A proposed luxury development that faced opposition from residents in 2022 is making a comeback, leading to a legal battle. The Metropolitan Development Commission's approval of a rezoning petition to construct apartments and townhomes at the current site of The Willows Event Center in the 6700 block of Westfield Boulevard has sparked a lawsuit. The Oxbow Estates Homeowners Association, Spirit Lake Co-owners Association, and concerned residents Thomas H. Durkin and Steve Yeager are seeking to have the decision overturned.
A Contentious Rezoning Proposal
The developers behind the controversial project, known as The Elements, are requesting to rezone 21.4 acres for a $61 million apartment and townhome development. The project received the MDC's approval in December, but it was delayed by a new public hearing requested by councilwoman Brienne Delaney. This move has prompted accusations that Delaney aims to undermine the development to fulfill a campaign promise.
Concerns and Compromises
The plaintiffs, including neighbor associations and residents, attempted to meet with the developers but were unsuccessful. With the clock ticking on the 30-day deadline to challenge the MDC's decision, they had no choice but to file a lawsuit to protect their legal claims. John Kautzman, attorney and spokesperson for the plaintiffs, expressed their concerns about the project's density, environmental impact, and pedestrian access.
Responding to these concerns, the development team made modifications to the project, including reducing the number of buildings and the overall height. However, neighbors argue that these changes still fail to address their concerns, particularly the inclusion of Spirit Lake in calculating the project's density.
A Promise to the Neighbors
Despite the ongoing court proceedings, a public hearing scheduled for February 5th is set to continue as planned. The project's chairman, J.C. Hart, expressed frustration with Councilwoman Delaney's decision to call for another hearing. Hart insists that they have met with Delaney twice to clarify the project's details and address concerns.
Delaney, on the other hand, explained that she is not against the project but is listening to her constituents. She highlights the importance of compromise and support from the many neighborhood groups that surround the development. Delaney remains committed to finding a solution that satisfies both sides.
In this ongoing battle between developers and residents, it remains to be seen whether the controversial luxury development will come to fruition or if the concerns of the community will prevail.
Original article by Alexandria Burris, IndyStar investigative reporter