Residents of the historic Pucker Street district voiced their concerns at a recent government meeting regarding the potential leasing of a local parking lot to Conlin Construction for an apartment project. Community members, including Jeanne and Wendy Ludeman, expressed their support for the renovation of a nearby church into apartments but highlighted the need for better communication about the implications of the parking lot's conversion.

Jeanne emphasized the pride residents take in their neighborhood, which has recently transitioned from a multi-family to a single-family residential zone. She urged local officials to engage with the community to discuss potential regulations for the parking lot, suggesting that lease agreements could include considerations for neighborhood impacts.

Wendy, a new homeowner in the area, raised concerns about safety and property values, particularly with increased traffic from a public parking lot. She noted that the current use of the lot has allowed for a safe environment for children, and she advocated for transforming the space into a green area rather than a parking facility.

In response to the residents' concerns, city officials acknowledged the need for further discussion and indicated that staff would reach out to the community and the property owners to explore possible conditions that could be included in the lease agreement for the parking lot, which is owned by Farmer State Bank. The meeting underscored the importance of community engagement in local development projects and the need for balancing growth with neighborhood preservation.