Editor,
Yet another irresponsible development is under consideration on the west side of Westfield.
The community has given emotional pleas to city leaders to stop burdening our children and teachers with rampant growth that is resulting in overcrowded classrooms and busses. They need time to catch up. This alone should be enough to stop! But, obviously it’s not.
Perhaps the fact that 1,500 lots are already available to build upon on the west side right now and there are seven neighborhoods under construction within 2 miles of this proposed development is enough to stop. Unbelievably, it’s not!
So, the citizens in the southwest corridor have also analyzed this development’s financial impact on the city. The result: It doesn’t meet the school or infrastructure tax needs, will further strain public safety, doesn’t fill a market need and squanders a potential $20 million more in assessed value that would be present if a different housing mix was built. This is three strikes, and this needs to be out!
Citizens continue to speak loudly that they are tired of irresponsible development in this city. Any city councilor supporting this development at 7 p.m. March 12 at city hall is sending a loud message that they don’t represent your voice. As a result, your children, your property values and your taxes are being negatively impacted.
Just as students across the nation are demanding safety at our schools, we must demand that city leaders stop irresponsible development in our city. We need all Westfield citizens to join the conversation on the Facebook page, “Stop Irresponsible Development in Westfield.” Because enough is enough, and our families are worth it!
Kristen Burkman and Suzy DuBois, Westfield
