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HomeMy WebLinkAbout00003059 (2)Page I of 2 Pohl, Bryan W From: Littlejohn, David W Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 3:24 PM To: Pohl, Bryan W Subject: RE: Couple things - One important, One not Bryan, There were two projects going on at one time in that location so I'm not sure which project the debris would be from, but I can answer questions about the construction of the trail. The trail was constructed as far as it could be last year and stopped about 100 feet short of Range Line Rd because of a utility box in the middle of the path's easement. We had to wait until this year's construction period to construct the remaining portion of the trail. Since then we have had issues with our contractor and right-of-way. I have contacted our consultant to make sure the construction materials for the trail are moved to a more appropriate location. It should be moved soon. It appears they are using that area as a staging location because there was no other available location when the materials where delivered. There should be a better place to locate the materials by now. If you need anything else let me know. David Littlejohn Alternative Transportation Coordinator Department of Community Services City of Carmel One Civic Sq Carmel, IN 46032 (317)571-2306 @A Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail From: Pohl, Bryan W Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 3:17 PM To: Littlejohn, David W Subject: RE: Couple things - One important, One not Thanks, David. Would you have any way of knowing what is going on with the construction there? It seems to just kind of have come to a halt. The contractor has placed all kids of debris right along the right-of-way there, and no construction has taken place for some time. I would love to know what the hold- up is... Bryan W. Pohl Code Enforcement Inspector City of Carmel One Civic Square Carmel, IN 46032 (317)571-2423 boohl(a)carmel. in.aov From: Littlejohn, David W Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 3:05 PM To: Pohl, Bryan W Subject: RE: Couple things - One important, One not Bryan, I just dropped off a copy of the original easement for the trail on the Ritter's property. It looks like the trail cut through the property and if you look at the site plan attached it shows the bank as the property owner. I also remember talking with some prospective developers on the property and they were concerned 7/21/2009 Page 2 of 2 about accessing the southern parcel (for drainage infrastructure). With all of these factors in mind I would say that the Heartland Bank is the property owner. If you need anything else regarding this please feel free to contact me. To use the bike just let me know when you can meet and I will go over the rules and info you need to know... It's not a big deal and should only take a couple of minutes. I will be in the office until about 3:00 in the afternoon, so any time before that should work. David Littlejohn Alternative Transportation Coordinator Department of Community Services City of Carmel One Civic Sq Carmel, IN 46032 (317)571-2306 A Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail From: Pohl, Bryan W Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 2:28 PM To: Littlejohn, David W Subject: Couple things - One important, One not Importance: High Hey, David, Do you know who owns the property just south of the new Monon Trail extension? I'm speaking of the property just south of the old Ritter's Custard stand where the trail was installed. I assumed the City bought all of this land Tom perkins told me to check with you. Othr thing- I need to use the departmental bike sometime in the next couple days to check on some banners along the Monon. What exactly do I need to do? Bryan W. Pohl Code Enforcement Inspector City of Carmel One Civic Square Carmel, IN 46032 (317)571-2423 boohl(a)carmel. in.gov 7/21 /2009 Page I of 7 Pohl, Bryan W From: Brainard, James C Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 1:58 PM To: 'Brent Claymon; Blanchard, Jim E Cc: Hollibaugh, Mike P; Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Claymon Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road If that is the case, let Dave Huffman at the Street Department know it needs to be mowed. Jim From: Brent Claymon [mailto:brent@claymongroup.com] Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 1:42 PM To: Brainard, James C; Blanchard, Jim E Cc: Hollibaugh, Mike P; Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Claymon Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road I believe the property is now owned by Carmel Brent S. Claymon Park Place Motors 921 N. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.569.0028 317.569.1460 fax 317.727.1818 cell brent aa)clavmonaroup.com www.ParkPlaceCarmel.com From: Brainard, James C [mailto:JBrainard@carmel.in.gov] Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 1:41 PM To: Brent Claymon; Blanchard, Jim E Cc: Hollibaugh, Mike P; Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Claymon Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Brent, I believe staff has issued notices there too. I will confirm that they have. Jim From: Brent Claymon [mailto:brent@claymongroup.com] Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 1:37 PM To: Brainard, James C; Blanchard, Jim E Cc: Hollibaugh, Mike P; Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Claymon Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road 7/21 /2009 Page 2 of 7 Any thoughts on the grass/weed situation on our side of the street? Brent Brent S. Claymon Park Place Motors 921 N. