The Elyria Planning Commission voted Wednesday, November 12, 2025, to advance a 122-unit workforce housing development on West River Road North while postponing its scheduled review of the city’s proposed zoning code. Mayor Kevin Brubaker opened the meeting by noting the larger audience and announcing that the zoning code item had been pulled for further internal review, particularly regarding its impact on the historic district. He said he will meet with planning, legal and community development staff and consider recent resident input before bringing the item back on December 9.
After approving the October 14 minutes, the commission heard two public hearings.
The first involved a small correction in the Windsor Place subdivision. Bob of Logan Street requested a replat for a fourplex at Shurac and Eldermire after a buyer asked to extend a garage by five feet. The original plat recorded a 25-foot side-yard setback, though the zoning minimum is 20 feet. Adjusting the recorded line to 20 feet allows the garage extension without violating code. Planning staff confirmed that initial corrections had been made and recommended approval. With no public objections, the commission unanimously approved the replat.
The second hearing focused on a larger proposal: a 122-unit workforce housing project called Black River Forge. Comprehensive Ventures Unlimited, working with Hillside Partners, is proposing a four-story building on a 6.8-acre vacant parcel north of the Black River Career Prep Center. Development officer Taylor Cook said Hillside is a long-term owner specializing in affordable workforce housing, and the $40.4 million project would serve households earning up to 60 percent of area median income. Targeted tenants include teacher’s aides, healthcare workers, service employees and recent LCCC graduates. Cook stressed the project is not Section 8 housing, and that all applicants undergo income verification and background checks.
Planning staff reported that the site’s Business Neighborhood zoning allows multifamily housing on a conditional basis and that the project aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan. Water and sewer capacity is available, though variances for building height, parking and parking setbacks will be required through the Board of Zoning Appeals. Staff recommended conditional approval. Engineering and the Fire Department had no objections.
Several West River Road residents spoke in opposition. Members of the Richards family, whose ownership in the area dates back generations, worried the complex would reduce home values, increase trespassing and alter the character of what they see as a key development corridor. They also questioned how tenants would be screened and whether residents would come from outside Lorain County. Others raised concerns about lighting, possible future 5G infrastructure, peace and safety, and additional traffic. One resident said he did not want to see West River Road expanded to four lanes.
Cook and Brubaker responded that the development is intended for local working households, that no one will be bused in, and that Hillside plans to own the property for at least 30 years. Cook cited studies showing modern, well-managed affordable housing does not typically depress property values and noted the project will have on-site management, secure access and proper lighting. On traffic, an engineering representative said recent counts near Griswold Road show low volumes and that the project does not justify additional lanes at this time.
After discussion, the commission voted to recommend approval of the conditional use for case 2025-100138, contingent on all required variances. The project will undergo design review and further staff evaluation as plans progress.
With no additional business, the meeting was adjourned. The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for December 9, when the proposed zoning code is expected to return to the agenda.