Early in my administration, I solicited the assistance of the FSU Department of Urban and Regional Planning to conduct a citizen driven strategic Visioning Process for the City of Apalachicola. My goal for Visioning was to create an approach that would have encouraged smart growth and economic development on the Riverfront, in the area that was traditionally the African-American community’s business district, and in Historic Downtown Apalachicola, growth that would have not changed the character of the community, but would have enhanced the quality of life for all residents of the city.At my invitation, members from the FSU Planning Department made two presentations before the Apalachicola City Council outlining a proposal that would have moved this process forward. The City Commission has yet to move on the proposal or come up with an alternative plan. Furthermore, had the Board approved the FSU proposal, we would have had a mechanism in place by now to direct smart compatible growth throughout the community.
Without a definitive plan for growth, developers are and will continue to request that city officials grant special exceptions to the building codes.
We want and need growth and the benefits that growth offers, but first and foremost we need a sensible Growth Management Plan to direct that growth.
Mr. Mayor,
ReplyDeleteI appauld your efforts and know that you will continue to try to move us forward with a real plan.
For too many years, a select few have used thier influence to reap a great many dollars, leaving the city with nothing of value. If we are to continue to evolve as a tourist and seafood destination we must have a place for the vistors to stay and play. Every historic district I have ever been in has used thier great old homes for B&B's, museums. They have provisions in place encouraging the rehab and owner occupied houses to showcase a time gone by and giving the owner a reason to spend those thousands of dollars.
Growth ( special exceptions) should be managed not given as gifts to friends.
I wish you continued success, you can count on my support now and in the future.
Rob Peterson
Mayor Johnson,
ReplyDeleteAs the Secretary of the FCSWA we would like to thank you for your help and let you know that we support you in your continued vision of a better City, thus creating and enhancing a better County and Communities as a whole.
We look forward to further endeavors together, thank you for your support.
Linda Raffield
FCSWA Secretary