During a recent city council meeting, residents voiced significant concerns regarding a proposed development plan, highlighting issues related to infrastructure, traffic safety, and water supply.

One resident raised alarms about the state of local roads, emphasizing the need for improvements before any new construction begins. They pointed out that existing developments, such as Sydney Heights, are already facing water supply challenges, questioning the city's ability to manage additional demand from new projects. The resident urged the council to prioritize water resource management alongside development plans.

Another speaker, Richard Council, focused on pedestrian and bicycle safety, criticizing the proposed routing for cyclists through a series of uncontrolled intersections. He argued that the suggested path does not align with the city’s land use and transportation policies aimed at creating a safe and connected network. Council expressed skepticism about the practicality of the proposed route, suggesting that it would deter cyclists from using it altogether.

Phil Benge, a long-time resident, expressed his opposition to the development, citing a disconnect between the city’s traffic reports and the reality of increasing traffic congestion in the area. He recounted his own struggles to secure traffic safety measures on South Palouse Street, arguing that the city often overlooks the cumulative impact of new developments on existing infrastructure.

Steve McCone also opposed the subdivision, questioning the rationale behind the development in light of declining school populations and the broader housing crisis. He criticized the financial implications of the development, suggesting that the infrastructure costs per lot were significantly underestimated.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between community needs and development ambitions, with residents calling for a more comprehensive approach to urban planning that prioritizes safety and resource management.