Quote:
Originally Posted by El Duderino
I believe that is called a "bribe".
In all seriousness, those things you described are built into the zoning code - this particular project is already claiming height allowances for affordable units and for a green roof, yet they are still looking for additional height beyond that. I think it sets a pretty dangerous precedent if we allow developers to just clearly pay out to ANY group (even if it's a "good" cause) in return for the ability to do what they want beyond what is permitted.
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Granted any official 'exchange' could be ripe for problems, but presently the unofficial exchange happens (bribes, personal favors, etc.) and the City doesn't directly benefit and every now and then people go to jail. It just seems to me that more and more projects aren't being built 'by right', and as long as the City is handing out candy I'd like the City to get something back, directly.
This project wants, amount other things as you say, permission to cover the site 100% where code say less, like 85% or 90%. Personally I could care less, but if the City approves that 100% coverage unless there's some cost involved for the developer the next project down the street is going to rightfully want the same deal, which really is a great deal; the City is giving away something for nothing.
Isn't this the situation that is presently playing itself out with 200 Race St.? I believe The Bridge development right across the street from what's being proposed at 200 Race, received beyond any bonus for green roofs and LEED building practices, permission to build more units and taller then allowed. Now how can the City reasonably say no to a similar request for a building 60' away?
PMC built that complex down near the Delaware River and received a bonus for including a certain number of limited income apartments, then turned around and found a method where they could legally buy their way out of that requirement. So, in other words the bonus they received had a monetary value, why not just make that policy both more expensive and transparent and cover more items?