West Haven City Council debates developer's R3 zoning proposal amid resident opposition

The Western Weber Planning Commission meeting on January 9, 2024, focused on a proposed development project that has sparked significant community concern, particularly from residents of West Haven. The meeting highlighted a request from Carrie Cole, a member of the West Haven City Council, who urged the commission to delay approval of the project. Cole emphasized that West Haven was not notified about the development and expressed the need for the developer to engage in discussions with West Haven officials before moving forward.

Residents voiced their apprehensions regarding the proposed R-3 zoning, which allows for higher density housing. Christine Clark, a West Haven resident, articulated her concerns about the increasing number of townhomes and apartments in the area, arguing that West Haven has already accommodated more than its fair share of such developments. She advocated for maintaining the current R-1-15 zoning, which permits lower density residential housing, and suggested that the developer should prioritize discussions with West Haven to address community concerns.

Steve Cox, representing the Hadley Family Trust, echoed these sentiments, expressing agreement with the concerns about high-density housing. He noted that the area has historically been rural and that residents prefer to see it remain that way.

The discussions at the meeting underscore the importance of community engagement in planning decisions, particularly as local residents seek to preserve the character of their neighborhoods. The commission's next steps will likely involve further consideration of the project and the potential for dialogue between the developer and West Haven officials.