Public Comments

Homeowners on Westland Bay Drive
37922

6-A-24-UR
Homeowners on Westland Bay Drive (37922), May 30, 2024 at 6:53 AM

The proposed driveway is right next to Westland Bay Drive. Even now it is not easy to turn onto Westland, and with cars and SUVs parked on the proposed driveway, the view of the oncoming, speeding traffic will be seriously jeopardized and will create a ripe situation for accidents.
Approving this project will cause economic harm to homeowners on Westland Bay. Most people don't wish to buy a single-family home on a street that also has duplexes, so selling a house will be near impossible. Even cutting the trees that edge that property next to Westland Bay (where the proposed driveway is located) will reduce the economic value of all the homes on our street.
We very much hope the Planning Commission will deny the request based on these serious safety and economic concerns.
If however the MPC disregards these valid concerns and approves the application, please at least require that the plan is turned around so that the driveway is not next to Westland Bay but on the opposite side where the previous driveway was located, to avoid the serious safety issues. Please also require that the trees along our road not be cut, to somewhat mitigate the economic concerns of the homeowners on the street.

View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20240530065326.pdf

May 30, 2024
at 6:53 AM

Cliff
37922

6-B-24-UR
Cliff (37922), May 31, 2024 at 10:23 PM

I was just made aware of the potential development of an EZ Stop Market on Concord Road at Second Drive. As a property owner in the Concord historic district, I feel I must express my concerns over this project. It is completely inappropriate for this location. Knox County has very few historic areas and Concord is important to our culture and our history. Placing this establishment next to the historic Masonic Lodge, and cemetery will disrupt the integrity of this historic district. It appears the planned project is too large for a residential area. It would be better placed on a larger road in a commercial zone. Although there are now several commercial facilities on Concord Road, they are not gas stations, supermarkets, or retail stores. The proposed market would bring unnecessary traffic into a neighborhood. It will also increase light and noise pollution for a residential area that is known for its walkable streets, churches and community. The historic overlay in Concord was created to protect an important part of Knox County history. Adding this market would harm the integrity of this community.

May 31, 2024
at 10:23 PM

Wayne
37922

6-A-24-UR
Wayne (37922), June 3, 2024 at 1:45 AM

For more than 80 years residents in the immediate vicinity have fostered and developed single family residences. Sector Plans reflected community desires to maintain the single family heritage of this neighborhood. During rezoning we requested single family residential be maintained. Now, duplexes are being allowed in this zone, but that doesn't account for the character and history of this neighborhood. Allowing duplexes on this property establishes an unwanted and devaluing standard for this area of Westland Drive that should not be allowed. The Planning process should accomodate the historical legacy of this area, as Planning is the last bastion available to preserve the single family residential character of this neighborhood. The Immediate neighbors oppose such a degradation of development and request the single family character of our neighborhood be maintained.

June 3, 2024
at 1:45 AM

William C & Deborah J
37922

6-A-24-UR
William C & Deborah J (37922), June 6, 2024 at 6:31 PM

See attached letter expressing our concerns regarding this proposed development. Hoping the commissioners will take these into consideration when the time comes to vote on this measure. William C. & Deborah J. Hall
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20240606183144.pdf

June 6, 2024
at 6:31 PM

Chris
37922

6-A-24-UR
Chris (37922), June 6, 2024 at 9:49 PM

We live on Westland Bay Drive, the private road immediately west of the proposed Dream Subdivision; and we would like to express two general concerns with the concept plan.
First, as planned, the separation between Westland Bay Drive (serving 9 residences) and the proposed 25' access easement (serving 5 dwelling units) appears inadequate. For safety purposes, rather than abandoning the existing driveway on the eastern side of the proposed subdivision, it should be utilized as the shared driveway for all 5 of the units in the new subdivision.
Second, to help discourage use of our private road as access and parking for the proposed subdivision, a fence or other permanent barrier should be required along the entire boundary of the proposed Lots 1, 2 and 3 with Westland Bay Drive.