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.569.0028 317.569.1460 fax 317.727.1818 cell brent(a)claymongroup.com www, ParkPlaceCarmel.com From: Brainard, James C[mailto:JBrainard@carmel.in.gov] Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 12:57 PM To: Brent Claymon; Blanchard, Jim E Cc: Hollibaugh, Mike P; Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Claymon Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Brent, Thanks for the pictures. I have been driving by daily as well. We are issuing violation notices to the property owners. After that happens, they have so many days to clean up their property and if they do not the city can hire contractors, pay the cost and put a lien against the property for that cost. We are proceeding with that asap. Jim Brainard From: Brent Claymon [mailto:brent@claymongroup.com] Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 11:20 AM To: Blanchard, Jim E; Brainard, James C Cc: Hollibaugh, Mike P; Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Claymon Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Please see the attached pictures. The area along the portion of the trail next to our building is still full of weeds, in need of cutting, and as you know unfinished. It looks terrible and unfortunately is a direct reflection on our business. We removed the 2x4 boards along the side of the path next to our building and cut the grass along the bank as well. While it was initially seeded, most of the bank is weeds and/or bare spots. Along the trail head where it is not finished, the weeds are tall as debris is present. Across the street at the Ritter's property, the trail head was "almost' finished, however weeds are growing up. At the Ritter's property there remains construction material, trash, and overgrown shrubs. We understand the challenging situation, but would really appreciate just a little bit of extra attention to this area. The minor cost to "clean" this up would make a significant difference. 7/21/2009 Page 3 ot'7 Thank you, Brent Brent S. Claymon Park Place Motors 921 N. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.569.0028 317.569.1460 fax 317.727.1818 cell brent onclavmongroup.com www.ParkPlaceCarmel.com From: Blanchard, Jim E [mailto:JBlanchard@carmel.in.gov] Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2009 3:29 PM To: Brent Claymon; Brainard, James C Cc: Hollibaugh, Mike P; Pohl, Bryan W Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Good afternoon, Brent. Thank you for bringing this to our attention. This has been forwarded to Bryan Pohl, our code enforcement inspector for that area. An inspection has been made today, and we also posted a violation notice ORDER TO MOW. After seven days from today's date, we will have it mowed. Bryan will contact you with an update. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact him at bpohlCd,)carmel.in.gov or call him at 571-2423. Thank you, Jim Blanchard Building Commissioner From: Brent Claymon [mailto:brent@claymongroup.com] Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2009 1:00 PM To: Brainard, James C Cc: Blanchard, Jim E; Hollibaugh, Mike P Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Thank you for your quick response Brent S. Claymon Park Place Motors 921 N. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.569,0028 317.569.1460 fax 317.727.1818 cell b re n t (a), c l a v m o n g r o u p. c o m www.ParkPlaceCarmel.com 7/21 /2009 Page 4 of 7 From: Brainard, James C [mailto:JBrainard@carmel.in.gov] Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2009 12:59 PM To: Brent Claymon Cc: Blanchard, Jim E; Hollibaugh, Mike P Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Brent, I am sending your note to code enforcement who can make certain that the grass/weeds are mowed. If they are not the city can do the mowing and place a lien on the property for the cost. I agree that the Chinese restaurant site looks terrible. We will make sure the week ordinance is enforced and not let it get too tall and we can look at whether the building is sound. If not, we can make the owner raze it but that depends on the condition of the building —it is not illegal to have an empty building if it is maintained properly. Jim Brainard From: Brent Claymon [mailto:brent@claymongroup.com] Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2009 12:42 PM To: Brainard, James C Subject: North Rangeline Road Mayor Brainard - Per the messages we exchanged below, I wanted to see if you could have someone address the following: 1. You indicated that the trail project would be completed this Spring as it was suspended for the Winter. It has not been completed. When will this be done? Weeds are getting tall and it looks quite unsightly not to mention that some of the foundation where the trail was left is starting to deteriorate which will eventually start the concrete cracking and crumbling. This obviously is a result of things being left unfinished. 2. The former Ritters sight is very overgrown with weeds and looks terrible. 