Apartment complex nears approval

The Fairfield City Council voted 4-2 Monday to pass the second reading of an ordinance to rezone the former Nelson Nursing Home on West Taylor Avenue from R-2 to R-3.

The change would allow the building?s developer, John Kuster, to turn it into an apartment complex capable of housing 19 units.

The four yes votes came from Michael Halley, Tony Hammes, Martha Rasmussen and Jessica Ledger-Kalen. Daryn Hamilton and John Revolinski voted against the motion. Connie Boyer was absent.

The council heard comments from several neighbors who opposed the change for a variety of reasons such as increased traffic on the street, the effect of the apartment complex on surrounding property values and the anticipated increase in outdoor noise and activity.