The Salem Planning Commission recommends the development of HopeTree

SALEM, Va. (WDBJ) – Development plans for Salem are one step closer to reality.

No official decision was made, but the city’s planning commission did recommend the proposed construction of the HopeTree Family Services project.

It was a packed house at the Salem Civic Center, where a joint meeting was held between the City Council and the Planning Commission. Residents were encouraged to come and express their views and concerns about the HopeTree development project.

At the joint meeting, many residents spoke for and against. Those who supported the project said it was pointless to delay the inevitable because the development would generate revenue for the city.

“The property currently produces no revenue for the city and if developed it will ultimately generate at least over a million in property taxes, helping all Salem residents by providing funds that can offset rising costs and taxes ” said Dabney Ward.

Jon Morris, president of HopeTree Family Services, defends the Planned Unit Development (PUD) application. He said this is the most practical option that would work for everyone because the property will be developed anyway

“If we were to build single-family homes, I don’t see any way we could preserve and repurpose many of the historic buildings that are no longer useful to our organization. We strongly believe that our application is a win for HopeTree, and a win for the community and the city of Salem,” said Morris.

Residents opposed to the project say the city should wait and do more research before making a final decision. They say the increase in traffic alone would be unbearable.

“To properly distribute the traffic of a project of that size, you need access on four sides. There is only access for two people. I urge you to obtain accurate information,” said Christina McCart.

Others believe a decision should not have been made the same night the planning commission hears from community members, who call it unfair.

“Take more time. The reason we are going through this shortened process is because two municipal councilors have spoken out against the proposal. If the decision were made in January, the outcome would be very different than what would be done to move it through this process,” said Nancy Reynolds.

Although the Planning Commission has made a recommendation on the project, the project cannot move forward unless the City Council votes “yes” in the next two readings before the end of the calendar year.