By Robert Scura Santa Monica
While it’s obvious that the city of Santa Monica would be unhappy with an initiative limiting development (“Coalition wants to limit development,” page1, Jan 18). It’s also obvious they should have seen it coming.
City (Hall) has created the perception that it is ignoring the residents’ concerns on development, and perception frequently is reality. Not one person I know supports that over-scaled mess at the civic center, but planning chugs right along. Restricting resident input on low income buildings of less than 50 units makes clear the city’s continuing intended grip on the development process, which, if necessary, will be unilateral.
City (Hall) must maximize revenues to continue its egalitarian journey, and will push hard to that end. Fair enough. Just don’t be surprised when disenfranchised residents start to push back.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on January 29, 2008. Read the original PDF.