Testimony on Downtown Columbia Height Limits

After considering the views of those who participated in the listserve discussion, the Board has again decided that HCCA will testify in support of Ms. Sigaty's zoning amendments.  Of  those listserve participants who expressed an opinion, 25 voted to support and 7 voted against the amendments; this is 72% pro and 28% con.

Note: HCCA's written policy provides under "Responsible Land Use," that "Development and redevelopment must be part of specific master plans such as those for . . . Columbia Downtown."  The amendments would bring the Plaza Tower under the Downtown Master Plan, consistent with that policy.

It may be reassuring to remember that prior to approval of the master plan DPZ intends to have community meetings and public hearings and to solicit the views of relevant village boards as well as those of the Focus Group.  Everyone who supports or opposes specific height limitations, if any, will have the opportunity to express their opinion.  The 150-foot height limit proposed in the amendments would be temporary only.

Thanks to everyone for an excellent dialogue; this is HCCA at its best.
 

Bridget Mugane,
President HCCA