The Coopertown Board of Mayor and Aldermen (BOMA) voted Monday evening to approve the first reading of a rezoning request for 15 acres on Woods Road, changing the classification from agricultural to rural residential. While the firs reading of the measure passed with a majority, it did so amid lingering concerns from citizens and at least one alderman over the pace of growth and the town’s current development review process.
A Second Attempt with Limited Revisions
This was the second time the request came before the board, having failed last month. When asked by Alderman Rundle what had changed in the updated submission, the developer candidly stated that the plan had remained essentially the same. Nonetheless, Alderman Mason, who had previously voted against the rezoning, motioned for approval, which was seconded and passed with support from Alderman Anderson and Mayor Smith. Alderman Rundle voted no, and Alderman Hayes—who had opposed it last time—was not present at the meeting.
The developer emphasized that the rezoning would only allow for eight single-family homes, a point that may have contributed to its eventual approval.
Citizens Voice Concerns
Development is a choice. It need not be thrust upon us.
Residents from the Woods Road area once again expressed concern during the public comment period, noting that they had chosen Coopertown for its quiet, rural character and were worried about the cumulative effects of increased traffic, drainage issues, and the loss of open space. These concerns echoed familiar themes heard in other recent meetings, as the town continues to navigate the pressures of development while striving to retain its rural charm.
Rundle: Oversight Process Needs Reform
Alderman Rundle offered a detailed and thoughtful critique of the town’s current rezoning and planning processes. While she was clear that she did not fault developers for seeking to use their land profitably, she emphasized that elected officials have a responsibility to consider long-term impacts and ensure transparency.
“As a governing body… we are given proposed / preliminary concepts. Then we decide based on that preliminary summation whether to rezone. Yet the developer can change the plan—to something that is not what we heard or agreed upon when we granted rezoning,” she said.
She questioned why the board is not allowed to review and approve final master plans before development proceeds and suggested that rezoning decisions be made conditionally, with BOMA retaining the ability to approve final plans.
“We cannot continue to approve growth in this manner,” she said. “I don’t want to be part of an administration that isn’t applying foresight.”
Rundle called attention to the broader pattern of growth, noting that projects like the 300-home Derby Meadows development—approved two administrations ago—have yet to fully materialize, and their long-term impacts on traffic, schools, and emergency services remain uncertain.
“The ordinance uses the word ‘shall contain’—yet some of the required elements were missing,”
Rundle criticized the Planning Commission’s handling of a recent mixed-use request, stating that it failed to meet the clear requirements outlined in the town’s own ordinance, calling it a disservice to both citizens and the governing body. She questioned whether key departments like police, fire, or streets had even been consulted and expressed frustration that the commission proceeded despite the developer’s own vague description of the project’s intended use. “Really? And you want a governing body to rezone with an ambiguous intent?” she asked, urging the board to take greater care and demand clarity before moving forward with such impactful decisions.
She concluded her remarks by formally requesting that the board consider updating its ordinance to give BOMA dual-approval authority—one for preliminary plans and another for final master plans—particularly for projects involving commercial, mixed-use, or high-density development.
Mayor Smith responded to Alderman Rundle’s concerns with appreciation and openness, acknowledging the importance of her perspective. He agreed that some aspects of the zoning and development process are new or evolving for the town and expressed a desire to approach these matters thoughtfully. Smith welcomed Rundle’s offer to draft a framework for improving oversight and encouraged further group discussion, signaling a willingness to revisit the ordinance and ensure future decisions are made with greater care and clarity.
Other Zoning Requests and Traffic Infrastructure
Another rezoning proposal brought before the board failed to gain traction, dying for lack of a second to Alderman Mason’s motion for approval.
The mayor announced that a new stoplight would be installed at the intersection of Highway 49 and Old Coopertown Road, based on communication with State Representative Sabi Kumar. Alderman Anderson raised a related concern about the current lack of turn arrows at Highway 49 and Mt. Zion, noting long delays during peak times. He expressed hope that the new light would be better optimized for traffic flow.
School Zone Speed Cameras Proposed
Mayor Smith and Police Chief Haley introduced the idea of installing speed cameras and license plate readers (LPRs) in the school zone. The technology, which would come at no cost to the city, could help address concerns about speeding in the area, particularly during school hours. A recent traffic study showed over 24,000 cars during the study period, with 500 traveling more than 11 mph over the limit—94 of those going more than 24 mph over.
The cameras would issue civil fines of up to $50 and only operate during active school zone hours. LPRs, which would remain active 24/7 year-round, could also assist police by identifying stolen vehicles or aiding investigations. The board expressed general interest in pursuing the idea for school zones only.
Water Service and Infrastructure
Mayor Smith also addressed a potential water service issue: the City of Springfield recently passed an ordinance that it will no longer extend water service to customers outside city limits after May 1 of next year. He shared that discussions are underway with East Montgomery Utility District and other regional stakeholders to explore alternatives, including a potential water cooperative with the county. He was clear that this is not a water shortage, but rather a shift in Springfield’s service model to serving thier city and their growth plan.
Guardrail Repairs and Citizen Responsibility
The street department shared updates on recent repairs to a guardrail and other infrastructure, reminding residents to report accidents when they happen. In several recent cases, the city bore the cost of repairs because even though a citizen saw the event, no report was made, and insurance information was not available.
Final Thoughts
The meeting reflected the ongoing tension in Coopertown between growth and preservation. While the Woods Road rezoning first reading was approved, the process surrounding it raised important questions about transparency, accountability, and long-term planning.
Alderman Rundle’s remarks served as a call to re-evaluate how the town manages development—emphasizing the need for policies that ensure both responsible growth and trust in local government. Her request to revisit the zoning ordinance to include a two-step approval process may pave the way for a more deliberate and collaborative approach going forward.
Mayor Smith expressed support for further discussion, noting that some of these challenges are new to the town and that thoughtful planning will be essential in the months ahead.
As Coopertown continues to grow, balancing the needs of current residents with the pressures of development will require more than just votes—it will require vision.
