This meeting of the Hudson Planning Commission, held on October 14, 2024 from 7:30 PM to 11:07 PM, addressed a continued conditional use and site plan for Laurel Lake, a minor subdivision, two text amendments to the Land Development Code, and a discussion of potential code updates. The Commission approved the Laurel Lake project with the removal of three problematic buildings, approved the minor subdivision, recommended approval of one text amendment, and tabled the other for further refinement.
The applicant, Jeff Jardine (Riverstone Company), presented revised plans for seven additional duplex buildings (13 units total) at the continuing care retirement community. Buildings 1, 2, and 5 were relocated to address wetland setbacks and ecological integrity, but staff identified code conflicts (wetland setback violations, tree removal in priority areas, traffic safety concerns). The applicant requested a continuance to conduct a traffic study and further address concerns. The motion to continue failed 3-3 (Mr. Stolle, Mr. Vaughan, Mr. Romano for; Ms. Norman, Mr. Innamorato, Ms. Smith against).
During the hearing, the applicant argued the entire project would be unviable without all 13 units, while staff maintained that buildings 1 and 2 are within the 50-foot wetland setback and conflict with LDC §1207.03. Two public commenters opposed the project as proposed. Commissioners expressed concerns about safety, ecological impact, and code compliance. A motion was made to approve the conditional use and site plan with removal of buildings 1, 2, and 5, subject to conditions from the July 8, 2024 staff report. That motion carried 6-0.
A request to consolidate 31 parcels in the Boston Park subdivision into four houselots (one existing home, three buildable). Staff noted the subdivision was properly noticed and no public comments were received. The Commission approved the application with conditions regarding home orientation, setbacks, and engineering comments. Vote: 6-0.
A proposed amendment to LDC §§1205.09 and 1205.11 requiring uses in Districts 6 and 8 adjacent to residentially used properties to match setbacks required for residentially zoned properties. Staff explained the change corrects an inequity and addresses changed conditions after 25+ years. The Commission found the amendment in substantial compliance with review standards and recommended approval. Vote: 6-0.
A proposed amendment to LDC §1206.05 to allow non-conforming single-family dwellings to rebuild up to 150% of previous gross floor area (currently 110%) if destroyed by any means. Commissioners discussed potential takings issues, the incentive to demolish historic homes, and the need for clearer standards. A motion to table for further staff refinement passed 6-0.
Staff presented a list of potential code amendments for prioritization (e.g., assisted living in D6/D8, compatibility review process, meeting processes, definition of density). Commissioners generally favored a comprehensive LDC rewrite over piecemeal changes. No formal action was taken.
It is 7 30 p.m. on October the 14th, 2024, the appointed time for calling the meeting of the City of Hudson Planning Commission to order. And I would like to begin this evening by asking Mr. Sugar to supervise the swearing in of our new member of the board. And I should add that this meeting has been called in accordance with the state of Ohio revised code related to Sunshine Law Section 121.22. Mr. Sugar. Yes, I'd like to introduce our new member Angela Smith, and we'll be performing the story in with Mr. Romano. All right, Angela. Just raise if you can raise your right hand. And then just follow with me while you're reading, and I'll read it. Then you can just repeat what I say. I Angela Smith. I Angela Smith. Do solemnly swear. Do solemnly swear. That I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Ohio and the laws of the City of Hudson. That I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Ohio and the laws of the City of Hudson. And then I will faithfully, honestly, and impartially. And then I will faithfully, honestly and impartially discharge the duties of the office of member of the planning commission of the City of Hudson, Summit County, State of Ohio, during my continuance in set office. Discharge the duties of the office of member of the Planning Commission of the City of Hudson, Summit County, State of Ohio during my continuance in set office. Congratulations. Thank you very much. Yes, a little applause for everyone. Mrs. Ms. Smith, we appreciate you serving on the Planning Commission. And um and encourage you to uh enjoy your time here with us as we consider the business before the commission. Mr. Sugar, our second item on the agenda is roll call. Could you please call the roll? Yes. Mr. Nystrom is absent. Mr. Inamerado? Here. Mr. Romano? Here. Ms. Smith. Here. Mr. Stoley? Here. Mr. Vaughn? Here.