Dean II rezoning

Opposed the 'spot zoning' extension, asking why GMH Communities avoids affordable housing contributions and minimal sustainability standards.

A longtime Fifth Avenue resident said the city needs affordable housing for permanent residents, not more apartments, citing empty storefronts and parking overcapacity downtown.

Urged a no vote, saying the parcel should be a step-down buffer, warned of traffic bottlenecks on cut-off streets, and noted a neighborhood petition requiring a supermajority.

Supported the rezoning as an ideal location for student housing near transit and dorms, and asked council to approve B-1 and DS-2.

Argued the council could have required 36 affordable units or $3.5 million by using a PUD instead of D1 rezoning, and urged the next administration to stop 'giving money to developers.'

Advised a no vote, disturbed by the spot zoning approach and the removal of existing affordable housing in the area.

Said D1 zoning allowing up to 19 stories is inappropriate for the block and warned of harm to neighborhood property values.

Pushed back on 'families don't want apartments' arguments and said the old buildings aren't historic — 'let's build Ann Arbor's first skyscraper there.'

Spoke in support, saying student housing downtown eases pressure on surrounding single-family neighborhoods and highlights the need for zoning reform.