Florida news...

(I don't believe that communities are exceptional. Every place works about the same, as the systems and processes are similar. While there is no question that every place is unique, few places are exceptional[ly different].) Here is some interesting stuff from the Florida Times-Union.)

1. "Reform of skybox use by city a work in progress" compare to "Hard-to-Get Concert Tickets Go to Donors, Mayor's Staffers," from WTOP radio.

2. There has been a constitutional amendment submitted to the state of Florida, putting restrictions "on the process for deciding on development initiatives," because the process is "too dominated by developer interests and money." The initiative calls for "voter approval of any changes to comprehensive plans adopted by cities and counties."

I probably don't favor it, because the "tyranny of neighborhood parochialism" and mob rule is no better than elected and appointed officials being card carrying members of the Growth Machine. Plus, see my earlier entry on Poplar Point in Anacostia for a greater elucidation of my sense about these things. Who's to say that the average citizen, or the average co-opted citizens group is any better? (Speaking of being used and co-optation, refer back to the successful anti-returnable bottle/can effort back in 1988 in DC, where African-American churches and other groups came in on the side of the anti-environmentalists.)

Having citizens who don't necessarily take the time to learn about the principles of revitalization, urban design, and "transportation demand management," among other things--of course, we can't say that most elected officials know much about these topics either--making the final decision isn't any better.

But there is no question that something needs to be done to strengthen the process, making sure there are direct community benefits and structured and assisted processes for ensuring that quality results.

See:

-- "Scare tactics being used on land-use amendment"
-- Letters from readers
-- "Unchecked growth affects all of us"

and the competing websites Florida Home Town Democracy and Save Our Constitution.