A proposed 60-unit affordable housing complex in Poland Township is moving through the early stages of approval.

The development, led by Frontier Community Services, aims to provide affordable housing for income-qualified families and individuals, but first, it must go through multiple zoning reviews and public hearings before a final decision is made.

Frontier Community Services, a nonprofit developer, has proposed the Villas of Poland, a housing development designed to offer affordable living options along Center Road (Route 224). The plan includes a community center, dog park, and playground to help foster a connected neighborhood.

However, before the project can move forward, it must first secure zoning approval. The Mahoning County Planning Commission will review the zoning request before sending it back to Poland Township for further consideration.

Poland Township Trustee Eric Ungaro says zoning requests like this are not uncommon, but this proposal presents unique challenges. He noted that the parcels in question are not currently zoned for multi-family housing, meaning the project would require zoning changes before any construction could begin. Ungaro also emphasized that public hearings will be held, allowing residents to share their input before a final decision is made.

Mahoning County Commissioner Anthony Traficanti explained that while the county reviews zoning requests, the ultimate decision will be made at the township level.

Keegan Booth, Director of Housing Development & Management Services for Frontier Community Services, says the project is still in the application phase, and a final decision on whether it will move forward is expected no earlier than May 2025. He says the development is intended to address a critical housing need in the area.

The zoning review process will continue over the next few months, with updates expected as public hearings and approvals move forward.