Residents of Dutchers voiced significant concerns during a recent government meeting regarding traffic issues and infrastructure challenges in their neighborhoods. Eric Coburn, a local resident, highlighted the impact of heavy semi-truck traffic from Kimberly Clark, which he claims is damaging local roads and creating safety hazards. Coburn, who previously served as the president of the homeowners association, urged city officials to consider implementing speed humps to mitigate speeding through residential areas, particularly during school bus hours.

Coburn also raised alarms about the deteriorating condition of roads, specifically mentioning that parts of Harvard are beginning to cave in due to the increased traffic. He expressed frustration over the lack of effective law enforcement measures to address the speeding issues, noting that he has frequently reported violations to the police.

In addition to traffic concerns, Coburn addressed environmental issues related to water runoff from new developments. He explained that his neighborhood, which consists of 227 homes, has been adversely affected by silt runoff from surrounding areas, leading to costly repairs for community ponds. Coburn emphasized the need for better management of water runoff, particularly as new neighborhoods are developed nearby.

The meeting concluded with a call for the applicant to address these community concerns, as residents urged city officials to carefully consider the implications of ongoing development in the area. The discussions underscored the need for a balanced approach to growth that prioritizes both infrastructure integrity and community safety.