Since when do we trust that developers have the best interests of residents? Their business is to maximize profits at all costs. The size of the project has nothing to do with the welfare of the local residents or Webster Groves, but it is purely about economics. These residents do not live in immediately impacted areas and have an "it's wonderful as long as it's not in my backyard" mentality. This also goes for the mayor and the city council. We'll bet that they would feel markedly different if they were directly impacted.
A great vibe is already starting to take place along Lockwood Ave. Another project could be beneficial to Old Webster and could be nice if done right. It's the enormity of the project that brings in the detrimental elements. First of all, do we want to be like Kirkwood? What about the individuality of Webster.
But let's take a look at downtown Kirkwood. Almost all of the buildings are between 1-3 stories tall. Won't there be a much better vibe if our project was of minimal disruption to the surrounding community? Buildings that are consistent in size and style with the rest of Old Webster (between 1-3 stories) would maximize the positive impact and minimize negative effects. It would also preserve the historical integrity of the area.