Stow · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Stow public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Duplex and townhome housing permits
This amendment would allow apartments and multifamily complexes on lots fronting seven major roads plus bus routes, with a 10-units-per-acre cap. It's the centerpiece of Stow's push to build a real downtown, but residents on Fishcreek and Norton Roads worry traffic and rentals will change quiet neighborhoods.
Townhome Development at 2815 & 2845 Graham Road
A developer wants to build townhomes on two Graham Road parcels; the committee is only deciding whether townhomes are allowed as a use, with the detailed 34-unit site plan left for later review. Residents raised safety and access concerns at the Planning Commission, and staff added a condition voiding the permit if those concerns aren't fixed.
Former bowling alley redevelopment
Council members keep getting asked about the old Stow Kent bowling alley site. Plans are approved and fencing is up, but permitting isn't done and there's no construction start date; the planning director will email members a factsheet to share with residents.
Duplex development at former Maple Park pool site
Four duplexes (eight units) are proposed on the vacant parcels at 4386 Maplepark Road. Council could grant the permit as soon as tonight, with engineering conditions — storm sewer easement, drainage lines, sidewalks — to follow before building permits.
Human Bean coffee drive-thru at 983 Graham Road
A new drive-thru coffee shop is proposed on a vacant half-acre lot next to Taco Bell on Graham Road. Customers would enter via the Taco Bell drive and have multiple exit routes through the shopping center and Rocco's parking lot.
Community Reinvestment Area tax incentives
Council accepted the Tax Incentive Review Council's recommendations for Community Reinvestment Area agreements in Areas I and IV — routine oversight of existing tax abatement deals.
Creating a downtown Stow
The Planning Commission may cut the apartment density cap from about 9.7 to 6 residents per acre, which the parks board heard could 'almost eliminate' the planned walkable market district downtown. A vote is imminent, then it goes to City Council.
Affordable Housing Loan Program Guidelines
The council was scheduled to adopt guidelines creating a clear framework for lending financial assistance to affordable housing projects, funded by the housing and housing trust funds. No action was taken because the meeting was canceled.
Stow Glen Commercial TIF and Tax Exemption
Council declared certain commercial improvements tax-exempt under ORC 5709.40(B), with service payments steered to infrastructure and payments to schools and libraries.
816 Seasons Road storage building and wetland setback variance
Council approved a site plan and variances for Green Oasis landscaping business at 816 Seasons Road, moving it through in a single night under suspension of the rules.