3. The former Chinese Restaurant North of us has been abandoned for years and presents a HORRIBLE image for Carmel as you drive in. 4. The grass area along Rangeline in front of our business was never brought back to the condition it was in prior to the road and bridge project, thus presenting a poor image for our business. The reason I bring these issues to your attention is that you indicated that 'when the city receives a complaint, we have no choice but to enforce the laws that were duly enacted by previous city councils". Please consider this a formal complaint on the aforementioned issues. We certainly understand why "yard signs" don't meeting the conformity of the enacted laws, but I definitely think you would agree that tasteful signs promoting ones business are more beneficial to Carmel, its businesses, and the Community then unfinished projects, unsightly property, and overgrown weeds. With all due respect, we follow the rules set out whether we agree or not, I would hope the City would at least maintain the integrity of a major entrance to the City by holding property owners accountable as well as the City's own capital projects. Thanks, Brent 7/21 /2009 Page 5 of 7 Brent S. Claymon Park Place Motors 921 N. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.569.0028 317.569.1460 fax 317.727.1818 cell brent(a)clavmongrouo.com www.ParkPlaceCarmel.com From: Brent Claymon Sent: Wednesday, March 18, 2009 4:12 PM To: Brainard, James C Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Thank you for your reply. I agree that the projects will make things more attractive. I hope you understand that my frustrations were related to a combination of circumstances. I appreciate your perspective and think Carmel truly is a world class city. Brent From: Brainard, James C []Brainard@carmel.in.gov] Sent: Wednesday, March 18, 2009 3:38 PM To: Brent Claymon Cc: Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Claymon; Scott Schutz; Barry Kiesel Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Brent, I appreciate the fact that you have your business in Carmel. Hopefully, the road and other improvements to your area will make it more attractive and wroth more for you in the future. The trail project is not finished and was suspended for the winter. It will be completed this Spring. As to the signs, these laws are passed by the city council and when the city receives a complaint, we have no choice but to enforce the laws that were duly enacted by previous city councils. If you wish to discuss this in greater detail, please call me anytime. Jim Brainard 571-2401 From: Brent Claymon [mailto:brent@claymongroup.com] Sent: Monday, March 02, 2009 4:14 PM 7/21/2009 Page 6 of 7 To: Brainard, James C Cc: Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Claymon; Scott Schutz; Barry Kiesel Subject: North Rangeline Road Dear Mayor Brainard - We met with you back in mid-2008 to discuss the future of North Rangeline Road. We indicated a willingness to be cooperative, innovative, participatory, and most importantly "good neighbors". It was all of our desires to promote your vision for Carmel and to assist in the evolution of this initiative. With this said, we have encountered a challenge inconsistent with these discussions. As you know very well, Rangeline Road North of 136th Street was closed for approximately six months during the summer of 2008. This time period was unfortunately twice the expected construction plan, due to Carmel breaking it up into two projects vs. knocking it out at one time. Understandably, the round -about needed to be open for Carmel High School starting in August, however it appears no concern was ever taken for the various businesses that the delay affected. Another important issue that still remains open is that the project is YET TO BE FINISHED. The trail heads are not complete and a bigger issue for us is that some of our landscaped frontage property along Rangeline Road was never graded back to how it was prior to the construction nor was the grass replanted and construction site trash removed. We all are feeling the effects of the Global Recession and unfortunately with the road closure in spring 2008, we began to feel the effects of a severe business slowdown even earlier. We never asked for anything from Carmel when we bought Park Place Motors in early 2007 nor did we ask for help when Carmel effectively shut off our Customer's ability to access our location for 2008's prime car selling season (Summer & Fall). Attached you will find a Notice of Zoning Ordinance Violation for having a few "yard signs" in front of our Building (placed in the mud since Carmel has yet to repair the landscaping). The purpose of these signs was simply an attempt to create awareness for Park Place Motors by the passers by since our business has declined dramatically due to the Road being closed and the recession. While we certainly respect the "intent" of appropriate zoning ordinances, we find the nature of this complaint to be utterly petty and bureaucratically negligent toward honest taxpaying business owners and citizens of Carmel. We intended no harm and in fact, in addition to the tasteful signs we had displayed, our building was recently painted, the parking lot was resurfaced, and the overall appearance of our property was improved. In our opinion, take a drive up and down Rangeline and other Carmel roads and see what buildings look like, what kind of signs they display, etc. and see if the spirit of the ordinance is being consistently enforced or whether this is actually even the issue here. We think you will find promotional signs, for sale/lease signs, parking signs, business names, etc. all being of the "yard sign" variety. As entrepreneurs choosing to operate our business in Camel as well as being residents, property owners, and taxpayers, it is a very difficult pill to swallow when you have the City and its Administration working against you. We know you did not cause the recession, but you do have control 7/21/2009 Page 7 of 7 over your road improvement projects and when and how your choose to deal with so called "zoning violations". With all due respect, we have removed the signs per the required compliance of the ordinance violation. We request that you fulfill your part of the responsibility and complete the Road Project, repair the damage to our property and landscaping caused by the project, and hope you will analyze future situations like this with more qualitative analysis and consideration of those affected. Respectfully, Brent S. Claymon Park Place Motors 921 N. