On December 19th, the Planning Board will consider Agenda Item #10 Land Development Regulations Amendment proposed by developer’s Attorney Barton Smith. This radical expansion of commercial and residential development, under the cloak of work force housing, calls for some of the following:

1) A city–wide maximum height increase from forty feet (40’), to a staggering sixty feet (60’) and that’s without considering additional levels for parking! This is despite our City Charter that specifically requires a voter referendum for such height changes.

2) A city-wide major reduction in parking requirements.

3) Elimination of public hearings whereby the public would lack a legal remedy to challenge anything administratively approved.

4) A city-wide five feet (5’) set back on all individual construction.

5) Despite our already over-strained infrastructure it substantially increases project densities.

6) Allows for waver of all variances including hardship provisions, landscaping requirements, open space ratios, impervious surface ratios, buffers etc.

7) Eliminates Art in Public Places.

Smith is proposing to expand the Live Local Act (aka LLA) and in the process gutting our city codes that protect and preserve the character of our neighborhoods, and the quality of our lives.Smith is proposing to expand the Live Local Act (aka LLA) and in the process gutting our city codes that protect and preserve the character of our neighborhoods, and the quality of our lives.

These proposed changes, run contrary to State Standards incorporated within the Area of Critical State Concern Section 29-36.003 (9) “Principles for Guiding Development” and while they will most certainly benefit sponsor Meisel (owner of the ultra-modern H20 Hotel) with his proposed similar redevelopment of his (Southwind Motel), it comes at our detriment, forever changing the residential charm and unique character of our City.

Smith’s unnecessary proposed changes, under the cloak of work-force housing, will in fact have a negative effect on the production of Work Force Housing within our City. In the words of the City’s, well-respected Senior Planner, the changes as proposed by the applicant “will reduce, not increase the development of Workforce Housing units.”

These proposals are a developer’s dream and a community’s worst nightmare. Let’s preserve our dwindling slice of paradise. Email or speak to the City Commissioners and let your voice be heard!

[livemarket market_name="KONK Life LiveMarket" limit=3 category=“” show_signup=0 show_more=0]