June 6, 2024
at 9:49 PM

Judy
37922

6-B-24-UR
Judy (37922), June 7, 2024 at 10:01 AM

I have been a Concord resident for 30 years and I have seen the growth of the area and have dealt with all the traffic and congestion as the infrastructure has struggled to meet the growth. In my opinion, there is no historic charm on Concord Road. Unless you refer to the old, dilapidated building at the corner of Concord and Lake Ridge Dr. that has a food truck operating next to it. To me, it is an eyesore. In all my years living here, I have wished that site would be a functioning gas station/convenience store.
I support EZ Stop opening a gas station with a convenience store and restaurant at the proposed site, which is needed in this area. In addition, I'm glad to see a local business operating here instead of some chain from out of state. My children's activities take me all over the local area and I often stop at EZ Stop locations. Recently, their activities took me to a new EZ Stop at 2125 Morganton Road in Maryville. This is the nicest facility that I have ever had the pleasure to visit, and it was very family friendly. I believe the same layout would be beneficial to the residents of Concord and in no way detract from our community.

June 7, 2024
at 10:01 AM

Jim and Cheryl
37922

6-A-24-UR
Jim and Cheryl (37922), June 7, 2024 at 10:22 AM

Please see the attached letter which expresses our concerns with the proposed subdivision plan.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20240607102219.pdf

June 7, 2024
at 10:22 AM

Homeowners Westland Bay
37922

6-A-24-UR
Homeowners Westland Bay (37922), June 11, 2024 at 9:48 AM

We agree with previously expressed concerns and hope the MPC will deny the application. But if the MPC decides to approve the project, we ask that it be a conditional approval with the following requirements added to previous requests.
The plan for the duplexes needs to be turned around (180 degrees, west to east) so that the 2 duplexes connect directly with the gravel driveway proposed for the third property. There is no need for a second, concrete driveway. This change will reduce the serious safety issues in turning onto Westland Drive from Westland Bay.
The garage for Lot 1 should be moved from its proposed location northwest of the house to southeast of the house to connect directly with the gravel driveway.
No trees along Westland Bay (bordering all three lots) should be cut.
The suggested wooden fence along Westland Bay should be about 6 feet tall and should not end at Westland Drive. To avoid people walking around the fence in either direction, the fence should turn at a right angle at Westland Drive, run along Westland Drive, and end at the gravel driveway.

June 11, 2024
at 9:48 AM

Westland Bay Homeowners
37922

6-A-24-UR
Westland Bay Homeowners (37922), June 11, 2024 at 9:52 AM

We request that the application (6-A-24-UR) be denied, not only for all the concerns expressed so far, but because of possible future development on Westland Bay by the applicant. It is likely that he is considering buying the large wooded tract on our street. He has already had it surveyed. It is also possible that he may buy the property at 1216 Westland Bay which the owner has tried selling many times. His plan may be to cram all this area with duplexes, which could result in about 20 duplexes at the small size he is planning. This may explain why he calls a plan for 2 duplexes and 1 ranch house a 'subdivision.' It would mean about 40 new families on a street where there have been only 9 single-family homes for 35 years. The homeowners on Westland Bay do not want a developer to encroach on our peaceful neighborhood with duplexes (possibly a string of them to come) and destroy the quiet character and the natural beauty of our single-family residential street. (Please read further details and concerns in the attachment.)
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20240611095224.pdf

June 11, 2024
at 9:52 AM

June 12, 2024
at 12:17 PM

Yvette
37922

6-B-24-UR
Yvette (37922), June 12, 2024 at 12:17 PM

As a resident of the Choto Area for the last 15 years, I have witnessed enormous growth which has resulted in a tremendous increase in traffic related accidents. While the roundabouts at Choto and Northshore have helped to some degree, the continual increase in residential and business approvals and builds has not. Northshore has not been widened. One flip off the non-existant shoulder and you're stuck for hours - happens a few times a year. People move to the suburbs for peace and quiet. A gas station/restaurant combo does NOT increase the serenity of the area. Quite the contrary. The proposal to build yet another gas station right in between two others is ridiculous and unnecessary. I VOTE NO!

