Too many questions about development

On Monday, Nov. 26, the village of Huntley Plan Commission will meet to consider a petition to build a mixed-use development on 17 acres known as the old School Property on Route 47 between Main and Mill streets.

The proposed development includes apartment buildings, town homes, single-family homes, commercial space and retail space. The proposed development is such that traffic will be generated to and from this property 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

I want to be clear: I am not opposed to developing this property. As a lifelong Huntley resident, I believe any development should improve property values, enhance area appearance and add to the quality of life. There are too many unknowns about this property.

The petitioner admits he does not have any tenants for the commercial and retail spaces in the development. Are you aware that there is existing commercial and retail space available in Huntley? In fact, along Route 47 from Tallamore to the Tollway, the number of vacant spaces is in the double-digits.

I'm concerned about the petitioner's lack of experience in property management. I wonder how the petitioner plans to market his space? What types of businesses does he plan to attract? What will be the business hours for the retail spaces? How long will it take to fill the commercial and retail space? What happens if the commercial and retail space in this development can't be filled?

The petitioner has stated his proposal conforms to the Village's Downtown Revitalization plan. However, none of the building designs in his proposal are similar in appearance to the historic downtown buildings.

I hope to find answers to my questions and others at the Plan Commission meeting. I encourage all residents who are concerned about this development to attend the meeting on Nov. 26.

Jeffrey Peterson

Huntley