HomeMy WebLinkAboutLetter #155 Ken BarthelKenneth R. Barthel
11570 Sutton Place Drive E, Carmel Indiana, 46032 ● 317.989.5430 ● KenB170@gmail.com
Mr. Mike Hollibaugh November 6, 2024
Department of Community Services (Planning & Zoning)
City of Carmel
One Civic Square, Carmel, Indiana. 46032
Hello Mr. Hollibaugh,
I am a homeowner in the Huntington Chase subdivision located at 116th Street and Towne Road. I
purchased my home in 2015 specifically in and for the West Carmel location, low-density single-
family homes, less congestion, and green space. This after exploring many areas of metro
Indianapolis and Hamilton County.
In regards to the current proposal for the Taylor & Morrison development of 142 units (126th Street
and Towne Road) I must say that after the clear opposition to the last proposal for that property, I am
surprised the city would even entertain a change to the zoning that would allow a high-density
development.
I am absolutely NOT in support of changing the single-family lot zoning (S-1) in any way that would
reduce setbacks, height restrictions, promote “zero” lot line developments, or building multi-family
type units (townhomes, duplexes, build-to-rent, PUDs etc.) that would increase density in this area of
Carmel. Furthermore, the proposal does not reflect the quality of surrounding homes thus dragging
down property values of neighborhoods in the area. The plan calls for 75% to 90% coverage and 5-
foot buffer to the Village and this is unacceptable amount of green space.
Additionally, Prices at $450K given the low square footage would suggest lower quality/amenities,
although information is not yet available (trim level, etc.). Furthermore, I would expect these price
points to attract out-of-town or potentially foreign investors aimed at collecting rental income versus
creating an owner-occupied neighborhood. An attendee at the meeting in the Village pointed to one
of the recent developments along Guilford Road (also at a $450K price point) which currently
operates at a 61% rental rate for the neighborhood. No details were provided on whether there
would be restrictions on rentals in this new development. Jon Dobowicz who presented on a
previous plan for this location said this information would be provided before any voting process by
Carmel City Council, but later said information would be provided sooner or later.
While those developments may have a place in an urban section of our city, West Carmel being the
suburban/estate area is not that place. I would hope City officials (Mayor, Council members, and the
planning and zoning) would listen to their constituency and NOT approve a rezoning nor variance to
existing zoning which would permit this development or others similar.
Kenneth R. Barthel
11570 Sutton Place Drive E, Carmel Indiana, 46032 ● 317.989.5430 ● KenB170@gmail.com
As a homeowner, I appreciate efforts to continuously improve our city. However, this must be done
in a manner that is deemed reasonable and responsible. That means a reasonable balance between
proposed urbanization while maintaining the integrity of our existing neighborhoods and the
suburban parts of our city. Urban living areas need to remain in the urban sections and suburban /
estate sections need to remain as such. If we are to be a city for all to live, transforming the
suburban / estate area(s) by increasing density, and negatively affecting values of existing suburban
neighborhoods, does not make Carmel a city for all.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
_______________________
Copy to:
City Council
Adam Aasen, Dr. Anita Joshi, Jeff Worrell, Matt Snyder, Rich Taylor, Ryan Locke, Shannon
Minnaar, Teresa Ayers, Tony Green
Mayor’s Office
Mayor Sue Finkam