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.569.0028 317.569.1460 fax 317.727.1818 cell brent(cDclavmon arou o.com www.ParkPlaceCarmel.com 7/21/2009 Page I of 7 Pohl, Bryan W From: Brainard, James C Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 1:54 PM To: Pohl, Bryan W Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Bryan, would talk to the folks in GIS, probably Teresa Krueskamp, and make a determination who owns the land that directly abuts the trail to the south and get a citation issued. I had to drive visitors through this area yesterday and it does not look all that great yet. Thanks, Jim From: Pohl, Bryan W Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 1:52 PM To: Brainard, James C Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Mayor, On this portion of Range Line Road, I have issued orders to mow on the property north of the Dairy Queen, the Chinese buffet, and at the former Ritter's property. Last week, I had our contractor out to mow the former Ritter's site. It seems that they mowed everything north of the new trail. However, I'm not aware who even owns the land that directly abuts the trail to the south, which, I think, is the subject of his complaint across the street. I had originally thought that this was Parks Department property, but the GIS is very unclear as to ownership. As far as the trail abutting Mr. Clayman's property, I believe the Parks Department owns that. I have not had to issue any violations to them as of this email. Please let me know how I can be of further assistance. Sincerely, Bryan W. Pohl Code Enforcement Inspector City of Carmel One Civic Square Carmel, IN 46032 (317)571-2423 boohl(a)carmel.in.aov From: Brainard, James C Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 1:41 PM To: 'Brent Claymon'; Blanchard, Jim E Cc: Hollibaugh, Mike P; Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Clayman Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Brent, 1 believe staff has issued notices there too. I will confirm that they have. Jim 7/21/2009 Page 2 of 7 From: Brent Claymon [mailto:brent@claymongroup.com] Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 1:37 PM To: Brainard, James C; Blanchard, Jim E Cc: Hollibaugh, Mike P; Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Claymon Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Any thoughts on the grass/weed situation on our side of the street? Brent Brent S. Claymon Park Place Motors 921 N. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.569.0028 317.569.1460 fax 317.727.1818 cell brent cDclavmongroua.com www.ParkPlaceCarmel.com From: Brainard, James C[mailto:JBrainard@carmel.in.gov] Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 12:57 PM To: Brent Claymon; Blanchard, Jim E Cc: Hollibaugh, Mike P; Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Claymon Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Brent, Thanks for the pictures. I have been driving by daily as well. We are issuing violation notices to the property owners. After that happens, they have so many days to clean up their property and if they do not the city can hire contractors, pay the cost and put a lien against the property for that cost. We are proceeding with that asap. Jim Brainard From: Brent Claymon [mailto:brent@claymongroup.com] Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 11:20 AM To: Blanchard, Jim E; Brainard, James C Cc: Hollibaugh, Mike P; Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Claymon Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Please see the attached pictures. The area along the portion of the trail next to our building is still full of weeds, in need of cutting, and as you know unfinished. It looks terrible and unfortunately is a direct reflection on our business. We removed the 2x4 boards along the side of the path next to our building and cut the grass along the bank as well. While it was initially seeded, most of the bank is weeds and/or bare spots. Along the trail head where it is not finished, the weeds are tall as debris is present. 7/21/2009 Page 3 of 7 Across the street at the Ritter's property, the trail head was "almost' finished, however weeds are growing up. At the Ritter's property there remains construction material, trash, and overgrown shrubs. We understand the challenging situation, but would really appreciate just a little bit of extra attention to this area. The minor cost to "clean" this up would make a significant difference. Thank you, Brent Brent S. Claymon Park Place Motors 921 N. