08-02-04 - Laserfiche WebLink

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The Bigger Picture - what can be done . Really plan, and stick to it. Be sure that all new developments fully disclose the use of land around them. The recent Pulte development is a good example. Simply allowing big contractors to buy large plots and fill them in is not the way to go. . Is more high-density housing desirable for Hastings? It seems to be being developed in several areas right now. I don't think it is just market forces at work here. There needs to be a balance to provide' step-up opportunities in housing. . Keep apartment buildings in buffer areas. Keep them adjacent to appropriate roads and in scale with their surroundings. -' . Don't allow higher density housing to go into established areas. Ifhomes have been present in the immediate area for (e.g.) 5+ years, the residents have a right to expect consistency in their neighborhood. There needs to be a policy which protects the existing residents. Allow new neighborhoods go grow up around the high-density and commercial, rather than the other way around. Lead with it, don't follow with it. An Appeal to the Developer I've said a lot of disparaging things about this project, but it's not personal, the project is just a very bad idea. I don't think you want to be known as the company which forces itself down everyone's throat for the sake of a buck. It is much better to have the reputation of a company concerned with quality and value. There are good alternatives in low-density housing. The existing lot could be platted into 20-24 single family home plots; the adjacent lot a dozen more. There is a great opportunity to complete a desirable, upscale neighborhood with houses the owners would be proud to have, and neighbors the neighborhood would be glad to welcome. I don't know the price of the lot involved, but I would think that a profit of 1 Ok per lot and a profit of 25k per house is probably in line. Over 24 houses that's 850k profit, that and the valuable intangible of doing the right thing. - -