MILFORD - A proposed zoning change in Milford could pave the way for a large-scale retailer to come to the River's Edge at Milford development just inside the Interstate 275 loop.

The city planning commission heard public testimony and saw a presentation from the developer Wednesday evening for a zoning change, applied for by Cincinnati United Contractors, for 10 acres of land from light industrial to general business near the strip mall.

Thirty-three acres adjacent to the land in question are already zoned for retail. The development would have a half-dozen lots for banks, restaurants and smaller retail operations that would surround a major retail anchor.

Earlier this year many in Milford opposed a proposed Wal-Mart Supercenter on Ohio 28, saying the spot wasn't appropriate for another big retailer because it didn't have proper infrastructure.

But this zoning change is expected to get more support because the River's Edge area is already a popular retail development, said Jeff Wright, the city's director of development.

The city will likely vote on the zone change during its Oct. 6 meeting.

Councilman seeks outsiders' opinions

MASON - This Warren County city is seeking outside professionals to take a look at the traffic, noise and other issues surrounding the outdoor mall and retail strip center that's proposed for land off Interstate 71, near The Beach Waterpark.

Councilman Tony Bradburn suggested the idea during a recent council meeting after getting questions from residents. He argued that the third-party opinion could supplement comments from the city's planning commission and staff. City Manager Scot Lahrmer and City Engineer Richard Fair said it would be difficult to get the information before council discusses rezoning the land and the mall plans on Sept. 27 but would try to do so.

The Sept. 27 meeting starts at 7 p.m. at the municipal building, 6000 Mason-Montgomery Road.

Deerfield Day features concert and rides

DEERFIELD TWP. - The oldies band Ooh La La and the Greasers will highlight Saturday's annual Deerfield Day.

The event runs from noon to 8 p.m. at Cottell Park, 5847 Irwin-Simpson Road. The lawn concert starts at 6 p.m., though other entertainment and rides will run throughout the day.

Admission is free. Coolers and alcohol are not permitted. People can park at Anthem, 4361 Irwin-Simpson Road, and take the shuttle to the park.

Free skin cancer screenings offered

NORWOOD - Free skin cancer screenings will be offered Saturday by dermatology residents from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. The screenings will be provided from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Rookwood Commons in front of the Huntington Bank, next to Don Pablo's.

Residents can drop hazardous waste

WEST CHESTER TWP. - The township is sponsoring a household hazardous waste drop-off day for its residents Saturday. Township residents can bring items to the Voice of America property, 8070 Tylersville Road, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Items should not be taken to the Voice of America sports fields off Cox Road.

Accepted materials include all types of pesticides, fertilizers, batteries, paints and thinners, pool chemicals, automotive fluids and other corrosives and toxins. Appliances will also be accepted. Unacceptable materials include tires, explosives, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, fuel tanks or materials from farms, commercial and industrial sources.

Call 513-759-7241or e-mail rprinz@westchesteroh.org.

Contributors: Reid Forgrave, Erica Solvig, Tim Bonfield, Nancy Young