Residents of Zionsville gathered for a recent Village Residents Association meeting, expressing concerns about local development and its impact on the community. Mayor John Stair and Councilwoman Sarah Sampson attended the meeting, where several residents voiced their opinions on the proposed South Main development.

One resident raised questions about the expected increase in population and traffic from the new development. They also inquired about the sewage capacity and the costs associated with necessary upgrades. Concerns about the potential impact on local taxes and school funding were highlighted, particularly as the community has seen a decline in graduating seniors over the years.

Another resident, Reid Barnes, emphasized the importance of maintaining Zionsville's unique character. He argued that the South Village Planned Unit Development (PUD) could detract from the town's historic charm. He called for more information on how the new development would integrate with existing structures and questioned the proposed green space location, suggesting that it might disrupt local parking.

Yvonne Koch sought clarity on the town's comprehensive plan, noting discrepancies between statements made by the mayor and other officials regarding workforce housing and commercial development. She stressed the need for transparency in the decision-making process, especially concerning the use of grant money for development.

Regina Sherrow expressed excitement for development but insisted that it must be the right kind. She questioned how new housing would benefit local schools and criticized the design of the proposed parking structures, which she felt would not be pedestrian-friendly.

Deb Clay raised concerns about Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and its implications for local funding. She urged officials to explain TIFs to residents, emphasizing that many may not understand how these financial tools could affect their taxes and community resources.

Overall, the meeting highlighted a strong desire among residents to preserve Zionsville's character while navigating the challenges of growth and development. Many voiced a commitment to ensuring that any changes serve the interests of current residents rather than outside developers.