As residents of the City of Kalamazoo, we wish to signal our fervent and unequivocal support of the position statement filed by the Oakland Drive/Winchell Neighborhood Association Board regarding both the proposed rezoning of 4301 and 4305 Stadium Drive, and 2231 S. Drake Road from current Residential (RS-5) status to Community Commercial (CC) and the proposed removal of the Natural Features Protection (NFP) Overlay from 4301 and 4305 Stadium Drive.

We strongly oppose the proposal to rezone these properties to Community Commercial. It would be clearly inconsistent with the City’s Master Plan to allow such high-density commercial development immediately adjacent to residences (Stadium Drive Apartments) and the Asylum Lake Preserve.

We also strongly oppose the proposal to eliminate the NFP Overlay on any of the properties. Natural features within the City must continue to be protected for the long term enjoyment of City residents and the health of the environment. 

Both proposals violate the essential balance between our neighborhood quality of life, environmental responsibility, and sustainable development. This balance is a recognized, distinguishing, and even unique beauty of our City. It must be judiciously and responsibly protected.