Summit County tables conditional use permit for Hanover water pipeline project

The Summit County Eastern Planning Commission convened on April 17, 2025, to discuss a conditional use permit for a utility structure and water pipe project near Hanover. The project involves a water pipe with a diameter exceeding 12 inches and includes the construction of a dam and reservoir. The proposed site spans both unincorporated county land and the municipal boundaries of Henifer, complicating the approval process.

During the meeting, staff presented an overview of the project, highlighting its current status, which is approximately 80% complete. However, construction was halted after Summit County officials were notified of the ongoing work without the necessary permits. The staff recommended tabling the permit request due to insufficient information needed for a thorough review, particularly concerning compliance with engineering codes and public safety concerns.

Key issues raised included the lack of documented landowner approval for portions of the project that extend onto neighboring properties, specifically regarding grading across property lines. Additionally, there were significant public health and safety concerns related to potential flooding if the dam were to fail, as the path of water runoff into the unincorporated county remains unclear.

The commission discussed the importance of addressing these compliance issues before moving forward. The staff emphasized the need for further information to ensure that all safety and regulatory standards are met. The meeting concluded with a plan to revisit the project once the necessary documentation and assessments are provided, ensuring that all stakeholders are adequately informed and protected.