Howser Development Update

As promised, we're keeping you informed about the Howser Development project at 1200 Oak Street. Here's the latest on the proposed 42-unit residential building that's been the talk of the neighborhood.

Current Status

The developer, Howser Properties LLC, presented revised plans to the Planning Commission on January 8th. After incorporating feedback from our October community meeting, they've made several modifications to the original proposal:

- Reduced height from 5 stories to 4 stories

- Increased parking from 38 to 52 spaces (including 6 street-level guest spots)

- Added a larger setback along Maple Avenue to preserve existing trees

- Committed to brick and stone facades that better match Oakwood's character

The Planning Commission voted 4-1 to advance the proposal to City Council with conditions. The final hearing is scheduled for February 18th at 7:00 PM.

What This Means for Oakwood

The positives we're seeing:

15% of units (6 total) designated as affordable housing

Ground-floor retail space committed to local businesses only

Developer agrees to contribute $75,000 to our Oak Street improvement fund

New residents could mean more customers for our local businesses

Modern stormwater management system that addresses current flooding issues

Ongoing concerns we're tracking:

Construction impact on traffic (estimated 14-18 months)

Whether infrastructure can handle 100+ new residents

Maintaining neighborhood character and scale

Parking spillover during events at Wilson Park

School capacity at Oakwood Elementary

Your Association's Position

After extensive member input and three board meetings, we've taken a position of "conditional support" – backing the project IF the developer meets specific requirements we've outlined in a formal agreement. These include construction hour limits, traffic mitigation during building, and honoring all commitments made to the community.

What Happens Next

February 3rd - Developer hosting open house at the site (4-6 PM)

February 10th - Our member-only discussion session at the community center

February 18th - City Council final vote (your voice matters!)

March 1st - If approved, anticipated permit filing

May 2026 - Projected construction start

How You Can Stay Involved

This development will impact all of us, and your input continues to matter:

Attend the February 10th member session to share your thoughts with the board

Contact City Council members before February 18th (template available on our member portal)

Join our Development Committee if you want deeper involvement

Stay informed through these exclusive member updates

Our Commitment

We'll continue representing Oakwood's interests throughout this process. The developer knows we're organized, engaged, and watching closely. That's the power of having 220+ member households standing together.

Whether you support or oppose this project, we're making sure Oakwood's voice is heard loud and clear. Thank you for giving us that collective strength.

Questions? Reach out anytime or join us February 10th for detailed discussion.