The Enquirer’s Paul McKibben reports that residents of an upscale Mason subdivision are trying to block a proposed retail development that would begin with a 4,000-square-foot convenience store with gas pumps.
The convenience store would be the project’s first phase, followed by a 15,000-square-foot retail center second phase by developer Bunnell Hill Development Co. Inc. at the northwest corner of Bethany and Mason-Montgomery roads.
McKibben spoke with residents, the developer and city officials about objections to the project.
Residents’ main concerns include traffic, noise, light, odors and visual ones, according to Mayor Don Prince.
“They’re concerned about their property values and everybody is when something like this goes in next to them,” he said. “I had that happen to my house. I have a commercial building behind my lot.”
Michelle McNally’s home borders the proposed gas station. She wants council to deny the request.
“There are inherent hazards and disturbances associated with putting a gas station this close to family residences,” she said. “At this time, I have not been shown adequate evidence that these hazards and disturbances can be mitigated.”
Prince said the developer wants to meet the neighborhood’s needs. He said the developer is willing to put in whatever level of screening that is required to make the development acceptable.
Joe Kramer, executive vice president with Henkle Schueler & Associates, real estate brokers on the project, said there are substantial screening and trees already there and they’ve been talking to the city about the possible need for some additional screening. Bunnell Hill is a Henkle Schueler company.
Mason City Council conducted a lengthy hearing about the development on March 28 that will continue this evening. Council could vote on the project at tonight’s meeting.
Posted in: Board of Trustees, Community, News |
Tags: Tags: bunnell hill development co. inc., city council, commercial, crooked tree subdivision, gas station, mason, mayor don prince, residents, zoning
