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March 13, 2013

Why high density in Norman?

The Norman Transcript

NORMAN — Editor, The Transcript:

I appreciated Stephen Ellis’ letter on high-density development last week. It was a good report on our progress so far.

One point the reader might want to consider, however, is that a very vital initial step in the process has been skipped. Instead of discussions based on how to do high density (HD), we should first focus whether we actually want or need high density here.

Norman is still classified as one of the top 100 “small towns” in the country. If we allow these HD developments (especially in core Norman), we will destroy the very essence that makes Norman so unique.

In his letter, Mr. Ellis noted that we need to clarify our values in terms of neighborhood integrity but bemoaned the fact that it “has been obscured, unfortunately, because we are distracted by what developers want.”

We know what the developers want. What do the rest of us value as citizens? Personally, I value our present historic neighborhoods and the Campus Corner culture.

I see no value in negotiating away these assets. I understand that the development community can make a profit with HD, but the rest of us will be the losers. If you agree, contact your city council representative and share your views. The time is now.

Stephen Seabourn

Norman

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