Independence Citizens Protest Concordia Oaks Project Over Endangered Bat Species Concerns

A passionate plea for environmental accountability took center stage at the Independence City Council meeting on August 14, 2025, as a local resident raised alarm over the potential destruction of endangered bat habitats linked to the controversial Concordia Oaks project.

During her public statement, the resident detailed a recent acoustical bat survey conducted by All Star Ecology, which revealed the presence of all ten bat species native to Ohio, including four endangered species. She expressed her dismay that both Petros Builders and city officials allegedly ignored these findings, failing to report them to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and instead opted to proceed with the project.

"This is not just about bats; it's about the broader implications of disregarding scientific evidence for profit," she stated, emphasizing the critical role these species play in the ecosystem. The resident urged fellow citizens to hold their elected officials accountable, specifically naming council members and the mayor, and called for a vote in November to elect representatives who prioritize environmental protection.

The meeting also included procedural discussions, such as the approval of minutes from previous council workshops and meetings, but the focus remained on the urgent environmental concerns raised. As the community grapples with the consequences of development decisions, the call for civic engagement and environmental stewardship resonates strongly among residents.