HomeMy WebLinkAboutLetter #173 Ken BarthelKenneth R. Barthel
11570 Sutton Place Drive E, Carmel Indiana, 46032 ● 317.989.5430 ● KenB170@gmail.com
Mr. Mike Hollibaugh January 6, 2025
Department of Community Services (Planning & Zoning)
City of Carmel
One Civic Square, Carmel, Indiana. 46032
RE: Taylor Morrison amended plan – Clay Cottages
Hello Mr. Hollibaugh,
As I’m sure you are aware, I (as well as many other residents/tax payers) have consistently opposed development
proposals/plans that would fundamentally change the landscape of West Carmel.
Meaning, any plans/proposals that in any way; reduce setbacks, reduce height restrictions, increase density,
promote “zero” lot line developments, or constructing multi-family type units (townhomes, duplexes, build-to-
rent, PUDs etc.) in this area of Carmel are simply unacceptable.
I received the latest amended plan for the Taylor Morrison – Clay Cottages and have reviewed the document. I
find the amended plan and the attempt to appease local residents with these changes completely unacceptable.
Specifically, the amended plan fails to adequately address density concerns. Density remains at a completely
unacceptable level (2.83 dwellings per acre). Additionally, they continue to suggest that their development
somehow compares to the Village of West Clay, and I find that farcical. Additionally, from what I see with regards
to the dwelling design changes, I would still expect this development to potentially attract out-of-town or
potentially foreign investors aimed at collecting rental income versus creating an owner-occupied neighborhood.
And STILL no details provided on whether there would be restrictions on rentals in this new development. Since
this was a significant issue raised at the last meeting, I’m quite surprised they didn’t address this topic.
While these types of developments may have a place in an urban section of our city, West Carmel is simply not
that place. I’m hopeful that City officials (Mayor, Council members, and the planning and zoning) would listen to
their constituency and NOT approve zoning that would permit this development plan to move forward.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
_______________________
Copy:
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