I am a long-term resident of Louise Dr SE, Jacksonville, AL. Today, I speak not only for myself but also for my neighbors who equally feel the adverse impact of the decision to rezone lots from R1 to R2.

Our homes, nestled in a quiet and peaceful environment, are at risk of losing their tranquility with the sudden densification that R2 zoning would allow. The recent proposed changes to the zoning laws present a direct attack on the suburban character of our homes. This alteration would open the doors for duplex developments, increasing the density, traffic, noise level, and strain on city services in our single dwelling neighborhood.

In many communities, such changes have led to neighborhood instability, declining property values and an eroded sense of community [source: Urban Displacement Project, UC Berkeley]. The facts warn us and other neighborhoods around the country about the potential downsides of such zoning changes.

We call upon Jacksonville's planning and development council to cease any future plans to change the zoning from R1 to R2 on Louise Dr SE. Instead, we ask the council to focus on maintaining the integrity, safety, and charm of our treasured neighborhood.

Please stand with us in our fight to preserve our homes. Sign this petition to oppose the proposed rezoning of our lots from R1 to R2. Protect our homes, protect our neighborhood.