Concerns over proposed industrial zoning changes dominated the Dublin City Council meeting on June 23, 2025, as residents voiced strong opposition to the West Innovation District project. Community members expressed fears about potential safety hazards, environmental impacts, and declining property values, urging the council to pause any decisions until broader community engagement can take place.

Lynn Roose, a long-time resident, highlighted the lack of transparency in the planning process, noting that many neighbors were unaware of the proposed changes until shortly before the final planning meeting. "We need to get it right," Roose stated, emphasizing the importance of involving residents in discussions that could significantly alter their community.

Victoria McDonald, a local youth, echoed these sentiments, stressing that younger voices should also be included in shaping the future of Dublin. "When changes are made without input from those who live nearby, it creates a sense of being unseen and unheard," she said, advocating for collaborative communication regarding major developments.

Several speakers raised concerns about the potential for increased noise and traffic, with Dr. Michael Lofton, a local physician, warning of possible auditory injuries linked to industrial facilities. "Without appropriately performed noise studies, I'm concerned about the health impacts on our community," Lofton remarked.

The meeting also saw residents questioning the necessity of the rezoning, with Sandy McIntosh pointing out that Dublin does not currently face a revenue crisis. "The city seems to be asking one residential area to bear the entire brunt of making more money," she argued, calling for a reconsideration of the proposed changes.

As the council deliberates, community members are urging leaders to prioritize public input and ensure that any development aligns with Dublin's identity as a safe and family-oriented community. The call for a working group to facilitate ongoing dialogue reflects a desire for a more inclusive approach to urban planning, one that honors the voices of all residents.