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Regular City Council Meeting <br />Monday, October 13, 2008 <br />Page 13 <br />put neighborhoods first. Ms. Park opined that Roseville neighborhoods were a <br />great asset; and further opined that her neighborhood didn't need increased traffic <br />or decreased property values. <br />Lucy Hulme, 1720 W Eldridge Avenue <br />Ms. Hulme opined that HarMar had been a centerpiece and a wonderful thing in <br />her neighborhood, had provided wonderful access, even though it had experienced <br />many ups and downs over the years. Ms. Hulme observed that, when she asked <br />local business owners why they were leaving HarMar, they had told her it was <br />due increased rents that they could no longer afford; further creating concern that <br />big box retail was going in. Ms. Hulme opined that the Barnes and Noble fran- <br />chise at HarMar had been a great addition; however, asked that the City Council <br />consider the request of the neighborhood in keeping the HarMar Mall atmosphere <br />that it has been for so long, and noted the long, and marvelous family history of <br />the center, rather than current, out-of--state ownership who don't have the same <br />accessibility and livability concerns of the community in mind. <br />Ms. Hulme opined that it was difficult for most of the community to understand <br />what was actually being discussed and considered; noting that many were un- <br />aware until they'd received the anonymous flyer, whether it was accurate or not. <br />Ms. Hulme further opined that the majority of people in Roseville were asking <br />that HarMar be kept as it is to serve the community, since the community had <br />given up a large place at Rosedale, and that big box retailers not be accommo- <br />dated at HarMar. Ms. Hulme opined that the reporter who previously spoke <br />needed to make clear what was actually happening, and to provide a primer for <br />residents. <br />Jeff Johnson, 1192 Burke, neighbor of HarMar <br />Mr. Johnson spoke in appreciation of the remarks made by residents at tonight's <br />meeting, and for their passion. Mr. Johnson opined that HarMar as it currently is <br />was apparently greatly appreciated by residents and served the needs of the com- <br />munity. Mr. Johnson, as a member of the Steering Committee, spoke in support <br />of the proposed language defining "Community Business;" however, opined that <br />there was a problem with it capping future development at 100,000 square feet, <br />when it was currently at 475,000 square feet; and further opined that while big <br />box was not wanted at HarMar, there was some responsibility due to small busi- <br />nesses continuing to exist there. <br />Tam McGehee, 77 Mid Oaks Lane <br />Ms. McGehee opined that Mr. Johnson didn't understand that everyone was seek- <br />ing clarity; and that if the Comprehensive Plan moved forward as currently <br />drafted, there was no indication that HarMar was being asked to reduce itself to <br />100,000 square feet of commercial retail. Ms. McGehee opined that, if a 15 story <br />office tower with quality jobs was developed, there would be no footprint limita- <br />tion. <br />