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Starkville Aldermen Approve Condo Development

An aerial view reveals the area designated for the new condo development in Starkville, located close to existing homes.

News Summary

The Starkville Board of Aldermen voted 5-2 to approve a variance for the construction of condominiums near Hancock Circle, prompting a range of reactions from the community. Supporters argue the condos will improve local land use while opponents express concerns over increased noise and disruption. The project will feature eight condos and a mixed-use building, but residents are wary about the proximity to existing homes and potential disturbances from tenants.

Starkville Aldermen Greenlight Condo Development Amid Mixed Reactions

In a recent meeting, Starkville’s Board of Aldermen approved a variance by a 5-2 vote that paves the way for the construction of condominiums in closer proximity to homes around Hancock Circle. This decision has stirred a mix of excitement and concern among residents as the city moves forward with plans to develop the property located just behind some familiar spots: the Quality Inn and Burger King.

The New Condos: Are They a Blessing or a Curse?

Supporters of the variance see this project as a positive change, arguing that developing these condos is a much better use for the land than its current state. They believe that the new buildings might actually help shield existing homes from the noises associated with the busy highway and the nearby hotel. The city’s codes typically necessitate a 50-foot setback from residential properties, but this recent approval allows condos to be built just 20 feet from the homes on Hancock Circle. This raises eyebrows, especially from residents who enjoy the quiet of suburban living.

Project Plans and Concerns

As it stands, developers Mark Shapley and Jason Ishee plan to construct eight condos accompanied by a parking lot that will sit only five feet from their southern neighbors’ properties. Additionally, the development will include a small mixed-use building, which could feature retail or office space on the ground floor, with apartments above. This mixture of housing and commercial space certainly offers a new twist for the Starkville community.

Many neighbors, however, aren’t buying into the excitement. They voiced their concerns about potential disruptions from future tenants, particularly given their previous experiences with guests at the nearby hotel. Reports from Police Chief Mark Ballard highlighted a concerning volume of calls relating to disturbances at the Quality Inn, further fueling worries that the new condos might attract similar challenges. Prior to the meeting, City Planner Daniel Havelin was already in receipt of two requests for information and one call expressing opposition to the proposed variance, signaling that the issues aren’t just black and white for residents.

Local Voices – A Range of Opinions

One resident, Sandra Edmonds, expressed her frustration regarding the close proximity of the condos, pointing out that the same building regulations wouldn’t apply to her if she attempted to build a new home there. It’s evident that many feel the decision showcases a double standard in procedure. The design of the property is indeed unusual, stretching eastward from South Montgomery Street in a staggered fashion. If the layout were flipped to accommodate the mandated setback, it could risk losing as many as four to six units and disrupt the intended buffer between condominiums and the parking lot.

As for the condo project’s future, developer Shapley reassured the board that the units will be sold rather than rented, with contracts explicitly prohibiting renters. Additionally, this development won’t have any patios or walkways in the rear; it will feature just windows and a flat wall, ensuring a degree of privacy for the neighboring homes. An added six-foot fence and landscaping will also help to maintain a sense of separation between the new condos and existing houses, though it’s unclear if this will truly soften the impact for residents feeling uneasy about their new, closer neighbors.

What’s Next for Starkville?

Before construction can commence, certain building permits will be required. While the aldermen’s approval is a crucial step forward, the project will still need to comply with local building codes. Mayor Lynn Spruill did mention that the project is now clear to proceed with the variance in mind, leaving many residents wondering how much more discussion and negotiation might still be necessary between developers and the community.

As Starkville marches ahead with its urban developments, the community buzz continues. It remains to be seen how this new condo project will ultimately impact the loved Hancock Circle and whether residents can find common ground with developers moving forward. Stay tuned for more updates as we follow this unfolding story in our vibrant Starkville community.