Hiram Council Reviews Trading Homes' 93-Unit Senior Housing Development Proposal

A significant development proposal took center stage at the Hiram City Council meeting on May 3, 2025, as the council discussed a rezoning application for a 30.5-acre site intended for an age-restricted senior housing community. The proposal, presented by local builder Trading Homes, aims to transform the area into a residential enclave featuring 93 detached homes, a reduction from the initially proposed 115 units.

Kevin Moore, representing the applicant, emphasized the community's need for such housing, citing demographic trends that indicate a growing senior population in the region. He noted that by 2030, there will be more individuals aged 65 and older than those under 18, highlighting the urgency for suitable living arrangements for seniors.

The revised plan addresses previous concerns from local residents regarding traffic and safety. The developer has eliminated access points to Pace Road and Old Mill Road, opting for a single entry point on Jimmy Lee Smith Parkway. This change aims to alleviate fears about increased traffic in the area, which residents had voiced during earlier discussions.

In addition to the reduction in housing units and access points, the proposal includes a commitment to maintain a natural buffer of trees along the property’s perimeter, preserving the aesthetic for neighboring homes. Moore argued that this approach not only respects the existing community but also aligns with the city’s future land use plans, which currently favor commercial development for the area.

Despite the Paulding County Planning Commission's recommendation for denial, citing concerns over traffic and adherence to the future land use plan, Moore urged the council to consider the benefits of a residential development over commercial use. He argued that a commercial project would negatively impact the quality of life for nearby residents.

The council also discussed the possibility of adding an emergency access point for safety purposes, which Moore indicated could be feasible, pending approval from county authorities.

As the meeting concluded, the council members expressed their support for the revised proposal, recognizing its potential to meet the housing needs of seniors while addressing community concerns. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential approval of the application, which could significantly shape the future of the Hiram community.