Item 5: Public Hearing on Ordinance Establishing Chambers Special Area Zone

Home Browse Search

wanted to build a solid fence on that boundary right in front of one of Frank's view windows. This could have been a problem for Frank, but the two discussed the issue, and agreed on a compromise to a solid tall fence. Frank agreed to landscape his yard in way that softened the boundary and also provided the privacy Steve wanted. Now, several years later, the plants have grown, Steve has his privacy and Frank is very happy with the dappled light and views of greenery through his window. What could have been a loss for both owners was turned into a benefit through discussion, compromise, and a shared desired to make improvements to the larger space around both homes. A second illustration of neighbors working out changes for the better is that of Elizabeth, Julie, and Roger, all owners of houses along a somewhat busy street. Elizabeth's house was designed to be very close to the street, and when it was built it stood out relative to the adjacent houses (including Julie's house). But over the years, Julie built a tall fence on her property line, and Roger, on the other side of Elizabeth, planted a tall hedge along the sidewalk. So now, Elizabeth's house seems quite comfortable in its place, set back a bit from Julie's fence and Roger's hedge. The effective "building line" has moved forward toward the street, giving that block a very pleasant street edge, although somewhat different then the same street edge of the past. Again, the influence of one house on another contributed toward the gradual evolution and improvement of the neighborhood over time, because all three owners were interested in changing their homes in ways that complemented each other, and contributed to a more successful whole. .