Concerns over the proposed Shoreline Phase 4 subdivision dominated the Hideout Town Council meeting on May 8, 2025, as residents voiced their frustrations regarding increased density and infrastructure issues.
Doug Silver, a local resident, opened the public input session by highlighting the lack of progress on a critical lift station, which he argued should be completed before any further development occurs. "We don't have a lift station that can be finished yet," he stated, emphasizing the urgency for clarity on the project's timeline.
Lettice Tuhanski raised alarms about the shift from single-family homes to multi-unit buildings in the development plan, questioning the safety implications for emergency evacuations. "If you have 4, 5, and 6 plexes, you're gonna have a lot of people who need to get out," she warned, pointing to potential stormwater runoff issues that could exacerbate flooding in the area.
Peggy Boca echoed these concerns, urging the council to adhere to established guidelines and not allow developers to bypass regulations for profit. "If you set a precedent in a community that you're wanting to build up, you're looking for huge failure," she cautioned.
Tom Slyke expressed shock at the proposal to triple the approved home density, arguing that it undermines the integrity of the planning process. He criticized the developer for a lack of transparency, stating, "No reasonable person would approve such a vague and unbounded request."
Residents like Brian Cooper and Dale Heman joined the chorus, calling for a cohesive master plan that prioritizes community needs over developer interests. Heman emphasized the importance of holding developers accountable, stating, "We need to establish the type of town that we want Hideout to be and not just let developers rule."
As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the community remains deeply concerned about the future of the Shoreline development and its potential impact on their quality of life. The council faces mounting pressure to address these issues and ensure that any development aligns with the community's vision for a sustainable and safe environment.