Laurel Park Speaks Out

The following was sent by the President of the Laurel Park Neighborhood Association. It clearly indicates the desire of the Laurel Park residents and owners.

Recent postings have discussed the future of Laurel Park. Now that the results of the city's Land Use Survey have been published, we know what residents and owners themselves want for the neighborhood. Survey participants, by a large margin, want to keep the existing RSM-9 zoning, according to results from the city administered Land Use Survey held at Payne Park on April 16.

The city is currently considering the issue of the most appropriate land use classification for Laurel Park as part of its review of the city’s comprehensive plan. Extending the downtown’s "new urban" land use classification to Laurel Park would allow increases in height and density, and possibly more commercial uses.

The survey, which consisted of 18 photos and statements, was designed to measure respondents’ desires for future development in Laurel Park. For example, in addition to one and two story houses, participants were asked to rate the desirability of three story rowhouses, two story live-work arrangements, and so on. Some 85 people took the survey, including resident homeowners, investors, and renters.

According to city figures, 71% of respondents voted to retain RSM-9, Laurel Park’s existing zoning. In addition, participants favored a maximum two stories rather than three, no increase in density, and no new commercial development. The exact questions and percentage figures are as follows:

Land Use Survey Questions

• I want the City to retain the current RSM-9 zoning that is in place today. 71% YES
• The number of residential units on individual lots should be increased in Laurel Park. 80% NO
• I would like to see a limited amount of commercial retail and office development in Laurel Park (i.e. corner stores and offices located in housing structures. 69% NO
• Non-residential land uses (i.e. offices or stores) should be allowed in historic structures in Laurel Park. 65% NO
• New buildings in Laurel Park should not exceed two stories in height. 75% YES
• New apartment buildings should be allowed to be built in Laurel Park. 67% NO

The city’s results do not break out the views of resident homeowners as a separate category, but the survey did ask participants whether they had a homestead exemption. As a group, homeowner residents voted even more strongly in favor of retaining the existing RSM-9 zoning, along with its lower height, lower density, and residential nature.

The city will continue its comprehensive plan review process--of which Laurel Park is just one element--through the summer. Public hearings will be held on June 22 (the Planning Board) and July 25 (the City Commission.)

Kate Lowman, President, Laurel Park Neighborhood Association