Homeowners call walking trail unsafe and incomplete; developer vows to remediate

Several homeowners told the hearing examiner the walking trail installed in Maple Highlands is currently covered in wood chippings and debris and is unsafe for the age‑restricted community residents. Richard Robbins, a homeowner, presented photographs and said the trail is “unacceptable” for older walkers; he urged the developer to replace it with a paved or compacted material so it is actually usable.

Developer representative Jamie Frazier acknowledged the photographs and explained the trail was intended as a natural surface using wood mulch. He said the mulch compacts over time but agreed some of the installed material should be corrected. “I can get back in touch with the contractor and, ask him to break out the bigger, bigger pieces,” Frazier said, adding that the developer would pursue options to make the path usable. Another resident recommended a compacted 'crush and run' gravel surface based on experience in a different development.

The hearing examiner said the trail must be addressed and directed counsel to propose a condition; the record will remain open for the petitioner's written proposal. The developer also acknowledged some marketing materials incorrectly showed a paved trail and said that mischaracterization will be clarified in follow‑up correspondence.