2009-07-06 - Laserfiche WebLink

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5 The public hearing was opened. Mr. Brian Hogg, 2611 Jefferson Park Circle, said the proposal provides a good balance between redevelopment and mixed incomes. He said the proffers have a larger neighborhood impact. He encouraged Council to approve the rezoning. Ms. Cindy Stratton, 122-B Longwood Drive, said she has lived at this location for 22 years. She said she has concerns about the rezoning, and urged Council to consider the impact on the current residents. She said the parking situation is deplorable and parking needs will increase. She said there has been an arrogant lack of communication with the neighbors and with Jackson-Via School. She said she does not want to see gentrification happen again. Ms. Colette Hall, 104 Robertson Lane, asked if the plan will add a new entrance to the neighborhood, and Mr. Norris said no. Ms. Hall said she thought the City was looking at having two exits with PUDs. Mr. Wali Zakee, 116-B Longwood Drive, said he has concerns about density and safety for children. He said the parking situation is deplorable and the rezoning will add traffic. He said he is not sure how close the trails will be to the units. He said there is a problem now with trash on City property and he is concerned there will be more debris on the trail. Mr. Cal Tate, 104-B Longwood Drive, spoke in favor of the plan as he thinks it will improve the quality of life in the neighborhood. He said he has seen improvement with the properties and he thinks the management will make an effort to improve diversity and sustain the neighborhood. A resident of 101-A Longwood Drive, said she has seen major improvement in the neighborhood and is in favor of the rezoning. Ms. Allyson Ruffner, 735 Graves Street, said she saw improvements in Belmont when home ownership increased. She said Council should think about the impact on the whole area. Ms. Cynthia Anderson, 103-B Longwood Drive, supported the rezoning. Ms. Jennifer Halbert, 108 Longwood Drive, said she has seen improvements in the neighborhood and in the long run thinks there will be a great improvement. As there were no further speakers, the public hearing was closed. Responding to questions from Mr. Norris, Mr. Haluska said that adding entrances with PUDs depends on whether there are concerns about access. He noted that there is a platted right of way for future access. He said the next step in the process will be for the applicant to present a site plan to NDS and the Planning Commission to assure that the site plan matches the conceptual plan. He said the plans provide for an additional 76 parking spaces, and there will likely be a decrease in the demand for on-street parking. Responding to a question from Mr. Norris, Mr. Spurzem said that a chokepoint has been designed for traffic calming. He said there may be a need for more speed humps. He said in the future there will be a second way in and out. Mr. Huja said he thinks the PUD will make for a better development and a better neighborhood, and will provide more affordable housing. He said it is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and will help stabilize the neighborhood. Mr. Taliaferro said he agrees with Mr. Huja and thinks it will improve the neighborhood. Ms. Edwards said she is in favor of making improvements to the neighborhood, but is not sure that requires a PUD. She said she wished there had been more interaction