ColdTowne Theater
Code Concerns
RECEIVED Mon., May 6, 2019
Dear Editor,
While I understand the enthusiasm about the proposed zoning code, I have four areas of grave concern regarding its proposals and implementation.
I’m concerned about reduction of permeable surface, which increases flooding potential (look at Houston!) and reduction of the tree population, which increases already soaring summer temps and reduces capacity of our eco-air filtering system. Such consequences are irreversible and I hope we avoid them.
I’m curious to know whether affected single-family residences, duplexes, and quads will be protected from having structures more than two stories high immediately adjoining their properties. Will existing homes that are rezoned as multifamily property have their taxes soar, or be grandfathered in to a sustainable tax rate for as long as current owners live in them? What steps will be taken to ensure that new structures are “middle market” in price rather than dense luxury homes?
I’m concerned about the impact of reducing parking requirements. Public transportation isn’t available in my neighborhood, and bicycling isn’t an option. I never shop, dine, or attend events Downtown due to traffic and the lack of convenient and affordable parking. Soon I may be unable to shop or visit friends in neighborhoods near dense housing zones for the same reason.
Finally, I’m concerned about the emotional impact and trauma caused to older residents who have lived in impacted homes for decades. Will taxes soar to the point they will be priced out of the sanctuary of longtime homes at a vulnerable age? I pray for compassion!
While I understand the enthusiasm about the proposed zoning code, I have four areas of grave concern regarding its proposals and implementation.
I’m concerned about reduction of permeable surface, which increases flooding potential (look at Houston!) and reduction of the tree population, which increases already soaring summer temps and reduces capacity of our eco-air filtering system. Such consequences are irreversible and I hope we avoid them.
I’m curious to know whether affected single-family residences, duplexes, and quads will be protected from having structures more than two stories high immediately adjoining their properties. Will existing homes that are rezoned as multifamily property have their taxes soar, or be grandfathered in to a sustainable tax rate for as long as current owners live in them? What steps will be taken to ensure that new structures are “middle market” in price rather than dense luxury homes?
I’m concerned about the impact of reducing parking requirements. Public transportation isn’t available in my neighborhood, and bicycling isn’t an option. I never shop, dine, or attend events Downtown due to traffic and the lack of convenient and affordable parking. Soon I may be unable to shop or visit friends in neighborhoods near dense housing zones for the same reason.
Finally, I’m concerned about the emotional impact and trauma caused to older residents who have lived in impacted homes for decades. Will taxes soar to the point they will be priced out of the sanctuary of longtime homes at a vulnerable age? I pray for compassion!
Sharon Lippincott
