City has a plan
Council OKs comprehensive plan after debating school district borders
HUDSON - After months of discussion. City Council unanimously approved the 2004 comprehensive plan after debate on local school district boundaries.
Council agreed 6-0 Wednesday to make some modifications to the plan, which included adding that a hotel use should be permitted as a conditional use in District 9, the city's southern gateway along Route 91.
Council also agreed with the planning commission that some of the language regarding the city and school district boundaries should read: "The city should work with the school district and relevant political jurisdictions to address the impact of school enrollment growth."
Council President George Roth said the city would work with surrounding communities to help achieve its growth management objectives and limit growth that ultimately impacts the school system. Parts of Boston Heights, Cuyahoga Falls and Stow are includedwithin the boundaries of the Hudson City School District.
Council made it clear, however, that it has no authority to change the school boundaries.
The transfer of school territory can only be initiated by the Ohio Board of Education, by the district Board of Education or by voter petition, Council said.
State-initiated transfers must be voted upon at a primary or general election, city officials said.
Janet Miller, a Council member from Boston Heights, told Council she was concerned about any language in the comprehensive plan that could affect her children not being to able to attend Hudson schools.
"I think if we work together it would be beneficial to our village and to Hudson," Miller said.
The 2004 comprehensive plan updates the plan adopted in 1995 after the merger of the former township and village.
The 15-member comprehensive plan update steering committee was appointed in March 2003, met in public at least 18 times and hosted two public forums.
The 2004 comprehensive plan contains 10 chapters and seven goal statements, objectives and implementation strategies.
A category of economic development was added this time see how to encourage business growth within the city.
Council member Dan Williams was absent from the meeting.
Copies of the comprehensive plan are on file in the city's community development office.
E-mail: jreece @ recordpub.net
Phone: 330-688-0088, ext. 3145