June 14, 2024
at 11:00 AM

Ryan
37922

6-B-24-UR
Ryan (37922), June 14, 2024 at 11:00 AM

I am writing in support of this land usage and the potential addition of an EZ stop to our neighborhood (I live in Jefferson Park just down the road). I have seen the design for this store and with it's all brick facade, much improved food offerings, and strong local ownership (it is a family run business based in Maryville) would be a great addition. If this is not approved I worry that some other much larger corporate organization will come in with its cookie cutter design and make the area look like every other urban expansion. I would prefer to see a local business succeed who cares about the local area and its people versus another Weigel's or Taco Bell (which would likely pursue the land). I know I am only one person but when discussing this with my neighbors we are all in agreement.

June 17, 2024
at 10:05 AM

Drew
37922

6-B-24-UR
Drew (37922), June 17, 2024 at 10:05 AM

I am writing to express my support for the proposed development of a gas station and farm-to-kitchen restaurant in our neighborhood. While I understand that some community members have reservations, I believe this project will bring significant benefits to our area.

A local gas station will reduce travel time and emissions, contributing to a more sustainable community. The farm-to-kitchen restaurant is an exciting prospect, as it aligns perfectly with our values of supporting our local community. This restaurant will not only offer fresh options but also provide a market for local farmers, fostering a stronger local economy and a sense of community.

It is also important to note that modern gas stations and restaurants can be designed with aesthetics and community integration in mind. With thoughtful planning and collaboration, this development can enhance the charm of our area rather than detract from it. For instance, the design can incorporate elements that reflect the local character of the neighborhood, creating a seamless blend of old and new.

I am confident that this development will be a positive addition to our community, providing essential services, supporting local agriculture, and contributing to our economic vitality.

Mitzi
37922

6-B-24-UR
Mitzi (37922), June 22, 2024 at 5:01 PM

Leave our neighborhoods as neighborhoods. Traffic is terrible in this area as is and more traffic will negativity impact the surrounding parks with traffic congestion and air quality in a place designated for outside activity. Not to mention, the historical Concord area which has been part of my life for 50 years. We have enough gas stations and convenient stores in the area already. Please DO NOT approve this development. Thank you. Remember you are representatives of the people and if you don't stand for us on this, election time we will Remember who is actually doing what they are supposed to do.

June 22, 2024
at 5:01 PM

Jennifer
37922

6-B-24-UR
Jennifer (37922), July 3, 2024 at 3:51 PM

I strongly oppose the change in land use which would allow a fueling station, convenience store, and restaurant to be constructed on the acreage depicted in this proposal at 1025 Concord Road. I ask that the planning commission reject this proposal in its entirety. It is totally incompatible with the overall lifestyle and character of this small section of Knox County. Please see my specific comments in the attachment.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20240703155120.pdf

July 3, 2024
at 3:51 PM

Homeowners on Westland Bay Drive
37922

6-A-24-UR
Homeowners on Westland Bay Drive (37922), July 6, 2024 at 10:31 AM

Homeowners on Westland Bay Drive request the MPC to deny the application for all the reasons mentioned in the 8 prior comments.

However, if the MPC supports the staff recommendation to approve with conditions, please add another condition that the staff overlooked.

A fence is needed along the west side of the duplexes to ensure that construction trucks do not park on our private street. If they do, they will block access to emergency vehicles, delivery trucks, trash pick-up, etc. because our street is unusually narrow.

Also, the fence needs to be designed to prevent parking on our private street later by guests or workers coming to the duplexes. In addition to impeding access to our street if they park near the end, the county needs to ensure that no one other than legitimate visitors to our private street be allowed to park on it.

The fence should continue at a right angle along the south side of the lot to discourage visitors to the duplexes from parking on our street and simply walking around the fence. It should be set back a bit so as not to obscure the view of the traffic on Westland from the end of our street. All this should be a critical requirement for the approval process.

July 6, 2024
at 10:31 AM

Megan
37922

7-D-24-SU
Megan (37922), July 6, 2024 at 11:38 AM

See Attached Document
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20240706113819.pdf

July 6, 2024
at 11:38 AM

William
37922

7-D-24-SU
William (37922), July 6, 2024 at 4:12 PM

Letter of opposition is attached.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20240706161232.pdf

July 6, 2024
at 4:12 PM

James
37922

6-B-24-UR
James (37922), July 6, 2024 at 11:22 PM

See attached document with comments.

