In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around a proposed development project in Oklahoma City that aims to rezone a parcel of land from 29 smaller lots to 12 larger lots, each exceeding two acres. This change comes after previous concerns regarding the density of the development and its compliance with city planning standards.
Commissioner Privet, representing the area, expressed cautious support for the new proposal, emphasizing the importance of adequate infrastructure, particularly regarding water and sewer services. He noted that the absence of these services makes the two-acre minimum lot size more appropriate.
Residents voiced significant concerns about the potential impact of the development on local flooding, traffic, and the environment. Kathy Henderson, a long-time resident, highlighted flooding issues on the property and raised questions about how water runoff would be managed, fearing it could exacerbate existing problems for neighboring properties. Diane Divini echoed these concerns, emphasizing the vulnerability of the local aquifer and the potential for increased traffic on already congested roads.
The developer responded to these concerns by assuring that the project would adhere to city regulations regarding stormwater management and that the existing pond on the property would remain, serving as a natural drainage feature. They also indicated that the development would not significantly increase traffic, estimating only 24 additional vehicles on local roads.
Despite the developer's reassurances, the community remains divided, with a petition from local residents indicating that 19 out of 26 neighbors oppose the project. The meeting concluded with a recognition of the need for further discussions and potential adjustments to the development plan to address the community's concerns adequately.