Washington Twp. dispute: What’s next for Hithergreen property?

After a near two-hour meeting, Washington Twp. zoning commission voted unanimously to deny recommendation for the approval of a 35-home subdivision at the site of the former Hithergreen Center property.

The plan was proposed by Tom Peebles of Peebles Homes.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Neighbors voice opposition to proposed assisted living facility

Dozens of residents spoke at the zoning meeting, with all but one speaker voicing opposition to the plans, citing the desire for a neighborhood park and objecting to the density of the project.

The project called for lots of a quarter-acre for the 14-acre plot of land.

Peebles met with members of the neighborhood in May in a similar setting, when they voiced their initial concerns of losing what they call their “de-facto” park.

EARLIER: Former Hithergreen Center center faces new neighborhood debate

Though the vote did not go in the development’s favor, the zoning commission’s denial does not spell the end of the development.

Zoning commission acts as a recommendation board, according to Zoning Manager Ryan Lee. The subdivision could still move forward, as Peebles will present the same plans to township trustees Sept. 11.

“It’s a process like anything else,” Peebles said after the meeting. “We will take all their comments into consideration and go on to the next meeting.”

FOLLOW: Tre Hogue on Facebook

Commission members agreed the project was too dense for the area.

Peebles said he doesn’t know if changing his plans to alter the density would be economically feasible.

“It’s a situation where I have land cost, development cost on the project. It all has to make economic sense, otherwise it doesn’t work,” he said.

About the Author