Dear Councilmembers,
As an individual and active member of a neighborhood association in the 29th district, I am writing to express my concern regarding Substitute Ordinance No. BL2011-935 that has not followed the proper channel of due process from my observation for property 2631 Smith Springs Road.
I was called regarding this issue and attended and helped speak on behalf of residents at the Metro Planning Commission meeting 7/28/11 where 75 signatures were presented as well as the last council meeting 8/2/11. Those whom contacted me as a candidate at that time asked me to help express concerns about the proposed zoning change which they felt was not in conformance with what had been communicated to them when the property next to the one in question tonight was passed back in 2008. There was an agreement that no further commercial, sp or any other zoning other than residential would go beyond the wall at the Barber shop. There has been so much outcry and confusion that many of the neighbors have expressed their concern of the lack of communication with regard to the process which was shortened in terms of the timeframe. They don't feel there was ample opportunity to iron out any concerns and/or issues expressed by many in the neighborhood. This has resulted in heightened frustration and anger on the part of residents who are most impacted.
The community meeting which was held August 11 after the 2nd reading/public hearing before metro council, was quite heated and there was overwhelming opposition expressed by a clear majority show of hands and the sometimes loud exchange of words from neighbors who were simply frustrated and seemingly very upset that they were not given fair opportunity to make their voices heard before each of you. Many expressed that they felt this has been rushed and proper opportunity for them to learn and to provide any input has been circumvented.
I would like to ask that no more amendments be considered at this point and that the bill before you tonight be disapproved. The reason for this request is that due process and communications were not followed appropriately resulting in neighbors expressing at the community meeting that they all were not notified and felt it was not inclusive of all neighbors in the Smith Springs Road area as well as others who have an interest who live in surrounding areas of District 29.
I want to thank each of you for serving all of us as citizens. The work you have done to make our neighborhoods and city better is so appreciated and your dedicated and tireless service will continue to shape our city to be the best that it can be for present and future generations.
Thank you,
Karen Y. Johnson
Citizen
District 29
Metro Nashville/Davidson County
977-6721
