Smithville aldermen approve rezoning at Second Creek Bridge over residents' objections

The Smithville Board of Aldermen voted Aug. 5 to approve Bill No. 3072-25, changing zoning classifications for property at the northeast corner of Second Creek Bridge and Lowman Road.

Residents who live near the site told the board they fear denser residential development will bring more traffic, higher noise and falling property values. Cindy Hadley (520 Second Creek Road) said she opposed dense residential construction near her home. Roberta Lowman (16251 Lowman Road) questioned language in the Findings of Fact and asked how staff could conclude there would be no detriment without a projected site plan. Kristine Bunch (402 4th Terrace) requested a traffic study and accused the board of "crowdfunding" and of prioritizing its own interests over residents'.

Mayor Boley cited City Code 120.040 (Rules of Order), telling a speaker her remarks were improper and asking her to leave after the comments became personal and boisterous. The board moved forward with the matter after the public comment period.

Alderman Marv Atkins moved to approve Bill No. 3072-25; Alderman Dan Hartman seconded. On roll call, Alderman Atkins, Alderman Stone, Alderman Kobylski and Alderman Wilson voted yes; Alderman Hartman abstained and Alderman Russell was absent. Mayor Boley declared the ordinance approved.

The ordinance was approved on second reading; the record does not include a detailed project plan or a traffic study requirement. Residents in the meeting urged the board to require a traffic study and to reconsider density and home size in future approvals. The next procedural step is implementation of the approved zoning change as prescribed by city code and any follow-up administrative steps required for development applications.