A Council Member Has Enough

The "Go Along to Get Along" Approach has its limits

The Community and Economic Development Committee meeting on July 29th chaired by Jeff Schilling, brought to light significant concerns about urban planning and development in Troy. The meeting's focal point was the approval of a final plat for the first phase of the Reserve of Cliff Oaks subdivision, a traditional cookie-cutter subdivision filled with houses that are out of reach of the typical Troy family.

The discussion sparked a passionate debate about the city's approach to community planning. Mr. Schilling's comments during the discussion were particularly noteworthy, as they highlighted a forward-thinking perspective on development. The Councilman expressed continued frustration with the city's existing subdivision regulations, a set of regulations that often incentivize the cookie-cutter approach that are far too common in the community. His concerns reflect a growing awareness of the importance of integrated, walkable, and bike-friendly communities that are within reach of Troy’s families and workforce.

While everyone at the meeting fully recognized that the city is undergoing a new comprehensive plan update with new zoning codes and subdivision regulations to follow, these new standards are years away from being implemented. And the problem is that time is not on Troy’s side. As more and more land on both the city’s northeast and western sides get annexed, it is understood that more and more developers are going to create more housing developments that aren’t going to meet the housing needs of the residents that live here.

During the meeting, Mr. Schilling made his point very clear. He understood that the updates to the zoning code and subdivision regulations are what they are and will not be changed any time soon. But, Mr. Schilling also understood that there are few opportunities for him to express his frustration at the lack of progress on making Troy’s new housing developments better fit the needs of the community. In other words, Mr. Schilling understands the work that needs to be done, he is simply arguing that this work should have been done years ago. Each day that passes by is a lost opportunity.

The discussion initiated by Mr. Shelling should serve as a valuable catalyst for broader conversations about Troy's future, especially considering that the city is undergoing a new comprehensive plan. By raising these concerns, he has effectively put the spotlight on the need for more citizen-centric development practices and his advocacy for multi-use recreational trails not only addresses immediate community needs but also aligns with broader trends that prioritize sustainability, health, and quality of life.

However, to watch the discussion that unfolded, it appeared to a majority of the committee that discussion was simply unwarranted and unwanted. The subdivision met the requirements and therefore should be approved — no questions needed to be asked, no discussion needed to take place. One member went so far as to press Mr. Schilling to articulate his reasons for not going with the other members of the committee. Mr. Schilling clearly articulated his thoughts during the fifteen-minute discussion and is well within his rights to not go along with the rest of the committee. Seeing such groupthink on full display was disappointing and disrespectful to Mr. Schilling and, really, the public in general.

Council committee meetings are designed to be forums for deeper discussions; or at least that is the explanation given to the public about these meetings. Mr. Schilling, just like any other member, is well within their rights to have a deeper discussion about the vices and virtues of our current zoning code and subdivision regulations and articulate his thoughts on these matters.

Mr. Schilling's willingness to go against the majority of the committee and file a minority report underscores the strength of his convictions and his dedication to pushing for what he believes is best for our citizens. In all reality, Mr Schilling could have pushed the procedural envelope further, but he showed restraint in his comments.

The Sixth-Ward Councilman represents a call to action for Troy to be more proactive and visionary in its approach to development and his willingness to challenge the status quo and push for immediate improvements, even in the face of procedural hurdles, demonstrates a commendable commitment to the long-term well-being of Troy's residents.

As the city continues to grow and evolve, voices like Mr. Schilling's will be crucial in ensuring that development aligns with modern land use principles and the changing needs of our hometown.

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