Quote:
Originally Posted by Syndic
I don't consider what we do NIMBYism. A neighborhood group is not a legislative body. They have no legal authority. So, we need to learn to completely ignore their cries when the situation calls for it.
|
The problem with a neighborhood group is that they DO have de facto authority given to them by the the city during the Neighborhood Planning process and as a voice for "the people" during development hearings. A few NIMBY members in high position in a Neighborhood Association have tremendous power.
Unfortunately folk like myself (I live in Allendale) are not vocal and involved to any great degree with our local association...and thus allow the NIMBY voice to have a much louder and deciding voice. This needs to change if all of central Austin is to grow-up in a fair and equitable long term fashion.
I agree that the entire Lady Bird Lake area...from dam to dam is the front yard of Austin and every Austinite needs to be involved and have a voice. The Seaholm lease to private offices is to last 20 years. Hopefully by then the region will have matured to the point that several important cultural/attractions will want the building for true great public benefit. Austin apparently is not there yet.