Knoxville Mayor Madeline Rogero is calling on Knoxville City Council to table further plans to expand an evolving neighborhood's historic overlay to help quell divisions and evaluate future planning guidelines.
"Unfortunately, the heated discussions around this proposed expansion, which would triple the size of the existing (historic overlay) district in Parkridge, have amplified rather than allayed fears about the possible impact on low-income residents and property owners in the neighborhood," Rogero said in a news release Tuesday afternoon.
As mayor, Rogero does not typically cast a vote on matters before council. She can, however, weigh in on council's options.
The intent is to protect the historic character of the area, which is north of Magnolia Avenue. It includes homes that are more than a hundred years old, some of which were designed by famed architect George Barber.
Its boundaries roughly are Magnolia, Interstate 40, and Cherry and Winona streets.
According to the Parkridge Community Organization, the area features about 1,800 residences and more than 2,750 people. The organization supports expansion of the district.
In the late 20th century, the neighborhood began to slip into decay and disrepair. Crime increased.
The area is on the rebound, however, drawing young professionals, artists and people passionate about historic preservation. At the same time, some low-income residents remain, and they've expressed worries about being able to afford any requirements that would come with expanding a historic overlay for Parkridge.
An overlay can bring greater government scrutiny of any changes a resident wants to make to the exterior of their home.
The future of Parkridge proved a point of discussion in the recent City Council District 6 race between Gwen McKenzie and Jennifer Montgomery, who is on the board of directors of the community group. McKenzie won the election.
It's rare for Rogero, a champion of community development, to step in so pointedly to a neighborhood debate.
City Council on Nov. 7 on first reading agreed to expand the historic overlay 6-3, with Dan Brown of the 6th District, Nick Pavlis and Nick Della Volpe voting no.
Council is set Nov. 21 to vote on a second reading.
Rogero said Tuesday the issue is too divisive right now to move forward. It's time for everyone to focus on "constructive community dialogue," she said.
"I have spoken with council members, and like me, many of them are uncomfortable with the continued level of distrust and disagreement among different factions in the Parkridge neighborhood on the value and benefits of the proposed H-1 expansion," the mayor said.
McKenzie, who is succeeding Brown, raised concerns about expanding the overlay.
Rogero said she supports historic preservation. City staff are ready to help elected officials and neighbors talk through numerous questions about the overlay.
"The hard work of neighbors on all sides of this issue can also help inform future dialogues," Rogero said.
