During a recent government meeting in Carson City, residents voiced their concerns regarding ongoing developments and their impact on the community. Gene Munnings, a local business owner, expressed frustration over being forced out of business by a nearby marijuana dispensary, highlighting the challenges faced by small businesses in the area. He urged the council to support new retail ventures in vacant buildings, emphasizing the need for revitalization.
Laura Carlson, a resident whose property backs up to John Menken's Park, raised issues about the long-vacant Kmart building, which has become an eyesore. She noted that the previous owner neglected the property, leading to safety concerns, particularly with children riding bikes in the area. Carlson also mentioned the recent approval of 52 townhomes, which were initially expected to be sold to homeowners but have instead turned into rentals, contributing to increased traffic and safety issues on College Parkway.
Carlson and fellow resident Heather Coe expressed worries about traffic safety, particularly with the influx of college students and the potential for accidents at intersections near new developments. They called for measures to mitigate these risks, including restricting left turns from new housing developments onto busy roads. Coe added that the ongoing developments are driving some residents out of the area, further complicating the community's dynamics.
The meeting underscored the tension between development and community safety, with residents advocating for more proactive measures to address traffic and safety concerns as the city continues to grow.