12/16/2025 Meeting Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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current proposal is far from sensitive to the area's character. Section 9.1 was then used to show compliance. The very first sentence should stop the development efforts. It states the goal of new construction is visual compatibility. I cannot think of anything less compatible than putting these attached structures on Butternut Ridge. The section then states in part, site design for new construction should take into consideration the alignment, orientation, spacing, massing, scale, and proportion relative to the framework of surrounding buildings. This proposal, again, just does not fit. Section 9.2 was then posted. All of the wording in this new construction visual compatibility section is contrary to proposed development. In fact, this section is better suited to argue against the project. Section 10, site design, was then used. Again, this states in part any site design should fit within the framework of surrounding buildings. This also is better evidence against the proposed development. These design guidelines are what's supposed to be followed. Other areas of the design guidelines document provide further evidence of inappropriateness. In the quick reference section, it states the collection of historic resources within the Butternut Ridge Historic District has created a unique community identity, neighborhood environment, and sense of place that cannot be replicated. It can be destroyed but not replicated. It further states design review protects the important character -defining features of the district. If these guidelines have meaning, the character -defining features will be substantially altered. The community identity will also be damaged, as this substantial change should be rejected. Section 1.1, history of Butternut Ridge. It is stated Butternut is a source of pride for the residents of the neighborhood, and as we're certainly finding out, the community at large. Why in the world would this area be disrespected against the wishes of those of us that live and invest here? Why would it be suggested altering this area would in any way benefit the City? It won't. Council President Brossard: Mr. Sharp, that's five minutes. Robert Sharp: Oh Lordie, okay, thank you. Mark Rodriguez: Mark Rodriguez, 26747 Butternut Ridge. We have lived on Butternut for 38 years. We moved here because of the character of the homes and tree -lined streets. Our home has been meticulously brought back to more of its original character. We have spent a lot of money, time, sweat -equity into our home. Not only were many of the windows painted shut, but all the baseboard moldings and oak staircase and maple woodwork and flooring had to be brought back to more of their original appearance. We recently spent $10,000 to repair our slate roof. I know many of my neighbors have been down the same road on their homes. I've seen it firsthand. On Butternut, each home is unique. Thank goodness there are no houses that have been slapped up and crammed into puny lots with cookie -cutter designs and questionable materials and workmanship. With our high tax rate, the city should have no financial issues compared to all the communities around us. The need to expand with more people and generic houses makes no sense on Butternut. This proposed development not only is a slap in the face to all those who live on Butternut, but it is a downright infringement on the very essence of 12-1.6-25 Council Meeting Minutes - Page :1.7