HomeMy WebLinkAboutLetter #01 Carol Applegate
January 10, 2025
City of Carmel
Department of Community Services
Carmel Planning /Zoning Division
1 Civic Sq., 3rd Floor
Carmel, IN 46202
To the Planning and Zoning Division,
I am writing to offer my strong support for Story Cottage’s proposed custom-designed home at 11180
Westfield Blvd. As both an RN and an attorney specializing in senior legal and care issues—and having
had a family member receive excellent care from Senior Home Companions, a sister company to Story
Cottage—I have a unique perspective on why this project will benefit our community.
The small-scale, home-like model of Story Cottage is an outstanding concept, particularly for older adults
experiencing memory loss. With a small number of residents, a high staff-to-resident ratio, and a
residential setting, Story Cottage delivers exceptional care without compromising the peace and
character of the surrounding neighborhood. This approach also helps prevent unnecessary
hospitalizations and eases the strain on emergency services, offering broader benefits for the city.
An estimated almost 11% of Hoosiers over 65 are living with dementia and this number is only set to
grow as our population ages. There are too few resources available to support our older adults and their
families.
Approving Story Cottage’s zoning request would fill a critical gap in Carmel’s senior care options,
reflecting our community ’s commitment to supporting our aging population with dignity and
compassion. If you have any questions or need more information, please feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
Carol Applegate, JD, RN
Attorney