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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-11-04 Don Applegarth Charlene Way From:Don Applegarth <d.applegarth@icloud.com> Sent:Thursday, November 4, 2021 6:04 PM To:City Clerk; Chris Johnson Subject:Pera Place Subdivision H-2021-0056: Meridian Citizen Comments External Sender - Please use caution with links or attachments. Re: Pera Place Subdivision H-2021-0056: For Annexation and Zoning of 10 acres of land with a request for the R-8 zoning district, a Rezone of 6.84 acres of land from the R-4 zoning district to the R-8 zoning district, and a Preliminary Plat consisting of 65 single-family detached building lots and 7 common lots on 16.63 acres of land, located at 4600 W. Daphne St., 4546 W. Daphne St., and Parcel S0427325702, near the northeast corner of N. Black Cat Rd. and W. McMillan Rd. Dear Planning and Zoning Commission Members: I have a residence directly across N Black Cat Rd and the current small forest of mature large stand trees. I am extremely concerned about any actions to cut down the several acres of such large trees in a forest such as the one in the specific track of land that is under consideration for development. Considering Boise is after all “The City of Trees” by definition, it is critical to preserve as many of the mature, tall forested areas within the Meridian and Boise areas as is possible. First off, it goes without saying that the current worldwide concern for our forests are due to climate change. It is a particular focal point of our current government. Now is certainly not the time to be cutting down such beatiful tall forested areas such as this. While it may be small in comparison to what is being cut down in the Brazilian rain forests, for comparison, it is no less important. These large trees are not easily replaceable and the carbon offset is not feasible in short term. This could take on national attention in short order if this moves forward in any way that involves cutting down these trees. Second, I would urge the Council to consider the commercial benefit as well. It would be far better to have this turned into a park that would drive up home values and also tax revenues in the long run. It does not make sense for the value of a few lots to consider loosing this appealing commercial and public feature and the value to homeowners as a park and space for families. Third, there is considerable wildlife in this area. I have spotting families of Red Tailed Hawks, Perigrin Falcons, quail, pheasant, doves and assorted small mammals including squirrels, etc. The loss of habitat should be considered for conservation issues. Mature growth forest in any location in and around Boise should be preserved. Fourth, the consideration of sound barrier performance of the forested area should be considered, Far better to have that area that large tall concrete walls. This also will make a difference in home values in this future development. Last, even though I live across Black Cat, this is a wonderful feature and will not only impact our home value if this resource is removed, but it also is a pleasant part of our back yard. I would believe everyone along Black Cat Road would feel the same— SAVE THE TREES!! I would reiterate that it is in the councils preference to create a park for the above reasons rather than be the elected officials who are damaging tall-growth-mature forest areas such as this. I urge all consideration towards preservation. Thank you, Mr & Mrs. Don Applegarth 5272 N Maplestone Ave Meriidian, ID. 83646 1 (Across from Black Cat and this proposed development) 2