Residents protest plan

By Libby John

Several DeKalb residents showed concern over the proposal of a new house being built on Arrowhead Lane at Wednesday night’s Plan Commission meeting.

The proposal was that the property be split into two lots so an additional house can be built.

The commission eventually approved the motion.

DeKalb resident Merrie Ann Nall said she first moved into that neighborhood because of the abundance of oak and pine trees.

If a new house is built, she said, the trees could be torn down, which could affect the value of the homes.

Discussion to build a new property began in mid-July and it was a thought-out process, said Mike Carpenter of Carpenter Real Estate.

DeKalb resident Rob Vest, who also moved to the neighborhood because of the forestry, said that when he built his garage, he was careful about not cutting down any trees, and he talked with his neighbors before continuing the project.

Chris Carpenter, who plans on building the house on the additional lot, is looking forward to moving into the neighborhood, he said.

He also said he wanted to do his project by cutting down as few trees as possible.

The meeting also played host to a public hearing for Immanuel Lutheran Church, 511 Russell Road, to expand. The expansion will include an enhanced entrance and an elevator shaft.

Joseph Freed and Associates also asked for a special-use permit for a drive-thru facility at the former Red Lobster, 2470 Sycamore Road.

The potential tenants will be kept confidential, said Andy Stein, representative for Joseph Freed and Associates.

There also was a public hearing for most of the property on Annie Glidden Road and Knolls Avenue to be turned into residential property.

Mason Properties plans on building a quiet-lifestyle townhouse community, said Jim Mason, owner of Mason Properties.

DeKalb resident Jon Ostenburg said he hoped that property would be turned into a grocery store or other outlet to be of some service for residents.

A request by Mike Carpenter for a special-use permit for a restaurant with a drive-up facility was deleted from the agenda after the potential franchise backed out. Also, a request by TAILS Humane Society for rezoning property of Barber Greene Road was deleted.