Residents of North Bend raise land stability concerns over new condo development plans

The Village Council of North Bend, Ohio, held a meeting on February 10, 2025, where residents expressed significant concerns regarding a proposed development project and its potential impact on local property and safety. The discussions centered around the integrity of the development plans, particularly in relation to landslide risks and the management of utilities.

One resident recounted their experience with property development, highlighting issues with utility placements and the complexities of landslide management. They emphasized that the integrity of the execution of the development is crucial, noting that past experiences in the neighborhood have raised doubts about the developer's reliability. The resident warned that if landslides occur, it could lead to decreased property values and aesthetic degradation in the community.

Another resident, Lee Hodgman, shared her family's ordeal with a landslide that resulted in significant financial burdens for repairs. She cautioned that the proposed development could exacerbate the risk of landslides, particularly due to planned water runoff management that would direct water into a creek on her property. Hodgman argued that the council has a duty to protect existing homeowners from the potential negative consequences of the development.

Additional testimonies from other residents echoed these concerns, with examples of costly repairs due to landslides and the potential for future damage if the development proceeds. The community members collectively urged the council to reject the project, citing overwhelming evidence of the risks involved.

The meeting underscored the residents' apprehension about the proposed development and its implications for safety and property values in North Bend. The council's decision on the project will be closely watched by the community, as it could have lasting effects on the neighborhood's stability and integrity.