Dunwoody referendum on parks sparks controversy - CBS46

DUNWOODY, GA (CBS ATLANTA) -

The city of Dunwoody's plan to expand and improve its park system is sparking controversy.

Voters must decide on two park bonds totaling $66 million dollars Nov. 8.

If approved, the plan would mean higher taxes and force residents of 735 apartments to relocate to make way for a sports complex and housing.

"Every time I mention this issue to somebody, it's the first thing that comes up," said Bob Lundsten, a Dunwoody activist and chief of staff for DeKalb County Commissioner Elaine Boyer. "Dunwoody is getting rid of the apartment people."

Lundsten said he is concerned that approximately 2,500 residents of Dunwoody Glen and Locata Apartments on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard will be forced to find new homes.

Dan Weber of Citizens for Dunwoody disagreed the city is out to get apartment dwellers. He said the city chose the location on Peachtree Industrial because the land was cheap.

"The primary purpose is to have more parkland," said Weber.

However, Weber did say that the two complexes in question do have a high rate of crime and that apartments are not good for property values.

"I've been told the research shows when you get to a point you're 50 percent apartments that does affect the community adversely," Weber told CBS Atlanta. "Property values, commercial and residential, start to decline.

In a news release, Dunwoody Mayor Ken Wright said, "The city regrets the need to displace residents. The city will work on a transition plan for the current residents. All current leases will be honored without the threat of early cancellation."

Some residents said they are concerned with the average $210 increase in property taxes they face if the bonds pass.

"That is the thing that has everybody stretched right now," said Ann Seals, a Dunwoody homeowner. "So that's a big decision to have to make.

The parks plan will be on the Nov. 8 ballot.

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