The proposed Community Health and Wellness Center at the Creekside site drew attention due to its anticipated impact on local traffic and neighborhood dynamics. Residents voiced concerns about increased vehicular traffic, which could reach approximately 2,100 cars per day, affecting Newton Avenue South and surrounding areas. To manage the expected traffic increase, the commission discussed potential mitigation measures, including installing curb bump-outs to calm traffic and permitting parking along Newton Avenue to ease congestion. A traffic study by a third-party engineer suggested that peak demand would require around 239 parking stalls, but the proposal includes 353 stalls to accommodate visitors, raising questions about whether this would adequately address the expected demand.

Concerns about pedestrian safety and accessibility were also discussed, particularly in neighborhoods like Indian Mounds, where traffic has already increased due to other developments. The potential for increased traffic from the community center raised worries about safety for local children and residents. Residents criticized the planning process, arguing that the project might compromise the quality of life in the area by replacing green spaces with a large structure that could impose fees for access.

The community center’s size and location were contentious topics. The current proposal has been scaled down from 136,000 square feet to 106,000 square feet, prompting criticism that it would not meet future community needs. Some residents argued that the site is too small for such a large facility, likening it to “stuffing 50 pounds of potatoes in a 5-pound bag.” Calls were made for the commission to reconsider the site choice.

During the meeting, city staff assured that the project would comply with local watershed regulations and address environmental concerns, such as state permeability requirements, before receiving permits. However, residents expressed frustration over the lack of communication from city officials regarding the project’s timeline and details, with some only learning about changes a couple of months before demolition dates.

In addition to the community center, the commission addressed ordinance proposals related to remote airport parking. The proposed ordinance aims to regulate remote airport parking as a conditional use, allowing for its permanence while ensuring performance standards are in place to mitigate adverse impacts. The ordinance would permit remote airport parking in specific zoning districts, with a compliance deadline set for December 31, 2029. Discussions highlighted the need for thoughtful planning to balance remote airport parking with residential quality of life, considering proximity to the airport and existing hotel operations.