Neighbor raises safety and sidewalk concerns at hearing over 640 South Gordon rezoning

Mapleton — During a first-read public hearing on May 13, a resident urged council to delay consideration of a rezoning application at 640 South Gordon Road, arguing the street lacks adequate sidewalks and that new homes would increase risk for children walking to nearby schools.

Denny Wilson, who identified herself as a neighbor, told the council she walks past the property daily and described broken or missing sidewalks, parents forced to walk in the street, and speeding vehicles. She also said the site’s conceptual elevations looked like detached single-family houses rather than a joined duplex and asked council to visit the site before approving a rezoning.

Deputy Director Garver responded that the application proposes a two-unit duplex structure with an accessory dwelling unit at the rear; staff recommended that the approval be limited to the duplex only (two units) and that no habitable accessory dwelling unit be allowed. Staff’s recommended conditions also include a 10-foot undisturbed landscaped screening buffer adjacent to residential properties, modern farmhouse architecture and a maximum 40% impervious surface, with the applicant required to comply with water, sewer, stormwater, fire and DOT requirements.

Mayor Michael Owens closed the public hearing noting this was the item’s first reading and that no formal action would be taken tonight.

Next steps

Because this was the first reading, council took no vote. Staff will incorporate public comments into the file and the ordinance will return for a subsequent reading where council may act.