View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20240706232259.pdf

July 6, 2024
at 11:22 PM

James
37922

6-B-24-UR
James (37922), July 6, 2024 at 11:26 PM

See attached document for relevant information about historic cemeteries form the TN state website.
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20240706232605.pdf

July 6, 2024
at 11:26 PM

B Lamar
37922

7-D-24-SU
B Lamar (37922), July 7, 2024 at 6:44 PM

As a homeowner in the Northshore Town Center (NTC), I am OPPOSED to this request to allow any structure within the NTC to exceed 35' in height. Please see the attached document (NTC.pdf) for details supporting my opposition.

View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20240707184401.pdf

July 7, 2024
at 6:44 PM

Jennifer
37922

6-A-24-UR
Jennifer (37922), July 7, 2024 at 11:12 PM

Duplexes are "Uses Permitted on Review" and NOT a guaranteed land use based on our Knox County zoning regulations, as I understand it. This portion of Westland Drive has NO multi-family residences and I strongly believe it should remain single family only! The presence of duplexes will lower adjacent housing values and that is not fair to the many people who have lived here a very long time. Just because we are in an overall planned growth area does not mean we need to jam in several multi-family units on lots designated for a single family home. Westland has already endured the addition of a significant number of multifamily units at the Pellissippi, Westland exchange. Being "consistent" with the comprehensive plan is vague and insufficient reasoning in the staff recommendation. In actuality it is entirely inconsistent with our neighborhood along Westland. I respectfully request denial of this proposed land use.

July 7, 2024
at 11:12 PM

Sherri
37922

7-D-24-SU
Sherri (37922), July 8, 2024 at 6:29 PM

I am a resident of NTC. I highly oppose the approval of this amendment. Residents have invested in a view and were told no lofts were going to be higher than the original lofts. This is the last phase of Mike Stevens builds. We need to protect their investment and views of the scenic highway. He has lofts adjacent that he was suppose to duplicate that in the same level as these.

July 8, 2024
at 6:29 PM

Kleveland
37922

7-D-24-SU
Kleveland (37922), July 8, 2024 at 7:11 PM

I oppose 7-D-24-17 request to amend the previously approved planned district to increase the maximum height of a townhouse from 35 feet to approximately 41 feet In Northshore Town Center. When I built my custom home completed in November 2022, I was told by the builder that future plans for the undeveloped property would not obstruct my view of the lake and mountains. With current building to date, my view from the first three floors of my home are obstructed. With the proposed exception to code, it would obstruct my last remainder of the view from the top floor. This would greatly diminish the value of my property. In addition I believe this exception to building height would violate the Scenic Highway and Parkway Legislation (TCA 54-17). This could be a very unfortunate precedent and put the beauty of our parkways all over East Tennessee at risk. Please vote no.

July 8, 2024
at 7:11 PM

Sharon
37922

7-D-24-SU
Sharon (37922), July 9, 2024 at 5:22 PM

My husband Richard and I reside in Northshore Town Center. We love our neighborhood so much that we have considered a newer property in the hood as an upgrade. Our primary motivation for the upgrade would be for the view of the lake and mountains from one of the new rooftops on the newer lofts. In speaking with the Stevens, I got mixed reviews from them on whether or not this would impact views of existing neighbors. Views add value to properties. If other properties are being devalued in this, certainly seems that would not be a desire of anyone involved.

July 9, 2024
at 5:22 PM

William
37922

6-B-24-UR
William (37922), July 10, 2024 at 9:22 AM

The EZ Stop proposed development on Concord Rd is a bad idea. This development does not fit in with its proximity to Historic Old Concord. Please do not approve this development. I am sure there are better ways to develop this property.

July 10, 2024
at 9:22 AM

paige
37922

7-D-24-SU
paige (37922), Submitted during the meeting

Please see attached
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20240711100233.pdf

Submitted during the meeting