The Willoughby Hills Architectural Review Board recently met with Dollar General contractors in a work session to discuss a potential location at 33901 Chardon Road. Mayor Chris Hallum observed that residents who came to the meeting shared their opposition to the project. “It was clear from the discussion that we are unhappy with the proposed construction and location of the project,” he said. “We were also disappointed that there was no representation from Dollar General to answer any of the important questions from the board and residents alike.” Among the concerns that were shared during the meeting included crime, traffic and lighting, as well as there already being many Dollar General and Dollar Trees locations. “City meets the country?” said resident Dave Karafa. “Might as well take the signs down because this doesn’t represent city meets the country. I remember Willoughby Hills as it was. We understand economic development and the value of it, but when you look at this — there’s going to be lights all over the place, noise and crime.” Karafa further said that people reside in the city because the crime rate is low. “There’s Dollar Generals all over the place,” he said. “We’re opposed to it.” Another resident expressed concerns in regard to the intersection where the proposed Dollar General would be located, believing it would add traffic. According to Craig Bishop, who is working alongside Zane King, the developer of the proposed location, they are working with the city to try to address as many comments as they can. “Zane’s proposing to build a 10,640-square-foot Dollar General store with 43 parking spaces that meet the ordinance and code requirements,” Bishop said. “We will have a sidewalk and landscaping, and a storm basin in the back collecting water.” A traffic analysis was done based on trips to and from the proposed location, and no traffic improvements were warranted, Bishop said. Hallum said the city understands that the current zoning does allow for this type of business. However, due to its proximity to residences, the city needs to ensure that the utmost attention is given to details that may impact the quiet enjoyment of the homeowners, he said. Hallum plans to keep the public informed if another work session is planned for the proposed project. The next Architectural Review Board meeting is scheduled for Nov. 21.