I have been a resident of Woodbury Forest Apartments for the past nine years. Here, as a single mother, I've nurtured my son amidst the natural beauty of Virginia Beach. Raising him in Virginia Beach Middle and First Colonial High School, and now seeing him off to VCU, has been a proud journey. Living in this community has meant watching Phoenix grow not just in schools but also in the heart of our vibrant neighborhood nature. We've delighted in the company of baby ducks every spring, majestic geese, elegant cranes, turtles, snakes, foxes, and more wild creatures that have peacefully shared our space.

Yet, the serenity of our home and the invaluable habitats of the wildlife faces imminent threat from the proposed mini-storage and restaurant development at 941 Laskin Road, in the former parking lot of the Beach Cinema Ale House. This project proposes a conditional use permit to repurpose the area, which is half the time empty, and overlooks the precious marshlands and wetlands encircling its boundaries. Our concerns are valid and shared by many residents who cherish this ecological treasure.

The marshlands function not only as a haven for local fauna but as crucial buffers against flooding and water runoff—key environmental services that protect our homes and communities. The introduction of a mini-storage facility, with its potential for increased traffic and pollution, threatens this delicate balance. We fear that the consequences could include irreversible damage to these ecosystems and a reduction in our quality of life due to more congestion and pollution.

We urge the decision-makers to reconsider and deny the conditional use permit for 941 Laskin Road. Instead, there's an opportunity to prioritize eco-friendly development by incorporating sustainable building materials and designs that enhance rather than detract from the natural beauty and ecological function. Transforming this space into a green area that complements our community's aesthetic and functional needs can serve as a shining example of responsible urban development.

By signing this petition, you join us in standing for a project that fosters future enjoyment and environmental stewardship. Let’s push for a solution that prioritizes ecological sustainability over commercial convenience, ensuring that Virginia Beach remains a cherished sanctuary for all its residents and wildlife. Please sign and support our vision for a greener, more sustainable future for 941 Laskin Road. Together, we can make a difference.