They make a fixed gear district with a chain. That might be closer to what you want?

Are you getting all distracted by that belt thing? you can't change gear ratios if you ever decide to, and sounds like you can't go fixed with it. A properly set up chain drive is smooth and quiet.

I think you will probably want some larger tires for winter. Are you sure even the 28mm will work? I have some on my bike, but had to dremmel out the brakes so they didn't rub on the calipers, and in the rear I have to use gearing/chain lenght that will get me at the back half of the dropout.

Food for though.