Stonecrest residents demand quality housing and retail in heated community meeting

The Stonecrest City Council meeting held on December 16, 2024, focused on a proposed mixed-use development that has sparked significant community interest and concern. The meeting featured discussions about the quality of housing and retail that residents expect in their neighborhoods, particularly in light of past experiences with substandard developments.

One of the primary topics was the installation of a privacy fence in the Shire neighborhood, which was increased from six to eight feet following resident feedback. This decision reflects the council's commitment to addressing community concerns about privacy and maintaining a buffer between different land uses.

Residents expressed strong opinions regarding the quality of housing being proposed by developers, particularly Ryan Homes. Longtime resident Faye Cofield voiced her frustration over the perceived decline in building standards, urging the council to ensure that new developments meet higher quality benchmarks. She emphasized the need for quality single-family homes and retail options that would enhance the community rather than contribute to a decline in property values.

Jeremy Scott, another resident, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of attracting quality commercial businesses to the area. He pointed out that the current proposal lacks letters of intent for commercial components, which raises concerns about the overall vision for the development. Scott also stressed the need for protections against institutional buyers that could undermine the goal of fostering a community of homeowners.

The developers responded to these concerns by assuring residents that they are committed to using high-quality materials and maintaining standards that reflect the community's desires. They acknowledged the importance of community feedback and expressed willingness to incorporate rental restrictions and other measures to ensure the development aligns with residents' expectations.

The meeting concluded with a call for accountability from both the developers and the city staff, emphasizing the role of local government in overseeing the development process to ensure compliance with approved plans. The council's commitment to transparency and community engagement was reiterated, as they aim to foster a development that meets the needs and aspirations of Stonecrest residents.

As the council moves forward with the proposal, the discussions from this meeting highlight the community's desire for quality development that respects the history and character of Stonecrest while addressing the challenges of growth and change.