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.569.0028 317.569.1460 fax 317.727.1818 cell brent()claymongroup.com www.ParkPlaceCarmel.com From: Blanchard, Jim E [mailto:]Blanchard@carmel.in.gov] Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2009 3:29 PM To: Brent Claymon; Brainard, James C Cc: Hollibaugh, Mike P; Pohl, Bryan W Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Good afternoon, Brent. Thank you for bringing this to our attention. This has been forwarded to Bryan Pohl, our code enforcement inspector for that area. An inspection has been made today, and we also posted a violation notice ORDER TO MOW. After seven days from today's date, we will have it mowed. Bryan will contact you with an update. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact him at bpohl(@carmel.in.gov or call him at 571-2423. Thank you, Jim Blanchard Building Commissioner From: Brent Claymon [mailto:brent@claymongroup.com] Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2009 1:00 PM To: Brainard, James C Cc: Blanchard, Jim E; Hollibaugh, Mike P Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Thank you for your quick response Brent S. Claymon Park Place Motors 921 N. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.569.0028 7/21 /2009 Page 4 of 7 317.569.1460 fax 317.727.1818 cell b renKaDclavmonarou o.com www.ParkP[aceCarmel.com From: Brainard, James C [mailto.JBrainard@cannd.in.gov] Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2009 12:59 PM To: Brent Claymon Cc: Blanchard, Jim E; Hollibaugh, Mike P Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Brent, I am sending your note to code enforcement who can make certain that the grass/weeds are mowed. If they are not the city can do the mowing and place a lien on the property for the cost. I agree that the Chinese restaurant site looks terrible. We will make sure the week ordinance is enforced and not let it get too tall and we can look at whether the building is sound. If not, we can make the owner raze it but that depends on the condition of the building —it is not illegal to have an empty building if it is maintained properly. Jim Brainard From: Brent Claymon [mailto:brent@claymongroup.com] Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2009 12:42 PM To: Brainard, James C Subject: North Rangeline Road Mayor Brainard - Per the messages we exchanged below, I wanted to see if you could have someone address the following: 1. You indicated that the trail project would be completed this Spring as it was suspended for the Winter. It has not been completed. When will this be done? Weeds are getting tall and it looks quite unsightly not to mention that some of the foundation where the trail was left is starting to deteriorate which will eventually start the concrete cracking and crumbling. This obviously is a result of things being left unfinished. 2. The former Ritters sight is very overgrown with weeds and looks terrible. 3. The former Chinese Restaurant North of us has been abandoned for years and presents a HORRIBLE image for Carmel as you drive in. 4. The grass area along Rangeline in front of our business was never brought back to the condition it was in prior to the road and bridge project, thus presenting a poor image for our business. The reason I bring these issues to your attention is that you indicated that "when the city receives a complaint, we have no choice but to enforce the laws that were duly enacted by previous city councils". Please consider this a formal complaint on the aforementioned issues. We certainly understand why "yard signs" don't meeting the conformity of the enacted laws, but I definitely think you would agree that tasteful signs promoting ones business are more beneficial to Carmel, its businesses, and the Community then unfinished projects, unsightly property, and overgrown weeds. 7/21/2009 Page 5 of 7 With all due respect, we follow the rules set out whether we agree or not, I would hope the City would at least maintain the integrity of a major entrance to the City by holding property owners accountable as well as the City's own capital projects. Thanks, Brent Brent S. Claymon Park Place Motors 921 N. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.569.0028 317.569.1460 fax 317.727.1818 cell brenttudclavmono rou p.com www.ParkPlaceCarmel.com From: Brent Claymon Sent: Wednesday, March 18, 2009 4:12 PM To: Brainard, James C Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Thank you for your reply. I agree that the projects will make things more attractive. I hope you understand that my frustrations were related to a combination of circumstances. I appreciate your perspective and think Carmel truly is a world class city. Brent From: Brainard, James C [JBrainard@carmel.in.gov] Sent: Wednesday, March 18, 2009 3:38 PM To: Brent Claymon Cc: Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Claymon; Scott Schutz; Barry Kiesel Subject: RE: North Rangeline Road Brent, I appreciate the fact that you have your business in Carmel. Hopefully, the road and other improvements to your area will make it more attractive and wroth more for you in the future. The trail project is not finished and was suspended for the winter. It will be completed this Spring. As to the signs, these laws are passed by the city council and when the city receives a complaint, we have no choice but to enforce the laws that were duly enacted by previous city councils. If you wish to discuss this in greater detail, please call me anytime 7/21/2009 Page 6 of 7 Jim Brainard 571-2401 From: Brent Claymon [mailto:brent@claymongroup.com] Sent: Monday, March 02, 2009 4:14 PM To: Brainard, James C Cc: Pohl, Bryan W; Matthew S. Claymon; Scott Schutz; Barry Kiesel Subject: North Rangeline Road Dear Mayor Brainard - We met with you back in mid-2008 to discuss the future of North Rangeline Road. We indicated a