Halt the Proposed Housing Development on Mapleway in Olmsted Falls

Halt the Proposed Housing Development on Mapleway in Olmsted Falls

The Issue

It has come to my attention that there are plans for a housing development off Mapleway Road in Olmsted Falls, threatening to create more congestion in our already oversaturated town. 

This proposed project threatens to disrupt the historic and picturesque nature of our town. However, it’s not just about preserving the aesthetics or maintaining serenity - it's about retaining the close knit, small town identity of this place we call home.

We are not against progress or denying families a chance to enjoy Olmsted Falls, but it is paramount to consider the direct effects of overdevelopment on our town. We need to prioritize responsible and sustainable development that takes into consideration the town's history and character, protection of green space and wildlife, as well as resident taxpayers’ desires.

This is not just my fight; it's a fight for all of us who sought a specific lifestyle here. I urge you to sign this petition and let city officials know how we feel.

This petition had 446 supporters

The Issue

It has come to my attention that there are plans for a housing development off Mapleway Road in Olmsted Falls, threatening to create more congestion in our already oversaturated town. 

This proposed project threatens to disrupt the historic and picturesque nature of our town. However, it’s not just about preserving the aesthetics or maintaining serenity - it's about retaining the close knit, small town identity of this place we call home.

We are not against progress or denying families a chance to enjoy Olmsted Falls, but it is paramount to consider the direct effects of overdevelopment on our town. We need to prioritize responsible and sustainable development that takes into consideration the town's history and character, protection of green space and wildlife, as well as resident taxpayers’ desires.

This is not just my fight; it's a fight for all of us who sought a specific lifestyle here. I urge you to sign this petition and let city officials know how we feel.

The Decision Makers

James Graven
Former Olmsted Falls City Mayor
Responded
Dear Olmsted Falls Residents: As you may be aware, on January 8, 2025, NVR, Inc. submitted its application for a new development project to the City of Olmsted Falls Planning and Zoning Commission, which is the public body having oversight regarding such applications. Thank you for expressing concerns regarding this development project. I share some concerns about this project as well. The proposed subdivision on Mapleway is in its very first steps in the Planning and Zoning Commission process. The Planning and Zoning Commission will meet on Wednesday, February 19 at 7:30 p.m. to consider this application. You are welcome to attend this public meeting and express your concerns, so your voices are heard by the Planning and Zoning Commission. I understand why some residents who live near the proposed project have concerns. Every private property owner has a right to apply to the Planning and Zoning Commission seeking to develop their property consistent with the existing zoning requirements. This is a broad right enjoyed by property owners throughout our country. The City must provide each property owner that opportunity as part of their right to due process. Many years ago, prior to me taking office as your Mayor, the property at issue was previously zoned as "Industrial.” About a decade ago, it was rezoned to the current "Mixed Use Traditional Neighborhood District" classification in response to a court order relating to a lawsuit. Hopefully, the development review process, which is required by law, will serve its purpose and address any concerns. If the developer cannot meet the standards and requirements of the Planning and Zoning Commission or of the City’s Codified Ordinances, the application may be revised, denied, or withdrawn. Please be aware that the City’s Administration suggested to the property owner that he seek to rezone the property back to Industrial. That way, he could potentially pursue opportunities with the new owners of the adjoining former Evergreen Industries property. However, the property owner ultimately decided not to follow the Administration’s suggestion and elected to pursue a residential development project instead. Additionally, you should be aware that I introduced legislation twice to end the City’s residential property tax abatement program. Both in 2021 and again in 2024, with two different City Councils, I tried to remove residential tax abatement. Council voted against my proposed legislation to end residential abatement both times. I want to take the opportunity to thank our entire community for their input regarding this important topic. Sincerely, James Graven Mayor
Former Olmsted Falls City Council
2 Members
Cornel Munteanu
Former Olmsted Falls City Council - At Large
Brian Chitester
Former Olmsted Falls City Council - At Large

Supporter Voices

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