HomeMy WebLinkAboutLetter #01 Steve & Rosanne Burge Attn: Department of Community Services
RE: Docket Nos. 20010016 UV, 20010017 V, PZ-2020-00018 V and 20010015 DP/ADLS
Last week we received notification that the owners of the property directly behind our house at 155
West Carmel Drive are seeking several variances to erect a 3-story storage unit. We are vehemently
opposed to approval of these variances.
We moved to this area to be close to the fine amenities Carmel has to offer and enjoy the quiet quaint
neighborhood. While we knew we backed up to storage units, we have invested significantly in our
landscaping to shield our view of its one-story industrial feel. With such a small back yard, there is little
additional landscaping we can do that would hide a 3-story unit.
We have several points for the committee to consider as they thoughtfully consider denying this
request:
1. The Range Line Road Overlay District specifically prohibits storage units. There are reasons the
city specifically called out these types of structures for this area as this, and the other prohibited
uses, will not protect and enhance the welfare of property owners, which the overlay is
specifically designed to do.
2. The owners are proposing metal siding as the "primary building material." There are no other
structures in this district with this type of material. Approval of this material would set a
standard that would greatly diminish the aesthetics the city is attempting to achieve.
3. Most importantly,this property contains several other one-story storage units. Approving the
replacement of one building with a 3-story storage unit will set a precedent, opening the door
for the owners to replace the other one storage units with more lucrative 3-story units. These
units are within 10 feet of our very small back yard. If these units are turned into 3 stories, we
would essentially be looking a wall just a few feet from our back door.
I'm sure I speak for not only those in our neighborhood who will be negatively impacted by this, but for
other Carmel residents who look to our elected officials to not only consider the facade from the street,
but the impact these developments have on surrounding neighborhoods.
Best regards,
2-
Steve & Rosanne Burge
1574 Quail Glen Ct
Carmel, IN 46032