[ATXPhil]

This is yet another loss for dense high-rise development efforts in this city (delayed CodeNext drafts was a blow that probably kept at least a few taller towers from getting approved during this cycle due to the current FAR restrictions). I'm beyond fed up with our meddling city council. They are such idiots.

If the Scion hotel proposed at 32-33 stories gets blocked (and any other towers that have been proposed or could have been built in these proposed CVCs) that is a loss. If the site plan was already approved then I hope the city gets sued. City council never stops talking about affordability but then ties up proposals that would give much needed supply to keep rents & home prices closer to equilibrium in permitting review for over a year in most cases (NO other major city in Texas does this). Oh, that's right, now as a developer you can pay a large fee to have permitting review expidited. On top of having to contribute to various politically-interests (like Parks & Rec or Aff Housing) if you're not developing Apartments, in which case now you have to include at least 10% of units at less than market rate or you won't even get approved. It is basically bribery and extortion....just to accomplish what is set out in the city's master plan anyway. Ridiculous!!!