Latest News
Last Updated: Monday, March 8th. 6pm
Last Updated: Monday, March 8th 6pm
Today we learned that Monte Hewett Homes has formally notified the North Buckhead Civic Association (NBCA) that it is withdrawing its application to rezone the parcel at No. 1 Emma Lane. The sales contract has been sold to another developer who plans, we believe, to develop the property under its existing R-3 zoning.
Our group has grown to nearly 300 members, and we thank each and every one of you who wrote emails, made phone calls, posted on social media and reached out to others to share concerns about this proposed development.
THIS IS PROOF OF THE POWER
OF AN ENGAGED COMMUNITY!
For all of us who were concerned that the planned re-zoning to a higher-density, clustered home development would set a dangerous precedent, and be wholly out of character with the surrounding neighborhood, this is tremendously positive news!
We know little about the new developer or their plans, but we are hopeful that there will be an opportunity to constructively engage with them and facilitate the best possible outcomes for our neighborhood.
NBCA has indicated it “will seek to engage with any new developer to work toward a quality development that protects the character of the neighborhood and also protects a substantial amount of greenspace for the benefit of the adjoining Blue Heron Nature Preserve.”
We wholeheartedly support that approach and NBCA’s objectives, and we look forward to working with NBCA leaders, and other stakeholders, in the days to come.
We will continue to keep you informed as we learn more about emerging plans for the development of this property. Thank you again for your support of our cause!
Please provide comments or thoughts in your own words.
We have received the following statements from Blue Heron and The Conservation Fund.
Dear friends and neighbors of the Blue Heron Nature Preserve,
In light of recent presentations and assertions regarding the rezoning application of 1 Emma Lane, I want to clarify BHNP’s involvement and position with the proposal before the community. The Blue Heron Nature Preserve will not take a position in favor of or against the rezoning application, we are neutral to the question of it.
The preserve’s board and Executive Director are not in any negotiation or agreement with any of the involved parties to influence a decision in the proposal. We have been informed of the interest of the Conservation Fund and their dialog with the developer about their proposal and a possible acquisition for the city.
We are not aware of any guaranteed funding that has been allocated to acquire property to be added to the preserve – a City of Atlanta park – and we have received no assurances that funding is available. Blue Heron Nature Preserve has not allocated resources to fund land acquisition.
As an organization rooted in connecting the public to nature through conservation, environmental education, and nature-themed arts, we encourage open and honest dialogue among stakeholders about the future of this environmentally sensitive property.
Thank you for your continuing interest and support of our treasured green space.
Yours,
Norris Broyles, Board President, BHNP
Dear Sally,
As we discussed last week, I want to make sure I clarify The Conservation Fund’s potential role in relation to park acquisition and the 1 Emma Lane property. I’ve been aware of the 1 Emma Lane property for about 7 years, as a potential addition to the Blue Heron Nature Preserve – particularly because of the size of the property, the important buffer to the wetlands and stream and the critical connection for a trail between different parts of the Preserve. I’ve had multiple conversations with the Nicholson family, including when they decided to sell the property last year. Unfortunately, given the price of the overall property and limited funds for City park acquisition, and the complications of the large house, there was no realistic scenario that would allow purchase of the entire tract for the preserve.
The alternative to purchase of the whole is acquisition of a portion to ensure the critical protection and connection noted above. In the event a portion of the property is developed, we would be interested in potentially acquiring any remainder of the property that could significantly add to the Blue Heron Nature Preserve. However, we do not get involved in zoning decisions or positions in any shape or form. I’ve been very clear that we would only consider a potential acquisition after any zoning decision has been made and only if there is a distinct property or parcel left to be acquired. In addition, we act primarily as an acquisition partner of the City Parks Department, so we also would not move forward on any acquisition without approval and support of the Parks Department. That consideration and decision would also have to take place after any final zoning decision.
I’m glad to discuss in more detail. Let me know if you have any additional questions.
Stacy Funderburke
Regional Counsel & Georgia and Alabama Associate State Director
The Conservation Fund