Steve Ramlow

The meeting convened to address a public hearing and potential action regarding a conditional use review for a proposed multi-family residential development. The proposal involves constructing five two-story apartment buildings totaling 130 units on approximately 9 acres located at the southeast corner of 4 Mile Road and North Green Bay Road, resulting in a density of 14.4 units per acre. Key discussion points during the public hearing included concerns from residents regarding the high density, potential impact on water supply (specifically well water for neighbors), wildlife displacement, increased demands on public safety services (police and fire), and the character of the neighborhood versus the village's 2035 land use plan. The applicant clarified that the units would be market-rate apartments, not low-income subsidized housing, and that each unit would feature an individual entrance and garage. The commission noted that the review was strictly for the conditional use request concerning buildings larger than eight units, with detailed reviews of traffic impact, landscaping, and site plans scheduled for future meetings upon recommendation to the village board.

The Committee of the Whole meeting involved the approval of the minutes from the April 22nd, 2025 meeting. Discussions covered updates from the Planning Commission, including proposed developments such as a 6,700 square foot warehouse on Quick Drive, a cell tower expansion on Nicholson Road, and a request for a temporary fireworks stand permit. The committee also discussed the commencement of the annual sanitary sewer televising program and progress on elevation storage tank work by the Eldon Utility District. Further topics included a review of the contract with VisitRine County regarding a shared driveway repair issue, the approval of an operator license for Robin Bar at the Corner Connection after reviewing a previously undisclosed misdemeanor conviction from last year, and a discussion on penalties for failing to complete construction projects, concluding with a staff recommendation to maintain existing ordinance measures. Finally, the committee reviewed emergency meeting powers, confirming that prior COVID-related emergency declarations have expired and noting that future actions should adhere to standard 24-hour notice requirements unless impracticable, as defined by statute. The renewal of the annual explosives and blasting permit for Pain and Dolan Quarry was also addressed.

The Committee of the Whole meeting involved several key discussions and actions. Following roll call and the approval of the December 22nd, 2025, minutes, the committee addressed public comment opportunities. Committee updates were provided by representatives from the Planning Commission and Parks and Recreation. New business included a discussion regarding establishing a volunteer beautification committee, which was ultimately tabled. Another significant discussion concerned solar panel installations on village buildings, with a motion passed to lay the item over for future review, possibly involving vendor consultation and cost-benefit analysis relating to electric bills. Furthermore, the committee reviewed and recommended approval (subject to legal review) for the assignment of an easement on Thomas Farms for sewer and water connections to the future Five Mile Road right-of-way, as well as a related quitclaim deed. Finally, a discussion was initiated regarding the need for an ordinance establishing age restrictions for CBD and THC gummy products within the village, and the committee discussed operational rules for adding suggested items to future agendas, specifically emphasizing the need for caution regarding walking quorums.

The meeting focused on the public hearing and potential action regarding the proposed update to the Park and Open Space Plan for the Village of Calonia, targeting the year 2050. Key discussions included public comments concerning drainage easements on private property and appreciation for recent cleanup efforts on Highway 31. The presentation on the park plan detailed its purpose as a policy document to guide future development, noting it is the fourth edition since 1989. The plan update incorporated input from over 500 survey responses and feedback from a public open house. The plan's inventory highlights a projected population increase of nearly 33% by 2050, the existence of 67 park sites (27 publicly owned), and 13% of the village falling within an environmental corridor. The analysis identified opportunities for improvement in recreational facilities, specifically basketball hoops, tennis/pickleball courts, and the need for additional facilities west of State Highway 32. Survey results indicated high priorities for more amenities in existing parks, better maintenance, and a connected trail network. Recommendations included developing a water trail on the Root River corridor and addressing maintenance at Franksville Memorial Park.

The meeting included discussions on public comments regarding opposition to a proposed zoning change for a parcel of land from medium density residential to high density residential, citing concerns about building non-compliance, unit size, parking, and traffic safety at the intersection of Four Mile and Erie Street. Residents also voiced complaints about excessive noise, potentially from a nearby facility, exceeding established decibel limits. Resolutions addressed Ordinance 2025-15 concerning park regulations and repealing Chapter 2 related to the East Side Community Center. Resolution 2025-16 concerned an amendment related to street number 404, and Resolution 2025-9 appointed election inspectors for the 2026-2027 election. Furthermore, the board discussed the economic development services contract with RCD, noting adjustments in focus for 2025 and 2026 towards industrial and residential development attraction, existing business support, entrepreneurship programs, and talent attraction.