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ajm3s writes:

Lets review: Old Marco is zoned mixed use (multifamily and commercial), and South Beach free parking is zoned multifamily residential.

How can one be confident with city management and planning in the future if the city cannot adequately evaluate and prioritize the concerns which plague this island.

We know we have parking issues which is related to swale specifications (ROW standards). And on the horizon is Market Center redevelopment using density transfer to increase density.

Today, we have unresolved ROW specifications because the city refused to listen and address public comment who raise legitimate issues.

If you really want "a small town" atmosphere one cannot accept density transfer as a viable option to consider given the parking issues in areas outside of Market Center. And you MUST have a ROW standard that addresses the multiple uses of swales beyond its primary role in stormwater management.

The key is to manage existing facilities, NOT increase density or expand services. For the record, most "small towns" in commercial areas allow parking in areas identified as ROW.

Perhaps it is me, but I believe the leadership on council and this city along with proponents are misguided. I will defend the Planning Board to the extent that the city does NOT adhere to the simple request made by the board. Remember, earlier this year, Mr. Lazarus requested that the city review and sit down with those who raised public concerns regarding ROW's. Not a single effort made by Mr. Pinter or the City Manager.

So how can one be confident in long term planning efforts? How can one conclude that by increasing density in areas identified for development as well as redevelopment, that it will resolve the parking issues that constantly plague this island in season?

So folks, why is the city considering density transfer, when we have parking issues? So we can park more cars in Market Center?

Focus! Because leadership is myopic and misguided!

Example: Mr. Magel is cheer leading the proposal for a November referendum to consider subsidizing a 24 hr urgent care center. I hear a clamoring for a resolution to the parking issues, not the subsidization of a 24 hr care center. And don't forget the originally proposed $5MM Community Center that is now a downsized $3.5MM center with a 1.5MM gymnasium adder. Did anyone do the math? What changed?

For comparison, the dog park folks raised all the money for a $50K dog park while the proponents of a super-sized Community Center are searching for the "big" donation. I guess the future "public" support, will be a private company, NOT a summation of donations from individual citizens. So again, I ask where is the support from the citizens? Or is it again, city sponsored sales hype and misguided pursuits at the expense of public problems NOT being addressed?

But hey we want more on this island because it will provide more revenue? Really?

They are all inter-related!

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