In a recent government meeting, residents of Elgin Avenue voiced their concerns regarding a prolonged development project near the Meramec River, which they believe poses environmental risks and disrupts their community. The meeting featured public comments from local residents, including Steven Chase, who has lived in the area for nearly 20 years. Chase expressed frustration over the decade-long development process, which he claims has transformed the once-wooded area into a barren landscape, negatively impacting local wildlife.

Chase highlighted that when he purchased his property, he was assured by real estate agents that the land between his home and the river was undevelopable due to its location in a floodplain. He argued that the ongoing development contradicts this assurance and warned that changing weather patterns could exacerbate flooding risks in the future. He urged the board to reconsider the project, suggesting that it is not too late to halt the development and restore the area to its natural state.

Another resident, James LeBlanc, echoed Chase's sentiments, affirming the validity of the concerns raised by his neighbors. The residents are calling for the board to take action to protect their community and the environment, emphasizing the need for responsible development practices.

The meeting underscored the tension between development and environmental preservation, as residents seek to reclaim their neighborhood from what they perceive as detrimental changes. The board is expected to continue discussions on the matter, weighing the residents' concerns against the development plans.