Pros and Cons

We believe that Franklin's current proposal should not be approved without modifications. There are two major reasons for our position:

Current zoning would allow approximately 30 single family homes. Franklin's proposal for 120 condominium apartments would quadruple or triple density which is not in keeping with the character of our rural / suburban township.
Zoning is supposed to protect each of us from haphazard development. Adjacent homeowners purchased properties in a neighborhood of single family homes. Absent a compelling public need (or the agreement of the neighbors), government should not pull the rug out from under them by rezoning to allow condominium apartments.

That said, there are positive aspects of Franklin's proposal. We see those as:

It would improve the property's aesthetics when compared to the current use.
It would remove any nuisances created by the nightclub operation.
The proposed cluster development preserves open space when compared to a traditional single family home development.
Franklin has indicated a willingness to make the project's walking trails open to the community.
New development would increase tax revenue to the Township, County and School District.