Residents of West Bend voiced strong concerns during a recent city council meeting regarding a proposed residential development that could bring up to 95 homes to an area previously designated for commercial use. The discussions highlighted significant apprehensions about the density of the project and its potential impact on the surrounding community.

Stacy, a local resident, raised questions about the rapid shift from an initial proposal of 90 homes to the newly reported 95, emphasizing a lack of communication with nearby businesses, including West Bend Insurance Company and Delta Defense, which were reportedly not informed about the development. She expressed concerns that the project, touted as the first new subdivision in a decade, had been pre-approved without adequate input from residents or consideration of the area's existing rural character.

City Administrator Jay Chambeau acknowledged the demand for new housing in West Bend but faced scrutiny over the project's density and the absence of a buffer zone between the proposed development and existing rural properties. Residents argued that the high density would disrupt the community's character and questioned the viability of the project, particularly regarding taxpayer funding through tax incremental financing.

Further complicating the discussion, Paul Rice, a former town chairman, criticized the lack of green space in similar developments, urging the council to consider the importance of parks and recreational areas for families. He also suggested that existing road infrastructure could alleviate traffic concerns if utilized properly.

New resident Jason Ketcha echoed these sentiments, advocating for a reduction in density from RS 4 to RS 3 zoning to better align with the area's character. He warned that if the council proceeded without addressing community concerns, residents would mobilize to oppose the development.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between the need for housing and the preservation of community values, as residents called for more thoughtful planning and engagement from city officials. The council's decision on the project remains pending, with community members eager for a resolution that respects their concerns.