Joplin builders clash over home sizes, values

JOPLIN, Mo. (AP) - Builders and some homeowners in Joplin are arguing over the size and value of homes being constructed in the part of the city destroyed by last year's tornado.

The Joplin Globe reports ((http://bit.ly/H4Ffac ) much of the disagreement is over manufactured and modular housing, and building low-income housing next to higher-priced homes.

While some people want the city to establish zoned neighborhoods based on house size and market price, others say the city shouldn't tell tornado survivors what to build.

Douglas Ferguson, general manager of JCDM Construction, is one builder delaying construction on speculative homes out of concern over what will be built next to his lots.

City Manager Mark Rohr said that the city planner and city attorney say city code allows modular housing in existing neighborhoods.

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Information from: The Joplin Globe, http://www.joplinglobe.com