I am writing out of deep concern for the future of our community in Saint Charles. Our neighborhood is a peaceful, low-density area that many of us chose specifically for its quiet, spacious character. The current concept plan submitted by M/I Homes — Claibourne Farm — seeks to build 83 homes on 38 acres west of Rosebud Drive and south of Reserve Drive. The parcel is the northern portion of the property known as Red Gate Farm, located at 36W368 Red Gate Road.

Red Gate Farm has long symbolized the rural charm and natural beauty that define Saint Charles. Converting this land into a high-density subdivision threatens that character and risks setting a precedent for similar developments that could further erode our agricultural and open-space heritage.

This concept plan raises several concerns:

• Traffic & Infrastructure: Increased vehicle volume on Reserve Dr, Rosebud Dr, Meadowview Dr, River Ridge Dr and Red Gate Rd may strain these and surrounding roads and could create safety issues. Additional households may also place pressure on schools and public services that are not planned for this growth.
• Unsafe and Impractical Access Point: The development’s planned entrance as per the current concept plan is located on an S-curved residential street that already struggles with two-way traffic. Based on resident experience, when cars are parked on this street, only a single lane is passable.. Adding the traffic of 83 new homes could create a dangerous bottleneck and increase the risk of accidents.
• Environmental Impact: Replacing green space with pavement may reduce biodiversity, could harm local wildlife, and potentially increases the risk of stormwater runoff—an issue that already affects parts of Saint Charles.
• Property Values & Compatibility: The proposed density does not align with the surrounding neighborhoods and may negatively affect existing property values and overall community cohesion.

We support responsible, sustainable growth that respects the character of Saint Charles. More suitable alternatives include low-density housing consistent with surrounding neighborhoods or a plan that preserves Red Gate Farm and offers a meaningful portion of open space.

This petition represents community concerns and perspectives regarding the current concept plan and we urge our city leaders to carefully consider the long-term impact of this project. By signing this petition, you ask the Saint Charles City Council to reject the current high-density concept plan and work instead with residents to develop solutions that protect our community, environment, and way of life.