The Levinson, a project the City of Noblesville first announced on social media late last week, has caused a social media debate among members of the community. Noblesville’s Facebook page lit up with several hundred comments following the announcement of a $24 million public-private partnership involving an underground parking garage, apartments and retail space.
On Tuesday, area residents packed the Noblesville Common Council meeting which offered an opportunity for the public to hear from the project developer and city officials.
Following the presentation from project developer Shelby Bowen, Noblesville City Council member Mary Sue Rowland expressed her concern the project did not fit the historic downtown Noblesville theme.
Rowland
“I drove through Carmel and I saw a building just like this, and I hear there is one in Fishers that looks just like this,” said Rowland. “I don’t think that’s a good idea if that is the case.”
“I agree, I don’t think that is a good idea either,” replied Bowen. “I don’t want this building to look like anything other than the Levinson in downtown Noblesville.”
Noblesville Mayor John Ditslear interrupted the exchange between Rowland and Bowen, stating, “As far as I am concerned, there may be another one somewhere else, but we are not going to be a Carmel and we are not going to be a Fishers.”
Bowen replied to Ditslear, saying, “I’m not even thinking about those other communities. I am focused on getting it right in downtown Noblesville.”
The council provided an opportunity for public comment.
Speaking at the meeting was Noblesville Chamber of Commerce President Bob Dubois. “I have been waiting for the right time to have a comment and today is the day. I am impressed with what I have seen and what I have heard tonight.”
Noblesville resident Jeff Zeckel asked the council how Steve Holt and Brian Ayer would be compensated for their property that currently sits on the real estate to be developed. Zeckel also asked if the council would have the final decision on the proposed project.
Ayer is a council member and recused himself from Tuesday’s discussion, stating a conflict of interest.
“I have purchase agreements with both [Ayer and Holt] and they have not been provided to the council, and that is purposeful,” Bowen said. “Six months ago I negotiated an acquisition price. I have not forwarded those agreements to anybody out of respect to the private land owners.”
Councilman Greg O’Connor assured Zeckel the council will have final say on the project decision.
O’Connor
Noblesville Main Street Director Lorna Steel also spoke at the meeting in favor of the project. “We believe the Levinson is a phenomenal asset to downtown by providing parking, housing and retail space.”
Noblesville resident Mike Corbett told the council, “I agree the downtown has needed this for a long time. This is going to have a profound effect on downtown, and it is going to set a precedent that will probably set the tone for future development.”
Corbet urged the city to involve local groups such as Noblesville Main Street and the Noblesville Preservation Alliance.
“This administration has a reputation of making backroom deals and presenting projects to the public when it is too late to do anything. I hope that is not the case here. I’m gratified to hear from Mr. Cooke [Noblesville Deputy Mayor] that there will be opportunities for more public input.”
Noblesville resident Brian Holcomb stated in support of the project that “Noblesville needs change. The status quo will only push for the next generation of Millers to become Royals, Tigers, or worse – Greyhounds.” Holcomb also stated with this project Noblesville will have a historic downtown with modern amenities.
Downtown Noblesville attorney Harry Sauce said, “I think a lot of great thought has gone into this and I think a lot of great thought needs to be still going into it after tonight. I have some concern, but I am also very thrilled.”
Wiles
Following the public comment, Councilwoman Megan Wiles and Councilman Rick Taylor thanked the public for attending the meeting.
Wiles said, “I can’t tell you how many times we have council meetings and there is no one sitting in the audience. To have you all come and be a part of these conversations I think is wonderful and I would encourage you to come back and do so.”
Wiles then motioned for the council to take no action Tuesday. Wiles’ motion was approved unanimously.