2/10/19 Emergency Fairmount Neighborhood Association Meeting at St. John’s Church, 6:00 pm

Board Members in attendance: Sara Karashin, Bob Fain, Deanna Stuart, Leah Suasnovar, Steve Voltman, and Fred Harper

Call to order

After a brief introduction the representatives of NuRock Developers gave a quick summary of their proposed development which would be located on Hemphill.  They have reduced the number of apartments from 110 units to 73 and have designated 111 parking places. They want to reiterate they will continue to work with the local community in regards to conceptual plans. They are “sold” on our area for building and incorporating affordable housing.

Sara Karashin, FNA President read a selection of a letter from Ms. Delgado, principal at Daggett Montessori, the letter cites several concerns with the development including traffic, parking, and safety of students. The Daggett campus, which is located near the proposed site is not in support of the project at this time.

Sara Karashin explained to the membership in attendance that we are present today not to continue to ask questions about the project, but discuss if we are supporting or opposing the project, and asked those who wished to stand and state their reasons for or against prior to motioning for a vote.

Summary of points in support of this project:

• Affordability, as rent would be based on income
• Local workforce housing

Summary of points opposing this project:

• Traffic around and near school
• Influx of residents affecting the available parking for school
• The size and scale overwhelm the land available
• Lack of parking
• Concern about property management issues
• Not in favor of supporting rezoning this area to multifamily
• Insufficient parking, where will visitors park?
• Setbacks (in the architectural design)
• Increased congestion in the area
• Don’t feel this is the right project for this spot
• This four story building might set a precedent for future developments along Hemphill, right now all other structures are two stories, with the exception of Cassata High School which is three stories.

A motion was made to end discussion, which was seconded and passed unanimously.  A second motion was made to write a letter of opposition to the proposed development by NuRock Companies who are looking to build a multi-family affordable housing development on Hemphill between Jessamine and W. Powell Ave.  The motion is seconded, and passed with only one dissenting vote.

Meeting adjourned.

Minutes submitted by Leah Suasnovar, 2/10/2019.