To the Editor:

A group of more than 70 concerned Madison citizens signed a petition asking city government to postpone making any additional commitments or changes relating to the proposed senior housing project with Parallel Housing in the tract of property on College Drive.  The petition was presented to Mayor Gilbert, members of City Council, Downtown Development Authority and City Planner in advance of the council meeting scheduled for May 14.
Parallel Housing held an open house with approximately 75 citizens. Although Parallel responded to four hours of questions it was clear that the community has not yet been convinced that the project has been properly discussed, reviewed and explained and that too many points are still changing. As an example, at the open house it was mentioned that the age for “seniors” was just reduced from 62 to 55. What impact does that have? Parallel is to be commended for meeting with the community and openly discussing their project. They heard community concerns and are willing to further discuss plans and possibly even revise their plans. It is critical that city government do the same. The council meeting to handle the rezoning request is scheduled for May 24 and zoning changes could be approved quickly. Remember that Parallel needs the City to rezone the property and pass a Resolution of Support not later than June 1. A decision of this scope and impact deserves to NOT be made in haste.

Flynn Clyburn
Madison
Hand-delivered

Editor’s note: The Planning Commission meeting to handle the rezoning request is scheduled for May 24.

Printed in the May 17, 2012 edition.