Residents raised concerns about the possible annexation of 23 square miles in northern Allen County during an open house hosted by the city Monday.
Major concerns of the proposal include the loss of tax revenue to Allen County and the schools, which could be more than $3 million. Others wanted answers about whether their utility rates would increase. But many residents at the event asked how the proposal could affect recreational activities.
Bethany and Dave Frincke were at the event. A little over a year ago they bought three acres of land outside of Fort Wayne because they wanted to have more freedom, like the ability to raise farm animals.
Jared Thompson was also at the event. He’s lived in northern Allen County his whole life and wants to hunt, shoot guns, and have bonfires on his property.
These residents are worried the city will take all that away by annexing their land into Fort Wayne.
City spokesman John Perlich says he thinks a compromise can be reached with these issues expressed by the Frinckes and Thompson.
“We’re hopeful in the next week to two weeks that we’re able to come up with some final resolution to those concerns and try to find a resolution to those concerns and try to find a middle ground,” Perlich said.
Fort Wayne’s city council is expected to receive a fiscal plan at the end of the month, and will vote on the annexation in August.
