders, who have previously dealt with stormwater issues in the area. They emphasized their unwillingness to accept any project that could exacerbate stormwater runoff affecting school land or surrounding neighborhoods.
In addition to the Grosse Builders discussion, the meeting also touched on the ongoing plans for a new Board of Education building. The district is collaborating with the Carnegie Group to explore a build-lease option, with initial designs suggesting a footprint of approximately 9,700 square feet. Officials are optimistic about refining the design to better suit their needs, although negotiations regarding costs are still forthcoming.
As the meeting concluded, the sentiment among district leaders was clear: they remain committed to ensuring that any development in the area prioritizes the well-being of the community and the integrity of school property. The future of the Grosse Builders project remains uncertain, as it must navigate both county regulations and the district's firm stance on stormwater management.