Neighbors oppose rezoning for proposed multiunit project at 97 Center Drive; planners seek clarity on unit count and stormwater

Casey Pipes, attorney for the applicant Silverstone Enterprises, sought a rezoning of 97 Center Drive from single‑family R‑1 to multifamily R‑3, saying the request aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan and surrounding development patterns. Pipes said the submitted plan shows eight two‑story buildings representing eight units with four bedrooms per unit, for a total of 32 bedrooms, and said the applicant is willing to accept a voluntary use restriction on the number of bedrooms.

“...we're agreeable with all the staff comments and recommendations,” Pipes said, adding that the site matches the future‑land‑use designation for mixed‑density residential.

Multiple residents in the adjoining neighborhoods disputed the applicant’s outreach and data. Roger Woods said he lives about half a block away and that community meetings were inadequately publicized; he challenged the applicant’s assertion about rising university freshman enrollment and urged the commission to deny the request rather than postpone it. Mary Ann Trevato and other neighbors described ongoing noise, litter and nuisance behavior from nearby student housing and said another R‑3 rezoning would further change the neighborhood’s character.

Residents also pressed technical questions: whether the project is 8 units (32 bedrooms) or 16 units (64 bedrooms), whether parking and handicapped spaces are adequate, and what stormwater retention and erosion controls would be required. A city stormwater staffer confirmed detention would be required and would be reviewed during the development‑permit phase.

Commissioners noted confusion in the application materials and the public comments. The applicant signaled willingness to accept a voluntary restriction on the number of bedrooms and to meet with neighbors; commissioners moved to hold the item over to allow additional neighborhood outreach and clearer documentation before a planning commission decision.