Residents oppose new hotel proposal in Manville's residential neighborhood

In the heart of Manvel, Texas, a community meeting unfolded under the bright lights of city hall, where residents voiced their concerns over a proposed hotel development that could reshape their neighborhood. The air was thick with apprehension as local voices echoed the same sentiment: the entrance of a hotel into their residential area was unwelcome.

John Littlejohn, a resident of Alabama Street, opened the discussion with a stark reminder of the community's existing infrastructure challenges. "We don't even have fire hydrants on our street," he lamented, questioning whether the city could support the additional demands of a hotel, from electricity to public safety. His concerns were echoed by many, who feared that the financial burden of such developments would ultimately fall on taxpayers.

As the meeting progressed, Terrence Price, a local mechanic, expressed his unease about the potential for increased crime and traffic congestion. "We don't know what's gonna happen," he said, referencing the negative impacts he had witnessed in other areas. His call for the hotel to be relocated was met with nods of agreement from fellow residents.

Andrea Desarmo, another concerned neighbor, highlighted the already challenging traffic conditions, particularly during school drop-off times. "It's a disaster," she stated, emphasizing that the neighborhood lacked the infrastructure to handle the influx of visitors a hotel would bring.

The chorus of opposition continued with Debbie Williams, who raised alarms about the possibility of the hotel becoming a less desirable establishment, reminiscent of troubled motels in nearby Alvin. "We don't want that at the entrance of our residential neighborhood," she asserted, a sentiment that resonated deeply with the crowd.

As more residents took to the podium, the message remained clear: the proposed hotel was seen as a threat to their community's safety and tranquility. Nicole McClinton, a grandmother of 14, shared her fears of increased traffic and crime, drawing from her experiences in neighborhoods affected by similar developments. "We would like to keep Manvel Plaza the way it is, peaceful," she urged.

The meeting concluded with a palpable sense of unity among the residents, who collectively opposed the hotel project. Their voices, filled with concern for their homes and families, painted a vivid picture of a community determined to protect its character amidst the pressures of growth. As the city considers the proposal, the residents of Manvel stand ready to advocate for their neighborhood, ensuring that their concerns are heard and addressed.