Do Not Rezone the Former Model Mill Property

I understand that Johnson City needs to make smart business decisions for our community but I am concerned that this is not the type of development that we need in this area. I believe this is a short term fix to this problem that will have lasting consequences.

Red Flags! Developer Renigs: Developer misrepresents project to lure in businesses, residential neighbors and city leaders; developer requires major concessions required to avoid the desirable and much--needed "mixed use" of the property; out of town developer pattern shows history of build it, sell it off and move on to next community; commissioners made to appear prey to political pressure & short-sightedness by choosing "quick-fix" solution, "only" viable option; Commisioners put in squeeze play to make wrong decision resulting in current commissioners leaving a legacy to further diminish Johnson City progress and heritage; Chamber of Commerce desperate to dump property and urges commissioners to ignore red flags and "save" them; Citizens of Johnson City finding it necessary to stop and speak out against a possible mis-step and help illuminate issues and urge city leaders to help further the progress of Downtown revitalization efforts and support quality, well-planned sustainable projects and developments. Johnson City residents care about the long-term future of our town and count on our elected city commissioners and appointed leaders and planners to make well-studied, long-sighted decisions on behalf of the people. Please take note of the recent, very positive public response to many, progressive projects and decisions made by this board of commissioners and city leaders...this affirming and validating response from the people is a good indication of well-researched plans and wise decisions that include the very important component of longevity and "vision" on the part of commissioners for our entire commmunity. All around town, people are talking about Tupelo Honey, The Tweetsie Trail, Founder's Park, Water Retention/Flood Water Retention Projects; Lady of the Fountain; Landscaping and Beautifcation projects and more. We're excited to see what's next. People are excited and proud about the promise of these ideas, decisions and projects. The

As well as all of the other issues that have been brought up, General Mills is a beautiful historic building!

Please do not rezone. This is a bad idea.

Commercial or commercial/residential--not student housing--is more appropriate.

This is a very visible and important location in the corridor that connects the university, the medical community and downtown. We should do the corridor study first and we should all participate in the discussion. This site should be developed thoughtfully with an eye to what will draw people to johnson city, and to what will help enhance efforts already being made. We need a more vital downtown business community.

The mill is a part of JC history. It should be registered as a historic building. It can be restored and used for any number of revenue generating purposes. ETSU could even use it. Give it to them. It may be used as an astronomy center, even.

I vote against building the complex

I'm happy that the Johnson City chamber can make a return on their investment from the Mill property, but there's no harm to anyone in slowing the process down a bit and focusing on long term benefits to Johnnson City. Let’s just take a deep breath, do the corridor study and find synergies between Walnut Street, ETSU, Downtown, and JC’s Master Plan.

This development will likely turn into a run-down property once the developers and any subsequent owners have squeezed out as much money and tax breaks as possible.

Keep the Mill!!!!!

We do not need more apartments and condos in JC!

It may be a college town, however college students do not come and support local businesses. They support the mall. Downtown and the surrounding outskirts need to grow from small support. Not college run streets that just go to Starbucks or Gap. There are way better things we could do to preserve such an historic area.

No apartments! Rennovate the Mill and make it mixed-used, if nothing else.

No one yet, city planners, city leadership, Chamber of Commerce or the proposed developer has provided any compelling argument as to how a stick built, rent by the room apartment complex will improve this property or enhance the ETSU to downtown corridor.

The mill property is a critical piece of the overall Johnson City revitalization picture. Particularly with the new Founders Park (with walking path and scenic riverway) that provides a crucial connection between ETSU, the Tree Streets neighborhood, and the downtown area, this high profile property should be used to increase the value, vitality, and marketability of this area of Johnson City.

My 34 years experience in this area says if Walnut is to be revitilized, changes must occur in zoning. HOWEVER, these changes should occur in a thoughtful manner and not pieces-parted. For the good of the neighborhood and business district, it is my opinion a study must be done BEFORE such a massive apartment complex is set for this site--rent by the room or not.

I believe that our neighborhood, and Johnson City would significantly benefit from a combination of retail shops, service providers, and informal meeting spots. I am intriqued by the new developments being done now that include vital services and necessary shops, eg. groceries that turn communities into vital and exciting places to live.

I believe a corridor study will allow for a more informed decision by local leaders, community members and local government on the Mill property.

We need more affordable housing, but a new complex here where they will charge over $500 for an apartment ($8/hr 40/wk is $1280/mo, and $500 is more than 1/3 of that amount...don't expect any young adult creative types you so desire for downtown) is not a good idea in the middle of the Tree Streets. West Walnut Street is already difficult to get in or out of where it intersects with State of Franklin. Please reconsider.