News Summary
The Starkville Board of Aldermen voted 5-2 to approve a variance for the construction of condominiums near Hancock Circle, prompting a range of reactions from the community. Supporters argue the condos will improve local land use while opponents express concerns over increased noise and disruption. The project will feature eight condos and a mixed-use building, but residents are wary about the proximity to existing homes and potential disturbances from tenants.
Starkville Aldermen Greenlight Condo Development Amid Mixed Reactions
In a recent meeting, Starkville’s Board of Aldermen approved a variance by a 5-2 vote that paves the way for the construction of condominiums in closer proximity to homes around Hancock Circle. This decision has stirred a mix of excitement and concern among residents as the city moves forward with plans to develop the property located just behind some familiar spots: the Quality Inn and Burger King.
The New Condos: Are They a Blessing or a Curse?
Supporters of the variance see this project as a positive change, arguing that developing these condos is a much better use for the land than its current state. They believe that the new buildings might actually help shield existing homes from the noises associated with the busy highway and the nearby hotel. The city’s codes typically necessitate a 50-foot setback from residential properties, but this recent approval allows condos to be built just 20 feet from the homes on Hancock Circle. This raises eyebrows, especially from residents who enjoy the quiet of suburban living.
Project Plans and Concerns
As it stands, developers Mark Shapley and Jason Ishee plan to construct eight condos accompanied by a parking lot that will sit only five feet from their southern neighbors’ properties. Additionally, the development will include a small mixed-use building, which could feature retail or office space on the ground floor, with apartments above. This mixture of housing and commercial space certainly offers a new twist for the Starkville community.
Many neighbors, however, aren’t buying into the excitement. They voiced their concerns about potential disruptions from future tenants, particularly given their previous experiences with guests at the nearby hotel. Reports from Police Chief Mark Ballard highlighted a concerning volume of calls relating to disturbances at the Quality Inn, further fueling worries that the new condos might attract similar challenges. Prior to the meeting, City Planner Daniel Havelin was already in receipt of two requests for information and one call expressing opposition to the proposed variance, signaling that the issues aren’t just black and white for residents.
Local Voices – A Range of Opinions
One resident, Sandra Edmonds, expressed her frustration regarding the close proximity of the condos, pointing out that the same building regulations wouldn’t apply to her if she attempted to build a new home there. It’s evident that many feel the decision showcases a double standard in procedure. The design of the property is indeed unusual, stretching eastward from South Montgomery Street in a staggered fashion. If the layout were flipped to accommodate the mandated setback, it could risk losing as many as four to six units and disrupt the intended buffer between condominiums and the parking lot.
As for the condo project’s future, developer Shapley reassured the board that the units will be sold rather than rented, with contracts explicitly prohibiting renters. Additionally, this development won’t have any patios or walkways in the rear; it will feature just windows and a flat wall, ensuring a degree of privacy for the neighboring homes. An added six-foot fence and landscaping will also help to maintain a sense of separation between the new condos and existing houses, though it’s unclear if this will truly soften the impact for residents feeling uneasy about their new, closer neighbors.
What’s Next for Starkville?
Before construction can commence, certain building permits will be required. While the aldermen’s approval is a crucial step forward, the project will still need to comply with local building codes. Mayor Lynn Spruill did mention that the project is now clear to proceed with the variance in mind, leaving many residents wondering how much more discussion and negotiation might still be necessary between developers and the community.
As Starkville marches ahead with its urban developments, the community buzz continues. It remains to be seen how this new condo project will ultimately impact the loved Hancock Circle and whether residents can find common ground with developers moving forward. Stay tuned for more updates as we follow this unfolding story in our vibrant Starkville community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Exciting Developments Loom for Starkville as City Considers New Partnerships and Condo Project
Castleberry’s Journey: From Concrete to Condominiums Shapes Mississippi’s Development Landscape
Additional Resources
- C Dispatch: Condos Get Green Light for Construction Closer to Hancock Circle Homes
- Wikipedia: Zoning
- C Dispatch: Starkville Mum on Public Private Business Deal
- Google Search: Starkville public private business deals
- C Dispatch: $10M Retail Condo Development Planned for Russell St.
- Google Scholar: Urban Development Starkville
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Planning
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
