Quote:
Originally Posted by eldondre
all of them. they have too much power in Philadelphia and work more like mobs staffed by the squeakiest wheels. I have problems with the assumptions that a bunch of unelected people who think they know what's best for the community can determine teh viability of a business idea. In the future, these associations need to have much less power. That isn't to say they should have none, but they shouldn't always be able to get their hands in the pot.
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Just to be clear, the FNA and its zoning committee do not determine whether or not the community will support proposed development projects. They advertise and facilitate developer presentations. All eligible residents (i.e., for small projects those within 500 ft, for large commercial projects, anyone within the boudaries of Fishtown) can attend and vote. Membership in the FNA is not required.
It is true that the zoning committee prefers to schedule community meetings after it makes sure the developer is prepared to present (e.g., plans in order, practical concerns such as deliveries/trash/traffic addressed)...why waste peoples' time? However, the FNA's input to the ZBA ultimately reflects the vote of those who attend the meeting.
As a former member of the FNA's zoning committee, I just wanted to clarify the process in our neighborhood. Thanks!