Residents voiced significant concerns during a recent government meeting regarding proposed housing developments and public safety issues in their neighborhoods.

One of the most pressing topics was the plan to construct 18 homes on a 3.5-acre plot along Scott Road, a narrow street that currently accommodates only single-car traffic. Local resident Kaye Holtzclaw passionately opposed the development, citing the potential for increased traffic congestion and safety hazards, particularly given her personal struggles with her husband's health issues. She expressed frustration over a lack of communication regarding the approval process, noting that residents were unaware of the changes until signs appeared in their neighborhood.

Frank Hoeksklaue, another resident, echoed Holtzclaw's concerns, questioning the transparency of the zoning process. He highlighted discrepancies in property identification and expressed confusion over the rapid progression of the project without adequate public input. Hoeksklaue called for visual representations of the proposed development to better inform the community.

Public safety was another critical issue raised, particularly regarding speeding vehicles and drug activity in the Birch Road and Yancey Drive areas. Chris Bridal, a resident who recently lost his brother to gun violence, urged local authorities to install surveillance cameras to deter crime and improve safety. He criticized the lack of police presence in his neighborhood, suggesting that law enforcement resources were being misallocated to areas with less urgent needs.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between community development and resident safety, with attendees calling for more engagement and transparency from local officials in addressing their concerns.