willingness to be cooperative, innovative, participatory, and most importantly "good neighbors". It was all of our desires to promote your vision for Carmel and to assist in the evolution of this initiative. With this said, we have encountered a challenge inconsistent with these discussions. As you know very well, Rangeline Road North of 136th Street was closed for approximately six months during the summer of 2008. This time period was unfortunately twice the expected construction plan, due to Carmel breaking it up into two projects vs. knocking it out at one time. Understandably, the round -about needed to be open for Carmel High School starting in August, however it appears no concern was ever taken for the various businesses that the delay affected. Another important issue that still remains open is that the project is YET TO BE FINISHED. The trail heads are not complete and a bigger issue for us is that some of our landscaped frontage property along Rangeline Road was never graded back to how it was prior to the construction nor was the grass replanted and construction site trash removed. We all are feeling the effects of the Global Recession and unfortunately with the road closure in spring 2008, we began to feel the effects of a severe business slowdown even earlier. We never asked for anything from Carmel when we bought Park Place Motors in early 2007 nor did we ask for help when Carmel effectively shut off our Customer's ability to access our location for 2008's prime car selling season (Summer & Fall). Attached you will find a Notice of Zoning Ordinance Violation for having a few "yard signs" in front of our Building (placed in the mud since Carmel has yet to repair the landscaping). The purpose of these signs was simply an attempt to create awareness for Park Place Motors by the passers by since our business has declined dramatically due to the Road being closed and the recession. While we certainly respect the "intent" of appropriate zoning ordinances, we find the nature of this complaint to be utterly petty and bureaucratically negligent toward honest taxpaying business owners and citizens of Carmel. We intended no harm and in fact, in addition to the tasteful signs we had displayed, our building was recently painted, the parking lot was resurfaced, and the overall appearance of our property was improved. In our opinion, take a drive up and down Rangeline and other Carmel roads and see what buildings look like, what 7/21/2009 Page 7 of 7 kind of signs they display, etc. and see if the spirit of the ordinance is being consistently enforced or whether this is actually even the issue here. We think you will find promotional signs, for sale/lease signs, parking signs, business names, etc. all being of the 'yard sign" variety. As entrepreneurs choosing to operate our business in Camel as well as being residents, property owners, and taxpayers, it is a very difficult pill to swallow when you have the City and its Administration working against you. We know you did not cause the recession, but you do have control over your road improvement projects and when and how your choose to deal with so called "zoning violations". With all due respect, we have removed the signs per the required compliance of the ordinance violation. We request that you fulfill your part of the responsibility and complete the Road Project, repair the damage to our property and landscaping caused by the project, and hope you will analyze future situations like this with more qualitative analysis and consideration of those affected. Respectfully, Brent S. Claymon Park Place Motors 921 N. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.569.0028 317.569.1460 fax 317.727.1818 cell brent(cilclavmonarouo.com www.ParkPlaceCarmel.com 7/21/2009 Page 1 of 1 Pohl, Bryan W From: Perkins, Tom D Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 1:43 PM To: Pohl, Bryan W Cc: Blanchard, Jim E; Hollibaugh, Mike P Subject: RE: Ritters property Hey Bryan, I suggest checking with Jeremy Kashman in engineering, or David Littlejohn about where the right boundary lines are. Sorry, Tom From: Pohl, Bryan W Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 1:39 PM To: Perkins, Tom D Cc: Blanchard, Jim E; Hollibaugh, Mike P Subject: Ritters property Hi, Tom, I was copied in on an email from the Mayor about the Ritters property on North Rangeline. I actually had the weeds at this property mowed about a week ago. However, there remains construction material on the site, and the complainant states that there are still overgrown weeds. The only overgrown weeds I see at this point lie south of the trail extension. Is the property south of the trail extension also on the same site? It's hard to use GIS to judge, because the trail isn't on that aerial photo. If so, then I guess the complaint makes sense; however, I would be surprised if our easement just cut through the middle of the southern portion of their property. Perhaps I misjudged, but I assumed that the land to the south that is overgrown belonged to the Parks department and that they were planning on letting that "re -forest", so to speak. Also, is there any way of finding out who our contractor was for the trail install? I would also imagine that they need to be the ones to clean up the debris from construction. I've also copied Mike and Jim to see if they have any knowledge on this... Thanks in advance. Bryan W. Pohl Code Enforcement Inspector City of Carmel One Civic Square Cannel, IN 46032 (317)571-2423 boohl (o)ca rm el. i n.00v 7/21/2009