On Wednesday, July 18th, 2012, the Area Plan Commission will be voting on whether or not to keep 1.3 acres of dense woods behind Slater Hill…or build an apartment complex on the plot, which has been characterized as an “undesirable building lot” in the past due to the rough terrain.

Local residents are concerned that an apartment complex in the area will lead to drainage issues, destroy valuable green space and wildlife habitat, and will destroy not only a wildlife corridor, but also a 2-plot cemetery.

This park-quality natural area has been dense woods for 43 years, with old and established trees measuring from 12 inches in diameter to over 40 inches in diameter.  This area serves as a drainage area for the golf course, habitat for native species, and one of the last remaining dense forests in a developed area for the Greater Lafayette Community.  While the Commission has looked into drainage issues, there is still concern on the part of many West Lafayette residents that destroying a natural system that holds water will lead to flooding and other drainage issues.

The Area Plan Commission will accept comments from concerned citizens at the meeting on Wednesday, July 18th at 7:00 pm in the City-County Building.  This development is item 7 on the agenda.

More information on the proposal can be found on the county website (hyperlink to https://www.tippecanoe.in.gov/egov/docs/849331339686013.pdf)