Conway Homeowners Argue Against Proposed Kum & Go Store
By: Josh Berry, KARK 4 News
Updated: June 19, 2012
A small section of homeowners in a Conway neighborhood, wanting to make sure their voices are heard, didn't get that chance Monday (6/18) evening.
They hoped to express concerns over the Conway Planning Commission's potential decision to approve the rezoning and building of a Kum & Go convenience store.
They didn't however, meet quorum meaning they couldn't vote.
Kum and Go wants to change a residential zoned property to a commercial and be allowed to place gas pumps on the property.
The area in question is near the intersection of Donaghey Avenue and Dave Ward Drive.
A small group of homeowners that live near the proposed sight attended the meeting Monday night.
They said they are strongly against the proposal citing noise, traffic and property value concerns to personal safety.
"I'm worried about the safety of my grand-kids," said Irene McDonald, who lives across the street from the proposed property.
A book store currently resides on the property but McDonald said the building of a Kum and Go would compromise what's left of the safety of an already dangerous place for her grandchildren.
"And they'll be getting off the bus and walking to their home which would be directly across from that gas station."
The group planned to voice their opposition, preferring it go, rather than come.
"I think the noise level and the traffic is just going to be horrible," said another homeowner, Mary Beacham. "I mean it's already very busy."
But they didn't get the chance.
"Several commissioners had unavoidable conflicts that came up that did not allow us to have a quorum tonight to consider tonight's business," explained Chair of the Conway Planning Commission, Greg Cloud.
The Commission ensured the public they will try to expedite this process in consideration of everyone involved.
Cloud added, "It's only fair that we consider this request in a timely manner and get this moved on to the city council."
There are about five property and homeowners for the Kum and Go. Some have already entered into negotiations with the company, even financially benefiting if the gas station is approved.
Either way, it will have to wait.
When the next meeting rolls around, the homeowners at tonight's meeting vow to fight a potential approval.
"To take homes and turn them into a convenient store gas station is just terrible," Beacham said.
McDonald added, "I'm worried... period. I'm just worried."
The Commission hopes to reconvene on July 2 to move this issue along. Even if they deny Kum and Go's request, the company will likely appeal, still sending it on to the city council for a final decision.
That meeting will happen on July 10.
Still plenty of time for homeowners to speak their mind.
They hoped to express concerns over the Conway Planning Commission's potential decision to approve the rezoning and building of a Kum & Go convenience store.
They didn't however, meet quorum meaning they couldn't vote.
Kum and Go wants to change a residential zoned property to a commercial and be allowed to place gas pumps on the property.
The area in question is near the intersection of Donaghey Avenue and Dave Ward Drive.
A small group of homeowners that live near the proposed sight attended the meeting Monday night.
They said they are strongly against the proposal citing noise, traffic and property value concerns to personal safety.
"I'm worried about the safety of my grand-kids," said Irene McDonald, who lives across the street from the proposed property.
A book store currently resides on the property but McDonald said the building of a Kum and Go would compromise what's left of the safety of an already dangerous place for her grandchildren.
"And they'll be getting off the bus and walking to their home which would be directly across from that gas station."
The group planned to voice their opposition, preferring it go, rather than come.
"I think the noise level and the traffic is just going to be horrible," said another homeowner, Mary Beacham. "I mean it's already very busy."
But they didn't get the chance.
"Several commissioners had unavoidable conflicts that came up that did not allow us to have a quorum tonight to consider tonight's business," explained Chair of the Conway Planning Commission, Greg Cloud.
The Commission ensured the public they will try to expedite this process in consideration of everyone involved.
Cloud added, "It's only fair that we consider this request in a timely manner and get this moved on to the city council."
There are about five property and homeowners for the Kum and Go. Some have already entered into negotiations with the company, even financially benefiting if the gas station is approved.
Either way, it will have to wait.
When the next meeting rolls around, the homeowners at tonight's meeting vow to fight a potential approval.
"To take homes and turn them into a convenient store gas station is just terrible," Beacham said.
McDonald added, "I'm worried... period. I'm just worried."
The Commission hopes to reconvene on July 2 to move this issue along. Even if they deny Kum and Go's request, the company will likely appeal, still sending it on to the city council for a final decision.
That meeting will happen on July 10.
Still plenty of time for homeowners to speak their mind.
