Lexington Council Rejects Mobile Home Park Expansion Amid Concerns for Historic Black Neighborhood

Lexington, Kentucky — The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council voted decisively against the expansion of a mobile home park on Price Road, rejecting a proposed zone change that would have converted 16 acres from single-family residential to mobile home zoning. The council’s vote of 10 to 1 took place during a session on Tuesday, where more than 20 community members raised concerns about the implications of the development on the adjoining St. Martin’s Village, a historic Black suburb.

The proposed expansion by Suburban Pointe would have allowed the addition of 52 new mobile home lots, increasing the community’s overall size to over 600 lots. Plans included amenities such as athletic courts, a community center, and a dog park. In August, the Urban County Planning Commission had recommended approval of the zone change, but it suggested restricting access to St. Martin’s Village streets, which was a point of contention raised by residents.

Council members expressed the pressing need for affordable housing but acknowledged the residents’ valid concerns about preserving the integrity and history of St. Martin’s Village. Councilwoman Jennifer Reynolds stated, “We need more affordable housing. We have said that over and over,” while also noting the need to protect the historic neighborhood. Councilwoman Tayna Fogle emphasized the threat of development to Black neighborhoods, asserting “Our Black neighborhoods are under attack.”

Resident feedback during the hearing indicated strong opposition to the plan, with concerns focused on traffic, safety, and the desire for stability within the community. Michelle Davis, president of the St. Martin’s Village Neighborhood Association, expressed her commitment to maintaining the neighborhood’s history: “It has been a safe place to live and raise a family.” Meanwhile, longtime resident Ann Greene voiced worries about congestion, noting, “Our streets are narrow as it is.”

Opponents argued that mobile homes, while economically accessible, do not equate to true homeownership as residents would not own the land but rather pay rent to park owners. Lawyer Bruce Simpson, representing St. Martin’s Village, critiqued the proposed zone change, stating that it contradicts the city’s comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing neighborhoods. Simpson underscored the historical context of St. Martin’s Village, founded in 1955 when Black residents faced significant housing discrimination.

The council, having deliberated for over four hours, ultimately opted against the expansion, with the majority believing that the historical significance of St. Martin’s Village warranted protection. Those who voted against the change included several council members, while only one, Fred Brown, supported the proposed expansion.

The developers of Suburban Pointe could appeal the council’s decision in the Fayette Circuit Court, but as of now, no steps have been taken towards an appeal.