I think there is a definite value in what the Housing Authority is doing and I think the North Point development is an excellent model and a certain enhancement to the community. However for the following reasons outlined below I am in support of the the rezoning request submitted by Reva Stover and the neighborhood association.

1) With its rolling hills and large acre lots this neighborhood has a very unique character and quality about it that sets it apart from most all other neighborhoods in Fort Smith. I believe it is our duty as a planning commission to protect the integrity of the existing neighborhoods in our city and it is my opinion that a higher density housing development is not a good fit for this area. Furthermore with the surrounding acreage I believe this will be a catalyst for additional low income, higher density developments in the very near future, further consuming the greenspace that gives this neighborhood its character.

2) Raw land inside the city limits is a very rare commodity. Rather than consuming what we have left with lower income housing I would much prefer to see the HA resurrect blighted areas just as they did with the North Pointe development. This was a great win-win for our community as the HA was able to kill two birds with one stone by rehabbing a run down area and providing much needed lower income housing simultaneously.

3) Finally I believe the school system needs to provide input regarding the potential overcrowding of the nearby elementary school (Morrison).  My concern is that the development which the HA has planned will add numerous new families to the area and it is my understanding that Morrison has already reached its capacity. I don’t know this to be certain but it would be helpful information to have before making our decision.
Everyone sees things a little differently and I respect each of your decisions regardless of the outcome.