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Proposed McDonald’s Drive-Through Sparks Controversy in Meridian
A planned drive-through McDonald’s in South Meridian is generating significant opposition from local residents, who are expressing their concerns about its potential impact on the community.
The new McDonald’s is set to occupy an acre-sized lot adjacent to the recently established Albertsons supermarket at the intersection of South Amity and West Eagle roads. This location is part of the larger Firenze Plaza shopping and business center, which includes various new and upcoming businesses, but it is uniquely proposed to include a drive-through facility. This aspect has raised apprehensions about traffic management and congestion among both residents and city officials.
Community members have taken to emailing City Hall to articulate their worries regarding the effects of this national fast-food franchise on the local environment, property values, and even potential odors from cooking. Briana Hurst, a homeowner in the neighboring Tuscany community, shared her concerns, stating, “I am sure my property value will go down if someone can smell fries every time they step outside.”
Another resident, Kellie Elliott, characterized McDonald’s as “bottom of the barrel” concerning fast-food quality and nutrition. She implored city officials, “Please, for the love of health, kids, community, reject this!”
Despite the concerns raised, the Planning and Zoning Commission’s focus is not on whether a McDonald’s should be part of the development—after all, the site’s zoning allows it—but rather on the feasibility of including a drive-through option at this location.
During a public hearing scheduled for October 17, the commission will evaluate traffic flow and potential nuisances such as noise and headlight glare for residents nearby, according to Caleb Hood, the city’s deputy director of community development. He indicated that any recommendation for approval would likely come with specific conditions related to site design, including requirements for landscaping and lighting.
Addressing health-related concerns, Hood noted, “We’ll be reviewing their menu board and its location and speakers, but we won’t be actually looking at the food they’re getting served.”
If approved, the development will be led by Darryl Browman of Browman Development, based in Walnut Creek, California, as per Hood’s statements.
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Source
www.yahoo.com