HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-09-17 Kathy Gallentine
Charlene Way
From:Kathy Gallentine <kathy.gallentine@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, September 17, 2024 11:25 AM
To:Brian Whitlock; Liz Strader; Doug Taylor; John Overton; Anne Little Roberts; Luke
Cavener; Clerks Comment
Subject:Opposition to the development The District
External Sender - Please use caution with links or attachments.
Dear Meridian City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed development, The District. This project poses significant
concerns for our community, and I urge you to carefully consider the following reasons:
1. Traffic Congestion: The District would exacerbate the already severe traffic congestion on Ten Mile Road,
negatively impacting both local residents and commuters. The increased traffic would also lead to significant
backups on I-84, creating a safety hazard and inconvenience for drivers.
2. Inadequate Infrastructure: Our city's infrastructure, particularly the nearest park, Fuller Park, is already
stretched to its limits. The addition of hundreds of new residents would further strain our existing resources,
leading to overcrowding, limited access, and a decline in the quality of recreational facilities for our community.
3. Deviation from the Master Plan: The District would require exceptions to the city's Land Use Plan, which was
adopted by the City Council to guide Meridian's growth and development. Departing from the master plan
would undermine the community's values and goals, create overcrowding, and place an undue burden on
Meridian residents.
4. School Overcrowding: Our schools are already operating at or near capacity. The District would introduce a
significant number of new students, overwhelming our education system and compromising the quality of
education for all children. This development would directly conflict with Meridian's goal of providing a premier
education for its residents.
5. Water Resource Concerns: The proposed development would increase water consumption, placing a strain on
our limited water resources. Without adequate planning and investment in water conservation and
infrastructure, Meridian risks facing the same water scarcity issues experienced by California.
6. Lack of Community Representation: Tom Ahlquist, the developer behind The District, is not a Meridian resident
and does not share our community's values. His support for local elections does not justify his ability to impose
such a significant and potentially harmful project on our city.
I urge the City Council to reject The District development and prioritize the well-being of our existing residents. We need
to protect our quality of life, preserve our environment, and maintain the integrity of our community.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
Kathy Gallentine
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