COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The latest chapters in a controversial rezoning request that would lead to a proposed housing development at the site of the former Fremont School Building on South Fremont are expected to be played out Monday night at both the Coldwater City Council and Coldwater School Board meetings.
A public hearing and action on an ordinance to rezone over nine acres of land at 95 South Fremont from A-1 One Family Residential to A-3 Multi Family Residential is on the agenda for the City Council meeting.
The NRP Group of the Cleveland, Ohio area wants to buy the property from Coldwater Community Schools for $425,000 in order to build a proposed apartment complex of nearly 70 units. Numerous concerns have been raised from nearby Fourth Ward residents such as increased traffic and lighting. Some also feel an apartment complex would not blend in with the many historical homes along West Pearl.
The Coldwater Planning Commission voted 5-4 last month to give a negative recommendation to the City Council on the rezoning request.
Opponents have also gathered nearly 500 petition signatures from throughout the city.
But those who back the project say it will provide much needed housing and new tax revenues for the city.
Meanwhile, the Coldwater School Board is scheduled to take action Monday night on a purchase agreement with NRP Properties for the purchase of the derelict Fremont School Building and property.
The School Board wrote in a letter to the City Council that they should approve the rezoning for the proposed complex. They said money from the land sale could be used to buy new school buses and for other practical needs in the district. The letter went on to say if the rezoning is not permitted, the sale to NRP will not happen.
