KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -
People are voicing their concern over a decision that could put a motel in a quiet residential neighborhood.
Neighbors in the Volker area of Kansas City say if the eight-plex structure is built, it will change the neighborhood for the worse.
Those people were initially pleased that the condemned house at 3616 Bell Street was scheduled for renovation, because they were told that it would be rebuilt into a carriage house.
"Everybody was naturally excited about that. Then in a week to two weeks, it was knocked down, and we are furious," Linda McClelland said.
Residents say investors who purchased the property are planning to build a motel on the lot that would house as many as eight families, something, they say, the neighborhood is not prepared for.
"I'm really concerned that it'll cause a stampede. I'm afraid the developers will take over the neighborhood and people will start to flee," Pat McClelland said.
Fourth district councilman Jim Glover, who represents the area, said that he is not pleased with the developers' plans to build a motel in that location. However, current zoning laws may permit it.
The building request is now being reviewed to see if it meets current city codes. Neighbors say they'll continue speaking out against the project.
It could be months before a decision is made, and Glover said he will propose legislation to change current zoning codes later this week.
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