By Cindi Andrews
The Cincinnati Enquirer

DEERFIELD TWP. - Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy could receive permission tonight to build several soccer fields - including one that'll seat 600 spectators - near the Simpson Creek Farms subdivision.

The Board of Zoning Appeals will review Cincinnati Hills' plans at 6:30 p.m. at the township meeting room, 3292 U.S. 22/Ohio 3. The board had requested changes at an Oct. 7 meeting, but some neighbors remain opposed.

"You are arguing over whether you want to die with a lethal weapon or an electric chair," resident Isabel Davis said of the modifications requested.

The fields will bring too much traffic and noise too close to her subdivision, Ms. Davis said.

But similar athletic fields already exist nearby at Cottell Park, township Planner Jenny Kaage noted. The staff has recommended rezoning Cincinnati Hills' 20-acre site on Snider Road to allow the fields.

The Sycamore Township-based school wants to build a soccer field with 600-person-capacity bleachers right away.

It also plans to build three practice soccer fields, 1‡ practice football fields, restrooms, concessions and a maintenance building. The site would have more than 300 parking spaces.

Among the conditions recommended by the planning staff:

That a 6-foot-high wooden fence be built between the athletic fields and Simpson Creek Farms.

That the fields be used only by Cincinnati Hills High School's reserve and varsity soccer and football teams.

That lights be used only for varsity games and that they be turned off by 10 p.m.

E-mail candrews@enquirer.com