As noted in the previous post, environmentalists are concerned that the land-use ordinance set for vote tomorrow at the Pulaski County Quorum Court doesn’t go far enough in protecting the Lake Maumelle Watershed. Meanwhile, landowners in the watershed have been even more vocal in their opposition of late. They believe that the ordinance goes too far and will damage their property values.
Kent Walker, attorney for anti-ordinance landowner Lorie White, sent a letter to members of the Quorum Court on Friday listing a series of concerns. Walker cites four issues: questions about an easement deal with planning board chair Ray Vogelpohl; landowners’ fears of a financial hit from dropping property values to subsidize CAW water they do not use (many have their savings tied up in their property); a pending lawsuit that could undo the ordinance if successful; and a preference for an approach with more buy-in from landowners with a possible moratorium on development.
The letter claims that there is “little immediate threat to the water” and proposes delaying action.
See the letter here: landowners.pdf