Commission approves subdivision phase while tabling controversial driveway requirements
The Macedonia Planning Commission Monday approved a major subdivision phase and created an innovative solution for corporate signage standards while postponing action on controversial residential driveway requirements.
In the meeting’s most complex discussion, the commission found a creative pathway for Fifth Third Bank’s sign replacement project at their Alexandria Square location. The bank sought to replace existing neon signs with LED versions using trimless drop-in lettering, which didn’t conform to current standards requiring metal trim caps.
“This is their standard and the colors and all that same thing,” said John Benedict from Brilliant Electric Signs, explaining that the trimless design is Fifth Third’s corporate branding used at all locations.
Rather than forcing redesign or a variance, the commission added a special agenda item requesting Alexandria Square ownership amend their sign criteria to allow trimless lettering as an alternative. The signage was approved contingent on written property association approval, defaulting to standard trim caps if denied.
The commission gave final approval for Phase 1 of the Valley Reserve subdivision, clearing 36 home lots for development. Developer Chris Coblentz of Coblentz Homes resolved utility easement concerns raised by City Planner Brian Frantz, with engineer Dan Barc clarifying that Summit County requirements mandate specific separations between sanitary and water mains.
“Summit County does not allow us to truncate,” Barc explained regarding the 25-foot separation requirements.
The evening’s most contentious debate centered on proposed residential driveway standards requiring hard surface driveways for new construction and paved access to rear buildings designed for vehicle storage.
Commissioner Cox questioned the impact on larger properties: “If you have four acres and you want to put that thing all the way in back and just drive on the grass, at what point are we overreaching?”
Building Commissioner Monaco initiated the proposal to address gravel driveways that expand beyond boundaries and track debris onto roads. After extensive discussion, legal counsel Kevin Copeland suggested requesting City Council table the ordinance indefinitely, allowing the planning commission to initiate their own comprehensive amendment process.
The commission also addressed an ongoing issue with a Del Road property owner seeking to build a large garage. The resident faces requirements to remove existing structures after code interpretation limits properties to two accessory buildings, with larger structures requiring commission approval.
