During a recent government meeting, community members expressed significant concerns regarding a proposed development project in Lee County, which seeks to increase the number of homes from an already approved 788 to 1,099. Residents questioned the necessity of this increase, emphasizing that the existing approval should suffice.
Evelyn Klingensmith, a long-time resident, highlighted issues related to density and infrastructure, arguing that the area lacks sufficient land to support the proposed number of homes with adequate sewer and water services. She urged officials to reconsider the density of the project, suggesting that it could be reduced to avoid overcrowding.
William Fields, another local resident, voiced his frustration over the perceived lack of community support for the development, stating that only two groups appeared to favor it—the buyer and the seller. He expressed skepticism about the transparency of the process, questioning whether the developers had already secured approval for the increased density despite community opposition.
Concerns about traffic safety were also raised, particularly regarding the construction entrance from Duke Highway. Residents described hazardous driving conditions, citing high speeds and frequent reckless driving in the area, which could be exacerbated by the proposed development.
Overall, the meeting underscored a strong community sentiment against the proposed increase in housing density, with residents calling for more thoughtful planning that considers the impact on local infrastructure and quality of life.