Planning commission previews Reimer Road rezoning and lists spring community events

The Norton Planning Commission said a rezoning request and preliminary subdivision plat for several parcels on Reimer Road will be heard at the March 11 meeting in the City Council Chambers, and staff will distribute materials to commissioners and make copies available for public review.

Planning staff told commissioners the rezone and plat were submitted as a single package to provide transparency on the applicant's vision and that neighborhood notices will be required and reissued after postponement. Commissioners were asked to review the packet when it is distributed and send questions to staff so they can be addressed in advance.

Separately, the commission received routine community updates from the parks and cemetery representative. Staff said letters had been sent for Keep Norton Beautiful volunteer locations and that Spring Greenup/Cleanup Day and Arbor Day events are planned for late March and April (dates given as tentatively March-April range, with a rain date in early May). The Mosquito Abatement District will offer a free tire drive April 24 at Columbia Woods for Norton and Barberton residents, with proof of residency required and a per-household tire limit; the district will not accept tires with wheels and will accept only clean tires.

Commissioners approved the minutes of Feb. 11 and reminded members that the rezoning/subdivision item could attract significant public interest. Staff said they will handle required neighbor notifications for the rehearing and encouraged commissioners to study the packet materials.