Possible Rezoning in Galesburg Neighborhood - CBS4 - WHBF Quad Cities, IL-IA News Weather Sports

Possible Rezoning in Galesburg Neighborhood

By Natalie Zarowny
nzarowny@cbs4qc.com

Tom Axline lives off North Seminary Street in Galesburg with his family.

The neighborhood is quiet, and the loudest noise comes from kids in gym class at a nearby high school.

But that could all change soon.

"We're just, not really happy about the whole situation," said Azline.

The city recently received an application from a private developer to rezone about 27 acres near North Seminary Street.

What's now cornfields could become a bustling residential and commercial area.

"We're encouraged by the interest of the developer in Galesburg and in this area; we're always interested in job creation and investment," said Todd Thompson, Galesburg City Manager.

The problem is, Axline and his neighbors just don't want it in their neighborhood.

"We're just concerned about our property values, and the noise, and the safety of our children," said Axline.

City officials said they haven't taken one side or the other yet, but they are interested in a discussion.

"We're very interested in the input from the citizens in the surrounding area," said Thompson.

As for neighbors, they're just hoping to find a solution that will keep their quiet neighborhood.... quiet.

"There isn't anybody, including me, that doesn't want Galesburg to grow, but let's grow in the right ways," said Jean Stull, another Galesburg resident.