Perrysburg tables zoning plan for housing complex

9/28/2001

The Perrysburg zoning and planning commission last night tabled a decision to rezone about 60 acres near the intersection of Fort Meigs and Five Point roads after residents peppered the developer with questions about the proposed residential complex.

Ridge Stone Developers in Perrysburg wants to build The River's Edge, which will consist of 126 single-family houses, 36 dual-housing units, some ponds, and a 50-bed assisted-living complex south of Perrysburg High School.

The development would be geared to people 55 years and older, Tim Gruber, a company representative, said last night.

However, Mr. Gruber said the company could not control who lives in the complex. The houses would run from $165,000 to $250,000.

Residents expressed concerns about the increased traffic, sewer systems, and the look of the development in the neighborhood with the high school nearby.

Lisa Richards, a commission member, questioned whether the development would be attractive to couples with children since it's near the school and a field.

After an hour-long public hearing, the commission decided to continue discussion of the matter at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25 in city hall.

In other business, the 17,000 people who live in Perrysburg can expect about 11,000 new residents to move into the city during the next two decades.

And to deal with the growth and to maintain a “harmonious blend” with other developments, the commission is reviewing a 20-year land use plan that considers creating an interchange at I-75 and Five Point.

With all the state requirements for such a project, it would be an “uphill battle,” said Jack Pflum of Pflum, Klausmeier & Gehrum, a Cincinnati engineering, planning, and landscaping firm. “It's something the city should reach for.”

The new Perrysburg residents will need about 5,000 new dwellings and 1,400 acres, Mr. Pflum said, adding that the growth area is not known and would be market-driven.

Jack Hilbert, a lawyer who lives in Perrysburg Township, cautioned the commissioners about adopting the plan.

In the past, the plan has been followed to the letter, Mr. Hilbert said. The commission should make it clear the plan is “not a straightjacket, but a guide.”