Land Development Today - July/August 2007 - (Page 15)

quate public facilities ordinances, growth policies, etc. – are generally on every developer’s radar screen for the simple reason that if one is already in place, the project manager is used to working with it and knows its schedule for updates. Or, if it is a new concept, it may also have a certain “buzz” surrounding it that is hard to miss. However, knowing that the issue is on the horizon is only half the battle. Too often, developers focus on the overarching question, “What is the growth policy being proposed?” rather than what it really means. Understanding the impact of the proposal, not just on an individual project, but also the “big picture” view of developing in that area, is critical to managing the process. This may include lobbying for or against the measure, proposing changes or starting a project earlier than anticipated to avoid being caught in the new standards. Again, in Montgomery County, the county council is considering an impact tax to fund infrastructure development. In one proposal, it suggests charging more than $24 per square foot for retail space. In this case, the knee-jerk reaction is to say that the amount is too high. However, a better argument would include why the developer should not be shouldered with the burden of paying for new infrastructure, i.e., because the most needed transportation improvements are generated by the existing development, not new development and the government bears some responsibility to fund such public works. The best presentation of this argument is by a uniform, cohesive, and respectful group of interested parties. Large-scale policy issues that often go unnoticed until after the fact involve comprehensive changes to the master plan and/or zoning ordinance and administrative procedures. Although these are lengthy public processes, sometimes lasting years, with attempts to engage the community, often property owners or interested developers let opportunities pass by without participating and having their voice heard. Master plans can dramatically alter the redevelopment potential of a particular site or even an entire area. Advocacy by the property owner or interested party can often lead to enhanced opportunities. Conversely, inattention can mean missed opportunities as densities can shift to other sites. Project-Related Decisions Specific project-related decisions, either a rezoning action or a project-specific zoning text amendment (though such legislation is specifically prohibited in more jurisdictions) are generally not valued other than for computing comparable sales prices. However, these individual actions can have a profound impact by raising public consciousness on particular issues. The Gaithersburg affordable housing regulations were promulgated directly as a result of a very large planned unit development Circle 112 • or www.LandDevelopmentToday.com/adinfo www.LandDevelopmentToday.com 15 http://www.fivestarstone.net http://www.fivestarstone.net http://www.LandDevelopmentToday.com/adinfo http://www.LandDevelopmentToday.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Land Development Today - July/August 2007

Cover Contents Our Voice: Industry Advocates Your Voice: Reader Response Cover Story: Preparing Your Tax Strategy The Rules of the Game Historical Redevelopment Project Profile: Seattle’s High Point Retention: From Ravine to Road Land Use: Picatinny Arsenal Mixed Use: Florida Offices Industry News Products/Services Showcase Classifieds Recommended Reading Advertiser Index Editorial Board The Last Word: What? Me Plan… Urban Development

Land Development Today - July/August 2007

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