Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Kudos To Oro Valley Council Denying Miller Ranch Rezoning

Turning the developer down for requesting yet another continuance for his Miller Ranch development, the council stood tall. Although the developer saw fit to not attend the meeting, the council voted to not approve his rezoning request by a 5-1 vote, with Mayor Loomis the sole vote and Mr. Gillaspie not in attendance.

Also absent was Planning Director Sarah More who endorsed the rezoning. Sitting in for Ms. More was Assistant Planning Director, Paul Popelka who gave a totally unbiased report on behalf of staff, inferring, however, that he thought the applicant was looking for higher density and higher building heights.

Five residents addressed the council, all asking that the rezoning not be approved.

Kudos to Mr. Popelka and the five council members. It was certainly refreshing to witness it on the streaming video.

8 comments:

Yoshibello said...

Thanks Art for all the assistance with postings of our neighbors concerns. I'm certainly happy that the council voted to oppose this wash rezoning. I was amazed as the Mayor continued support of the developer who showed arrogance and disregard for the citizens by not attending. I am hoping that this council will continue to listen to the citizens and not just the developers and their promises. Last nights council decision gave me hope for OV's development, but I believe we must all stay active and present our views on how we see our community. It is up to us! I want to personally thank our neighbors (Scott, Nancy, Barbara and Kevin) who took the time to come out and voice their concerns. With out you I think the outcome may have been a lot closer. Thank you for your care. cc

Nombe Watanabe said...

Amen Yoshi. Some good news!

- Nombe

artmarth said...

Besides accolades to those I mentioned in the posting, all the neighbors should be grateful to Ms. Chris Campabello who saw fit to publicize this issue, generate the interest of the neighbors, and having the wherewithal of getting advice from those individuals that were familiar with zoning codes.

For our part, we only tried to do what we feel needs be done. That is----understand we are one community, and we must concern ourselves with the problems of our neighbors, even when it's "not in our backyard."

The result of last night's vote should be a lesson for all of us. Banding together for a rightful conclusion can happen----as long as we continue to have a majority of the council that abide by our town codes.

artmarth said...

Nombre Watanabe--- Commenting with a pseudonym is quite common on this blog. However, using a pseudonym and a photo is somewhat unique.

Saying something nice is certainly welcome----but don't get nasty, as someone out there may recognize the photo!

In all due respect, "Yoshibello" looks much more attractive than you---although she may be a little more photogenic.

In any case, we appreciate your positive comment.

Nombe Watanabe said...

i like my photo.

- nombe

artmarth said...

OK Nombre--- What the hell. Anyway, beauty is in the eye of the beholder!

Just a suggestion, but you might want to do a little work on your hair!

Nombe Watanabe said...

my lack of hair is why i dont post my real photo.

i would scare away all the good bloggers!

Ferlin said...

Did the "Miller Ranch rezoning" get rid of Sarah More?