Proposed changes would allow denser housing development in the area surrounding Big Darby Creek, but officials from the City of Hilliard and Brown Township argue that dense development might create environmental and safety concerns.
For the first time in nearly 20 years, the Big Darby Accord, a collaborative agreement between the City of Columbus, the City of Hilliard, Prairie Township, Brown Township and Franklin County designed to protect the Big Darby Creek watershed, is under review.
The watershed is recognized as one of the nation's most biologically-diverse ecosystems and its environmental significance has long shaped development efforts.
Following a year of discussion between officials and public hearings, a proposed amendment was created. Notably, the proposed map would allow denser housing development, up to 12 units per acre from the current standard of 1.5 units per acre.
A joint letter between the City of Hilliard, Brown Township, Hilliard City Schools and Norwich Township argues that the changes may create environmental problems and will increase demands on schools and public services, which do not have the capacity to deal with the higher population.
The letter called for a pause until the changes could be discussed and amended to be more aligned with the goals of the joint group.
Brown Township Trustee Pete Marsh reiterated that the township is not opposed to development altogether.
An expert from the City of Columbus remarked that dense development has been shown to be much better for the environment, and simultaneously allows for considerations like affordability.
Despite the disagreement, the City of Columbus maintains that the project is a collaborative process.
Columbus City Council is tentatively scheduled to vote on the Big Darby Accord in March.
