The most pressing topic of discussion was the proposed housing development on North Highland Avenue, which seeks to establish a Planned Unit Development (PUD) comprising 148 apartment units. The project has drawn notable opposition from residents, with concerns centering on the transition from low-density to high-density residential zoning. Residents, such as Paulo Peglieri, voiced their discontent, emphasizing that many homeowners had invested in properties with the expectation of maintaining low-density zoning. Peglieri stated, “I think it’s a great opportunity for the town to have those developments, but I think they’re rezoning a neighborhood that has been built on a trust that the city would maintain that word.”

Additional concerns included the project’s impact on traffic infrastructure and safety, particularly on North Highland Avenue. The city engineer highlighted that the current traffic volume on this street is approximately 3,000 vehicles lower than previous counts, with a full traffic study by the Department of Transportation scheduled for 2026. Residents expressed worries about the increased traffic volume that the development would bring, potentially exacerbating safety risks for children and senior citizens living nearby.

Environmental considerations, such as stormwater management and potential shading effects on solar panels, were also discussed. Residents called for thorough environmental impact studies to address these issues before proceeding with the project. Robert Wise, a local resident, remarked on the site’s grading concerns, noting that the elevation could make the apartment buildings appear taller and potentially resemble a six-story structure from certain angles.

The council members acknowledged these concerns, with some indicating a need to reassess traffic patterns and safety implications as the development progresses. Suggestions to relocate the project or adjust its density were also mentioned, although the developer’s initial assessments had already considered these factors.

In addition to the North Highland Avenue development, the council reviewed a development proposal for a barnaminium-style housing project on Jacob Street. This project involves transforming an industrially zoned property into a PUD with 28 lots for barnaminiums and six lots for storage condominiums. The proposal includes exceptions to the industrial zoning standards, raising questions about the inclusion of residential units within an industrial framework.

Concerns were raised about potential nuisances for future residents, such as dust and noise from nearby industrial and commercial areas. The council discussed the implications of introducing residential units in an industrial zone, balancing innovative housing solutions with zoning regulations.

The meeting also addressed a variance request for a detached garage on South Front Street. The proposed location of the garage, which requires a variance due to the positioning of the existing home, was evaluated for its impact on safety and property values. The council unanimously agreed to approve the variance, contingent on conditions such as proper drainage measures and the removal of excess structures within 30 days of final inspection.

Lastly, the council considered a conditional use permit for a six-foot fence on a corner lot on North Minnesota Street. The applicant, Caitlyn Cordez, sought permission for the taller fence to contain a large dog and deter trespassers. The council approved the permit with conditions, emphasizing the need to ensure compliance with visibility regulations.