Troy, Missouri Development News

Rezoning Request for Multi-Family Development Faces Strong Resident Opposition Amidst Infrastructure and Historic Character Concerns

The City Council opened public hearings for several items. Item A, PZ26060026, involves DC3 Properties LLC requesting rezoning for properties at 340 Keer Street and 4B Captain Grey Street from R2 single-family residential to RS3 multiple-family residential. This application was previously postponed. During the public comment, residents expressed concerns about increased density, destruction of the historic community character, and inadequate infrastructure to support multi-family housing. Concerns were raised about the origin of the developer and builder, with suggestions to build elsewhere. Another resident, Tama Morris, questioned the process and noted that the Planning and Zoning Commission had denied the application 0-6. She urged the board to direct the building official to evaluate a natural watercourse buffer feature. Several other residents voiced opposition, citing concerns about infrastructure, heritage, and the impact on their neighborhoods. The board discussed the process of reviewing plans and the possibility of directing the building official to evaluate the feature. There was also discussion about the previous denial by the Planning and Zoning board and whether the current board should follow suit. The board acknowledged the concerns about infrastructure, including sewer capacity and potential flooding. The applicant, DC3 Properties LLC, had requested a delay to change their plan before it was presented to the council. The discussion highlighted the importance of ensuring that any future plans consider existing environmental features and infrastructure limitations. It was noted that the Planning and Zoning Commission had voted against the application, and some council members expressed a desire for the current board to do the same. The discussion also touched upon the zoning changes and how they typically increase density. The city administrator confirmed that emails and information regarding the watercourse feature had been given to the building department for research, but a timeline for determination was uncertain. The board agreed to ensure the directive regarding the feature is recorded in the minutes. The discussion concluded with a general sentiment that the previous denial by the Planning and Zoning board was significant, and further review might be needed. Joseph Ajo spoke about the lack of environmental studies and the inadequacy of the aged infrastructure, urging the board to follow the Planning and Zoning Commission's recommendation. Another speaker presented a petition against extending the complex and questioned if decisions were based on money or the voice of the people, highlighting potential evictions due to the development. Several residents expressed concern that building large apartment complexes would destroy the historic nature of the area, deter potential residents, and negatively impact local businesses and schools. They urged the board to maintain the current mix of homes. A different speaker presented a proposal for an indoor sports warehouse facility, citing a need for such facilities and expressing excitement for community engagement. Finally, another speaker addressed the need for city workers to check lines on property and supported the proposed indoor sports facility.