D-Day for Richmond homeowners?

Zoning board to discuss variances on Kuhn Rd. Subdivision known as Prairie Ridge

 

by Greg Cryns

 

June 17, 2005

 

There will be a very important zoning board meeting on Monday, June 6^th regarding the Prairie Hill subdivision. Originally scheduled for May 16^th the meeting was postponed at the last minute. No reason was given for the postponement. Many homeowners near the proposed development showed up to listen to the zoning board proceedings and to voice their opinions.

 

This subdivision, formerly known as the The Classics and also The Conservancy lies between Hill Rd. on the north side to Kuhn Road on the south side andeast of Route 12 . It contains approximately 220 acres. The annexation agreement passed for the first time in 199 allows up to 507 homes. The most recent version for the development is asking for almost 400 homes.

Current proposal is asking for lot sizes comparable to those found in Genoa City.

 

According to information sent out by the Village of Richmond to homeowners in the area, Marcamp Investments, LLC, is the owner of record of the property and petitioner, Tamarack Development LLC is the developer of the property.

 

There is currently a lawsuit concerning past agreements made with the village during Kevin Brusek’s tenure.

 

This development would have a long term effect on the village, its infrastructure, village infrastructre and especially the schools. Homes the size and cost that has been suggested would attract a younger buyer. This could significantly impact the school system and potentially raise taxes and affect the value of homes throughout the entire area.

 

Resident Pat Frazier lives next to the proposed Prairie Ridge development. “The school system simply cannot handle a lot more children,” said Frazier. “Our property taxes will increase dramatically. Route 12 is already backed up. The economy is getting worse. There is a lot of predatory lending going on out there. Chances are you will see a lot of foreclosures in the future. Starter homes are not good for my property value.”

 

People are encouraged to come to the zoning board meeting at 7:30 on Monday, June 6^th at Richmond Village Hall.