Solon City Council Addresses Winery, Dispensary Concerns at June Meeting

The Solon City Council met June 2 to address several planning commission items, ongoing concerns about marijuana dispensaries, and conduct a public hearing on the proposed winery development. Here is a one-minute video summary of the meeting.

Planning Commission Approvals

Council approved multiple variance requests from the Planning Commission’s consent agenda. Residents Robert Kucinic on Willow Street, Rex Anderson on Broadstone Drive, and Vladimir Gantman on Glasgow Lane all received approval for accessory structure variances for sheds and setback modifications.

Liberty Hill Apartments received approval for a trash enclosure wall height variance, while St. Rita School and Pioneer Memorial Presbyterian Church both gained approval for pavilion construction with multiple setback and size variances.

The council modified one Planning Commission recommendation for JJJ Real Estate on Aurora Road, changing the timeline for allowing an accessory structure without a primary structure to end September 30, consistent with other developer agreements.

Generator and Amusement Device Ordinances Pass

Council unanimously passed two ordinance amendments under emergency provisions. The first updates noise regulations for residential generators, requiring screening like bushes or fencing rather than mandatory Planning Commission review for side-yard installations.

The second eliminates outdated regulations requiring fees for arcade-style games in businesses, removing what Councilman Macke Bentley called “archaic” requirements.

Marijuana Dispensary Opposition Grows

Multiple residents spoke against planned marijuana dispensaries during public comment. Bruce Santangelo noted that 61% of Hudson voters rejected dispensaries and questioned why Solon didn’t seek public input.

Jeff Pedicino, a former DARE officer, cited Ohio law 3780.25 allowing communities to opt out within 120 days of license issuance. Several speakers referenced concerns about proximity to schools and the community’s image.

Councilman Bob Shimits made a motion to return the dispensary issue to council for potential ballot consideration, though Mayor Edward Krause suggested waiting for Law Director analysis before proceeding.

Winery Public Hearing Continues

The public hearing for the proposed winery at Aurora Road drew both support and opposition. Supporters cited economic benefits and reduced residential development, while opponents raised traffic and residential impact concerns.

Michael and Matt Sciocca, the project developers, presented updated plans showing removed residential components and enhanced screening. The facility would include 316 parking spaces with tree islands and eight-foot arborvitae screening along property lines.

Patrick Pesey from Woodlands Lane questioned placing a commercial operation in residential zoning, while business owner Saivar Thordarson supported the project as beneficial for local commerce.

Fire Chief Retirement

Fire Chief Mark Vedder announced his retirement after 39 years with the city. Council members praised his leadership during the pandemic and modernization efforts. Mayor Krause highlighted the department’s advanced training and technology improvements under Vedder’s leadership.

The council will continue the winery public hearing at their June 16 meeting, with Law Director review of dispensary options expected before the next session.