HomeMy WebLinkAboutLetter #137 Richard & Rachel Ash
Butler, Bric
From:Richard and Rachael Ash <ashfamily1@yahoo.com>
Sent:Monday, November 18, 2024 9:23 AM
To:Butler, Bric
Subject:Opposition to the Proposed Stout Farm Development
Dear Mr. Butler,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed Stout Farm development. As a resident of
the Village of WestClay, I am deeply concerned about the negative impact this project will have on the
character, safety, and quality of life in our community.
My family, like many others, have plentiful options for where we can live, yet we chose to invest in this
area for its open spaces, thoughtful planning, and lower-density housing. The proposed development
threatens to undermine these values and poses several significant concerns:
Traffic Congestion and Safety Risks:
o Towne Road is already heavily trafficked and incredibly dangerous, particularly for children
crossing on their way to the two elementary schools and one middle school on Shelbourne
Road. Adding the volume of commuters from this development will worsen the danger,
making it even less safe for children walking or biking to school. The increased traffic also
raises concerns about safety within neighborhoods where children play and ride bikes.
Leveraging Existing Investments:
o It is troubling that this builder is attempting to cut costs by leveraging the infrastructure,
investment, and character created by residents of the Village of WestClay and surrounding
neighborhoods. Development should enhance the community, not diminish it by exploiting
what others have built.
Substandard Builder Quality:
o The builder’s standards do not match the high-quality homes already present in west
Carmel. Approving this development would lower the bar for future projects, jeopardizing
the unique appeal of this area.
Inconsistent with West Carmel:
o The density, lack of greenspace, minimal setbacks, and uninspired architectural designs
are completely inconsistent with the character of the Village of WestClay and other west
Carmel neighborhoods.
Impact on Property Values:
o The combination of high density, poor quality, and a disregard for community standards
will likely inhibit property value growth in the area, a concern shared by many residents.
West Carmel was designed to be distinct from other parts of the city, offering a more open, less dense
environment. Changing this by allowing developments like Stout Farm erodes the reasons families
choose to live here. Furthermore, the zoning that was in place when we committed to this area should be
honored to maintain trust in the city’s planning process.
I urge the Planning Commission to reject this proposed development. I also plan to attend the meeting
on November 19 to further express these concerns in person.
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Thank you for your time and attention to this critical issue.
Dr. Richard Ash
13348 Broad Street, Carmel
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