I started this online petition to help reach more people in our community who may want to support this cause. While neighbors have been collecting signatures in person, I wanted to create an easier way for residents to make their voices heard — especially for those who may not be able to attend meetings or contact council members directly.

High-density zoning can significantly impact established neighborhoods by increasing traffic, noise, and congestion, while also placing added strain on local infrastructure and resources. At this point, the City of Findlay has not completed impact studies related to traffic, infrastructure, or long-term community effects, yet the rezoning proposal continues to move forward. These types of developments can also negatively affect neighborhood character, quality of life, and long-term property values.

Affordability is another important concern. The median household income in Findlay is approximately $61,423. Using the standard guideline that housing costs should not exceed 30% of household income, affordable monthly housing expenses would be around $1,535 including utilities. The proposed development has been marketed with rental rates ranging from $1,500–$2,000 per month before utilities, making these units unrealistic for many local residents.

City leadership has suggested that luxury apartments could help free up lower-income housing elsewhere in the market. However, if demand for high-end apartments is truly exceeding supply, why are there already similarly priced apartments in Findlay currently available for immediate move-in? This raises valid questions about whether this development truly addresses the housing needs of our community.

As neighbors, we are not opposed to the sale or development of the property, nor are we opposed to growth. We simply believe high-density housing is not the right fit for this location. Instead, we support zoning the parcel for single-family residential use, which would better preserve the character, stability, and peaceful environment of the neighborhood while still allowing for thoughtful development.

This neighborhood is home to residents in every stage of life. While many longtime homeowners and retirees have spoken at meetings, there are also younger families and professionals deeply invested in this community. I personally moved into this neighborhood at 27 and am now 32. Our community includes expecting parents, families raising children, and residents preparing to send their kids off to college. We all care deeply about protecting the place we call home.

It is important that the voices of current residents — the people who have invested years into building this community — are genuinely considered in these decisions. By choosing development that aligns with the existing residential character of the area, we can preserve the safe, welcoming, and connected neighborhood that so many families value.

I urge city officials and planners to carefully consider the long-term impact of this rezoning proposal and to listen to the concerns of the residents who live here every day. Together, we can support responsible growth while protecting the character and integrity of our neighborhood for future generations.

Please consider signing this petition and sharing it with others who care about the future of our community.