The Huntington Board has approved the development of Melville Crossing, a mixed-use community that will include housing, retail space, and public gathering areas. The approval follows years of planning and months of negotiations, and a public hearing which divided the community. Supporters argued that the project is necessary as a response to a regional housing crisis, while opponents raised concerns about school funding, infrastructure strain, and environmental impact. Councilman Dave Bennardo supported the project as a long-term financial gain for the Half Hollow Hills school district. He also supported requiring developers to sign agreements to offset the impact of the project through town-wide agreements. Critics argue that PILOT agreements can limit immediate revenue for schools even as new housing brings added costs.