PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Russ Begley knows it’s a fight he probably won’t win, but he knows he has to try.
“Somebody’s got to do it,” he said.
A 212-acre lot in Violet Township that was purchased by Pickerington back in 2018 could soon be developed into residential and commercial land.
In the last two weeks it’s been approved by both the city’s Planning and Zoning Committee and the City Service Committee.
Begley worries about traffic, population density and taxes. He’s retired and works two jobs to supplement his income.
He says in the last eight years due to a booming population his rent has gone up 30% while his income has gone down by 40%.
“In that aspect, it really puts a pinch on a lot of people,” he said. “Eventually raising property taxes would affect me and it’s a concern. It should be a concern for all residents.”
With new development, he worries for new inflation.
Last week 10TV talked with Kelly McClellan and his wife Lori Kelly whose property is just next door to the proposed development just off Pickerington Road. They and Begley say opposition, while voiced, is not being heard by the city.
“A lot of Pickerington residents seem to think it’s pretty much in stone,” Begley said.
Despite many emails, phone calls and a visit to City Hall, Monday, Mayor Lee Gray and City Manager Greg Butcher have not responded to 10TV’s request for an interview.
Butcher directed Reporter Bryant Somerville to the city’s comprehensive plan, which according to its website, highlights the proposed area in Fairfield County and mentions logistics and light industry.
“And, I just felt our voices aren’t being heard,” Begley said.
Begley now plans on starting a resident coalition hoping to keep more people informed and involved, while hoping to have a seat at the table to at least have a more thorough conversation.