By: Diane Benjamin

I have been contacted by numerous residents of Normal regarding this development. The property was originally zoned for single-family use but was abruptly rezoned for multi-family housing in the heart of a single-family neighborhood.

Area residents fear this will disrupt their tranquil lifestyle, increasing traffic and crime. Normal’s leadership appears unresponsive to these concerns and unwilling to engage. The same officials continue to govern Normal, and the recently re-elected policymakers remain indifferent.

One resident emailed planner Mercy Davison asking her to arrange a meeting for residents and the developer. This was her response:

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Obviously the developer doesn’t care what citizens think. Since Chris Koos appointed every member of the Planning Commission.

Anyone think these people represent citizens?

Normal has other approved development projects that are progressive slowly. Instead of asking those developers why, Normal wants to destroy a single family neighborhood.

Many of the people opposed are the same ones who worked to stop alcohol sales in One Normal Plaza. They succeeded because the person requesting a liquor license found another location.

It is sad the same people have to fight their government again to prevent the destruction of their neighborhood.

May 8th is the next Planning Commission hearing. If you oppose this project, show up. https://www.normalil.gov/401/Planning-Commission