The point when public testimony was closed and discussion by the Zoning and Planning Committee members ended was followed by a very awkward and pregnant pause as they (committee members) waited for each other to make a motion to approve Baylor's application to rezone the Riverview site to allow for housing. One no (Niland), two yeses (Ostrow, Campbell) and two abstentions (Mead, McDonald). The Citizen Advisory Committee to assist with the implementation of the Plan is meaningless and north and northeast continued to get screwed. Sweet Status Quo! If I lacked the courage of my convictions like our council members do, my blessed Dad would roll over in his grave. We had them dead to rights on this piece of property and they folded. The first major development out of the block for the Upper River Master Plan, the stakeholder process inches away from being installed and we're already "up the river without a plan." How damn disappointing. Yes, like Annie, I too am angry.
To Annie's other rant about not getting to speak, there were many who opposed JADT's development for the Riverview site who also did not get to speak because Lisa McDonald kept public testimony to 20 minutes. I wish Lisa had allowed the few remaining the opportunity to testify as I would have appreciated hearing what Annie, Bruce Shoemaker, Mary Jamin Maguire, Tim Sullivan, David Hartwell, Tim Becken and others had to say. I also know that some of the sheets got shuffled although I do not believe that this was intentional. Lisa asked for a show of hands of those opposing the plan - nearly the entire room. I more than share Annie's frustration for this is a tremendous lost opportunity. The large turnout in strong support of preserving the site as open space and park was well represented by residents, industry/business, environmental groups and recreational interests. How often can we expect that level of consensus between such diverse groups on like developments? So many sound arguments were made for preserving this space as park. And the bottom line? As several pointed out, Z&P was within their right to deny JADT's request. But the underlying fear on Biernat's part appeared to be the perceived threat of a lawsuit brought on by Mr. Baylor. It was no mistake that at the close of Baylor's testimony, he offered that his attorney was on hand to answer any questions the committee might have. Yes, Annie is right, it was very ugly and the scuttlebutt in the hallway afterward did not paint an attractive picture of city process.
Sadly, this development will have set the precedent of how seriously the city intended to respect the idea and vision of having a "Plan" AND the importance of an inclusive, meaningful stakeholder participation process. Thanks to the overwhelming number of you who called, emailed and/or attended this meeting. Your support and participation was greatly appreciated.
A hope for our incoming council members and mayor - don't forget why you ran for office or who you serve. Understand the important of working together, not just within your ward but across the boundaries where the impact affects a broader constituency. Build alliances outside of the city council and in the communities you serve. And above all, listen. Especially to those who so seldom are heard.
Candy Sartell
Lind Bohanon
