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Session 1679, Minutes September 30, 1996 Page 7 Ms. Cora Peterson, 531 N. Central, said members of her family have lived in University City for many years, and seven years ago she found her dream house in this neighborhood. Now she felt the residential atmosphere would change with the erection of two apartment buildings. She said no one in the area was aware of the master plan for this neighborhood and although residents do not oppose new development, it should be more in keeping with what is already there. She felt the height of the proposed buildings was obscene and would impact the neighborhood negatively. She also resented that the developer and architect did not talk with the residents about their plans. Responding to Mr. Wagner, Ms. Peterson said neighbors were not able to get any information from the developer or architect. Mr. Jay Sushelsky, 7334 Westmoreland, said the proposed project will improve property values in the immediate area and surrounding neighborhood. It's forward looking and in keeping with the develop- ment trend in this area, and must happen here if the City's tax base is to grow and housing become more sophisticated. He felt the plans were excellent and will benefit the City in many ways. Ms. Lynn Wakefield, 514 Donne, said she is currently investing $20,000 in her home and is distressed that this. project will overshadow her house and back yard, greatly reducing her privacy. She was also concerned about additional traffic and parking on North and South. She saw no economic advantage to the City by adding apartment or office space in the area as opposed to single family housing that was al- ready there and in good condition. She pointed out that more density would require more City services. Ms. Barbara Fraser, 581 Stratford, said University City needed to encourage new development, and the proposed project would be very good for the City. She said developer Paul Londe is talented, success- ful, creative, and a long time resident who has the City's best interests at heart. As a former School Board member, she pointed out the tax benefits of this project, adding that those who can afford to rent these apartments will also spend a great deal of money here. She said businesses, excitement and vitality were what the City needs and this project helps provide that. Mr. David M. Heimos, 7700 Amherst, said he supported this project, adding that the plan is esthetically pleasing, and it will add vitality to this area. He said it will benefit University City and also take advantage of Clayton's benefits. Mr. Jay Brandt, 603 Westgate, said he has been a long time resident and business owner in University City, and when he expressed interest in this project, both the developer and architect invited him to come see the plans, which he found exciting. He believed the development would benefit the community as a whole, and felt it was designed to enhance its neighborhood. He also felt the developer had listened to the concerns of the community and addressed them by scaling down the size of the buildings. He suggested that interested residents contact the architect and look at the plans which he felt they would find more in keeping with the neighborhhood than the initial project. Ms. Linda Murphy, 7551 Washington, suggested that those speaking for this plan are not directly im- pacted by it, Her concerns were noise pollution and possible lack of maintenance if renters cannot be found who will pay $2,000 a month. She said most residents live here because of the diversity and her