Plan Commission Again Recommends Denial of Rezoning Along Hendelmeyer

The plan was modified, but the neighborhood was still vocal in opposition to a proposed rezoning of lots along Hendelmeyer Avenue during a public hearing before the Effingham City Plan Commission. The Commission voted 3-1-1 to recommend the City Council deny the rezoning.

Residents of both Woodland Heights Subdivision and nearby Slate Creek Subdivision turned out to oppose the rezoning that would make way for development of the property along the south side of Hendelmeyer into multi-family housing. The proposed developers, Keith and Jill Hartman, said the structures would be high-end and high-quality, but neighbors voiced concerns about increased traffic, the possibility of increased crime, and increased drainage problems if the development was approved.

Commissioners Brian Hayes, Mark Thies and Rob Macklin voted in favor of the motion to recommend denial of the rezoning while Commissioner Bob McGee voted against the motion to deny and Commissioner Jeff Bloemker abstained from the vote due to ties to the neighborhood.

In approving the motion to deny the rezoning, Commissioners also encouraged Hartman to consider his efforts and perhaps seek a rezoning of just a lot or two rather than the six-lot area sought for rezoning Tuesday night, as a way to show the neighbors what he has planned. Hartman had already modified his proposal from the previous month when he had sought rezoning all the way east to Woodland Heights.