Residents of Southlake expressed their frustrations and hopes during a recent government meeting regarding a long-awaited development project in the Carillon neighborhood. The discussions highlighted a strong desire for progress after years of delays and uncertainty surrounding the project.
Mary Alford, a local resident, emphasized the improvements made since the project's initial approval in 2004, noting that the current plans for open park space are a significant upgrade from the original design. She advocated for the approval of homes with a minimum size of 1,600 square feet, arguing that there is a market for such homes, particularly among the 55 and older demographic, which constitutes a substantial portion of Southlake's population.
Susan Steinberger echoed Alford's sentiments, expressing fatigue over the prolonged development process. She praised the current developer for their efforts to engage with the community and adapt plans to meet residents' needs. Steinberger highlighted the potential of the project to enhance the area both commercially and residentially, urging the council to move forward without further delays.
Chris Mundy, another resident, shared his concerns about the uncertainty surrounding the project, questioning whether the issues stem from the developer or the city. He noted the demand for 1,600 square foot homes and stressed the importance of variability within the development to cater to different community needs.
Carl Elving, a nearby resident, raised a practical concern regarding the completion of phase one of the project, pointing out unfinished construction elements that he felt needed addressing.
Overall, the meeting underscored a collective desire among residents for the project to progress, reflecting a community eager for development that meets their needs and enhances their living environment. The public hearing remains open as the council considers the feedback from residents.