A debate over re-zoning in going on in Galesburg. The city is working with a developer to build a hotel, businesses and duplexes. However, people who live in the neighborhood question the development.
The proposed development site is at Highway 34 and Seminary Street. The lot is currently a cornfield that sits across the street from a Super Walmart and Menards. People who live right beyond the proposed development site are worried about the implications of more businesses.
"Will there be more traffic?" asks Larry Willet, "Since they developed the area for Walmart and Menards we've had a lot of traffic come down Carl Sandberg."
Traffic is one of the biggest worries people who live right behind the proposed development have.
The 27-acre of land is currently a cornfield, but the city is considering re-zoning the land. The developer says a hotel, several businesses and duplexes will be built.
"Seminary Street and Highway 34 is a major intersection and is a major traffic artery into Galesburg. You have Walmart and Menards across the street and it's created a new retail center," says Todd Raufeisen with Raufeisen Development.
Since the plans are preliminary, the developer says he can work with residents to make sure everyone is happy.
"If there are certain changes that are reasonable we can make changes to accommodate and calm their fears," adds Raufeisen, "Our intent is being good neighbors."
The city is working with the developer to ensure the neighborhood doesn't change due to the hotel and businesses.
"It's a buffer of residential living between the proposed business and hotel in the preexisting residential area," says Galesburg Mayor Sal Garza.
If the development is built, it will be a $30-million to $40-million investment that will bring jobs to the area. Everyone says it's a great opportunity, but they want it in another part of the city.
"Who wants to buy a house that's right behind a hotel, it's going to be hard for me to sell my house," says Tom Axline.
A public hearing will be held the city's planning and zoning meeting on Tuesday, September 18th. The meeting starts at 7pm at City Hall.
