During a recent public hearing, residents voiced significant concerns regarding a proposed rezoning in their community, particularly focusing on traffic and environmental impacts. The meeting, which aimed to discuss the rezoning of land adjacent to residential properties, highlighted the apprehensions of local homeowners about the potential consequences of increased development.

David Branchaw, a resident directly north of the proposed site, raised alarms about the plan to construct parking lots near his property, suggesting it could encroach on a floodplain and exacerbate flooding issues he has already experienced. He emphasized that filling in parts of the floodplain could lead to severe consequences for his home and the surrounding area.

Other residents echoed similar sentiments, particularly regarding traffic safety. Elaine Jeris, a local resident, described the intersection of Hanford and Ridge as dangerous, urging local authorities to address the hazardous conditions. Laurie Barnett, another resident, expressed her concerns about the changing character of the neighborhood, lamenting the loss of its rural charm and the potential for increased traffic congestion.

John Bernard, living close to the proposed site, shared his fears about flooding from Fellows Creek, which he noted had come alarmingly close to his home during recent weather events. He questioned how the development would impact the creek and whether it would lead to further flooding risks.

Gugan Kaur highlighted the already congested Ford Road, the main thoroughfare for residents, stressing that any additional traffic from the proposed development could worsen the situation. She pointed out that current traffic conditions often lead to long delays, particularly during peak hours.

The meeting underscored a community deeply concerned about the implications of the proposed rezoning, with residents calling for careful consideration of traffic studies and environmental assessments before any decisions are made. The board reminded attendees that the focus of the hearing was strictly on the rezoning aspect, with a separate discussion planned for the special land use in the future.