Concerns over the proposed road layout dominated the City of Dayton Council meeting on November 26, 2024, as residents and council members grappled with the implications of a master plan that could significantly impact local homes and businesses.

The discussion centered on the alignment of Dayton Parkway, which many residents believe threatens their properties. One council member expressed frustration, stating, “I look at this and just shake my head because we have houses there that are not gonna be going anywhere anytime soon.” This sentiment was echoed by residents who voiced their fears about the potential loss of their homes and the character of the community.

Scott Schutte, a long-time resident, passionately argued against the current road plan, suggesting that alternative routes could avoid residential areas altogether. He emphasized the emotional toll on families, stating, “This is more than a house. I grew up there.” Another resident, April Johnson Richter, echoed these concerns, highlighting the impact on her family’s legacy and the community’s rural charm.

Council members acknowledged the challenges of balancing development with the preservation of existing neighborhoods. They debated whether to revise the road layout or scrap the plan entirely, with one member noting, “If the major objections are the road layout, do you want us to work on that more, or do you want to just scrap the plan?”

The council is now faced with a critical decision: to refine the transportation plan to better accommodate existing homes or to proceed with the current proposal, which many fear could lead to significant disruption. As the meeting concluded, the urgency for a thoughtful approach to development was clear, with residents and officials alike calling for a plan that respects the community’s history and future.