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Thomas Hoffman <br />From: Rappl <r3297066@gmail.com> <br />Sent: Wednesday, January 15, 2025 2:43 PM <br />To: Thomas Hoffman <br />Subject: North Oaks Mixed Use Development EAW - Concerns Regarding Proposed <br />Development on Centerville Road through County J <br />You don't often get email from r3297066@gmail.com. Learn why this is important <br />Caution: This email originated outside our organization; please use <br />caution. <br />Dear Mr. Thomas <br />am writing to express my concerns regarding the proposed development from Centerville Road through <br />County J. Some of the key issues with this development include its impact on the preserved areas within <br />the North Oaks community, its effects on wildlife, and the increased light and noise pollution in the area. <br />Development has significant impacts on local ecosystems, often leading to a range of environmental <br />challenges: <br />Habitat Loss: Development can lead to local extinction and reduced biodiversity. <br />Fragmentation: When natural areas are divided into smaller, isolated patches, it disrupts the <br />continuity of habitats. This fragmentation can make it difficult for species to find food, mates, and <br />shelter, leading to population declines. <br />Pollution: Runoff from developed areas can carry chemicals and heavy metals into water bodies, <br />harming aquatic life. <br />Hydrological Changes: Development can alter natural water flows, leading to increased <br />stormwater runoff and changes in water quality and quantity. This can affect both terrestrial and <br />aquatic ecosystems. <br />Climate Change: Urban heat islands —areas that are significantly warmer than their rural <br />surroundings —can alter local climate patterns and affect species sensitive to temperature <br />changes. <br />Invasive Species: Development can facilitate the spread of invasive species, which can <br />outcompete native species and further reduce biodiversity. <br />These challenges underscore the importance of reconsidering the proposed development on County J <br />and Centerville. <br />The preserved area encompasses various wetlands, forests, and prairies, all of which play a crucial role <br />in maintaining the health and stability of the local ecosystem. These habitats provide essential breeding <br />grounds for migratory birds, butterflies, and other pollinators, thereby ensuring that our community <br />remains a vibrant and diverse ecosystem. The area proposed for development is part of a 220-acre <br />agricultural easement that is intended to be perpetually protected from development. This easement <br />serves as a buffer zone for wildlife and the conserved area. <br />