I have been doing some research on the subject of rezoning. One point that was addressed in some of the material I have read was the need for a list of "core concerns" when entering negotiations like these. This is simply a list of requirments you want to impose upon the project in order to make the development acceptable. This list helps you clarify your position and enables you to make a stronger case when debating the issue.

After attending the hearing at City Hall a few weeks ago, I came up with a list of core concerns regarding the propsed Devonshire commercial development based on comments either overheard or on record. I am posting them here for consideration and comment from any and all homeowners. I apologize for the last minute posting, but I just got the idea for the list this morning:

1. Hickory Hills HOA would like to approve the types of business and architecture to be allowed in proposed development. We feel this is necessary to insure our safety and maintain the character of our subdivision.

2. Hickory Hills homeowners are unwilling to accept a business ingress or egress on Devonshire road. We feel this requirement is necessary in order to prevent an unwanted increase in motor traffic. Again, the issue here is one of safety and neighborhood character.

3. The loss of the bricked subdivision entranceway or vegetation within the band of residential zoning on either side of Devonshire would be unacceptable. This is only an issure of preserving the character of the neighborhood, but one which many residents expressed strong concern during the meeting.

I am also attempting to contact an organization called Community & Environmental Defense Services (CEDS). It is a network of attorneys, planners, environmental scientists, traffic engineers, political strategists, and fundraisers who are dedicated to protecting communities and the environment from bad zoning decisions and developments. Unfortunately, the representative I am trying to contact is out of the office until Thursday of this week. Their website is www.ceds.org.

I believe very strongly that we can fight this regardless of the opinion of our HOA Board. Like many others, I have been disappointed in their communication regarding this issue, but I also realize that the fault is equally mine. By not attending the regular HOA meetings, I have failed to uphold by end of the bargain. My pledge here is to make certain that changes and I ask that all who read this do the same. Above all, please attend the HOA meeting Tuesday, July 29 at 6:15 in the Hickory Hills Clubhouse. In order to receive adequate representation, we must make voice our opinions.

Please let me know what you think of the list of concerns I have presented in this post. 

I wish I could make it tonight. 

You have expressed many of my concerns.  I'm glad to know that I am not the only person who feels that we should have a say in what goes in at the entrance of our community.

The July 29th Meeting of HOA with reps of developer Hayes and the Mt Juliet City Planner (as well as a representative on the MJ Planning Commission) was very informative and helpful.  It is indeed regretable that it was so poorly attended by HH residents.

It remains clear that developer Hayes would/should win a legal action if he were to choose that remedy (based upon precedent and legal opinion of Mt Juliet legal staff).  It will benefit all HH residents to remain active in the mediation process with Mr. Hayes. Hayes appears interested and open to compromise.

Many HH residents in attendance at the 07-29-08 meeting had  little interest in the well stated agenda, to discuss the zoning change, but rather chose to express opinions regarding what the final development might speculatively present.  The 07/29 meeting had nothing to do with the design of any development of this acreage, only the rezoning matter.  Mt Juliet City planner and officials have done a commendable job in gaining concessions from Hayes.  "Damage control" is paramount in limiting the nature of the rezoning.  Let us all be vigilant and watchful throughout this re-zoning matter at hand and continue that same attention when we get to the "design" phase of any development (which is likely to be the more important feature of this controversial hot-button)

Our continued attention to this will serve our best interests over the course of the re-zoning and design of this project.  It is only a matter of time; the change is inevitable and how we handle that change will speak volumes for this fine MJ neighborhood.  I look forward to the next meeting with HOA and City MJ.

A 12 year neighbor.