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intended use, declaring their plan to host weddings, graduations, and <br /> other events. This departure from the original residential application has <br /> created widespread confusion and undermines the integrity of the process <br /> and the faith in which the background report was approved. <br /> The public has been given no opportunity to review these changes in a <br /> timely manner. The latest revisions were filed on Wednesday <br /> afternoon, November 13, 2024, just two business days before the <br /> deadline for written testimony. This late submission has deprived <br /> concerned citizens, including legal counsel, of the opportunity to thoroughly <br /> review and respond to these substantial changes. Given the evolving nature <br /> of this project, it would be irresponsible for the Planning Commission to <br /> move forward without first providing the community with adequate time to <br /> review these modifications. <br /> Shifting Use of the Property — A Complete Departure from <br /> Original Intent <br /> One of the most troubling aspects of this proposal is the dramatic <br /> shift in the intended use of the property. When the applicant first <br /> submitted their request for a Special Management Area (SMA) permit in <br /> December 2020, they stated that this development was an opportunity <br /> to revitalize a long-neglected property for residential use. <br /> The background report from May 2021 specifically outlined that the <br /> project was to consist of six condominium units—units intended <br /> for residential occupancy by local families, as per the zoning <br /> requirements of the area. <br /> However, by August 2021, the applicant began shifting their focus, stating <br /> that the property would be used to host events such as weddings, class <br /> reunions, and graduations. This is a fundamental change in the <br /> intended use of the property, one that completely undermines the <br /> original purpose for which the SMA permit was requested. The applicant's <br /> statements in public forums, including social media posts and public <br /> comments, further emphasize that they do not intend to sell the property <br /> but rather plan to operate it as an event center. This dramatic shift in use <br /> —from residential development to an event venue—was never part of the <br /> original application and runs contrary to the community's understanding of <br /> what this project was supposed to be. <br /> This change in use is deeply concerning for several reasons. First, it <br /> is inconsistent with the zoning for the area, which is intended to <br />