Split APC vote, delay, for New Chauncey plans

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - The Area Plan Commission of Tippecanoe County considered a proposed neighborhood plan and map for West Lafayette's New Chauncey neighborhood Wednesday night to serve as a guide for future land use.

It's a plan that has taken almost four years to complete.

Seventeen people either spoke up or wrote a letter against the map as presented, stating that the desires of residents were outweighed by the desires of commercial interests.

"We as the neighborhood felt that the APC's yes vote was a sure thing this evening so it's definitely a welcome surprise that they didn't get the full eight votes that they needed," said resident James Britton. "Basically this buys us some time."

Only two wrote letters in favor of the plan.

There were seven "Yes" votes on the APC and four "No" votes.

Because an APC action requires eight votes, the plan will come back at next month's meeting.

"In order for the plan to be accepted by a neighborhood which is very sensitive to the growing densities in the neighborhood, look at the Wang Hall project, look at the Muinzer project, there really needs to be a buy-in from the citizens of the New Chauncey neighborhood," said Steering Committee Member Peter Bunder.

A representative spoke on behalf of Mayor John Dennis who said Dennis supports the plan which was presented Wednesday.