HomeMy WebLinkAboutKrueger, Fred - Letter of Opposition_Springhouse Townes_06.30.25June 28, 2025
City Council Meeting 7.7.2025
Attn: Caldwell Mayor & City Council Members,
My name is Fred Kruger, and I reside at 16890 Jerica Ct., Caldwell, ID. I’m writing to
express my concerns about the proposed development at 16767 Midway Rd., which
borders my property.
According to the proposed plat map, the development includes 11 buildings, each with a
mid-off point of 22.5 ft. to 23.5 ft., located just 15 feet from my property line. It’s
important to consider how the City defines building height. The City measures height
from the midpoint of a pitched roof, meaning the actual peak of the roof can be several
feet taller. In practical terms, this means these structures could appear significantly
taller than stated.
This has a direct impact on my property. A peak of these heights so close to my
property line will block sunlight, compromises privacy, and introduces massing that is
completely out of scale with the surrounding single-story detached homes. Obstruction
of scenic views is also a major concern, as the proposed buildings would dominate
sightlines that have long been open and unobstructed. One of these buildings runs 3/4
the distance of my property line and extends 45 feet along my neighbor’s property line,
amplifying the visual and spatial impact. This also raises concerns about the sense of
overcrowding and loss of openness in our neighborhood. This sense of overcrowding
undermines the character and livability of the area, making it feel more congested and
less residential in nature.
Additionally, the fire risk associated with such tightly spaced multi-story townhomes
cannot be ignored. The closer proximity, combined with the increased height, makes
firefighting more difficult and the potential for fire spread greater.
I ask the Council to carefully reconsider the approval of this proposal in its current form.
I recommend requiring greater setbacks, reduced roof heights, or step-down designs at
the perimeter to better integrate the development with existing low-density homes.
Thank you for your consideration and for taking into account the concerns of long-time
residents.
Sincerely,
Fred Kruger