- April 18, 2024
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In last week’s diatribe against STOP!, Gabriel Hament argued that 1) public input has never changed or stopped projects, and 2) public input is bad because it is designed and intended to stop projects. You can’t have it both ways, and what is more, both statements are wrong. We are now deep into the election season, and the facts are taking a beating.
STOP! has argued that we need a public hearing process for new buildings because it increases the likelihood that new buildings will be compatible with existing neighbors and infrastructure. The primary purpose of public hearings is simply to get all the facts on the table. Where is the trash located, and is it adequately screened? Where are the entrance and exit to the project located, and are there arguments for a different, better location? Will the lights shine in my kid’s bedroom? How loud is the generator, and what are the city standards for these items?
Sarasota is a built-out city. New projects are infill, and they have neighbors already living next door. Furthermore, every parcel is unique and has special circumstances that need to be taken into consideration.
It is extremely rare for projects to be turned down. In more than a decade, there have been only a handful. Far more common are cases where the project was modified to make it more compatible.
There is one statement Mr. Hament makes on which we can all agree: Certain aspects of the code need to be changed. If the code is consistently creating buildings that the community does not like, it should be altered. This is why STOP! has proposed that the city adopt standards for wide sidewalks. Our current code is too often creating narrow unpleasant sidewalks that are not pedestrian friendly, as the city claims it wishes to be. Let’s fix this.
And let’s return to a public approval process for large, new buildings. STOP! is not anti-growth. STOP! is working for quality development that will enhance our quality of life.
Kate Lowman
STOP! Steering Committee
Sarasota
