Big Darby Accord Review Team updates plan with community input and consultant support

The Hilliard City Council meeting on March 24, 2025, focused on updates regarding the Big Darby Accord Review team and ongoing discussions about the watershed master plan. The review team, previously known as the Big Darby Accord Working Group, has been tasked with updating the Darby Accord document, which is crucial for managing the Big Darby watershed.

The review process began in October 2024 with a workshop that gathered representatives from nine of the ten jurisdictions involved in the Accord. This meeting aimed to identify challenges with the current document and reached a consensus on the need for an update. The team now includes five jurisdictions: Columbus, Hilliard, Franklin County, Prairie Township, and Brown Township.

Consultants from MKSK have been hired to facilitate public input and stakeholder reviews as part of the update process. The contract with MKSK is set to conclude at the end of the year, with plans for public workshops already established. The council has been kept informed of the progress, and a dedicated website has been launched to provide updates and resources related to the Accord.

During the meeting, public comments were made regarding the importance of adhering to the Accord and concerns about transparency in development plans. Residents urged the council to pause any new developments until the ongoing studies and reviews are completed, emphasizing the need for clear communication about land use and financial contributions to the Accord.

The council's next steps will involve continued collaboration with the review team and addressing community concerns as they work towards finalizing the updated watershed master plan.