Justin Czekaj

The Service Committee meeting primarily addressed two major topics: a proposed increase to the sidewalk assessment and issues related to drainage and missing sidewalks in the Hidden Glen area. Regarding the sidewalk assessment, the committee discussed the need to increase the annual maintenance portion from $50,000 to $100,000 due to rising construction costs, proposing a $50,000 increase to the assessment overall, with unspent funds to carry forward. The committee also reviewed a drainage issue at 116 Cedar Glen, concluding it appeared to be a private property matter, and staff offered to contact the resident. Finally, the committee discussed enforcing the installation of missing sidewalks in the Hidden Glen development, noting legal review would be required concerning the City's authority to mandate installation on specific parcels.

The Council meeting addressed several key areas including community development, budget preparations, and website updates. The council discussed a bi-annual community survey and a robotic lawn mower for the pool, as well as additional staffing needs. They reviewed the implementation of a citizen services portal and the upcoming expiration of the single hauler trash contract. The council also considered the implications of local homestead and owner occupancy tax credits and discussed the preliminary design for the Pocket Park. Further discussions involved pool rates, a potential Redwood subdivision, and a proposed Christmas Market on the Square. The council approved a zoning text amendment regarding the regulation of animals and fowl, and addressed group medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans. They also adopted a cyber security policy and program, the 2025 Geauga County Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan, and resolutions for fund transfers and tax advances. An appointment was made to the Park and Recreation Board, and Retail Strategies was scheduled to present at a future meeting.

The meeting addressed several key items, including a request to extend the Preliminary Plan approval for Hidden Glen Associates. The commission also reviewed and approved the Final Development Plan and Architectural Review for a new commercial remodel at the site of a formerly vacant building for a 'Crepes in the Country' restaurant. Additionally, there was an informal discussion regarding a use variance for a Sheetz convenience store, including potential relocation and expansion plans.

The meeting included discussions and decisions on several planning cases. A final development plan for tennis courts and parking spaces was reviewed, with considerations for landscaping, fencing, and community access. The commission also discussed a text amendment to the Planning & Zoning Code related to accessory structures for harboring animals. Additionally, a final development plan for an auto dealership was reviewed, addressing parking, utilities, and landscaping. An informal discussion was held regarding a potential mixed-use development, including residential units and commercial lots.

The meeting addressed a request for a variance to use the ground floor of a building on 107 Center Street as a residential apartment unit. Concerns were raised about parking, square footage, and safety. The commission decided to table the case until the next meeting to allow for a review of the issues and additional information from the applicant and city administration. The commission also discussed plans for the tennis courts and announced upcoming vacancies on the Planning Commission for 2026.