Rodney is also quick to caution that it’s still early in the planning process. Centerville’s planning and zoning commission tabled the issue in February because of concerns from residents nearby. Questions about roadways, traffic and the sizes of the lots were raised. There were storm water concerns as well.
“I would say those concerns are typical,” said Rodney. “Anytime folks are used to a certain situation and things change … it can be difficult. But at the same time, (city) staff understands concerns of the neighborhood, and we want to work with them to manage and mitigate those concerns.”
Longtime Centerville resident Pete Schwalm lives in the area but said he’s embracing the development.
“I’ve been around a long time in the general Centerville area and have watched communities develop, and I think it’s been basically a good thing,” he said.
Rodney said 85 new families in the area will hopefully contribute to more foot traffic for area businesses. The project will go before the city’s planning commission at a March 25 meeting. If the group votes to recommend the project for approval, it will go before city council in April.
Theoretically, ground could be broken this fall or next winter.
“It’s very up in the air at this point,” Rodney said. “It’s so early in the planning process. There’s still quite a bit of work to be done.”
About the Author