A housing development rezoning on the northeast side of Fishers was given final approval Monday night by the Fishers City Council, after a spirited discussion, on a vote of 6-3.

The Courtyards of Fishers will consist of 50 single-family homes near the northwest corner of the intersection at 113th Street and Southeastern Parkway.

Councilor Brad DeReamer said the $650,000 estimated cost of each home will be $240 per square foot, which he considers high and not consistent with seniors looking to downsize.  He argued that developments presented to him in his 6 years on the council do not come under regular zoning rules, but are Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) which utilize their own zoning rules worked out with city planning staff.

DeReamer repeated an assertion he has made at previous public meetings.  “Developers are running Fishers,” DeReamer told the council.

Councilor Pete Peterson responded, saying PUDs are a good for Fishers.  He says developers and the city have worked well together, with staff pushing back with developers where needed.  “Our housing stock, it has sold so quickly that people can’t wait to move in here,” Peterson said.  “It’s just another affirmation of the things we do correctly.”

Councilor Jocelyn Vare voiced concerns about the timing of this particular development.

Councilors voting no on the rezone were DeReamer, Vare and Crystal Neumann.