During a recent council meeting, community members expressed strong concerns about the proposed ordinance related to Factory 52. Carmen McKeon, a local resident, highlighted the initial excitement surrounding the development, which promised new restaurants and entertainment. However, she noted that this enthusiasm quickly turned into frustration due to traffic, parking, and safety issues that arose after its establishment.

McKeon urged the council to delay the second and third readings of the ordinance. She emphasized that the purpose of having multiple readings is to allow the community to voice their concerns and for council members to consider these issues thoroughly. She argued that rushing through the readings would prevent meaningful dialogue and compromise.

A key point of contention was the proposed tax associated with Factory 52. McKeon explained that this tax would not fund essential community services like police and fire departments. Instead, it would primarily benefit the developer, PLK, raising questions about the sustainability of the development without this financial support. She criticized the proposed board structure for the tax authority, which would include three members chosen by the developer, suggesting it was biased and inadequate.

Following McKeon, Terry Meager also addressed the council, echoing concerns about the process of reading ordinances. He pointed out that allowing all three readings in one meeting limits public input and does not give citizens a fair chance to express their opinions. Meager stressed the importance of public hearings and the need for the council to be accountable to the community.

Both speakers called for more transparency and community involvement in the decision-making process, urging the council to reconsider how they handle readings and public input on significant issues affecting the neighborhood.